Andrews defends welfare cuts

Reducing the budget deficit off the backs of people living in poverty is absurd, a leading charity says.

The comment comes after a report by the Australian Council of Social Service found almost one in seven Australians are living below the poverty line.

ACOSS fears that federal budget measures will make it worse.

St Vincents de Paul chief executive John Falzon says it's impossible to build a strong economy by increasing inequality.

"You certainly don't help young people into a job by forcing them to live on fresh air and sunshine for six months, which is one of the budget's crazier proposals," Dr Falzon told ABC radio.

Social Services Minister Kevin Andrews has defended the government's budget strategy.

It was about ensuring there was an adequate safety net in the context of a thriving economy, he said.

"If the economy is doing well, then more Australians are doing well and that of course reduces poverty," he told ABC radio on Monday.

* Anti-poverty week runs from October 12 to 18.