Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended a warm welcome to King Charles III in his first visit to Australia as monarch, acknowledging the long-standing bond between the king and the Australian people.
In a heartfelt speech delivered at the Great Hall of the Australian federal Parliament, Albanese reflected on the deep connection the king had with Australia since his first visit in 1966.
“For decades, you have been warmly welcomed to our country by generations of Australians as the Prince of Wales,” Albanese began, before expressing the nation’s pleasure at welcoming the king and Queen Camilla in their new roles.
He recalled how Charles has “been taken into Australian hearts.”
“You have stood with us proudly in our good times. You have stood with us just as emphatically in our difficult times.”
The prime minister also acknowledged Queen Camilla’s personal involvement with Australian charities over the years, praising her quiet yet meaningful contributions.
In his speech, Albanese touched on the king’s unique Australian experiences, from his time at Timbertop school in Victoria to being interviewed by Molly Meldrum on the iconic TV show Countdown.
He described both moments as formative in shaping the king’s appreciation for Australia.
“As King, you have an extraordinary duty to the traditions so carefully upheld, protected and nurtured by generations of your forebears.”
Albanese honoured the late Queen Elizabeth II, describing her as a “shining thread through the story of modern Australia” and noting how deeply the nation mourned her passing.
Looking ahead, the prime minister recognised King Charles’ commitment to addressing climate change and his long-standing interest in sustainability and urban environment issues.
He praised the king’s efforts to promote reconciliation with Australia’s Indigenous people, and also highlighted the evolving relationship between Australia and the crown, acknowledging the nation’s debates on its constitutional future.
“As a modern, outward-looking economy, we have established our place in the world and made our home in the region,” Albanese said.
In closing, Albanese expressed his confidence in King Charles’ ability to carry forward the duties of the crown.
British Heritage Has Given Australia So Much: Dutton
In a warm address, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton conveyed the significance of the occasion, stating, “You visit is truly special for Australians, not only because it’s your first visit as our king, but also because it’s a testimony to your recovery.”King has been recovering from cancer treatment.
Dutton said the king’s presence reminded Australians of their love for Britain.
“Austen and Shakespeare. Churchill and Darwin. Queen and Doctor Who. Cricket and rugby. And, of course, tea and pints,” he said.
But far more importantly, Dutton pointed to the features that “have helped to forge a new nation.”
“Representative democracy. The Constitution. The separation of powers. The rule of law. The English language. Freedom of speech, of association, of the press. And so much more besides,” he said.
“We should never take our British inheritance for granted. Australia has benefitted from the stability of a democracy with the Monarchy as our bedrock.”
“Through times of peace and war, constitutional and parliamentary crises, good times and bad, Australians have known stability and have taken confidence knowing that there are better days ahead because our institutions are protected and underpinned by the independence and stoicism of the reigning monarch.
Dutton also highlighted the deep affection Australians have for King Charles, noting, Australia would always be proud “to have played a part in forging a prince.”
The opposition leader also paid tribute to the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, acknowledging her unwavering dedication to her duties.
Aboriginal Elder Opens Celebrations
The ceremony commenced with Aunty Violet Sheridan, senior Ngunnawal elder, delivering the first welcome speech for the King and Queen.“As a proud woman carrying the spirit of my ancestors, I am dedicated to teaching future generations about Ngunnawal culture, the oldest in the world,” she remarked.
Acknowledging both Indigenous and non-Indigenous attendees, she highlighted the significance of friendship and reconciliation, extending a warm welcome to the royal couple and distinguished guests.
