Australian MPs report rise in threats and harassment as violence prompts security review
Federal independent MP Helen Haines was attacked on Monday, raising alarm about threats to politicians' safety.
Helen Haines was attacked outside her Victorian electorate office on Monday, losing both her legs in the incident. The next day, staff at state Labor MP Hannah Beazley's office were threatened.
Rising hostility across parliament has sparked talks about threats to politicians and safety. Energy Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the job is getting harder.
Backbencher Mark Folkard said he is dealing with a stalker. Almost every MP who spoke this week shared similar worries.
Police Commissioner Col Blanch said Western Australia's threats are not as bad as other parts of Australia. But he understood the fear that MPs feel.
The government announced security upgrades for MPs' homes today. It will speed up a review of parliament's security.
Why it mattersThe attacks show a serious threat to how democracy works. If MPs cannot safely meet with the people they represent, the system fails.
AustraliaAustralian politicians are now reassessing their public accessibility and safety protocols, with government funding fresh security upgrades.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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