The Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle (44) told young Australians in Melbourne that she had been “bullied and attacked” online for a decade, describing herself as “the most trolled person in the entire world”.  The event formed part of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s four-day visit to Australia as non-working royals. 

“Every day for ten years, I’ve been bullied and attacked,” Markle told the group of young people, adding, “but I’m still here.”

She urged attendees to recognise that social media is “a billion dollar industry that is completely anchored and predicated on cruelty to get clicks”, and encouraged resilience in the face of online negativity. 

Prince Harry reflects on loss and public life

At a separate event, Prince Harry (41) delivered a keynote address at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit in Melbourne, where tickets cost up to AUD$2 400 (about R28 000) per person. He spoke candidly about the impact of losing his mother, Princess Diana, at age twelve, saying he felt “lost, betrayed, or completely powerless” and considered leaving his royal role. 

“It killed my mum and I was very much against it, and I stuck my head in the sand for years and years,” Harry said. He explained that reflecting on how his mother would want him to use his platform changed his perspective and motivated him to focus on positive change.

Tour highlights: MasterChef, wellness event, and Canberra visit

During the tour, Markle filmed an episode as a guest judge for MasterChef Australia in Melbourne on 15 April. The episode is scheduled to air on 19 April as part of the show’s eighteenth season. 

She is also the headline guest at a luxury wellness “girls’ weekend” at a five-star hotel at Coogee Beach, Sydney. The event includes yoga, sound healing, dinners, and a gala, with ticket prices starting at AUD$2 699 (about R31 400) per person. VIP packages, which cost more, offer a group table photo with Markle and a goodie bag. 

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The couple is also due to visit Canberra, according to ABC Australia.

Public response and criticism over security costs

The Sussexes have been warmly received at public events, but their visit has drawn criticism over the use of public funds for security. Jess Wilson, Victoria’s opposition leader, said, “The idea that Victorian taxpayers are footing the bill for the private security of visiting celebrities should appal every single Victorian”.

Victoria Police confirmed awareness of the visit but did not disclose operational details or funding arrangements.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped back from royal duties in 2020 and relocated to North America. They now live in California with their two young children. Harry is reportedly seeking to repair relations with his father, King Charles III, who remains Australia’s head of state.

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