Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will scrap the work test for voluntary super contributions for over 65s in the budget, underlining the importance of seniors for the Coalition as it prepares for a May 11 election.

The changes will offer flexibility for new retirees who want to put more money into their super nest eggs without meeting the current work test, which requires that they are at least working part-time.

Super investors will also win an extension of “bring-forward arrangements” that allow those aged under 65 years to make three years’ worth of non-concessional contributions in a single year, which is capped at $100,000 a year.

Mr Frydenberg confirmed the changes on the eve of his first budget.

But there’s no guarantee the changes will ever see the light of day, if the Morrison government loses the election, which is expected to be called as early as this weekend for May 11.

“From July 1, 2020, Australians aged 65 and 66 will be able to make voluntary superannuation contributions, both concessional and non-concessional, without meeting the work test,” Mr Frydenberg said.

“Currently, they can only make voluntary contributions if they meet the work test, which requires that they work a minimum of 40 hours over a 30-day period.

“This means that Australians aged 65 or 66 years who don’t meet the work test, because they may only work one day a week or volunteer, will now be able to make voluntary contributions to their superannuation.”

Mr Frydenberg said the changes would better align the work test with the eligibility age for the age pension, which is scheduled to reach 67 from July 1, 2023.

“In addition, we will increase the age limit for spouse contributions from 69 to 74 years. Currently, those aged 70 years and over cannot receive contributions made by another person on their behalf,” he said.

“We will also extend access to the bring-forward arrangements, which currently allow those aged less than 65 years to make three years’ worth of non-concessional contributions, which are capped at $100,000 a year, to their super in a single year.

“This will now be extended to those aged 65 and 66.”

The super changes were announced as the Parliamentary Budget Office confirmed that the cost of the ageing population is on track to eclipse Medicare by 2031.

“This net effect is greater than the projected cost in that same year for any one of Medicare, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Commonwealth funding for schools and hospitals, family tax benefit or the disability support pension – all of which are amongst the top 10 spending programs in the Commonwealth budget,” the Budget Office analysis states.