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.
8 Articles
8 Articles
'I'm tired of it': WA minister reveals extent of online abuse after attack on MP
WA politicians voice concerns about an increasingly hostile political landscape, and the limited options available to address it, after the attack on federal MP Helen Haines.
‘Strikes at heart of democracy’: Qld politicians unite behind MP hit by 4WD
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli says he is concerned about the political climate and was deeply saddened by the attack on Victorian MP Helen Haines, as politicians unite in their support for her.
Helen Haines attack must be a turning point for Australia
The attack on the Indi MP, if confirmed as a politically motivated attack, must be a line in the sand.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 75% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium












