Australian MP hit by car in "deliberate attack

A car hit Australian independent lawmaker Helen Haines,

critically injuring her in an apparent deliberate attack,

according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, adding

the suspect is in custody.

Albanese said "Helen Haines is incredibly hard working. She is fiercely intelligent,

but most importantly, she's just a thoroughly decent human being,

full of integrity and respected right across the Parliament

and from everyone who comes into contact with her."

"She is a well loved member of her community,

and this will come as an incredible shock to that community.

Our thoughts remain with Helen Haines at this very difficult time."

Haines was struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser outside her

electroal district office mid afternoon in the city

of Wangaratta in Victoria.

Albanese said the national counterterrorism team,

incorporating police and intelligence agencies,

was investigating.

The 43 year-old driver was detained by civilians at the scene.