Helen Haines attacked

Australian independent lawmaker Helen Haines was critically injured in a deliberate car attack in Wangaratta, Australia.

“a woman places flowers outside the office of Australian politician Helen Haines in the northern regional city of Wangaratta, about 250 kilometres north-east of Melbourne on October 20, 2026”

Attack details

Haines was struck by a 43-year-old man driving a Toyota Land Cruiser while collecting items from her car's trunk.

Critical condition

Haines underwent surgery overnight but remains in critical condition after the attack.

Community reaction

Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant described the town as feeling horror and disbelief after the attack on the well-respected lawmaker.

“helen was well respected. she was diligent and hard working”

Local perspective

Florist Jess Woodrow called Haines a 'beautiful person' who was 'devastated' by the attack.

“helen was a beautiful person. she didn’t have a bad bone in her body”

Political background

Haines entered parliament in 2019, representing the seat of Indi with over 18,000 votes at the 2025 election.

Prime Minister's statement

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Haines for her kindness, compassion, and role as a respected advocate across the political spectrum.

“helen haines is characterised by her kindness, her compassion, her diligence, her intelligence”