Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have embarked on a four-day visit to Australia, mixing charitable activities with privately organised commercial engagements. This marks their first trip to the country since 2018.
The couple, who ceased to be working members of the British Royal Family in 2020, arrived in Melbourne on a commercial flight from Los Angeles early Tuesday. Their itinerary is set to cover Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney, with plans to meet individuals such as patients, healthcare professionals, military veterans, and victims of domestic violence. They are also slated to participate in paid speaking engagements and wellness events.
During their initial stop at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, the Duke and Duchess engaged with patients and their families, participating in activities and greeting those present. A significant number of people gathered in the hospital's foyer hoping to see the couple. One parent, Emily Burke, shared, “We just found out they were coming so we hung around,” noting that “Meghan came and had a little chat with Phoebe… she was commenting on her Bluey slippers”.
The visit is structured to include both charitable outreach and commercial opportunities. Prince Harry is expected to deliver a keynote address at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit in Melbourne, with ticket prices reaching up to A$2,400. Meghan is also scheduled to lead an “in-person conversation” at a women's wellness retreat in Sydney, where attendance packages are priced as high as A$3,199. The exact earnings from these appearances remain undisclosed.
While in Melbourne, Meghan visited a women’s refuge to assist residents and serve meals, commenting, “we landed here this morning so my jet lag hasn’t quite hit yet”. Simultaneously, Harry took part in a garden therapy session at the hospital, humorously remarking upon being offered a gumtree plant, “I would, but I think I’d probably get arrested at some point.”
In contrast to their 2018 royal tour, which attracted large public crowds, this current visit does not feature scheduled public meet-and-greet sessions. The couple are travelling privately, and their representatives have stated that the trip is self-funded. However, questions have arisen regarding potential security and policing costs that may be borne by Australian taxpayers.
Authorities in Victoria and New South Wales have confirmed that security measures are in place. A representative for the New South Wales Police Force stated, “The New South Wales Police Force will conduct an operation to ensure public safety is maintained during the visit by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex,” adding that efforts would be made to minimise community disruption.
Beyond their scheduled engagements, there are indications that Australia may present a market for Meghan’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, which has recently expanded its trademark registrations in the country.
The current visit unfolds amid renewed public scrutiny of Prince Harry, following reports of an ongoing legal matter involving Sentebale, a charity he co-founded.
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