Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance) Share this | Hansard source

The situation that we have inherited from the previous government is very challenging indeed. In the 11 weeks from the budget in May to the Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Outlook in August, the budget position deteriorated by $33 billion—$3 billion a week. We know that this reckless and irresponsible Labor opposition is now opposing $20 billion in savings measures, and that brings me to another quote from Senator Wong: She said:

… it is irresponsible and dishonest to call for a surplus, but block responsible savings measures that would deliver it.

Will you support our saves, or has Labor walked away from its commitment to a surplus? You are opposing $5 billion worth of savings that you banked in your budget, and, now, you are too weak; you do not have the mettle to make them happen.