Canberra Alerts: Over 80 Counterfeit Incidents Since December
ACT Policing has issued a warning to businesses and private sellers in Canberra and the ACT area: more than 80 incidents of counterfeit banknotes have been recorded since December 2024, with the most recent case on Thursday, 14 August 2025.
Offenders often use fake $50 or $100 notes to pay for low-cost items—then receive the rest in genuine currency. These knockoffs aren’t always obvious—some even bear the words “COPY” or “PROP,” apparently intended for film or theatrical use.
Real-Life Warning: A Retail Worker’s Experience
Retail worker Sophie Jukes recounts how she was momentarily fooled by a counterfeit $100 note in her Canberra city centre store. She noticed the bill felt “very plastic‑y” and had visible inaccuracies—it appeared based on an older design missing the clear film and coded elements.
Quick and Effective Security Checks for Banknotes
To help you assess banknote authenticity, here are the key features to verify (adapted and consolidated from ABC News and ACT Policing guidance):
- Hold it up to the light
→ Look for a seven-pointed star and the Australian Coat of Arms on older notes. - Tilt the note
→ Newer notes should show a rolling colour effect, plus moving wings in the bird motif, and a direction-shifting numeral. - Inspect the clear window
→ Older series: small corner window with a white ink motif that isn’t easily rubbed off.
→ Newer series: a full-length clear window with embossed imagery. - Use a UV light
→ Older notes: serial numbers and denominations “fluoresce.”
→ Newer notes also show UV features. - Check the feel and texture
→ Genuine polymer notes bounce back when crumpled. They also feature intaglio (raised) printing and microprinting.
Be Alert, Especially When Handling High-Value Notes
ACT Policing’s Detective Acting Superintendent Toby Seppings urged particularly cash-heavy businesses to be vigilant, especially with large denominations like $50 and $100. The tactic of “overpaying” for small items to receive change is a common modus operandi.
There have also been reports of counterfeits being used in Facebook Marketplace exchanges—so it’s wise to verify notes in all face-to-face cash transactions.
What to Do If You Encounter a Suspected Fake Note
- Handle it minimally — preserve any potential evidence.
- Report it — visit your nearest police station or call 131 444; provide details and CCTV if available.
- Use Crime Stoppers — remain anonymous by contacting 1800 333 000 or submitting a report via the Crime Stoppers ACT website
