Victorian Animal Justice MP Georgie Purcell and Federal Labor MP Josh Burns, a prominent political duo, have joyfully announced the birth of their first child. Their daughter arrived at a moment of personal significance, offering her Jewish father much-needed solace during challenging times.

Born on Friday, Lilah Poppy Purcell made her debut earlier than anticipated, weighing a delicate 2.56 kg at 37 weeks and five days.

Lilah’s name carries deep meaning, with her first and middle names reflecting the purple and red hues associated with her parents’ political affiliations. Additionally, these names honor her Jewish roots, which Purcell emphasized would play a significant role in their household.

“Becoming a mother is the most incredible experience,” Purcell shared, expressing how this new chapter has strengthened her resolve to advocate for a world marked by kindness, equality, and justice.

“As for our dear Lilah, she has already brought immense joy, arriving precisely when her father needed a beacon of hope,” she added.

Burns, who has been mourning the Bondi Beach attack on the Jewish community, said he has experienced “immense lows and highs over the past week” but said “out of darkness, flowers and beauty grow”.

“My heart will always stay with my community who are in mourning, but I’m also feeling so grateful to have my daughters and partner with me at home,” he said.

Burns, one of Labor’s most senior Jewish MPs whose office has been frequently targeted by vandals, said he would raise his daughter to be proud of her heritage and express it openly in Australia.

“Children are not born with hate. My daughters will be raised in a home with love, safety and kindness,” he said.

“Now I have two jobs to do: Firstly, changing nappies and being present as a father. And secondly, I’m determined to help shape a better future for my daughters and my community in our country.”

As for Purcell, she said she will spend the next few weeks resting and preparing for the upcoming state election and parliament to resume, this time with a “+1 alongside me”. 

The couple hard-launched their relationship in July last year when they stepped out together at Canberra’s midwinter ball. 

Burns has a second daughter, Tia, from his previous marriage.