Victoria
MPs pause parliament for Helen Haines as cockatoo fills empty seat
Federal parliament suspended business to support attacked Victorian MP Helen Haines, while an orange cockatoo sat in her empty seat.
The House of Representatives has suspended its scheduled business to deliver messages of solidarity and support for Victorian Independent MP Helen Haines following an attack.
According to a wire report, the sombre proceedings in the Canberra chamber were marked by a highly unusual and poignant sight. An orange cockatoo was seen perched directly in Dr Haines's empty seat in the House of Representatives as federal politicians rose to speak.
The suspension of normal parliamentary proceedings allowed members from all political sides to offer their formal messages of support to the member for Indi. During the speeches, MPs were urged to "let light win" in the wake of the incident.
At this stage, precise details regarding the attack on Dr Haines remain unconfirmed. The wire report did not disclose the location, timing, or specific nature of the assault, and it remains unclear whether the Victorian MP sustained injuries or where she is currently recovering. Her office has yet to release a detailed statement outlining the circumstances of the event.
The orange cockatoo, sitting quietly in her vacant green leather seat, provided a striking visual symbol for those present in the gallery and on the chamber floor. The colour orange has long been associated with Dr Haines's independent campaign movement in her electorate of Indi, which spans north-eastern Victoria.
The gesture of pausing national parliamentary business underscores the gravity with which federal politicians are treating the incident, reflecting growing concerns over the safety of public officials.
The public will be watching for further updates on Dr Haines's well-being and any official statements from law enforcement or her electorate office regarding the incident.
This report draws on original reporting by Wire report.
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