The streets of Sydney were John Anderson's home for 30 months
John Anderson, 50, was trapped in the country in 1991 when the hotel in which he was staying refused to return his passport until he paid up. He was forced to live on the streets and says the experience ruined his life.
By the time he returned to Britain, 30 months later, he had lost his home, marriage, career and health. He is now planning to sue the Country Comfort Motel in Sydney.
Mr Anderson's passport was held under ancient common law, which allowed innkeepers to seize travellers' property to meet bad debts.
Mr Anderson is calling for the law to be changed. He fears that unless the situation is clarified, visitors to the 2000 Sydney Olympics could suffer the same fate.
The Australian Government says the practice is illegal and has asked Olympics organisers to raise the matter with all hotels.
Country Comfort says it was in its rights as Mr Anderson originally offered his passport as security on his bill.