Video Transcript
Did you know that Australian banknotes are among the safest in the world?
And to keep it that way, the Reserve Bank is introducing a new series.
Like this new $10 banknote.
They have many innovative security features you can use to check if the banknote is real.
Counterfeits have no value so it's important to know what real security features look like.
First of all, the new banknotes, are still printed on plastic. One of the first features people notice is the unique top to bottom window. It contains several security features including a flying cockatoo. Tilt the banknote and you'll see the cockatoo move its wings.
Another thing to look out for is the building at the bottom of the window. Inside the building is a number ten that changes direction. See how it faces one direction then the other?
Look closely and you'll discover even more detail.
In multiple locations on both sides of the banknote you can see clearly defined tiny text, including excerpts from ‘The Man from Snowy River’ by Banjo Paterson.
In the top corner on the Mary Gilmore side you'll see a prominent patch that changes colour in a rolling effect. The bar of colour moves up and down as you tilt the banknote. Turn the banknote over again and you'll see the rolling colour effect on the cockatoo above the signatures.
Now, to see this next security feature we have to turn out the lights. Put the banknote under UV light and on one side a bird and wattle feature is revealed. On the other side you will the serial number glow and the year of print appear.
There are more security features but with these key features you should be able to quickly and easily identify genuine banknotes.
If you suspect a banknote to be counterfeit, you have the right to refuse to accept it.
But if you do come across a suspect banknote handle it as little as possible and place it in an envelope, because it
may be needed by the Police as evidence. Also record as much relevant information as you can, such as where, when
and how it came into your possession. You should then take it to State or Federal police as soon as possible, as it
is an offence to knowingly possess counterfeit banknotes.
Remember, you won't be reimbursed for a counterfeit, it has no value. Knowing how to check the security features is the best way to protect yourself.
You can find out more by visiting banknotes.rba.gov.au, you can download the RBA Banknotes App or call 1800,633 220.