PRINCE HARRY AND MEGHAN ARRIVE IN AUSTRALIA FOR FIRST VISIT SINCE STEPPING BACK FROM ROYAL DUTIES. (PHOTO).

Prince Harry and Meghan arrive in Australia for first visit since stepping back from royal duties

  

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, arrived in Melbourne on Tuesday for their first visit to Australia since their official royal tour in 2018. The four-day trip is notably more low-key and comes years after the couple stepped back from their roles as senior members of the royal family in 2020, choosing to pursue financial independence while living in California. The visit is privately funded, with the pair traveling on a commercial flight from Los Angeles, but it has still drawn criticism over the cost of security for police agencies as they make stops in Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney. Unlike their highly publicized 2018 tour, large crowds are not expected due in part to those security concerns. Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, did not accompany them on the trip.

The visit has sparked mixed reactions, with some critics questioning appearances at paid events and describing the trip as an effort to promote their brand, while others argue the couple faces criticism regardless of their approach. Representatives for the Sussexes say the visit is centered on supporting organizations and engaging with communities, with a focus on listening and learning rather than publicity. Their itinerary includes visits to a children’s hospital in Melbourne, a women’s shelter, a veterans’ art museum, and the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, along with participation in an Invictus-related sailing event in Sydney. Harry, who founded the Invictus Games for injured service members and veterans, expressed enthusiasm about returning to Australia, calling it “good to be back” as the couple continues balancing charitable work with private and commercial interests.