Helen Haines vigil sparks calls for greater safety for women in politics – video

Hundreds of community members gathered in Wodonga on Wednesday night to show their support for the independent MP Helen Haines after Monday's alleged attack, with many expressing shock and asking: 'Why Helen?' Attendees praised Haines for her compassion, support for young people and ability to bring people together across political divides. One community member said Haines was reasonable, fair and considerate and 'listened to everybody'. The former independent MP Cathy McGowan called for greater safety in politics, particularly for women in rural communities, insisting 'we can’t let that violence win'

• I spent a week watching Helen Haines in action in Canberra. It was the most inspiring week of my life

• Labor, Coalition and crossbench MPs afraid at home and work after alleged attack on Helen Haines

• Helen Haines has lost both legs but ‘heart and mind are in good shape’, husband says – video