The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have arrived in Melbourne for a four-day visit to Australia, marking their first return since stepping back from royal duties in 2020. They arrived this morning on a commercial Qantas flight and were quickly escorted away from awaiting media scrutiny.
This trip is notably their first since their only official royal tour in 2018. During their stay, they plan to engage in several public appearances across Melbourne and Sydney. Notably, Meghan is scheduled to participate in the Her Best Life Retreat, an exclusive event co-hosted by Gemma O’Neill, which boasts ticket prices starting at $2,699.
While the couple will attend various ticketed functions during their private visit, it is essential to clarify that this tour differs from an official royal engagement. Upon stepping back from royal roles, Harry and Meghan forfeited their ability to undertake official duties on behalf of the monarchy and, consequently, royal funding. They have asserted that this visit is self-funded; however, the Sydney Morning Herald has reported that taxpayer money will be used to cover policing costs for their events.
This trip underscores the couple’s ongoing bid for privacy and independence from royal obligations, as they navigate their public lives in the wake of their departure from official royal status.