The rather low-key ceremony took place without any fanfare in the white drawing room at Windsor Castle, where they were joined by Australia’s high commissioner in the UK, Alexander Downer.
“The Queen today invested the Duke of Edinburgh with the insignia of a Knight of the Order of Australia at Windsor Castle,” Buckingham Palace said in a short statement.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced the knighthood back in January as part of the Australia Day honours and the Queen supported the recommendation.
“Prince Philip’s long life of service and dedication should be honoured by Australia.” Prime Minister Tony Abbott said at the time.
The Queen and Prince Philip are greeted by Australia’s high commissioner in the UK, Alexander Downer.
The ceremony comes a day after the Queen celebrated her 89th birthday, with many royal well-wishers hoping the celebration continues, with the Duchess of Cambridge due to give birth her second child any day.
Despite Duchess Catherine not officially commenting on her due date, many believe the birth is imminent with Prince William on paternity leave and Prince Harry making a pit stop to London prior to his commitments to attend Gallipoli commemorations in Turkey.
Many Royal fans have already set up camp outside the exclusive Lindo Wing at St Mary’s Hospital in London, in a bid to catch a glimpse of the new baby.
One royal fan and memorabilia collector, Margaret Tyler, shared the thoughts of many: “I am very excited, over the moon,” she beamed.
Adding: “I am mostly going to be here until it all happens. I wake up every night to put the TV on to check if anything has happened.”
