A surge in counterfeit cash is raising alarms across Australia, with authorities warning consumers and business owners that they may have unknowingly circulated fake notes.

The Australian Border Force (ABF) has seized more than $2.5 million in counterfeit currency across 330 packages since the start of last year, with seizures peaking in August when $747,000 in fake cash was intercepted in 83 packages.

ABF Assistant Commissioner for Customs, Compliance and Enforcement Tony Smith said most of the fake cash is entering the country from Asia, and the quality of counterfeit notes is steadily improving.

“We’re seeing counterfeit currency come through that has very strong similarities and synergies with real currency,” Smith told ABC’s 7.30 program.

The ABF reported a staggering 700 per cent increase in counterfeit cash seizures during the first six weeks of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025. In that timeframe alone, authorities intercepted $191,130 in fake cash across 57 packages.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) believes technological advances, including 3D printing and artificial intelligence, may be helping counterfeiters replicate security features on notes.

Police in every state and territory have issued warnings about the counterfeit money now circulating in the community. It is illegal in Australia to make, possess, or knowingly use fake currency, and offenders can face severe penalties.

How to spot fake notes

RBA counterfeit scientist Nicole Stephenson told ABC that one of the simplest ways to check a banknote is by touch. Genuine notes have slightly raised ink on portraits, giving a textured feel, while counterfeits are often unusually smooth.

Other warning signs include notes that feel too thick or thin, tear easily along the edge, or fail to spring back when scrunched in the hand. Authorities have noted that many fake notes currently in circulation are marked with the word “props.”

Security features to look for include:

  • Older notes: Hold to the light to see a seven-pointed star and the Australian Coat of Arms.
  • Newer notes: Tilt the note to see rolling colour effects in a top-corner patch and a bird shape, with the bird moving its wings and changing colour. Numbers in the building illustration should also change direction when viewed from different angles.

The ABF and RBA are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious banknotes to authorities.