PM praises Hockey ahead of second budget

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has personally praised Treasurer Joe Hockey in front of his colleagues ahead of the release of his second budget.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has personally praised Treasurer Joe Hockey ahead of the budget release. (AAP)

This year's federal budget includes proposals the government can go out and fight for, Tony Abbott has told his colleagues.

Just hours before the treasurer hands down his second budget, the prime minister personally praised Joe Hockey for doing an "absolutely outstanding job" in its lead-up.

"This budget is not about our political fortunes, but what is best for the people of Australia," Mr Abbott told a joint party room meeting in Canberra.