The arrest of a man who had 500 stolen tools has prompted a police appeal to tradespeople in Melbourne's eastern suburbs.

Victoria Police officers arrested a 44-year-old Wantirna South man on Monday after discovering the stolen goods.

The man has been charged with handling stolen goods and possessing the proceeds of crime.

Police are now trying to return the tools to the rightful owners.

They are holding three viewing sessions at the Forest Hill police station to try and identify the owners and anyone wanting to claim the tools will need proof of ownership.

"Police are appealing for anyone who may have had power tools stolen in the area, particularly if they were stolen from a motor vehicle, to come to one of three viewing sessions in an attempt to locate their item," Victoria Police said in a statement.