The threat that a bitter racial conflict could cast a shadow over the next visit is enough to make the royals think twice about leaving home again.
This is the political and cultural situation the King and his family have to navigate, and one might wonder why a prominent protester was allowed to get so close to the King and have such an embarrassing exchange.
The reason is simple, and the questions should focus on the possible alternative.
If Buckingham Palace were trying to expel Lydia Thorpe from Parliament, the headlines would be bleak.
Palace sources acknowledged that Mr Thorpe had been concerned he would become the centre of attention on the king’s trip Down Under, but sought to use it as a “sign of mutual respect and understanding for the meetings” in Canberra.
Unfortunately, I say the senators have shown a lack of respect and understanding.
The world is always changing, but that is especially not the case in today’s society. The King knows he will have to have sometimes uncomfortable conversations, especially with communities and individuals who he believes have been wronged by the UK.
But given his overwhelmingly positive reception in Australia and his response to the pandemic, it is no wonder that Charles continues to operate unfazed.
There is no hiding place for the family and the old empire. With respectful royal tours a thing of the past, incidents like this are cause for concern.