The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have addressed growing criticism over their upcoming trip to Australia, insisting that the visit will be privately funded despite a wave of public opposition.
The couple’s representatives responded after more than 35,000 Australians signed an online petition urging the government not to use taxpayer money to cover any part of their stay.
Petition Demands No Public Money Be Spent
The petition, launched by advocacy group Beyond Australia, is titled “No Taxpayer-Funding or Official Support for Harry and Meghan’s Private Visit to Australia.”
It argues that, with Australians facing significant cost-of-living pressures—including rising grocery prices, fuel costs, and increasing energy bills—public resources should not be diverted to accommodate high-profile individuals.
Critics stressed that Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44, should fully fund their trip themselves, warning against any quasi-royal treatment during what they view as a private, commercial visit.
Couple’s Response: Trip Is Privately Funded
A spokesman for the Sussexes emphasized that the visit will be financed privately, questioning the point of the petition.
He also noted the broader context: “Approximately 26.5 million Australians—99.98% of the population—haven’t signed this petition, which makes any claims about public opposition rather absurd,” he said, highlighting what he sees as the petition’s limited reach and influence.
Flashback to 2018 Visit
This isn’t the couple’s first trip to Australia.
In 2018, while still senior working members of the Royal Family, they were provided police escorts and stayed at the Governor-General’s residence, offering them a prime view of Sydney Harbour.
The comparison has fueled discussion about the extent of public support for the Sussexes today.
Meghan’s ‘Ultimate Girls’ Weekend’ Faces Setbacks
The controversy over funding comes as Meghan prepares for the Her Best Life Retreat, a three-day luxury women’s event in Sydney from April 17–19.
The event, which has sold out for around 300 guests, promises VIP experiences including front-row seating and a group photo with Meghan at the Intercontinental Hotel.
However, recent reports reveal that the hotel’s facilities are still unfinished.
The infinity pool overlooking the Tasman Sea is under construction, and the spa, bar, and leisure deck are expected to be ready next month.
Guests have already described the pool refurbishment as “a work in progress” and “a blot on the view.”
Meanwhile, the beach below continues to struggle with pollution issues, including foul-smelling chemical and human waste deposits, colloquially known as “poop balls,” that have accumulated over the past two years.
Impact and Consequences
The debate over funding underscores a broader tension between public perception and the couple’s activities.
While the Sussexes assert their trip is privately funded, the online uproar highlights how their status continues to polarize public opinion in Australia and beyond.
The unfinished hotel facilities also threaten to affect the retreat’s image, potentially dampening attendee satisfaction despite the sold-out event.
What’s Next?
The couple will proceed with their visit and the Her Best Life Retreat as planned.
Government officials in Australia have not publicly confirmed any financial contributions for security, leaving room for ongoing speculation.
Meanwhile, Beyond Australia may continue advocacy efforts to influence future high-profile visits.
Summary
Harry and Meghan face public scrutiny over a private Australian visit, with critics urging them to fund it entirely themselves.
The couple insists the trip is privately financed, contrasting the petition’s 35,000 signatories with Australia’s total population.
Concurrently, Meghan’s upcoming women’s retreat faces logistical challenges as the hotel works to finish renovations before the April event.
Bulleted Takeaways
- Over 35,000 Australians signed a petition asking for no taxpayer money to be spent on the Sussexes’ visit.
- The petition highlights cost-of-living pressures including rising grocery and energy costs.
- The couple’s spokesperson insists the trip is privately funded and dismisses the petition’s influence.
- Meghan’s Her Best Life Retreat in Sydney is sold out but the hosting hotel’s facilities are incomplete.
- Environmental and construction concerns at the beach and hotel may affect guest experience.
