The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who in 2020 announced their departure from the British royal family to achieve financial independence, claim that the trip is self-funded. The visit includes stops in Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney, albeit without the large public events that characterized their tour as newlyweds.
The additional security costs have sparked criticism, as well as their participation in paid events, which some media have described as a strategy to strengthen their personal brand. From their office, the dukes have rejected these accusations and have defended that the trip focuses on supporting social and charitable causes, as well as listening to local communities.
Their activities include visits to children's hospitals, women's shelters, and meetings with veterans. Additionally, they will participate in an Invictus Games event in Sydney, an initiative founded by Harry in 2014 for wounded military personnel, thus reinforcing their commitment to this charitable project.