Federal MP Helen Haines improves after losing both legs in attack

Summarised from 3 outlets · 4 reports · Updated 25 Oct, 00:02 · Archive

Helen Haines, an independent federal MP, has improved in condition after losing both legs in an alleged attack outside her office.

Helen Haines, an independent federal MP, has shown improvement in her condition for the first time since an alleged attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria. She was struck twice by a four-wheel drive, sustaining severe injuries that required surgeons to amputate both of her legs. She remained in a serious but stable condition at Melbourne's Alfred hospital.

Brendan Nugent, 43, was arrested at the scene and charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury and causing harm to a commonwealth public official. He appeared in court on Wednesday where he was remanded in custody.

The incident has prompted discussion among Australian politicians about the rise of political violence and abuse directed at elected representatives. Cabinet minister Catherine King said on Sunday that parliamentarians had for years been bracing for such an attack, describing it as a matter of 'when, not if' that something would happen. She noted that politicians face increasing abuse through emails, phone calls and in person, making it difficult to protect themselves and their staff while carrying out their roles in the community.

How it is being reported

• AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett warns of growing abuse against politicians after Helen Haines’ alleged attackAFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett has warned of increasing abuse against elected representatives after an alleged attack on MP Helen Haines.Perth Now · 25 Oct, 01:42
• ‘When, not if’: Politicians were bracing for an attack, minister saysA minister has made a chilling claim about life as a politician in Australia, as the attack on Helen Haines has forced a national conversation about political discourse.The West Australian · 24 Oct, 23:50
• ‘When, not if’: Politicians were bracing for an attack, minister saysA minister has made a chilling claim about life as a politician in Australia, as the attack on Helen Haines has forced a national conversation about political discourse.Perth Now · 24 Oct, 23:50
• Federal MP Helen Haines' condition improves for first time since attackHelen Haines, the Federal MP who lost both her legs after an alleged attack, has improved in condition for the first time.WAtoday · 24 Oct, 09:09

In this story: Helen Haines · Brendan Nugent · Catherine King · Wangaratta · Victoria · Alfred hospital

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