Federal MPs voice safety concerns after attack on Helen Haines

The recent attack on independent MP Helen Haines outside her regional Victoria office has left federal parliamentarians unsettled about their personal safety. MPs describe a mixed record of security support, with regular assessments reserved for ministers and high-risk members, while many backbenchers receive only occasional or superficial threat reviews, and some have never been offered a residential security check. The Australian Federal Police Association, led by Alex Caruana, is calling for private home-security contracts to be brought under one outlet control, arguing that consistency and expertise are lacking.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke reported more than 1,000 threats to politicians in the latest financial year, and every MP interviewed said they had received death threats, some leading to legal action. Minister for Women Katy Gallagher confirmed colleagues have expressed genuine fear, and senior security officials plan to brief MPs on the evolving threat environment. Critics warn that cost-cutting may have compromised safety, and some MPs feel forced to fund their own protective measures.