•We modeled the anisotropic properties of seepage-stress in rock mass.•We investigated the stress-seepage coupling effect on the anisotropy of rock mass.•The stress, damage and seepage properties are obviously influenced by joint angle. Anisotropic properties of the fractured rock masses are investigated considering the coupled effect of the seepage and stress. The equivalent permeability and damage tensor of the fractured rock mass are initially examined using a series of Discrete-Fracture-Network (DFN) models with varied size and orientations from the geological investigation data of the sandstone roadway on the floor of 12# coal seam in Fangezhuang Coal Mine. A seepage–stress cross-coupling anisotropic model considering the coupled effect of the seepage and stress is described and applied to analyze the influence of the principal orientations of the joint sets on the anisotropic properties of the rock mass. It appears that the anisotropic properties of the rock mass have a great influence on the stress distribution, hydraulic conductivity coefficient and damage zone. The model may contribute to a more reasonable explanation on the dominant effect of the joint sets on deformation and failure of rock mass.