Key facts
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced expedited security upgrades for Australian MPs.
- The decision follows an attack on independent MP Helen Haines.
- The government is reviewing security for MPs' homes and offices.
- MPs have reported increased erratic behavior and threats.
- Female politicians are noted as particular targets for threats.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Tuesday that the government would expedite an existing security review for federal politicians following an attack on independent MP Helen Haines. Albanese described the incident as a "turning point," stating that while security for MPs had increased, more could and should be done. The government is considering all options, including enhanced security for MPs' homes and offices, and more proactive threat assessments from the Australian Federal Police. MPs across the political spectrum have expressed concerns about their safety and that of their families, with some noting an increase in erratic behavior and threats directed at their offices since the Haines attack. Female politicians have been identified as particular targets for threats, which have been described as having turned "industrial" in recent years.