Harry and Meghan Begin Four-Day Australia Tour
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan have landed in Australia for a four-day visit that blends charitable work with private ventures. No longer serving as working royals, the couple is traveling on their own accord, with their trip described as independently funded. Their schedule includes meetings with children’s hospital patients, military veterans, and survivors of domestic violence, alongside commercial activities.
The visit will take them to Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney. In Melbourne, Prince Harry is set to deliver a keynote address at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit, where ticket prices range from A$1,000 to A$2,400. A portion of the event’s profits will support Lifeline, a charity focused on mental health. Meghan, meanwhile, will host a women-only event in Sydney, titled a “girls’ weekend,” organized by the creators of the Her Best Life podcast.
Private Engagements and Financial Arrangements
While the exact compensation for the couple’s commercial appearances remains undisclosed, their activities highlight a balance between public service and personal gain. The summit in Melbourne, for instance, includes a VIP option allowing attendees to secure group photos with Meghan. The “girls’ weekend” has not sold out and is still promoting additional accommodations.
“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,” a spokesperson stated. “The operation will require some additional security measures throughout their stay in New South Wales, while minimising any disruption to the community.”
Australia’s role as a potential market for Meghan’s As Ever brand is also under discussion. The brand, which has been featured in a Netflix documentary produced by the couple’s company, recently registered trademarks in 12 categories within the country. This marks their first visit since 2018, when they spent nearly nine days touring the nation shortly after their wedding. Unlike that earlier trip, which drew large crowds, this visit does not include public meet-and-greets.
Harry’s security situation in Australia has sparked debate, especially following his recent loss of a court case regarding reduced protection in the UK. The trip also comes as he faces a defamation lawsuit from Sentebale, the African charity he co-founded. Victoria Police confirmed they are monitoring the visit but did not specify if taxpayer funds would cover security costs.
