The frightening threats becoming part of political life in Australia

Key points

• Australian politicians say threats against them have become routine, with police now laying charges almost weekly. Following an alleged attack on Indi MP Helen Haines, whose motive remains unknown, MPs have described rape threats, intimidation and stalking.
• The Australian Federal Police have offered safety briefings, advising MPs to vary daily routines and share diaries. Police charged 41 people over threats against parliamentarians in the past year.
• Several MPs say state politicians receive less support than federal ones.