The Federal Opposition has lampooned the Australian Government for saying the Budget deficit will be temporary, even though it is predicted to stay in the red for another six years.
The federal budget is expected to be at least $A60 billion in deficit and not return to surplus until the 2015 - 2016 financial year.
The ABC reports the predictions mean the Government will have to re-shape its spending plans across the Budget.
Shadow Assistant Treasurer Tony Smith says the Government should stop calling it a temporary deficit. He says six years is "not temporary."
Mr Smith says the details in next week's budget will show the deficit is not just the result of lost revenue.
Treasurer Wayne Swan will deliver the 2009/10 budget next Tuesday.
He says he is committed to getting the books back in the black.
