The ultimate guide toQantas points cards.

Direct-earn or flexible? How Qantas points credit cards work, what to look for beyond the sign-up bonus, and which type suits your travel style.

  • 4 min read
  • Updated
  • Qantas

So, you’ve decided to join the ranks of savvy travellers who fly at the front of the plane. You’re dreaming of that flat-bed seat on a long-haul flight, a glass of champagne before takeoff, and the sweet, sweet satisfaction of knowing you paid for it with points.

Welcome. This guide will turn you into a confident points-earning pro.

1. Understand the two paths to earning Qantas Points

Before you even look at a card, you need to know there are two main ways they earn Qantas Points.

A) Direct-earn cards (the “no-fuss” path)

This is the simplest way to earn. You spend on the card, and every month the points you’ve earned are automatically swept into your Qantas Frequent Flyer account. It’s a “set and forget” strategy.

  • Pros: Super simple. No need to manage transfers or worry about different points programs.
  • Cons: You’re locked into the Qantas ecosystem. Your points can only be used with Qantas and their partners.

Example: the Qantas Money Platinum Credit Card (formerly the Qantas Premier Platinum) — see our full review.

B) Indirect-earn cards (the savvy strategist’s path)

These cards earn points in a flexible bank rewards program, like American Express Membership Rewards. You collect points with the bank first, and then you can transfer them to various airline partners, including Qantas.

  • Pros: Incredible flexibility. You can send points to Qantas, Velocity, Singapore Airlines and more, opening up way more reward seat availability. You can also take advantage of bonus transfer promotions.
  • Cons: It requires one extra step (manually transferring the points), and you need to understand the transfer rates.

Example: the American Express Explorer Card. More on this in why flexible points cards are a game-changer.

2. Know what to look for (the anatomy of a great card)

When you’re comparing cards, don’t just look at the shiny sign-up bonus. A savvy points hacker assesses the whole package.

  • The sign-up bonus: This is your big accelerator. The goal is to find a card offering a large lump sum of points for a minimum spend you can comfortably meet.
  • The annual fee: Don’t be scared off by it. The real question is: do the benefits outweigh the cost? A $395 fee with a $400 travel credit means you’re already ahead.
  • The points earn rate: This is the number of points you get per $1 spent. Look for cards that offer a solid earn rate on everyday purchases.
  • The perks: This is where you get a taste of the good life. Perks like complimentary lounge passes, travel insurance and hotel status can be incredibly valuable.

3. Choose the right card for your travel style

There’s no single “best” card, only the best card for you. Here’s how to choose based on where you are in your points journey.

For the beginner (“points curious”)

Your goal is to get your first points-funded trip booked without complexity. A direct-earn card like the Qantas Money Platinum is a simple way to build confidence — but read the review for its second-year catch.

The Qantas Money Platinum credit card, formerly the Qantas Premier Platinum Mastercard

For the enthusiast (“AvGeek”)

You want to maximise points for premium experiences. An indirect-earn card like the American Express Explorer is your best friend for finding the best reward seats.

The American Express Explorer Card

For the business traveller or owner

You’re time-poor and have significant expenses. Look at top-tier cards like the American Express Platinum Business or ANZ Frequent Flyer Black to maximise return. Our business credit cards guide compares the options.

The American Express Platinum Business Card

The two cards at a glance

  • QantasThe Qantas specialist

    Qantas Money Platinum Credit Card

    For beginners loyal to the Flying Kangaroo who want a simple path to Qantas Points.

    Sign-up bonus
    40,000 + 40,000
    Annual fee
    $349 first year
    Min spend
    $5,000 / 90 days
    Key perk
    2 × Qantas Lounge

    Figures last checked 22 September 2026

    Keep in mindThe second 40,000 is only for people who haven't earned Qantas Points on any credit card in 24 months. The fee rises to $399 in year two.

    Read the full review
  • Amex MRThe flexible all-rounder

    American Express Explorer Card

    For beginners who want flexibility and a strong everyday earn rate.

    Sign-up bonus
    75,000 MR
    Annual fee
    $395
    Min spend
    $4,000 / 3 mth
    Key perk
    $400 travel credit

    Figures last checked 22 September 2026

    Keep in mindThe bonus is for new Amex Card Members only and ends 3 November 2026. Keep a Visa or Mastercard handy for smaller merchants that don't take Amex.

    Read the top 3 guide

Ready for takeoff?

Choosing your first (or next) Qantas points-earning credit card is the most important step in your travel hacking journey. By understanding the types of cards available and matching them to your personal goals, you’re no longer just spending money — you’re investing in your future travel.

It’s time to stop dreaming about points and start using them.

Keep reading