A woman has significant arm injuries after being attacked by a lion at a zoo in Queensland.

It’s understood the female handler was cleaning the enclosure at Darling Downs Zoo and had put her arm in when she was attacked about 8.30am on Sunday.

The woman in her 50s was airlifted to Princess Alexandra Hospital with “significant arm injuries”, Queensland Ambulance Service told 7NEWS.com.au.

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It’s understood the woman’s arm may have been completely ripped off by the animal.

Police at the zoo. Credit: 7NEWS

The zoo has been closed.

“Due to unforeseen circumstances, the zoo will be closed all day today,” it said.

Workplace Health Safety Queensland (WHSQ) is aware of the incident.

“WHSQ Inspectors are onsite and making inquiries,” it told 7NEWS.com.au.

“No further comment can be made at this time.”