King and Queen's October visit
Posted by: jules4758
31st Jul 2024 04:16pm
What are everyones thoughts on the upcoming Royal visit in October? Will it boost our economy and tourism, or do we think it’s a costly expense and a relic of colonial times? Will the King and Queen’s visit inspire pride or is it outdated and out of touch? Curious to hear everyones thoughts!
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Comments 159
Biahoii
It' a huge waste of taxpayers money for Australia. We should've become an independent republic years ago.
gilbe
i just can -nt wait to see the new king@QUEEN,, THIS GOING TO BE A VERY SPECIAL DAY,
gilbe
i just can -nt wait to see the new king@QUEEN,, THIS GOING TO BE A VERY SPECIAL DAY,
PukPuk
I wouldnt blame King Charles wanting a break from all the "proverbial" going on in the Royal Family. A trip away may be a welcome respite from dealing with the Cancers (medical & family) they are dealing with at present albeit some of it may be of his own doing. None of us really know but it would be good to see him well enough to do the trip.
Superstar666$
I’m not a royalist - have no interest in royalty but accept that some Australians maybe interested in them. Leave them to the British people !
I vote for a Republic
ellamay
It will probably be an expense that our Government will provide such as high security and accomodation etc. It depends where the tour will go to whether people will come and see them. I still think people will go out of their way to welcome them, lining up on the streets waving flags and shops will have souvenirs to buy. I don't watch TV and haven't heard much about this. Are they coming to all states or just one?
echo 01
Think of all the Republican Australians who are sucking up to the Royals like the republican Govenor General, state Govenor's and the pm willing to put their republican beliefs aside for the money and to meet Our King and Queen. What a load of scabs.
echo 01
Lolica I agree Australia has such a low divorce rate about 50% there would be no mistress in Australia.
lolica
It’s costly unnecessary expense, a mistress who became queen, yuck, don’t like them at all 👎
John3259
Long live the republic. Sorry Royals but you are somewhat obsolete.
lolica
Agree
capfantastic
I wonder if they will be paying a visit to their alleged son? Yes, they had a son who lives in Australia and is married to a First Nations Australian doctor. The royals are yet to take a paternity test to confirm or deny the accusation. If it’s true, this guy is the first in line to the throne and the Queen would be an Aboriginal. I wonder if it would change republican’s minds about the relevance of the monarchy to Australia? Apparently he is going to use their October visit to take them to court. This could get interesting.
joye
Not fussed that they are coming.
Who is paying? I’d Australians then probably not worth it. I don’t think it will help boost the economy or tourism
echo 01
It is to give the republicans a chance to show thier hypocracy by tripping over themselves to bow and scrape to our new King and Queen.
echo 01
Just visiting the colonies to check all is on track.
echo 01
If you are silly enough to give it to them, like candy from a baby.
lolica
And taking money from us
BASH
Outdated and should have stopped when the Queen passed.
PGS
Didn't know they were visiting.
The expense... Like NYE, I'm sure the $ could be put to better use.
***Pottsy***
I hadn't heard about it until you told me. I am glad he is feeling well enough to be making travel plans.
I have no problem with a royal tour. It lifts people's spirits and those who don't care can just ignore all the pomp and ceremony.
The government spends money on worse things.
It isn't about pride. It is about history and traditions.
Yes...traditions can start in any year.
They don't have to be traditions from the day man put his foot in the soil.
The latest King was not involved in any decisions from England that scarred this beautiful land.
We can't blame him for his ancestors sometimes poor choices.
I hope my fellow Australians act with respect, maturity and dignity during the visit....as we would any other visitor to this land.
I will look forward to their arrival
Crazykat
Not coming to W.A. so no further comment to make.
Benji31983093
As I think about the King and Queen's visit in October, I'm torn. Part of me feels a sense of excitement and pride—it's not every day that royalty comes to town, and there's something undeniably special about the tradition and history they represent. It feels like a chance to be part of something bigger, a connection to the past that still holds meaning today.
But at the same time, I can't help but question the relevance of it all. In a world where there are so many pressing issues—inequality, climate change, economic struggles—it feels a bit out of touch to focus on something so ceremonial. I wonder if the resources spent on such visits could be put to better use elsewhere, helping those who really need it.
So, while I appreciate the tradition and the significance of their visit, I also find myself questioning its place in today's world. It's a mix of respect and skepticism, trying to reconcile the past with the realities of the present.
Robyn
I am not fussed one way or the other. I think King Charles wants to show his Queen the country where he did some of his schooling. However, I will not be travelling out of state to view them. I have little respect for Camilla and believe all this is waste of money. I think it would have been more appropriate to have the future King and Queen visit and include all the states!
Kiwi47
I’m happy they are coming I am not into us becoming a republic as think only the very rich will be voted in
jtmorri
I can't see the Royal trip boosting the economy and tourism. People won't travel from other countries to see them, and I can't see people flocking from country towns at a time when farm work is demanding. Any Royal visit by the British Monarchy is at the expense of the country they are visiting for travel, accommodation, food, touring around and the gifts given to them.
I feel King Charles and Royal Consort Camilla are more in touch with the public and also very mindful of not being extravagant along with their own environmental impact, than Queen Elizabeth ever was. For this reason, I don't mind King Charles. I don't see him as pretentious. The 1999 republic referendum didn't offer an alternative as the model had the federal parliament choosing the head of state and not the people.
It will be good for them to visit with a reduced itinerary and schedule. Some people will enjoy it (even be excited), and the children will all be lined up with flags to welcome them. The occasion is one for Australia to show what we have to offer, industries, culture, cuisine, our achievements and also our hospitality. If the people participating in such meet and greets and visits feel pride then all the better for them for being recognised for their courage, innovation or achievements. For these people it will be a once in a lifetime occurrence. I don't feel it is outdated as it is sharing and celebrating together and not a motherland encouraging an outpost colony. When a head of state from another country visits, Australia is still footing the bill, so I'd rather that it be the British monarchy over others that the taxpayer foots the bill for.
Personally, I won't be going to see them, however I do see it as being worthwhile for building relationships and connecting people.
Donzie
Any other king would have been ok, but not this one. I can't see that it would boost our economy either. William and Kate would have been more appealing...
crypticpat
Costly exercise which will only interest dyed-in-the-wool monarchists. Who else would be interested in this fairly boring aged couple?
leafyleaf
It seems to me it will advance the discussion on governance, an Australian republic, the illegal and violent invasions, and First Nations entitlement.
These are all difficult discussions, and all needed.
So31553007
Not think it will be the case, it will cause taxplayer money. At the end it will just spend. It will not boost the economy, as it is outdated.
Wise Woman
Our tie to the British Royal Family is totally outdated and not consistent with our multi-cultural population. I support a Republic, and I blame John Howard for the confusion he injected into the Referendum with the discussion about voting for a Govenor General. As far as I am concerned the Governor General would still be appointed by the ruling Government and his duties would consist of holding and kissing babies - he will have no power. It is unfortunate that as I am now 73, I will not be alive to see us become a Republic.
leafyleaf
It is unfortunate. But perhaps this will advance the discussion
Snake
do we think it’s a costly expense and a relic of colonial times? Will the King and Queen’s visit inspire pride or is it outdated and out of touch? ....All of that , but I think the elderly will benefit most because of the nostalgia of it all and the very young will enjoy it because it might mean a bit of a holiday and the chance to wave a flag. Me? I was born in England but have spent over 5O years of my life here although I did spend time in the army over there. So much changes over nearly100 years and attitudes are very different, but it could boost tourism. Most people I meet still think Australia is the Lucky Country and would like to live here.
Lilian31978902
I think it will inspire pride. But it's important for it to not be too costly too
foo
No great loss if they do no visit, just more expense to the Australian taxpayer, royalty has passed its use by date.
squeekums
didnt know they were coming
dont care
sure wont travel to see them
normarand
I'm disappointed the Royal visit isn't coming to Melbourne. I would love to have seen our new King but there is no way I can get to Sydney or Canberra in October. Oh well, maybe next time!
Trina32082520
What a good service
NOBODY GENIUS
It will instill pride because the British made this country the successful nation that it is. God save the King 👑
leafyleaf
OMG
jatz50
I grew up hearing about the Queen and actually got to see her once driving past and then when working in Martin Place, we got a great view of Charles & Diana when they visited Sydney. I absolutely loved the Queen and I wouldn't go out to see King Charles or Camilla but I know of people out there that would love to go and see them visit Australia. I guess it's just a short visit as they aren't coming to Qld to see us at all. It will be interesting to see who does go and see them when they arrive though. I will just read about it in my magazine I buy and see it on the news.
jrmag
It is supposed to be a commonwealth visit but they are only going to two places waste of time if you ask me
Bronterose
I grew up with respecting royalty, standing for the National Anthem at the cinema, saluting the flag at school and of course there was always a large photo of Queen Elizabeth in our classroom. So hard now to undo that respect so I guess it will always stay with me. I do think though they should foot the bill for any country they visit in the Commonwealth, at the present time Australia can least afford it. I doubt very much that their visit will boost our economy and tourism, so many Australians think ‘republic’ these days and won’t go out of their way to see them plus memories of Diana and the way she was treated still lingers.
y_not
The visit is an amazing opportunity for Australia. Sadly I've heard there will be no visit to Queensland. This is unacceptable, we are named after the Kings mother. He is showing no respect for her memory.
leafyleaf
🙂 It does tend to be a long time between queens (in their own right) 👸 Easy to mix these matters up.
y_not
Oops, I apologise for my ignorance. Definitely needed correcting 😁
leafyleaf
The state of Queensland was named after Charles' great-great-great grandmother, Victoria
wazzat1
Nobody I know cares about the visit at all. I grew up in the 50/60s and was very much interested in those days. Now, meh!
Patto1
Would be better if both of them stayed at home. There is no place for them in Australia.
Miss19
Personally it doesn't interest me but I'm sure there are many people in Australia that would be excited. I don't know for certain if it will boost our economy and tourism but I don't feel like it would. Realistically, are people from outside of Australia going to travel here just to see the King and the Queen? It seems unlikely. Overall, I am not pleased that we have to be funding their trip to Australia. They are extremely wealthy and they should be paying for it themselves and not at the cost of the taxpayer. Frankly, I find it insulting that we would have to pay for it. In this economy and with people struggling to put food on the table or finding a place to live our tax money should be used for things that will benefit us and not to further enrich others.
Keerah1
I’m not interested in seeing any Royals. To me they are people who are wealthy. That’s it. Yes I think it will boost the economy and tourism cause there are quite a few out there that love the Royals. Yes I feel it will be a costly event. Cause any occasion like these ones are all about MONEY. Welcome gifts, hotel stays, attractions, food, travel etc is all to do with costs. I’m not sure if it inspires PRIDE. It does get a gathering of people that are curious about this situation/event.
Tuzy
The royal visit in October is of no interest to me. I will not be making any effort to see them as I am not a royalist in any way. I don't believe it will be a boost to our economy it is just a costly expense as they are to the British economy.
Andrew 31639627
King Charles did spend some time in Geelong, so he has some connection at least. For me the Royal family and its institution is an outdated concept that ties too closely to class distinctions, colonialism and is irrelevant to the Australian context. Though how we change and move forward is a conundrum.
maryanne62
Its always an exciting thing to see royalty.
i got to see Andrew and Fergie up close when they visited my town years ago. The crowd wasnt too big but it was very exciting.
Im not sure how big a crowd the king and queen will generate but I would go out to see them if they came my way.
kezwaar
Wow going to cost us a packet of money for this visit and I would love to see the input into our economy, I personally don’t give a flying monkeys come don’t come some people are royalists and good for them. There are a few people I would hold up on a pedestal like Michael J Fox, Steven Hawkins , Madam Curie to name a few but I can’t really see what The Empire does for us in Australia these days but I could be wrong about that.
Talib31580367
Welcome to the Royal visit to Australia
Jodilee
Charles was the best of the bunch, but we just don't need them at all; clinging to old Colonial ideals is impeding Australia from reaching its potential as a republic. I agree with the points of view that it will cost Australia a bomb and for what? What has the British royal family done for us? This country is a mess because it fails to recognise the brutality of its history, from Brisith colonialist settlement by its poor, its disenfranchised and its criminals, to oversight by a bitter anglophilic landed gentry to the genocide and brutalisation of our First Nations peoples. The British empire is well in decline and we should kindly and gently divest ourselves of its monarchy. Not my king.
Rossissmellingtheroses
Many are deeply interested in the Royals & the Commonwealth. If the visit satisfies that interest, then it is a good thing & a distraction from the world's troubles. After all, we are part of the Commonwealth & that is still a source of comfort for many.
bev1410
So 110% not interested in them coming to Australia. This will cost ratepayers a hooch of money and I'm guessing a very big % of residents don't want to contribute, but the ratepayers will have no choice but to pay.
ivory
All my life royals have been visiting Australia. It's part of our culture. Why would we want to stop now?
clem_lun
I don't mind it either way. It may boost Sydney's economy, assuming they would visit the biggest city. I have a feeling this may be King Charles' last hurrah as he ages.
GK31610191
Well, it depends how much taxpayers money will be used to please them. It could be beneficial for tourism but in my opinion , people are no longer interested in "Royalism".
BCafeS15
Could be good for the economy. People might spend big to see them.
Sue3263
I am 70 years old.
I am really looking forward to the visit.
I am very proud to be part of the Commonwealth.
It will definitely inspire pride, possibly not with the younger generation, but definitely the older.
It could boost economy, but it's only a short visit to certain places.
Anything that encourages peace and calm and not war and fighting, it has to be a good thing.
Can't wait.
kelster83
To be honest I cannot really see the benefit of it except for those who are very loyal to the monarchy. I hope it doesn't impact the King too much health wise.
Zanyt
I think having the King and Queen visit is great. King Charles is very approachable and easy to talk to. I remember meeting Prince Charles as he was then in Hobart in 2012 and he spent alot of time talking to people and asking questions. I would rather spend money on a royal visit and it would probably cost less than what the politician cost us every year with all their traveling around for nothing.
kitkat16
Yes l think we should have the King and Queen, but l agree they should pay more and not the country pay for all of it. t think it's absolutely essentional that the Royal Family goes and visits their countries, seeing as are all part of the Commmonwealth, a percentage on the country and the wealth
helhy
I really don't care one way or the other, it's nice that they want to visit and I hope that they enjoy their trip here.
Michael31984373
I don’t think the royals are ‘relevant’ these days, but at the same time it’s important to stay in touch with our history. You need to know where we’ve been to know where we are going in future.
Genie11
This is a ‘loaded’ question and serves only to inspire negativity. The Royal visit will polarise people, as it always does.
The King has always had a soft spot for Australia, has always spoken affectionately about this country in which he spent time at school. Amid his current health issues which he has seemingly navigated with dignity and grace, he wants to come here, now as King, not to laud it over us but to tip his hat to this country that he loves. He would see it not as a duty but as a way of acknowledging the links between our two countries. He understands (as did his Mother) and is acutely aware of the groundswell of opinion that Australia should become a ‘republic’. In fact the Queen accepted it as something that would happen. He’s not coming here to actively work against the will of the people! Tradition and connections are dirty words these days but what are we without our history? Where will our collective ‘roots’ find sustenance if we sneer at, and throw off our past leaving us adrift and squinting at a future with no sense of belonging.
So forget about the visit as a money earner (can we please stop putting a $$$ value on everything we do). And out of touch with what exactly?? We need to stop flailing around in this country desperately trying to find where we belong and who we are! We already have it, and we are so lucky!
RainbowC
I think that we should honour our British heritage as much as we honour our aboriginal heritage. We are all equals and the monarchy is a great way to do that and keep some sort of accountability for our government. A government seems to like to go rogue when unsupervised, so best we have some accountability.
clazza
I am a bit torn. I have a weird fascination with all things Royal and would have been interested in seeing the King and Queen if they had been visiting South Australia. On the other hand, taxpayers should not be having to fit the bill and they should be paying their own way. I think a lot of people (myself included) do pay attention to where they are visiting and it could potentially draw a little bit of tourism, but they should still pay for their own travel expenses.
Marie-Clare
I thinks it is a bit outdated for Australia. They are the monarchy of Great Britain and while we respect their presence in Australia, Australian Society has moved on from colonial times I think.
donny
Happy for them to come here but they should not expect the taxpayer to foot the bill. I dont want to hear the old chestnut that they will bring in millons in revenue. That is not what happens. And I think that the hypocracy of the pro Republic politicians (eg Labor) will be sickening, as they, especially Albo, will fawn and grovel over them. And the media, and of course, especially the rags like Womens Weekly and New Idea et al will make millions out of it. Speaking of the fawning, grovelling Politicians and the rag media, let THEM pay the cost of the Royal visit, said to be about $2.5million. Oh, fat chance of that, you say!!!
jojo
Is good but unfortunately they will miss out New Zealand on this visit
godsbaby
I am happy for them to visit our beautiful country. To enjoy our peace & open spaces. It is never out of fashion to welcome a friend/ neighbour.
Jinja
Times have changed since The Prince and Princess of Wales, (Charles & Diana's) visit. I think it will be a costly event, with people not showing the support the Royals once had.
jann
I THINK ITS A GOOD THING AND THAT KING CHARLES IS WELL ENOUGH TO TRAVEL I HAVE MET HIM IN ENGLAND A LONG TIME AGO AND WOULD LOVE TO SEE HIM AGAIN
Peter
I am stoked at the visit. I have been so close to Queen (physically) on her various visits to places in the UK and in France. Now I might get close up to the King and Queen. Charles 1st. had an unhappy ending, Charles 2nd.'s ending was not too good so God Save King Charles 3rd. Diana and Cam illa asre descended from Charles 2nd. and Prince William may well be the next King descended directly from Charles 2nd!
ab
This is an interesting topic
Will it boost our economy and tourism, or do we think it’s a costly expense and a relic of colonial times?
This one is a double barrel question… I really don’t know if there is a cost benefit to a royal visit, I’ve never investigated it. But you’d think if there was financial gain, EVERYONE would pony-up the money simply because you’d come out ahead. Maybe a royal visit is like an Olympics, you pay the cost of staging it, in the hope that the tourism and advertising generated will bring you out on top.
A relic of colonial times? The answer to this is self-evident in the question. Yes, it’s a remnant of our colonial beginnings.
Will the King and Queen’s visit inspire pride or is it outdated and out of touch?
Another double barrel Q
Inspire pride? No, for me pride is inspired when someone close to me does something great… and then I’m not only proud of their achievement, I vicariously bask in the glory showered on them. When the King and Queen visit, it’s a bit like o oh, mum and dad and coming over… I better do the lawn and tidy the place up. LOL
Is it outdated and out of touch? This is the better question and what was alluded to above when you asked about a relic of colonial times.
Are Kings and Queens (globally) an antiquated form of rule in a modern world? Probably, but they are a romantic notion of humankind’s past… the idea of a leader being chosen by divine providence. I’m reminded of the scene in Monty Python the Holy Grail…
…
I am your King!
Well, I didn’t vote for you.
You don’t vote for Kings!
Well, how do you become the King, then?
…😂
Am I going to rush out and see them, no… even if I made the effort of going in to town, at 167 cm, I’m not seeing anything unless I’m in front. LOL
I wish them well and hope they have good weather on the day.
Jbag
Paying for the monarchies holiday, no thank you. I also think that the public's interest is slowly dwindling but is already to the point where the visit is certainly costing more than its making for the country. Australia is such a diverse and multicultural country nowadays and I think only the recent English descendants and the bored are actually interested.
Char
Not bothered
JDB
This does not interest me at all. Good for all the English people living in Australia
gilbe
this is a very special days,, great to see the king and queen, i lived in london solo. for about ten-years this a big must for me god save the king ,,,
gilbe
this is a very special days,, great to see the king and queen, i lived in london solo. for about ten-years this a big must for me god save the king ,,,
Lukey23
It may be good to see it but also security going to be tight everywhere. With threat levels high here too maybe its best not to be around large crowds.
Ellie 30656027
I think it’ll attract tourists although costly
dicky a
Wish they were coming to Victoria , particularly as the King spent a time at GGS' Timbertop campus...but as this State's Governor is a Republican ( how on earth does this work) and the State Government has virtually killed the Comm Games ...why would they bother ?
Oh..and the useless State is bankrupt and can't pay for any such visit.
Many thanks Dictator and your subservient successor
Phlippa
I have absolutely no interest in the Monarchy. What good do they do for us really?
Anonymous
The monarchy is an outdated concept for a country like Australia.
Zelda
I don't like King Charles and especially not so called Queen Camilla. I feel that in many ways, the royal family are just becoming figureheads. I know that there are still quite a lot of people who like to follow the royal family, so I guess a royal visit will be nice for them.
dee
It is not outdated and should be welcomed.
GeneralFuzzy
I believe that it will just be costly and ultimately pointless. Monarchies should be abolished
BigRev
Another huge cost to Australian taxpayers hosting multimillionaires who bludge on the public purse in "their" own country. Enough. If they really cared about Australia let them cut the apron strings and announce the independence of it, instead of having OUR laws needing ratification from them.
Kiwi47
i look forward to their visit i hate that the younger people don’t get the pride we have always had for the royal family
saintrobbie
Waste of tax payers money people dont want Charles and her we want republic anyway shes not a queen just a lover for charles
KennethS
"we want republic anyway"
Do we! Remind me what was the result of the last Republic Referendum.
Kiwi47
i don’t want a republic and end up like USA money money money gets you the president
Marivig
It is lovely having the King and Queen coming to Australia, but Western Australia is always left out. There are a lot of ex Brits here in Perth, and it would be nice to be thought of once in a while.
mustang6000
These visits have limited significance in today's Australia when a large percentage of our population is not of British decent. Sure, 50 years ago there was still a strong link to the UK and Queen Elizabeth II was much respected, now not so much and I think that this visit will pass with limited public interest.
With the current economic pressures , the funds spent on a Royal visit would be better off directed towards relieving cost of living stress, health or infrastructure needs.
Mawsie
I think the Monarchy is very outdated, and as well I don't think the country can afford their visit, if they want to have a trip down under, then they should foot the bill.
mazzab2003
Although it is a costly endeavour, I think it will help inspire our Union with Royalty and the Monarchy
l0lapx
The Royal Visit, has no relevance to many Australians, Our ancestry is not the UK and we don't want it to be. We came, we worked and contributed to Australia, not some King/Queen. This is a waste of taxpayer's money, The Royals visits have never had a positive financial result. But some live in fake reality and enjoy it. To each his own.
r23
The King and Queen's visit to Australia this October is sure to be a momentous occasion. For many, it will be a celebration of our heritage and a reminder of the long-standing ties between Australia and the British monarchy. Royal visits often evoke a sense of pride and nostalgia, highlighting the shared history and cultural connections that have shaped our nation.
Events like this can also foster a sense of unity and national pride, bringing communities together in celebration. Whether through public appearances, charitable engagements, or cultural events, the visit is likely to generate widespread interest and excitement.
However, it's also an opportunity to reflect on what these royal connections mean in the context of modern Australia. While some may see the monarchy as a symbol of continuity and tradition, others might view it as less relevant to Australia's evolving identity. The visit can inspire discussions on how we balance our heritage with contemporary values and the future direction of our national identity.
In any case, the visit will undoubtedly be a significant event, sparking conversations and reflections on our history, present, and future. For me personally monarchy is just a reminder of an era that's becoming more distant with time.
KennethS
I am all in favour of Royalty as Head of State, it beats having a Politician hands down.
Just keep in mind that Politicians are not impartial, and no matter what high motives they may enter Public office with, few have the support of more than half the electorate, and power corrupts and most end up as self serving scumbags.
I have met Prince Charles on 2 occasions when I was a serving officer in the RAF, and he came across as adecent chap, and a friend of min, a Kiwi RAF Police officer, Flight Lieutenant Bruce Morton was Prince Charles' Bodyguard while he was with the RAF, and his opinion was he is a bloody good bloke with a wicked sense of humour. Unhappily he got a very bad press for not standing up to his father and refusing to marrying Diana Spenser, whom he had no close affinity, which doomed the relationship from day 1. Just ask yourselves how would you like your parents to select your marriage partner for you, and brook no dissent.
To repeat it, King Charles as titular Head of State, warts and all, beats having any Politician as Head of State. Welcome King Charles and Queen Camilla, they have goodwill for Australia, return the good will.
leafyleaf
Safeguard against what? Invasion, genocide, war?
Nah, doesn't really seem to improve matters.
Juliette31984417
Agree republics have massive problems if the wrong people get in power - look at the US how it is disintegrating.
Also there are very few Australian politicians who are not self serving and out for themselves, and also very few who look beyond the partisanship of their political parties and actually govern for a range of people. The upswing of a political wedge party based upon a religious and ethnic community is an issue - not so much for the people who are drawn to this group but more for the elevation of small interest group and point of view above the whole range of the australian people, who should be equal in theory in the face of the government. Luckily the DLP which was the last religious based party in Australia has faded somewhat, but with the world the way it is, I think the new party will not fade so conveniently
Royalty is symbolic, they belong to no-one and to everyone - and because they have symbolic power they do not need to pursue actual power. So they are a safeguard
Juliette31984417
Whatever you think of monarchy, or the sad story of Princess Diana being married to a man who was in love with someone else, let's not forget that King Charles is one of few prominent world celebrities who have consistently advocated for the environment, who have tried to implement green alternatives in food production and also building and town planning and who have offered up criticism of manic economic development and overconsumption for its own sake. There are few alternative voices out there who are so widely reported by the mainstream media as Charles, so he makes a very valuable contribution to the public sphere, more so than many of the self centred celebrities and sporting and media personalities.
he has been speaking on behalf of organic foods and the environment for decades before it has become a topic of widespread discussion
Another major initiative and intervention instituted by Charles is the Princes Trust now the Kings Trust which provides support for young people in training, education and business, especially young people in difficult economic situations, in minority cultures, with disabilities etc to be able obtain specialist training, qualify for university, set up start-up business, find stable employment and turn their lives around
https://kingstrust.us/about-us/
Idris Elba was a successful alumnus of the trust who turned his life around and has become globally famous - he is not a keen advocate for the trust and what it can do for youth and young people
https://www.royal.uk/news-and-activity/2024-07-12/the-king-and-idris-elba-join-kings-trust-discussion-on-youth
We need more people in the world who have the courage to think outside the box and even actually try and get some of these alternative ideas into effective production.
Juliette31984417
I made a typo in this and need to correct it
Idris Elba is NOW a major ambassador for the Kings Trust and how it turns young people's lives around in many countries Africa, UK, Australia, Canada and now even the US
stewart bookworm
They would be mainly visiting the Eastern States, and unfortunately certain people will be groveling over status. expense is usually covered by a certain trust set up in the era of George III. There could not much interaction with the ordinary citizens who would be kept well away from them. Personally, rather have them then an American or Russian type rule.
doxdeb
I think it is a good thing as it probably be the last time this king and queen will visit Australia. I think it is a good thing and am proud of the royal family and our relationship to it
marktime
Well holy dooly , i was going to say while i thought it is some what outdated Kate and William and kids had sort of slowed the tide regards the republic debate, but that does not seem to be the view on the answers i have read on here so far. But as someone did say it might get War stories off the front pages for a week or so..
MumAils
I think it's a good thing that they are visiting Australia. We need some 'good news' topics at this point in time. The world seems to be full of doom and gloom.
It will also show the world that Australia is capable of hosting the King and Queen of England for a visit.
suzel
We need to be a republic.
KennethS
Quentin Bryce was Labor Party elite, look who her son-in-law is, and was politically appointed on that basis. It is just fortunate that no political issues occurred that tested her impartiality, like occurred on Kerr's watch.
An impartial non aligned Queens representative, such as Generals Sir Peter Cosgrove and David Hurley are prime examples and beat a political appointee every time.
Juliette31984417
I once was at a reception in QLD where Ms Bryce when GG was somewhat under the influence of the lavish catering and entertainment budget at a previous event that same day and proceeded to talk down to the assembled alfs and say [when you could understand what she was saying] what wonderful furniture and paintings she had in her office at Kirribilli and you folks in the audience did not. I thought only Sir John Kerr had that issue
suzel
Head of state does not need to be a politician. Quentin Βryce and William Deane both did good jobs as GG.
KennethS
Nominate a Politician who the majority of the people will hold in more regard than King Charles III.
Parsimony
Perhaps chuckie can present Ben Roberts Smith with his award from the king while he is here!
foo
Agree
meatsy
Reconfirms our constitutional democracy which has been working very well for the entirety of our nations history and has allowed us in part to be the tolerant and prosperous nation we are.
wazzat1
Nobody I know cares, really!
redgums
Royal Visit are fantastic it is costly but so is any visit of any head of state or President to our country
Breenie
It will be costly for the Australian taxpayers. Royal visits are an absolute waste of time and money, are outdated and out of touch.
Emerald
Who invited them here ? Who is going to pay for it ? I was born in England but raised in Australia and as far as I am concerned Camilla is no Queen. She split up 2 Marriages to get what she wanted an is no Royal to me ! If they want to visit, let them pay for it like we would have to if we visited England. People should boycott going out to see them.
musicmum
Time to cut ties with the monarchy, what do they do for us Australians? Nothing. They are over privelaged criminals. Look into their history, they are pedos and murderers. The Queen may have been lovely but she knew her history and what was going on but did nothing to stop anything and also was behind getting rid of Diana. They live in such privelaged circumstances and want to keep it that way, whilst so many people in their own country are suffering in such poverty. Disgusting. I wish everyone would boycott their visit. Imagine noone going out to see them? Be a great laugh.
michele49
I'd prefer that our government saved on the cost of hosting them to come to Australia! Our country is so in debt - we don't need the massive expense & I feel that they monarchy is outdated - we need to move on & be independent of colonialism 👌👏👍
michele49
Didn't know that ... Yes they should definitely pay their own way ...but sadly that won't be happening 🤬
musicmum
I agree. They can afford to pay their own way, do you know what the Kings salary is? His net worth is $772 million!
Bob
Who invited them?
hispania
It is a costly expense - very costly. I can't think of two less deserving people on whom to spend money. A royal visit is so out of touch with what is really important. There will be many people who will get quite emotional when the couple visit and they will stand in lines and wave flags and say how lovely these people are but they are ordinary people really with very shaky moral values and who are over-indulged in their home country. I can't see why we aren't capable of running our own country without a below-par couple as head of us and I don't want any of our money to be spent on pageantry for them. Ridiculous in this age.
michele49
Couldn't agree more 👌👍👏
musicmum
I agree but they are not ordinary people they are in a league of their own, over privelaged criminals.
Annacapri
Charlie is a decent enough person but I feel sorry for him ... to be stuck in his anachronistic role. I doubt the visit will boost either our economy or tourism. A great many Australians care nothing for the royal family, one way or the other. The trouble is that we can't transform our Constitution to afford us the protections that we need, in order to be a safe democracy.
musicmum
How can you feel sorry for him? He chose it, does not have to be in the role can hand it over anytime. His net worth is $772 million!
ItsThatGuy
Could barely raise my interest enough to comment on this post
Santanq
No opinion either way it will not make any difference to me.
Anonymous
Monarchy is a totally outdated concept. Tax payers should not have to fund the lavish lifestyles of ordinary people pretending to be Gods.
musicmum
They are not ordinary people, they are over privelaged criminals, the King has a networth of $772 million so can afford to pay his own way. Yes we need to break ties with the monarcy.
the rack
Even though I have no British heritage, I think it's important that we feel remembered and well regarded by these royal visits. It does bring a level of excitement and feeling of value to some who enjoy the experience.
s
Looking forward to it.
Went before and actually saw Prince Charles years ago.
Also saw Prince Harry and his wife when she was pregnant with her first child.
Wish I had seen Diana and the Queen though.
Not outdated. They have presences on social media, magazines, newspapers etc.
What I like about King Charles is his ongoing commitment to climate change over the decades.
Also his charity work especially in a town in England and his dedication to saving the town by employing people.
Prince Harry's invictus games has saved peoples lives and given people who served in the military and were injured a purpose in life and restored their faith and humanity in them.
I think the world is a better place with them.
musicmum
I feel so sorry for you , you really are blinded by what you read. They are dangerous, over privelaged criminals. The king has a networth of $772 million and can afford to pay his own way. What does he do for Australians? Nothing!
Riorita 1
Not interested at all
cjc1959au
If it had been Liz, I would be all for it. She was a proper Queen. Now, they're just like a TV reality program, always fighting with one another & causing each other problems. They are now a complete waste of time!
Didds
I agree with you!
Queen Elizabeth was respected more than Charles and Camilla will ever be!
dreamer27
Why spend on them to come here. Money can be better spent on health care system and we also have many homeless etc.
Didds
I couldn’t agree more about our public hospitals and the homeless.
So much more a priority surely?!
Ziah
How on earth is spending $1.5MILLION on them visiting going to boost our economy or tourism? No-one's got the money to travel to see them, no-one's got the money to spend on businesses along their route - it is an utter farce, a relic of colonial times and if they want to come here, they should pay their own way (they have a buttload more money than we do!) #notmyking
musicmum
Exactly! And the King could afford to pay his own way, his networth is $772 million! Wouldn't it be great if no one turned up to see him?
Zayna31984807
This is the first time I’ve heard that they are coming😂
donny
I understand Clare re the money would be more wisely spent on providing Quote: "Better schools, higher pay, safer communities, less potholes".
We all know that is never gonna happen. But having said that, I disagree totally with the concept that we have to pay for their trip. If the last trip cost us $1.5 million, you can be sure this one would cost us double or triple that. The Politicians and the media are the ones who will fawn over them, the Womens Weekly will make the usual killing from it. So let THEM pay for the whole thing. Ha Ha!! And then you know that is not gonna happen either.
KennethS
The cost of the Royal Tour is chickenfeed in what Politicians spend Pork Barreling trying to keep themselves in the sinecure of political public office.
sunny64
They won't visit my region so why should my taxes pay for their trip? They should fund their own trip, they can certainly afford it! We have so many homeless people and a failing health system. Spend the dollars on our own people and stop wasting it on foreigners.
musicmum
Yes so true.
Clare31659956
Its a costly and outdated tradition and a complete waste of our tax paying dollars - the last Royal visit cost us 1.5 million dollars. No thank you. Better schools, higher pay, safer communities, less potholes... plenty to spend it on and I'm sure the royalty can afford to pay for their own holidays.
S3263
This post is where I learned that they were visiting in October, thanks for that! I don't know about inspiring pride but my hope is that communities they visit will be supported by tourism and extra spending. We can all use a bit of motivation and 'something to look forward to' nowadays.
Bigbear
With the ever rising cost of living I'm concerned that Australian taxpayers may have to pay for this visit which is likely to cost tens of thousands of dollars.
I question that the public should have to pay and be slugged with the costs right at the moment we are experiencing incredible cost of living challenges.
musicmum
I agree, and the King's networth is $772 million! $1.5 million is pocket money to them.
thao9
waste of time and money stay home