@Matthew ******

Then you're lucky.

Your friend is fine with a Thai DL, you're not, however, as an Australian ID is not acceptable per CAAT ID rules - see below. If you've got photocopies of your passport with supporting documentation, you might get away with it, though - but it would be up to not just the airline, but airport security as well.

Also out of interest, when did handing over passports become a requirement to get a WP?

It's a proposal, nothing more or less, but unfortunately half of the Thai media were seemingly dropped on their heads as children and don't understand what a proposal is.

@Wylie ******

it all depends on the Immigration office.

SCB up to 200k but you have to sign a waiver in a branch

@Katherine *******

the extension of stay is tied to the work permit; once the work permit is up, he has 24 hours to leave Thailand.

@Werner ***********

Five years ago was the first year of COVID - you're grossly mistaken if you think things are worse now than they were then.

Given you're a Brit, you don't qualify for Visa On Arrival and VOA is 15 days

Word of advice - go easier on the booze.

If you want to live in Thailand, get a visa. You can't live in Thailand forever on visa exempt entries.