Overview
- The couple’s spokesperson says the April visit to Sydney and Melbourne will be paid for privately.
- An online petition in Australia has gathered about 35,000 signatures asking the government to spend no taxpayer money on security, logistics, or other costs tied to the visit.
- Their separate schedules include a paid Sydney retreat where Meghan is the honored guest and a Melbourne InterEdge Summit talk by Harry, with tickets reported from about £1,400 and about £1,050 respectively.
- Royal author Tom Bower, quoted in the Daily Telegraph, criticized the tour as a money-making exercise and claimed Meghan was breaking a promise to the late Queen.
- The Times, as relayed by Promiflash, reported that Meghan sought Australian trademarks for her As Ever brand in categories such as cosmetics, fragrances, spices, and drinks.