Australian MPs call for civility and security measures after attack on Helen Haines
Following the alleged vehicle attack on independent MP Helen Haines, parliamentarians urged greater civility, pledged to sign a civility pledge, and discussed heightened security threats to politicians.
Independent MP Zali Steggall told ABC that more civility and respect are needed in political discourse, noting that social-media abuse and threats have become commonplace and that an incident reported to the AFP led to a charge against a perpetrator outside her electorate.
Liberal MP Dan Tehan said security inside Parliament House is "pretty good" after recent upgrades, but warned that the greatest vulnerability lies when politicians are working in their communities. He also criticised anonymous online accounts, stating, "The problem we’ve got at the moment is the anonymous voices online. I’m a big believer in freedom of speech … but you have to put your name to your words."
Cabinet minister Mark Butler told ABC Radio National that threats against MPs, their families and staff have "changed dramatically" over his 20-year career, and that federal police have been responsive to security requests.
Speaker of the House Milton Dick will invite members to sign a "civility pledge" after Helen Haines became the first MP to do so. Independent MP Kate Chaney said the pledge is a simple way to honour Haines' contribution and to commit to honesty, respect and compassion.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is scheduled to deliver a speech reflecting on the alleged assault on Haines, who remains hospitalized after being struck by a vehicle and losing both legs. Fellow independent MP Monique Ryan described Haines as "the parliament’s most gentle, principled and kind" member and urged colleagues to uphold her standards.
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson defended her party’s cartoon series, stating it "has nothing to do with the tragic attack on Helen Haines" and accusing major parties of seeking censorship.