Australian independent lawmaker Helen Haines is in critical condition following a vehicle collision outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria, prompting an investigation involving counter-terrorism authorities.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the incident on Monday, describing it as an attack, although investigators have yet to determine whether the collision was deliberate or establish a motive.

Victoria Police said a 43-year-old man was arrested at the scene after a white Toyota Land Cruiser struck Haines at about 3:35 p.m. local time. A knife was later found inside the vehicle, while authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether the suspect had any prior connection to the lawmaker.

Newsweek reported that the suspect was known to police, citing Australia’s public broadcaster, ABC News, which also reported that he would undergo a mental health assessment.

The incident has renewed concerns among Australian political leaders about violence directed at elected officials. Opposition leader Angus Taylor condemned the development, saying such attacks must not become normalised, while Senator Pauline Hanson stressed that parliamentarians and their staff should be able to serve their communities without fear.

Haines, 65, has represented the federal electorate of Indi since 2019. A former nurse, midwife and public health researcher, she won a third term in the May 2025 federal election and was involved in the establishment of Australia’s National Anti-Corruption Commission.