SYDNEY - An Australian man has been charged with torture following an investigation into the alleged abuse of a newborn baby.

The police service in the state of Queensland said on Monday that detectives from the child protection and investigation unit (CPIU) commenced inquiries on March 5 after a seven-week-old boy was brought to hospital in an unresponsive condition.

Medical examinations at the time allegedly found that the boy had sustained extensive injuries consistent with prolonged and repeated physical abuse, prompting authorities to remove him from the care of a 27-year-old man and 26-year-old woman.

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Following a protracted investigation, the Queensland Police Service said on Monday that the 27-year-old man from southern Brisbane has been charged with one count of torture and three counts of assault occasioning bodily harm.

Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Joshua Brewer said in a statement that the case was "deeply confronting" and that detectives had worked with care and determination to remove the child from harm.

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"This investigation highlights the importance of community diligence -- if members of the public are aware of or suspect child abuse, they are encouraged to report it to police," he said.

If convicted of torture, the man faces a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.