Federal MPs Josh Burns and Georgie Purcell have joyfully announced the birth of their daughter, Lilah Poppy Purcell, who arrived earlier than expected on December 19, 2023, weighing 2.56 kg. The couple took to social media to share their news on Monday evening, highlighting a name that subtly reflects their political affiliations.
While the couple noted that the name was not chosen intentionally to represent their parties, it carries symbolic significance. The name Lilah, meaning lilac, is associated with the color of the Animal Justice Party, which Purcell represents in northern Victoria’s upper house. Meanwhile, Poppy, a red flower, symbolizes the Labor Party, where Burns serves as the MP for Macnamara in inner Melbourne.
Purcell expressed her delight at the arrival of their daughter, stating that Lilah has already shown her personality by arriving at 37 weeks and five days, earlier than anticipated. “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 remarked. “But she came at a time that was so desperately needed for our little family.”
The new mother reflected on the journey to motherhood, saying, “Becoming a mum was never part of my plan, but in just a few short days she has shown me that I simply couldn’t imagine a life without her.” Purcell also emphasized that Lilah is a “daily reminder that the decisions we make now will echo for generations.”
As she prepares for a brief hiatus from her parliamentary duties, Purcell noted that her daughter serves as the inspiration she needs to continue her work in politics. “I will return to parliament and an election next year to fight for a fairer, kinder world,” she added.
Burns, who has been managing the emotional aftermath of a recent terror attack in Bondi, expressed his mixed feelings. “I have experienced both immense lows and highs over the past week. My heart will always stay with my community who are in mourning, but I’m also feeling so grateful for the arrival of Lilah,” he said. He added that she is “already loved completely” and expressed excitement about their future together.
The couple also shares a daughter, Tia, from Burns’ previous marriage. He stated his commitment to raising both daughters to be proud of their Jewish heritage. “I am determined to raise both of my daughters to be proud to express it openly and safely in Australia,” he affirmed.
Burns and Purcell made their public debut at Canberra’s 2024 Midwinter Ball. Following their announcement of Purcell’s pregnancy on social media, they acknowledged the public interest in their relationship, particularly concerning Purcell’s advocacy for Palestinian recognition and their differing political affiliations.
Purcell plans to return to her parliamentary duties when sessions resume in February and has confirmed her intention to recontest her seat in the November 2026 state election. As they embark on this new chapter, both MPs remain focused on their responsibilities while embracing the joy of parenthood.
