Police are investigating following the attempted armed robbery of a licensed premises in Oxley overnight.

Initial investigations suggest at around 9:45pm a man armed with what is believed to a rifle entered the hotel on the corner of Oxley Road and Ipswich Service Road.

The man demanded money from staff before discharging his weapon into the ceiling and fleeing the scene empty handed.

No one was injured during the incident.

Police conducted patrols of the area but were unable to locate the man.

He is described as between 20 and 30 years of age, is of a slim build and was last seen wearing dark clothing with a white cloth over his face.

Police believe he may be travelling in a dark coloured utility or riding a motorcycle.

Investigations are continuing.