Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently met with King Charles III at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, making it clear that he will not hold a referendum on whether Australia should become a republic during his term. Albanese described the meeting as a “very pleasant lunch” and noted that discussions did not touch on severing ties with the UK or establishing a republic.
As the head of 15 Commonwealth realms, including Australia, King Charles’s role is largely ceremonial. Albanese emphasized that, while he personally supports a republican model, he respects the current system and previous decisions, and he reaffirmed his oath of allegiance to the King. He pointed out that the earlier “Voice to Parliament” referendum proposed under his government did not pass, and the government is now focusing on addressing practical concerns, such as the rising cost of living.
Albanese also highlighted that King Charles and Queen Camilla received a warm welcome during their visit to Australia last year, demonstrating that the monarchy continues to enjoy significant respect in the country. He stressed that the King understands his support for Australians serving as their own head of state while simultaneously respecting the existing constitutional system and government operations.