Counterfeit Detection Guide

First polymer series features

Feel the note. Does it feel right?

Hold up to the light to see a seven-pointed star and the Australian Coat of Arms

Check clear window is part of the banknote

Second polymer series features

Feel the note. Does it feel right?

Tilt to see the bird’s wings move and change colour, and the number in the building change direction

Tilt to see a rolling colour effect

Similar security features are used on all denominations

With these key security features you can quickly and easily check your banknote is real. See the full list of Security Features.

Common myths about banknotes

Myth

Banknotes without the printed name below the portrait are counterfeit.

Fact

A banknote without the name of the person below the portrait is not necessarily counterfeit. Printed names were added to Australian banknotes from 2002. This was done to help the public identify the people that our banknotes feature.

To determine the year a banknote was produced, look at the first two numerals of the serial number e.g. 99 means the banknote was printed in 1999, while 03 means the banknote was printed in 2003.

Myth

The Governor's signature is always above the Secretary to the Treasury's.

Fact

The order of the signatures on Australian banknotes was changed in 2002. Since then, the Governor's signature has been printed above that of the Secretary to the Treasury.

Suspect Banknotes

It is an offence to knowingly possess or use counterfeit banknotes. Suspect banknotes should be given to your local police.

Counterfeits have no value – you will not be reimbursed. If they are determined to be genuine banknotes, they will be returned to you.

If you come across a banknote that you suspect is counterfeit, Store It, Note It, Report It.

  • Store safely:  Handle the suspect banknote as little as possible and store it in an envelope.
  • Note details:  Note any relevant information, such as how it came into your possession.
  • Report to police:  Report the matter immediately to your local police station.

You are well within your rights to refuse to accept a banknote if you have concerns about it. Under no circumstances should you take actions that may jeopardise your safety or that of others.

For more information

Call: +61 2 9551 8111
9.00 am – 4.00 pm, Monday to Friday
Email: rbainfo@rba.gov.au

Quick Reference Counterfeit Detection Guide – both polymer series 1MB