When you collect points with a single airline, you’re locked into their range of partners and pricing. If there aren’t flights available on the dates you want, you’re out of luck. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

One of the most valuable aspects of holding certain American Express Cards in Australia is the Membership Rewards program, designed to reward your spending with flexible and valuable points.

Members gain access to over 10 frequent flyer partner programs in Australia and overseas*. Your hard-earned points remain safe and flexible until you’re ready to spend them with your chosen airline or hotel partner.

There’s plenty to do outside of travel as well. Whether you’re looking to save on everyday purchases or indulge in exclusive experiences, Membership Rewards makes it possible.

The American Express® Platinum Card

Sign-up Bonus: 200,000 bonus Membership Rewards points¹
 
Rewards Earn Rate: Earn 2.25 Membership Rewards points per $1 on all eligible purchases, except for spend with government bodies, for which you will earn 1 point per $1 spent
 
Annual Fee: $1,450 p.a.
 
Offer expires: 2 December 2025

 

Enjoy 200,000 bonus Membership Rewards Points¹ when you spend $5,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months. (Offer available to new American Express Card Members only. Offer ends 9 September 2025. T&Cs apply.) Unlock premium perks including unlimited airport lounge access, international travel insurance, Amex Hotels and Resorts benefits, up to $400 in Global Dining Credit2, and a $450 Travel Credit3 each year. Earn up to 2.25 Membership Rewards Points per $1 on eligible spend. The annual fee is $1,450.

This guide is brought to you in partnership with American Express.

Phenomenal flexibility in redeeming points

The true beauty of the Membership Rewards program lies in its versatility when redeeming points. You’re not locked into a single way to use your points. American Express offers a vast array of redemption options to suit your preferences.

Love to travel? Transfer your points to leading frequent flyer programs such as Velocity or Qatar Airways Privilege Club#. At Point Hacks, transferring points to airline partners is our favourite way to gain maximum value from Membership Rewards points.

With American Express Membership Rewards, you have a wide range of transfer partners to choose from.

The best thing about transferring Membership Rewards points is the ability to choose how much to transfer and when. Can’t find reward seats with one airline but lined up a perfect itinerary on another? Easy – just transfer your points to the other program and be on your way.

American Express Essential® Rewards Credit Card

Sign-up Bonus: 40,000 bonus Membership Rewards points⁵
 
Rewards Earn Rate:5 points per $1 spent on eligible eats & drinks purchases in Australia, 3 points per $1 spent on selected streaming subscriptions in Australia, 2 points per $1 spent at selected major retailers in Australia and 1 point per $1 spent on everything else including government spend⁶
 
Annual Fee: $9 per month
 
Offer expires: 27 January 2026
 
Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards Bonus Points5 when you spend $3,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of the approval date. (Offer ends 27 January 2026. T&Cs apply. New Amex Card Members only.) The Card earns up to 5 points per $1 spent for the first 10,000 points per month and has a range of insurance options for consumers (Mobile, Card Purchase, Card Refund, Buyer’s Advantage)7, all for $9 per month. Use Membership Rewards Points for gift cards, to cover charges, or transfer to 10+ airline partners for maximum value. Monthly fee is $9.

You can also use points to book flights, accommodation, or car rentals through Amex Travel. Certain American Express Cards unlock access to special rates and offers through The Hotel Collection^. Platinum Cards also have access to Fine Hotels + Resorts.

Prefer to shop? Redeem your points at popular eligible retail partners or use them for gift cards§ from leading retailers and statement credits through the Cover Charges with Points and Points for Credit features. With SafeKey (Amex’s online fraud prevention tool), you can also use points at the checkout of many websites, including Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Myer and Chemist Warehouse – in addition to providing a safer online shopping experience.

The possibilities are virtually limitless.

Use Membership Rewards points on Singapore Airlines via KrisFlyer, Velocity or other partners. Photo: Brandon Loo

Earn points on every dollar spent

One of the greatest advantages of the American Express Membership Rewards program is its ability to earn points on virtually every purchase. Whether dining out, booking flights, or shopping for essentials, your day-to-day spending quickly becomes valuable rewards.

American Express offers a wide range of Cards that cater to different lifestyles, and many of them come with accelerated earning rates for specific categories. For example, you may earn extra points when shopping at supermarkets with the Platinum Edge Card. Additional cardholders can help accumulate points even faster by combining their spending into one streamlined balance.

The actual number of points earned per dollar depends on the card that you have. Some Cards also have varying points earning categories too.

American Express Explorer® Credit Card

Sign-up Bonus: 100,000 Membership Rewards Bonus Points⁸
 
Rewards Earn Rate: Earn 2 Membership Rewards points per $1 on all purchases except government bodies where you will earn 1 point per $1 spent⁶.
 
Annual Fee: $395 p.a.
 
Offer expires: 2 December 2025
 
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards Bonus Points8 when you apply by 2 December 2025 and spend $4,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of the approval date. T&Cs apply. New Amex Card Members only. Enjoy $400 annual Travel Credit9, free access to The Centurion® Lounge³ at Sydney and Melbourne airports10, and Card, Smartphone and International Travel Insurance11. Earn 2 Membership Rewards points per $1 on all purchases except government bodies where you will earn 1 point per $1 spent⁶. Annual fee is $395.

How to maximise your points earning potential

To get the most out of Membership Rewards, it’s essential to use the right strategies. Start by choosing a Card that aligns with your travel goals and spending needs.

For example, the American Express Explorer® Card comes with a $400 travel credit, while the American Express Platinum® Card adds many extras, such as access to 1,400+ Airport Lounges across a vast networkΔ. But also take heed of the annual fees and other fees or charges that might be relevant.

The American Express Centurion Lounge offers an escape from the airport’s hustle and bustle. Photo: Chris Chamberlin.

If you haven’t held an American Express card in the last 18 months, you may be eligible for a sizeable sign-up offer to turbocharge your points balance, helping you reach that next holiday sooner.

Explore the wide range of Membership Rewards Cards available today and unlock the ultimate rewards experience.

Terms and Conditions: * # ^ † ‡ § Δ

* Partner Programs.
Subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Membership Rewards Gateway program available at membershiprewards.com.au. You must be a member of the airline partner program, joining fees may apply and points transferred will be subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable airline partner program.

# To redeem points to any Frequent Traveller Program you must be a member of the applicable Program. Enrolment in such Programs is solely your responsibility and fees may apply. The minimum requirement and transfer rate varies. Subject to the Membership Rewards Terms and Conditions.​

^ The Hotel Collection.
The Hotel Collection (THC) benefits are available for new bookings of two consecutive nights or more, with participating properties, made through Platinum Travel Service, Centurion Travel Service or American Express Travel Online. Bookings are valid only for eligible Card Members of the following American Express Cards: American Express® Rewards Advantage Card, American Express® Explorer Credit Card, American Express® Platinum Reserve Credit Card, American Express® Gold Card, American Express® Gold Business Card, American Express® Business Gold Plus Card, American Express® Platinum Card, American Express® Platinum Business Card and American Express® Centurion Card. Excludes Gold Credit Card Members who are not also Australian Rewards Advantage, Gold or Platinum Charge Card Members. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express® Card, in the eligible Card Member’s name, and that Card Member must be travelling on the itinerary booked to be eligible for benefits described. Noon check-in, late check-out and the room upgrade are subject to availability; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The type of US$100 credit and additional amenity (if applicable) varies by property; the US$100 credit will be applied to eligible charges up to US$100. To receive the US$100 credit, the eligible spend must be charged to your hotel room. The US$100 credit will be applied at check-out. Advance reservations are recommended for certain credits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members traveling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional THC benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the Property reserve the right to modify or revoke the THC benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your THC benefits. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in US Dollars or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for THC program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, call the number on the back of your Card.

† Fine Hotels + Resorts.
Average US$550 value based on FHR bookings in 2023 for stays of two nights. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability and use of benefits. Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) program benefits are available for new bookings made through American Express Travel with participating properties and are valid only for eligible Platinum Charge Card Members and Centurion® Members. Platinum Credit Card Members who are not also Australian Platinum Charge Card Members or Centurion® Members, are not eligible for FHR program benefits. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express® Card, in the eligible Card Member’s name, and that Card Member must be travelling on the itinerary booked. Noon check-in and room upgrade are subject to availability and are provided at check-in; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The US$100 credit will be applied to eligible charges up to the amount of the credit. To receive the US$100 credit, the eligible spend must be charged to your hotel room. The US$100 credit will be applied at check-out. Advance reservations are recommended for certain US$100 credits. The type and value of the daily breakfast (for two) varies by property; breakfast will be valued at a minimum of US$60 per room per day. To receive the breakfast credit, the breakfast bill must be charged to your hotel room. The breakfast credit will be applied at check-out. If the cost of Wi-Fi is included in a mandatory property fee, a daily credit of that amount will be applied at check-out. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members travelling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional FHR benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the property reserve the right to modify or revoke FHR benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you may have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your FHR benefits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in USD or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for FHR program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, please call the number on the back of your Card.

‡ Cover Charges with Points.
For each successful transaction with covered with points, points will be debited from your Membership Rewards account and a credit placed on your Card in line with the points chosen to be used for the Eligible Charge. A minimum of 1,000 Membership Rewards points is required to cover any eligible transaction with points. Any credit to your Card account cannot exceed the amount of the relevant Eligible Charges. A credit will appear on your statement identified as “Membership Rewards Credit”. Points will be debited immediately and the credit will take up to 3 business days to appear online. Credits processed after the Card account’s statement closing date will appear in the following statement. You are still responsible for payment of the amount due on your Card account by the due date. Any charges covered by points is not redeemable for cash via Credit balance refund. American Express will select and display each eligible charge that can be covered with points (“Eligible Charge”) and the points rate required to cover the Eligible Charge. Each Eligible Charge must: (a) appear within the Online Statement of the Summary of Accounts page; (b) be redeemed within 2 months of the charge appearing on your Card account; (c) not currently or have previously been disputed; and (d) not be a fee. Eligible Charges, including the points rate required to pay for the Eligible Charge, may be changed at any time without notice. Eligible transactions can be covered by points via your online account or American Express mobile app. Covering charges with points is available only to Basic Cardmembers enrolled in the Australian Membership Rewards program and is subject to the full Membership Rewards Terms and Conditions. Authorised agents, authorised account managers, additional Cardmembers and Authorised Additional Cardmembers are not eligible. All Linked Card accounts must be in good standing.

§ Gift Cards

Gift Card or voucher rewards are not redeemable or exchangeable for cash or credit. Normal retailer gift card or voucher conditions apply, refer to the gift card or retailer website for details.

Δ The American Express Global Lounge Collection.

The Centurion® Lounge: Platinum Card Members have unlimited complimentary access to all locations of The Centurion Lounge. Gold Card and Green Card Additional Cards on your Platinum Account are not eligible for complimentary access. Card Members may bring up to two (2) companions into The Centurion Lounge. Children under 2 years of age can access the lounge free of charge, provided an accompanying parent or guardian is able to produce a “lap infant” boarding pass or proof of age. Guest access policies may vary internationally by location and are subject to change. To access The Centurion Lounge, the Card Member must present The Centurion Lounge agent with the following upon each visit: their valid Card, a boarding pass showing a confirmed reservation for same-day travel on any carrier and a government-issued I.D. Failure to present this documentation may result in access being denied. The Centurion Lounge is a day of departure lounge. Platinum Card Members who have landed will not be able to access the lounge. Card Members with layovers or connecting flights who produce proof can access the lounge. Platinum Card Members cannot access The Centurion Lounge more than 3 hours before the scheduled departure time on their same day, confirmed boarding pass. This does not apply to Card Members with a connecting flight. Card Members will not be compensated for changes in locations, rates or policies. A Card Member must be at least 18 years of age to enter without a parent or legal guardian. For locations with a self-service bar, the Card Member must be of legal drinking age in the location’s jurisdiction to enter without a parent or legal guardian. Must be of legal drinking age to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly. American Express reserves the right to remove any person from the Lounge for inappropriate behavior or failure to adhere to rules, including, but not limited to, conduct that is disruptive, abusive or violent. Soliciting other Card Members for access into our lounge is not permissible. Access is subject to space availability. Hours may vary by location and are subject to change. Amenities vary among The Centurion Lounge locations and are subject to change. Services and amenities in the Lounge are complimentary, however you are responsible for any purchases and/or servicing charges you authorize our Member Services Professionals to perform on your behalf. Some American Express Cards are not eligible for all services provided by Member Services Desk. American Express will not be liable for any articles lost or stolen or damages suffered by the purchaser or visitor inside The Centurion Lounge. If we in our sole discretion determine that you have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with lounge access in any way or that you intend to do so, we may remove access to The Centurion Lounge from the Account. Use of The Centurion Lounge is subject to all rules and conditions set by American Express. American Express reserves the right to revise the rules at any time without notice. The Centurion Lounge – Sydney & Melbourne, Australia: Guest access policies for The Centurion Lounges in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia may vary to the Global Lounge Collection terms. For more information on the Australian Lounges access, visit americanexpress.com.au/airportlounge

Escape Lounges – The Centurion® Studio Partner: This benefit is available to the Platinum Card. Additional Gold Cards and Additional Green Cards on your Platinum Account are not eligible for complimentary access. Card Members receive complimentary access to any US location of the Escape Lounges. Card Member must present their valid Card, a boarding pass showing a confirmed reservation for same-day travel on any carrier and government-issued I.D. In some cases, Card Member must be 21 years of age to enter without a parent or guardian. Card Members may bring up to two companions as complimentary guests. Card Member must adhere to all house rules of participating lounges. Card Members and their guests will receive all of the complimentary benefits and amenities afforded to the Escape Lounge customers, as well as access to purchase non-complimentary items. Some product features may be subject to additional charges. Escape Lounge locations are subject to change.

Delta Sky Club: Effective January 1, 2024: Eligible Card Members travelling on a same-day Delta-operated flight with Basic Economy (E) fare tickets will not have access to the Delta Sky Club or to Grab and Go.
This benefit is available to the Platinum Card Members. Platinum Card Members must present their valid American Express Card, government-issued I.D., and boarding pass to the Delta Sky Club ambassador. Boarding pass must show a reservation for a same-day Delta-operated flight (Delta or Delta connection) departing from or arriving at the airport in which the Delta Sky Club is located. Name on boarding pass must match name on the Card. Eligible Platinum Card Members on departing flights can only access the Delta Sky Club within three hours of their flight’s scheduled departure time. During a connection between Delta-operated flights on the same ticket, you may use the Delta Sky Club in your connecting airport at any time during the layover. Delta reserves the right to limit access for non-revenue flyers at any Delta Sky Club. Additional Gold Cards and Additional Green Cards on your Platinum account are not eligible for complimentary access. Access to Delta Sky Club partner lounges is not permitted. Individuals must be at least 18 years of age to access Delta Sky Club, and 21 years of age to access locations with a self-service bar, unless accompanied by a responsible, supervising adult who has access to the lounge. Eligible Card Members must adhere to all Delta Sky Club House Rules while accessing participating airport clubs. Participating airport clubs and locations subject to change without notice. Eligible Platinum Card Members may bring guests into the Delta Sky Club subject to the most current Delta Sky Club access and pricing policies, and must use their valid Platinum Card as the payment method for guest access. Guests must also be flying on a same-day Delta-operated flight. Guest access and fees subject to terms and conditions of participating airport clubs.
For the most current Delta Sky Club access and pricing policy, please visit delta.com/skyclub. All Delta Sky Club rules apply to Delta Sky Club membership and use. To review the rules, please visit delta.com/skyclub.

Plaza Premium Lounges: This benefit is available to Primary and Additional Platinum Card Members. Additional Gold Cards and Additional Green Cards on your Platinum Account are not eligible for complimentary access. Card Members receive complimentary access to any global location of Plaza Premium Lounges. The Platinum Card Member may bring up to 2 guests into the lounge at no additional cost. All lounge access fees for additional guest visits will be charged directly to the Platinum Card Member’s Card, and at the prevailing retail rate, per person, per visit. Lounge access for infants under two years of age is complimentary. To access the Plaza Premium Lounges, the Platinum Card Member must present their valid Card, a boarding pass showing a confirmed reservation for same-day travel on any carrier and government-issued I.D. Failure to present this documentation may result in access being denied. The Platinum Card Member must be at least 18 years of age to enter without a parent or guardian where there is a self-service bar. In some cases, Card Member must be 21 years of age to enter without a parent or guardian. Plaza Premium Lounge reserves the right to remove any person from a lounge for inappropriate behaviour or failure to adhere to lounge rules, including, but not limited to, conduct that is disruptive, abusive or violent. Access is subject to space availability and is not guaranteed. The full Plaza Premium Lounge Facilities Terms and Conditions are available at plaza-network.com/terms. Facilities, amenities, services and hours of operation may vary among locations and are subject to change. Terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice.

Virgin Australia: Access is complimentary for Primary Platinum Card Member and one complimentary guest only. The Primary Platinum Card Member and guest must be travelling with Virgin Australia domestically on the same Virgin Australia flight. Access is to Virgin Australia-branded lounges in Australia only. Name on boarding pass must match the name on Platinum Card and boarding pass must be presented. The Platinum Card Member and guest must present their valid Card and same-day boarding pass (containing your Virgin Australia Velocity Frequent Flyer number and status) to Virgin Australia lounge agents. One guest per Primary Platinum Card Member permitted. All access is subject to space availability. This benefit is subject to change.

Priority Pass™: These Terms and Conditions govern American Express Platinum Card Members’ participation in and use of the Priority Pass™ program. Priority Pass is an independent airport lounge access program. Your Priority Pass benefit is limited to airport lounge access only. Non-lounge airport experiences in the form of credits for restaurants, cafes and bars are not available. Primary Platinum Card Members and one nominated Additional Platinum Card Member per Account are eligible for Priority Pass membership. At any visit to a Priority Pass lounge that admits guests, you may bring in 1 guest for no charge. You will be charged the prevailing retail rate for any additional guests. Some lounges do not admit guests. By enrolling in Priority Pass, you agree that you will be responsible for any additional accompanying guest visits and that your Card will be automatically charged after you have signed for the additional guest visit and it has been reported to Priority Pass by the participating lounge. Additionally, you acknowledge and agree that American Express will verify your Card account number and provide updated Card account information to Priority Pass. Priority Pass will use this information to fulfill on the Priority Pass program and may use this information for marketing related to the program. Once enrolled, Platinum Card Members whose Card account is not cancelled may access participating Priority Pass lounges by presenting your Priority Pass card and airline boarding pass. In some lounges, Priority Pass member must be 21 years of age to enter without a parent or guardian. Priority Pass members must adhere to all house rules of participating lounges. Amenities may vary among airport lounge locations. Conference rooms, where available, may be reserved for a fee. Priority Pass lounge partners and locations are subject to change. All Priority Pass members must adhere to the Priority Pass Conditions of Use, which will be sent to you with your membership package, and can be viewed at www.prioritypass.com. Upon receipt of your enrollment information, Priority Pass will send your Priority Pass card and membership package which you should receive within 4-6 weeks.

 

Terms and Conditions: ¹ ² ³ ⁴

1. 200,000 Bonus Membership Rewards Points

200,000 Bonus Membership Rewards® Points are only available to new American Express Card Members who apply online by 2 December 2025, are approved and spend $5,000 or more on eligible purchases on your new Card in the first 3 months from the Card approval date. Eligible purchases do not include Card fees and charges, for example annual fees, interest, late payment, cash advances, balance transfers, traveller’s cheques and foreign currency conversion. Please allow 8-10 weeks for the bonus points to be credited to your Account after the spend criteria has been met. Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the past 18 months are ineligible for this offer. The American Express Platinum Card has an annual Card fee of $1,450. This advertised offer is not applicable or valid in conjunction with any other advertised or promotional offer.

2. Global Dining Credit.

Maximum amount back is $200 on spend at participating local restaurants (Local Dining Credit) and AUD$200 on spend at participating abroad restaurants (Abroad Dining Credit) per redemption period: Each redemption period resets on 1 January until the offer end date of 31 December 2026.

Spend can be in one or more transactions. You cannot carry any unused offer value from one redemption period into the next.

Primary Card Member Only: The Benefit is only available to Primary American Express Australia Platinum Card Members using their Platinum Personal Charge Card. Transactions made with an Additional Card is not eligible for this Benefit.

Save this Benefit First: A one-time enrolment is required. You must first save the Benefit to your Platinum Card before making your payment to qualify for the Benefit. Benefit limited to the Card to which the offer is saved and only spend on this Card counts towards the Benefit. If you use another card to make a payment at any time, you will not be eligible for the Benefit on that card.

If you switch to a new Card product that is not eligible for this Benefit, enrolment will be removed from your Card Account. If a Card you hold is ineligible, you will not be able to see the Benefit, nor will you be able to save the Benefit to the Card. If you are no longer eligible for this Benefit due to a change in Account status, including but not limited to fraudulent flags, suspension or cancellation, it will be removed from your Account.

Eligible Transactions: Benefit only available for dine-in services made in-person at a participating restaurant, full list can be found here. Participating restaurant list subject to change without notice, please check before you dine as you won’t be eligible to receive a credit if the restaurant isn’t on the list at the time of your transaction.

Excluded Transactions: Benefit excludes purchases of gift cards and vouchers, transactions made towards deposits charged upfront by the venue, booking, cancellation, and no-show charges, takeaway or dine-at-home services. If you spend in a currency other than Australian Dollars a Currency Conversion Fee of 3% applies and this fee does not count towards the Benefit. For more information regarding charges made in foreign currencies refer to your Card Member Agreement.

Direct Payments Only: If you pay using payment processors such as QR payment or restaurant in-app purchases, you may not be eligible for the Benefit. Please request to pay at the restaurant’s designated checkout register.

Award of Credits: Credit(s) should appear on your billing statement within 30 days from the date of payment but may take longer. Credit(s) are not redeemable for cash or any other payment form. Credit may be reversed if your qualifying purchase is refunded or cancelled.

Expiry or Withdrawal of Benefit: The Benefit will expire on 31 December 2026. American Express can withdraw the Benefit at any time by giving you 60 days’ notice.

Your use of participating restaurants: Your purchase of goods and/or services from the participating brands is governed by their respective terms and conditions (including privacy policies). American Express is not responsible in any way for the goods and/or services of the participating brands. Inquiries or complaints related to the participating brands’ goods and/or services should be directed to their customer service.

Our General Offer Terms: Our General Offer Terms also apply to the Benefit and contain important additional terms.

3. Travel Credit.

If your Card has a Travel Credit benefit, the Primary Card Member is eligible for an annual Travel Credit, subject to the full Travel Credit Terms and Conditions at amex.com.au/platinumtravelcreditterms. The Travel Credit can be redeemed through American Express Travel Online on a single eligible travel booking by selecting the Travel Credit when you checkout. To redeem the Travel Credit, the full value of the Travel Credit (or more) must be charged to the eligible Primary Card. Eligible travel includes flights, hotels and car hire when you prepay in advance. The Travel Credit can be used for 365 days from the benefit anniversary date and cannot be used past the expiration date. To check the expiration date of your Travel Credit if you have not already redeemed it, please visit americanexpress.com.au/travel; log in and click ‘Travel Credit’. If your booking is cancelled, and your Travel Credit has already been used and associated statement credit applied to your account, you will forfeit your annual Travel Credit benefit and American Express may reverse the statement credits issued. You need to be able to spend on the Card to access the Travel Credit benefit and it should be credited to your Card Account within 3 business days but may take up to 30 days. Your account must be in good standing and you must have paid the annual fee and minimum payment by the due date. If you cancel your Card, change your rewards program or Card type, you will no longer be eligible for the Travel Credit.​

 

4. Partner Programs.

Subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Membership Rewards program available here. To transfer Membership Rewards points into an airline rewards or frequent guest partner program you must be a member of the partner program. Membership of the partner program is the Card Member’s responsibility and is subject to the Terms and Conditions of the applicable program. A joining fee may apply.

 

Terms and Conditions: ⁵ ⁶ ⁷

5. 60,000 Bonus Membership Rewards Points

60,000 Bonus Membership Rewards® Points are only available to new American Express Card Members who apply online by 1 July 2025, are approved and spend $3,000 or more on eligible purchases on your new Card in the first 3 months from the Card approval date. Eligible purchases do not include Card fees and charges, for example annual fees, interest, late payment, cash advances, balance transfers, traveller’s cheques and foreign currency conversion. Please allow 8-10 weeks for the bonus points to be credited to your Account after the spend criteria has been met. If you previously held a David Jones American Express Card and have not held any other American Express Card(s) in the past 18 months, you will be eligible for the offer. All other Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the past 18 months are ineligible for this offer. This advertised offer is not applicable or valid in conjunction with any other advertised or promotional offer. 

6. Membership Rewards® Program for The American Express Essential Rewards Card.

Subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Membership Rewards® program available at americanexpress.com/en-au/rewards/membership-rewards/terms.

Earn 5 points per $1 spent at restaurants, fast food outlets, cafes, bars and selected food delivery services in Australia (“Eats and Drinks”). See the list of selected food delivery services here. Earning points at this rate is dependent on how the merchant categorises their business and provide us this information (directly or through their financial institution). Locations such as a bar in an entertainment venue or a restaurant in a hotel may not be eligible for accelerated points earn. Spend through an aggregator or intermediary platform for these transactions may not be eligible for accelerated points earn. The Eats and Drinks category does not include supermarket, grocery store or catering spend.

Earn 3 points per $1 spent on eligible streaming subscriptions at selected providers in Australia. The current list of streaming services is available here. Purchases must be made directly with the merchant on our list. Spend will not be eligible for accelerated earn if the product is bundled with another product or service or billed by a third party such as a digital platform or a TV, telecommunications or internet provider. Spend through an aggregator or intermediary platform for these transactions may not be eligible for accelerated points earn.

Earn 2 points per $1 spent at selected major retailers in Australia. The following merchants have been classified as Selected Major Retailers: Amazon, Kmart, Bunnings Warehouse, Uniqlo, Myer, The Iconic, JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman. Purchases with these Selected Major Retailers are only eligible for additional points if the transactions are made online or in-store in Australia. Spend through an aggregator or intermediary platform for these transactions may not be eligible for accelerated points earn. The current list of selected retailers and corresponding terms and conditions are available here. The list is subject to change.

Eligible spend outside the accelerated earn rate categories will earn 1 Membership Rewards point per $1 spent.

American Express reserves the right to change this list of Eats and Drinks providers, selected food delivery services, selected streaming services and selected major retailers that earn points at an accelerated rate.

7. American Express Essential Rewards Card Insurance

The insurance on American Express Cards is subject to terms, conditions and exclusions (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits). You must use your American Express Essential Rewards Credit Card to pay for eligible items for those items to be covered under the retail insurance benefits. It is important you read the American Express Essential Rewards Credit Card Insurance Terms and Conditions and consider whether the insurance is right for you. We do not provide advice about the insurance or whether it is appropriate for your objectives, financial situation or needs. This insurance is underwritten by Chubb Insurance Australia Limited (ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL No. 239687) under a group policy of insurance held by American Express Australia Limited (ABN 92 108 952 085, AFSL No. 291313). Access to this insurance is provided solely by reason of the statutory operation of section 48 of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth). Card Members are not a party to the group policy, do not have an agreement with Chubb and cannot vary or cancel the cover. American Express is not the insurer, does not guarantee or hold the rights under the group policy on trust for Card Members and does not act on behalf of Chubb or as its agent. American Express is not an Authorised Representative (under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)) of Chubb.

Terms and Conditions: ⁸ ⁹ ¹⁰ ¹¹

8. 100,000 Bonus Membership Rewards Points

100,000 Bonus Membership Rewards® Points are only available to new American Express Card Members who apply online by 2 December 2025, are approved and spend $4,000 or more on eligible purchases on your new Card in the first 3 months from the Card approval date. Eligible purchases do not include Card fees and charges, for example annual fees, interest, late payment, cash advances, balance transfers, traveller’s cheques and foreign currency conversion. Please allow 8-10 weeks for the bonus points to be credited to your Account after the spend criteria has been met. Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the past 18 months are ineligible for this offer. The American Express Explorer® Credit Card has an annual Card fee of $395. This advertised offer is not applicable or valid in conjunction with any other advertised or promotional offer.

9. Travel Credit.
If your Card has a Travel Credit benefit, the Primary Card Member is eligible for an annual Travel Credit, subject to the full Travel Credit Terms and Conditions at amex.com.au/explorer-travelcreditterms. The Travel Credit can be redeemed through American Express Travel Online on a single eligible travel booking by selecting the Travel Credit when you checkout. To redeem the Travel Credit, the full value of the Travel Credit (or more) must be charged to the eligible Primary Card. Eligible travel includes flights, hotels and car hire when you prepay in advance. The Travel Credit can be used for 365 days from the benefit anniversary date and cannot be used past the expiration date. To check the expiration date of your Travel Credit if you have not already redeemed it, please visit americanexpress.com.au/travel; log in and click ‘Travel Credit’. If your booking is cancelled, and your Travel Credit has already been used and associated statement credit applied to your account, you will forfeit your annual Travel Credit benefit and American Express may reverse the statement credits issued. You need to be able to spend on the Card to access the Travel Credit benefit and it should be credited to your Card Account within 3 business days but may take up to 30 days. Your account must be in good standing and you must have paid the annual fee and minimum payment by the due date. If you cancel your Card, change your rewards program or Card type, you will no longer be eligible for the Travel Credit.

10. The Centurion® Lounge.

Entry into The Centurion® Lounge is governed by the full Terms and Conditions available at amex.com.au/airportlounge. All entrants must adhere to the General Conditions of Entry. American Express Explorer Card Members are entitled to a total of two (2) entries into The Centurion® Lounges in Australia per calendar year (1 January to 31 December). Complimentary access is available for the Card Member’s children 17 years and younger. Card Members wishing to bring additional guests may be subject to a charge that is to be processed on the Card Member’s American Express Card.

11. Insurance disclaimer

The insurance on American Express Cards is subject to terms, conditions and exclusions (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits). You must use your American Express Explorer Credit Card to pay for your trip in order to be covered under the travel insurance and pay for eligible items for those items to be covered under the retail insurance benefits. It is important you read the American Express Explorer Credit Card Insurance Terms and Conditions and consider whether the insurance is right for you. We do not provide advice about the insurance or whether it is appropriate for your objectives, financial situation or needs. This insurance is underwritten by Chubb Insurance Australia Limited (ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL No. 239687) under a group policy of insurance held by American Express Australia Limited (ABN 92 108 952 085, AFSL No. 291313). Access to this insurance is provided solely by reason of the statutory operation of section 48 of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth). Card Members are not a party to the group policy, do not have an agreement with Chubb and cannot vary or cancel the cover. American Express is not the insurer, does not guarantee or hold the rights under the group policy on trust for Card Members and does not act on behalf of Chubb or as its agent. American Express is not an Authorised Representative (under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)) of Chubb.

This guide is brought to you in partnership with American Express.

Unlock ultimate flexibility with American Express Membership Rewards® was last modified: October 22nd, 2025 by Point Hacks