The NSW man had earlier tried to enter Boolee Street from Currong South Street in Braddon – an intersection where a road block was set up - but left after he was advised of the closure.

ACT Policing said a short time later the man returned and allegedly proceeded through the road block, driving over the police officer’s foot, to a car park down the road.

The man was arrested a short distance away, and charged with failing to stop when requested by police, reckless driving and recklessly inflicting actual bodily harm.

He will face the ACT Magistrates Court on July 9.

Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the explosion at the public housing complex shortly before 2pm on Tuesday, which caused a fire and extensive damage and led to two people being taken to hospital, one with burns to her hands.

ACT Policing North District Superintendent Brett Kidner said that police blocks are put in place to ensure the safety of emergency personnel dealing and the public.

“There was a large amount of smoke and Emergency Services were busy doing their jobs, when one person decided to disobey a police direction, which could have ended tragically under different circumstances,” Superintendent Kidner said.

“If you fail to obey a direction by a police officer, you may be charged with a criminal offence. Depending on the situation, you may also place yourself, police and the general public in a dangerous position. Police have these road blocks and cordons for a reason, not to inconvenience the public."