On May 8, independent MP Helen Haines was critically injured after being deliberately struck by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria. The incident prompted a swift response from authorities.
A 43-year-old male driver was arrested at the scene.
Statement from Senator Pauline Hanson, One Nation Leader: I am horrified and saddened that Helen Haines has been seriously injured in an attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta today. My thoughts are with Helen, her family and her staff. I wish her a full and speedy recovery, and I know Australians everywhere are wishing the same. Police are investigating, and we should let them do their work. Violence against any elected representative, whoever they are and whatever they stand for, is never acceptable in Australia. Members of parliament and their staff must be able to serve their communities without fearing for their safety. I thank the emergency services and the members of the public who rushed to help.
With the motive unclear, Australia’s counter-terrorism squad was called in to assist the investigation, given the deliberate nature of the attack and the presence of a weapon.
There was a deliberate act," underscoring the intentional nature of the strike.
Helen Haines is recognized in parliament for her advocacy on climate action and anti-corruption measures. Her colleagues and constituents have praised her commitment to these issues.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese immediately described the incident as an attack. He stated, "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."
Albanese later emphasized, "This wasn't an accident. There was a deliberate act," underscoring the intentional nature of the strike.
Helen Haines deliberately attacked for no clear reason. It’s time for Pauline Hanson and One Nation to reflect on calling Andrew Hastie a traitor to our country. Words have consequences and calling a former SAS Soldier who is now a MP a traitor is dangerous and wrong.
The Prime Minister announced that a terrorism task force would investigate the suspect, reflecting the government’s serious approach to the incident.
Albanese noted the increasing hostility in public discourse, both in Australia and internationally. He highlighted the rise in threatening behavior, with reports climbing from 951 to 1,067 in the most recent financial year.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the increase in reports of harassing and threatening behavior against high office holders, citing the recent surge in numbers.
Helen Haines’ family released a statement: "Our beloved Helen was involved in an incident outside her Wangaratta Electorate Office, and is receiving medical care."
Albanese thanked emergency crews, saying, "I want to thank the first responders for their extraordinary work."
The Prime Minister reiterated, "We are praying for her full recovery."