King Charles III of Britain expressed his deep affection for Australia as he embarked on a visit to the country, which is one of 14 countries outside Britain where he remains the head of state. However, there are growing debates in Australia and other nations on whether they should become republics and cut ties with the British monarchy. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had previously expressed openness to holding a republic referendum, but the government stated that it was not a priority ahead of Charles’ visit. Last year, Australia had opted to feature an Indigenous design on its new $5 bill instead of an image of Charles, indicating steps away from the royal family.
The royal visit to Australia faced challenges as the premiers of the country’s six states declined attendance at a reception at Parliament House in Canberra. While representatives from each state attended the event, the absence of the premiers was criticized as a snub by some. The political group advocating for Australia to become a republic, the Australian Republic Movement, launched a campaign to brand Charles’ visit as a farewell tour. Despite the controversies and debates surrounding his visit, Charles displayed a willingness to make the trip, highlighting the importance of the realms and the Commonwealth to him and his reign.
The debate over Australia’s potential transition to a republic stems from differing opinions among Australians. A YouGov poll revealed that about one-third of Australians support moving to a republic, while 35% prefer to remain a constitutional monarchy. A successful referendum to make Australia a republic would require a majority vote both nationwide and in at least four of the six states, a challenging feat based on historical referendum outcomes. The push for Australia to become a republic follows the example of Barbados, which recently removed the British monarch as its head of state while remaining part of the Commonwealth.
The tensions surrounding Charles’ visit to Australia extended to the symbolic tribute at the Sydney Opera House, with differing viewpoints on its significance. The Australian Monarchist League viewed the tribute as a fitting gesture to welcome the royal couple, while the Australian Republic Movement saw it as an opportunity to celebrate a head of state chosen by and for Australians. Despite the challenges and divisions, the visit continued as planned with Charles and Queen Camilla continuing on to Samoa for a state visit. At the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, Charles aimed to highlight the threat of climate change to Pacific island states, underscoring the ongoing relevance of the Commonwealth and its member nations in addressing global challenges.
