October 14th 2024.
As the highly anticipated state visit of King Charles and Queen Camilla to Australia draws near, reports have revealed that they will not be receiving a warm welcome from some of the country's top politicians. Despite the grand reception planned for the royal couple in Canberra, it seems that the premiers from all six states have declined to attend, citing prior commitments as the reason for their absence.
This visit holds great significance for the King, as it will be his first trip to Australia since his cancer diagnosis and his first overseas visit since taking the throne. With permission from his doctors, he will briefly pause his cancer treatments to embark on this trip, which also includes a state visit to Samoa in the South Pacific. Upon their arrival, the royal couple will be greeted by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The decision of the state premiers to snub the King has sparked criticism from some sections of the Australian media and has reignited conversations about the country's relationship with the British monarchy. Premier Jacinta Allan of Victoria has confirmed that she will not be attending, but expressed her pleasure at the King's visit. When asked about her views on Australia becoming a republic, she stated that while she would support it, it is not a top priority for her at this time.
This stance is mirrored by other state leaders, such as Peter Malinauskas of South Australia and Steven Miles of Queensland, who have also declined to attend due to prior commitments. A recent poll suggests that a third of Australians would like to see the country become a republic, while almost half believe that they should remain a monarchy. The Australian Republic Movement, a group advocating for Australia to have its own head of state, has been vocal in their opposition to the King's visit, even selling merchandise labeling it as a "farewell tour."
In response to this criticism, a spokesperson for the movement stated that it is time for Australia to elect a local as their head of state. They believe that someone who can work for Australia full time would be better suited for the role. In a letter exchange with the Republican Movement, the King expressed that the decision of whether Australia becomes a republic is ultimately up to the Australian public to decide.
Despite the controversy surrounding their visit, the King and Queen will be away for 11 days, with the tour lasting nine days and two days of travel on either side. This will be the King's most significant overseas trip since becoming monarch, and it is clear that it will continue to spark debates about Australia's future as a republic.
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