Two Irish men have been charged following an alleged assault in Australia.

Christopher McLaughlin, 24 and Nathan Kelly, 21, both with addresses in Donegal, were arrested near the scene of the incident in Sydney.

They were taken to Burwood Police Station where they were charged with "reckless grievous bodily harm in company and affray".

Police said a 66-year-old man was found on the side of the road at the intersection of Grosvenor Crescent and Liverpool Road in Summer Hill, just after midnight local time on Saturday.

He was treated at the scene before being taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital where he is said to be in a critical condition.

Mr McLaughlin from Malin and and Mr Kelly from Glengad appeared before Parramatta Bail Court yesterday.

They were both refused bail and are due to appear before Burwood Local Court on 9 January.

Police said neither Mr McLaughlin or Mr Kelly were known to the injured man.