When producing television, cinema, or commercial theatre in Australia, capturing realistic cash exchanges is crucial for cinematic immersion. However, Australia strictly regulates the reproduction of Australian currency under the Commonwealth Crimes (Currency) Act 1981 and guidelines published by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).
Under Section 22 of the Crimes (Currency) Act, it is an offence to make or circulate counterfeit currency or unauthorized reproductions of currency that could deceive reasonable persons. To ensure full legal compliance, professional prop houses must observe strict criteria:
1. Distinctive Markings: Notes must feature prominent, indelible notices such as 'SPECIMEN', 'REPRODUCTION', or 'FOR MOTION PICTURE USE ONLY'. 2. Size Adjustments: Reproductions must deviate from genuine currency dimensions (less than 75% or greater than 150% in scale for standard one-sided representations, or strictly marked with substantial textural and structural modifications for filming). 3. Non-Polymer Texture: Genuine Australian banknotes are printed on specialized biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP). PROPPS PTY LTD uses premium non-reflective archival paper instead of polymer, preventing any tactile confusion with genuine legal tender.
By procuring certified props from PROPPS PTY LTD, Australian production companies protect their crew and production from legal liability while maintaining impeccable visual standards on camera.
