Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have arrived in Australia for the start of their four-day trip showcasing causes they care deeply about. From veterans to children and mental health to sport, the former senior royals will visit places in Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney over a jam-packed few days.
The busy itinerary does not include any opportunities for Harry and Meghan to stop and greet members of the public due to “security and costs associated with keeping public order”.
The last time they went Down Under in 2018, on an officially royal tour, they received a warm welcome from members of the public who fully embraced the newly married couple. However they may receive a colder reception this time around, as thousands of people are disgruntled that taxpayer cash has been spent ensuring their safety. Over 46,000 people have signed a petition demanding that no taxpayers’ money be spent on their visit.
Responding to the petition last month, the couple’s spokesperson said, “It’s a moot point” as the trip is privately funded. But authorities in New South Wales and Victoria confirmed last week that public funds will cover part of the security for Harry and Meghan’s trip.
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