20 October 2026An alleged attack on an independent MP in regional Victoria, NAB job cuts, and curfews in French cities.
Featured image: Wangaratta, Victoria. Photo: Mattinbgn (talk · contribs), CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
In brief
Top story: Independent MP Helen Haines was allegedly struck by a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria, and a man was arrested.
Australia
1. Independent MP allegedly struck by car in Wangaratta
Helen Haines was allegedly hit by a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta late on 19 October and was taken to hospital in Melbourne in a critical condition. A 43-year-old man was detained by bystanders and arrested. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett said the incident appears isolated, with no known threats, and that any charges could include Commonwealth offences. A vigil was held for the MP.
2. Threats against political office holders rise
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said reports of harassing or threatening behaviour towards high office holders rose from 951 to 1,067 across the two most recent financial years. ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess said politically motivated violence is more likely than in past years, and the National Terrorism Threat Level remains at probable.
3. NAB to cut about 1,500 jobs by end of year
National Australia Bank said about 1,500 jobs will go before the end of 2026, with about 2,500 staff, roughly 6 per cent of the workforce, expected to leave over the full financial year. CEO Andrew Irvine said the restructure aims to make the bank more efficient, with no material impact on customer-facing roles.
4. Independent review of NT child protection case
An independent review found extensive failings by the Northern Territory child protection department in the case of a young Aboriginal girl who died. The NT Government accepted all 45 recommendations, and Minister Robyn Cahill called the findings heartbreaking.
Around the World
5. Partial curfews announced in French cities
Partial curfews were announced in Paris, Lille and Nice after weekend riots and looting linked to nationwide protests over living costs and school conditions. In Paris, police barred protests in certain areas for 10 hours overnight. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu said a state of emergency could be considered and that curfews must be localised and partial.
6. Japan to launch mission to collect samples from Phobos
Japan is set to launch a spacecraft to collect samples from Phobos, one of the two moons of Mars. The mission is expected to take five years and aims to clarify how Phobos and Deimos formed. Project manager Yasuhiro Kawakatsu said the spacecraft has been assembled and the rocket is ready.
