AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett warns of growing abuse against politicians after Helen Haines’ alleged attack

Key points

• Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett says political language and behaviour directly influences threats against elected representatives. Her comments follow an alleged deliberate attack on Indi MP Helen Haines, who was struck by a vehicle in Wangaratta on Monday and suffered serious injuries.
• Barrett said police are charging almost one offender a week with threatening a parliamentarian or high office holder. She said threats against female politicians are often sexual and more personal.
• Authorities are still investigating the motive, and the matter is before the courts.