We have a tax reform program, Abbott says

Prime Minister Tony Abbott is sticking to his own timetable for tax reform, while respectfully listening to the thoughts of former Treasury boss Ken Henry.

Dr Henry, who led a tax review under the Rudd government, has warned Australia is facing an "imminent crisis" in its taxation system unless there is comprehensive reform.

He is also adamant the GST rate will have to be increased at some point.

Mr Abbott, in describing Dr Henry as a distinguished former Treasury secretary, said he "deserved to be listened to with respect but they are just private views of a private citizen".

"We have a tax reform program," Mr Abbott told reporters in Adelaide.

He said reform began with the repeal of the carbon and mining taxes, and the reduction of the company tax.

Dr Henry also disagreed with a move to shift his replacement, Treasury secretary Martin Parkinson, out of the top job after the May federal budget, calling it a disappointing and historic decision.

Mr Abbott said Dr Parkinson was doing a fine job as the head of Treasury and that he looked forward to continuing to work with him for some time.

"But you have got to understand, incoming governments do very much want to place their stamp on the economic policy of the country, and that's exactly what we are doing." he said.