It is hard to imagine that, only one week ago today, the member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines, was attacked. This was no ordinary act of violence; this was a reprehensible act of violence that struck at the very heart of Wangaratta, sent shockwaves across our nation and shattered something precious—the belief that Australians can go about their daily lives without fear for their safety. It goes without saying our thoughts are with Helen, her husband, family, friends and staff as they face its consequences. Amid the horror of the attack, we witnessed the very best of Australia. I acknowledge the extraordinary courage of local barber Ricky Jeffries, Jacob Evans, Jacklyn Black and the other bystanders and emergency responders who rushed towards danger to help Helen. In a moment of unimaginable horror, their instinct was not to turn away but to help. Their courage, compassion and selflessness remind us of the very best of the Australian spirit.

Whatever our political differences in this place, every member of this parliament should condemn this attack. No grievance, political belief or personal resentment can justify such violence. For members across this chamber the implications are deeply personal. We are thinking not only about our own safety but also about the safety of our partners, children, families, friends and staff. No-one should be placed at risk simply because they work with, support or seek assistance from an elected representative. Our staff assist Australians through some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable. They should be able to come to work confident that they will return home safely.

This incident also sends a troubling message to anyone considering a future in public life, particularly women. People entering public service should be able to focus on what they can contribute to their communities, not on the possibility of violence directed at them or those they love. We must not allow intimidation to deter capable people from public life or undermine the community engagement on which representative democracy depends. Attending a community fete, holding a pop-up office, speaking at a school, supporting a charity fundraiser and meeting constituents are all important parts of representing an electorate. Listening to people and understanding their needs is what drives me as a representative, and I know the member for Indi shares that same commitment. It is through these connections that deeply connect strong members of parliament to their communities. It would be a profound loss if politicians could no longer engage with their communities directly and meaningfully.

That is why Helen's contribution should be remembered for what it was: years of service to Indi and to Australia. Helen has earned the trust of her community by being accessible, practical and willing to work across political lines when that is what her constituents require. Her advocacy for stronger rural and regional health services, better support for local hospitals and improved access to medical care reflects the qualities Australians expect from their representatives—persistence, compassion, independence and a focus on practical outcomes. Helen's contribution must not be defined by this terrible incident. It should be defined by her service, her advocacy for regional Australians and her commitment to bringing their concerns to this parliament. Helen Haines and her loved ones deserve our compassion, support and recognition of her public service. Australians deserve a democracy in which they can speak freely, participate openly and serve their communities without fear. My staff and I and the people of Capricornia are thinking of you and your family. You have given so much to the people of Indi and to public life in Australia. We hope you recover from this and return to the work you care so deeply about, and we look forward to seeing you back in the chamber.

Australia is strongest when our people stand together. Our love of country gives us common ground, respect gives us understanding and unity gives us strength. Australians may come from different backgrounds and hold different beliefs, but we share a common home, a common future and a collective responsibility to leave Australia stronger, more prosperous and safer for future generations.