The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have arrived in Australia for a four-day tour that blends charitable visits with private, money-making engagements.
The couple, who are now no longer working royals, will engage with patients and medics at a children's hospital, military veterans and their families, and survivors of family violence.
Notably, the trip has a commercial facet, with Prince Harry scheduled to give a keynote speech at a summit, where tickets cost up to A$2,400 (£1,260) each.
Meghan is also set to participate in an “in-person conversation” at a women-only 'girls weekend' event hosted in Sydney.
The couple arrived at Melbourne airport on a commercial Qantas flight from Los Angeles. This marks their first visit to Australia since 2018, when they spent nine days there as part of a royal tour.
Unlike their previous visit, which drew large crowds, this trip has no public meet-and-greet events planned. Instead, Harry and Meghan will focus on private appearances, as they seek to minimize any disruption and conduct a privately funded tour.
Concerns have been raised over whether Australian taxpayers will bear the costs for security during their visit, especially since Prince Harry has previously faced issues regarding his security detail.
Police authorities in both Victoria and New South Wales have announced measures to maintain public safety, though they have not confirmed details regarding the financial responsibility for these services.
Despite the trip's charity focus, it has sparked discussion regarding the couple's financial gains and the implications of blending personal profit with their public engagements.
The Australia trip follows recent controversies, including legal proceedings related to Harry’s charity, Sentebale, as the couple navigates their new life as private individuals.
