Prime Minister Tony Abbott - who has a much-discussed fondness for three-word slogans - used the phrase 18 times on Wednesday before lunchtime. There were five mentions in his morning press conference, five on ABC radio and eight mentions across two other interviews.

Credit:Andrew Meares

"I think Australians naturally want to have a go. I think we understand in the marrow of our bones that the only way we can deliver a fair go for everyone is if the creative people in our country are prepared to have a go and that is what this budget is designed to do: encourage people to have a go," Mr Abbott said during one interview.

Treasurer Joe Hockey has had "have a go" on high rotation too.

He used it six times in his budget lock-up press conference and four times in his budget night interview with 7.30's Leigh Sales.