Royal Visit: King Charles III Marks 17th Australian Tour Amid Health Challenges

King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited the Australian War Memorial in Canberra during their tour. The trip, scaled down due to King Charles' health, marks his 17th visit to Australia and the first since becoming king. They attended a reception at Parliament House, omitting some Australian state leaders.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla have embarked on their 17th visit to Australia, the first since Charles ascended to the throne in 2022. On Monday, the royal couple laid wreaths at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, marking the solemnity of their tour.

Amid health concerns, with King Charles being treated for cancer, the visit involves a scaled-down itinerary. During the trip, they attended a church service in Sydney before flying to Canberra, where Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hosted a reception at Parliament House.

Notably absent, however, were government leaders from Australia's six states, reflecting a preference for an Australian head of state over the British monarchy. Charles is scheduled to travel to Samoa on Wednesday for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)