Helen Haines, 65, is the independent federal representative for Indi, a north-east Victorian electorate that stretches up to Wodonga near the NSW border.
Before entering parliament, Haines had a decades-long career in healthcare. She worked as a nurse, midwife and health researcher, publishing dozens of academic articles. She grew up on a dairy farm in Eurack, in south-western Victoria, and has been married to her husband, Phil Haines, since 1986. The couple have raised three children and live on a beef farm outside Wangaratta.
Haines’ political career began when she was elected as an independent in the 2019 election. Her predecessor in the seat, Cathy McGowan won Indi from the Coalition with the backing of grassroots campaigners in 2013. It had been safely held by conservative parties for the previous 80 years.
Haines was endorsed by McGowan to run as the local MP. She was the first independent to succeed another independent in federal parliament, and has held Indi on an 8 per cent margin in the two elections since.
Haines has advocated for climate change action and regional services, particularly healthcare. She has also been a strong advocate for integrity and transparency in politics, and was instrumental in campaigning for a national anti-corruption body.
Haines is a widely respected member of parliament. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described her as incredibly hardworking.