Cashless shift leaves staff less confident spotting fakes

CONCERN is growing among Northern Rivers businesses about counterfeit $50 and $100 notes being circulated across the region.

Several businesses on Ballina’s River Street told the Times they remain uneasy after the recent police warning about fake notes.

Counterfeit cash is typically used to buy items at service stations, hotels and supermarkets.

One business owner said they might not step forward if they accepted a fake note, fearing they would not be reimbursed. Others said they wouldn’t know how to identify one without clearer information.

“Most people pay by card now, so our staff hardly ever handle cash,” one Ballina business owner said. “When a note does come through, they’re just not as familiar with what to look for.”

Elsewhere, Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce posted an alert after some of its members were caught out, while the Coffs-Clarence Police District issued warnings too.

There has also been a surge of counterfeit notes across Canberra and South Australia, with more than 200 confirmed cases between August and September.

The Reserve Bank of Australia says it’s up to the public to report any suspect banknotes to police.

“You are well within your rights to refuse to accept a banknote if you have concerns about it,” the RBA says.

“Handle the suspect banknote as little as possible and store it in an envelope and note any relevant information, such as how it came into your possession.”

Tips to spot fake notes include checking that the polymer returns to shape after being scrunched, feeling for raised printing, and holding the note to the light to see the Australian Coat of Arms.

For new polymer notes, there should be a moving bird or rolling colour effect visible when tilted.

Anyone who receives a counterfeit note can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

The RBA guide can be viewed at banknotes.rba.gov.au/counterfeit-detection/counterfeit-detection-guide/.