1. Mandatory ID Requirements (2026)

Even if you are just grabbing some “pocket money” for a holiday, expect to show one of the following original physical documents (digital copies or photos are usually rejected):

• International Passport: The preferred ID for all international students and tourists.
• Australian Driver Licence: Accepted at all Melbourne outlets.
• Proof of Age Card: Victorian or interstate government-issued photo cards.
• Key Restriction: Student IDs, work badges, and expired licenses are not accepted as primary identification for currency exchange in 2026.

2. The $10,000 AUD Reporting Threshold

If you exchange the equivalent of $10,000 AUD or more in a single transaction (or multiple linked transactions), the business is legally required to file a Threshold Transaction Report (TTR) with AUSTRAC.

• What they record: Your full name, address, date of birth, occupation, and the source of the funds.
• The “Structuring” Warning: In 2026, attempting to break a large sum into smaller amounts (e.g., $5,000 today and $5,000 tomorrow) to avoid the ID check is a crime known as “structuring.” System-wide monitoring will flag this, often leading to a Suspicious Matter Report (SMR).

3. 2026 Exchange Triage Table

4. 2026 “Pro-Tips” for Melbourne Changers

• Physical ID Only: As of late March 2026, many Melbourne CBD changers (like those on Elizabeth St and Collins St) have updated their scanners. They often cannot scan a “Digital ID” from a phone app yet; always carry your physical plastic/paper ID.
• Source of Wealth: For very large amounts (e.g., paying a tuition deposit in cash), the money changer may ask for a bank statement or a withdrawal receipt to prove where the cash came from.
• Privacy: Under the Privacy Act 1988, these businesses must keep your ID data secure. However, if you are uncomfortable with them scanning your passport, you may prefer to use a Zero-Forex Card and withdraw from an ATM instead.