MACKAY Police have arrested a 38-year-old Marian man after responding to an alleged incident of assault in Victoria St on Friday night about 11pm.

It is alleged the taxi driver collected the man in Victoria St and obtained details for a destination. Shortly after beginning to drive, the male passenger is alleged to have become abusive towards the driver, resulting in the vehicle stopping and the passenger being asked to hop out.

Once the passenger got out of the vehicle, it's further alleged the passenger has punched the driver in the face several times.

Police from Mackay were contacted and spoke with the taxi driver at the Mackay Base Hospital where he was receiving treatment.

After investigations were finalised, police attended the address the accused had given to the taxi driver and located the 38-year-old man.

After speaking with police he was arrested and he has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm.

He is due to appear at the Mackay Magistrates Court on November 17 to have the matter heard.