Political leaders across the spectrum have rallied around independent MP Helen Haines, expressing shock and condemning violence after the 65-year-old was struck by a car in what the Prime Minister described as an “attack”.
Mon 19 Oct 2026 21.54 AEDT
Photo: Independent member for Indi Helen Haines with fellow crossbenchers at a press conference at Parliament House (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)
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Political leaders across the spectrum have rallied around independent MP Helen Haines, expressing shock and condemning violence after the 65-year-old was struck by a car in what the Prime Minister described as an “attack”.
Dr Haines is in a critical condition after being hit by a white Toyota LandCruiser outside her electorate office in Wangaratta.
The driver, a 43-year-old man, was detained in a citizen’s arrest.
Anthony Albanese said the Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) was investigating the motive but suggested the incident reflected the current political temperature
“Here in Australia, it is a good thing that politicians are able to go about their community and engage with people,” he told host Sarah Ferguson on the ABC’s 7.30 program.
“I don’t want to see a political system in which you can’t have conversations with people at the supermarket, in the street, at street meetings, public forums — that’s an important part of our democracy.
“She treats people with respect. She’s well-regarded in the parliament as well, right across the political spectrum. And certainly, there’s no place for political violence in a democracy.”
Independent MP for Wentworth Allegra Spender told the ABC Dr Haines is “one of the most outstanding people in Parliament” and is widely respected across the political spectrum.
“She doesn’t play politics. She’s actually just really interested in what is best for her community and best for the country, and frankly, you know, a true inspiration, and obviously one of the trailblazers in the independent movement,” said Ms Spender.
Ms Spender said rising threats and hostility towards politicians had fuelled fears of a violent incident.
“We’ve seen an increase in violent language and also, you know, sort of some of the actions, of jostling and other kind of actions against politicians, and I think many people have feared that there would be some sort of violent incident against Australian politicians,” she said.
Opposition leader Angus Taylor said he was deeply saddened and distressed by the news and was praying for the former nurse and midwife.
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“This is a shocking day for our nation. No-one should be targeted in this way,” he said in a statement.
“Australians will be angry and appalled by the attack on Helen outside her electorate office in Wangaratta. Our nation cannot become a place where violent attacks are normalised.
“I’ve spoken with the prime minister, and we are united in our view that political violence must never be accepted as part of public life.”
Greens leader Senator David Shoebridge also expressed his shock, writing on social media:
“Horrified to hear of the apparent attack on my friend and colleague Helen Haines.
“Helen is an extraordinary human being and brings people together like few others. In grief and solidarity wishing her a complete recovery.”
One Nation leader Senator Pauline Hanson also joined the cross-party show of support for Dr Haines.
“I am horrified and saddened that Helen Haines has been seriously injured in an attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta today,” she posted on social media.
“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.”
Independent Member for Mackellar Dr Sophie Scamps described Dr Haines as “the best of of all of us” and called the attack “unfathomable”, saying in a statement:
“This defies understanding. The divisive hate filled politics has to end. No more.”
