More than $2 million in fake cash seized in Queensland’s biggest bust

More than $2 million in counterfeit cash has been seized in Queensland, in the state’s largest-ever fake currency bust linked to a single importer.

Australian Border Force (ABF) officers intercepted 12 plane shipments from Asia in late June, discovering forged Australian banknotes worth $2,000,850, along with $850 in counterfeit Canadian currency.

All 12 shipments were linked to the same recipient.

The bust comes amid a surge in counterfeit cash arriving at Australia’s border.

In the 2025-26 financial year, police thwarted 700 fake currency imports valued at over $6 million.

That’s up from just 13 detections worth $115,150 the previous year.

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ABF Superintendent David Henderson warned that the quality of forged notes is becoming increasingly sophisticated, urging the public to stay vigilant.

“The quality of counterfeit banknotes is improving, which increases the risk of people unknowingly accepting them as genuine currency.

“We encourage members of the public to familiarise themselves with banknote security features,” he said.

“Early identification of counterfeit notes plays an important role in protecting businesses, consumers and the broader community.”

Genuine Australian banknotes feature raised printing, sharp details, and colour-shifting features built into the clear window that animate when tilted.

Counterfeit notes will often feel smooth or carry markings such as “not legal tender”, “for motion picture use only”, or “prop”.

The ABF said that dodgy banknotes leave consumers and businesses out of pocket, with most only spotted after a transaction has taken place.

Anyone who thinks they have received counterfeit money is advised to handle the notes as little as possible and report them to local police.

Knowingly importing, possessing, or spending counterfeit currency in Australia carries a maximum penalty of 12 years’ imprisonment.

Forged banknotes seized by the ABF are referred to the Australian Federal Police, then taken to the Reserve Bank of Australia for forensic examination and destruction.