Helen Haines, the independent federal member for Indi, was unloading material from her Subaru station wagon outside her Murphy Street office when she was struck by a white Toyota Landcruiser, according to police. The politician sustained lower body injuries and was taken by ambulance to Wangaratta hospital in a critical condition, before being expected to be flown to Melbourne for further treatment.
Acting Superintendent Ashley Mason told reporters at the scene that it was "too early to say" whether the incident was a targeted or intentional act, but that it "will certainly be a focus of the investigation." The driver, a 43-year-old man, was arrested at the scene by a passerby. A knife was found by police and seized from inside the Toyota.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he had spoken with Victorian Premier Ben Carroll and had been briefed by AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett. "It is too early in this investigation for me to provide you with details of what the motivation is behind this attack," Mr Albanese said. He confirmed that members from the Australian Federal Police and spy agency ASIO had begun investigations alongside state authorities, with the joint counter-terrorism unit involved.
Premier Ben Carroll said he was "deeply appalled by this violent attack" on Dr Haines. "My thoughts, and the thoughts of all Victorians, are with Helen, her family, her friends, her colleagues and her community," he said.
Local politicians expressed shock and support. Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy said he was "deeply saddened and horrified" and called Haines "a proud representative of our community and above all, a decent human being who does not deserve this." One Nation MP David Farley, who represents the neighbouring seat of Farrer, said he had met with Dr Haines recently and described her as "the best of all of us, a great representative, tenacious politician and an authentic Australian."
Senator Pauline Hanson said violence against any elected representative is never acceptable. "Members of parliament and their staff must be able to serve their communities without fearing for their safety," she said.
Rural City of Wangaratta mayor Irene Grant said Haines is "an important, deeply valued member of our community."
Dr Haines' office released a statement saying, "This afternoon, our beloved Helen was involved in an incident outside her Wangaratta electorate office, and is receiving medical care." They thanked bystanders and health workers, and asked for privacy. No further comment was made.
The incident occurred two days after Dr Haines helped launch the campaign of independent candidate for Benambra Lachie McKeeman in Baranduda on Saturday.