Reason Meghan Markle Refused Having Archie And Lillibet On Aussie Tour After Prince Harry ‘Pushed’ For It

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 9:00 PM

Prince Harry and Meghan made their return to Australia; however, their children were noticeably absent, with a source citing "security." The Reason Meghan Markle Refused Having Archie And Lillibet On Aussie Tour After Prince Harry ‘Pushed’ For It first appeared on The Blast

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made their return to Australia; however, their children were noticeably absent, with a source citing “security” and the duchess putting her foot down on the matter.

The trip marks the Sussexes’ first visit since 2018 and follows their decision to step back as working royals in 2020.

During the visit, Prince Harry will participate in mental health-focused engagements, while Meghan is set to host a luxury retreat for women.

Why Prince Harry And Meghan Markle Made An Australia Trip Without Their Kids

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

According to insiders, Harry had hoped to bring Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet along with him and Meghan to Australia, inspired by the way his mother, Princess Diana, once included her young sons on royal tours.

However, the duchess is said to have taken a different stance. Sources claim she “wasn’t comfortable” with the idea, particularly due to concerns around security and maintaining a stable environment for the children.

“Security is always her number one concern,” one insider shared with journalist Rob Shuter’s #ShuterScoop, noting that “She wants them in a controlled environment, and that’s California.”

They further noted that while Meghan hates being away from her kids, it was necessary for them to stay behind in Montecito while she and Harry focus on work.

“She hates being away from them,” the source said. “Even short separations are hard for her, but she’s a working mother and has to pay the bills.”

The Duke ‘Pushed’ For The Kids To Join Them On Tour, But Meghan Said ‘No’

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle courtside
MEGA

While the couple is said to discuss most decisions together, insiders suggest Meghan tends to take the lead when it comes to matters involving their children.

“Harry pushed for it,” the source continued. “But Meghan said no — and that was the end of it. They discuss everything, but on the kids, Meghan leads.”

They further noted that Harry’s idea of a family-focused trip was ultimately set aside in favor of what Meghan felt was best for them.

“He wanted a family moment,” the insider stated. “She wanted control — and she won.”

Prince Harry Champions Mental Health And Modern Fatherhood During Australia Visit

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex at Wheelchair Rugby in Vancouver Convention Centre
MEGA

So far, the Aussie trip has seen Harry focus on causes close to his heart. During engagements in Australia, the Duke combined his advocacy for mental health with his passion for sport.

In Melbourne, he spoke at the launch of a Movember report on the mental health of fathers, reflecting on his own experience as a parent.

He emphasized the evolving nature of parenting, suggesting that each generation should strive to improve on the last.

“Even if you had the best upbringing in the world, the best parenting in the world, there’s still room for improvement,” he said.

While referencing his relationship with King Charles III, Harry shared his belief that children should grow to become “upgrades,” shaped by a rapidly changing world. He also encouraged fathers to speak openly about their struggles, challenging the long-held idea that vulnerability is a sign of weakness. 

He explained: “For so many years, it has been seen as a weakness to stick your hands up. I find it’s the opposite. The more grief I get for talking about it, the more I want to stand up and talk about it. I know if I go quiet about it – what does that say to everyone else?”

Prince Harry And Meghan Blend Charity And Business On Low-Key Australia Return

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Attend Project Healthy Minds 3rd Annual Gala
MEGA

Alongside his advocacy work, Harry took part in a training session with the Western Bulldogs and visited the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

There, he honored fallen service members, participating in a traditional smoking ceremony and paying tribute to troops, including those who died in Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, Meghan focused on her own professional interests during the trip, including filming a guest appearance on “MasterChef” Australia and reportedly exploring opportunities to expand her lifestyle brand in the region.

She is also set to appear at a women-only retreat in Sydney, where attendees have paid premium prices for the experience, including opportunities to meet her.

The trip marks the couple’s first visit to Australia since 2018, when they toured the country shortly after their wedding and drew large public crowds.

This time, however, the tone is noticeably different. Now operating as private citizens after stepping back from royal duties in 2020, their visit combines charitable engagements with personal and commercial ventures.

Meghan Markle Turns Royal Style Into Shoppable Looks With New Partnership

Meghan Markle attends Variety Power of Women 2023
Lisa OConnor/AFF-USA.com / MEGA

Meanwhile, Meghan is reportedly turning her fashion choices into a new business opportunity, partnering with an AI-driven styling platform called OneOff.

The collaboration allows fans to shop pieces inspired by outfits she has worn, particularly during her recent visit to Australia.

During a stop at the Royal Children’s Hospital, Meghan wore a designer dress by Karen Gee, paired with accessories and heels from high-end labels. According to the Daily Mail, the items were quickly featured on OneOff, complete with direct shopping links for users interested in recreating the look.

At another engagement at the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum, she stepped out in a coordinated suede outfit from St Agni, styled with additional designer pieces, many of which were also highlighted on the platform.

However, not every item made the list. Notably absent were sentimental accessories like jewelry linked to Princess Diana, which Meghan has often been seen wearing

The Reason Meghan Markle Refused Having Archie And Lillibet On Aussie Tour After Prince Harry ‘Pushed’ For It first appeared on The Blast

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