Italian Police are investigating after private security guards surrounding Cardinal George Pell allegedly assaulted journalists this morning.

The incident happened while Cardinal Pell was arriving at the Rome in which he is due to give evidence via videolink to the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse.

It’s believed a cameraman was shoved and a journalist was punched.

The Royal Commission has been notified.

Channel 10 reporter Joe Hill in Rome told Ross and John the atmosphere was ‘tense’, fuelled by the presence several security companies and a worldwide media contingent.

‘This is a story that will be heard around the world,’ he said.

‘You’d almost say the Australian press pack is outnumbered by the internationals.

‘In terms of George Pell’s first appearance at this hearing, it is the worst possible look.’

Click play to hear more from Channel 10 reporter Joe Hill in Rome