Australians Rally Against Taxpayer Funding for Sussexes' Australian Trip
A growing movement in Australia is demanding that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle cover the costs of their upcoming visit to the country, with a new petition rapidly gaining thousands of signatures. The campaign, spearheaded by the advocacy group Beyond Australia, urges the government to refrain from using public funds for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's security, logistics, and other requirements during their private trip scheduled for next month.
Petition Gains Momentum Amid Economic Concerns
As of this evening, the petition on Change.org, titled No Taxpayer-Funding or Official Support for Harry & Meghan's Private Visit to Australia, has amassed an impressive 32,715 signatures. The organisers argue that the visit is a private and commercial endeavour, stating emphatically: 'The activities are private and commercial and must be treated strictly as a private visit.'
Beyond Australia highlights the timing of the request, pointing to the significant cost-of-living pressures facing many Australians. These include rising grocery bills, escalating fuel prices, mortgage stress driven by interest rate hikes, and increasing energy costs. The group asserts that public resources must be used responsibly and applied fairly, without granting special treatment to high-profile individuals like Harry and Meghan.
Uncertainty Over Funding and Previous Visits
It remains unclear whether Australian taxpayers will ultimately foot the bill for the Sussexes' visit. Both federal and state governments have previously declined to confirm who would be responsible for their protection, leaving the issue in a state of ambiguity. This uncertainty has only fuelled the public's concern and the petition's rapid growth.
Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44, last visited Australia in 2018 when they were senior working members of the royal family. During that trip, they received a police escort wherever they went and stayed at the Governor-General's residence, which boasts stunning views over the world-famous Sydney Harbour. The contrast between that official visit and the current private one is a key point in the petition's argument.
Meghan's Event Faces Operational Challenges
The recent petition emerges against a backdrop of operational troubles for an event Meghan is set to headline in Sydney. Described as a 'girls' weekend like no other' and dubbed 'Meg-stock', the inaugural 'Her Best Life Retreat' is a women-only luxury retreat scheduled for April 17-19. Despite selling out with around 300 guests, including VIP ticket holders who secured front-row seats and a group photo with Meghan, the event has encountered significant setbacks.
The Intercontinental Hotel in Coogee, the venue for the gala, is racing to complete construction work in time. Reports indicate that the new infinity pool overlooking the Tasman Sea is still under construction, and the spa, bar, and 'leisure deck' are also due for completion next month. One recent guest described the pool refurbishment as 'a work in progress' and 'a blot on the view'.
Additionally, the beach below the hotel has been plagued since 2024 by foul-smelling 'poop balls'—masses composed of chemicals, soap scum, cooking oil, hair, and human excrement washing ashore. Despite these challenges, a spokesperson for the Duchess confirmed on March 19 that Meghan will still appear at the event, underscoring the commercial nature of the visit that the petition seeks to highlight.
