Under section 6 of the Regulatory Offences Act 1985 in Queensland, it is an offence to leave a hotel without paying for the accommodation, food, or other services provided. This offence is also known as "dine and dash" or "hotel skipping."
What is the offence?
The offence is committed if a person:
- Stays in a hotel; or
- Receives food, drink, accommodation, or other services from the hotel or a restaurant; and
- Does not pay for the services or food and drink
The value of the services does not matter, as long as it is less than $150.
What is the penalty?
If you are charged with leaving a hotel without payment, you may be liable to a fine of up to $300. You may also be ordered to pay compensation to the hotel for the value of the services you received.
Defences
There are a few defences to the charge of leaving a hotel without payment. For example, you may be able to argue that you had a reasonable belief that you would be able to pay for the services, or that you were forced to leave the hotel due to an emergency.
If you are charged with leaving a hotel without payment, it is important to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and your legal options.
What if the value was more than $300?
If the value of the food, drink or accommodation was more than $150 then a more serious charge of fraud would likely be bought against you. This carries with it a higher chance that a conviction will be recorded that would stay on your criminal history for 5 years.
Here are some things to keep in mind if you are charged with leaving a hotel without payment:
- The police may not charge you with the offence immediately. They may first try to contact you and ask you to pay for the services. If you do not pay, they may then issue you with a summons to appear in court.
- If you are charged with the offence, you will be given a court date. You must attend court on this date, or you may be issued with a warrant for your arrest.
- If you are found guilty of leaving a hotel without payment, you may be fined or ordered to pay compensation to the hotel.
- If the value of the food, drink or accommodation is more than $150 then a more serious charge will likely be bought.
