'He tried so hard to conquer his demons': Federal MP Linda Burney's son found dead

Federal Labor MP Linda Burney has returned to Sydney following the death of her son.

Labor MP Linda Burney

Federal Labor MP Linda Burney has taken leave from parliament following the sudden death of her son. (AAP) Source: AAP

Federal Labor MP Linda Burney is taking leave from parliament following the sudden death of her son.

Binni Kirkbright-Burney, 33, was found dead on Tuesday night at the Burney family home in Sydney.

"I returned to Sydney last night to be with him this one last time," Ms Burney said in a statement.

"He is a caring and loving man. He has struggled with mental health and with addiction.

"He tried so hard to conquer his demons as I and my family have tried so hard to support him in every way we could."

Ms Burney said police had told her there appeared to be no suspicious circumstances, but the cause of her son's death was yet to be determined.

"I don't want to pre-empt subsequent inquiry but we all thought we were getting somewhere. I don't know what life will be like without him."

Cabinet minister Simon Birmingham extended condolences to Ms Burney and her family.

"The hearts, prayers, sympathies, and thoughts of all members of the nation's parliament will be with Linda Burney and her family today," he told reporters in Canberra.

Readers seeking support and/or information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.


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