No State Premier to greet the monarch and Queen Camilla in Canberra amid tense political atmosphere
King Charles is set to begin a nine-day tour of Australia with Queen Camilla this week, but the trip has been clouded by a significant political slight. Several senior Australian politicians, including all State Premiers, have declined invitations to meet the royal couple at a key reception in Canberra on October 21.
Despite the event’s aim to strengthen community ties and promote charitable initiatives, including environmental efforts and domestic violence support, none of the State Premiers will be present to greet the King and Queen. This absence is being viewed as a symbolic "slap in the face" to the royal family.
Pro-royal spokesperson Bev McArthur from the Australian Monarchists League criticised the decision, saying, “All premiers and ministers have pledged their allegiance to our monarch, Charles III, and it is a significant insult that they now disregard his friendly overture.”
Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, is among those who have chosen not to attend, with her parliamentary secretary representing her instead. Other Premiers cited conflicting commitments, such as election campaigns and regional meetings, while Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff will be on a trade mission to the U.S.
This perceived snub comes amid new polling that shows a decline in support for an Australian republic under King Charles compared to the period of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. Despite the chilly reception, King Charles will still engage with political figures, community leaders, and notable Australians from various fields during his visit.
