Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent visit to Australia has stirred controversy, particularly following the Daily Mail's breach of an embargo on their itinerary, which has led to heightened security concerns.
Why it matters: The Daily Mail's reporting has raised questions about media ethics and the safety of public figures, impacting how the Sussexes engage with the press in the future.
The Daily Mail published details of Harry and Meghan's movements five days before their arrival in Melbourne, violating a strict embargo.
This breach forced the couple to alter their itinerary and increased police security measures, a move criticized as a misuse of taxpayer funds.
The Sussexes' media office lodged a complaint, resulting in the removal of the Daily Mail's report, but the damage to their press strategy was already done.
Driving the news: Harry and Meghan kicked off their four-day Australian tour with a visit to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, where they met with young patients.
During the hospital visit, they spent almost 90 minutes interacting with families and children, exceeding their scheduled time by 30 minutes.
Harry expressed gratitude to Australians, stating it was "great" to be back, referencing the personal significance of the hospital, opened by his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 1963.
The couple's previous visit to Australia was in 2018, shortly after their wedding, marking this trip as a poignant return.
State of play: The couple faced mixed reactions during their engagements, with some praising their charitable efforts, whereas others accused them of exploiting vulnerable children for publicity.
Critics suggested that the children were used as props to bolster the couple's image, particularly as Meghan's fashion choices during the trip drew attention.
Podcaster Dan Wootton reported that Meghan allegedly said, "Let’s make this quick" before entering the hospital, raising eyebrows about their intentions.
Meghan wore a $1,250 navy dress by Australian designer Karen Gee, which sparked discussions about her business interests tied to her public appearances.
The big picture: The couple's visit has reignited debates over the appropriateness of royal figures engaging in commercial ventures alongside their public duties.
Concerns over taxpayer-funded security during their trip have led to petitions demanding that Harry and Meghan cover all related expenses themselves.
Victorian Opposition Leader Jess Wilson criticized the use of police resources for the couple's security, calling it "absolutely unacceptable."
The couple's attempts to maintain royal status, whilst pursuing commercial interests, have drawn ire from various sectors of the Australian public.
What they're saying: Reactions to the couple's visit have been polarized, with some praising their charitable efforts and others accusing them of hypocrisy.
"They are using these kids as PR but also hypocritically putting them online," an anonymous Australian criticized, pointing out the couple's contrasting stance on privacy.
Many online commentators echoed sentiments that the Sussexes were treating Australia like an "ATM" for their brand-building efforts.
Meghan's involvement in a fashion website that promotes her outfits worn during engagements has also drawn scrutiny, with accusations of self-serving motives.
By the numbers: The financial implications of the couple's visit have raised eyebrows.
Meghan was expected to earn around $175,000 for her appearance at a women's retreat during the trip, highlighting the commercial aspect of their engagements.
Petitions against taxpayer-funded security for the Sussexes have gathered tens of thousands of signatures, indicating public discontent.
Harry's speech at the InterEdge Summit, where he made headlines discussing his royal role, also had a hefty entry cost for attendees.
Between the lines: The Sussexes' approach to public engagements continues to be examined, especially concerning their past royal duties.
Harry's comments about not wanting to be a working royal due to the pressures that contributed to his mother's death have resonated with many, yet have also been met with skepticism.
The couple's insistence on privacy for their children contrasts sharply with their public appearances, leading to accusations of double standards.
As they navigate their new roles outside the royal family, the Sussexes face the challenge of balancing public expectations with their commercial ambitions.
What's next: The Sussexes plan to continue their tour, but with a revised approach to media engagement.
Following the Daily Mail incident, the Sussexes' team announced they would no longer share detailed itineraries with the press for the remainder of their trip.
Increased police security measures are likely to remain a point of contention as the couple continues their engagements in Australia.
Future public appearances will likely be closely monitored, as both supporters and critics remain vocal about their actions and intentions.