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Private visit blends philanthropy with paid appearances
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived in Australia on Tuesday for a four-day trip combining charitable engagements with high-profile, paid events. No longer working royals, the couple are funding the visit privately but questions remain over potential taxpayer costs for security.
First engagements focus on hospitals and veterans
Harry and Meghan began their tour at Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital, where they posed for selfies, chatted with young patients, and joined a garden therapy session. The Duke joked about taking home a gumtree, quipping he might face arrest for doing so.
Later, the couple visited a women's refuge, where Meghan served frittata to residents and shared a meal, remarking on her jet lag. They also spent time at the Australian National Veterans' Arts Museum, participating in a pottery class with veterans and their families.
Commercial events dominate schedule
Prince Harry is set to deliver a keynote speech at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit in Melbourne, where tickets range from A$1,000 to A$2,400 (£1,260). A portion of proceeds will benefit Lifeline, but it remains unclear whether Harry is being paid for the appearance.
Meghan will host an "in-person conversation" at a women-only wellness retreat in Sydney, with tickets priced up to A$3,199. The event, held at a five-star beachside hotel, has not sold out, and VIP packages include a group photo with the Duchess.
Business interests and security concerns
Australia may also serve as a market for Meghan's As Ever lifestyle brand, which registered trademarks in 12 product categories last year. The couple's production company highlighted the brand in a recent Netflix series.
While the visit is private, Australian police in Victoria and New South Wales confirmed they will provide security. Neither force disclosed whether taxpayers would cover the costs, though both emphasized minimizing public disruption.
"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."
NSW Police spokesperson
Contrast with 2018 royal tour
This trip marks Harry and Meghan's first return to Australia since their 2018 royal tour, which drew massive crowds. This time, no public meet-and-greets are planned, with the couple citing a desire to "minimize disruption."
Their visit comes amid legal challenges for Harry, including a defamation lawsuit from Sentebale, the African charity he co-founded, and a recent UK court ruling on his security arrangements.
