Haines thanks rescuers after losing both legs in Wangaratta
Federal parliament was told that the Indi MP asked about her staff's safety before thanking doctors and nurses.
By Nadia Almasi ·
Allegra Spender, the member for Wentworth, told the federal chamber on Monday that Helen Haines used her first conscious moments to check on her team. Spender relayed details shared by Haines's husband, Phil, stating that the Indi MP asked whether her staff were safe immediately after waking from the alleged attack last week.
Haines is in a serious but stable condition after losing both legs in the incident outside her electorate office in Wangaratta. A 43-year-old man has been charged, and police continue their investigation. Spender noted that Haines also expressed gratitude to the bystanders who assisted her, as well as to the doctors, nurses, and first responders on the scene.
"That exactly speaks to the character of who you are," Spender said. She added that Haines was recognized not only for her empathy but also as a force for change.
The House of Representatives filled with tributes on Monday. Members wore baby's breath flowers and orange heart lapel pins. An orange cockatoo, a symbol of Haines's local campaign, sat at her seat. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Haines as a fighter and said the shock was like a stone in their hearts. He warned against dismissing a very real rise in anger in public life, citing social media anonymity as a driver of aggression toward service workers and public officials.
The incident has sparked debate over the safety of politicians. Opposition leader Angus Taylor and One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce both rejected calls to alter parliamentary practice to cool the national debate. Taylor stated that the Westminster system exists to settle differences through rigorous argument. He argued that those who turn to violence cross a line that must never be crossed and suggested judges should come down harder on those convicted of intimidation.
Joyce told News24 that his thoughts were with Haines and her family, describing the event as so unAustralian. He called it foolish to believe that changing question time would solve the country's problems. MPs are being encouraged to sign a civility pledge this week, committing to honesty, respect, and compassion. Speaker Milton Dick said he looked forward to the day he could give the call to the member for Indi again.
Source: The Guardian
