Independent federal MP Helen Haines is in hospital with critical injuries after being struck by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria, on Monday afternoon. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed a suspect is in custody and said a joint counterterrorism team had been activated, though police say the motive is not yet known.
person
Anthony Albanese
Prime Minister of Australia since 2022
Indi MP Helen Haines is in a critical condition in hospital after being struck by a four-wheel-drive outside her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. The incident, which occurred around 3.35pm, has drawn the involvement of the Australian Federal Police, ASIO, and the joint counter-terrorism unit, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese describing it as an 'attack'. Police have arrested a 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee at the scene and located a knife inside his vehicle.
A revolt against the Albanese government's decision to cut $2 million a year in funding for Ask Izzy, a free online directory helping Australians find food, housing and emergency assistance, has escalated dramatically, with almost 200 charities and community organisations now demanding a reversal and more than 2000 citizens contacting politicians.