Charles III plans a visit to Australia amid calls for greater independence
British media have reported that King Charles III aims to visit Australia in the spring, corresponding to the autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. This visit could symbolize the monarch's message that a diagnosis of a serious illness, such as prostate cancer, isn't an end to one's duties or life.
As the official ruler of Australia, New Zealand, and 12 other Commonwealth nations beyond the UK, the monarch's potential visit comes at a time of growing sentiment for greater independence from the UK among these countries.
Following the passing of Elizabeth II, Charles III will not appear on the Australian $5 note. Instead, it will feature an image celebrating the Aboriginal population:
"This represents a victory for the indigenous movement advocating for the decolonization of the country. They have never pledged allegiance to any monarch," commented Australian senator Lidia Thorpe.
Furthermore, before the new king's coronation, Australian officials expressed that the title 'king' seemed too gender-specific and advocated a more gender-neutral term. Last year, "The Australian News" suggested substituting "His Royal Highness" and "king" with "sovereign", to signify "ruler or monarch".
If it goes ahead, this visit by Charles III would be the first by a sitting UK monarch since Elizabeth II's journey in 2011.
It’s noteworthy that Charles III has previously visited the Antipodes nearly fifteen times, with his most recent trip in 2018. Confirmation of his upcoming trip is expected by autumn, as per Buckingham Palace.
