Photo: Getty Images North America
Conservative commentator Candace Owens has been denied a visa to Australia after the country’s High Court ruled that she failed to meet the nation's "character test" and posed a risk of "inciting discord," per Politico.
The unanimous decision came on Wednesday (October 15) after Owens, who had applied for a visa in November 2024 for a speaking tour, challenged an earlier rejection by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke. Burke denied her visa under Australia’s Migration Act, citing her “extremist and inflammatory comments” targeting "Muslim, Black, Jewish, and LGBTQIA+ communities.”
In its ruling, the High Court affirmed that Australia’s implied freedom of political communication is not an absolute right, and that the government can legally restrict access to individuals deemed likely to “stir up or encourage dissension or strife on political matters.”
“Ms Owens Farmer’s submissions should be emphatically rejected,” High Court Justice James Edelman wrote, referring to Owens by her married name.
Owens' legal team had argued that the visa denial violated Australia’s Constitution, but the court found no grounds to overturn the decision.
Australia’s Department of Home Affairs defines “good character” as including the “enduring moral qualities of a person.” Under the Migration Act, individuals may be denied entry if they present a risk to public order or safety.
“In the current environment where the Australian community is experiencing heightened community tensions, as per the advice of Australia’s security apparatus, I find that there is a risk that Ms. Farmer’s controversial views will amplify grievances among communities and lead to increased hostility and violent or radical action," Burke previously said in a statement.
This marks the second time this year that a high-profile American has been denied entry to Australia. In July, rapper Ye, formerly Kanye West, had his visa revoked due to concerns that he was promoting Nazi ideology in his song “Heil Hitler.”
As part of Wednesday's ruling, Owens has been ordered to pay the government’s court costs.
The Black Information Network is your source for Black News! Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Listen now on the iHeartRadio app or click HERE to tune in live.