A 43‑year‑old driver made a U‑turn, rammed Haines against her vehicle, then reversed to strike her again outside the electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria, on Monday at 3:35 p.m. The assault left the 65‑year‑old MP with a severed leg and a shattered sense of safety.
Police arrested the driver on the scene and charged him with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and causing harm to a public official. Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police and counter‑terrorism units are probing the motive, but so far no further threats have been identified.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said witnesses reported that the driver deliberately targeted Haines, describing the incident as "clearly a deliberate act". Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed Burke’s warning, calling for a more respectful political climate amid rising concerns over threats to elected representatives.
Haines was rushed overnight to a Melbourne hospital for emergency surgery. Doctors report she is in critical condition, and her family has been kept informed through a spokesperson.
A local resident who witnessed the crash told reporters that he saw the driver step out, pointing a finger at her before police arrived. The community in Wangaratta has rallied around the MP, with several residents offering support and visiting the hospital.
The case is set to be reviewed by the Victorian Crime Commission next month, with a full hearing expected by late October.