Billabong's Matthew Perrin in court over alleged mortgage fraud

The former boss of Billabong, Matthew Perrin, has appeared in the Brisbane Magistrate’s Court on charges of defrauding the Commonwealth Bank of Australia of $13.5 million.

The court took Perrin's passport, potentially thwarting plans to marry his fiancée Belinda Otton in a Thailand wedding in December.

Police allege Perrin, 40, provided false documents and a guarantee relating to mortgages taken out on a Gold Coast home in 2008.

Perrin allegedly forged the signature of his now ex-wife, Nicole Bricknell.

Perrin was granted bail and though he argued he was not a flight risk, he had his passport confiscated.

Perrin’s lawyer, Peter Shields, indicated Perrin would plead not guilty.

His appearance in court comes after a three-year investigation by the Queensland Police’s corporate crime division.

The former millionaire and BRW Rich List regular wanted to go to Phuket to be married.

Magistrate Anne Thacker found there was no compelling reason for Perrin to leave and ordered he surrender his passport.

Perrin is now forbidden from contacting three witnesses, including his ex-wife.

The case goes back to court in November 26, and Perrin must stay at his Bundall address.

Perrin, the man who floated surfwear company Billabong, was once worth $150 million, but three defunct companies and a failed marriage later, he is is bankrupt and facing criminal charges.

Perrin lost most of his Billabong fortune in China in 2005, propping up a failing business. The GFC gave him an additional hit, and he filed for bankruptcy in March 2009.

After filing for bankruptcy, Perrin’s marriage to Nicole, the daughter of former bookmaker Laurie Bricknell, fell apart when it emerged Perrin had an affair with his current fiancee Belinda Otton.

Victoria Bricknell listed the seven-bedroom property for sale in January this year after a failed attempt by the Commonwealth Bank to repossess the home.