.svg)
Independent Australian MP Helen Haines is in a critical condition after being struck by a car outside her office in Victoria, prompting a major police investigation involving the joint counterterrorism unit.
The 65-year-old MP was injured when a white Toyota Land Cruiser SUV hit her in a car park near her office in Wangaratta, northeast of Melbourne, at around 3:35pm on Monday.
According to reports, Ms Haines was unloading items from the boot of a car when the incident occurred. She was airlifted to hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Victoria Police said a knife was found inside the vehicle and investigators were examining whether the incident was intentional.
A 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee was detained at the scene by a passerby before being arrested and taken into custody for questioning.
Police have not confirmed whether the suspect and Ms Haines knew each other.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said a major police investigation was under way and the joint counterterrorism unit had been activated. However, he stressed that it was too early to determine the motive behind the incident.
Mr Albanese praised Ms Haines as a hardworking and respected parliamentarian, describing her as a person of integrity who was valued across the political spectrum.
He said the incident would come as a significant shock to her community and expressed his support for her family, friends, colleagues and constituents.
Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason said there was no further threat to the public.
In a statement reported by ABC News, Ms Haines's family confirmed that she was receiving medical care. They thanked bystanders, healthcare workers and police for their swift response and asked for privacy while she receives treatment.
Ms Haines was first elected in 2019 to represent the electorate of Indi in Victoria. She has opposed several government proposals, including fossil fuel subsidies, restrictions on mobile phones in immigration detention and changes to political donation transparency.
The incident comes amid growing concerns about threats against Australian politicians. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said police received 1,067 reports of harassing and threatening behaviour targeting senior public officials during the 2025–26 financial year, compared with 951 in the previous year.
Federal Opposition Leader Angus Taylor described the incident as a shocking day for Australia, while One Nation leader Pauline Hanson said she was horrified and saddened by the attack.
Political leaders across the country stressed that violence against elected representatives is unacceptable and that politicians and their staff must be able to serve their communities without fearing for their safety.
