The Government's operating deficit looked slightly better than expected in April.
The deficit, which strips out unrealised investment gains or losses, stood at $5.2 billion in the 10 months to the end of April - 11% less than was forecast in last month's Budget.
The Treasury attributes the result to Government spending coming in 0.8% below forecast, and tax revenue remaining on target, at $74 million.
However, the cash deficit, which dictates the Government's borrowing needs, was $275 million more than forecast.
Net government debt stood at $27.8 billion, which is 15% of gross domestic product, slightly more than the 14.7% forecast last month.
