King Charles has reaffirmed that the decision regarding whether Australia remains a constitutional monarchy or transitions to a republic lies solely in the hands of the Australian people. This statement comes in the lead-up to the King’s visit to Australia next week, as part of a larger tour that includes key events in Sydney and Canberra. The Australian Republic Movement recently engaged in a written exchange with Buckingham Palace, where officials responded on behalf of the monarch.
The correspondence, first disclosed by the Daily Mail, reiterated that any future constitutional changes in Australia are entirely a matter for the public to determine. “Whether Australia becomes a republic is a matter for the Australian public to decide,” stated the letter from the Palace. The letter, while not signaling any new policy direction, restated the long-standing position of the monarchy, clarifying that King Charles, as a constitutional monarch, remains guided by the advice of his ministers.
This diplomatic exchange arose after the Australian Republic Movement requested a meeting with King Charles during his visit to discuss the possibility of Australia becoming a republic. Although no meeting has been confirmed, the letter expressed the King’s appreciation for the engagement. “The King appreciated that you took the time to write and asked me to reply on his behalf,” the letter read, adding, “Your views on this matter have been noted very carefully.” Furthermore, the correspondence emphasized the monarch’s “deep love and affection” for Australia and expressed gratitude for the thoughtfulness of the movement’s communication.
The question of Australia’s relationship with the British monarchy has long been a contentious issue. A referendum held in 1999 saw Australians voting to remain a constitutional monarchy, but the debate has persisted. Advocates for an Australian republic argue that the country’s head of state should be an individual chosen by the Australian people, rather than a monarch residing overseas. Despite this, the Australian government has stated that plans for another referendum are currently “not a priority.”
Isaac Jeffrey, spokesperson for the Australian Republic Movement, underscored this position upon the announcement of the King’s visit. While respecting the contributions of the royal family, Jeffrey reiterated the movement’s stance that the nation should elect its own head of state. “While we respect the role the royals have played in the nation to date, it’s time for Australia to elect a local to serve as our head of state. Someone who can work for Australia full time,” he stated. The campaign has distinguished its respect for King Charles personally, while simultaneously advocating for the removal of the monarchy as Australia’s head of state. “We’re keen to tell him we’ll stay in the Commonwealth, and a republic is about us, not about him or his family,” Jeffrey added.
The King’s upcoming visit to Australia, scheduled from 18 to 26 October, is expected to draw attention to the ongoing debate about the nation’s future constitutional structure. The royal visit will feature a review of Australia’s naval fleet in Sydney Harbour, participation in a community barbecue, support for environmental initiatives, and meetings with award-winning cancer specialists. The trip follows the King’s recent cancer diagnosis, with reports indicating that his treatment will be paused for the duration of the visit. Following his stay in Australia, King Charles will travel to Samoa to attend a Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.
In addition to this major trip, it has been confirmed that the King will host the Amir of Qatar in December during a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom. The events in Australia and the state visit highlight King Charles’ continued commitment to fulfilling his royal duties despite his health challenges, underscoring the significance of the monarchy’s role in the Commonwealth and the broader international community.
As King Charles and Queen Camilla prepare to visit Australia, the future of the monarchy in the country is once again set to be a prominent topic of discussion. Though the King has remained neutral on the issue, the growing republican sentiment in Australia continues to shape political discourse.
