The Australian Council of Social Service sends its love and deepest concern to Dr Helen Haines MP, her family and loved ones following the shocking attack outside her electorate office in Wangaratta on Monday.

Dr Haines is an extraordinarily decent and committed representative, for her community and for the nation as a whole. She has consistently supported her local community to have a voice and stood up for people with the least power, including people in low incomes, people seeking asylum and migrants and so many others.

We send all our support and thoughts of care to Dr Haines, her family, her staff and the community of Indi.

Violence has no place in Australian society. Elected representatives must be able to engage with their communities safely, without being subject to abuse, intimidation or violence.