From the Guardian · · 2m
MPs pay thousands for own security after Haines attack
Australian politicians are spending their own money on home and office security after an alleged attack on MP Helen Haines prompted safety briefings across parliament.
In brief
Australian politicians are spending their own money on home and office security after an alleged attack on MP Helen Haines prompted safety briefings across parliament. Federal politicians told police and security agencies they are paying thousands for their own safety upgrades after the alleged attack on Helen Haines…
Attack prompts safety review
Security agencies will review safety precautions for MPs' homes and offices after the alleged attack on Helen Haines, who lost both her legs in Monday's incident.
Politicians spending own money
Multiple MPs across the political spectrum told police and Asio in safety briefings on Wednesday that they had spent thousands of dollars of their own money to install safety features.
Threats to politicians rising
The Australian federal police recorded nine hundred fifty-one reports of harassing and threatening behaviour against office holders two years ago. Last year, that increased to one thousand sixty-seven.
Backbenchers feel under-resourced
Federal ministers receive stronger security assistance, but numerous backbenchers said they felt under-resourced, saying many angry constituents may not differentiate between cabinet members and ordinary local MPs.
Ryan backs more office security
Independent MP Monique Ryan said she supports more resources to secure offices. If it makes my team feel better and safer to have bollards out the front, I'm happy, she said.
“If it makes my team feel better and safer to have bollards out the front, I'm happy.”
Home security concerns widespread
Many MPs said they did not want security guards or armed escorts in public, but felt alarmed for their homes and families. Some wanted cameras and floodlights after not being offered such features.
Regional MPs face particular risks
Nationals MP Sam Birrell said regional politicians had particular concerns, with many being highly visible in their communities and locals often knowing where they lived.
Offices described as exposed
Liberal senator James Paterson told Radio National electorate offices were very exposed and were not well protected. Multiple people raised concerns about how to protect electorate office staff.
“very exposed”
Government response remains limited
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government had overseen an increase in funding for security for members of parliament in the last couple of years. A broad-ranging government review is not expected at this stage.
The bottom line
Federal politicians told police and security agencies they are paying thousands for their own safety upgrades after the alleged attack on Helen Haines, with a broad government review unlikely at this stage.
