The Abbott government will spend Wednesday trying to convince voters of the benefits to the nation’s budget of a $7 charge for GP visits, lower pension rises and hike income tax for people earning over $180,000.

The traditional post budget sales pitch will begin with morning television and talkback radio before Treasurer Joe Hockey heads to the national press club for a lunchtime grilling on his maiden budget.

Mr Hockey says his first budget is fair and will ensure all Australians contribute to the coalition’s budget repair job.

However, the government has been sharply criticised for delivering what many stakeholders believe is a budget that favours the boardroom but attacks the vulnerable.

Business gets a tax cut but unions say working families will be slugged, paying more for their petrol and going to the doctor.