Australians at home and across the world held a vigil on Friday night to show their support for independent MP Helen Haines, who was struck by a car outside her Wangaratta electorate office on Monday.

The invitation for people to light a candle at 8pm as a gesture of peace and solidarity was shared widely on social media.

The independent MP is in a critical but stable condition after having both legs amputated at The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne.

Constituent, 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, has been charged with three offences related to the incident.

Community events were held in Victoria and around the country. Online, people flooded social media with candles and orange hearts.

In Haines’ rural community, several constituents shared stories of her providing support and inspiration.

Wangaratta resident Bek Nash-Webster said she was “just so terribly sad”.

“We adore Helen and she is an amazing part of our community and we are all still in shock,” she said.

The Wangaratta Beacon was lit up in amber as part of the vigil. Photo: City of Wangaratta

The Wangaratta Beacon, an old water tower now used for art installations, was lit up as part of the vigil.

“At times like these, what unites us matters far more than what divides us,” the Rural City of Wangaratta said in a statement.

Members of Haines’ electorate also held a vigil at Australia House in London.

Senator Fatima Payman posted a photo of a candle on Facebook, writing, “As a colleague and friend of Helen Haines, it’s heartbreaking to see someone you care about go through something so frightening and deeply distressing.

“Tonight, I’m lighting a candle for Helen, her family and her staff. For their healing, their safety and their peace,” Payman said.

“And for a kinder politics, where we can disagree without hate, and where humanity always comes first.”

Independent Senator Fatima Payman called for a kinder politics. Photo: AAP

Haines’s office said in a statement they hoped to reopen her Murphy Street office on Thursday.

“Healing will take time, and we ask for your understanding as we navigate the days and weeks ahead.”