Why do hotels in Australia take a photocopy your drivers licence?

Good morning.Can anyone explain why hotels and some motels in Australia insist on taking your drivers licence to photocopy when you have to give them a credit card for incidentals,so they would be able to track you down if needed,and can you refuse to hand it over.thanks

In case you inadvertantly forget to pay your bill..;)

Just a basic ID check I believe. With the amount of credit card and ID fraud that is around these days, it is probably just an additional check and measure to reduce their risk. 

They do? Can't say I've had my DL photocopied while staying at Hilton / Holiday Inn / Hyatt across Australia. Might have something to do with having some level of status with the chain.