Queen touches down in Perth

The Queen has arrived in Perth ready to officially open the Commonwealth leaders' meeting on Friday.


She touched down in the West Australian capital on Wednesday to be greeted by hundreds of wellwishers before being whisked to Government House in central Perth.


Commonwealth foreign ministers have been meeting in the city ahead of the three-day Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).


They have been discussing whether to appoint a Commonwealth commissioner for democracy, human rights and the rule of law as recommended by an Eminent Persons Group.


But some members are known to oppose the idea and could block its approval.


Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has arrived in Perth to find himself the target of human rights abuse accusations, relating to his country's recent civil war.


Prime Minister Julia Gillard met him on Wednesday and urged him to ensure his country's reconciliation commission addressed the allegations.


The foreign ministers continue their talks on Thursday as a three-day Commonwealth Business Forum wraps up in the city.


Hundreds of extra police from around Australia and New Zealand have been flown in to assist with security during CHOGM.


They pair was greeted by about 400 clapping and flag-waving well-wishers who braved the damp weather at Perth Airport on Wednesday.


"I'm originally from England. I love everything English," said onlooker Mandy.


"I've got English flags on my car. I've got a Buckingham Palace plaque on my house. I tell everyone I'm related to the Queen.


"[It is] just a chance to let the kids see what the monarch is all about and I think she's fantastic - who else would do all of that?"


It is the Royal couple's first visit to the state since 2000.


The Governor of Western Australia, Malcolm McCusker, WA Premier Colin Barnett and Federal Defence Minister Stephen Smith were on the tarmac to greet the pair.


"Yes, we saw her. I wish we were a bit closer and can't wait till Saturday now," said royal watcher Vicki Jeffery.


Traffic lights were timed to give the Royal couple a smooth ride from the airport to Government House in the city during peak hour.


The Royal couple were quickly whisked away to Government House.


The pair are in Perth for three nights, with the Queen due to officially open the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting on Friday.


She had no official engagement on Wednesday night.