Australian PM says attacker's car made U-turn before critically injuring lawmaker

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed that the car involved in the attack on independent lawmaker Helen Haines had executed a U-turn prior to striking her. The incident, which occurred outside Haines' office in Wangaratta on Monday, has been deemed intentional by Albanese. Haines, a former nurse, midwife, and academic, was critically injured and underwent surgery.

Her attacker, a 43-year-old man, was apprehended by authorities, with counter-terrorism agencies among the investigating bodies. Victoria Police and Australian Federal Police are considering charges, including causing harm to a public official, which carries a potential 10-year prison sentence. A bystander, Ricky Jefferies, restrained the attacker and removed a knife from him before the seriousness of the situation became apparent.

The attack, which left Haines in critical condition, is considered rare in Australia, where politicians are often seen in public spaces without extensive security. Albanese expressed concern about the growing division in the country and urged Australians to engage more respectfully with one another. He highlighted a significant increase in threats against politicians over recent years, with 71% of respondents to a recent survey reporting experiencing violence, particularly online.