Anthony Albanese has revealed that the driver who allegedly struck independent MP Helen Haines in her Victorian electorate had performed a U-turn just moments before the incident.
A 43-year-old driver of the 4WD which allegedly struck her about 3.35pm on Monday has been arrested as part of a major police investigation which includes members of the State’s joint counter-terrorism team.
In a media blitz on Tuesday morning the Prime Minister said Dr Haines remains in a critical condition after what he labelled a “violent attack”.
“This violent attack is not who we are,” he told News24.
“It’s very clear from the reports that this was a deliberate act.”
Australian Federal Police, ASIO, Victorian Police and the state’s joint-counter terrorism team are investigating the incident but the motive remains unknown.
The PM said he would be briefed later this morning.
“Now the motivation is not clear at this point in time but it is clear that this wasn’t just an accident,” he told Sunrise.
“This was an attempt to harm Helen Haines in Wangaratta, outside of her electorate office.
“The reports from eyewitnesses are that the car that struck Haines did a U-turn and therefore that’s why this wasn’t... something with a car, just going off the road.
“This is something that is very clear was aimed at causing harm to Helen. There are other details (but) that’s up to the police to make public.”
“So Police will no doubt continue to interview the suspect in this case and come to a determination.”
Well wishes for Dr Haines recovery has poured in from across parliament including One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, Opposition leader Angus Taylor, Nationals leader Matt Canavan and Greens leader David Shoebridge.
“This is a tragic event and we just hope and pray for a speedy recovery for Helen,” the PM said, who revealed he’d spoken to her husband Phil overnight.