AceShowbiz - Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's close associate has responded strongly to the backlash surrounding the couple’s upcoming tour of Australia. This visit, scheduled to include stops in Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney, has drawn considerable public attention and mixed reactions.

Liam Maguire, a longtime friend of Harry and their newly appointed public relations chief, emphasized that the trip will not be financed by Australian taxpayers. This statement responds directly to a petition signed by over 43,000 people opposing the use of public funds for the visit.

Critics have labeled the tour as a mere "publicity stunt," especially in light of the Sussexes’ recent loss of their Netflix deal. However, Mr. Maguire clarified, "The programme is rooted in long-standing areas of work for the Duke and Duchess, with a clear focus on amplifying organisations delivering measurable impact." He added that the couple’s visit aims to “listen, learn and support communities rather than promotion.”

This statement was provided in a Q&A section of a document released to the press, which offers new details about the itinerary commencing next Tuesday. The four-day trip will see the couple engage with a variety of community groups and organizations.

According to the document titled "Operational Planning Notes," the Sussexes will jointly participate in events centered on veterans and mental health. This includes visits to a children’s hospital and an Invictus Australia event on Sydney Harbour. Meghan will also make a solo appearance at a women’s homelessness shelter, while Harry plans to attend an AFL club event in Melbourne and a rugby union match in Sydney. Additionally, Harry is expected to visit Canberra briefly without Meghan.

Since leaving the UK for the United States in 2020 and stepping back from official royal duties, the couple’s trip shares several similarities with traditional royal tours. However, royal experts have cautioned that the Sussexes may face opposition and will require "thick skins" due to potential hostility in some areas.

The document also notes that the couple’s presence in Australia is the result of invitations from multiple groups, ensuring a packed schedule. Unlike customary royal tours, this visit will not feature "walkabouts" — public greetings with citizens — due to the high security costs and the need to maintain public order.

Mr. Maguire confirmed that Harry and Meghan will be traveling without their two children, Archie, six, and Lilibet, four. This contrasts with previous royal tours, such as the 2014 visit by Prince William and Kate Middleton, during which then one-year-old Prince George was photographed meeting a bilby at a Sydney zoo, a moment cherished by royal enthusiasts worldwide.

As the Sussexes prepare for their Australian engagements, the focus remains on their advocacy work in mental health, veterans’ affairs, and community support, with the couple aiming to make a meaningful impact during their visit rather than seeking publicity.

This article is based on reporting originally published by Mirror.