Independent federal MP Helen Haines has been critically injured after being struck by a four-wheel drive outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, regional Victoria, prompting an outpouring of concern from political leaders.
Emergency services responded to Murphy Street at about 3.30pm on Monday after a white Toyota LandCruiser struck a 65-year-old woman. Haines was taken to hospital for medical treatment.
Victoria Police said a 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee had been arrested following the incident and was being interviewed by investigators. A knife was reportedly found inside the vehicle, and police are investigating whether the incident was intentional.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as serious and said a major investigation would involve the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation. He said it was too early to determine the motive.
“I want to update Australians on a serious incident that has occurred in Victoria this afternoon. Helen Haines, the member for Indi, was attacked outside her electorate office in Wangaratta,” Albanese said on Monday evening.
“All of our thoughts are with Helen, her family, her friends, her team, and her community at this extremely difficult time. We are praying for her full recovery.”
He also thanked first responders for their work.
Pauline Hanson condemns attack
One Nation leader Senator Pauline Hanson said she was horrified and saddened by the incident, offering her thoughts to Haines, her family and staff.
“Violence against any elected representative, whoever they are and whatever they stand for, is never acceptable in Australia,” Hanson said.
“Members of parliament and their staff must be able to serve their communities without fearing for their safety.”
Hanson wished Haines a full and speedy recovery and urged the public to allow police to investigate.
She also thanked emergency services and members of the public who rushed to help.
Family asks for privacy
Haines’ family confirmed she was receiving medical care and thanked bystanders, health workers and police for their assistance.
“This afternoon, our beloved Helen was involved in an incident outside her Wangaratta Electorate Office, and is receiving medical care,” the family said.
The statement asked the public and media to respect the family’s privacy, adding: “Please keep Helen in your thoughts.”
A witness told the ABC that several local residents stepped in to help after the incident.
“They were all heroes,” the witness said.
Who is Helen Haines?
Haines has represented the regional Victorian electorate of Indi since the 2019 federal election, succeeding fellow independent Cathy McGowan.
A former nurse, midwife and health researcher, she has advocated for improved telecommunications infrastructure and the establishment of Australia’s National Anti-Corruption Commission.
The electorate covers a large area of north-eastern Victoria, including Wangaratta, Wodonga, Beechworth, Myrtleford and Corryong.
Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
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