In March this year the Australian man allegedly shook his infant daughter violently, causing fatal brain damage, according to Japanese news outlets Tokyo Reporter and TV Asahi.

The man has been charged with manslaughter. He reportedly denies the allegations.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed it was providing consular assistance to an Australian man detained in Japan on Tuesday, in accordance with the Consular Services Charter.

Due to privacy considerations DFAT was unable to comment further.