The king doesn’t reset the government and him interfering with our politics would probably lead to more support for us to be a republic.
There is a balance between authoritarianism and sensible regulation. China is too far one way, the USA is too far the other way. Freedom comes from the abilitiy for more people to live their lives as they please.
Protesting is important. Protecting civil rights is important. Australia goes too far on quashing disriptive protest, but is tolerant of peaceful organised protest. Disruptive protest is more effective.
It still can be. However, it’s often just a demonstration rather than a protest.