An Australian federal lawmaker is in a critical state following an incident where a car struck them, which Prime Minister Anthony Albanese referred to as an “attack.” Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Helen Haines was reportedly hit outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, located north-east of Melbourne, according to Albanese.
A 43-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident. While counter-terrorism units have been mobilized, the motive remains unclear. Newsweek has reached out to Victoria Police for comments.
Details of the Incident
Victoria Police reported that a white Toyota Land Cruiser driven by the suspect struck Haines around 3:35 p.m. local time (12:35 a.m. ET) on Monday. The suspect, a 43-year-old resident of Tarrawingee, was apprehended by a passerby at the scene.
Authorities later found a knife inside the vehicle. Police are investigating if the act was intentional and whether the individuals involved were acquainted.
Australia’s public broadcaster, ABC News, stated that the suspect was known to police. A mental health assessment is expected for the suspect, and counter-terror investigators will review his history.
The area around Haines’ office on Murphy Street, Wangaratta, remained under tight security for hours following the event, with the city’s central business district cordoned off.
Prime Minister Albanese commented that it is too early to determine the attack’s motivation. He also noted an increase in political tension recently.
Political Tensions in Australia
Mike Burgess, head of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), warned in February 2025 about escalating political violence and an unprecedented level of threats expected until 2030.
Albanese expressed concern about political discourse, emphasizing his desire for open conversations without risks in public spaces.
About Helen Haines
Helen Haines has represented the federal seat of Indi since 2019. At 65, she recently secured her third term as an Independent MP during the last federal election.
The Indi area includes parts of Victoria’s north-east such as Wodonga, Wangaratta, and Benalla. Historically, conservatives held the seat for over 80 years until 2013.
Haines narrowly won Indi with 51.4% of the vote in 2019, later increasing her share to 58.6% in May 2025.
She is seen as a moderate progressive and is noted for her dedication to health reforms. Before entering politics, Haines worked as a nurse, midwife, and public-health researcher.
She was instrumental in establishing Australia’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and serves as deputy chair of its joint committee.
National Reactions
The Centre for Public Integrity, with which Haines has connections, described the incident as an “act of democratic violence” if intentional. The institute recognized Haines as a steadfast advocate for integrity in public life.
Opposition leader Angus Taylor described it as a “shocking day for our nation,” affirming that targeting individuals in such a manner is unacceptable. He emphasized that political violence should not become normal.
Queensland senator Pauline Hanson from the One Nation party condemned the violence on Facebook, asserting that representatives should operate safely in serving their communities.