Hmmm... so Australia is with the US then?
In every state and Federal district driving without your license in your possession is a crime - a minor one (misdemeanor) that is normally just a monetary fine (you are written a citation and are allowed to go on your way as long as you don't keep driving), and can be dismissed if you convince the judge that your reason was a good one and that you won't do it again - but a crime nonetheless.