LONDON — King Charles III has conveyed his “sincere affection” for Australia, a nation that was historically part of the British Empire. During his upcoming weekend visit, he is likely to find that Aussie sentiments towards him are not as warm.
In a festive welcome, Prince Charles and Queen Camilla touched down in Sydney on Friday evening, greeted by a dazzling display on the sails of the Opera House, showcasing a four-minute video tribute of previous royal visits.
At 75, King Charles becomes the first reigning British monarch to visit Australia in 13 years. This trip, which spans from October 18 to 26, marks his first international journey since ascending to the throne, as well as his first significant trip following his cancer diagnosis.
Australia is one of 14 nations outside the UK where he retains the title of head of state, albeit in a mostly ceremonial capacity. These nations form part of the Commonwealth, an organization of 56 independent states, most of which were formerly under British dominion.
Nevertheless, there is increasing skepticism in Australia, Canada, and elsewhere about whether to continue their allegiance to the British monarchy, particularly after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Charles’ mother, in 2022. This topic has reignited discussions about republicanism.
Back in 1999, Australians voted against the idea of becoming a republic during a nationwide referendum. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a long-time proponent of republicanism, has hinted at the possibility of a second vote, but the government confirmed earlier this year that the issue is not currently a priority ahead of Charles’ visit.
The King remarked that the decision to pursue a republic lies within the hands of the Australian people.
In a further sign of distancing from the monarchy, Australia decided last year to feature an Indigenous design on its new $5 banknote, replacing the image of King Charles.
As part of their visit, the royal couple will be holding a reception at Parliament House in Canberra on Monday, where the King is expected to meet with Albanese. However, several Australian state premiers – from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania – have indicated they will not attend.
A spokesperson for Queensland’s Premier, Stephen Miles, stated he was focused on his re-election campaign, while Western Australian Premier Roger Cook also had “prior commitments.” Premiers from South Australia and New South Wales were engaged in a Cabinet meeting, and the Tasmanian Premier, Jeremy Rockliffe, is currently on a trade mission in the US, according to their offices.
Nonetheless, all states are making arrangements for representatives, including governors, to attend the welcoming event.
Bev MacArthur, a lawmaker from Victoria and a representative of the Australian Monarchists Federation, criticized the absence of the Prime Minister, labeling it as “completely indefensible,” insisting it disrespects the monarchy.
“Their feeble excuses for being absent due to scheduling conflicts are laughable,” she remarked. “It’s simply nonsense.”
Conversely, Nathan Hansford, co-chair of the Australian Republic Movement (ARM), expressed understanding of the Prime Minister’s absence, mentioning the need to prioritize government responsibilities. He noted that ARM has initiated a campaign referring to the British monarch’s visit to Australia as a “Farewell Oz Tour,” calling it a chance to “bid farewell to royal governance.”
The Australian Monarchist Federation is distributing numerous Australian flags to commemorate the King’s visit, while the ARM is advocating for individuals to sign online farewell cards, as well as purchase T-shirts and tea towels to support their cause.
Republican groups have requested to meet with King Charles during his stay. In a letter from March cited by NBC News, Nathan Ross, the King’s secretary, noted that the King is following the advice of the Australian government and ministers, emphasizing his “deep love and affection” for Australia and its people.
NBC News royal expert Daisy McAndrew commented that Prince Charles has been to Australia 16 times, including a residence there as a teenager, and suggested mixed reactions are likely to emerge.
Despite ongoing cancer treatment, he is eager to travel, demonstrating his commitment to the Commonwealth and his reign.
Minister Eric Abetz from Tasmania and spokesperson for the Australian Monarchist Alliance affirmed that public sentiment is crucial, stating evidence suggests robust support for a constitutional monarchy exists.
A recent YouGov poll revealed that approximately a third of Australians are eager to move toward a republic promptly, while 35% wish to maintain the constitutional monarchy, leaving the rest undecided.
For Australia to transition into a republic, a majority approval is necessary in at least four of the six states, along with a nationwide agreement. Out of the 45 referendums conducted in Australia since 1901, only eight have passed successfully.
Should Australia decide to pursue a republic, it would follow in the footsteps of Barbados, which became the world’s newest republic in 2021 by removing the British monarch as head of state while remaining part of the Commonwealth.
The display at the Sydney Opera House has stirred controversy, with Hansford expressing that the structure stands as a testament to Australian ingenuity and independence.
“Our public landmarks should reflect our own narratives,” he insisted. “We look forward to the day when we can illuminate this iconic site to celebrate our Head of State, chosen by and for Australians.”
In contrast, MacArthur stated, “This is a fitting way to welcome Their Majesties at the start of what promises to be a memorable visit.”
The royal couple’s itinerary includes stops in Sydney and Canberra before they head to Samoa, another Commonwealth member. During their four-day visit, King Charles is scheduled to join a Commonwealth Heads of Government gathering, addressing the pressing issue of climate change affecting Pacific island nations.
