Abbott wants to unlock 'latent energy'

The prime minister is out spruiking his budget in Tasmania, saying he wants it to unlock 'latent energy' in the economy.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott wants his "have a go" budget to unlock hidden energy in the Australian economy.

Spruiking the budget in Tasmania on Friday, Mr Abbott wants Australians to take advantage of the small business instant asset write-off and proposed childcare measures.

"There is a whole lot of latent energy in our country right now. We want to unlock that potential," he told reporters.