The 53-year-old man was in his campervan parked on Hunter Street when he answered a knock on the door about 3.45pm.

Two men identified themselves as police officers, showed the man what appeared to be police badges, and asked to enter the van.

When the 53-year-old man asked for further identification, he was allegedly forced into the van by the men who produced a knife, put gaffer tape over his eyes, and bound his legs and hands before demanding money.

The victim then stood up and charged at one of the men, and the alleged bandits fled the scene empty-handed after a relative of the victim approached the van. The man suffered cuts to his arms, hands and head in the attack, and was treated by paramedics at the scene.

Inspector Ron Davis, of Lake Illawarra police, said police were investigating and attempting to get a description of the attackers from the victim.

‘‘A description hasn’t been forthcoming yet, but we are chasing it up,’’ Inspector Davis said.

‘‘We conducted a canvass of the area today [Thursday], and are looking to get a more detailed description.’’

He said the alleged robbers were not wearing police uniforms, but had merely claimed to be officers.

Police have urged any witnesses or anyone with information  to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.