Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent four-day visit to Australia has been described as a 'Claytons tour' – a substitute for a real royal tour. The couple, who stepped back from royal duties in 2020, engaged in a mix of commercial and charitable activities, including a MasterChef appearance, a wellness retreat, and discussions on mental health.
Associate Professor Lauren Rosewarne from the University of Melbourne said the primary goal was to boost their personal brand, which combines charity and commerce. 'They are no longer working royals, so they are visiting in service of their brand,' she said. Taxpayers covered some policing costs, but large public gatherings were avoided to limit expenses.
The tour contrasted sharply with their 2018 visit, when they were greeted by rapturous crowds and met then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Harry noted that the earlier tour impressed the royal family with Meghan's public appeal. However, royal researcher Giselle Bastin said the couple's glamour has faded due to ongoing family tensions.
Commercial events included a luxury retreat where tickets cost up to A$3,199, and Meghan promoted her lifestyle brand As Ever. The couple also celebrated Australia's social media ban for children and served meals to homeless women. Despite the mixed reception, the tour underscored their ongoing efforts to maintain relevance and income outside the royal family.
