A woman from Woodridge, south of Brisbane, had her car stolen for a brief time on Friday, while her child was in the car seat.
Queensland police said woman left her car running while she checked the mailbox at around 4.50pm (AEST) on Friday, leaving her daughter, aged 15 months, inside.
A man ran to the car, got into the driver's seat and drove off .
However, AAP reports the woman gave chase and stood in the way of the car and the vehicle hit her at low speed.
The car travelled a further 50 metres before the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.
The woman had minor injuries and the child was not injured.
A police dog squad searched the area but were unable to find the man.
