King Charles III’s recent tour of Australia sparked a mix of excitement and controversy, showcasing both strong support for the monarchy and simmering tensions about its future in the country.
The 75-year-old monarch, who will soon turn 76, was welcomed by crowds eager to see him, even as debates about removing him as head of state continue to gain traction.
King Charles in Sydney
During the visit, Charles faced a public protest led by Senator Lidia Thorpe, who accused the king of “genocide” in reference to Britain’s colonial history.
The senator’s outburst during Charles’ speech to the Australian parliament was direct, calling for the return of land and justice for Indigenous Australians.
Despite this, royal supporters highlighted the large crowds that greeted the king as proof that there is still affection for him down under.
At the same time, Australian state premiers chose not to attend a reception in honor of the king, a move that stirred controversy.
Dan Wootton, a former GB News presenter, shared footage of Charles and Queen Camilla greeting the public in Sydney, writing, “Cancer-stricken King Charles and Queen Camilla are getting a rapturous welcome in Australia, dashing the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s republican hopes.” Wootton criticized the premiers, suggesting they made a mistake by snubbing the king.
It’s like 1983 again!
Cancer-stricken King Charles and Queen Camilla are getting a rapturous welcome in Australia, dashing the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s republican hopes.
The rude state premiers who snubbed meeting their head of state should feel particularly stupid. pic.twitter.com/iLJ3mdi9YJ— Dan Wootton (@danwootton) October 20, 2024
Meanwhile, a monarchist group shared their thoughts on social media, stating, “Record crowds to welcome Their Majesties. We love the security our system of constitutional monarchy provides.”
The tour comes at a time when debates about the future of the monarchy in Australia are heating up. A September 2023 YouGov poll revealed that 32 percent of Australians want to remove the king as head of state, while 35 percent support keeping the constitutional monarchy.
A more recent survey indicated a growing divide, with 45 percent opposing a republic and 33 percent in favor.
Australia is not alone in these discussions. Across the Commonwealth, several nations are reconsidering their ties to the British crown. Countries like Jamaica are considering public votes on whether to break away from the monarchy.
Despite the protests and political discussions, King Charles’ visit showed that, for many Australians, the monarchy remains a significant and cherished institution, even as others push for change.