Shock as MP critically injured in 'deliberate' attack

Australian MP Helen Haines critically injured in 'deliberate' attack

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Independent MP Helen Haines is fighting for her life after a 'horrific' attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria. The 65-year-old is in a critical condition after being hit by a vehicle while loading up her car on Monday afternoon.

The attack is being investigated by counter-terrorism authorities, with the national joint counter-terrorism team, including representatives from the Australian Federal Police and spy agency ASIO, working alongside state authorities. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said there was 'no place for political violence' in Australia.

The 43-year-old male driver, from the nearby town of Tarrawingee, is in custody after a bystander performed a citizen's arrest. A knife was seized from inside the suspect's Toyota Landcruiser, police said. Authorities are yet to determine the motive for the attack or establish whether the two parties are known to each other.

The prime minister said he was not aware of any personal threats being made against Dr Haines. 'Helen Haines is incredibly hardworking. She is fiercely intelligent, but most importantly, she's just a thoroughly decent human being, full of integrity, and respected right across the parliament,' Mr Albanese said.

The attack comes after the federal police documented a steady rise in threats and abuse directed towards the nation's politicians in recent years. Politicians have historically been highly accessible to the public and usually go about their business without security.

Prime Minister Albanese praised Haines, describing her as 'incredibly hardworking' and 'fiercely intelligent'. He also acknowledged that the 'temperature has increased' in recent times, with people expressing more aggressive views online.