Stage one of the refurbishment has been made possible through a $75,000 Victorian Heritage Grant, which was announced on site last Friday by Member for Ripon, Joe Helper.

Mr Helper said the government was delighted to support preservation of the former Stawell Shire Hall with the grant.

He said the funding would enable the removal of the existing concrete and steel mezzanine floor, which has been the cause of severe cracking in the building.

``The former Shire Hall building is an important and enduring part of Stawell's history, having originally been constructed in 1866,'' Mr Helper said.

``In the early 1960's the building was subdivided and a concrete and steel mezzanine floor was added above the Council Chamber.

``However, the mezzanine floor is extremely heavy and according to expert opinion has caused the severe cracking in the building.

``This funding will enable the removal of this flooring and the reinstatement of the Council Chamber.''

Mr Helper said following the removal of the floor, the building will be allowed to settle before being further upgraded.

``At the completion of the project, the Council Chamber will be used as the formal meeting space for Northern Grampians Shire as well as being available for local business and community use.

``The efforts of Northern Grampians Shire and the Stawell community have made this outcome possible and I join with them in looking forward to the progress of works,'' Mr Helper said.

Mr Helper was taken on a tour of the building during his visit on Friday. Northern Grampians Mayor, Cr Kevin Erwin, chief executive officer Glen Davis and General Manager Customer Services, Jim Nolan, explained how the space had previously been utilised and how the renovations would be of great benefit to all occupants.

Cr Erwin said he was delighted that the State Government had provided funding for the renovation works.

Mr Helper said the Stawell project was among more than 71 community projects to share in $2 million in grants to preserve and protect Victoria's heritage.

``The Brumby Government's heritage grants are about supporting local communities in their efforts to care for, manage and interpret our diverse heritage,'' he said.

``I'm pleased to be part of a government that values our shared heritage and provides the necessary assistance to preserve these historic reminders of a bygone era.''

Mr Helper thanked Northern Grampians Shire Council for their efforts so far on the project.