Independent MP Helen Haines is critically injured after being rammed by a vehicle in what is alleged to be a targeted attack in Victoria. Haines, 65, is in critical condition at Melbourne's Alfred Hospital after losing a leg in the incident.
Haines was struck by a two-tonne SUV outside her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. The vehicle was driven by Brendan Nugent, 43, who has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury and intentionally causing serious injury.
Victorian Police have alleged the incident was targeted, with the attack likely linked to a broader culture of violence and hate in political discourse. Leaders across the political spectrum have called for a return to civil discourse and a focus on unity.
The human rights commission has stated that violence has no place in society, highlighting the need for a collective response to the rise of online hate and threatening rhetoric.