The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested and charged a 36-year-old male in relation to a serious domestic violence incident that occurred on Saturday in Alice Springs.

Around 6:15pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a disturbance at a residence in Alice Springs.

It is alleged an adult female and her child aged under 2-years-old had been assaulted by the 36-year-old male earlier in the day. The offender, who is known to the victim, allegedly assaulted her with a blunt weapon while she was holding the child. The victim’s hand was broken and the child suffered swelling to the head as a result of the incident.

The offender left the scene and attended a neighbouring residence, causing the reported disturbance.

Police attended and arrested the 36-year-old male. The victim and the child were conveyed to hospital for treatment, with the victim requiring surgery on her hand.

The offender was charged with Unlawfully cause serious harm and Aggravated assault and will appear in the Alice Springs Local Court today.

If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to family or domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline 131 114.