Independent MP Dr Helen Haines is in a critical condition in hospital after being struck by a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta. Police believe it was a deliberate act, and counter-terrorism authorities are now investigating.
Dr Haines, 65, was loading up her car on Murphy Street in northern Victoria when she was hit on Monday afternoon. Emergency services were called about 3:35pm. She has been flown to Melbourne for specialist treatment.
Investigators say a 43-year-old Tarrawingee man was driving the Toyota LandCruiser that struck her. After leaving the vehicle, the man was subdued and arrested by passersby. He was allegedly carrying a knife which has been seized by police.
The national joint counter-terrorism team, including members of the Australian Federal Police and ASIO, has begun investigating alongside state authorities.
“It is too early in this investigation for me to provide you with details of what the motivation is behind this attack,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“There’s a reason why Helen Haines is so loved and admired, because she’s someone of integrity,” Mr Albanese said.
Dr Haines has represented the regional seat of Indi as an independent since 2019. She came to prominence on a platform of political transparency and integrity. She is also deputy chair of the parliamentary committee that looks at the National Anti-Corruption Commission.
Dr Haines’ family issued a statement through her office.
“This afternoon, our beloved Helen was involved in an incident outside her Wangaratta Electorate Office, and is receiving medical care,” her family said.
“We thank the swift assistance of bystanders and the dedicated health workers who assisted her, and police for their response.”
“Please keep Helen in your thoughts.”
The family and Dr Haines’ staff will make no further comment and have asked for privacy.
Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke said reports of harassing and threatening behaviour against high office holders had risen from 951 to 1,067 in the most recent financial year.
Asked whether he had been worried that the heated political climate could lead to a physical attack on a politician, Mr Albanese said he had raised the concern publicly.
“I’ve expressed that concern very publicly and I’ve expressed that concern to people in the media,” he said.
“But the temperature has undoubtedly been increased, not just here in Australia, of course.”
He urged people to help turn the temperature down.
“We can have political debate in a respectful way. We can have differences,” Mr Albanese said.
“Our nation cannot become a place where violent attacks are normalised,” said Leader of the Opposition Angus Taylor.
“I’ve spoken with the Prime Minister, and we are united in our view that political violence must never be accepted as part of public life.”
Other MPs also responded.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Helen, her family, work family and the entire Indi community at this difficult time,” wrote Parkes MP Jamie Chaffey.
“I am wishing her a fast and full recovery.”
“My thoughts and prayers are with my Parliamentary colleague Helen Haines and her family, friends and staff tonight,” wrote Lyne MP Alison Penfold.
“Indications by police this may have been a deliberate attack is appalling.”
“Violence in any form has no place in Australian society.”
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