Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have received a mixed reception following the start of their four-day trip in Australia showcasing causes they care deeply about. From veterans to children and mental health to sport, the former senior royals will visit places in Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney over a jam-packed few days.

The couple were initially met by harsh comments when arriving at Melbourne airport with one traveller claiming to ‘hate’ Meghan.

Another Australian told the BBC in Sydney:”They are very much about self promotion, they’d probably be my least favourite royals, put it that way.”

The backlash comes as thousands of people are disgruntled that taxpayer cash has been spent ensuring their safety. Over 46,000 people have signed a petition demanding that no taxpayers’ money be spent on their visit.

However, despite the negative comments, the Duke and Duchess received a warm reception at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, their first stop of the tour, with patients and parents saying the visit brought ‘smiles’ to all.

The busy itinerary does not include any opportunities for Harry and Meghan to stop and greet members of the public due to “security and costs associated with keeping public order”.