I've gained a new respect for Harry and Meghan after their Australian visit this week.

Subscribe now for unlimited access.

Login or signup to continue reading

From what I saw of Prince Harry at the Australian War Memorial, he was respectful and composed when needed and friendly and down-to-earth when he was with his people - veterans and their families.

I expected him to be a little bowed after more than six years of relentless criticism since he and Meghan decided in January 2020 to "step back as 'senior members' of the British royal family and work to become financially independent".

But he wasn't cowered at all. He was tall, straight-backed, looking confident in his own skin.

The four-day visit was privately funded. Yes, some police resources were used at some events. There was a smattering of officers at the war memorial. That also happens for much more minor royalty who visit the national capital and make the obligatory stop at the war memorial, and no one gives a fig then.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were in Australia to support causes close to their heart, such as veterans and also mental health, but also to make some money.

Why do people get so het up about that?

It's not like they were selling tea towels of themselves out the front of the war memorial. The commercial opportunities haven't been hidden and they've been kept separate from the more ceremonial and community events.

It's supply and demand, baby

Meghan and Harry are on the open market. It's supply and demand, baby. If people want to, they'll pay to see them. If people want to, they'll pay to have them associated with their brand. If they don't, they won't. Simples.

Meghan's big........

© Canberra Times