Prime Minister Scott Morrison is likely to wait another week before firing the starter's gun on the election campaign, giving MPs more time to gauge community reaction to the federal budget and sharpen their political strategy.

While Mr Morrison could still move to call the election this Sunday, sources say next weekend has firmed as the preferred timing, opening up May 18 as the probable polling day, with May 25 a wildcard option that has been actively considered.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison is leaning towards a later election. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The Prime Minister has been fielding a range of opinions about the timing, with some Coalition figures favouring an earlier date while others have advised that later is better.

Speculation was initially rife that the campaign would kick off this weekend, with a five-week race to a May 11 election.