A 43-year-old man has been charged after Australian independent Member of Parliament Helen Haines was hit by a car in Victoria state on Monday, leaving her in critical condition.

The suspect is due to appear in court on Wednesday to face charges including dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and the federal offense of causing harm to a public official. Local media have identified the alleged attacker as environmental activist Brendan Nugent.

Haines, 65, the independent member for Indi, was struck twice by a car outside her office in Wangaratta. Witnesses reported the driver performed a U-turn before hitting her and then reversing to strike her again. She was pinned between two vehicles and has reportedly lost one leg, with doctors working to save the other.

The suspect's father, Rod Nugent, and his partner Christine Cunningham, stated they had been friends with Ms. Haines for over two decades. They expressed their shock and offered their full cooperation with the investigation, emphasizing their love and thoughts are with Ms. Haines and her family.

Victoria Police indicated that the incident appears to have been targeted. A highway patrol unit was reportedly on the scene within eight seconds of the initial call. Officers later searched a property in Tarrawingee, near Wangaratta.

Bystanders rushed to assist Ms. Haines after the alleged attack. Local barber Ricky Jefferies described pulling the suspect from his car and disarming him, stating he felt compelled to intervene. He noted the car remained on and in motion as others approached.

Authorities have stated that at this stage, the incident appears isolated, with no other known threats connected to the matter. Police presence will be maintained in the area.

Ms. Haines is a respected figure in her local community, and the incident has sent shockwaves through the region. The attack occurs amidst rising concerns about the safety of politicians in Australia.