A Dutch backpacker was sexually assaulted by a man who claimed the woman was being followed down a St Kilda street and convinced her to get into his car.
The offender then drove the 27-year-old woman to a lane where he sexually assaulted her following a night out at a pub in St Kilda.
Police said the backpacker was walking home from the pub along Carlisle Street between 2.30am and 3.30am on July 15 when a small red vehicle pulled over near the intersection with St Kilda Road.
The driver told the woman she was being followed and urged her to get into his car.
The woman got into the vehicle and believed she was being driven home when the car, believed to be a hatchback, pulled into a lane where the driver sexually assaulted her.
A Victoria Police spokeswoman said the woman convinced her attacker to drive her home after the attack.
The offender had blond, spiky hair, a medium build and was wearing a grey jacket with jeans or pants. He is also believed to have acne scars on his cheeks.
Detectives have released an image of a man they would like to question about the assault.
Anyone with information has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au.