Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Australia Visit: A Test Run for a Potential UK Return
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent visit to Australia was more than just a casual overseas appearance. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex used the four-day trip as a practical test for a potential future joint visit to the UK. This visit was significant as Meghan had not returned to Britain in years, and Prince Harry had emphasized the importance of security for any family return.
According to reports, insiders viewed the Australia trip as a "dummy run" and a "testing ground" for a possible joint visit to the UK. The visit was seen as a blueprint for future tours together, including private, business, and philanthropic engagements in Sydney and Canberra. This trip was the Sussexes' first visit to Australia since Megxit in 2020.
The Australia visit was directly linked to the UK security issue, with Prince Harry insisting on 24-hour armed security before bringing his family back. The couple was awaiting the outcome of a security review that could impact their future travel plans. If the review went well, Meghan could potentially return to the UK for the 12-month Invictus countdown and the Birmingham tournament next July.
In addition to security concerns, the Australia trip served as an audience test to see how Prince Harry and Meghan were received by royal fans and republicans in Australia. The country has a strong interest in royal coverage, despite putting a hold on another referendum on a republic. While some concerns were raised about taxpayer funding for the visit, sources close to the couple clarified that it was privately funded, with local police covering security costs.
Overall, the Australia trip provided Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with a real-world assessment of whether a joint UK return could be successful. It was a strategic move to test the waters and gather insights for potential future visits.