Wolf Creek actor John Jarratt denies accusations of sexual assault

The star of one of Australia's most harrowing horror films has strenuously denied historical allegations of sexual assault.

Wolf Creek's John Jarratt is being accused of sexually assaulting a woman on Sydney's eastern beaches in the 1970s.

When asked about the matter by Seven News Online a NSW Police spokeswoman confirmed police were investigating a historical sexual assault in the area from that time period, but did not confirm the identity of the accused.

"NSW Police is investigating an allegation of historical sexual assault on Sydney's eastern beaches," a police spokeswoman said.

News Corp reported that the woman made a statement to Shoalhaven police about a week ago.

"The allegation was reported to police earlier this month and relates to a matter from the 1970s."

A statement from Mr Jarratt's management said: "John emphatically and completely denies the allegations of sexual assault".

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"The allegations are completely unfounded and untrue."

A police investigation is continuing.