Labor has described Payman's linking of a Haines-style attack to staffing allocation as outrageous. Payman has asked whether the Prime Minister is waiting for what happened to Helen Haines to happen again. Shoebridge has called for ethical Australian AI after a cyber threat warning. Lambie says Hanson has not personally apologised over a cartoon. A former Rio Tinto boss is set to lead a defence procurement watchdog, and the Farrer independent spent $1.7 million on a byelection campaign.
Community members from Colac and the surrounding district turned Memorial Square purple for the second annual Walk for Respect against family violence. The event was held on October 27, 2026.
Moorabool Shire Council is taking part in the Biscuit Tin project, which aims to raise awareness of the contributions of women aged 65 and over. The council is seeking 10 to 12 women willing to share their stories and have their photographs taken. A Recipes for Respect resource will be launched during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence, running from 25 November to 10 December. A workshop facilitated by Celebrate Ageing on 29 October 2026 will discuss how respect is shown and how older women are portrayed in popular culture.
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Academics Daniel Heller and Farid Zaid, who co-direct the Monash University Brave Conversations Project, say emotion plays a large part in conflict and that people can pause before responding. Governor-General Sam Mostyn, a close friend of Helen Haines, urged Australians to debate with greater civility, saying words matter. Scanlon Foundation Research Institute CEO Anthea Hancocks said many people find disagreeing well hard. The experts recommend asking open questions to understand other views, and say a good disagreement leaves both people feeling taken seriously.
Independent MP Helen Haines lost both legs after an alleged attack in which she was reportedly rammed by a four-wheel drive outside her Wangaratta electorate office on Monday. Her husband said she is critical but stable. Governor-General Sam Mostyn called for Australians to lower the temperature in political debate, particularly towards women. Haines described attacks on women in public life as unique and pernicious. Minister for Women Katy Gallagher said threats against women in power had risen over recent years.
South Gippsland Shire councillor Sarah Gilligan has called for change in political tone following the attack on Indi MP Dr Helen Haines. Gilligan said words are weapons and that women in politics should not have to weigh their safety when choosing their battles. She criticised groups of people who make accusations against councils and social media abuse. Other councillors and Mayor Nathan Hersey also voiced support, while Bass Coast Shire Mayor Brett Tessari sent wishes for Haines's recovery. A motive has not been outlined for the man accused of deliberately targeting Haines with his vehicle.
Ballarat Mayor Tracey Hargreaves has expressed concern about a distressing incident involving Independent federal MP Helen Haines in Wangaratta. Hargreaves said everyone in public office deserves to be safe while doing their job. She said there is never a place for violence, harassment, threats or intimidation, including online. Hargreaves also said every woman deserves to live free from violence and fear, and extended her support to Haines.
Cristiano Ronaldo has honoured Lionel Messi's retirement from international football with a heartfelt message. Messi concluded his Argentina career with a 3-0 victory over Benin, scoring one goal and providing two assists. Ronaldo praised Messi's achievements on Instagram, saying, 'All my respect for what you have achieved with Argentina.' The two players have had contrasting international career endings, with Messi winning the World Cup Silver Ball and Ronaldo facing controversy over his recent departure from Portugal's training camp.
The Ballarat community is invited to create artworks for an exhibition exploring the theme 'Respect Is...' as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. The exhibition, organised by a collective of local organisations, encourages residents to submit 20cm x 20cm artworks reflecting on respect. The exhibition will be displayed at Ballarat Central Library from 25 November to 10 December, with submissions closing on 30 October. Organisers hope the exhibition will foster community reflection on respect and gender-based violence prevention.
The Reclaim the Night march in Lismore will take place this Thursday, continuing a local tradition since 1988. The event, held at The Quad from 6pm to 8pm, advocates for a society free from violence and harassment against women. Keynote speaker Madeleine West will be joined by local advocates Beth Hamilton and Marnie Davis. The march aims to unite the community, honour victims, and promote respectful, safer environments. Participants of all backgrounds are encouraged to attend.
