King Charles has reportedly expressed that he will not oppose Australia's decision if the country chooses to replace him as head of state. Ahead of his upcoming visit to Australia, the king has taken an "anti-confrontational approach" regarding the country’s republican movement, according to reports.
The Australian Republican Movement (ARM) recently requested a meeting with the monarch. In response, Nathan Ross, the king’s assistant private secretary, conveyed King Charles’ "deep love and affection" for Australia. He emphasized that as a constitutional monarch, King Charles acts on the advice of his ministers, and the decision for Australia to become a republic lies with the Australian people.
The ARM, which advocates for an Australian republic with an Australian as head of state, noted that King Charles respected the country's choice. Australia previously held a referendum in 1999 on the issue of becoming a republic, with 54.9% voting to remain a constitutional monarchy.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has previously expressed support for an Australian head of state but recently stated that holding another referendum is not currently a priority for his government.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson confirmed the king’s stance, stating: "Like his mother before him, it has always been the case that his majesty the king feels that it is a matter for the Australian people."
Graham Smith, leader of the British anti-monarchy group Republic, is in Australia to protest the monarchy during the king's visit. He remarked that the general reaction in Australia has been one of “indifference and disinterest,” adding that the visit comes at great expense to both Australian and British taxpayers. Smith hopes the visit will stir debate in both countries and highlight what he views as the monarchy's lack of relevance.
The upcoming trip marks King Charles’ most significant overseas visit since his cancer diagnosis and his first visit to Australia as its head of state.
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