NT Police are warning Alice Springs business owners to watch out for people trying to pass off fake $100 notes that have Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin and Alf from Home and Away on them, after the funny money was stolen overnight Monday.

Police said “a number” of unknown offenders broke into a premises on Wilkinson Street and stole an unknown quantity of fake bills that is used for films and television shows.

Some of the “subtle differences” that police said distinguish the notes from the actual legal tender include a $100 bill that has Sir John Monash and Dame Nellie Melba replaced with Steve Irwin and Alf from Neighbours, as well as the Australian Masked Owl and Native wattle replaced with a mining haul truck.

The Shrine of Remembrance has also been replaced on bills with John Farnham, police said.

Police said another “subtle difference” that the money is fake is the word ‘Australia’ on the missing fake currency replaced with the abbreviated ‘Straylia’.

“At this stage investigators are unsure of how much fake money was stolen but it may include $10, $20, $50 and $100 dollar bills,” said Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Robert Kent in a statement.

“Police would suggest maybe taking a quick glance at any bills received for the next few weeks to make sure you’re getting the real thing.”

Police are also asking for anyone with information about the break-in to contact them on 131 444, quoting reference number 10154370.