South Australia Reports Significant Rise in Counterfeit Currency Offences
South Australia has experienced a sharp increase in counterfeit cash incidents, with 58 offences reported in April 2026 compared to just seven in April 2025, according to SA Police statistics. The counterfeits are primarily targeting retail stores, with criminals focusing on $50 and $100 notes to obtain change. Small business owners are implementing security measures like UV light checks and staff training, though the Reserve Bank notes Australia's counterfeiting rate remains relatively low historically.
South Australia is experiencing a significant surge in counterfeit currency offences, with police reporting 58 incidents in April 2026 versus seven in April 2025—a dramatic increase that has prompted warnings to businesses and the public. The counterfeits are predominantly $50 and $100 notes targeting retail stores, though at least one incident involved a vehicle sale through Facebook Marketplace. Small business owners like Tony Greven, who runs a 24-hour bakery in North Adelaide, have been targeted repeatedly and are now implementing protective measures including UV light verification, staff training on security features, and surveillance systems. The Reserve Bank of Australia acknowledges the increase but contextualizes it as occurring from one of Australia's lowest counterfeiting rates historically, noting that while counterfeit quality remains low, the notes can pass cursory inspection. Offences related to counterfeiting carry penalties of up to 14 years in prison, and the RBA encourages the public to perform quick authentication checks on banknotes.
What's missing
The article does not explain what specific security features distinguish genuine Australian banknotes from counterfeits beyond mentioning watermarks, nor does it detail the methods criminals are using to produce or distribute the fake notes. Additionally, there is no information about whether law enforcement has identified the source of the counterfeits or whether they are domestically produced or imported.
What different sources said
- ABC AustraliaCenter
Bakery trains staff to assess counterfeit notes amid rise in use in SA
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