the modern face of British monarchy

Meanwhile Meghan and Harry existed in a parallel universe with only occasional crossovers to real life. They were not so much above politics as beside politics. Some wondered about their possible impact on the byelection result through taking over media coverage. But their visit was largely a distraction not from politics but from the troubles of real life, welcomed by many groups and communities just because of their willingness to be present with them.

The politicians were there in droves alright on a continuing basis from the Prime Minister to the NSW Premier with many others of all levels in between but they were largely overlooked.

Some of the events were manufactured and curated to within an inch of their lives, but the finest moments were unrehearsed. No one should ever criticise communities which welcome celebrity visitors and delight in the wider attention it brings to them. The Duke and Duchess excelled by listening intently to those who came to see them.

Professional monarchists were generally careful about playing up the impact of the tour on Australia, while undoubtedly enjoying any sign of discomfort by republicans. But republicans themselves were largely relaxed. There were many more positive contributions by republicans, such as Australian Republican Movement chair Peter Fitzsimons, than by monarchists who generally kept their heads down. Meanwhile the British media buzzed around seeking comments on the implications of the tour for the future of the British monarchy in Australia.

Just occasionally the monarchists tripped up, especially in the suggestion that perhaps Harry might make a good Governor-General. That was a mistake. Australians are well over that type of suggestion as Malcolm Fraser found to his embarrassment in the 1970s when he floated the idea of Harry’s father, Prince Charles, as a prospective Governor-General. It was laughed out of court.

Some media commentary trivialised the tour with even serious media outlets descending to headlines about Meghan’s fashion choices. There was also a gushing element to much interaction with and commentary on the tourists from the flavour of some ABC commentary to the comments by minor politicians, like the NSW Minister, Anthony Roberts, who reported breathlessly that the visitors ‘adored’ Australia and Australians.

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Three larger lessons about Meghan and Harry with broader implications for Australian public life stood out.

The first is about the contribution that younger people like these 30-somethings can make. Many institutions, including politics, must learn this. Younger Australians are edging towards the centre of Australian life in business, politics and non-government organisations, but we still have a long way to go. We’ve always recognised that in sport and war, though not among coaches and generals so much, but both these arenas have been seen as exceptions to real life.

The lesson of Meghan and Harry is that the younger generation have transformed the British Royals because younger people have a relaxed and informal style which gives them an ability to connect with all ages. Younger Australians need increased respect and earlier elevation to leadership and decision-making roles within other institutions.

The second lesson is about the undoubted attractiveness of couples in public life. Meghan is an enormous asset to Harry and her role meets no objection. Yet in politics there is often uncomfortable talk about getting ‘two for one’ with an elected public official. We usually discourage it and keep the partner in their place.

Whatever their own achievements the partners of those in public office are kept relatively anonymous. Who can name the wife of the Governor-General, Sir Peter Cosgrove, or of the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison? Very few.

The third lesson is the ethical double standards we apply to our political leaders when compared to the Royal Family. We give our political leaders an incredibly hard time and criticise them for any suggestion of spending public money on themselves. Royal tourists travel with an extended entourage, including many personal assistants and a hairdresser, while politicians are criticised for employing a nanny for their children or taking their family members with them on an official tour. We must give greater support to the families of our leaders.

John Warhurst is an Emeritus Professor of political science at the Australian National University and a former chair of the Australian Republican Movement.