'I was trying to get my hand into his back pocket to get some of his money': Premier Napthine talks about that awkward hug with PM

Prime Minister Tony Abbott is welcome in Victoria "anytime he brings his chequebook" Premier Denis Napthine has declared, opening up about his awkward encounter with Australia’s leader last week.

In an interview with Neil Mitchell on Fairfax Radio, Dr Napthine addressed comments he had looked uncomfortable when Mr Abbott pulled him in for a hug at a recent press conference.

"I was trying to get my hand into his back pocket to get some of his money for projects in Victoria," he said.

He said Mr Abbott was welcome in Victoria "anytime he brings a chequebook and some money to help fund infrastructure in the state".

Dr Napthine was also forced to defend the number of transport advertisements paid for with taxpayer funds, with a new state government report revealing Victorians have been exposed to an average of 42 'Moving Victoria' advertisements every day in the past few weeks.

"These ads are about informing the public about what we're doing to make sure we grow jobs and opportunities, make sure we decongest Melbourne, make sure we deliver a better Melbourne and Victoria for all Victorians," he said.

Later today Dr Napthine announced a $310 million commitment to upgrade Thompsons Road in Cranbourne North, which will include the removal of a level crossing and upgrades to the Western Port Highway interchange.

But Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews said the premier was "very desperate" and he is "out there following again".

Mr Andrews today said he wants to make Victoria "the education state" if Labor wins the next election, announcing $87 million for the construction of 11 new schools.

"We need to firstly stop the Liberal cut backs to our education system and then get on and build the best education system possible in the education state," he said.

Mr Andrews said he would also change the slogan on number plates from "Stay Alert, Stay Alive" to "Victoria - The Education State".

What do you think of the new slogan idea? Have your say in the comments section below.

Stay Alert, Stay Alive was introduced two years ago, with previous slogans labelling Victoria as "The Place To Be", "On The Move" and "The Garden State".

Mr Andrews said he would never cut funding to TAFE, adding "in fact I'll repair it".