Peter Dutton responds to Daniel Andrews' 'cheap shot' over public stoush on extra help

Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton has shrugged off a dig by Victoria's premier over the offer of additional federal help.

Mr Dutton had suggested it was time for Daniel Andrews to "swallow his pride" and accept more assistance from Canberra.

But the premier said in reply, "If I need something I don't hesitate to ask and I'll tell you who I ask. I ask the Prime Minister. I don't waste my time asking the bloke who he beat in a party room ballot".

Mr Dutton responded to Mr Andrew's comments on Today this morning saying "everybody around the country wants the best for Victoria".

"The numbers speak for themselves," Mr Dutton said.

"The point I made yesterday is we want to provide whatever assistance we can to Victoria, and I hope that they accept it."

He pointed to the way Queensland and NSW have handed the hotel quarantine system, comparing it with Victoria's security bungle believed to be responsible for the surge in cases.

Yesterday the state recorded 403 positive tests while there were just 19 in NSW. Five more deaths were recorded, bringing the state's total to 49.

"All of that speaks for itself," Mr Dutton said.

He denied Mr Andrews' comments were a "cheap shot".

"Look, he is a guy under pressure," Mr Dutton said. "I accept that [and] I just want to make sure that we can help him and help his government and ultimately the people of Victoria.

"I think that's all that's at play here, and I really genuinely want us to do whatever we can, and I don't see why Victoria wouldn't accept that offer of assistance."

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