Tony Abbott’s claim that no one would get a better rate than defence workers appears to be disputed at Senate estimates hearing.

Some public servants are getting a bigger pay rise than defence personnel, despite Tony Abbott’s assurances to the contrary.

Abbott announced on Monday the government had bowed to public pressure to keep in place allowances that were to be cut under a new defence deal, which also included a 1.5% annual pay rise.

The prime minister told parliament: “No public sector worker will be paid at a higher rate of increase than our defence forces.”

But a recent Senate estimates hearing was told staff at sovereign wealth fund the Future Fund – who are employed under the Public Service Act – received a 3% annual raise, excluding performance bonuses.

Defence force families are circulating an online petition calling for a better deal. Abbott’s revamped offer will restore discretionary leave plus food and motor vehicle allowances at a cost of $17m.

The departmental staff of the employment minister, Eric Abetz, are set to be the first public servants to vote on a new pay deal on 10 December.

They have been offered 1.4% over three years, starting with a rise of 0.5% in the first year, but with cuts in some allowances and conditions.

Other federal government departments and agencies are also offering rises below 1.5% over three years as negotiations with unions continue.

Defence force pay deal dwarfed by offer to Future Fund staff