Prince Harry and his wife Meghan arrived in Australia on Tuesday, marking their first visit to the country since their highly publicised fallout with Britain’s royal family.
The couple landed in Melbourne, where they began a four-day schedule of business and charity engagements, starting with a visit to a children’s hospital.
Harry, the younger son of King Charles III, Australia’s head of state, is expected to address a mental health summit, with in-person tickets priced at a steep Aus$997 ($706).
Meghan is also set to headline a lifestyle-focused gathering described by organisers as a “girls’ weekend like no other” at Sydney’s InterContinental Coogee Beach hotel.
The programme includes yoga sessions, sound healing, dinners and disco dancing, with tickets costing Aus$2,699 per person.
Attendees who opt for a higher-priced package will gain access to a “VIP experience”, which comes with a group table photo with Meghan and a goodie bag.
During their stay, the couple are also scheduled to visit Canberra, according to national broadcaster ABC.
However, the trip has already sparked criticism, with Victoria state opposition leader Jess Wilson condemning the use of taxpayers’ money to provide security for the pair.
This marks their first trip to Australia since 2018, when they undertook a two-week tour that also covered New Zealand and several Pacific islands, drawing large, enthusiastic crowds.
Harry stepped back from royal duties in 2020 before relocating to California with Meghan amid a strained relationship with the royal family.
The couple, who have two children, have consistently raised concerns over media intrusion and Meghan’s treatment by British newspapers following years of negative coverage.
