Australian consumers who purchased tickets for conservative commentator Candace Owens’ canceled tour now face near-certain financial losses following the formal liquidation of the promoting company. Rocksman, the Australian-based promoter responsible for organizing Owens’ scheduled 2024 speaking engagements across Australia and New Zealand, has ceased operations after entering insolvency proceedings in December.
The financial collapse stems directly from Immigration Minister Tony Burke’s decision to deny Owens entry to Australia weeks before her planned appearances. Government officials expressed concerns that the controversial commentator’s presence could potentially incite public discord. Owens’ subsequent legal challenge ultimately failed when Australia’s High Court upheld the ministerial ruling in October 2024.
Rocksman’s financial situation deteriorated rapidly following the visa denial. Company representatives acknowledged that significant upfront investments had been made with revenue contingent upon the events actually occurring. Combined with existing tax liabilities, the cancellation created insurmountable financial pressure that forced the company into liquidation.
Corporate filings reveal Rocksman owes $68,395.54 to the Australian Taxation Office while possessing minimal recoverable assets beyond a bank account of undisclosed value. David Sampson, the appointed liquidator from BPS Resolved, has explicitly warned ticket holders that recouping their investments appears highly improbable given the company’s financial position.
Consumer protection agencies across New South Wales, Queensland and New Zealand have reported numerous complaints from disappointed fans who purchased tickets starting at $95. Despite previous assurances that refunds would be processed by November’s end, no repayments have materialized for most purchasers.
Minister Burke defended the visa decision this week, suggesting Owens should have delayed ticket sales or implemented more robust refund policies. The Immigration Minister remarked that Owens had ‘treated her own supporters with contempt’ through the handling of the canceled events.