Services we provide
Counterfeit examination and expert witness statements
The Reserve Bank maintains a dedicated counterfeit examination laboratory to assist the AFP with the administration and handling of counterfeits. Qualified Reserve Bank personnel examine suspect counterfeit banknotes sent to the AFP Currency Team, to collect information on counterfeiting techniques and trends across Australia.
The Reserve Bank can assist with prosecution cases by providing expert witness statements and attending court, when necessary. Statements can be given on both Australian and foreign counterfeit banknotes.
If you require an expert witness statement for court, please contact the AFP in the first instance.
In addition to services related to counterfeit currency the Reserve Bank can also assist law enforcement by providing information and expert witness statements identifying the date of print or date of issue of genuine Australian banknotes. For assistance or statements relating to genuine banknotes' date of print or date of issue, please contact us.
Education and training
The Reserve Bank can provide counterfeit detection brochures free of charge. If you would like to obtain brochures, contact us. The Reserve Bank's Quick Reference Counterfeit Detection Guide – both polymer series 1MB and Security Feature Flyers for the
- new $5 banknote 3.1MB,
- new $10 banknote 2MB,
- new $50 banknote 8MB,
- new $20 banknote 4.3MB and
- new $100 banknote 1.8MB
are also available to download.
The Reserve Bank can also provide training for law enforcement officers on relevant topics such as:
- relevant legislation;
- administrative arrangements;
- security features and banknote authentication; and
- common questions in relation to Australian banknotes.
If you would like help, training or advice, please contact us.
Media releases
The Reserve Bank can assist law enforcement agencies in preparing media releases relating to counterfeit currency. In particular, Reserve Bank staff have the technical knowledge and expertise to properly describe genuine and counterfeit banknotes.
If you would like any assistance or advice with preparing a media release, please contact us.