King Charles will not oppose Australian republic bid

The ARM, which advocates for Australia to become a republic with an Australian head of state, noted that the country last held a referendum on the issue in 1999, with 54.9% voting to retain the monarchy. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed his belief that “Australia should have an Australian as our head of state,” though he has indicated that another referendum is not a current priority.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson reinforced the King’s position, 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.”

Meanwhile, Graham Smith, head of the British republican group Republic, is in Australia to protest against the monarchy during the King’s visit. He described the public reaction as one of “indifference and disinterest,” saying, “Most people are barely aware of the visit and couldn’t care less.”

Smith added that he hopes the King’s visit will spark further debate in both the UK and Australia about the relevance of the monarchy, arguing that the institution “doesn’t deserve respect or deference.” This trip will mark Charles’ most significant overseas tour since his cancer diagnosis, as well as his first visit to Australia as its head of state.

(with inputs from The Guardian)