Fed govt taking note of Baird's success

Trade Minister Andrew Robb believes the federal government has a few lessons to learn from NSW Premier Mike Baird's approach to reform.

Mr Baird received widespread praise on Sunday after his coalition government won the state election, despite a strong Labor campaign against his plan to lease almost half of NSW's electricity assets.

In contrast, the federal government has struggled to get community support for its budget measures aimed at strengthening government coffers and cutting spending.

"We did come out with surprises and reforms that we haven't tilled the soil with ... and haven't informed the community, and that has cost us politically," Mr Robb told ABC radio on Monday.

Shadow treasurer Chris Bowen said Labor learned the "no surprises" lesson well before Saturday's NSW election.

"We will not make the mistake that Tony Abbott made of failing to win a mandate," he told ABC radio on Monday.

Labor intends to outline "robust and detailed" policies before the next federal election.

Mr Bowen said the coalition was in no position to lecture anyone about the timing of platform releases.