MP Helen Haines' medical status upgrades after double amputation

Independent federal MP Helen Haines is now in a serious but stable condition, according to The Alfred hospital in Melbourne. The hospital previously described her status as critical but stable. A spokesperson for the facility issued the update on Saturday morning.

Haines, the member for the Victorian seat of Indi, was struck by a car in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. Surgeons attempted to save her right leg initially. Due to the severity of the injuries, medical staff amputated both legs.

Police charged Brendan Nugent, 43, of Tarrawingee, on Tuesday. The charges include dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and the commonwealth offence of causing harm to a commonwealth public official. Court documents indicate he has since faced two additional charges for cultivating and possessing cannabis. Nugent appeared at Wangaratta magistrates court on Wednesday and did not apply for bail.

Haines' husband, Phil Haines, spoke outside the hospital on Wednesday. He stated that both her heart and her mind are in good shape. He described her as a compassionate and loving person with the sharpest intellect.

Staff for the Indi electorate posted an update on social media on Friday. They said they hope to reopen the office next Thursday. The team noted that many staff members witnessed the incident and some were among the first to assist Haines. The post asked for understanding as the team looks after itself during the recovery period.

More than $730,000 has been raised for Save the Children in Haines' honour. Phil Haines encouraged donors to contribute to the charity's special appeal while his wife recovers.

A community vigil took place in Wodonga on Wednesday evening. Cathy McGowan, Haines' predecessor as the member for Indi, told attendees that the community was dealing with mixed emotions.

Police in Western Australia charged a 56-year-old man days after the Haines incident. He allegedly threatened staff and wielded nunchucks at the electoral office of state local government minister Hannah Beazley.