Australian lawmaker hurt in car attack underwent surgery overnight

Australian independent lawmaker Helen Haines suffered serious injuries in a car attack outside her office in Wangaratta, New South Wales. The 65-year-old was struck deliberately while retrieving items from her car trunk. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the attack on Tuesday, describing it as a "test of our character" and an outpouring of support for Haines.

Haines remains in a critical condition at Melbourne's Alfred Hospital, having undergone surgery overnight. Witnesses reported seeing a woman pinned between two vehicles and a driver making a U-turn after passing her. The 43-year-old male driver was initially detained by civilians and later arrested by police. A knife was found in his vehicle, and he is known to authorities.

Police are continuing their investigation to determine the motive behind the attack. Australian media reported that the driver had a history with law enforcement. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with opposition leader Angus Taylor calling it a "shocking day for our nation" and Senator Pauline Hanson stating that violence against elected representatives is never acceptable in Australia.