Thomson maintains he's innocent

Former union secretary and federal MP Craig Thomson maintains he's innocent, despite being handed a jail term for dishonesty offences.

Thomson was sentenced on Tuesday to 12 months' jail - nine of which were suspended for two years - for spending union funds on prostitutes and personal expenses.

But he was later granted bail after his lawyers lodged an appeal against his conviction and sentence.

"Obviously today wasn't what we were looking for," Thomson said as he left the Melbourne Magistrates Court.

"I've always maintained I'm not guilty in relation to the charges that I've been convicted of, which is why I've appealed."

The former Health Services Union national secretary was heckled as he addressed the media.

"Despite some misreporting, there has never been admissions of facts in relation to this," Thomson said.

"I look forward to going ahead in terms of this appeal."

Thomson said it was inappropriate for anybody to comment further while the matter was before the courts.

He thanked his wife - and his former wife, who he said had been very supportive.

"I'm going to spend some time with my wife and my lawyers - in that order," Thomson said.