Bundaberg Man Fined Under Queensland's Guide Dog Laws for Refusing Accommodation and Charging Cleaning Fee
First prosecution under the state's Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dogs Act since 2009.
BUNDABERG, Australia – A Queensland accommodation provider has been fined for refusing service to a legally blind woman and her guide dog in what has been described as a landmark case.
Brendan Farrugia pleaded guilty in Bundaberg Magistrates Court on April 30, 2025, to two charges under Queensland's guide dog laws. The court heard that Farrugia refused accommodation to Janice Whittle, who is legally blind and uses a guide dog, and also imposed an extra cleaning fee of $100.
Magistrate John McInnes fined Farrugia $2,200 for refusing accommodation and $600 for imposing the additional fee. No conviction was recorded.
A Discriminatory Encounter
The incident occurred in December 2024 after Janice Whittle booked the accommodation. Upon her arrival, Farrugia refused her stay, citing he "didn't like dogs in the house." He offered an alternative: she could stay if she paid a $100 cleaning fee. She declined and received a full refund.
The Legal Context
Queensland's Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dogs Act 2009 permits handlers to bring assistance dogs into most public places and accommodations. This was the first prosecution under the act since its introduction.
Courtroom Proceedings
The prosecutor argued the conduct "should be denounced by the court" and emphasized the need to deter such discrimination.
Farrugia's defence lawyer stated he was "misinformed" about the laws, and that public awareness of the legislation is low. However, Magistrate McInnes noted that ignorance of the law is not an excuse and that accommodation providers are expected to know essential rules.
Reactions
Janice Whittle expressed disappointment with the fine amount, calling it "pretty pathetic."
Guide Dogs Queensland CEO Jock Beveridge called the case "very significant" and said he hoped it sends a clear message that discrimination is not acceptable.
Mag. McInnes: "Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Accommodation providers are expected to know essential rules."