A tragic incident in Wangaratta, Victoria has left independent MP Helen Haines with both legs amputated after she was hit by a car in what Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described as “a deliberate attack.”
The 65-year-old politician underwent the surgery to her right leg on Wednesday, following an earlier amputation of her left leg in a Melbourne hospital, after being airlifted there. Her husband, Phil Haines, reassured reporters that she is alive and stable, expressing gratitude that both her heart and mind remain in good condition.
Police have classified the incident as a “targeted attack,” amid rising concerns over threats and online extremism directed at lawmakers in Australia, where political violence has been rare. Albanese emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating that Australians should be able to go about their daily lives without fear.
The assault occurred on Monday afternoon when Haines was retrieving items from her car. Authorities claim the alleged perpetrator, 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, drove past in a Toyota Land Cruiser, then circled back to hit her. After reversing, he rammed her again. Nugent has since been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and harming a public official, along with charges related to cannabis possession.
He appeared in court on Wednesday but did not enter a plea or apply for bail; he will remain in custody until his next court date in February. Australian Federal Police officials reported they had no prior warning of any danger posed by Nugent, and police investigations are ongoing to determine his motive, though they noted no direct past contact between him and Haines.
Haines, who became a member of parliament in 2019, is known for her advocacy on issues like climate action and corruption transparency. The Australian Human Rights Commission condemned her attack as part of a troubling rise in political threats, with incidents reportedly doubling between 2021 and 2025.
Calls for improved personal security for politicians have increased following this attack, highlighting the concerning trend of politically motivated violence in Australia.
