Treasurer Jim Chalmers celebrated an economic victory, but household budgets across the country are still struggling to survive the cost-of-living crisis.
But senior economics lecturer at the University of Canberra, Dr John Hawkins, said part of the budget savings were beyond the government's control.
Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (at the background) Source: AAP / AAP Image
Lower than expected demand for elderly care, the NDIS, COVID-19 vaccination payments, onshore detention and several other grant programs.
The government estimates it will save about $80 billion in interest payments by reducing government debt.
