Young Victorian Nathan Holman has surged to the top of the Australian Masters leaderboard after a sizzling 65 in his second round.

A birdie at his final hole at Royal Melbourne meant Holman picked up six shots in his last six holes to move to nine under.

Playing in only his fifth tournament since turning professional this year, the 22-year-old was one shot clear of overnight leader South Australian Nick Cullen and local hope Matthew Griffin.

With defending champion Adam Scott just starting his second round, the Australian trio took advantage of some ideal conditions.

Holman included an eagle amongst his impressive round of six-under par 65 which was matched by Griffin.

Cullen signed for a round of 69, improving his overnight score by two shots.

Cullen is the twin brother of cricketer Dan, an off-spin bowler who has represented Australia at Test and one-day level.

Scott was four under after his opening round, tied for second with young German Max Kieffer.

Scott picked up a birdie in the first hole of his second round to loom large while Kieffer is even.

Jarrod Lyle, who is making his return to competition after battling cancer for the second time, is currently one over with two holes to play and looks likely to make the cut.