The girl entered the female public toilets at the Snowstop village on Sharp Street about 5.40pm where it is alleged a man unknown to the girl forced his way into the cubicle and sexually assaulted her.

The girl screamed causing the man to flee the scene.

Cooma police attended the area on Monday night and began investigating the incident.

They are looking for a man described as being of white/European appearance, about 175cm-180cm tall, 20-30 years old and wearing dark clothes and white running shoes.

He has been described as being unshaven, with a thin build and short brown hair.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Queanbeyan Joint Investigation Response Squad via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police have issued a timely reminder for parents and carers to teach their children about personal safety.

These messages include making sure your parents or another adult you know, knows where you are at all times and always walk straight home or to the place you are walking to.

Know where safe places are - a shop, service station, police station, library or school. If you are ever frightened, you should go to one of these places and ask them to call the police.

Don’t talk to people you don’t know and never get into a car with someone you don’t know.

If you need assistance and can use a phone, call 000.