NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet welcomes seventh child, takes parental leave until April

Premier Dominic Perrottet is taking parental leave until April to spend time with his newborn baby girl, but the father of seven will “remain ready to return” to duty.

Premier Dominic Perrottet has welcomed his seventh child – a baby girl – into the world.

Mr Perrottet confirmed the happy news on Thursday morning, posting a picture of himself, his wife Helen and the baby girl, named Celeste Grace Perrottet.

“Helen and I are absolutely thrilled … Both mum and baby are doing well,” he wrote. “She’s looking forward to being kissed and cuddled, fought over and cherished by her big brother and sisters. Special thanks to the incredible midwives who were with us every step of the way.”

The pair both appeared happy and well in the picture, which was posted from Ms Perrottet’s hospital bed.

The baby girl has been named Celeste Grace. Photo: Twitter

The Premier has announced he will be taking parental leave until April 4 but will “remain ready to return” should the state find itself in another crisis.

Mr Perrottet said Deputy Premier Paul Toole will step into his role in the meantime while Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres will be the acting leader of the Parliamentary Liberal Party.

“Last night my wife Helen and I welcomed our newest member of the family, a gorgeous

daughter, Celeste Grace Perrottet. Celeste and Helen are doing great, and Celeste’s six siblings are over the moon,” he said.

“From today I am taking leave to spend time with Helen and the kids as we all adjust

to welcoming a new child to our family.

“I will be seeking a Pair from the Opposition for the parliamentary sitting period

commencing 22 March and concluding 31 March.”

Mr Perrottet said he will be regularly briefed on the flood recovery despite being on leave.

“Given the current flood emergency I will continue to receive briefings on the response

and recovery work and remain ready to return to official duties immediately should the

need arise,” he said.

Mr Perrottet, 39, first announced the baby news a few weeks into his appointment to the top position.

“Exciting family news,” he wrote in October last year.

“Our family photo wall is going to need another frame! Helen and I are thrilled to announce we have a little girl due next year.”

“With five sisters already, William is looking on the bright side – more bench depth on the family basketball team.”

Mr Perrottet, a devout Catholic, came from a large family and is a brother to 11 siblings.