Helen Haines’ Alleged Attacker Appears in Court Wearing Shorts

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has renewed his appeal for civility in Australian politics while defending Prime Minister Anthony Albanese over reports of a “dirt file” targeting independent MP Helen Haines.

The Indi MP lost a leg and remains in a critical condition after Brendan Nugent, 43, allegedly struck her with a Toyota LandCruiser outside her Wangaratta office in north-east Victoria on Monday afternoon. Police allege he reversed before driving into her a second time.

The alleged attack has shocked Australia. In its aftermath, Albanese urged politicians and the public to lower the political temperature, praising Haines’ integrity and cautioning against unjustified claims about the motives of elected representatives.

The Daily Mail has since reported that the Prime Minister’s office recently circulated a “dirt sheet” to journalists. The material reportedly raised questions about Haines’ integrity after she criticised a $6 million government grant for Albanese’s local golf course in Marrickville, in Sydney’s inner west. The claims about Haines were baseless, according to the report.

Asked about the alleged dossier during an appearance on Channel Nine’s Today program on Wednesday, Marles voiced his support for Albanese.

“I don’t think it’s about pointing fingers,” he said.

“What it is about is all of us taking responsibility for the way we engage in public discourse.

“I believe the Prime Minister conducts himself with grace when he takes part in public debate.

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“That is one of the things I admire about Anthony Albanese. Anyone who watches how he discusses issues, his colleagues and politics can see that he approaches those conversations in a measured way.

“He does so in a sensible, considered and, I think, graceful way.”

Marles urged parliamentarians across the political divide to follow Albanese’s example and help reduce the intensity of political debate.

“We all need to embrace that and recognise that, although politicians may be opponents, they are also colleagues,” he said. “People can hold different views, but we should acknowledge the sincerity with which they come to their work and try to improve their communities.

“That must be the starting point for the way we participate in public debate.”

Marles described Haines as a “beacon of decency” who represents the robust yet respectful political debate expected from members of parliament.

“Anyone who looks at Helen Haines can see that she is someone who sincerely works every day to represent her community and make life better for its residents,” he said.

“She has always been a picture of grace. The fact that this has happened to her is deeply upsetting. My thoughts, as I have said, are very much with her and her family.”