MEMBER for Mallee Anne Webster says the majority of Australians “embrace” the monarchy while taking a swipe at Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan for not meeting King Charles in Canberra on Monday.
Dr Webster said she met with His Majesty and other federal parliamentarians, who spoke briefly with him at a civic reception in Canberra during a four-day visit to Australia.
She said the King and Queen’s dedication to Australia and civic duty “stands in stark contrast“ to Ms Allan rebuffing the invitation to be in Canberra.
“Most of the Premiers have snubbed our reigning head of state, which I consider to be callous given they are Ministers of the Crown,” she said.
“It is disappointing that when Their Majesties have flown from the other side of the world to make their first visit to our wonderful country as King and Queen, Premiers and parliamentarians alike were too busy politicking.
“Premier Allan’s no-show is particularly insulting given Victorian Labor embarrassed the Commonwealth – pledging to have the world’s first regional Commonwealth Games, then pulling the pin leaving Scotland to save our bacon.”
Ms Allan said she turned down the invitation due to a cabinet meeting.
Governor of Victoria Margaret Gardner and parliamentary secretary Nick Staikos represented Ms Allan.
Dr Webster said the majority of Australians embraced Their Majesties and the monarchy.
“We see a healthy, youthful and strong Australian nation very comfortable with our lifelong association with the Royal Family and Constitutional arrangements,” she said.
“His Majesty today paid tribute to Australia’s bravery and resilience in the face of natural disasters as the essence of the Australian character, also remarking on our economic growth and diversity.”
This week’s visit was the King Charles’ first visit to a Commonwealth realm since he ascended to the throne.
The 75-year-old arrived in Australia on Friday before engagements in Sydney and Canberra.
It was his 17th visit to Australia.
