King Charles sent a heartfelt message to the Australian people following Harry and Meghan’s latest visit.
The monarch described as a defining moment in Australia’s democratic journey as the country marks the 125th anniversary of the opening of its first Federal Parliament.
In a message issued to mark the commemorations at the historic Exhibition Buildings, the King spoke of the creation of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901 and praised the country’s evolution as a “confident, diverse and forward-looking nation.”
Charles noted that Australia’s first Parliament opened in the presence of his great-grandparents.
He described the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on how the ambitions of a young federation helped lay the foundations for the strong democratic system that continues to shape the country today.
The king praised Parliament for guiding the nation through challenges and opportunities over the decades.
He also spoke warmly of the symbolic importance of commemorating this anniversary in the very building where the national Parliament first met over a century ago.
This reflected the enduring spirit of democracy and public accountability.
Sending best wishes alongside Queen Camilla, the monarch encouraged Australians to look to the future with “unity, determination and optimism”, while taking pride in the democratic traditions built over generations.
The celebrations honor not only the opening of Down Under’s first Parliament in 1901, but also the growth of one of the world’s oldest democracies – described by the King as a “remarkable success story”.
