The female was airlifted to a Melbourne hospital on Saturday night after being hit by an arrow after an accidental discharge while a family was practising archery.

Colac Police Acting Sergeant Matt Nauta said the incident happened at around 6pm on private property in Warrion, near Colac.

"A female was injured in an accident at a compound by a bow and arrow," Acting Sergeant Nauta said.

"Family members were practicing archery throughout the afternoon when there was an accidental discharge.

"The male who released the bow is family-related to the woman and he had no intention to harm her.

"It's a very serious matter."

The male was released by Colac Police, pending further inquiries.

The 24-year-old was transported to Colac Hospital and then airlifted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

An Ambulance Victoria Media spokesman said the woman received facial injuries from the incident and was in a serious but stable condition.

The woman remains in a Melbourne hospital.

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