King Charles sends 'heartfelt' message to people of Victoria 'during appallingly difficult period'

King Charles has sent a message to the Governor of Victoria in light of the recent flood devastation across the state.

The new monarch, who signs off the letter as "Charles R", offers his "heartfelt thoughts" during the "appallingly difficult period" for the Australian state where he studied as a teen.

"It is with great concern that my wife and I have followed the news of the terrible floods in recent weeks in Victoria," His Majesty said.

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"Our heartfelt thoughts are with all those affected and for the losses that have been suffered.

"Whilst I realise that this emergency is not over, I do want to pay tribute to the extraordinary efforts of those members of the emergency services, Australian Defence Force and the thousands of community volunteers who have been involved in rescue and recovery efforts.

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"It has been particularly inspiring to see how communities have pulled together to protect homes and livestock and to support each other during this appallingly difficult period.

"We send our kindest and special wishes to all Victorians as you continue to demonstrate your remarkable resilience and strength."

King Charles spent two terms at Geelong Grammar's Timbertop campus, a remote school in central Victoria, as a 17-year-old prince.

The new monarch, who may be set to visit Australian shores following his coronation next May, last visited his old school in 2005 to celebrate its 150th anniversary.

The royal has made 16 trips to Australia so far, with his last visit to Victoria in 2012.