Relations between the state and federal governments are marred by a "chaotic and punitive approach"on the part of the Commonwealth that has undermined funding certainty, according to Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas.

Mr Pallas will call for a "reset" from the federal government, which he says goes "out of its way to be unpredictable and unreliable".

Treasurer Tim Pallas says the federal government goes out of its way to be unpredictable. Credit:Penny Stephens

In a provocative speech to be delivered on Monday, Mr Pallas will argue for a new way forward, including the possibility of legislation to ensure the Commonwealth honours commitments made to the states.

At the least, he says, there should be an independent dispute resolution process to "avoid lengthy stand-offs when agreements aren't honoured".