Imagine this: you’re sipping coffee at a Qantas lounge, waiting for a flight you booked using points earned from your everyday spending. Sounds dreamy, right? For frequent flyers or even casual travelers in Australia, a Qantas points-earning credit card can turn your grocery runs, fuel stops, and online shopping into free flights, upgrades, or even luxury goods from the Qantas Marketplace. But with so many options, how do you pick the best credit card for Qantas points?
In this guide, we’ll break down the top Qantas points credit cards for 2025, focusing on earn rates, sign-up bonuses, fees, and perks. Whether you’re a high spender chasing premium benefits or an average earner looking for value, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in with a clear, humanized, and research-backed look at your options, so you can choose the card that fits your lifestyle like a glove.
Why Choose a Qantas Points Credit Card?
Qantas Frequent Flyer is Australia’s largest loyalty program, boasting over 16 million members in 2024, according to Statista. It’s no surprise why: Qantas points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, Qantas Marketplace products, or even wine from Qantas Wine. A good credit card amplifies your earning potential, turning everyday purchases into rewards.
For example, Sarah, a Sydney-based marketing professional, uses her Qantas card for everything—groceries, bills, even her morning coffee. Last year, she racked up enough points for a return economy flight to Bali, all without stepping foot on a plane to earn them. That’s the power of a well-chosen Qantas points credit card. But not all cards are equal. Let’s explore the key factors to consider before diving into the best options.
What to Look for in a Qantas Points Credit Card
Choosing the right card isn’t just about chasing the biggest sign-up bonus. Here’s what matters:
- Earn Rate: How many points do you earn per dollar spent? Higher rates mean faster rewards.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Many cards offer bonus points (sometimes 100,000+) for meeting a minimum spend in the first few months.
- Annual Fee: Weigh the cost against the benefits. Some cards offset fees with travel credits or lounge passes.
- Perks: Look for extras like travel insurance, lounge access, or discounts on Qantas flights.
- Caps and Exclusions: Some cards cap points or exclude certain purchases (like BPAY or government payments) from earning points.
- Interest Rates: If you carry a balance, high rates can outweigh rewards.
- Eligibility: Some premium cards require high incomes or credit limits.
By balancing these factors with your spending habits and travel goals, you’ll find a card that maximizes value without breaking the bank.
Top Qantas Points Credit Cards for 2025
Below, we’ve rounded up the best Qantas points credit cards in Australia for 2025, based on earn rates, bonuses, and overall value. Each card is suited to different types of spenders, from frequent travelers to everyday shoppers.
Qantas American Express Ultimate Card
Best for Frequent Travelers and High Earn Rates
The Qantas American Express Ultimate Card is a points-earning powerhouse. With an earn rate of up to 1.25 Qantas points per $1 spent on everyday purchases and 2.25 points per $1 on Qantas products, it’s ideal for those who want to rack up points fast.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 100,000 bonus points when you spend $5,000 within the first 3 months. That’s enough for a one-way business class flight from Sydney to Singapore (41,500 points plus taxes).
- Annual Fee: $450, but it comes with a $450 Qantas travel credit, effectively offsetting the cost.
- Perks: Two complimentary Qantas Club lounge passes, travel insurance, and a 23.99% interest rate.
- Who It’s For: Frequent travelers who use American Express widely and can meet the minimum spend for the bonus.
Real-Life Example: James, a Melbourne-based consultant, used this card for his business expenses. In six months, he earned enough points for a return economy flight to Tokyo, plus lounge access that made his trip extra comfortable.
Drawback: The 3% foreign transaction fee can sting if you shop overseas often. Consider pairing it with a card like the Wise Debit Card for international purchases.
Qantas Premier Titanium Credit Card
Best for High Spenders Seeking Premium Perks
If you’re a high earner with a taste for luxury, the Qantas Premier Titanium Card is a top contender. It’s pricey but packed with elite benefits.
- Sign-Up Bonus: A whopping 150,000 bonus points if you spend $5,000 in the first 3 months.
- Earn Rate: 1.25 points per $1 spent, with 2 points per $1 on Qantas purchases and an additional 10% bonus points on international spend.
- Annual Fee: $1,200, with a $200,000 annual income requirement.
- Perks: Two first-class lounge passes, travel insurance, and a concierge service.
- Who It’s For: High-income travelers who spend big and want premium travel perks.
Expert Insight: According to Point Hacks, this card’s high earn rate and uncapped points make it ideal for big spenders who can justify the steep fee.
Drawback: The high annual fee and income requirement make it inaccessible for most.
ANZ Frequent Flyer Black
Best Big Four Bank Option
For those who prefer banking with a major institution, the ANZ Frequent Flyer Black offers a solid balance of rewards and accessibility.
- Sign-Up Bonus: 90,000 bonus points plus $200 cashback when you spend $5,000 in 3 months, and 40,000 more points if you keep the card for 12 months.
- Earn Rate: 1 point per $1 up to $7,500 per month, then 0.5 points per $1. Bonus 1 point per $1 on Qantas purchases.
- Annual Fee: $425, with complimentary Qantas Frequent Flyer membership ($99.50 value).
- Perks: Two Qantas Club lounge passes, travel insurance, and access to Visa Entertainment offers.
- Who It’s For: Middle-class professionals who want a reliable card with strong rewards.
Real-Life Example: Emma, a Perth-based teacher, used this card for her household expenses. The sign-up bonus covered a return economy flight to Auckland, and the lounge passes made her trip more relaxing.
Drawback: Points are capped at $7,500 monthly spend, which may limit high spenders.
CommBank Ultimate Awards Credit Card (Qantas Points Option)
Best for No International Transaction Fees
The CommBank Ultimate Awards Card is a standout for travelers who want to avoid foreign transaction fees while earning Qantas points.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Up to 70,000 bonus points (17,500 per month for 4 months) if you spend $3,000 monthly.
- Earn Rate: 1.2 points per $1 up to $10,000 per statement period, then 0.2 points per $1.
- Annual Fee: $35 monthly, waived if you spend $4,000 per statement period.
- Perks: No international transaction fees, two lounge passes via Mastercard Travel Pass, and travel insurance.
- Who It’s For: Frequent travelers who shop overseas and want flexibility with fees.
Expert Insight: Sean Callery from Money.com.au notes that this card’s no-fee international spending makes it a great companion for globetrotters.
Drawback: The monthly fee can add up if you don’t meet the spend threshold.
HSBC Platinum Qantas Credit Card
Best for Low Annual Fee
For those seeking value without a hefty price tag, the HSBC Platinum Qantas Credit Card is a strong contender.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Not always available, but current offers include 1.5 points per $1 in the first year up to $120,000 spent.
- Earn Rate: 1.5 points per $1 in year one, then 1 point per $1 up to $120,000 annually.
- Annual Fee: $0 in the first year, then $399.
- Perks: Complimentary travel insurance and no additional cardholder fees.
- Who It’s For: Average spenders looking for a low-cost entry into Qantas points.
Drawback: Limited sign-up bonuses compared to premium cards.
Best Qantas Points Credit Cards for 2025
| Card Name | Sign-Up Bonus | Earn Rate | Annual Fee | Key Perks | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qantas AmEx Ultimate | 100,000 points ($5,000 in 3 months) | 1.25–2.25 points/$1 | $450 | $450 travel credit, 2 lounge passes | Frequent travelers |
| Qantas Premier Titanium | 150,000 points ($5,000 in 3 months) | 1.25–2 points/$1 | $1,200 | 2 first-class lounge passes, concierge | High spenders |
| ANZ Frequent Flyer Black | 90,000 + $200 ($5,000 in 3 months) | 1–0.5 points/$1 | $425 | 2 lounge passes, $200 cashback | Big Four bank users |
| CommBank Ultimate Awards | 70,000 points ($3,000/month) | 1.2–0.2 points/$1 | $35/month* | No international fees, 2 lounge passes | Overseas spenders |
| HSBC Platinum Qantas | Varies (1.5 points/$1 first year) | 1.5–1 points/$1 | $0 first year | Travel insurance, no cardholder fees | Budget-conscious |
*Waived if you spend $4,000/month.
How to Maximize Your Qantas Points
Earning points is only half the game—using them wisely is key. Here are tips to get the most value:
- Focus on Classic Flight Rewards: These offer better value than Points Plus Pay. For example, a one-way economy flight from Sydney to Los Angeles costs 41,900 points plus $176 in taxes.
- Redeem for Business Class: Points stretch further for premium cabins. A business class flight from Melbourne to Queenstown costs 41,500 points.
- Use Partner Airlines: Qantas points can be redeemed with Oneworld partners like Emirates or American Airlines for more flight options.
- Avoid Expiry: Points stay valid as long as you earn or redeem once every 18 months.
- Leverage Sign-Up Bonuses: Meet minimum spend requirements strategically by timing big purchases like insurance or furniture.
Pro Tip: Daniel Sciberras from Point Hacks suggests focusing on cards with uncapped points if you’re a high spender to avoid hitting earn limits.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Chasing Bonuses Blindly: A huge sign-up bonus isn’t worth it if the annual fee outweighs your benefits.
- Ignoring Caps: Cards like the ANZ Frequent Flyer Black cap points at $7,500 monthly spend, which can limit rewards for big spenders.
- High Interest Rates: Cards like the AmEx Ultimate (23.99%) can be costly if you don’t pay off your balance monthly.
- Overlooking Fees: Foreign transaction fees (e.g., 3% on AmEx Ultimate) can add up for overseas spending.
Is a Qantas Points Credit Card Right for You?
If you’re a frequent Qantas flyer or love the idea of turning everyday spending into travel rewards, a Qantas points credit card is a no-brainer. For example, a family of four could use 110,400 points for return economy flights from Sydney to London, plus taxes. But if you rarely travel or prefer flexibility, a multi-airline or general rewards card might suit you better.
Final Thoughts: Your Ticket to Rewards
Choosing the best credit card for Qantas points depends on your lifestyle. The Qantas American Express Ultimate Card is a top pick for its high earn rate and travel credit, while the Qantas Premier Titanium suits high rollers. For value, the HSBC Platinum Qantas Card offers a low-cost entry, and the CommBank Ultimate Awards shines for international travelers.
Before applying, assess your spending habits, travel goals, and ability to pay off the balance to avoid interest. Check out Qantas’ official credit card comparison tool for the latest offers, and always read the terms and conditions. Ready to start earning points? Your next adventure could be just a swipe away.
