Government wants more people in work

Social Services Minister Scott Morrison has flagged welfare changes for young men, seniors and single parents.

In a sign of what could be in store in the May budget, Mr Morrison told parliament on Thursday the government was increasing its focus on getting more people on welfare into work.

The government would be working harder on policy to ensure men aged under 25 got and stayed in jobs, he said.

It will also focus on helping parents with young children, including single parents, return to work.

Older Australians would be encouraged to stay in the workforce, and there was a particular opportunity for women over the age of 65, Mr Morrison said.

"At the end of the day, we have got to seize these opportunities that are there in our people," he said.