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Australian MP Helen Haines was critically injured after a car struck her outside her Wangaratta office. Police are investigating a possible deliberate attack, while authorities have yet to establish a motive.
Australian MP Helen Haines critically injured in deliberate car attack, suspect arrested (Photo: Reuters)
Oct 19, 2026 15:04 IST
Australian lawmaker Helen Haines was in a critical condition on Monday after being deliberately struck by a car outside her office in Wangaratta. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that a suspect had been arrested in connection with the attack.
The 65-year-old independent MP was hit outside her electorate office in the regional Victorian town, about three hours’ drive northeast of Melbourne, shortly before 4 pm local time on Sunday. She was airlifted to hospital, Albanese said.
A 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee was arrested at the scene. Police said there was no further threat to the public.
Albanese said the motive for the attack remained unknown and that a joint counterterrorism team had been activated. He said he had been briefed by Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett.
“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,” Albanese told a news conference.
He described Haines as a "thoroughly decent human being, full of integrity and respected right across the parliament."
POLICE PROBE DELIBERATE ATTACK
Victoria Police said they believe a white Toyota LandCruiser struck Haines outside her office in Wangaratta.
According to police, the suspect was apprehended by a passerby after getting out of the vehicle. Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason said there was no further threat to the public.
Haines was taken to hospital with critical injuries. Police are investigating the circumstances of the attack, including whether the lawmaker and the suspect knew each other.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the investigation was in its "very early stages."
FAMILY SEEKS PRIVACY
Haines’ family confirmed that the mother of three was receiving medical care following the attack. In a statement, the family thanked the bystanders who assisted her, healthcare workers who provided treatment and police for their response.
“Our family, and Helen’s staff, will be making no further comment at this time, and ask that their privacy be respected by the public and media,” the statement said, adding, “Please keep Helen in your thoughts.”
HAINES HAS REPRESENTED INDI SINCE 2019
Haines has represented the federal electorate of Indi since 2019.
Burke also highlighted a rise in reports of harassing and threatening behaviour directed at people in high office, saying the number increased from 951 to 1,067 in the most recent financial year.
Authorities have not yet established a motive for the attack.
- Ends
With agency inputs
