Can the Government return the budget to surplus by 2014-15?

Digital image / P.K. Stowers

The Government took in $1.57 billion less tax than expected in the first nine months of the fiscal year, reflecting a tepid economy, Treasury figures show - reflecting what the Finance Minister says has been a 'difficult year'.

The Crown took in $39.8 billion in tax in the nine months ended March 31, against a forecast in the Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update estimate of $41.3 billion, according to the government's financial statements.

Core Crown spending was $1.75 billion below forecast at $50.99 billion, which the Treasury said reflected revenue variances and spending delays.

The operating balance before gains and losses (OBEGAL) was a deficit of $6.13 billion, or $800 million more than forecast.

Can the Government return the budget to surplus by 2014-15? Here is the latest selection of Your Views: