As Prince Harry and Meghan conclude their high-profile tour of Australia, a recent survey reveals that the majority of Australians believe taxpayers should not be footing the bill for their visit. Despite the tour being categorized as private, some of the associated policing expenses were covered by public funds, igniting public discontent, as highlighted by The Sydney Morning Herald.
In a survey conducted by nine.com.au involving nearly 900 respondents, around 90% expressed their view that taxpayer money should not have been used. Comments from participants reflect a sense of indignation, with one stating it is "almost obscene" to use public funds, especially amidst economic struggles faced by many families. Another remarked that the couple has sufficient wealth to cover their own costs.
Only a small fraction, about 6%, supported the notion that funding for security during the couple’s events was justifiable. Some argued that since high-profile celebrities often receive police protection, there should be no distinction for Harry and Meghan. Nevertheless, many Australians indicated they would not attend any of the couple’s ticketed events, which included Harry’s appearance at the InterEdge summit, where ticket prices reached up to AUD 2,400 per person, reportedly unpaid. Meghan also hosted a women’s retreat, charging between AUD 2,699 to AUD 3,199 for entry, for which she received a nominal fee.
Overall, just 2% expressed willingness to pay for events featuring Harry or Meghan, while 97% firmly opposed it, reflecting a significant disconnect between the couple’s endeavours and public interest. Interestingly, had Harry and Meghan remained active members of the royal family, public perceptions might have been different.
Despite the unease surrounding Harry and Meghan’s private visit, over half of those surveyed still support the use of taxpayer funds for official royal tours when conducted by working royals, such as the Prince and Princess of Wales. Many expressed that royals engaged in official business should have their expenses covered, contrasting sharply with sentiments regarding individuals like Harry and Meghan, who have left their royal duties and hence should bear their own costs.
While close to 40% of respondents believed that no royal visits should be funded by taxpayers, the findings from this survey emphasise a need for a reevaluation of funding protocols concerning royal tours, especially by non-working members of the royal family.