Australian MP Helen Haines ‘critically’ hurt in car ramming attack

Independent Australian lawmaker Helen Haines was deliberately struck by a car on Monday, leaving her with what police described as “critical injuries.” The 65-year-old was attacked outside her office in Wangaratta, a town just over 200 km northwest of Melbourne.

Attack and arrest

Victoria Police Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason said Haines “suffered what has been described as critical injuries.” A 43-year-old male driver was detained by civilians at the scene, then arrested by police. Officers found a knife in his car. The motive remains unknown.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it an attack, not an accident. “This wasn’t an accident. There was a deliberate act,” he told journalists. He added: “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.”

Rising threats

Australia’s counter-terrorism squad has been activated. The Australian Federal Police has documented a steady rise in threats and abuse toward politicians in recent years, and last year set up a dedicated team to investigate groups and individuals targeting lawmakers. Albanese said “the temperature has increased in recent times” and that people say things online they would never say face to face.

Haines entered parliament in 2019 after working as a nurse and midwife. She is known for supporting stronger climate action and for efforts to increase transparency and crack down on corruption. Her family issued a statement thanking bystanders and health workers, and asking for privacy.