The mother of the man accused of brutally bashing an Ellenbrook resident in a random, unprovoked attack says her son “needs to be in an institution”.

Aiden Bradley Cronin is accused of assaulting retired prison officer Mike Willison as he brought his neighbour’s bins in, biting off the 68-year-old’s ear, leaving him bloodied and seriously injured.

Cronin, who appeared in court for the first time today charged with aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm and obstruct public officer, did not enter a plea.

Outside court, the 29-year-old’s mother said Cronin had “complex issues” stemming from being stabbed in the head years ago and admitted her son had substance abuse issues.

Camera Icon Retired prison officer Mike Willison was brutally bashed as he brought his neighbour’s bins in. Credit: 7NEWS

“He was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress syndrome and it has been untreated,” Hayley Nelson said.

“We’ve tried to support him as a family to go and get help – him and his partner – but we just couldn’t get it.

“He did go to rehab last year for a short time.

“Aidan’s got limited education and he just needs a lot of support.”

Police allege Mr Cronin was in a common area of a set of units on Redstone Trail about 10.30am on Thursday when he assaulted Mr Willison.

The 29-year-old was arrested at a home a few streets away from the attack and taken to hospital where he had to be sedated due to his volatile and aggressive behaviour.

Today he had his bail application rejected.

“It’s very important that when they do have complex issues, you get them help,” Ms Nelson said.

“Me and my family, we’re very desperate to get him that help – you know, we love him, we care for him. We just want the best for him.

“I think they should get him a psych evaluation done – and sort out the PTSD and the drug issues because it is complex.”