The intruder stole cash, car keys and other property from the house in Sydney on Sunday afternoon.
The homeowner, a 68-year-old man, used a wooden bow to challenge the thief as he tried to steal a car.
The robber fled the vehicle and jumped a fence but was shot from behind as he ran to a parked getaway car.
He managed to use the vehicle to escape. It was not immediately clear from reports how serious his injuries were.
"Police seized a number of items from the location, including the bow and similar arrows," a spokesman for New South Wales police told the BBC.
"We believe that the arrow is still with the injured party", he added.
Police forensic officers will examine the scene at Wattle Grove, in the city`s southwest.
Australian laws do not always favour the homeowner when an intruder is injured or killed, taking into account whether a person acted in self-defence or used "excessive force".
Wooden bows are not banned in New South Wales and do not require a licence or permit.
Australian burglar shot with bow and arrow
07 November 2016
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A burglar in Australia was shot in the "buttocks or lower back area" with a bow and arrow after being confronted by an angry homeowner, police say.
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