The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have been advised to develop "thick skins" ahead of their anticipated trip to Australia next month. The couple has confirmed they will undertake a series of engagements in both Sydney and Melbourne during mid-April, marking their first visit to the country since their post-wedding tour nearly eight years ago.
Private Engagements Amid Public Scrutiny
Their itinerary is reported to include private, business, and philanthropic activities, with specific involvement planned with Australia's armed forces and veterans' communities. However, unlike their 2018 visit, which drew enormous and enthusiastic crowds, sources suggest the Sussexes should not expect an unequivocally warm reception this time around.
An insider close to the situation indicated that the couple's presence is likely to ignite existing debates about the monarchy in Australia. "I think there will be plenty of monarchists and republicans who won't welcome Harry and Meghan's visit," the source stated. "Any 'royal' visit, even by members of the family who no longer represent the King, will inevitably create debate about the monarchy."
Timing and Royal Family Dynamics
The Sussexes' trip follows closely on the heels of King Charles's recent visit to the United States, his first there since late 2018. Notably, during King Charles and Queen Camilla's own tour of Australia in October 2024, some officials expressed disappointment over certain aspects of the monarch's presence, hinting at underlying sensitivities.
Furthermore, it is understood that King Charles and Prince William harbour some unease regarding Harry and Meghan's plans, particularly as the Sussexes have arranged their visit at short notice, potentially pre-empting any official tours by working royals. In September, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese publicly extended an invitation to the Prince and Princess of Wales during a meeting with the King at Balmoral, though a subsequent tour by William and Kate now appears unlikely in the immediate future.
Royal journalist Tom Sykes commented on the situation, noting, "The Sussexes are likely to be lightning rods in Australia's ongoing debate about the royal family and the country's constitutional future. For now, one thing seems certain: Harry and Meghan will need thick skins when they arrive in a country where they are no longer assured of a warm welcome."
Family Details and Historical Context
A spokesperson for the couple confirmed the visit, stating they "will visit Australia in mid-April to take part in a number of private, business and philanthropic engagements." It is understood that their children, Prince Archie, aged six, and Princess Lilibet, aged four, will remain at home in Montecito, California. The last Australian tour in 2018 holds personal significance, as Meghan was pregnant with Archie at the time.
The insider added context to the scheduling, remarking, "Back in September, the Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese had tea with the King at Balmoral and publicly invited the Prince and Princess of Wales to tour the country. There have been rumours of a visit in July or August but it's not looking likely at the moment. Either way, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are going to get there first." This dynamic underscores the complex interplay within the royal family and the broader constitutional discussions awaiting the Sussexes in Australia.
