The Australian dollar became the first currency to use polymer banknotes for a complete circulating series.
Australia began issuing polymer banknotes in 1988 with a commemorative $10 note marking the bicentenary of European settlement. The material was developed with Australia’s scientific research organizations and offered greater durability and security than traditional paper.
The final paper Australian note was replaced when the $5 note moved to polymer in 1992, completing the first full polymer series. Australia’s notes contain transparent windows and other security features. Canada and several other countries later adopted polymer notes, but Australia is credited with pioneering a complete circulating banknote series rather than issuing only one experimental denomination.