A viral meme is circulating online, promoting what it calls a “life hack” for dealing with soaring petrol prices, but the so called solution could land drivers in serious legal trouble.
With Premium 98 averaging $2.77 per litre nationwide and reportedly pushing beyond $3 in some areas, some motorists are being tempted by petrol station “drive offs”. The post, shared widely on social media, tries to justify the illegal act by breaking down the supposed savings, stating: “98 Fuel: $3.48 per litre. Full tank: $240. Drive off without paying: Court date and an $80 fine. Total Savings: $160.”
The comments may be full of encouragement, but Melbourne criminal defence lawyer Lauren Cassimatis says the meme’s central message, that you can simply factor in a small fine and move on, is completely wrong.
“Driving off without paying for fuel is a criminal offence,” Ms Cassimatis said. “It’s usually prosecuted as theft or obtaining property by deception under each state’s Crimes Act. It’s not a minor infringement”.
She explains it is not treated like a parking fine or a speeding ticket, and there is no single standard penalty. “Across Australia, this conduct can lead to criminal charges, hefty fines, a criminal conviction, and in serious or repeated cases, even jail time,” she said.
Beyond any immediate costs, she warns the long term consequences can be far more damaging, including a lasting mark on your record that may affect employment opportunities, travel plans and background checks. “It’s dishonest conduct – a type of fraud,” Ms Cassimatis says. “While it’s costly to fill up your tank now, not paying could cost you much more in the long run”.
And for anyone assuming they will not be identified, she says service station surveillance is sophisticated. “Most stations have high-definition CCTV and number plate recognition systems,” Ms Cassimatis warned. “If a vehicle keeps offending, it quickly gets flagged”.
With more Australians on the road over busy holiday periods, the pressure at the bowser can be real, especially if a card is declined. Ms Cassimatis says there is a lawful alternative. “Go inside and talk to the staff,” Ms Cassimatis advises. “Most service stations have a ‘Fail to Pay’ procedure. You show ID, sign an acknowledgment of debt, and agree to return to pay it.
“The moment you drive off without engaging, it becomes a criminal matter. A tough chat at the counter is always better than a court date later.”
