Royal Couple’s Schedule Packed as Australian Republic Debate Gains Momentum
King Charles III and Queen Camilla are scheduled to visit Australia this week, with a busy itinerary before they depart for Samoa.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla are expected to arrive in Australia shortly, with the Sydney Opera House being illuminated for the occasion.
This will mark the King’s inaugural visit to the country since his coronation in 2022.
The royal duo is set to land on Oct. 18, kicking off a tour of New South Wales (NSW) and Canberra.
Throughout their NSW visit, they will explore significant landmarks before participating in ceremonies at the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House in Canberra.
On Oct. 21, a formal welcome will take place where they will meet with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, followed by a public appearance in the forecourt at 2 p.m.
NSW Premier Chris Minns, who previously declined to illuminate the Sydney Opera House for the King’s coronation, has now expressed eagerness to do so as a gesture of warm welcome to the monarch.
The cost of lighting up the Opera House is estimated to be between $80-100,000 (US$53-67,000).
Sydneysiders can catch a glimpse of the royal couple at the Opera House forecourt and the Man O’War Steps at 4 p.m. on Oct. 22.
Additionally, the King and Queen will attend a community barbecue in Parramatta, showcasing the region with support from the NSW Agricultural Society.
Queen Camilla will engage with students participating in writing workshops and the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay competition at a Sydney library, while the King will visit the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) to discuss its efforts in bushfire mitigation.
The Queen is also scheduled to meet with the domestic violence charity GIVIT.
Several premiers have declined invitations to meet with the royal couple, including Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, and others with conflicting commitments.
The royal visit is sparking debate over the monarchy’s role in Australia, with both supporters and opponents expressing their views.
While some oppose the establishment of a republic, the Australian Republic Movement is using this visit as an opportunity to push for change.
On the other hand, the Australian Monarchist League supports the visit, highlighting the strong relationship between Australia and the monarchy.
