Chalmers told 9News Chief Political Editor Charles Croucher the “responsible” budget would be firmly focused on easing the costs faced by the nation’s most vulnerable.
“Our job as a government is to take the edge off these cost of living pressures…This budget (will prioritise) the people doing it toughest,” he said.
Energy relief is also on the way for more than five million households, and one million businesses, under a $1.5 billion package.
“There will be a one-off payment that will go or a subsidy in some way that will go out to a lot of Australians,” Chalmers said.
The treasurer hinted the budget would show a lower-than-expected unemployment rate which could lead to a shock surplus.
The Australian government’s gross debt is currently hovering around $900 billion and is tipped to hit the $1 trillion mark by 2025-26.
“This is about making sure offshore projects pay more tax sooner so we can fund cost-of-living packages,” Chalmers said.
“It strikes the best balance between getting a fairer return for Australians sooner but also being consistent of investment and supply and our international relationships.
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“The unemployment forecast is a little bit better in the budget and the wages forecast is stronger as well. People are working and earning more. That is a good thing more broadly.”
Federal budget to fight cost-of-living
The rate of Jobseeker is set to be boosted for recipients over the age of 55, while the government has also signposted that there will a substantial package aimed at tackling rising energy bills.
More than 30 defence projects will also be scaled back, or scrapped to help fund a $19 billion increase in defence spending.
Overall, cost of living will be the big budget issue.
Cost of living is being driven by inflation and the treasurer will have to provide relief without adding to the problem by putting too much money in people’s pockets.
“Overwhelmingly, when you have a budget with a bit of pressure on it over the median term, you try to do what you can to begin with the most vulnerable people,” Chalmers said.
“It provides enough opportunity for people to get through the difficult period as we try to set up our economy and our country for the future.”
The budget will be handed down on Tuesday.
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