Police said the man, who is known to the child, was arrested at a Cessnock home and charged with attempted murder. He was refused bail and will re-appear in Cessnock Local Court in April.

Just before Christmas, police received reports that a child had been rushed to a local hopsital suffering critical injuries. She was later transferred to John Hunter Hospital for ongoing treatment.

Officers attached to the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad began investigating how the child had suffered such injuries, and arrested the man around 9am on Wednesday.

Anyone with concerns about suspected child abuse or exploitation should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page.