Haines Lost Both Legs In Attack

Helen Haines lost both legs in an alleged attack at her electorate office in Wangaratta.

Allegra Spender, the member for Wentworth, delivered the details to the federal chamber on Monday. Spender stated that Haines’s husband, Phil Haines, shared the account of the incident. The MP woke from the event and immediately inquired about the safety of her staff. She then expressed gratitude to the bystanders, doctors, nurses, and first responders who assisted her.

The timeline of the events is now in the public record. The incident occurred outside the Wangaratta office. Haines is currently in a serious but stable condition. A 43-year-old man has been charged in connection with the attack. Police are continuing their investigation into the case.

Spender described the reaction as a reflection of Haines’s character. "That exactly speaks to the character of who you are," Spender said. She noted that while many praised the MP’s empathy, Haines was also a force for change. The chamber received tributes on Monday. Members wore baby’s breath flowers and orange heart lapel pins. An orange cockatoo, a symbol of Haines’s local campaign, sat on her seat in the House of Representatives.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the House regarding the shock of the event. He called Haines a fighter and described the national reaction as a stone in their hearts. Albanese warned against dismissing the rise in anger in public life. He said social media anonymity and speed were feeding aggression directed at various workers, including teachers, hospital staff, and police. The debate has since shifted to the safety of members of parliament.

Opposition leader Angus Taylor and One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce both spoke against changing parliamentary practice. Taylor rejected a causal link between rigorous debate and political violence. He argued that the Westminster system settles differences through argument and that violence crosses a line that must never be crossed. Taylor suggested judges come down harder on those convicted of intimidation. Joyce told News24 that the attack was unAustralian. He called it foolish to think changing question time would solve the problem.

Members are being encouraged to sign a civility pledge this week. The pledge commits signatories to honesty, respect, and compassion. Speaker Milton Dick said all members were thinking of Haines. He looked forward to the day he could give the call to the member for Indi again.