Australian politicians pay tribute to wounded lawmaker
Surgeons were forced to amputate both of Helen Haines' legs in an effort to save her after she was struck by a car outside her office a week ago.
Australian lawmakers paid solemn tribute to Helen Haines on Monday, following her serious but stable condition after being struck by a vehicle in Wangaratta. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, alongside fellow parliamentarians, mourned the loss of a "beacon of decency" and colleague who campaigned against corruption and climate change.
The alleged attack on Haines has sparked reflection in a country where political violence is uncommon. The shock of the incident is likened to a "stone in our hearts" by Albanese, who emphasized Haines' empathy and kindness. The deputy prime minister, Richard Marles, described her as a "beacon of decency."
Haines, a 49-year-old independent lawmaker, remains in a Melbourne hospital, with surgeons having amputated both her legs to save her life. Her attacker, 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday, charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and harming a public official.
The maximum penalty for the latter offense is ten years in prison. Nugent's motive remains unknown, and authorities are examining various leads, including the possibility of radical anti-government views. Police have noted a surge in threats against Australian lawmakers in recent years, with 1,067 incidents reported in 2025 alone.
Federal Police Chief Krissy Barrett stated that there is a correlation between intense political rhetoric and threats against lawmakers, highlighting the impact of words.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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