Fundraiser for MP Severely Injured in Double Car Ramming Nears $1 Million

Australian independent Member of Parliament Helen Haines speaks to journalists in the Press Gallery at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Sept. 8, 2026. Mick Tsikas/AAP Image via AP

A Save the Children fundraiser set up in honour of Victorian independent MP Helen Haines is nearing $1 million in donations just days after she lost both legs after an alleged double car ramming.

Haines, 65, was accessing the boot of her car outside her Wangaratta electorate office on Oct. 19 when it is alleged 43-year-old Brenden Nugent ran into her twice with his Toyota LandCruiser.

Nugent has been charged with multiple offences and remains in police custody, while Haines remains in Melbourne’s The Alfred Hospital, having both legs amputated.

Haines’ husband, Phil, set up a dedicated fundraiser page through Save the Children—a charity which has been close to his wife’s heart.

Save the Children Australia CEO Mat Tinkler said support from the public had been “overwhelming.”

“We will work closely with Helen and her family to ensure that every dollar so generously donated supports vulnerable children in our region and on causes that are close to her heart,” he said in a statement.

Save the Children is listed as a charity that works both locally and globally to provide safety, healthcare, education and protection to children.

Representatives from Haines’ office issued an update on Oct. 23, in which they thanked everyone who had shown support.

“Our team has been overwhelmed by the kindness shown by the Indi community and people right across Australia and internationally,” they said.

“We are deeply moved by the extraordinary generosity of so many people.”

In the statement from her office, Haines’ staffers said they had been left “deeply affected” by what happened.

“Many of us witnessed the incident and some were among the first to come to her aid,” they said.

“As Helen takes the time she needs to recover, we will take time to look after ourselves and one another, too.

“Healing will take time, and we ask for your understanding as we navigate the days and weeks ahead.”

The post was complemented by comments from those who knew Haines.

“I’m sure she’s right proud that out of such a horrible incident, that this money for a cause so close to her heart has been able to be raised in her honour,” local Tanya Trewin said.

“I hope ... it gives her even some small comfort ... I’m sure learning the news of how much has been donated would give her a lift to know how much people care.”

Former staffer Kim York also expressed her thoughts.

“From an ex-staffer to all the staff in Helen’s electorate office, my thoughts and care are with you all, stay strong and take care of each other.”

Haines’ offices in Wangaratta and Wodonga are expected to be reopened by staffers on Oct. 29, with constituents asked to email [email protected] for assistance in Commonwealth matters in the interim.