Harry and Meghan Slammed by Locals as They Kick Off Australia Tour: ‘Why Are They Coming?’
Angry locals slam Harry and Meghan’s 'self-promotion' as authorities confirm taxpayer funds are being used for security.
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle landed in Australia for their four-day tour, the lukewarm reception from the locals hinted that the Sussex magic might be a thing of the past. Even with the high-profile status of their trip, a significant number of Aussies are responding with apathy, while others are showcasing their frustration over the steep price tag for their protection. Arriving via Qantas flight QF94 from Los Angeles, the Duke and Duchess landed at Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport at 6:38 AM. Though they were quickly ushered out through a VIP exit into waiting private vehicles, the atmosphere outside the airport was notably missing the roaring crowds that greeted them during their first tour of the land down under in 2018.
The couple will travel through Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne over the course of four days to highlight their long-standing commitment to core causes like veterans, children’s welfare, and mental health; the schedule, however, is strictly controlled, notably lacking any public meet-and-greets or casual interactions. While organizers point to security risks and the logistical burden of public order, many view the lack of interaction as a direct result of the Sussexes' waning popularity — a sentiment that was echoed by Sydney residents, some of whom admitted that the visit was more of a ‘self-promotion.’
While being interviewed by the BBC, one resident expressed a feeling of exhaustion that many believe is now widespread across the Commonwealth. “They are very much about self-promotion. They are probably my least favourite royals, let's put it that way,” he remarked, noting, “I really think they need to step up and do more for the general public and finish this ongoing feud with their family, which is, to be honest, becoming pretty boring.” Highlighting how much Harry and Markle’s relevance has faded, he added, “I wasn't aware they were coming to Australia at all. I haven't seen anything on the news.” The dismissiveness continued with other locals as well, who took an even more scathing tone.
Offering a stinging assessment of the California-based couple’s significance, one woman sneered, “Can I be honest and tell you I really don't think of them at all.” A third passerby simply questioned, “I don't know why they are coming.” The irritation of Australians is reaching a boiling point, escalated by concerns that they are directly paying for the couple’s tour. Although a spokesperson for the Sussexes downplayed the issue by stating that the visit will be paid privately, authorities in Victoria and New South Wales have since clarified that taxpayer funds are, in fact, being tapped to facilitate the security operation.
This confirmation has acted as a catalyst for a petition, now with more than 46,000 signatures, all of whom are demanding a complete halt to any public funds being spent on the Sussexes. The change in mood is striking, especially considering that in 2018, the couple was universally viewed as the monarchy’s breath of fresh air.
