Updated February 02, 2018 16:18:18

Photo: Robert Doyle has stood down as mayor while the investigation is being conducted. (AAP: Julian Smith)

A sexual harassment investigation into Melbourne's Lord Mayor Robert Doyle will be delayed as he grapples with serious health issues, the council has said.

The City of Melbourne ordered the investigation, which is being led by Dr Ian Freckelton QC, after the Lord Mayor was accused indecent assault, misconduct and sexual harassment by two councillor colleagues.

Cr Doyle has vigorously denied the allegations.

Council chief executive Ben Rimmer said it was likely the investigation would produce an interim and a final report.

"We support the Lord Mayor's focus on his health and we are very hopeful that he makes a full and speedy recovery," Mr Rimmer said.

"We are very much aware it is in the interests of everyone involved that the investigative and reporting processes are thorough and completed as quickly as possible.

"From the start, we have stated that it's not appropriate to set timelines. This process will take as long as it needs to, consistent with the overarching principles of natural justice and procedural fairness for complainants and the Lord Mayor."

Cr Doyle, who is also the chairman of the Melbourne Health board, is the subject of another investigation by Victoria's health department after a third woman accused him of harassment at a hospital event.

He has since taken leave from the role, and denies the allegations.

Melbourne councillors will, on Tuesday, meet as a committee for the first time this year to discuss the status of the investigation into the Lord Mayor.

They will also discuss a recommendation from the city's management to review its councillor codes of conduct.

Cr Doyle has been contacted for comment.

Topics: local-government, government-and-politics, community-and-society, melbourne-3000, vic

First posted February 02, 2018 15:28:24