But while the building's asbestos is removed, airconditioning is installed, and its bathroom is upgraded, taxpayers are sinking handsome sums into Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove's historic residences as well.

In the past year, His Excellency's government forked out $2.6 million for urgently needed repairs, major works and technological upgrades at Government House in Canberra, as well as $2.3 million for Admiralty House in Sydney.

It brings the total renovation bill to $19 million over the past 10 years.

The bigger items on the Government House bill include $1.3 million to fix the so-called 'honours building', more than $854,000 for 'essential heritage rectification' and almost $225,000 to repair the stables (which have long housed workers instead of horses).

There has been more than $2 million in heritage rectification at Admiralty House, which commands sweeping views of Sydney Harbour.

The Governor-General won't have any issues streaming high-definition House of Cards episodes or Question Time broadcasts after almost $70,000 was also splashed on Wi-Fi upgrades for both buildings.

"Wi-Fi was introduced across both properties to enhance operational efficiencies for staff and visitors," a spokesperson for Government House told Fairfax Media.

The Abbott government will have to consider whether to plough even more money into refurbishments later this year.

The properties – comprising 20 buildings across 54 hectares – are more than personal residences for their vice-regal occupants and families. About 25,000 guests and visitors came through both properties last year.

"All works are considered urgent and essential to maintain the proper function of the properties as vice-regal residences and to maintain the heritage values of the buildings for the future benefit of all Australians, in line with statutory obligations and other responsibilities placed on the agency," the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson also said: "For a property estate valued at $86 million, this level of ongoing expenditure could be considered necessary if the properties are to remain in use."

Government House and Admiralty House operate as official government buildings, hosting events for the public, government and foreign dignitaries.

The renovations occurred in the final year of a 10-year Vice-Regal Heritage Property Master Plan, initiated by the Howard government in 2005.

Last year, it was revealed some work had been delayed or cancelled, including a $5-million swimming pool and tennis court upgrade.

Two dozen projects were put on hold in total and will, at some point, have to be reconsidered by the government.

Some $6.4 million is being spent on The Lodge renovations.