Vic judges won't face random breath tests

Victorian judges were set to be randomly breath tested, but now the state government says the measure is unnecessary and unreasonable.

The Andrew government has backed away from a promise made on the eve of the 2014 election that would have have given the chief justice, chief judge and the chief magistrate the power to test the judiciary.

It is unclear whether a promise, made at the same time, to test MPs will go ahead, with the government saying the decision rests on Speaker Telmo Languiller and President of the Legislative Council Bruce Atkinson.

The Judicial Commission of Victoria Bill 2015 tabled in Parliament in December failed to spell out powers that allowed random breath testing, instead allowing "broad measures" to run the courts.

Attorney-General Martin Pakula says the bill granted broad powers that would include breath testing under the banner of medical examinations, but conceded it didn't explicitly say so.

He told 3AW on Wednesday that random breath tests, which Victorian police are subject to, were "unnecessary and unreasonable" for judges.

The opposition was quick to jump on the policy change, labelling the election promise as a media stunt.

"With this latest policy U-turn, following so many bizarre wrong-turns and whacky frolics, it's clear that what the Andrews government now needs more than anything else is a designated driver who can steer a steady and responsible course for Victoria," shadow attorney-general John Pesutto said in a statement.