MELBOURNE – Australian independent lawmaker Helen Haines was in hospital with critical injuries on Monday after being deliberately struck by a car in what officials described as a “violent” attack.
Political violence is rare in Australia, but law enforcement officials have documented a steady rise in threats and abuse directed at elected officials in recent years.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led tributes to Haines, who has been praised for her efforts to improve transparency in politics and tackle corruption.
She was struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser outside her office in Wangaratta, about 200 kilometres northeast of Melbourne, at around 3.35pm (0435 GMT).
Witnesses told national broadcaster ABC they heard a bang and saw a woman pinned between two cars.
Police said Haines, 65, was critically injured.
ABC reported that she had been airlifted to Melbourne for emergency treatment.
The 43-year-old driver was detained by bystanders before being arrested by police, Mason said.
Police found a knife in the vehicle, while Australian media reported that the man was known to police.
‘Temperature’ has risen too high
Albanese said the alleged attacker’s motive remained unknown.
However, he expressed concern that political debate in Australia had become increasingly heated and personal in recent years.
“The temperature has increased in recent times,” Albanese told ABC.
“I’ve expressed that concern to people in the media,” he said.
“If you look at anyone’s social media feeds and look at the comments, people will say things that they would never say face to face.”
Victoria Premier Ben Carroll said he was “appalled” by the “violent attack” in his state.
“I know how devastating this will be for the Wangaratta community and all those who Helen represents,” he said.
Haines entered Parliament in 2019 after working as a nurse and midwife, and became known for positions including support for stronger climate action.
“This afternoon, our beloved Helen was involved in an incident outside her Wangaratta Electorate Office, and is receiving medical care,” her family said.
“We thank the swift assistance of bystanders and the dedicated health workers who assisted her, and police for their response.”
‘Shocking day’ for Australia
Tributes to the independent lawmaker poured in from across the political spectrum on Monday night.
Conservative opposition leader Angus Taylor described it as a “shocking day for our nation”.
Far-right Senator Pauline Hanson said “violence against any elected representative, whoever they are and whatever they stand for, is never acceptable in Australia”.
Albanese described Haines as “fiercely intelligent but, most importantly, she’s just a thoroughly decent human being”.
“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,” he said.
“She’s someone who is a beacon of light for that community there in northern Victoria.” –AFP