Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have embarked on their latest journey to Australia, with a notable shift from their previous visit. This time, the couple will balance charitable activities with business engagements in Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra.
Their office revealed that the upcoming days will emphasize mental health, community resilience, and support for veterans and their families, in addition to private meetings and special projects. As they are no longer representing the Royal Family, concerns have been raised regarding the funding source for the trip, potential costs to Australian taxpayers, and the financial gains expected from this Down Under visit.
Meghan’s participation in a high-profile event at a luxury hotel in Sydney, where tickets are priced at £1,400 for the retreat and £1,670 for VIP access including a photo opportunity with the duchess, is a significant commercial highlight. The event organizer, Gemma O’Neill, mentioned that Meghan’s appearance fee could be substantial, possibly around $250,000.
On the other hand, Harry is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit in Melbourne. Ticket prices for delegates range from £525 to £1,250, with virtual access costing £260. Some of the proceeds from this event will go to the charity Lifeline, although it remains unclear if Harry will receive a fee.
While the couple’s camp affirms that the trip is privately funded, a petition on Change.org demanding no taxpayer money or official support for their private visit to Australia has garnered over 45,000 signatures. Security preparations by the New South Wales Police Force and Victoria Police are in progress to ensure public safety during the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s stay in respective regions.
Experts estimate the security costs for the visit could reach tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, considering the comprehensive security measures required for such high-profile guests. This visit contrasts with their previous Australian tour in 2018, which incurred significant expenses to the Australian taxpayer.
The current visit does not include public walkabouts due to security considerations and cost implications related to maintaining public order. Harry’s ongoing efforts to reinstate taxpayer-funded security in the UK post his departure as a working royal have faced challenges, with security concerns remaining a key focus for the couple.
Overall, the trip to Australia presents a blend of charity work, commercial engagements, and security arrangements, reflecting the evolving dynamics of Harry and Meghan’s post-royal life.