Oceania is a region that comprises thousands of islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is characterised by stunning landscapes and diverse cultures and includes countries that have their own unique currencies. The number of different currencies in Oceania is relatively small compared to other regions. The best-known currency is the Australian dollar. This FXOpen article looks at the major currencies in Oceania and their value in relation to the USD and delves into the significance of the Australian dollar.

*The rates are effective on October 24, 2023.

Currencies of Oceania

Oceania, home to countries like Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea, has several distinct currencies. The best-known among them is the Australian dollar (AUD). In New Zealand, the New Zealand dollar (NZD) is used, and in Fiji, the Fijian dollar (FJD). In Papua New Guinea, the official currency is the kina (PGK). Other territories and island nations in Oceania often use foreign currencies, such as the US dollar, because of their dependence on tourism.

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Exchange rate: 1 AUD = 0.629 USD

The AUD is the legal tender of Australia and its external territories, and the official currency of three independent sovereign Pacific Island states: Kiribati, Nauru, and Tuvalu. The Australian currency today is the most traded currency in Oceania. The Aussie, which is the nickname of the AUD, is included in the top 10 most traded currencies in the world.

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Exchange rate: 1 NZD = 0.581 USD

The New Zealand dollar, recognised as the official currency of New Zealand, as well as the territories of Niue, the Cook Islands, Tokelau, and the Pitcairn Islands, is an important financial unit in the Oceania region. It holds the distinction of being the second most actively traded currency in Oceania, following closely behind the AUD.

Fijian Dollar (FJD)

Exchange rate: 1 FJD = 0.436 USD

The Fijian dollar serves as the official currency of the beautiful island nation of Fiji. The Fijian dollar supports various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing, which are critical contributors to the country’s GDP. The strength and stability of the FJD are closely tied to the economic well-being of Fiji, which has seen steady growth over the years.

Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK)

Exchange rate: 1 PGK = 0.269 USD

The currency of Papua New Guinea is the PGK. The kina was introduced in conjunction with the country’s independence from Australian colonial rule. The country’s economy relies on agriculture, mining, and natural resources. However, Papua New Guinea faces economic issues such as income inequality, rural development, and access to education and healthcare. The value of the kina can be impacted by these challenges.

The Australian Dollar: A Closer Look

The AUD is not only the highest-valued currency in Oceania but also one of the most traded currencies globally. It is a reserve currency and is widely used in international trade. The Aussie is popular among traders due to the relative lack of central bank intervention and the overall stability of the Australian economy and government.

Factors Influencing the AUD Exchange Rate

Australia’s strong and stable economy, prudent tax policy, and abundant natural resources contribute to the strength of the Australian dollar. The country’s reputation as a tourist destination and its thriving education sector also play a role in sustaining the value of the Aussie.

The Australian dollar has been known to be volatile, and its rate can fluctuate due to various factors such as global economic conditions and political events. Since Australia is credited as a major commodity exporter, the Australian dollar currency rate often depends on global demand for resources such as coal, iron ore, and natural gas.

Understanding Australian currency exchange rates today is crucial for anyone looking to travel within Oceania or trade in the forex market. If you’re interested in forex and want to stay on top of price changes, consider the TickTrader trading platform. You will be able to find and analyse asset prices in real time on user-friendly charts with over 1,200 technical analysis tools.

Banknotes and Coins

While discussing the Australian dollar, it is interesting to take a look at a list of Australian currency denominations:

• Coins: 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, one dollar, and two dollars.
• Banknotes: $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.

The biggest Australian currency note is 100 dollars. Australia is known for its innovative use of polymer banknotes, which are more durable and resistant to wear and tear than traditional paper bills.

Final Thoughts

The Australian dollar, with its prominence and stability, takes the lead as the highest-valued currency in Oceania. Despite sharing the stage with several other currencies in the region, the global acceptance of the Aussie and resilience in the face of economic turmoil has strengthened its position.

The AUD can be attractive to forex traders due to its robust interest rate differential, commodity currency status, high interest rates, and position as a prime trading partner. If interested, you can open an FXOpen account to trade Aussie markets today.

This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.