Australia's federal police commissioner has linked heated political rhetoric directly to threats and abuse aimed at politicians. Independent MP Helen Haines was allegedly run down by a four-wheel-drive outside her Wangaratta electoral office on Monday, and both her legs were amputated. She remains in a serious but stable condition in Melbourne. Commissioner Krissy Barrett said the daily threat reports are often pages long and that women MPs are more often targeted with threats of sexual violence. Federal MPs say they are weighing personal security against contact with voters.
Brendan Nugent, 43, has been charged over an alleged deliberate attack on independent MP Helen Haines outside her Wangaratta office. Police have not ruled out further charges, including attempted murder. Haines remains in a critical but stable condition after emergency surgery. In court, Nugent's lawyer said he has a neurological condition and raised concerns about his mental health. Nugent was remanded in custody, and federal police say establishing a motive is the investigation's first priority.