Independent Australian MP Helen Haines, 65, was struck by a vehicle outside her office in the town of Wangaratta, in the state of Victoria.
According to Australian media reports, the politician is in a critical, life-threatening condition and has had one of her legs amputated.
The incident was confirmed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who said the MP had been taken to hospital. Police have arrested a 43-year-old man suspected of being involved in the incident.
According to preliminary information, the driver initially passed the 65-year-old woman, then turned around and struck her, trapping her underneath the vehicle.
Victoria Police said the vehicle involved was a white Toyota LandCruiser. The incident occurred at around 3:35 p.m. outside an office on Murphy Street.
The suspect, a resident of Tarrawingee, approximately 10 kilometres from Wangaratta, was stopped by a bystander after getting out of the vehicle. A knife was also found inside the car during a search.
Authorities are investigating whether the collision was deliberate. The motive remains unclear, and police have not confirmed whether the MP and the arrested man knew each other.
Given the severity of her condition, Helen Haines is expected to be airlifted to Melbourne for further medical treatment.
Helen Haines has represented the federal electorate of Indi, in northeastern Victoria, since 2019.
