Fijian Dollar (FJD): Facts, Denominations, and AUD to FJD Exchange Tips

Fiji’s national currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD), a widely traded currency in the Oceania region and the unit you will use for everyday spending across the country. Understanding the factors that move the FJD—such as tourism flows, inflation, and central bank policy—will help you make more informed exchange decisions for your travel budget.

Key Takeaways

• Official Currency: The Fijian Dollar (FJD) has been Fiji’s official tender since its decimalization in 1969.
• Denominations: FJD is issued in practical banknote and coin denominations, featuring cultural and national symbols.
• Exchange Strategy: AUD to FJD rates fluctuate daily; compare providers based on the final "all-in" result (fees + margin).
• Payment Efficiency: While some tourist venues accept AUD, paying in FJD provides clearer pricing and better value for everyday spending.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Choosing to pay in FJD rather than AUD during card transactions typically reduces hidden mark-ups.
• Monetary Stability: The Reserve Bank of Fiji manages the FJD to ensure regional economic stability and currency confidence.
• Spending Mix: For the best experience, use FJD cash for local vendors and markets, while reserving cards for hotels and larger merchants. 

  1. Fijian Dollar Origin and History

Fiji introduced the Fijian Dollar (FJD) in 1969 as part of currency decimalization, replacing the Fiji pound and moving away from the pounds–shillings–pence system. This change modernized Fiji’s monetary system and established FJD as the standard currency used today for wages, pricing, and retail payments.

  2. Current Denominations

The Fijian Dollar is issued in a practical mix of coins and banknotes for everyday spending. Coins are typically used for small purchases and change, while banknotes support routine transactions such as dining, tours, and transport. Having a mix of smaller denominations is useful for markets, taxis, and tips where card payments may not be available.

  3. Unique Design and Symbols

Fijian banknotes reflect national identity through local symbols, natural heritage, and cultural motifs. For visitors, these design elements are also a practical cue: learn to recognize the main note values so you can handle cash transactions confidently, especially in busy tourist areas.

If you are collecting or exchanging older notes, always verify that the banknotes are current legal tender and in acceptable condition for merchants. 

  4. Exchange Rate Tips (AUD to FJD)

If you are travelling from Australia, check the live exchange rate for AUD to FJD in advance and compare providers by the total amount you will receive (rate margin + fees). Airport exchange points often include wider spreads; planning ahead and using reputable providers can reduce costs and improve certainty.

To track and plan, you can start on the AUD to FJD page and confirm the latest pricing before you exchange or place an order. 

  5. Is AUD Accepted in Fiji?

In some tourist-focused businesses, AUD may be accepted, but it is not guaranteed, and the rate offered in-store can be unfavorable compared to exchanging properly. For clearer pricing and better control of your budget, it is generally best to pay in FJD, especially for everyday purchases such as food, transport, and activities.

Practical approach: arrive with a small amount of FJD for immediate expenses, then top up via reputable exchange channels once you are settled. 

  6. Currency Conversion in Fiji

Some merchants may offer dynamic currency conversion (DCC), allowing you to pay in AUD instead of FJD at checkout. This convenience often comes with a mark-up embedded in the exchange rate. In most cases, choosing to pay in FJD (local currency) results in a better overall cost on card transactions.

Quick rule: if the terminal asks “Pay in AUD or FJD?”, select FJD unless you have a specific reason not to. 

  7. Historic Coins and Banknotes

Fiji's currency history includes unique pre-decimal coinage that remains a point of interest for numismatists. However, for current financial standards, only banknotes and coins issued by the Reserve Bank of Fiji are recognized as legal tender for trade and commerce.

  8. Currency Management and the Reserve Bank of Fiji

The Reserve Bank of Fiji oversees monetary policy and supports financial stability, including the management of currency issuance and reserves. For consumers, the main implication is confidence in the official currency system and the continued circulation of FJD as the standard for pricing and payments across the country.

Macro conditions (inflation expectations, tourism flows, and global risk sentiment) can still influence the AUD to FJD rate, so it is worth checking pricing close to your exchange date. 

 9. Tips for Travelers Using Cash and Cards

A practical approach is to carry some FJD cash for small purchases (markets, local transport, tips) while using cards for hotels and larger merchants. This reduces friction while keeping your spending trackable. If you use a travel card, compare fees, FX mark-ups, and ATM withdrawal charges to understand the total cost.

To avoid surprises, ask your bank about international transaction fees and consider setting card alerts so you can monitor spending in real time. 

  10. Exchange Rate Statistics

Exchange rates fluctuate, so budgeting improves when you check the current AUD to FJD rate near the time you exchange and validate it against reputable benchmarks. Use rate trackers to understand the market level, then compare provider quotes based on the final “you receive” amount in FJD after fees.

If you want a quick benchmark before converting, review the latest pricing on the exchange rates page and confirm your amount on the AUD to FJD flow.