King Charles is moving forward with an ambitious royal project in Australia, as plans take shape to transform the historic Hillview Estate into a major cultural and educational centre. The King has personally reviewed the restoration proposals, demonstrating his continued commitment to heritage preservation, traditional skills and sustainable living.
The King’s Foundation recently shared a video showing Charles examining architectural drawings and garden designs for the historic property in Sutton Forest, New South Wales. The estate is expected to become the organisation’s Australian headquarters following its planned transformation.
Known for his lifelong passion for gardening and the natural world, King Charles appeared particularly interested in the proposed landscape designs. The plans have been developed with the assistance of renowned Australian landscape designer Paul Bangay.
Charles and Bangay were also pictured discussing the proposals during a meeting at Dumfries House in Scotland in September. Their discussions focused on the vision for the Australian estate and its potential to become an important centre for education and cultural activities.
Founded by King Charles in 2024, The King’s Foundation Australia has identified the restoration of Hillview Estate as its flagship project. The organisation aims to create a space that brings together heritage conservation, education and environmentally responsible living.
Hillview Estate has a significant history, having previously served as a summer residence for the governors of New South Wales. The proposed restoration will give the historic property a new purpose while preserving its heritage and opening its doors to educational and cultural opportunities.
The ambitious project draws inspiration from Dumfries House in Ayrshire, Scotland. The historic Scottish estate was rescued in 2007 through a major campaign led by Charles when he was still Prince of Wales.
Today, Dumfries House serves as the UK headquarters of The King’s Foundation. It also provides training opportunities in traditional crafts and practical skills, reflecting the organisation’s wider commitment to education, heritage and community development.
Constantine Innemee, chief executive of The King’s Foundation Australia, praised the opportunity to review the initial designs with the King. He described the experience as a privilege and highlighted Charles’s extensive knowledge and interest in the project.
Innemee also explained that the restoration would explore new approaches to living more harmoniously with nature. This vision reflects the King’s longstanding interest in environmental sustainability and the relationship between people and the natural world.
The Australian organisation was launched during King Charles and Queen Camilla’s official visit to the country in 2024. With Hillview Estate now at the centre of its plans, the project represents an important step in expanding the Foundation’s work beyond the United Kingdom.
