Wangaratta Attack: Haines checks on staff before medical care

Helen Haines, the member for Indi, asked about the safety of her staff upon waking from an alleged attack, federal parliament was told on Monday. Allegra Spender, the member for Wentworth, reported that Haines’s husband, Phil Haines, provided these details to colleagues.

Spender stated that Haines expressed gratitude to the bystanders who assisted her outside her electorate office in Wangaratta. She also thanked the doctors, nurses, and first responders who treated her. The incident resulted in Haines losing both legs.

Haines remains in a serious but stable condition. A 43-year-old man has been charged in connection with the alleged attack, and investigators continue their inquiry into the events.

Spender described Haines’s reaction as evidence of her character. She noted that while many praised Haines’s empathy, she was also a force for change in the chamber.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the House, calling Haines a fighter. He described the shock of the news as a stone in the hearts of the nation. Albanese warned against ignoring a rise in anger in public life, citing social media anonymity and speed as drivers of aggression toward workers in hospitality, retail, education, and healthcare.

Opposition leader Angus Taylor and One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce rejected proposals to alter parliamentary practices to cool the national debate. Taylor argued that the Westminster system settles differences through rigorous argument and that violence crosses a line that must never be crossed. He suggested judges should come down harder on those convicted of intimidation. Joyce described the attack as unAustralian and called it foolish to believe changing question time would solve the problem.

Speaker Milton Dick said all members were praying for Haines’s recovery. MPs wore baby's breath flowers and orange heart lapel pins in tribute. An orange cockatoo, a symbol of Haines’s local campaign, was placed at her empty seat. Members are encouraged to sign a civility pledge committing to honesty, respect, and compassion this week.