Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Australia trip has barely begun. Amidst this, everyone has their eyes on who pays to keep them safe. Australians have reportedly reacted angrily after two police forces confirmed they will provide security during the Sussexes’ visit, despite the couple traveling as private citizens on the tour. The issue has sparked online backlash. Now, there is renewed debate over whether public resources should support the couple’s plans when parts of the trip include paid appearances.
Australians are reportedly livid about Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s security arrangements
Radar Online exclusively reported that the New South Wales Police Force said it would conduct operations to maintain “public safety” during Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s visit to Australia. They added that it will “require some additional security measures throughout their stay in New South Wales.
At the same time, they aim to minimize any disruption to the community.” The Victoria Police reportedly confirmed it would “deploy resources as necessary to ensure community safety” while the Sussexes are in Melbourne.
This will reportedly happen around a paid speaking appearance for Harry on April 16 at a workplace mental health conference.
The public resistance prompted a petition demanding that no taxpayer money be spent on the couple’s visit. It was titled “No Taxpayer-Funding or Official Support for Harry & Meghan’s Private Visit to Australia!”. Radar Online reported that the petition received over 46,000 signatures. Moreover, it is being sent to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, and Attorney General and Cabinet Secretary Mark Dreyfus.
However, the Sussexes’ spokesperson reportedly dismissed the petition. They insisted the trip is privately funded, calling it a “moot point.”
Still, critics have kept at it, especially because the itinerary includes both charitable visits and commercial events. This included Prince Harry’s speech at the InterEdge Summit in Melbourne. On the other hand, Meghan Markle was set for a “fireside chat” Q&A at a women’s wellness retreat in Sydney.
