Albanese says he never wants politicians to lose community access

PM says government takes advice from security agencies including AFP

Independent Australian MP Helen Haines was in critical condition at Melbourne’s Alfred hospital on October 19, 2026, after being struck by a car in Wangaratta, according to a Guardian Australia live blog.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was asked whether security would be stepped up following the attack. His response linked the security question to a broader defense of political accessibility.

“We take the advice of the security agencies, including, of course, the Australian Federal Police, you know, and we act upon that advice, but I never want to lose the opportunity for people to mix with their representatives,” Albanese said.

The prime minister returned to the theme in a second remark, calling community access to elected representatives “a really important part of our democracy” while reiterating that his government would continue to consult security agencies.

“That’s a really important part of our democracy. But we continue to take advice,” he added.

Asked about the broader political climate, Albanese said: “I think we can have disagreements without questioning people’s motives or their patriotism.”