Deficit levy in for 10 years: Shorten

Shadow treasurer Chris Bowen says the deficit levy is permanent, but Bill Shorten insists it will remain in place for a decade.

Bill Shorten has contradicted his shadow treasurer on the budget repair levy, insisting it's limited (AAP)

Bill Shorten has contradicted his shadow treasurer on the budget repair levy.

Chris Bowen said on budget night, and repeated during the election campaign, that the levy on the highest income earners would be a "permanent" change to the top marginal tax rate.

"It's 10 years," Mr Shorten told reporters in Brisbane on Wednesday.