People might want to review the current political climate within Thailand.

He is being made an example of given all the protests against the government that have occurred. Much easier to make an example of a foreigner then a protest leader.

That said, if Australians are that offended by this they can choose to holiday in another nation. Thailand is a very popular choice for Aussies and they are in the top ten of country of origin in Thailand. Given the current economic climate this case could be just one more reason to not go there.

It probably would be worse for Thailand if Bali and Fiji were more stable.