I'd like to begin by acknowledging the thoughtful, kind and beautiful statements that other members of this place have made today. There is a great deal that divides us in this chamber, but the respect we share for Helen Haines is a strong reminder of what unites us. We all share a deep respect for the member for Indi. Helen is compassionate, intelligent and generous. She works tirelessly for her communities and shows all of us on a daily basis that politics can be done better with more compassion and care for one another.

The events that took place last week have affected so many Australians deeply. The outpouring of support for Helen; her husband, Phil; her family; staff; volunteers and the community she represents has been so heartwarming. It shows the level of respect Australians hold for Helen and it also demonstrates just how much Australians care about their democracy. Australians overwhelmingly believe in a democracy where goodness prevails over hate and fear and where people can engage in politics and go about their work and live their lives without fear of violence.

As members of parliament, it is our job and our privilege to speak directly to our constituents down the street at the local market or street store. I know there have been discussions about whether we can continue to do this in light of what has occurred, but, as others have said today, we should ask the question 'what would Helen do?' She'd say we need to keep going, to keep pushing and to keep fronting up for our communities, because, while I am heartbroken for Helen and her family and heartbroken for our democracy, we cannot allow this incident to tear at the fabric of what we hold dear. I cannot accept the idea that it's normal for any Australian to feel unsafe at work or at home or fearful to step up and represent their community. Whether you're a nurse, paramedic, police officer, teacher, retail worker, support worker or member of parliament, no-one should fear violence while simply doing their job.

Changing the way we conduct ourselves in this place will not, on its own, end violence, but that doesn't mean we don't hold responsibility. We absolutely do. Each of us has a responsibility to consider the example we set, the language we use and the way we disagree with others, and that responsibility extends beyond the chamber. It is also shared by media, social media companies and Australians who comment on digital platforms. We must all understand the difference between robust political debate and a culture that turns disagreement into hate and division, because, at the end of the day, every member in this chamber is here because we want to improve people's lives. Helen was just doing that last Monday, doing a job and caring for her community. It's what she was doing when I listened to her speak during our last sitting week at an event held by Save the Children. She spoke with such eloquence, with intelligence and warmth, about an organisation that cares for the most vulnerable.

Deputy Speaker, through you, I'd like to speak directly to the member for Indi. Helen, I want you to know that Hugh and I send our love and heartfelt best wishes for your recovery. You are much loved, and we look forward to your return. To Phil: your strength, dignity and wisdom at a time of such anguish is a source of inspiration. To Helen's staff, who were among the first responders: thank you for your bravery. What you experienced was deeply traumatic, and I hope you get the support you need during this time. I hope the same for Helen's family and for health professionals who have cared so well for Helen over the past week. On Friday night I took part in a candlelit vigil for Helen in Geelong. So many of my constituents came up to me asking about Helen and sending their best wishes to her. Helen, from my close-knit community, we send our heartfelt love and words of support.