Harry and Meghan arrive in Australia for four-day tour

Harry and Meghan Arrive in Australia for Four-Day Tour

Harry and Meghan, the Sussex royals, landed in Australia for a four-day tour that blends charitable work with private, profit-driven activities. Their visit, conducted as independent citizens, includes meetings with children’s hospital patients, military veterans, and victims of domestic violence. Unlike their earlier royal duties, this trip does not feature public meet-and-greets, focusing instead on targeted engagements.

The itinerary spans Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney, with events designed to highlight causes close to the couple’s heart. Prince Harry will deliver a keynote at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit in Melbourne, where tickets range from A$1,000 to A$2,400. Some proceeds support the Lifeline charity, though organizers have not disclosed if Harry receives payment for the speech.

Meaghan’s schedule includes a “girls’ weekend” in Sydney, hosted by the creators of the *Her Best Life* podcast. Attendees pay up to A$3,199 for a VIP experience, including a photo opportunity with her. The event has not sold out, with a few rooms still available. There are also whispers that Australia may serve as a market for Meghan’s As Ever brand, which has been showcased in a Netflix series by her production company.

Since stepping down as working royals in January 2020, the couple has opted for a private funding model. However, questions remain about whether Australian taxpayers are indirectly supporting the visit through police security. Victoria and New South Wales police confirmed their presence, with Victoria officials noting the visit coincides with their April stay in Melbourne.

Previous Visit and Public Reception

Harry and Meghan’s last visit to Australia was in 2018, nearly nine days of activity shortly after their marriage. At that time, large crowds gathered to welcome them. This year’s trip, however, emphasizes smaller, focused interactions. For instance, in Melbourne, a crowd of hundreds welcomed the couple at the Royal Children’s Hospital, where they engaged with children and their families.

“We just found out they were coming so we hung around,” said Emily Burke, who brought her three-year-old daughter Phoebe to the hospital. “Meghan came and had a little chat with Phoebe… she was commenting on her Bluey slippers.”

While the official tour ends with a rugby match in Sydney, the visit extends beyond scheduled events. The couple’s choice to minimize public disruption has been noted, with police planning additional security measures without specifying financial contributions from taxpayers.