EXCLUSIVE COMMENTARY
IN recent weeks we have been reminded again about the volatility and uncertainty in the global economy.
While these developments are outside of our control, we can take comfort from the fact that our economy is positively transitioning from the mining boom to a more diversified economy. 
More than 300,000 jobs were created last year.
Business and consumer confidence levels have been rising. Our economy is growing at 2.5 per cent, twice what is occurring in similar economies like Canada, and is expected to continue to improve in the year ahead.
In what are uncertain economic times, we need to continue to do all we can to secure economic growth and keep spending under control.
As a government we are getting our spending under control.
Over the next four years, government spending as a share of the economy will fall, as a result of more than $80 billion in budget repair measures.
In recent months we have been looking at how our tax system can better build growth and jobs as we continue our transition to the new economy. This means reducing the income tax burden on Australians, not increasing spending and raising taxes to pay for it.
While the government has modelled a GST tax mix switch option that reduces that burden, modelling shows the complexities and realities of implementation risk neutering the economic growth outcome.
But the modelling shows the benefits that will flow to growth and jobs as a result of Australians being unshackled, particularly, from the negative effects of bracket creep.
That's why the government continues to be focused on delivering relief for Australians who go to work for a living and pay tax.
Australians are out there every day working and running businesses and it is my role to do what I can to back their efforts. This means reducing the negative impact of increased taxes.You can't part the Red Sea on every issue but Australians should be assured that it is my focus - and the government's focus - to lower tax, lower spending and in doing so fuel economic growth for our future prosperity.