UK King Charles III’s Australian Visit Marks End of Royal Era, Sparks Republic Debate

King Charles III concluded his Australian tour on Tuesday, the first visit by a reigning British monarch in 13 years, which has sparked a renewed debate on Australia’s future as a constitutional monarchy, The Associated Press reports.

Charles and Queen Camilla participated in various public engagements, including Indigenous community events, a barbecue, and a fleet review. However, their visit was met with some protests from anti-monarchists.

Wayne Wharton, an Indigenous activist, was arrested for protesting outside the Sydney Opera House. He condemned the royal visit as a symbol of oppression and demanded that Australia abolish the monarchy in favor of an Australian citizen as head of state.

Senator Lidia Thorpe, an Indigenous independent, also challenged Charles’s authority during a reception, stating that he was not her king and Australia was not his land.

Esther Anatolitis, co-chair of the Australian Republic Movement, believes the royal visit has highlighted the growing desire for an Australian republic. While noting that large crowds turned out to greet the royals, she pointed out that numbers were significantly lower compared to Queen Elizabeth II’s first visit in 1954.

Legal experts suggest that changing Australia’s constitution to become a republic would be challenging, as it requires the support of a majority of voters in a majority of states. Constitutional lawyer Anne Twomey believes it is an unlikely prospect during Charles’s lifetime.

Despite criticism, Thorpe defended her confrontational approach towards the monarchy, denying that it was violent.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed support for an Australian republic but has ruled out a referendum during his first term.