Geelong and the Surf Coast’s members of parliament have rallied in support of MP Helen Haines.
Haines, the federal independent member for Indi, remains in a critical condition in hospital after she was it by a car outside her electorate office in Wangaratta.
A man has been arrested after he was detained by members of the public, and remains in custody.
Prime minister Anthony Albanese has referred to the incident as an attack.
Deputy prime minister and member for Corio Richard Marles said Haines was one of the most respected members of parliament.
“Helen is a beacon of decency in our Parliament and every day she represents the very best of what it is to be a local member – representing Australians,” he said in a social media post.
“We are all thinking of Helen, her family and staff, as we wish for her speedy recovery.”
Member for Corangamite Libby Coker sharing the thoughts of the prime minister, while Wannon MP Dan Tehan said there is no place for violence in democracy.
Member for Geelong Christine Couzens also expressed her shock.
“I am shocked and disgusted by another horrific senseless attack on a woman,” she said.
“My thoughts are with Helen Haines, her family, staff and her community.”
