Parliament hears MP lost both legs in Wangaratta attack

Indi MP Helen Haines lost both legs in an incident outside her electorate office in Wangaratta last week. She remains in serious but stable condition. A 43-year-old man has been charged in connection with the event, and police continue their investigation.

The sequence of events following the incident was detailed in federal parliament on Monday. Allegra Spender, the member for Wentworth, relayed information shared by Haines's husband, Phil Haines. Spender stated that Haines's first conscious act was to determine whether her staff were safe. She then expressed gratitude to the bystanders who assisted her, as well as the doctors, nurses, and first responders on scene.

Spender described the reaction as a reflection of Haines's character. She noted that while colleagues have praised the MP's empathy, Haines also served as a force for change in her role. The details provided a concrete example of how Haines responded to the trauma of losing both lower limbs.

The chamber hosted tributes to Haines on Monday. Members of parliament wore baby's breath flowers and orange heart lapel pins. An orange cockatoo, a symbol of Haines's local campaign, was placed at her seat in the House of Representatives. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Haines as a fighter. He said the shock of the event was like a stone in their hearts.

Albanese warned against dismissing a real rise in anger in public life. He argued that social media anonymity and speed are feeding aggression directed at workers in hospitality, retail, education, healthcare, and public safety. This context frames the incident within a wider discussion on the tone of national politics.

Opposition leader Angus Taylor and One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce rejected calls to alter parliamentary practice to cool the debate. Taylor stated that the Westminster system exists to settle differences through rigorous argument. He argued that those who turn to intimidation cross a line that must never be crossed. He also suggested judges should come down harder on those convicted of intimidation or violence.

Joyce described the alleged attack as unAustralian. He stated that while parliament has a part to play, it will not solve the problem alone. He called it foolish to think that changing question time would change the country. MPs are currently encouraged to sign a civility pledge committing to honesty, respect, and compassion. Speaker Milton Dick said he looks forward to the day he can call the member for Indi back to the chamber.