Independent federal MP Helen Haines is in a critical condition after an incident involving a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, in regional Victoria.
A statement from the politician’s family thanked emergency services and bystanders for their actions following the incident.
“This afternoon, our beloved Helen was involved in an incident outside her Wangaratta Electorate Office and is receiving medical care,” the statement said.
“We thank the swift assistance of bystanders, the dedicated health workers who assisted her, and police for their response.
“Our family, and Helen’s staff, will be making no further comment at this time and ask that our privacy be respected by the public and media.
“Please keep Helen in your thoughts.”
Haines was airlifted to Melbourne, where she is receiving treatment in hospital.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed on Monday evening that a man is in custody and that the matter is being investigated by the Australian Federal Police, ASIO, and the Joint Counter Terrorism Team.
The Prime Minister said no information was currently available regarding any possible motive and declined to comment on whether the suspect was previously known to authorities.
“Helen Haines is incredibly hard-working. She is fiercely intelligent, but most importantly, she is a thoroughly decent human being, full of integrity and respected right across the parliament. She is a well-loved member of her community, and this will come as an incredible shock to that community,” Albanese said.
Police confirmed that a 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee was arrested at the scene after being detained by a passerby.
The incident occurred at 3.35pm. Police allege that Haines was struck by a Toyota LandCruiser.
“A knife was located by police and seized from inside the Toyota. At this stage, police are investigating whether this was an intentional act,” a police spokesperson said.
The incident has renewed discussion about the growing number of threats reported against politicians and other public figures.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said reported threats against senior office holders had increased over the past year.
“The year before last, we recorded 951 reports of harassing and threatening behaviour against various high office holders,” he said.
“In the most recent financial year, that figure increased to 1,067.”
In several interviews in recent months, the Prime Minister has called on leaders across the political spectrum to “turn down the heat” in public debate.
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor described the alleged attack as “shocking”.
“This is a shocking day for our nation. No one should be targeted in this way,” he said.
“Australians will be angry and appalled by the attack on Helen outside her electorate office in Wangaratta.
“Our nation cannot become a place where violent attacks are normalised.
“I’ve spoken with the Prime Minister, and we are united in our view that political violence must never be accepted as part of public life.” Taylor said.
