Mahmoud Salhab, from southwest Sydney, did not appear at Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday after he was charged with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
His lawyer Javid Faiz requested his client be transferred to a mental health facility, under section 25 of the Cognitive Impairment Act 2020.
"He's mentally not in a stable position," Mr Faiz told the court, adding that Surry Hills Police Station where he is currently detained "had some concerns for their protection".
Magistrate John Bailey denied the request on the basis there was "insufficient information" to make the order.
Instead, he requested a psychiatric report be made available for the next court date.
Outside court, Mr Faiz told reporters his client had experienced mental health issues "for quite some time now".
"He's undergone treatment in the past," Mr Faiz added.
Mr Salhab is accused of repeatedly stabbing a 54-year-old Service NSW employee at his workplace in Haymarket in Sydney's CBD at about 9.20am on Friday.
The man suffered lower back, chest and shoulder wounds during the attack and remained in intensive care late on Friday after undergoing surgery at St Vincent's Hospital.
Mr Salhab did not make an application for bail and bail was formally refused.
The matter was adjourned to be heard at the Downing Centre Local Court on June 23.
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