Meghan Markle is embracing a more casual vibe during the Sussexes' visit to Australia, inviting everyone to “Call Me Meg.”

Meghan Markle has given a refreshingly straightforward answer to a question that used to be steeped in royal tradition: how should she be addressed? On the first day of her and Prince Harry’s visit to Australia, the Duchess made it clear she prefers a more casual approach, reportedly telling a host, “Call me Meg,” as they kicked off a busy day of public engagements in Melbourne. This moment perfectly set the tone for the Sussexes’ visit right from the start. Instead of leaning into the usual formalities, the couple seemed eager to come across as more relatable and friendly as they interacted with hospital patients, charity workers, and veterans during their initial appearances. Traditionally, members of the British Royal Family are addressed with formal titles like “Your Royal Highness,” followed by “Sir” or “Ma’am.” However, Harry and Meghan’s choice to step back as senior working royals in 2020 has shifted how they engage with the public.

Although they retain their titles as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the couple no longer use “HRH” in their official roles. Since relocating abroad and reshaping their public work around charity initiatives, media production and advocacy projects, they have increasingly embraced a less formal style when interacting with supporters.

The couple had already set this tone at the start of their Australia tour with a meaningful first stop focused on community support and healthcare outreach earlier in the trip.

That shift was clearly visible as their Australian visit got underway, with both appearing relaxed and open as they greeted crowds and spoke with staff at their first engagements of the tour.

Hundreds of well-wishers gathered to greet the couple as they arrived at the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, where they spent time meeting children undergoing treatment and speaking with healthcare workers.

Harry and Meghan paused frequently to take selfies with visitors and hospital staff. Meghan accepted flowers from young supporters and was also presented with a welcome card during the visit, prompting cheers from those gathered nearby.

Observers described the atmosphere as warm and enthusiastic, with many families expressing appreciation for the couple’s willingness to spend time listening to their stories.

The visit formed the first stop in what was a busy opening day designed to highlight both healthcare support services and community initiatives across the city.

Following the hospital visit, Meghan continued her schedule with a stop at a women’s refuge, where she met staff and residents supporting survivors of hardship and crisis. The visit reflected her ongoing advocacy for women’s empowerment and social welfare issues.

Later in the day, she reunited with Harry at the Australian National Veterans' Art Museum, where the couple explored exhibitions honoring the experiences of former service personnel through art and storytelling.

It was during this engagement that Australian poet laureate Steve Cotterill reportedly asked the couple how they preferred to be addressed. Harry is said to have responded casually, “However you like,” while Meghan added with a smile, “Call me Meg?”

According to reports, aides later confirmed a similarly relaxed tone at earlier engagements, telling hospital staff that simply “Harry and Meghan” would be perfectly appropriate.

News of Meghan’s informal response quickly drew attention online, with many supporters praising the couple’s approachable style during the visit.

On social media, some fans said the moment reflected Meghan’s long-standing effort to connect with audiences beyond traditional royal expectations. Others noted that the couple’s tone matched the more modern public roles they have taken on since stepping back from senior royal duties.

There were also comments from observers who said the exchange highlighted how the Sussexes continue to balance their royal heritage with a more independent global profile.

While reactions varied, many agreed the interaction added a personal touch to the opening day of the trip.

Although the exchange may seem small, it carries wider meaning within the context of Harry and Meghan’s evolving public identity.

Since leaving frontline royal roles, the couple have worked to shape a more flexible approach to official appearances. Their willingness to set aside strict titles during public engagements signals a broader shift toward accessibility and direct connection with communities they visit.

For audiences in Australia and beyond, the “Call me Meg” comment was a perfect illustration of how the Duchess is redefining her public image beyond the traditional royal mold. It also highlighted the visit's emphasis on genuine conversation, community involvement, and shared experiences rather than just formalities. In the coming days, the couple's itinerary is set to include more community visits, meetings with veterans’ groups, and appearances to support charitable organizations throughout the region. Observers will be keeping a close eye on how their laid-back approach influences interactions during the trip, especially as they engage with supporters in various cities and settings. If the first day is any indication, Harry and Meghan seem committed to prioritizing connection over convention a message that is likely to resonate deeply with audiences following their journey across Australia.

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