Federal Environment and Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg announced on Sunday the listing gives the tourism hotspot the same status as the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Sydney's Bondi Beach and the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

"The market itself dates back to 1878, long before Uber Eats and refrigeration had ever been heard of and it really gives us an insight into the food distribution systems back in Melbourne at that time when the population was only 120,000 people," he told the Nine network.

The markets are also the site of Melbourne's first cemetery, dating to 1837, with about 6500 burial sites remaining. It's also believed to be the largest early colonial cemetery in Australia.

A section of 1878 cemetery wall is the only remaining above-ground evidence of the site's first use, but Mr Frydenberg said the burials have national significance.

The historic value and importance related to the insight provided into what settlers and indigenous people who were buried there ate, what diseases they suffered, and what lifestyle and internment customs they adopted, he said in a statement.

"This listing also celebrates the vibrant living culture and character of the Queen Victoria Market," he said.

In March, Heritage Victoria knocked back a part of a $250 million redevelopment plan involving the restoration of the site's 140-year-old sheds as well as an underground car park.

The Queen Victoria Market has traded continuously since 1878 and attracts nearly 10 million visitors each year.

It's the 114th place to be added to the nation's list of important heritage sites.

Australian Associated Press