Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are scheduled to visit Australia in mid-April for various private events and business activities. However, their upcoming trip has sparked significant backlash from local residents, who are expressing strong opposition to any taxpayer funding associated with the visit. The couple, who stepped back from their royal duties in 2020, no longer represent the Crown and are now engaged in private commercial ventures based in the United States.
Residents of Australia have initiated a petition on Change.org, insisting that the visit should be classified as a “private celebrity visit” rather than an official royal engagement. The petition argues that public resources should not be allocated for security, logistics, or government coordination, especially given the current economic climate affecting many Australians. “Public resources must be used responsibly,” the petition states, highlighting the serious cost-of-living pressures that residents are facing.
According to a report from RadarOnline, the Sussexes’ representatives have confirmed that Harry and Meghan will participate in a series of private, business, and philanthropic engagements in both Sydney and Melbourne. This announcement has further fueled the outcry, with many locals asserting that taxpayer-funded security or any form of official status should not be extended for what they view as a private visit. The petition emphasizes that “security and government coordination would come at significant public cost,” urging that official support should be reserved exclusively for working royals on official tours.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex last visited Australia in 2018, when they were still active members of the British royal family. Since stepping down, they have continued to undertake international trips focused on humanitarian work, with previous visits to countries such as Nigeria, Colombia, and Jordan. The recent pushback against their upcoming visit illustrates the complex relationship between the couple and the Australian public, particularly in light of their transition away from royal duties.
As the date approaches, it remains to be seen how the couple will navigate the local sentiments surrounding their trip. The situation highlights the ongoing conversation about the role of taxpayer funding in royal engagements, especially for individuals who have distanced themselves from official royal responsibilities.
