Liberal frontbencher James Paterson says he fears the attack on federal independent MP and fellow Victorian Helen Haines could ramp up tensions in their home state’s upcoming election.
Dr Haines remains in critical condition after being struck by a four-wheel drive on Monday.
A 43-year-old man has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury and causing harm to a commonwealth public official.
The incident has spurred calls from across politics to cool the temperature, with several MPs telling NewsWire they were concerned about their safety.
Senator Paterson said on Wednesday voting centres “will be a focal point for people who are angry and frustrated” when Victorians head to the polls on November 28.
“I think political parties need to take a leadership role here and make sure that they conduct themselves in a way that contributes to a healthy democratic contest,” he told ABC’s Radio National.
“Of course, we can be highly critical of other political parties and their policies, and the conduct of their MPs in public office, the decisions they make.
“We would never want to live in a democracy where you can’t do that, but I think we should be careful about the personalisation of attacks going too far and leading to more tragedies.”
It comes after Labor’s state director warned staff not to campaign alone, urging “workers and volunteers to remain alert to potential safety risks throughout the campaign”.
“Whether you are doorknocking, at a train station or a polling booth, I ask that you please attend in pairs at a minimum,” he said.
“Ideally, please campaign in teams of three or greater.”
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll said on Tuesday state authorities were having a “live conversation” about boosting safety at voting centres.
Coalition leads Labor government in Victorian election polls
The Coalition is leading the polls in Victoria after a tumultuous 12 years under Labor.
One Nation has also gained on Labor as a close third, with just a five percentage point gap in their primary votes, according to the latest Demos results.
Federal One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce said he agreed with calls to “turn the heat down” but said it should not stop voters speaking frankly.
He went on to say Victoria was run by the “most hopeless government in the history of Australia”, branding it a “dishevelled disaster”.
“This socialist government of Victoria is hopeless, pathetic,” Mr Joyce told News24.