The first counterfeit detected was a $100 note with the serial number CD08284521, similar to a batch of notes sporting the same serial number reported in Melbourne earlier this year.
After local police passed on the information to the Rochester Business Network, the RBN was alerted again on Thursday, December 11, about a counterfeit $20 note also making the rounds.
RBN president Sanjay Ranchhod said it was important for business owners to remain vigilant, especially during the busy festive season.
“We don’t really check the notes coming up to Christmas ... this time of year everyone is so busy, so we don’t get to check,” he said.
“I think you just have to do your due diligence and do the right thing ... I am checking all the notes now.”
The counterfeits that have been found are imitations of the first polymer note series, which are still in circulation following the introduction of the second polymer series between 2016 and 2020.
According to the Reserve Bank of Australia, there are different security measures that can help people spot a fake note.
Most counterfeits are printed on paper and can be easily torn, and a genuine banknote should return to shape after it is scrunched up.
When the note is held to the light, a seven-pointed star should be visible on both sides, along with a concealed image of the Australian Coat of Arms to the right of the portrait.
The old notes also have a clear window in one of the bottom corners which have a white image printed on it that can’t be rubbed off.
Residents are encouraged to handle counterfeits as little as possible to preserve evidence and notify police as soon as possible.
For more information on identifying counterfeits, visit tinyurl.com/yc2yedu2
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