From www.themandarin.com.au: Budgets are now primarily confirmations of previously announced policies rather than vehicles for new funding announcements, reflecting a shift towards stability, responsibility, and political strategy.

Key reasons for this change include the indexation of taxes and benefits, the desire for governments to appear as competent economic managers, and the political benefits of gaining multiple publicity rounds from early announcements.

Consequently, the budget serves more as a comprehensive economic and social outlook rather than a source of surprises, focusing on long-term sustainability and equity.