Federal MP Helen Haines attacked outside her office

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 19 Oct, 12:31 · Archive

Independent federal MP Helen Haines was struck by a four-wheel drive outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria, suffering critical injuries. The 65-year-old has represented the division of Indi since 2019. A man is in custody in connection with the incident, which is under police investigation.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the media after the attack, describing Haines as a deeply respected politician and 'a beacon of light'. He called the incident horrifying and said it had sent shock waves through Australia.

Albanese used the occasion to reiterate his calls for parliamentarians to be able to carry out their work without fear of threats or intimidation, and to warn about the consequences of personal vilification and increasingly aggressive political commentary. Police are still investigating the circumstances of the attack and whether it was politically motivated.

Federal MP Helen Haines attacked outside her office — Image: ABC New South Wales

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How it is being reported

After MP 'attacked' in the street, our democracy is facing its biggest testWith four words, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese laid bare the horrifying nature of an attack that has sent shock waves through Australia.ABC New South Wales · 19 Oct, 12:09
Albanese praises Haines as ‘a beacon of light’Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says federal MP Helen Haines is a deeply respected politician.The Sydney Morning Herald · 19 Oct, 10:53
PM confirms suspect in custody after MP attackedPrime Minister Anthony Albanese addresses the media after federal MP Helen Haines was attacked outside her electorate office.The Sydney Morning Herald · 19 Oct, 09:44

In this story: Helen Haines · Anthony Albanese · Indi · Wangaratta · Victoria

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