Monarchists in Australia have accused several state premiers of “insulting” King Charles as they will not be attending a reception welcoming him to the country later this week. The event, set to take place in Canberra, has sparked controversy as the premiers of six states—New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania—have all announced they are unable to attend.
Monarchists Express Outrage Over Absence
The absence of these key political figures has led to criticism from pro-monarchy groups, with Bev McArthur, a prominent member of the Australian Monarchist League, expressing her discontent. “I find it insulting,” McArthur said, urging the premiers to put aside their republican views and attend the event. She emphasized the significance of the visit, saying, “They should just take off their republican hats, make the short trip to Canberra, say ‘hi and thank you for coming to Australia’.”
McArthur, also a Liberal MP, spoke out strongly against what she called “gesture-led politics” and described the failure of the premiers to attend as “indefensible.” She believes that welcoming King Charles and Queen Camilla is a duty that should be fulfilled by the highest elected officials in the states, and their absence is a clear sign of disrespect.
State Representation at the Event
Although the premiers will not be present, the six states will still be represented at the reception by their governors, who act as the King’s representatives in Australia. Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the controversy, but the reception is expected to be attended by Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, who will formally welcome the King to the country.
The decision of the state premiers not to attend has reignited debates about Australia’s future as a constitutional monarchy, with some viewing their absence as a symbolic move toward republicanism. The reception and the so-called “snub” have been highlighted in media outlets such as the Daily Mirror, further fueling discussions about whether Australia should remain tied to the British monarchy.
Republican Sentiment vs. Monarchy Support
The absence of the state premiers has been interpreted by some as a subtle endorsement of Australia becoming a republic. Jacinta Allan, the Premier of Victoria, explained her decision not to attend, citing prior government business commitments. In a recent press conference, she said she was “very pleased that King Charles is visiting Australia,” but noted that supporting Australia’s shift to a republic was “something I would support,” though it is not her current priority.
While some premiers have voiced support for the idea of a republic, their absence at the reception is not necessarily tied to this movement. Many have indicated scheduling conflicts as the primary reason for their non-attendance. Victoria’s deputy premier will also not be attending, with the state instead being represented by Governor Margaret Gardner.
Monarchy vs. Republic Debate Continues
Pro-monarchy advocates like Bev McArthur argue that the constitutional monarchy offers a stable system of government and have expressed concern that an elected president, as envisioned by the Australian Republic Movement, would only add another layer of bureaucracy. McArthur pointed to recent polls showing that a majority of Australians still favor retaining the monarchy, suggesting that the republican movement does not yet have overwhelming support.
On the other side of the debate, the Australian Republic Movement is seizing the moment to renew calls for a republic. Spokesperson Isaac Jeffrey described King Charles’ visit as the monarchy’s “farewell tour,” emphasizing that it is time for Australia to elect a local head of state. “It’s time for Australia to elect someone who can work for Australia full-time,” Jeffrey said, reinforcing the movement’s push for independence from the British Crown.
The King’s Perspective
King Charles, who has long stated that Australia’s future as a monarchy or republic is a matter for the Australian people, reiterated this position in a recent letter exchange with the Australian Republic Movement. His visit to Australia, the largest since his cancer diagnosis earlier this year, will include not only the reception in Canberra but also a formal trip to Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
As the King and Queen prepare for their Australian visit, the row over the absent premiers continues to cast a shadow over what was intended to be a moment of celebration and diplomacy. For monarchists, the decision by the state leaders is seen as an insult to the King. For republicans, it is another step toward a future where Australia is fully independent from the British monarchy.
Stay connected to know more on arcnews.online for global news like Australian Govt Premiers Accused Of Insulting King Charles. For videos updates visit our YouTube. Do subscribe to Arcnews to get latest updates directly in your mail box.
Have A Great Day.
