Victoria could ask for billions in federal funding for two new infrastructure projects thanks to a rail-friendly prime minister.
The state is building the $11 billion Melbourne Metro Rail tunnel and is looking at a Transurban Group plan for a $5.5 billion Western Distributor toll road in Melbourne's west.
"I'm confident we can have a conversation with the federal government about both projects," Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan told reporters on Monday.
Victoria was given $3 billion for the dumped East West Link toll road but former prime minister Tony Abbott allowed $1.5 billion of that to be tentatively allocated to the Western Distributor.
Now Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull says he is open to funding rail, so Victoria has a chance with two projects that need federal cash.
Ms Allan said Victoria would have a "mature" conversation with the federal government about funding both rail and roads.
"We know here in Melbourne that we need to invest in major public transport projects like the Melbourne Metro rail project... (and) we know that there is additional pressure on our road system," she said.
The Metro project is only partially funded while the Western Distributor proposal calls for more tolls on Victoria's freeways for up to 15 years to help pay for it.
Treasurer Scott Morrison said he would meet with Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas in Melbourne later this week to discuss funding for infrastructure projects.
"I'm looking forward to working constructively with all the (state) treasurers," Mr Morrison told 3AW.
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