ADELAIDE is the only Australian city to be selected for a new National Geographic Channel series showcasing the world's most liveable cities.

The series, Smart Cities, will profile 18 destinations over three seasons after the network identified suitable locales based on viewer preferences and internal selection criteria.

Program consultant, Ian MacFarlane, said Adelaide was selected because of its education vision and universities, multiculturalism and the connectivity of our city in a global environment.

"Adelaide, the only Australian city included, has demonstrably evidenced its commitment to its citizens and visitors by embracing the 21st century key success factors," Mr MacFarlane told The Advertiser.

He said the factors were:

TALENT development via its tertiary education sector structures and vision.

COMMITMENT to, and societal embrace of, multiculturalism.

INNOVATIVE approach to technology through connectivity and integration of Adelaide into the global environment, most visually noticeable with the international airport and the city's expanding air access.

"The lifestyle of Adelaide also is a major feature in attracting attention and interest," Mr MacFarlane said.

Filming for the series began secretly in March to capture footage of Adelaide's festival period.

The second phase of filming is under way this month.

Adelaide, as well as two other southern hemisphere cities which are yet to be announced, is the first city to be filmed for Smart Cities before production moves to cities in the northern hemisphere.

"The focus of the documentary is on people and their individual stories within the context of Adelaide," Mr MacFarlane said.

"Final inclusions of people and places will be made by the executive producers based on creative and audience appeal."

The Smart Cities series is slated to air in the first quarter of next year, beaming South Australia into at least 12 countries worldwide and commanding a strong online presence.

The State Government, Adelaide City Council, the University of South Australia and Flinders University are participating in the project.

Premier Jay Weatherill said an official launch event for the series would take place next year. Filming will continue until September.