The woman has been named by multiple news outlets as Yingying Xu, 46, after a media lawyer successfully argued in court against a suppression order on her name and that of the alleged victim, her daughter Sophie Wang.
Police had been called to an address at Emerald Lakes in Carrara just after 6pm on Tuesday, after 10-year-old Sophie was found unresponsive by her father.
Paramedics attempted to revive her but she was declared dead at the scene.
Xu was arrested at a nearby street about 10.25pm before being charged.Â
Authorities conducted an efficient investigation under extremely difficult circumstances that led to her arrest, Detective Acting Inspector Kent Ellis said.
"The scene was incredibly confronting and our attending members, both QPS and paramedics will be receiving the necessary support," he told reporters on Wednesday.
"In my 15-year career as a detective, it's one of the most confronting scenes that I have seen."
The girl's school has mobilised counselling and care teams to provide support to its community. (Darren England/AAP PHOTOS)
A statement from the girl's school acknowledged the devastating news of her death.
"Our prayers are with the family, friends, first responders and all affected by the loss of this beloved child in her home," the statement read.
"Our priority is supporting our community at this difficult time. We have mobilised our counselling and pastoral care teams to provide comprehensive support to students, staff and parents as our community comes to terms with this distressing news.
"We ask for understanding and respect for the privacy of our families and students at this time."
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