The 45-year-old woman was driving north along Coonemia Road when she saw five males standing on the side of the road at about 8am.

Police said one of them threw an object at her car causing her to stop to speak to them.

She said one of them threatened her with a knife and demanded she get out of the car.

She refused and drove off before calling police.

Shoalhaven police searched the area and found five males in nearby bushland. 

Police spoke to the men and took their details pending further investigations.

Shoalhaven Police Inspector John Behrendt said it was the first time he’d encountered an attempted carjacking during his eight years in the region.

‘‘You get several in Sydney but it’s unusual for them to happen in a country area,’’ Insp Behrendt said.

He said the incident served as a reminder for all motorists to be careful.

‘‘Always take precautions – if you’re driving near a group of people and the hair on the back of your neck stands up it might be an idea to lock your doors,’’ he said. 

‘‘Don’t stop unless you’re sure you feel the reasons you’re being asked to pull over are legitimate.’’

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers.