Australians to light candles for critically injured Helen Haines

Australians are preparing to light candles to show their support for independent MP Helen Haines, four days after she was struck by a car outside her electorate office in Victoria's north-east.

The movement, which has been shared widely on social media, invites people to light a candle at 8pm AEDT as a gesture of community peace and solidarity.

"At times like these, what unites us matters far more than what divides us," the Rural City of Wangaratta said in a statement.

The Wangaratta Beacon, an old water tower which has been repurposed for art installations in recent years, is being lit up in amber as part of the movement.

Haines staff 'overwhelmed' by gestures of kindness

This afternoon the Alfred hospital confirmed Ms Haines, 65, remained in a critical condition.

Earlier this week the Indi MP's husband, Phil, revealed both of his wife's legs had been amputated due to her injuries.

The attack on the MP has triggered an outpouring of grief and emotion in her rural community, with several constituents sharing stories of her providing support and inspiration.

Ms Haines's office said in a statement they hoped to reopen her Murphy Street office next Thursday.

"We want to thank everyone who has reached out with messages of love and support for Helen and her family," the statement said.

"Our team has been overwhelmed by the kindness shown by the Indi community and people right across Australia and internationally.

"What happened on Monday has deeply affected Helen’s family and all of her staff. Many of us witnessed the attack and some were among the first to come to her aid.

"As Helen takes the time she needs to recover, we will take time to look after ourselves and one another, too.

Healing will take time, and we ask for your understanding as we navigate the days and weeks ahead."

Ms Haines suffered critical injuries in Monday's crash, which police allege was a deliberate attack by 43-year-old Tarrawingee man Brendan Nugent.

Mr Nugent appeared before Wangaratta Magistrates' Court earlier this week and has been transferred to Melbourne in custody ahead of a hearing in February.

This morning Victoria's police chief confirmed a reported rift between Mr Nugent and his family was one line of inquiry for detectives.