Australian MPs spending thousands on security after Helen Haines attack
Federal politicians are spending thousands to upgrade security after an alleged attack on MP Helen Haines.
Federal politicians are paying thousands from their own pockets to add security features. Following an alleged attack on independent MP Helen Haines, the Australian Federal Police and ASIO gave them safety briefings on home and office security.
Haines lost both her legs on Monday. Federal ministers get strong security help.
But many backbenchers said they didn't have enough support. Some have installed cameras and floodlights.
They also made other security upgrades. The officials didn't recommend these in risk assessments.
Reports of harassment and threats against office holders went up. Two years ago there were 951 reports.
Last year there were 1,067. Several MPs want more security support.
But they questioned how much more the AFP could realistically provide.
- Lost both legs
- Haines injury
- 951
- Harassment reports 2 years ago
- 1,067
- Harassment reports last year
- Thousands of dollars own money
- Security spending by MPs
Why it mattersPoliticians facing serious threats raise a key question. Can Australian democracy work if MPs don't feel safe in their own communities?
AustraliaHigh: Australian MPs from all parties are spending personal money on security and expressing alarm about rising threats, signalling a deterioration in the safety of federal politics.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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