Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton says the public should help select judges and magistrates in state courts, leaving the door open to the direct election of judges.

Mr Dutton has been a vocal crusader against "pathetically weak" bail and sentencing decisions made by the courts, particularly in relation to gang violence in Victoria.

He has repeatedly criticised Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews for appointing "civil libertarians" to the state's benches who would by their nature impose "soft sentences".

Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton said the public should be able to help choose magistrates. Credit:Andrew Meares

On Thursday, Mr Dutton went further and argued state governments should publicise a list of potential appointments to the courts and seek the public's feedback first.