A Victorian magistrate has been stood down after being charged with sexual assault.

Police have confirmed a 55-year-old man from Brighton in Melbourne's south is facing serious criminal offences after an alleged historical sexual assault investigation.

The man was charged on Wednesday and has been bailed to face court on Friday.

In a statement, Victoria's Chief Magistrate, Peter Lauristen, says the magistrate in question has been taken off both judicial and administrative duties.

The statement says it would be improper for Mr Lauristen to make any further comment while the proceeding is before the courts.

Victoria's Attorney-General, Robert Clark, has been notified.

Mr Clark's spokesman says given the nature of the charges, the magistrate has been immediately suspended from all duties.