Australian officials warn of rising threats to politicians after MP Helen Haines injured
Experts and officials say a surge in harassment and violent threats against Australian public figures has created a climate of fear, highlighted by the recent car incident involving Independent MP Helen Haines.
Independent MP Helen Haines was seriously injured when a car struck her outside her office in Wangaratta, Victoria. Police arrested a 43-year-old man at the scene and recovered a knife, but have not confirmed whether the collision was intentional. Federal police, including a counter-terrorism unit, are assisting the state investigation.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed concern about the growing anxiety among parliamentarians, noting that earlier this year he was evacuated from his official residence following a bomb threat and faces multiple ongoing threat cases.
"This wasn't an accident. There was a deliberate act, it would appear," the arrested man told the national broadcaster, although no motive has been established.
Recent years have seen a rise in threats targeting politicians, including mailed bullets, sexual threats against female MPs and their families, a firebombed office of a Jewish MP, and a torched car belonging to a Sydney mayor. Small Business Minister Anne Aly reported receiving a wave of death threats after a rival politician suggested she should be "shamed and stoned in the square" over tax policy.
Government data show 1,067 reports of harassing or threatening behaviour against high-office holders in the year to June, up from the previous year. Josh Roose, a Deakin University professor specializing in violent extremism, said the trend reflects socioeconomic strain, mental-health challenges, and a hostile online environment that has intensified since the pandemic.
"We tend to bury our head in the sand and say, 'Not here', but this has been happening now for well over a decade," Roose told the BBC.
Australia’s intelligence chief, Mike Burgess, warned that politically motivated violence is becoming more likely, likening it to the increased risk of extreme weather due to climate change. Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett added that grievances and feelings of isolation are driving radicalisation.
"They're feeling distanced, they're feeling alone, they're looking for something to attach to, to give them meaning and purpose," Barrett said.
Officials noted that while Australian politicians often interact closely with constituents, the recent incident may prompt a review of security measures to protect public figures.
"Here in Australia, it is a good thing that politicians are able to go about their community and engage with people," Burgess said.