Economists question Victorian Liberal plan to deliver surplus while cutting taxes

Key points

• Two economists have warned that Victoria's budget would worsen under a Coalition government, because planned spending cuts are not large enough to offset tax cuts. RMIT professor David Hayward estimates a $9 billion shortfall in the state's finances.
• Opposition Leader Jess Wilson has promised a cash surplus by 2032, partly funded by a 10-year freeze on public service hiring.
• Independent economist Saul Eslake said the Coalition must explain how it will reduce debt, and called for spending cuts and revenue increases.