Treasurer Scott Morrison is promising tax relief for Australians and more money for aged care and infrastructure in tonight’s federal budget. There is concern the budget may not contain enough saving measures to reduce our debt.

Claire Boughey reports.

TRANSCRIPT

In an attempt to win voter support, the treasurer and his finance minister are making their final pitch before their pre-election budget.

Scott Morrison, Treasurer: “Keeping taxes under control, keeping spending under control.”

But not everyone is sold.

Former Treasurer Peter Costello is concerned at the lack of focus on reducing our growing debt.

Peter Costello, Former Treasurer: “It took us 10 surplus budgets to pay it off last time.”

Accusing the government of simply passing on the problem.

Peter Costello, Former Treasurer: “All you’re doing is you’re putting a burden on future generations.”

The proposed measures include tax relief for low and middle income Australians.

Those who earn less than $90,000 a year are set to receive an extra $500 annually.

Or $10 a week.

Scott Morrison, Treasurer: “It’s a plan for lower taxes and for reducing the pressure on households.”

Not everyone’s convinced.

Tanya Plibersek, Deputy Labor Leader: “It looks like tonight’s tax cut won’t be a hamburger and a milkshake you’ll have to take your pick.”

There’ll be multi-billion dollar improvements to aged care to help older Australians live longer at home.

Chris Bowen, Shadow Treasurer: “We’ll welcome improvements, but this is a government in desperate catch up when it comes to aged care.”

And $24 billion for road and rail projects, creating more jobs and helping ease congestion.

Scott Morrison, Treasurer: “Improving the opportunities for all Australians to live in a stronger economy.”

While the main themes of the budget have the support of both major parties.

The hidden saving measures put in place to off set this extra spending are yet to be revealed.

Despite this, the government has predicted the budget will be back to surplus by next year, one year earlier than promised.

Claire Boughey, QUT News.