Jacob Dave Henry Hauraki, 32, faces multiple charges including six counts of rape after an attack that has shocked a community in Brisbane's west.
Hauraki was allegedly driving to work when he saw the 23-year-old woman walking in the semi-rural suburb of Brookfield about 6.30am on Thursday.
The woman had been out walking with a family member but had become separated as they travelled through the leafy suburb.
Hauraki is accused of approaching the woman from behind, dragging her into nearby bushes and assaulting her for "some time" before going to work.
"We will then allege that when he completed work for the day he drove back past the crime scene," Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham told reporters on Friday.
Hauraki's vehicle was identified by police at the scene and he was arrested in a nearby street.
"We're fairly familiar with offenders sometimes returning to the scene for different reasons," Det Supt Massingham said.
The woman made it through an adjoining creek and bushland towards the Brookfield Showgrounds, where she called for help, police say.
Det Supt Massingham acknowledged her bravery after she reported the incident.
"This is a horrific and confronting incident that no one should ever experience," he said.
The woman had suffered injuries but was being provided the "utmost care medically and psychologically".
"Our officers will continue to ensure that she has support in the days ahead," Det Supt Massingham said.
"Our thoughts are with her, family, and of course the Brookfield community at what is a very difficult time."
The incident shocked not only the local community but also the wider Brisbane region, police said.
An increased police presence will be in the area over the next few days, with a crime scene set to remain in place for some time.
Det Supt Massingham said police were not looking for anyone else over the alleged assault.
He thanked the media and community for helping to identify the alleged offender, saying two witnesses with dashcam footage came forward after reports on the incident.
"That was the final piece in the puzzle that we needed to solve this horrific crime," Det Supt Massingham said.
Hauraki was also charged with stalking, assault with intent to commit rape, assault occasioning bodily harm and deprivation of liberty.
He did not appear when his matter was briefly mentioned in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday.
It was adjourned until September 18, with no application for bail.
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National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028
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