Independent MP Helen Haines is in a critical condition after being hit by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta in what the Prime Minister has described as an “attack”.
Mon 19 Oct 2026 21.36 AEDT
Photo: AAP Image/Lukas Coch
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Independent MP Helen Haines is in a critical condition after being hit by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta in what the Prime Minister has described as an “attack”.
“This wasn’t an accident. There was a deliberate act, it would appear. We don’t know what the motivation is,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told the ABC’s 7.30 program.
The 65-year-old politician sustained serious leg injuries when she was hit by a white Toyota LandCruiser at around 3:30pm, pinning her between two cars.
The driver, a 43-year-old man, was detained in a citizen’s arrest.
The Tarrawingee man is now in custody, with Victoria Police confirming they had found and seized a knife inside his vehicle.
“This would have been a tragic, horrific incident for people to witness,” said Victoria Police Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason.
The Prime Minister confirmed the Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) has been activated.
It comprises the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).
Dr Haines, a former nurse and midwife, has represented the the Victorian seat of Indi as an independent since 2019.
“This was a serious incident, and her health issues are serious. Our thoughts are very much with her, with her family, her friends, her team, and indeed her community,” said Mr Albanese.
“There’s a reason why Helen Haines is so loved and admired because she’s someone of integrity. She’s someone who treats everyone with respect.
“And she’s someone who is a beacon of light for that community there in northern Victoria.”
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The Prime Minister said he wasn’t aware of any threats to Dr Haines personally, but suggested the incident reflected the current political temperature.
“I think there has been a rise in temperature, and there has been too much shouting, not enough discourse, not enough polite conversation and disagreement,” he said.
“And in a democracy, we should be able to have discussion, political debate, put different views, but do it in a way that is respectful.”
Speaking at a snap press conference earlier, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said threats against high profile Australians had increased significantly.
“Last year, or the year before last, we had 951 reports of harassing and threatening behaviour against various high office holders,” said Mr Burke.
“The more recent financial year, that 951’s gone to 1,067 at this moment in time.”
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and the political sphere.
Opposition leader Angus Taylor issued a statement saying: “I am deeply saddened and distressed by the news out of Wangaratta tonight involving Dr Helen Haines MP. I’m praying for Helen and thinking of her family and loved ones.
“This is a shocking day for our nation. No-one should be targeted in this way.
“Australians will be angry and appalled by the attack on Helen outside her electorate office in Wangaratta.”
“It’s hard to imagine that this isn’t a moment of very profound change in this country,” said 7.30 host Sarah Ferguson.
“Deep shock of politicians, a deep shock for the community, and obviously a great deal of police and intelligence to follow.”
