Government ends year with tensions between Hockey and Abbott

Parliament may have risen for the year, but the Coalition could still be in for a stormy summer.

Amid the tense atmosphere, Treasurer Joe Hockey is seen by some as a "lightning rod" for anger over the budget and the government's attempts to sell its economic message.

Today it was reported the Coalition's budget sales pitch was weakened by the Prime Minister's office

Claims emerged Tony Abbott’s office delayed releasing the commission of audit's report, fearing political backlash against the proposed radical savings measures.

The move left Mr Hockey with no time to explain the need for deep cuts.

The Treasurer’s colleagues are refusing to acknowledge the signs of disunity and are publically singing his praises.

Mr Hockey is expected to hand down his budget update in the next two weeks.