Hospital Reports Haines in Serious but Stable Condition

The hospital treating federal MP Helen Haines reported Saturday morning that her medical status has moved to serious but stable, days after surgeons amputated both of her legs. Haines, who represents the seat of Indi, was struck by a car near her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. Surgeons first attempted to save her right leg, but the extent of the injuries required amputation of both.

A spokesperson for The Alfred in Melbourne confirmed the update in a statement on Saturday morning. Haines's condition had previously been described as critical but stable.

Her husband, Phil Haines, spoke outside the hospital on Wednesday about her recovery. He said "both her heart and her mind are in good shape." He described his wife as "a very compassionate, caring, loving person" and said she has "the sharpest intellect."

Police charged Brendan Nugent, 43, of nearby Tarrawingee, on Tuesday with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and the commonwealth offence of causing harm to a commonwealth public official. Court documents show Nugent faces two further counts for cultivating and possessing cannabis. He appeared at Wangaratta magistrates court on Wednesday and did not apply for bail.

Haines's staff said in a Friday social media post that they hope to reopen her electorate offices next Thursday. The post noted that many staff members witnessed Monday's incident and some were among the first to help her. "As Helen takes the time she needs to recover, we will take time to look after ourselves and one another, too," the post said.

The alleged attack has prompted discussion across Australian politics about security risks facing members of parliament. In Western Australia, police charged a 56-year-old man who allegedly threatened staff and wielded nunchucks at the electoral office of state local government minister Hannah Beazley days after the incident involving Haines.

Donations for the incident have exceeded $730,000 for Save the Children in Haines's honour, raised after her husband encouraged contributions to the charity's appeal. A community vigil for Haines drew residents to Wodonga on Wednesday evening. Her predecessor as member for Indi, Cathy McGowan, said at the vigil that the community was dealing with "mixed emotions."