An Australian man has been charged with attempted murder in Italy after allegedly trying to kill his cousin and aunt during an argument over a family will.

Lino Bertacco, 64, from Melbourne, is being held in custody after a court in Italy's north heard claims about how he attacked his relatives while trying to blow up their home.

Bertacco is alleged to have flown to Marostica on 8 October with all the money he possessed, about 7000 euro ($13,000).