Royal | News - Prince Ricardo De La Cerda
King Charles III is set for a “major royal tour” just months after being diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer.
The 75-year-old monarch is currently preparing to embark on a 20-hour flight to Australia in October and early November, according to reports.
With his health thought be a reason that the trip may not go ahead as planned, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed that they are still planning on welcoming the King and Queen Camilla for the visit.
The cancer was discovered as the King underwent a planned – although unrelated – operation for an enlarged prostate in January. The Australian Prime Minister has said that government is engaging in conversations for options on the forthcoming visit.
The Australian leader said: “Australia is preparing for a possible visit from his Majesty the King to Australia later this year.
“The King has shown his compassion for Australians affected by recent natural disasters, just as Australians have shown compassion and support for the King following his cancer diagnosis.
“The King, Queen and members of the Royal family are always welcome in Australia.
“My government is engaging with states and territories on options for a possible royal visit.”
During the past six decades, the now-King has made 15 official visits to Australia. Although this forthcoming visit will be his first as monarch.
His most-recent visit was to open the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in 2018.
His first visit occurred in the 1960s, when the now-monarch spent two terms as a student at the Geelong Grammar School near Melbourne.
The visit also marks 13 years since a ruling monarch has gone down under, as the late Queen Elizabeth II last visited in October 2011.
Following news of his cancer diagnosis in early February, the King is still taking a step back from public duties.
The monarch will not be present at the Commonwealth Day Service of Celebration at Westminster Abbey on March 11.
Queen Camilla will be leading members of the Royal Family, including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal and the Prince of Wales.