Two teenagers have been charged after a stabbing in Charlestown that left a man seriously injured on Wednesday night.

Police say officers were called to a shopping centre on Ridley Street about 8.40pm after reports that a 32-year-old man had been attacked with a knife.

The victim suffered serious arm injuries and was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being rushed to John Hunter Hospital.

After a search of the area, police arrested two 17-year-old boys nearby. They were taken to Belmont Police Station, where both were charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

One of the teens also faces an additional charge of possessing a prohibited drug.

Police confirmed that both boys were refused bail and are set to appear in a children’s court today (Thursday 21 August 2025).

The incident has sparked concern among locals about youth crime and knife violence in the Lake Macquarie region.