Police in Australia have launched a manhunt for former soap opera star Orpheus Pledger after he failed to appear in court to face charges of assault.

Pledger, 30, was due to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday accused of assaulting a woman, Sky News Australia said. The actor had been granted bail on Tuesday for a court-ordered hospital assessment and had been ordered to return to court the following day, but didn't show up.

On Wednesday Victoria Police issued a warrant for his arrest and asked the public to help find him. The force said in a statement he was wanted over an "assault-related matter" and hoped "someone may be able to provide information on his current whereabouts".

Described as "approximately 170cm [5ft, 6in] tall with brown hair and tanned complexion.