# Independent MP Helen Haines in critical condition after alleged attack

> Helen Haines, the independent federal MP for Indi, is in critical condition after an alleged attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon.
- Title: Independent MP Helen Haines in critical condition after…
- Summary: Helen Haines, the independent federal MP for Indi, is in critical condition after an alleged attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday…
- Keywords: breaking, helen haines, indi, wangaratta, alleged attack, victoria, australian politics, federal mp, news, politics, Independent, Helen
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/oct/19/helen-haines-alleged-attack-wangaratta-what-we-know-so-far-ntwnfb
- Published: 2026-10-19T09:58:16+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: breaking, helen haines, indi, wangaratta, alleged attack, victoria, australian politics, federal mp, news, politics
## Independent MP attacked outside her office
Helen Haines, the independent federal MP for the Victorian seat of Indi, was allegedly attacked outside her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon about three thirty-five pm.
## Suspect detained with knife seized
A forty-three-year-old man from Tarrawingee was allegedly involved in the incident. He was driving a white Toyota LandCruiser and was detained by passersby. Police seized a knife from the car.
## Haines in critical condition, motive unknown
The sixty-five-year-old MP is receiving treatment for critical injuries and was taken to hospital by road immediately after the attack. The motive for the alleged attack was not known.
## Major investigation under way, no prior threat known
Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police, ASIO and counter-terrorism investigators are involved. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was not aware of any specific threat to Haines before the incident.
## Key takeaway

Helen Haines, independent MP for Indi, is in critical condition after an alleged attack outside her Wangaratta electorate office on Monday afternoon. A 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee was detained.