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Threats and violence against Australian politicians

Covers attacks, threats, investigations, security responses and political reactions affecting Australian parliamentarians and their public access to communities.

Australian MP Helen Haines critical after vehicle strike in Wangaratta

Illustration accompanying article: Australian MP Helen Haines critical after vehicle strike in Wangaratta
  • The independent federal member for the Victorian electorate of Indi, Helen Haines, was struck by a white Toyota LandCruiser outside her electorate office on Murphy Street in Wangaratta about 3:35 p.m. Monday and is in critical condition, according to Victoria Police.
  • A 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee, about 10km from Wangaratta, is in custody after being detained by a passerby, and a knife was allegedly found inside his vehicle, Victoria Police said.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the alleged attack is being investigated by the Australian Federal Police, ASIO and the joint counter-terror taskforce, and that the motive remains unknown.
  • Haines' family asked for privacy in a statement, thanking bystanders and health workers for their swift assistance.
  • Nationals MP Michael McCormack posted best wishes for "a full and speedy recovery" on social media.
 2026-10-19 · 3 MIN READ