The union movement's grand Victorian home is set for much needed renovations,with the state Labor government kicking in $10 million to help fix the deteriorating Trades Hall.

The Opposition has labelled the funding, which comes from a heritage fund, as an "outrageous" waste of taxpayers' money on Labor's "union mates".

The 19th century "People's Palace" on Lygon Street is on the national heritage register and was first built in 1859.

It houses unions as well as community events and even comedy shows.

Trades Hall secretary Luke Hilakari has been lobbying for funding to help restore the building.

A detailed report from Architects and Heritage Consultants Lovell Chen put the price of restoration at $28 million, with leaky roofs and cracked walls a major problem.

Mr Hilakari said the money would help meet the first stage of works needed to make the building safe, and restore the Old Council Chambers, New Council Chambers and provide disability access.

Liberal MP Tim Smith said the cash once again showed Premier Daniel Andrews was interested in keeping unions happy.

"$10 million of taxpayers money to improve the value of the union movement's head office is not only an outrageous waste of money, but shows the obsession Daniel Andrews has with placating his union mates," Mr Smith said.

Planning Minister Richard Wynne has allocated the project $10 million from a $22.2 million fund to help restore Victoria's heritage places.

Her Majesty's Theatre in Ballarat has also been granted money for conservation.

Mr Wynne said Trades Hall had been identified as requiring urgent conservation work in an audit which examined 150 heritage places that had previously been identified as being "at risk".

"Trades Hall is a significant heritage asset with complex and costly conservation needs." Mr Wynne said.

"Without works, its viability would be under threat.

"Maintaining Trades Hall means we are securing a venue for the arts and for community groups, as well as protecting part of Melbourne's history."