Queen and Duke of Edinburgh visit Australia for first time in five years

The Queen will experience all aspects of Australia’s culture – from barbecues to a city tram ride – during her tour Down Under.

The monarch’s visit, her first to the country in five years, comes ahead of her attendance at a major gathering of prime ministers and presidents in Perth.

The Australian city is hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) – a three-day gathering of world leaders staged every two years.

On the agenda to be discussed, will be proposals aimed at making the Commonwealth more relevant in today’s world.

Highlights of the Queen’s 11-day tour with the Duke of Edinburgh, which begins on 19 October, include a traditional Aussie barbecue, a tram ride through Melbourne and a boat ride up the Brisbane River.

The royal itinerary, released by Buckingham Palace, reveals a comprehensive list of events for the 85-year-old monarch and 90-year-old duke.

The Queen will be based in the Australian capital of Canberra for much of her visit but will also travel to Brisbane and Melbourne.

The monarch will hold audiences with prime minister Julia Gillard and opposition leader Tony Abbott during her third day on tour, while Prince Philip will attend a reception for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Australia’s military heritage and its servicemen and women – and veterans – will be recognised by the Queen.

The royal couple will spend their last day in Australia at the Big Aussie BBQ event before returning to the UK on 29 October.