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WA politicians speak out about increasingly hostile environment in wake of Helen Haines attack

Whitby said abusive online rhetoric can lead to real-world violence after Helen Haines was hit by a car in what police believe was a targeted attack.

  • On Monday, Independent MP Helen Haines was critically injured in a vehicle attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria. Counter-terrorism police are investigating with a 43-year-old man in custody.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated calls to "turn down the heat" of public debate, citing a disturbing escalation in threats against Australian politicians linked to vitriolic online discourse.
  • Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain revealed she was "issued with additional personal security alarms" due to threats. Liberal MP Andrew Hastie recently received major security upgrades to his home and office.
  • Police Minister Reece Whitby lamented the decline of "civility" in online debate, while Nationals MP Lachlan Hunter called for an audit of security measures at Parliament House and electorate offices.
  • Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Jessica Stojkovski noted female MPs are disproportionately targeted by online threats. As Lucy Turnbull observed, "all violence against women begins with disrespect.
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Sydney Morning Herald broke the news in North Sydney, Australia on Monday, October 19, 2026.
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