The Royal Visit

As the King and Queen prepare for their October visit to Australia, the nation remains divided on the potential impact of their arrival. We asked Caféstudy members their thoughts on whether this visit would bolster the economy and tourism, or whether it represents a costly relic of colonial times. Here’s what they're saying...

Excitement and Nostalgia:

For some Australians, the Royal visit is a rare and exciting opportunity. Approximately 15% of respondents expressed excitement about the visit, emphasising its cultural significance and the chance to see royalty in person, with a sense of pride among those who appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the monarchy.

Costly and Outdated:

However, not everyone shares a similar enthusiasm for the visit. A significant portion—around 16% of respondents—expressed concern over the financial burden of the visit, arguing that the money could be better spent on pressing domestic issues like healthcare and social inequalities.

The visit's relevance in modern Australia was also called into question, with several respondents viewing it as a relic of colonialism. They argued that the monarchy no longer aligns with Australia's evolving identity, which is increasingly independent and diverse. For these individuals, the Royal visit serves as a reminder of a colonial past that they believe should be left behind as the country forges its own path.

Indifference and Regional Disappointment:

Interestingly, 67% of respondents expressed either indifference or mixed feelings toward the upcoming Royal visit. For some, the visit had flown entirely under the radar, with many unaware that the King and Queen were even planning to visit Australia. This lack of awareness highlights a general disconnection or disinterest in royal affairs among certain segments of the population. This is consistent with findings from recent polls, which show that certain segments of the population, particularly younger Australians, feel disconnected from or indifferent to the monarchy​ (University of Melbourne, 2020). 

Additionally, some respondents expressed disappointment not due to the visit itself, but because their own regions were excluded from the Royal itinerary. This exclusion left them feeling overlooked and disheartened, particularly those in areas that have historically had strong ties to the monarchy or who were personally eager to participate in the event.

Economic Impact of Royal Visits:

Royal visits are often accompanied by significant costs, which are primarily funded by the host nation's taxpayers. In Australia, these costs can run into millions of dollars, covering security, transportation, and other logistical needs for the Royal family. The 2014 Royal Visit cost Australian taxpayers an estimated $1.5 million, raising concerns about the justification for such expenses, particularly in a time of economic strain (Tourism Australia, 2020).

Critics argue that while the Royal visit might attract some tourism revenue, it is unlikely to offset the substantial taxpayer expenditure. This sentiment is echoed by many Australians who question the relevance of the monarchy in modern Australia, especially given that these funds could be redirected towards more urgent domestic needs, such as healthcare or addressing homelessness.

So what does this mean for the typical Aussie?

The upcoming Royal visit has clearly stirred a range of emotions among Australians. While some look forward to the event with excitement and nostalgia, others view it as an unnecessary expense that reflects outdated values. The divide in opinions underscores the ongoing debate about the monarchy's role in Australia and whether such visits still hold relevance in today’s society.

As the October visit approaches, it will be interesting to see how the nation reacts and whether the Royal presence will indeed bring the anticipated boost to the economy and tourism, or if it will merely pass as a costly reminder of a colonial past.

References:
Tourism Australia. (2024). The economic importance of tourism. Retrieved from https://www.tourism.australia.com/en/insights/tourism-statistics/the-economic-importance-of-tourism.html
University of Melbourne. (2020). Despite strong gains in 2020 Australians remain disengaged with politics, poll finds. Retrieved from https://www.unimelb.edu.au/newsroom/news/2020/october/despite-strong-gains-in-2020-australians-remain-disengaged-with-politics,-poll-finds