Member for Canberra, Alicia Payne MP and her husband Ben Phillips have welcomed a new family member.

A statement released by the MP said the couple was excited to welcome Joseph Douglas Phillips to the world on Saturday 4 October at 4:50am at the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children at the Canberra Hospital, weighing 3.7 kilograms.

Both mother and baby are doing well and older siblings Paul, 7 and Elena, 5 adore their new brother.

Ms Payne said they were delighted and felt very blessed to welcome little Joseph into their family.

“A huge thank you to all the team at Canberra Hospital for taking such wonderful care of us and the amazing job they do to support mothers and babies each day,” she said.

“I also want to thank Dr Ken Tan and his team for the excellent care and support we received throughout my pregnancy.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Joseph’s arrival in Parliament.

“I can inform the House that Joseph Douglas Phillips arrived over the weekend — the newest ACT constituent,” Mr Albanese said.

“Young Joseph weighed 3.7kgs and was 49.5cms long.

“Mum and young Joseph are going very, very well and are delightful.

“I have seen some fantastic photos of the very, very happy family.

“So to Alicia and her partner, Ben—I’m sure on behalf of everyone in this House—congratulations. We look forward to meeting young Joseph.”

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