This upcoming visit contrasts sharply with their 2018 tour, which was a full royal tour with police escorts and large crowds, unlike the current private, business-focused endeavor. The trip is privately funded, not taxpayer-funded, according to multiple reports. Public sentiment in Australia includes significant opposition, as a petition titled 'No Taxpayer-Funding or Official Support for Harry & Meghan's Private Visit to Australia' has amassed over 32,000 signatures.
org petition with over 10,000 signatures also opposes public funding for the couple's security and logistics. Security and logistical arrangements are a point of focus, with multiple reports indicating that Harry and Meghan will not conduct traditional royal 'walkabouts' during their Australia visit due to security costs. Meghan's business ambitions are a central component of the trip, as she is keen to expand her brand As Ever in Australia during the visit.
The visit serves as a test for Meghan's As Ever brand to gauge global consumer appetite, with research indicating that 9% of its online traffic comes from Australia as of February. She has secured 12 trademarks for As Ever in Australia, approved in June 2024, though a Sussex representative claimed the trademark filings were made without their knowledge and pre-dated their work. Controversy surrounds As Ever's trademarks and its split from Netflix, with Netflix previously serving as an equity partner.
According to a source, Netflix was unhappy with As Ever's performance and lack of consumer appetite, leading to the split. Meghan's high-profile appearance includes headlining the Her Best Life retreat in Sydney, where she will participate in a live conversation. She will be interviewed by Gemma O’Neill at the retreat, with tickets costing up to A$3,199 (around $2,285).
According to a source, Meghan is paid $1 million to attend the Her Best Life retreat, with expenses covered. Uncertainty surrounds ticket availability for the Her Best Life retreat, as it is marketed as sold out, but according to reports, tickets may still be available. Prince Harry will headline the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit in Melbourne on April 15-16, focusing on psychosocial safety.
According to GB News, his scheduled keynote speech in Australia is struggling to sell tickets, indicating potential challenges in attracting attendees. Family dynamics add a personal layer to the visit, as their children, Archie and Lilibet, are not expected to join them on the trip. Harry has only seen his father twice in two years, and his children last saw their grandfather over four years ago, highlighting strained relationships.
Reactions from the royal family include Prince William's disapproval, as according to a source, he is unhappy about the trip and views it as fraudulent for them to be treated like royalty. Background on Meghan's past complaints about walkabouts during the 2018 tour adds context, as according to the book 'Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind the Crown', Meghan Markle previously complained about 'not getting paid' for walkabouts during the 2018 Australia tour. Recent humanitarian efforts provide context, as the couple visited Jordan in February 2026 for a two-day trip focused on humanitarian work, showcasing their ongoing philanthropic commitments.
Broader royal context includes Australia's stance on Prince Andrew, with research indicating that Australia's prime minister supports removing Prince Andrew from the line of succession, reflecting broader royal tensions. Implications and unknowns persist regarding government support, itinerary details, petition impact, speech ticket sales, and financial transparency, leaving key aspects of the visit unresolved.