Independent MP Helen Haines Critically Injured in Vehicle Attack
Independent MP Helen Haines is in critical condition after being struck by a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, prompting a counter-terrorism investigation.
Independent Member of Parliament Helen Haines was critically injured on Monday, October 19, 2026, after being struck by a white Toyota LandCruiser outside her electorate office on Murphy Street in Wangaratta, Victoria. The 65-year-old MP for the seat of Indi was reportedly unloading items from a car at approximately 3:35 p.m. when the vehicle hit her, causing severe lower body injuries. She was airlifted to a hospital in Melbourne and remains in critical condition.
A 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee was detained at the scene by civilians, including a local barber, before being arrested by police. Authorities subsequently seized a knife from inside the vehicle.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese characterized the event as an attack and a serious incident, triggering the activation of the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, and the joint counter-terrorism taskforce to investigate potential motives. While authorities continue to determine if the act was intentional, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke highlighted a rising trend in threats against high-office holders, noting that reports of harassing and threatening behavior increased from 951 in the previous financial year to 1,067 in the most recent one.
