High Court upholds minister's decision to block visa for American commentator Candace Owens

The High Court has backed a decision by the government to refuse a temporary visa to American commentator Candace Owens Farmer, who had planned a speaking tour to Australia in 2024.

Owens's lawyers argued the decision placed an "impermissible burden" on the implied right to freedom of political communication, and Immigration Minister Tony Burke had incorrectly interpreted the law.

The High Court found the law was valid and applied in circumstances where the person in question would encourage dissension or strife, risking harm to the Australian community.

Frank wrote on Oct 16^th, 2025 at 9:52am:


Why doesn't she just stop being a lying, right-wing, extremist, conspiracy theorist promoting hatred and violence?

Seeya, Candace   

Thousands of refugees who probably hold views more extreme than Candace Owens are welcomed in by a Labor government that knows it will play well in the polls. Unlike Owens and her fleeting tour, these individuals have a permanent impact on Australia.

If Owens’ comments about the Jewish people are a problem for the Minister and the government, Labor needs to explain its issuing of temporary visas to refugees from Gaza who almost certainly hold extreme views about Jewish people.

There are a lot of unanswered questions about the moral consistency of the Labor government.
https://www.spectator.com.au/2025/10/labors-selective-moral-outrage-over-candace-owens-visa/