Napthine has 'robust' fuel talks with PM

Victorian Premier Denis Napthine has had a "robust" talk with Prime Minister Tony Abbott about the increase in the fuel excise.

Dr Napthine says he has made it clear he's disappointed with the federal government's decision.

"That was a robust conversation," Dr Napthine told reporters on Wednesday.

"I made the point that decisions that increase the cost of living for Victorian families, increase the costs for Victorian businesses, are issues of importance for Victorians.

"It is my view that those matters are more appropriately dealt with through proper parliamentary processes."

Dr Napthine would not comment on Mr Abbott's response in the Wednesday morning talk.

Dr Napthine did not believe the issue would impact on the coalition's chances of re-election in the November 29 state poll.

"I think the people of Victoria know the difference between federal issues and state issues," he said.

Police and Emergency Services Minister Kim Wells, a former Victorian treasurer, said Dr Napthine was talking to Mr Abbott "to outline our amazement that this announcement has been made."

"The timing of this announcement and the actual facts behind the actual cost to Victorians is most unfortunate and the premier will be making that very strongly known to the prime minister," he said.

The excise will increase with inflation twice-yearly from November after the government decided to bypass the Senate.

The federal government says it will cost households about 40 cents a week initially.

The state Labor opposition says regional Victorians will have to pay up to $3 more for a tank of petrol to fund the East West Link.

Opposition regional and rural development spokeswoman Jacinta Allen said the federal government claimed an increase in the fuel excise was needed to help fund the major infrastructure project.

Ms Allan said regional motorists would bear the brunt of the excise hike, because they used more petrol and relied more on roads.

"Every time you fill up, just remember you're paying for Denis Napthine's dud tunnel," she said in a statement.