Politics is a spectator sport for journalists and current affairs tragics but the only loser is the governing party.

The politics of instability is slowly destroying the Abbott government. It has been the curse of Parliament for almost eight years. Politics is a deadly game. The politics of even perceived repression spectacularly destroyed Campbell Newman's government.

In Tasmania the Hodgman government sought virtual anonymity in its first year and believed harsh budget cuts would stay largely an in-house imbroglio.

However, if you mix the inevitable news story accompanying job cuts with consequent family disruption, and mix this with broken promises, then the genie will escape.

The government is blessed with a favourable trend of economic indicators that will be reflected in better tax receipts, but the explosive nature of contemporary politics interstate would spook any administration.

Campbell Newman's experience shows that in the new era of politics, you can perch your fortress on a mountain but the floodwaters of discontent can still reach there.

Hence a softer, more humble theme has seeped into the Hodgman government's second year. More inclusive, more understanding, more empathy, more soul.

The late-May budget will no doubt be softer than last year's mix of sackings and closures because savings have already been made, but expect a more uplifting theme; more emphasis on development and capital spending and less on glorified housekeeping tough-talk.

This is not to suggest the government is running scared. Clearly not. But you can refine a task so that the pain associated with a remedy is minimal. You can better sell and explain what is needed for the public good.