# Attack on Australian MP Haines: Why threats against lawmakers have surged

https://mins.news/en/item/109233

- Al Jazeera, 2026-10-21 09:24 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/10/21/attack-on-australian-mp-haines-how-threats-against-legislators-have-soared?traffic_source=rss

> Independent Australian MP Helen Haines had both legs amputated after being hit by a car outside her office in Wangaratta. Police called it a targeted attack and said abuse, threats and intimidation against lawmakers are rising. Brendan Nugent has been charged and remains in custody.

## Related coverage

- ['Targeted' attack on much-loved MP leaves Australian town heartbroken](https://mins.news/en/item/109947) — BBC News, 2026-10-21
- [Australian MP Helen Haines loses both legs after car-ramming attack; suspect appears in court](https://mins.news/en/video/109761) — Al Jazeera English, 2026-10-21
- [Australian lawmaker Helen Haines loses both legs after alleged car attack; suspect appears in court](https://mins.news/en/item/109284) — CBC News, 2026-10-21
- [Helen Haines loses both legs after alleged attack; husband says she is stable](https://mins.news/en/item/109017) — The Guardian, 2026-10-21