Victoria Police has sought to question Robert Doyle over allegations he sexually assaulted two women during his time as Melbourne lord mayor and leader of the Victorian Liberal Party.

The development in the year-long investigation suggests criminal charges may be laid against one of the city’s best known political figures. Sources familiar with the investigation said Mr Doyle declined to be interviewed by police, citing ill health.

The investigation by sex crime squad detectives was triggered by the Town Hall harassment scandal which last year prompted Mr Doyle’s withdrawal from public life.

Lord mayor of Melbourne Robert Doyle. Credit:Justin McManus

The case is centred on sworn statements provided to police by Kharla Williams, a commercial real estate agent who alleges she was repeatedly groped by Mr Doyle at a 2016 black-tie dinner, and a 49-year-old woman who alleges Mr Doyle accosted her when he was Victoria’s opposition leader.