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ACT Policing is alerting Canberra businesses and members of the public following instances of counterfeit currency being passed to local businesses and private sellers.
Since December last year (2024) police have recorded more than 80 counterfeit cash incidents, with the most recent occurring last week (Thursday, 14 August 2025).
Offenders have targeted a variety of businesses using larger banknote denominations of either $50 or $100. The offenders often use the fake notes to purchase low value items – receiving the balance in legitimate notes.
Police have also received reports of the counterfeit currency being used to purchase items on Facebook marketplace.
Detective Acting Superintendent of Intelligence, Toby Seppings said these counterfeit banknotes may appear genuine at a first glance but often lack key security features found in Australian currency.
“Often the counterfeit currency has COPY or PROP written on the banknote in small letters and they lack the key security features of legitimate cash,” said Det. A/Supt. Seppings.
“When handling cash, especially large notes, people should check for any inconsistencies before accepting them as payment.”
To check security features on Australian banknotes:
- HOLD up to the light to see a seven-pointed star and the Australian Coat of Arms
- TILT to see the bird’s wings move and change colour, and the number change direction
- CHECK clear window is part of the banknote
- TILT to see a rolling colour effect
- USE a UV light to see features fluoresce
For more information on these security features, visit the Reserve Bank of Australia website.
If you come across a banknote that you suspect is counterfeit, please contact police by attending your local police station or calling 131 444 with any relevant information or CCTV if possible.
Anyone with information about the sale or use of counterfeit banknotes is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously.
