“This year’s budget demonstrates no plan to build a stronger economy, repay debt or create secure jobs,” Senator Heffernan said.

“It’s a confused budget. All it delivers is more borrowing, more taxes, record debt – and the world’s biggest carbon tax.

“The carbon tax will act as a wrecking ball across the local economy and we will all be paying for it through increased prices, higher energy bills and pressure on local businesses.”

Senator Heffernan said he was also concerned about the government’s announcement that it will seek to increase Australia’s debt ceiling to a record $300billion – four times higher than it was in 2008.

“This is another increase in our nation’s credit card limit,” he said.

“We will see net government debt climb to a record in 2013/14.

“That is an increase of almost $40billion since last year’s budget.

“And by 2015/16, the government will be spending over $8billion a year, or around $22million a day, on interest payments alone.

“We are now paying the price for Labor’s four record deficits, which together total $174billion.”

Senator Heffernan said he was concerned that the budget papers forecast a rise in unemployment to 5.5 per cent.

“Last year’s budget promised 500,000 new jobs over two years, but the government now expects to miss its target by 300,000 jobs.

“Meanwhile the government is cutting $200million out of jobs services programs.”

Senator Heffernan said Eden-Monaro residents want a government that can deliver an economic strategy to build a stronger Australia, reduce cost of living pressures and create secure jobs.

“Instead they have a government mired in chaos and a Prime Minister with no judgment,” he said.