The Sussexes’ trip is now understood to be privately funded.
“Since stepping down from royal duties in 2020, [the Duke and Duchess] no longer represent the Crown and now operate private commercial ventures based in the United States”, the petition reads.
“At a time when Australians are facing significant cost-of-living pressures, including rising grocery bills, fuel prices, mortgage stress driven by interest rate hikes, and increasing energy costs, public resources must be used responsibly,” it says.
A spokesperson for the couple told the Daily Mail: “It’s a moot point. The trip is being funded privately, so I’m not sure what this petition hopes to achieve.”
Earlier this month, Markle, 44, was announced as the featured guest speaker at the “Her Best Life Retreat” in Sydney, billed as “a girls’ weekend like no other!”
Tickets to the sold-out event cost up to A$3199 ($3860), with VIP guests promised a group photo with the Suits actor.
The event will accommodate 300 guests who are expected to take part in wellness sessions designed to facilitate “powerful conversations, relaxation, laughter and unforgettable experiences”.
Prince Harry was also announced as the headline speaker at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit in Melbourne.
The event’s website says the 41-year-old will join other “global thought leaders” sharing insights on mental health and workplace wellbeing.
Tickets for the summit start at A$1978.
RadarOnline reported the tour will be recorded by reality TV cameras for a potential new streaming project.
Sources close to the couple claimed they are working to produce a “glossy travel and food documentary highlighting Australia’s culture, landscapes and cuisine”.
Markle’s Netflix show With Love, Meghan was cancelled after two seasons after scathing reviews.