Federal Member of Parliament Josh Burns and Victorian MP Georgie Purcell have welcomed the arrival of their daughter, Lilah Poppy Purcell, who was born on December 19, 2023, weighing 2.56 kg. The couple shared the news via social media on Monday evening, celebrating the new addition to their family.
Political Significance in Naming
The name chosen for their daughter carries subtle political symbolism. While the couple insists that it was not a deliberate decision, the name Lilah, which means lilac and represents the colour of the Animal Justice Party, and Poppy, a red flower symbolizing the Labour Party, reflect their respective political affiliations. Purcell, a member of the Animal Justice Party representing northern Victoria in the state’s upper house, remarked on the timing of Lilah’s arrival, noting that she was born 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,” Purcell stated. “But she came at a time that was so desperately needed for our little family.”
Purcell expressed her personal transformation, 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.” She emphasized the importance of Lilah as a reminder of the lasting impact of their choices. “As I take a short break from work, she is the inspiration I need to return to parliament and an election next year to fight for a fairer, kinder world,” she added.
A Balancing Act of Personal and Public Life
Burns, who represents the federal seat of Macnamara in inner Melbourne, has faced a tumultuous week following the Bondi terror attack. He expressed the duality of his emotions during this challenging time. “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. “She is already loved completely, and I am so excited for the future with her in our lives.”
He acknowledged the broader implications of 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.”
Lilah joins Burns’ family, which includes her older sister Tia, from his previous marriage. Burns reiterated his commitment to raising both daughters with pride in their Jewish heritage, ensuring they can express their identity openly and safely in Australia.
The couple made their first public appearance together at Canberra’s 2024 Midwinter Ball and later announced their pregnancy on social media. Purcell had previously indicated that she was undergoing weekly medical checks due to her autoimmune condition, which classified her as high-risk.
There has been significant public interest in their relationship, particularly given Purcell’s advocacy for Palestinian recognition and their affiliation with different political parties. Purcell confirmed her intention to return to work when parliament resumes in February 2024 and plans to contest her seat in the November 2026 state election.
