Australian Federal MP Josh Burns and Victorian MP Georgie Purcell have welcomed their daughter, Lilah Poppy Purcell, into the world. The announcement came via social media on Monday evening, revealing that Lilah was born on December 19, 2023, weighing 2.56 kilograms. The couple noted that while the name was not deliberately chosen to reflect their political affiliations, it does carry subtle connections: Lilah, symbolizing the color lilac, aligns with the Animal Justice Party, while Poppy, representing the color red, corresponds with Labor.
Early Arrival Sparks Joy and Reflection
Purcell shared that Lilah arrived earlier than expected, at 37 weeks and five days. “Lilah is definitely proving to be my daughter – she is a little impatient, insisting on bursting into the world sooner than we were expecting,” she stated. “But she came at a time that was so desperately needed for our little family.” Purcell expressed that motherhood was not part of her original plan, yet Lilah has quickly become a source of inspiration for her.
Purcell emphasized the significance of her newborn daughter, saying, “Lilah is my daily reminder that the decisions we make now will echo for generations.” As she prepares to take a brief break from her duties in parliament, she is motivated to return and advocate for a more equitable and compassionate world ahead of the elections next year.
Balancing Joy and Community Challenges
Burns, who represents the federal seat of Macnamara in inner Melbourne, has been navigating a challenging week following the Bondi terror attack. “I have experienced both immense lows and highs over the past week,” he remarked. “My heart will always stay with my community who are in mourning, but I’m also feeling so grateful for the arrival of Lilah. She is already loved completely, and I am so excited for the future with her in our lives.”
He further expressed concern over the broader implications of the recent events, stating, “The events of last week were utterly devastating to not only my community but to Australia more broadly. It highlighted to us that we have so much more to do to make Jews feel safe in their own country.” Burns is committed to raising both of his daughters, including Tia, whom he shares with his ex-wife, to be proud of their Jewish heritage.
Purcell and Burns made their official public debut at Canberra’s 2024 Midwinter Ball. Their relationship has garnered public interest, especially considering Purcell’s advocacy for Palestinian recognition and their differing political affiliations. As the couple prepares for their new chapter, Purcell plans to return to work when parliament resumes in February, with intentions to contest her seat in the November 2026 state election.
The arrival of Lilah Poppy Purcell not only marks a joyful addition to their family but also serves as a poignant reminder of the couple’s commitment to their respective causes and communities.
