Looking to get a bit more bang for your buck when you’re spending? You’re not alone. Lots of Aussies are on the hunt for credit cards that give something back, and thankfully, there are heaps of options out there. We’ve had a look at some of the top credit cards offering cash back, or similar rewards, that might just help you save a bit here and there. It’s not always about the flashiest points, sometimes a simple cash back is the most practical way to get value.
Key Takeaways
- Several Australian credit cards offer cash back or points that can be redeemed for cash-like rewards.
- American Express cards like the Platinum and Explorer often come with strong rewards programs, though annual fees can be high.
- Qantas Money and ANZ Frequent Flyer cards focus on Qantas Points, which can be a good option if you fly often, but direct cash back might be more straightforward for some.
- Cards like the NAB Rewards Platinum and Coles Mastercard offer points that can be converted into various rewards, including statement credits.
- MoneyMe Cashback Credit Card is a more direct cash back option, offering a percentage back on purchases.
1. American Express Platinum Card
The American Express Platinum Card is definitely aimed at the frequent traveller who likes a bit of luxury. It comes with a pretty hefty annual fee of A$1,450, so you’ll want to make sure you’re getting enough value out of it. This card is best for those who travel often and can take advantage of the premium perks.
When it comes to earning points, you get 2.25 Membership Rewards points for every dollar spent on most purchases, and 1 point per dollar on government spending. These points are super flexible and can be transferred to over 10 airline partners, including Qantas, Singapore Airlines, and Virgin Australia. This flexibility is a big plus if you like to shop around for the best flight deals.
Here’s a quick look at the earning rates:
- 2.25 points per A$1: On eligible purchases (excluding government bodies in Australia).
- 1 point per A$1: On purchases at government bodies in Australia.
The welcome offer can be quite generous, often giving you a large chunk of bonus Membership Rewards Points after meeting a minimum spend in the first few months. Always check the latest offer on the American Express website, as these can change.
Beyond the points, the card offers a bunch of travel benefits. You get access to airport lounges, which is a nice way to relax before a flight. There are also offers and partnerships that can save you money on shopping and dining. If you’re someone who travels a lot and enjoys those little extras, this card might be worth a look. It’s also worth noting that you can book travel with points using Membership Rewards, which can be a great way to save on flights and hotels.
2. Qantas Money Platinum Credit Card
The Qantas Money Platinum Credit Card is built for people who want to rake in Qantas Points without spending a fortune on fees. The big draw is the bonus of 80,000 Qantas Points if you spend $5,000 in the first 90 days. With a Finder Score of 9.6, it stands out in the Australian market for its competitive mix of points and benefits. The annual fee isn’t sky-high either, especially when you look at some other premium points cards.
Here’s a quick look at the numbers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $349 (Year 1), $399 after |
| Bonus Points Offer | 80,000 Qantas Points |
| Spend Requirement | $5,000 in 90 days |
| Min. Credit Limit | $6,000 |
| Points per $1 (domestic) | 1 point (up to $10,000/m) |
| Points per $1 (overseas) | 1.5 points |
Fees to keep in mind:
- Foreign transaction fee: 3%
- Late payment fee: $30
- Cash advance and over-the-counter fees apply
Extra perks:
- Two complimentary Qantas Club lounge passes each year
- 20% off selected domestic companion fares (for you and up to eight others, once per year)
- Up to 44 days interest free
If Qantas Points are your thing and you can comfortably meet the spend requirement, this card is a pretty tidy way to fast-track those rewards. Could be a solid fit for frequent flyers or folks who book Qantas flights now and then.
Find more about the bonus points deal on the Qantas Money Platinum card.
3. NAB Rewards Platinum Card
The NAB Rewards Platinum Card is a solid choice if you’re looking to rack up points for future travel or other rewards. It’s known for its decent points earning rate on everyday spending.
When you first get the card, there’s often a pretty good bonus points offer available. For example, you might get up to 100,000 bonus NAB Rewards Points, which is a nice chunk to start with. Just remember to check the specific terms and conditions for any spending requirements to snag those bonus points. They also sometimes offer 0% interest on balance transfers for a period, which can be handy if you’re looking to consolidate debt.
Here’s a quick look at how you earn points:
- 1 NAB Reward Point for every dollar spent on eligible purchases.
- There might be bonus points for specific spending categories, but this can change.
- Points can be transferred to various airline partners, giving you flexibility.
It’s worth comparing this card to others to see if the points earning aligns with your spending habits. You can often find good deals on rewards credit cards in Australia if you shop around.
The annual fee for the NAB Rewards Platinum Card is typically around $195, which is pretty standard for a platinum-level card. Keep an eye on the purchase interest rate too, as it’s usually around 20.99% p.a. if you carry a balance.
4. Coles Rewards Mastercard
If you do a fair bit of your grocery shopping at Coles, this card might be worth a look. The Coles Rewards Mastercard is designed to give back to regular shoppers, especially those who frequent the supermarket aisles. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to get a little something back on your everyday spending, particularly if that spending happens at Coles.
One of the main draws is the bonus offer you can snag when you first get the card. Apply by 30 June 2026 and spend $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first 90 days, and you’ll get a $250 Coles gift card. That’s a nice chunk of change to put towards your next shop.
When it comes to earning rewards, this card lets you collect Flybuys points. You can earn up to 3 Flybuys points for every dollar you spend. This means your weekly grocery run could be racking up points faster than you think.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Bonus Offer: A $250 Coles Gift Card (when you meet spending criteria).
- Points Earning: Up to 3 Flybuys points per $1 spent on eligible purchases.
- Annual Fee: $99 per year.
- Purchase Rate: 20.74% p.a.
It’s worth noting that while the card offers a good points-earning rate, the value you get back can depend on how you redeem your Flybuys points. Some people find they can get a decent discount on their groceries if they spend around $10,000 annually, potentially saving about $100 off their shopping bill at Coles Supermarkets.
This card is pretty straightforward. You spend, you earn points, and you get a bonus if you meet the initial spending target. It’s not overly complicated, which is nice when you just want to get on with things.
5. MoneyMe Cashback Credit Card
Looking for a straightforward way to get a bit back on your everyday spending? The MoneyMe Cashback Credit Card might be worth a look. It’s designed to give you a percentage of your purchases back as actual cash, which is pretty handy.
This card offers 1% cashback on eligible everyday purchases. That means for every dollar you spend on things like groceries, petrol, or your morning coffee, you’ll get one cent back. It’s not a massive amount on a single purchase, but it can add up over time, especially if you use your card a lot.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:
- Cashback Rate: 1% on eligible everyday purchases.
- Interest-Free Period: Up to 44 days interest-free on purchases.
- Annual Fee: $149 per year.
- Purchase Rate: 26.99% p.a.
They also sometimes have special offers, like bonus cashback on fuel for a limited time, so it’s always worth checking their current deals. The cashback is usually credited to your account monthly, which means you see the benefit fairly quickly. It’s a simple system, and that’s often the best kind when you’re trying to save money without too much fuss. You can find out more about how the cashback works on their site.
While the 1% cashback is consistent, remember to factor in the annual fee. If your spending habits don’t generate enough cashback to offset that $149 cost, it might not be the most economical choice for you. It’s a good idea to do a quick calculation based on your typical monthly expenses to see if it makes financial sense.
It’s a pretty no-frills approach to cashback, which can be a good thing if you just want a simple way to earn a little extra money back without complicated reward schemes or points to track. Just make sure you pay off your balance each month to avoid interest charges eating into your cashback gains.
6. American Express Explorer Credit Card
The American Express Explorer Credit Card is a solid choice if you’re looking to rack up points for travel. It’s not quite the top-tier card, but it offers a good balance of earning potential and perks without the super high annual fee of some other Amex cards.
You’ll earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every dollar you spend on eligible purchases. This is pretty standard, but it’s the flexibility of these points that really shines. They can be transferred to a bunch of different airline partners, which is handy if you’re not loyal to just one frequent flyer program. Plus, you can use them for hotels and other travel stuff too.
Here’s a quick look at what you get:
- Welcome Bonus: Usually, there’s a decent chunk of bonus points up for grabs when you first get the card and meet a minimum spend. Keep an eye out for offers like 75,000 bonus Membership Rewards points when you spend $4,000 in the first three months. It’s a good way to kickstart your points balance.
- Earning Rate: 1 point per $1 on most purchases. It’s not the highest rate out there, but it’s consistent.
- Annual Fee: This card typically has an annual fee, but it’s generally lower than the premium cards. It’s often around the $395 mark, which can be worth it if you make good use of the travel benefits.
- Travel Perks: You often get some nice travel inclusions, like travel insurance and sometimes hotel credits or room upgrades. These can add up and save you a bit of cash on your trips.
While the points earning rate is straightforward, the real value comes from how you use them. Transferring to airline partners can often get you more bang for your buck compared to redeeming directly through the card issuer.
It’s worth checking the current offers for the American Express Explorer Credit Card to see the latest welcome bonus and any other deals they might be running. Remember to factor in the annual fee and compare it against the value you expect to get from the points and perks before signing up.
7. Latitude 28 Global Platinum Card
If you’re someone who travels a fair bit, or just likes to keep an eye on spending when you’re overseas, the Latitude 28 Degrees Global Platinum Card is worth a look. It’s a solid choice for travellers because it doesn’t charge you any foreign transaction fees. That means when you’re buying souvenirs, grabbing a coffee, or paying for a hotel abroad, you won’t get hit with those extra percentage charges that can really add up.
Here’s a quick rundown of what it offers:
- No foreign transaction fees: This is the big one. You save money on every purchase made in a foreign currency.
- Annual Fee: The first year is usually free, which is a nice bonus. After that, there’s an annual fee, but it’s waived if you spend a certain amount each year. This encourages you to use the card.
- Latitude Rewards: You can earn rewards points on your spending, which can be redeemed for various things. There are often bonus points offers when you first sign up and meet certain spending criteria.
When you’re looking at cards for overseas use, it’s easy to get caught up in points or fancy perks. But for everyday spending abroad, like meals and transport, avoiding those pesky foreign transaction fees often saves you more money in the long run than earning a few extra points.
It’s a Mastercard, so you’ll find it’s accepted pretty much everywhere you go. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some super-premium cards, like airport lounge access, it focuses on what really matters for international spending: keeping costs down. If you’re after a no-fuss card for your travels, this one is definitely a contender. You can check out more details about the 28 Degrees Mastercard and its benefits.
8. Bankwest Zero Platinum Card
Looking for a credit card that won’t cost you an arm and a leg in annual fees? The Bankwest Zero Platinum Card might be worth a look. It boasts a lifetime annual fee waiver, which is pretty sweet if you plan on keeping the card for a while. This means you can avoid that yearly charge that sneaks up on you.
One of the big draws here is the lack of foreign transaction fees. If you travel overseas even a little bit, this can add up to some decent savings. You get to use the true exchange rate without any extra percentage tacked on by the bank. Plus, for new cardholders, there’s a 0% interest period for the first six months on both purchases and balance transfers. Just remember, a 3% fee applies to those balance transfers, so factor that in.
Here’s a quick rundown of some key features:
- No Annual Fee: Ever. Seriously.
- 0% p.a. Intro Rate: For 6 months on purchases and balance transfers (3% fee applies to balance transfers).
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Spend overseas without the extra charges.
- Interest-Free Period: Up to 55 days on purchases if you pay your balance in full.
- Travel Insurance: Complimentary cover for eligible travellers.
While the card doesn’t earn rewards points like some of its fancier counterparts, its main appeal is its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. It’s designed for people who want a straightforward card without the bells and whistles, focusing instead on saving money through waived fees and introductory offers. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a no-fuss credit card for everyday spending and travel, especially if you want to avoid annual fees and foreign exchange markups. You can find out more about travel insurance benefits on their site.
Keep in mind that while the intro rate is great, the ongoing purchase rate is 18.99% p.a. So, if you’re carrying a balance after the intro period, it could get expensive. It’s definitely a card best suited for those who can manage their spending and pay off their balance, or who are looking to consolidate debt with a temporary 0% interest offer.
9. ANZ Frequent Flyer Black Card
If you’re all about Qantas points, the ANZ Frequent Flyer Black Card is definitely one to look at. It’s pretty straightforward in how you earn points, which is nice when you just want to get on with things. This card is best for Qantas loyalists who want a clear path to earning points.
When you first get the card, there’s a pretty decent welcome offer. You can get up to 130,000 bonus Qantas Points and $200 back. To snag that, you’ll need to spend $5,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months. Plus, there’s an extra 40,000 points if you keep the card for over a year. It’s a good chunk of points to get you started on your next flight.
Here’s a quick rundown of the earning potential:
- Domestic Spend: You’ll earn 1 Qantas Point for every $1 spent, up to $7,500 each statement period. After that, it drops to 0.5 points per dollar.
- International Spend: This card doesn’t have a specific bonus rate for overseas spending, so it’s the same 1 point per $1.
- Other Purchases: Generally, it’s 1 point per $1 on eligible purchases.
There are a couple of airport lounge passes thrown in each year, which is a nice perk for frequent travellers. You also get comprehensive travel insurance, which can save you a bit of hassle and money if something goes wrong on a trip. Just remember to check the eligibility criteria to make sure you qualify.
The annual fee is $425, which includes a $370 card fee and a $55 Rewards Program Services Fee. It’s not the cheapest card out there, but for serious Qantas flyers, the points and benefits can make it worthwhile. Just be mindful of the 3.5% foreign transaction fee if you plan on using it overseas a lot.
Key Details:
- Annual Fee: $425
- Welcome Offer: Up to 130,000 bonus Qantas Points + $200 cash back
- Earn Rate: 1 Qantas Point per $1 (up to $7,500/period domestically)
- Lounge Access: 2 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits annually
- Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance included
10. MyCard Premier Qantas Card
The MyCard Premier Qantas Card, formerly known as the Citi Premier Card, is a decent option if you’re keen on racking up Qantas Points. It’s aimed at Qantas travellers who like the idea of bonus points and a bit of flexibility with their rewards.
This card offers a welcome bonus of up to 100,000 Qantas Points. You get 70,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first three months, and another 30,000 if you keep the card for over a year. That’s a pretty good chunk of points to get you started.
Here’s a quick look at the earning rates:
- 1 Qantas Point per $1 on eligible international transactions (made overseas or with an online overseas merchant).
- 1 Qantas Point per $1 on eligible online transactions.
- 0.5 Qantas Points per $1 on most other domestic spending.
It also comes with a few travel perks, like two complimentary visits to Priority Pass lounges each year and some travel insurance coverage. You’ll also get mobile phone insurance and concierge services, which can be handy.
Keep in mind the annual fee is $350, and the foreign transaction fee is 3.5%. So, while it’s good for Qantas points, weigh up the costs against how much you’ll actually use the benefits and the earning potential.
If you’re a regular Qantas flyer and can make the most of the points and perks, the MyCard Premier Qantas Card could be a good fit for your wallet. Just make sure you meet the eligibility criteria, which includes being a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and having a good credit history. You can find out more about applying online here.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it. Finding a credit card that gives you a bit back on your everyday spending isn’t as tricky as it might seem. We’ve looked at the sign-up bonuses that give you a nice boost right off the bat, and the ongoing rewards that keep paying off the more you use your card. Just remember to check the details, like annual fees and any spending limits, to make sure the card actually works for your wallet. It’s all about picking one that fits how you spend your money. Happy saving!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to pick a credit card that gives me cash back?
Think about how you usually spend your money. If you buy a lot of groceries, look for a card that gives you extra cash back on supermarket shopping. If you fill up your car often, a card that offers more cash back on fuel might be a good choice. It’s all about matching the card’s rewards to your everyday habits to save the most.
Are sign-up bonuses really worth it?
Definitely! Sign-up bonuses are like a welcome gift from the credit card company. They often give you a bunch of points or cash back just for signing up and spending a certain amount in the first few months. Just make sure you can meet the spending requirement without buying things you don’t need. It’s a great way to get a head start on your savings.
What’s the difference between points and cash back?
Cash back is pretty straightforward – you get a percentage of your spending back as money, either as a credit on your statement or directly into your bank account. Points are a bit different; you earn them for spending and then swap them for things like flights, gifts, or even statement credits. Cash back is simpler, but points can sometimes give you more value if you use them wisely for things you really want.
Do I need to worry about annual fees?
Yes, it’s important to check the annual fee. Some cards with lots of cool perks and high rewards might have a yearly fee. You need to figure out if the rewards you get back are more than the fee you pay. Some cards have no annual fee at all, which is great if you want to keep costs down.
Can I get cash back when I use my card overseas?
This can be tricky. Many cards charge extra fees for spending in other countries, and these fees can eat up any cash back you might earn. Some cards are better for overseas spending because they have lower fees or even no foreign transaction fees. Always check the card’s details before you travel.
What happens if I don’t use my rewards or cash back?
With cash back, it’s usually just money, so there’s no expiry. However, points often have an expiry date, or the value of the rewards might change over time. It’s a good idea to keep track of your points and use them before they lose their value or disappear. Check the terms and conditions of your card so you don’t miss out.
