Finance Minister Mathias Cormann has rejected former treasurer Peter Costello's claim that the coalition lacks an economic narrative, saying it talks about the economy "day in, day out".
Mr Costello told an event last week the government was operating in a "parallel universe" by promising tax reforms in 10 years time, a sentiment with which Senator Cormann disagrees.
He says politicians are often criticised for taking a short-term view, but the government is looking further.
"We seek to make decisions that put Australia on the stronger trajectory for the future," he told ABC TV on Sunday.
"We seek to make decisions that have a beneficial effect over the medium and long-term."
The minister said the coalition discussed the economy "all the time".
"I talk about the economy, the prime minister, the treasurer, all of my colleagues. We talk about the economy, day in, day out," he said.
"Our economic mission is to deliver more jobs so that more Australians have the best possible opportunity to get ahead, and improve their living standards for themselves and their families."
