Hockey promises no further cuts in pre-Christmas budget review

Joe Hockey has repeatedly reassured Australians he is not about to use next month's budget update to introduce more cuts.

Like last year, the treasurer is purposely holding back the release of his mid-year economic and fiscal outlook until after the September quarter national accounts, due December 3, to get the most up-to-date growth reading.

That means the mid-year budget review is issued at the height of the Christmas shopping period.

Even so, the budget has faced an unexpected loss of revenue through a 30 per cent drop in iron ore prices since the May budget, as well as sluggish wages growth.

Also, several of the government's measures remain stuck in the Senate.

Mr Hockey has indicated any further cuts will be delayed until next year's budget.