A man who attempted a carjacking in St Kilda has been held down by the victim and members of the public until Police arrived.

Police were called to the intersection of Chapel St and Alma Rd following reports of an assault and scuffle, about 8.55pm on Wednesday, January, 10.

Officers have been told the 51-year-old victim was stopped at the lights, when he was approached by a man who opened his door and demanded he get out.

The victim refused and was allegedly assaulted before he grabbed onto the man to try and get his car keys back.

During the commotion a witness raised the alarm and told the victim he was calling Triple Zero (000).

The St Kilda East man held onto the alleged offender and restrained him, with help from other people nearby, until Police arrived.

The 37-year-old Mordialloc man was arrested by Police and was charged with attempted carjacking, common law assault, state false name and commit indictable offence whilst on bail.

He has been held over to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.