The King is “hopeful” to travel to an overseas commonwealth country this year despite his cancer diagnosis.
Charles was expected to visit Australia with the Queen in October but since the King’s recent health announcement, these plans have been questioned.
However, a source has revealed that the King still hopes to visit Australia as part of a long-haul international trip.
The royal voyage has been scheduled around the Commonwealth heads of government meeting in Samoa which begins on 21 October, 2024.
The King and Camilla planned to travel to Australia in October 2024
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A source said: “We continue planning, but we’re not at any stage to confirm timing or dates because it’s the first week of the King’s treatment.”
Charles has been undertaking treatment for a form of cancer which was announced by Buckingham Palace last week.
The source told The Telegraph: “It certainly remains the case that he’s hopeful it will go ahead.”
At the start of the year, the Australian prime minister, Anthony Albanese, revealed that the King could be travelling Down Under this year.
Charles and Camilla visiting Perth, Australia in 2015
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A government source told The Australian newspaper: “The Prime Minister enjoys a warm relationship with the King and looks forward to welcoming His Majesty to Australia this year.”
Australian royal fans were excited by the rumours and eager to see the King in their country for the first time since his accession.
The last time a ruling monarch visited Australia was in October 2011 when the late Queen Elizabeth went to the country.
The palace source continued: “Albanese confirmed there was a state visit in the pipeline,” and added that “planning for future state visits continues, making allowance for changed circumstances.”
Charles speaks with Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese
PA
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King Charles speaks with Steve Irwin's children in Australia
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After the late Queen Elizabeth II’s death, there has been debate in Australia as to whether the country should become a republic and cut ties with the British monarchy.
But following Albanese’s statement about the King’s visit it seems like the Australian prime minister has put a hold on his plans for a republic.
For the time being, the King is not expected to undertake any public-facing duties, but he will undertake paperwork from home.
A statement from Buckingham Palace said: “His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.”
