Police are investigating after a couple were stabbed outside their home in Melbourne’s west during an attempted armed robbery.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said the man and woman were returning to their Maidstone home at about 1.15am on Thursday when they were confronted by a second man brandishing a knife.

They said the man, 57, received multiple stab wounds and was transported to The Royal Melbourne Hospital with serious injuries.

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The 65-year-old woman was taken to The Royal Melbourne Hospital with a minor injury.

The couple owned a restaurant in the nearby suburb of St Albans, and arrived home from work when the attack happened, the ABC reported.

Family members of the pair said the woman was first attacked by the man, who tried to steal her purse.

They said an altercation sparked and then the woman’s husband sustained multiple stab wounds.

Their son spoke at the scene after the incident and said he had no idea why anyone would attack his parents.

“I’m horrified. I’m not happy about it. I’ve been living here 15 years, so I’m not happy about it,” he told ABC.

Anyone with any information is urged to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.