Four men wanted over 1982 teen sex attack

Image of two men
Police have released images of two men allegedly involved in a sex attack in Melbourne in 1982. -AAP

When a 19-year-old woman went to a Melbourne apartment with an acquaintance in September 1982, she thought they were going to watch the footy.

It was grand final day and Sharni (not her real name) was heading along with Chris, a friend of her neighbour.

Instead, when they arrived at the Fitzroy high-rise flat, Chris disappeared and she was left alone with four older males all speaking another language.

One of the men tried to sexually assault her and when she protested, two of the men carried her to an open window and dangled her out, threatening to drop her if she did not comply.

She was brought back into the living room and was sexually assaulted by each of the men.

The victim told police she attempted to maintain eye contact with each of her attackers for as long as possible and get a prolonged look at each of their faces.

When she was finally left alone, she ran through the front door and down the stairs.

On Wednesday, nearly 40 years after the attack, police released digital composite images of men they wish to identify and interview based on Sharni's detailed description of two of the four men.

The first is described as being southern European in appearance with a stocky build. He was wearing jeans and a green Exacto brand t-shirt at the time.

The second male is described as Caucasian in appearance with a thin build and green eyes. He was wearing striped pyjama shorts at the time.

The pair were believed to be in their 20s at the time and would now be aged in their 60s.

Detectives are keen to speak to anyone who recognises either of the men.

They are also appealing for the man known as Chris to come forward and his friend, Sharni's neighbour, who lived at 216 Rathdowne Street in Carlton, which is now a commercial building.

"We are determined to pursue every avenue of inquiry so we can provide her with the closure she deserves," Sexual Crimes Squad Detective Acting Inspector Tracy Johnston, said in a statement.

"Historical sexual offending matters are incredibly complex, but we know someone in the community could still hold the information that might just provide police the key to delivering justice."