Bigger budget surplus not 'an end in itself'

Jim Chalmers says the improved budget bottom line isn't good luck, it's about less spending. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)

A larger-than-expected budget surplus hasn't come at the expense of household budgets, the treasurer insists, while touting government cost-of-living relief measures.

The federal government recorded a $15.8 billion surplus for the 2023/24 financial year, a $6.4 billion improvement on the forecast in the May budget, data released on Monday showed.