Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are scheduled to visit Australia for a four-day tour from April 14, 2026, with stops in Sydney and Melbourne. This tour marks their first return to Australia since their visit in 2018, shortly after their wedding.
During the tour, Prince Harry will serve as a keynote speaker at InterEdge’s psychosocial safety summit, where the cost for virtual attendance is set at $498, while a platinum experience at the summit will cost $2,378.65. Meanwhile, Meghan will headline the three-day ‘Her Best Life’ retreat in Sydney, with accommodations priced at $2,699 and VIP experiences available for $3,199.
The couple’s children, Archie and Lilibet, will remain in California during their parents’ visit. The tour is described as a “faux-royal” tour, distinguishing it from official royal engagements. Although the couple is privately funding the tour, some costs will be covered by taxpayers, raising concerns among the public.
Approximately 43,000 people have signed a petition opposing the use of taxpayer funds for the couple’s security during their stay. The New South Wales Police have confirmed that additional security measures will be implemented to ensure safety while minimizing disruption to the community.
Giselle Bastin, a commentator on the tour, criticized the pricing of the wellness retreat, stating, “Having to flog $3,000 tickets to a wellness retreat looks quite pointless in the current world climate. It’s tin-eared.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns regarding the couple’s financial decisions amid ongoing discussions about their public image.
Despite the controversies, some observers view this tour as a significant joint venture that could set a precedent for future collaborations. The Beyond Australia advocacy group has expressed concerns, stating, “This directly contradicts those assurances and raises serious concerns about transparency and the use of public resources.”
As the tour approaches, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full itinerary and additional events. The couple’s engagement with various organizations, including Invictus Australia and the Royal Children’s Hospital, is anticipated but not yet finalized.
