Counterfeit $50 and $100 notes have surfaced across Dee Why and nearby Northern Beaches suburbs, with police urging residents and business owners to check their cash carefully after several local shops were handed fake money.
Growing Concern Among Local Businesses
Since August, police have confirmed at least 10 reports of counterfeit notes used at fast food outlets, bottle shops, and pubs across Dee Why, Brookvale, and Freshwater. The discovery comes as part of a wider trend seen in parts of New South Wales and Queensland in recent months.
Northern Beaches Police said the fake notes appear convincing at first glance but show small printed words such as “PROPS” or “COPY” upon closer inspection. Officers said some businesses spotted the fakes and challenged customers, while others unknowingly accepted them. Once discovered, the notes are worthless and not eligible for reimbursement.
Local reports indicate counterfeit cash was often passed at high-traffic venues such as fast food outlets and bottle shops. Many are reviewing CCTV footage to help identify those involved, and police have encouraged all retailers to report suspicious payments immediately.
Similar Cases Across NSW And Queensland
The issue extends beyond Sydney’s beaches. In Kingaroy, Queensland, local police reported fake $50 and $100 notes printed on paper rather than polymer being used in grocery stores, fuel stations, and takeaway outlets in late September and early October. Meanwhile, NSW Police in the Hunter Valley region received reports of counterfeit notes circulating through towns such as Cessnock and Kurri Kurri between May and October.
Police said the notes resemble “prop money” often sold online for film or photography. They are warning that using these notes in real transactions is a criminal offence.
How To Identify Counterfeit Notes
Police are reminding residents and staff to inspect every note before accepting it. Genuine Australian banknotes are made of a special polymer that feels firm and difficult to tear. Authentic $50 notes feature a clear window with the Southern Cross, while $100 notes show a lyrebird. Each note should display the Australian Coat of Arms when held up to light.
Other signs include raised printing on the main image, a seven-pointed star inside a circle, and sharp background patterns without distortion. Under UV light, the serial numbers on real notes become visible. Police urge anyone who finds a suspected fake to retain it safely and contact local authorities.
Community Action And Police Response
Police are reviewing CCTV footage from affected Dee Why businesses and monitoring reports of suspicious transactions. Police across both states continue to share updates through official channels as new cases emerge.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert, report any suspicious activity, and pass this information on to local shop staff and family members. Police emphasise that community awareness helps prevent counterfeit circulation.
Published 11-November-2025
