The controversial speaking tour of American commentator Candace Owens in Australia has left a trail of financial wreckage, with the event promoter collapsing into liquidation and numerous ticket buyers stranded without their money. The crisis stems directly from the Australian government's decision to block Owens' visa over concerns of potential social discord.
Visa Denial Sparks Financial Domino Effect
The sequence of events began in early 2024 when Australia’s Immigration Minister, Tony Burke, personally intervened to deny Owens a visa. Burke stated the decision was made to prevent the risk of social tension within the country. Despite a legal challenge from Owens, the Australian High Court ultimately upheld the government's stance. This visa refusal came just weeks before Owens' planned national speaking tour, which was being managed by the promoter Rocksman.
With the tour officially cancelled, Rocksman faced insurmountable financial pressure. A company spokesperson revealed they had incurred significant upfront costs, with revenue contingent on the events proceeding. The sudden cancellation, coupled with existing tax debts, pushed the company toward insolvency. Documents filed with Australia’s corporate regulator confirm that Rocksman entered liquidation in December.
Liquidation Leaves Ticket Holders in the Lurch
The fallout for fans has been severe. Tickets for the events started at $95, but more than a year after the cancellation, refunds remain unpaid. Official liquidation papers show Rocksman owed $68,395.54 to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and listed no significant assets beyond a bank account of unknown value.
David Sampson, the liquidator from BPS Resolved, has indicated it is highly unlikely that creditors, which include the aggrieved ticket holders, will recover any funds. The ATO has also confirmed it is pursuing the recovery of unpaid taxes through the liquidation process. Consumer protection agencies in New South Wales, Queensland, and New Zealand have all reported receiving complaints from affected individuals.
Rocksman initially promised refunds by the end of November 2024, a commitment that was not fulfilled. The company later shifted responsibility, claiming in "good faith" that another entity was handling repayments. Owens' own team has distanced itself from the refund issue, stating unequivocally that Rocksman was solely responsible for financial transactions.
Stakeholders React as Hopes for Refunds Fade
Minister Tony Burke recently reiterated his position, commenting that he had hoped the promoter had a robust refund policy in place. He added a sharp critique of Owens, suggesting she had "treated her own supporters with contempt."
Rocksman was founded in 2022 by George Zacharia. While the company had touring support from noted promoter Damien Costas, Costas was not involved in the Owens tour and has declined to comment. The liquidation effectively marks a bitter end to a saga that has left fans out of pocket and a small business dissolved.
The situation serves as a stark reminder of the financial risks involved in large-scale event planning, especially when subject to sudden regulatory changes. For the many who purchased tickets, the path to getting their money back now appears closed.
