During a recent visit to Australia, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made headlines with their public appearances and interactions. Their trip, which began on a Tuesday, included charitable engagements and commercial events.
Visit Details
The couple arrived in Melbourne aboard a commercial Qantas flight from Los Angeles. Their presence remained unnoticed by other passengers until they disembarked. One traveler noted the surprise upon realizing who they were.
Engagements in Melbourne
- The Duke and Duchess visited the Royal Children’s Hospital, established by Harry’s grandmother, the late Queen, in 1963.
- They met with military veterans and families affected by violence.
- Following their Melbourne events, they traveled to Canberra.
Key Events in Canberra
In Canberra, Prince Harry participated in an event with the AFL team, the Western Bulldogs, and met Indigenous veterans at the Australian War Memorial. Their engagements included a keynote address by Harry at a summit where ticket prices reached up to AUD $2400 (approximately USD $2900).
Meghan’s Schedule
Meghan Markle is set to host a women-only event in Sydney connected to her podcast, “Her Best Life”.
Security Concerns and Costs
The couple’s visit has sparked discussions about the costs incurred for security during their stay. Estimates suggest that these expenses could run into the tens, possibly hundreds, of thousands of Australian dollars. Concerns were raised regarding whether Australian taxpayers would bear any of these costs, especially related to policing.
As the Duke and Duchess continue their journey, their activities in Australia enhance their profile as private citizens engaged in meaningful social issues.
