Budget all about strong economy: treasurer

Treasurer Scott Morrison has used his final public appearance before presenting his third budget to argue the Turnbull government knows how to deliver a stronger economy.

"The plan for a stronger economy that I'll be announcing tonight is about improving the opportunities for all Australians to live in a stronger economy," he told reporters on his way into Parliament House on Tuesday.

"It's a plan for lower taxes and for reducing the pressure on households."

Mr Morrison refused to be drawn into comments by Peter Costello after the former Liberal treasurer said he would be dead before government debt was paid off.

"I encourage my friend and mentor to tune in tonight," the treasurer said.