The Conversation, 21 October 2026
How rage and frustration against authority figures tips over into conspiracy and violence – and what we can do about it
From Josh Roose
The alleged attack against independent MP Helen Haines, which has left her in critical condition in a Melbourne hospital, has raised questions about political violence in Australia and the general nature of public debate.
We do not yet know the motivation behind the alleged attack on Haines. But there is no question the temperature of political debate has risen enormously in the past decade, and the rise of violent rhetoric online has spilled over into threats of violence or actual violence against people in positions of authority.