In this episode of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux sits down with John Darley, former Valuer General of South Australia and former Member of Parliament, to discuss critical issues affecting property owners, taxation, and policy failures. Special comments by Les Elekes add further depth to the discussion.

Topics Covered

• Property Taxation & Land Valuation Issues

  • Why property taxes keep increasing even when property values fluctuate.
  • How property valuations are now done by AI rather than in-person inspections.
  • Homeowners' rights to challenge their property valuation.
  • The lack of transparency in how valuations are determined.

• The Impact of Rising Cost of Living

  • The increasing burden of council rates, emergency services levy, and land tax.
  • Why the Valuer General refuses to provide evidence for valuation assessments.
  • How rising rental prices & real estate inflation are making housing unaffordable.

• Foreign Ownership of Australian Property

  • Should foreign buyers be restricted from purchasing Australian property?
  • The rise in Chinese investment and its impact on local buyers.
  • Proposed Liberal Party policies to limit foreign ownership.

• Political Insights & Leadership

  • Why politicians ignore older Australians and how to push back.
  • The failures of public service and the decline of true leadership.
  • What makes a good politician and why many fail in their roles.

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Are Australians being illegally taxed on their own land? In this episode, Jeremy Cordeaux raises a shocking legal question: Could all property taxes be illegal? With land officially labeled as “Aboriginal land” by government declarations, does that make land taxes, stamp duty, and capital gains tax a fraudulent practice?

🎙 Topics covered in this episode: ✔️ The Oscars: Did anyone even watch them?
✔️ Why property taxes might be illegal in Australia
✔️ Qantas’ billion-dollar profit: Are customers being ripped off?
✔️ Youth crime crisis: Should parents be held legally responsible?
✔️ Transgender controversy: How a man was named "Woman of the Year"
✔️ Why private health insurance is becoming unaffordable

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📍 Live every Friday at 9 a.m. (ACST) via jeremycordeau.com & Auscast Network.

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This article from the Associated Press reports on the potential imposition of tariffs on Mexican imports by the United States. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated her administration was awaiting confirmation of the threatened 25% tariffs by US President Donald Trump. Trump later affirmed that the tariffs would take effect on Tuesday, allowing "no room" for delay. Mexico believes it has demonstrated its commitment to addressing US concerns, highlighting decreased migrant arrivals and actions against drug cartels. Despite Mexico's efforts and offers, the US appears set to proceed with the tariffs. The article also provides context about past agreements and potential economic risks. The Associated Press emphasizes its dedication to accurate and unbiased news reporting.

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Pedro Sánchez of Spain affirms his nation's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. He highlights Spain's active participation in EU sanctions against Russia and its efforts to reduce energy dependence on the country, diversifying supply to North America. Spain has pledged one billion euros annually for the next decade to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities. Sánchez also emphasizes broad societal support within Spain for aiding Ukraine, driven by a shared understanding of the importance of peace and security in Europe. Spain welcomes the enlargement of the EU to include Ukraine and is hosting a Ukrainian hub to assist refugees, recognising their own history of solidarity and support.

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A Qantas flight bound for Perth experienced a major disruption when smoke was detected in the cockpit shortly after take-off from Sydney. The Boeing 737 was forced to make an emergency landing back in Sydney, where it was met by emergency services. Passengers reported a smell in the cabin and were informed of the smoke and fumes upon landing, causing concern. The incident is considered a matter of concern given recent mechanical issues and emergency landings involving Qantas. Despite the disruption, passengers were awaiting a replacement flight to Perth. The event occurred shortly after Qantas announced upgrades to its domestic fleet and reported a substantial profit.

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We dive into an interview with Jennifer Parker from the National Security College, discussing the implications of recent Chinese naval activity near Australia. Parker acknowledges that while the presence of Chinese warships is not inherently threatening, the circumnavigation of Australia signals a shift in regional dynamics and China's capabilities. She suggests the timing of the deployment, occurring after Donald Trump took office, is likely strategic. While Australia's geography offers some protection, its extensive sea lanes make it vulnerable. Parker argues that increased defence spending is essential to ensure Australia possesses the capabilities needed to address evolving regional threats. She concludes by expressing hope for a European-led ceasefire in Ukraine but believes Australia's role lies primarily in providing support.

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We dive into a press conference addressing the impending Tropical Cyclone Alfred's threat to Queensland. Authorities urge residents to prepare for potential impacts like flooding, storm surge, and damaging winds. Island communities and low-lying coastal areas are prioritised for preparedness. The conference stresses the importance of staying informed through official channels and community support. Essential services, infrastructure, and supermarket supplies are also being managed to mitigate the cyclone's effects. Schools will remain open and updates regarding closures will be given the day before.

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Al Jazeera reports on a displacement crisis in Catatumbo, Colombia, sparked by renewed conflict between rebel groups. This violence, occurring despite a 2016 peace agreement with FARC, has forced tens of thousands to flee their homes, overwhelming resources in areas like Cucuta. The displaced face food shortages and uncertainty about returning, straining humanitarian aid efforts. President Petro's "total peace" policy faces challenges as peace talks with the ELN stall and the state struggles to establish a presence in rural areas. The lack of infrastructure and the flourishing coca trade exacerbate the crisis, leaving residents questioning when they can return home. The article highlights the dire situation and the limitations of current efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and provide adequate support.

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PS News reports that a Cape York man has been arrested in Colombia. The individual, in his 50s and employed by a council contractor, was allegedly caught with 3.5 kilograms of cocaine while attempting to depart the country. Authorities believe the man has made multiple trips between Colombia and Dubai in recent months. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance, though further details are limited due to privacy obligations. The article, originally published in the Cape York Weekly, also touches on unrelated topics, including public sector news, career advice, lifestyle features, and property.

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Colombian senators are proposing new regulations for the cryptocurrency industry, aiming to protect users and foster investment. The proposed bill seeks to establish a VASP operating permit system to ensure compliance with AML/CFT protocols. Lawmakers believe current lack of regulation creates risks for consumers and enables misuse of cryptoassets. They want to create a more reliable environment with guarantees for the sector. However, some experts caution against overly strict rules that could stifle innovation and drive crypto businesses elsewhere. A balanced legal framework, including reasonable taxation, is crucial for sustainable growth and adoption in Colombia.

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