Meghan Markle draws criticism over Australia visit as reports suggest her business ambitions may clash with past commitments to Queen Elizabeth

The spotlight is once again firmly fixed on Meghan Markle, as fresh criticism surrounds her upcoming visit to Australia with Prince Harry. What is being billed as a philanthropic trip has quickly become the centre of a wider debate about blurred boundaries between public service and personal enterprise.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to travel to Sydney and Melbourne later this month, marking their first visit to Australia in over seven years. While the itinerary includes charity-linked engagements, the presence of high-priced, ticketed events has sparked renewed scrutiny. Critics argue that such elements risk undermining the spirit of their post-royal commitments.

Among the most vocal is royal author Tom Bower, who has questioned the intent behind the trip. He suggests the visit leans more towards brand-building than service, raising concerns that the couple may be monetising their royal association. These remarks tie back to an alleged understanding with Queen Elizabeth II that the couple would not commercially exploit their titles after stepping back from official duties in 2020.





At the heart of the controversy lies the structure of the trip itself. Meghan is set to headline an exclusive wellness retreat in Sydney, reportedly featuring premium packages that include curated experiences and personal interactions. Meanwhile, Prince Harry will participate in a professional summit in Melbourne focused on mental health and workplace wellbeing, with proceeds supporting charitable initiatives.

This dual approach has created a perception problem. On one hand, there are clear philanthropic intentions. On the other, the exclusivity and pricing of certain events introduce a commercial dimension that critics find difficult to ignore. For some observers, this combination fuels the narrative that the Sussex brand is being carefully positioned within a lucrative global market.



Compounding the discussion are reports that Meghan is expanding her lifestyle brand, As Ever, into international territories. Trademark filings in Australia across categories such as beauty, food, and wellness products suggest a broader strategy may be unfolding alongside the visit. While supporters view this as a natural business evolution, detractors see it as further evidence of commercial intent.



The timing of these developments has intensified the conversation. For critics, the overlap between brand expansion and a high-profile international visit raises questions about motive and messaging. It is not necessarily the activities themselves that are under fire, but the optics they create.

Supporters of the Duchess argue that modern public figures often navigate both philanthropy and enterprise, and that the lines between the two are no longer as rigid as they once were. However, the legacy of royal expectations continues to shape public perception, particularly when past assurances are brought into the discussion.



As Meghan and Harry prepare to step onto Australian soil once more, the trip is likely to attract both admiration and criticism in equal measure. Whether it ultimately strengthens their global influence or deepens the divide in public opinion remains to be seen.