Jeff Kennett criticises early poll talk

The Turnbull government is simply trying to cover its own failings by leaning towards a double-dissolution election, former Victorian Liberal Premier Jeff Kennett says.

Mr Kennett believes Malcolm Turnbull has burnt the goodwill he had after taking over the top job and going to the polls in July is simply about self-interest.

"They're trying I think to use this talk of a double-dissolution, an early election, simply to cover up their own failings," he told radio 2UE on Wednesday.