A man who allegedly drove his car into Australian politician Helen Haines outside ⁠her electoral office has appeared in court, as police seek to understand the motive for the rare attack on an elected official.

Australian lawmaker Helen Haines has lost one of her legs and is fighting to keep the other, local media reported.

A statement released by the suspect's parents said Australian lawmaker Helen Haines had been "our friend for more than 20 years".

Helen Haines was hit by a Toyota Land Cruiser outside her office in the town of Wangaratta. The driver was then arrested and police found a knife in his car.