The Australian Federal Police commissioner has criticized a heightened political climate marked by increasing threats against lawmakers, with charges filed weekly in recent cases. Victoria has introduced new measures to safeguard politicians amid rising concerns over intimidation and abuse. Authorities confirmed they had no prior warning about the alleged vehicle attack targeting an independent member, though investigations into the incident remain ongoing. The statement underscores broader tensions in political discourse and law enforcement’s response to escalating risks.
AFP commissioner says MPs are generally concerned about growing volume of abuse and intimidationFollow our live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe head of the Australian federal police has condemned a “febrile” political environment that has seen one person charged every week over the alleged threatening of MPs, as Victoria announces new steps to protect politicians.But the AFP and Victoria police insist they had no intelligence to suggest 43-year-old Brendan Nugent would go on to allegedly drive a Toyota LandCruiser into the independent MP Helen Haines in a targeted attack. Continue reading...
