John Howard hailed a hero as he ‘helps save woman in domestic violence row’

Former Aussie prime minister John Howard has been hailed a hero after reportedly intervening in a domestic violence row to save a woman.

Scott Morrison has led a stream of praise online for the 79-year-old politician, after it was reported by the Sunday Telegraph that he helped the woman after spotting her in trouble during his routine walk near his home in Wollstonecraft.

According to the news outlet, the pair were seen arguing before it allegedly descended into a physical altercation – prompting a nearby Howard to step in.

A source told the news outlet that Howard shouted “Hey” before stepping up and staying by the woman’s side until police arrived, ensuring she came to no danger.

Officers from North Shore Police Area Command reportedly confirmed the ex PM had assisted at the scene, but was not involved in the row. He has since given a statement to cops.

“He took on the Taliban in his 60s and now he’s taking on domestic violence at almost 80,” a source added. “Others would have turned a blind eye.”

The former Liberal leader declined to comment to the news outlet when asked about the alleged row, but confirmed there had been an “incident”.

A 44-year-old woman has reportedly been charged with breaching an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order and granted conditional bail. Meanwhile, a 47-year-old man was taken to hospital as a mental health precaution.

Morrison has praised Howard online for his selfless act, writing: “How good is John Howard! Thanks and well done. An example to all.”

Meanwhile one Twitter user wrote: “John Howard is a legend,” and another added: “John Howard person of great character.”

Howard famously set up a Commonwealth program called Partnerships Against Domestic Violence in 1997 during his time in office, promising $50 million for research and resources over a six-year period.

It comes just months after Howard opened up on his big regret from his time as prime minister. Speaking with Nine political reporter Jonathan Kearsley, Howard recalled an event in the Victorian region just weeks after the Port Arthur massacre claimed the lives of 35 people and injured 23 others.

Howard introduced sweeping changes to Australia’s gun laws following the deadly shooting, banning the sale and importation of automatic and semi-automatic guns and introducing strict rules around background checks and gun ownership.

Read more: John Howard reveals his big regret from time as prime minister

While the changes were welcomed in many parts of the country, there was some unrest from farmers who felt they were being treated like would-be criminals under the government’s new regulations.

Prior to taking to the stage in Gippsland to speak with the farmers, Howard’s security team warned him there was a credible threat against him and that Australian Federal Police had reason to believe an assassination attempt could be on the cards.

He was advised to wear a bullet-proof vest; something he resisted at first, but ultimately agreed to do.

“I should never have worn it,” Howard told Kearsey. “That was security advice I was given. I never really felt unsafe in Australia.”

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