In brief
With merch branding King Charles' visit as "farewell tour," the ARM ignites discourse on Australia's future with the Crown amid rising republican sentiment.
Ahead of King Charles' anticipated visit to Australia, the Australian Republican Movement (ARM) has cheekily labeled his itinerary as the "farewell tour" of the British monarchy. With merchandise featuring the British royals as retro rock stars, the campaign intends to stir public discussion about ending the monarchy's role in Australia. The royal visit from 18 to 26 October is King Charles' most extensive trip abroad since his cancer diagnosis and coincides with diminishing momentum for a national referendum after the failed 2021 Voice to Parliament vote. In 1999, Australia rejected becoming a republic, but support for the move has since climbed. ARM's paraphernalia—satirical posters, t-shirts, and beer coasters—encourages Australians to bid adieu to "royal reign." ARM Co-Chair Esther Anatolitis stated, "We deserve a full-time head of state solely committed to us." Despite ARM's claims of strong republican sentiment, independent polls show divide, with 35% wishing to maintain the constitutional monarchy. While the Prime Minister supports republicanism, plans for a referendum have paused. King Charles affirmed his stance, acknowledging any constitutional change lies with Australians. Given the difficulty of succeeding in constitutional referendums, ARM faces challenges similar to the unsuccessful Indigenous Voice referendum.
