Rewards Cards let you earn benefits from your eligible everyday spending. Whether that’s points, credit to your Card or travel perks, these Cards can turn regular purchases into ongoing value.

 

If you’re new to Rewards Cards or want to better understand how they work, this guide will walk you through the basics. You’ll learn how rewards are earned, the different types available and what to consider when choosing one.

What are Rewards Cards?

 

A Rewards Credit or Charge Card allows you to earn points on eligible transactions1, which you can redeem for a wide range of retail and travel rewards. The type of reward and how quickly you can earn points depends on the Card you hold.

 

These rewards can take several forms:

 

  • Points that can be redeemed for a range of options
  • Using points to get credit to your Card
  • Travel-related benefits like flights or upgrades

 

The structure and flexibility of these rewards depend on the specific Card and reward program, which determines how you earn and use these benefits.

How do Rewards Cards work?

 

Rewards Credit Cards and Charge Cards are designed to reward eligible spending. While features vary by Card, most follow a similar structure.

 

1. Earning rewards

 

You typically earn rewards when you use your Card for eligible purchases1 and accumulate rewards based on your spending. For example:

 

  • Earn points per dollar spent on eligible purchases
  • Higher earn rates may be available in certain categories on eligible Cards
  • In some cases, additional rewards may be available through welcome offers or bonus points

2. Redeeming rewards

 

Once you’ve earned rewards, you can usually redeem them in a variety of ways1, such as:

 

  • Travel on eligible flights, hotels or car rental2
  • Gift Cards3 or shopping (using Pay With Points4 or Cover Charges with Points5)
  • Points for a credit to your Card6
  • By transferring your rewards points to partner programs7

 

The value you receive can vary depending on how you choose to redeem your rewards.

 

Things to keep in mind to make the most of your rewards

 

  • Redemption value can vary depending on how you use your rewards
  • Not all purchases made on your Card may be eligible for earning rewards
  • Rewards programs come with Terms & Conditions

Personal and business expenses1

 

Use your Personal Card for your personal expenses and earn points on eligible purchases such as petrol, grocery shopping, mobile phone bills and eating out. Use your Business Card for your Business expenses and earn points on utilities, insurance and government bodies.

 

 

 

 

 

Additional Personal Cards and Employee Business Cards

Add Additional Personal Cards for your family and friends8 to earn points on their spend. (Please note that the Primary Card Member is liable to pay for all transactions made by Additional Card Members). You can also add Employee Business Cards and earn points on their spend9. Fees may apply depending on your Business Card. (Please note that the Business and the Primary Card Member are jointly and severally liable for all Employee Card spending.)
 

Referrals

 

Successfully refer a friend or a fellow business and you could both earn Bonus Points10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Personal and business expenses1

Use your Personal Card for your personal expenses and earn points on eligible purchases such as petrol, grocery shopping, mobile phone bills and eating out. Use your Business Card for your Business expenses and earn points on utilities, insurance and government bodies

 

Additional Personal Cards and Employee Business Cards

Add Additional Personal Cards for your family and friends6 to earn points on their spend. (Please note that the Primary Card Member is liable to pay for all transactions made by Additional Card Members). You can also add Employee Business Cards and earn points on their spend.7 Fees may apply depending on your Business Card. (Please note that the Business and the Primary Card Member are jointly and severally liable for all Employee Card spending.)
 

Referrals

Successfully refer a friend or a fellow business and you could both earn Bonus Points8.

 

Here are some examples of the wide range of options to use your points with Amex Rewards Cards.

Pay with Points

Pay off your eligible purchases with your Membership Rewards® points4


 

Cover charges with Points

You can use your points to cover eligible transactions you’ve made on your Card5.


Use Points for Credit

Redeem your points for a credit to your Card6, then use this additional credit to buy whatever you like.

 

Redeem for Gift Cards

You can redeem your points for Gift Cards3 from leading brands and retailers across retail, dining, entertainment, experiences, wellness and more.
 

Use your points for travel

Use your Membership Rewards points to pay for your eligible flight, prepaid hotel or car rental when you book with Amex Travel Online2.

Transfer points to Partner Programs

Transfer your points to a wide range of Partner Programs7 where you can redeem for eligible flights, hotel stays and retail.
 

Types of Rewards Credit and Charge Cards

 

There are several types of Rewards Credit and Charge Cards, each suited to different needs:

 

Points-based Rewards Cards

 

  • Earn points on eligible purchases
  • Redeem points across multiple categories
  • Offer flexibility to use your rewards in different ways over time

 

Travel Rewards Cards

 

 

Statement credits or cashback Rewards Cards

 

  • Earn part of your spending back
  • Rewards are typically applied as statement credits

 

Each type offers a different balance of flexibility, simplicity and potential value, so understanding how they differ is an important step in choosing the right Rewards Card.

 

Quick comparison

 

Type of rewards Works well for Key benefit
Points-based rewards Flexibility Multiple redemption options
Statement Credits Simplicity Direct savings
Travel rewards Frequent travellers Travel-focused perks

 

Benefits of Rewards Credit Cards and Charge Cards

 

Earn on everyday spending - One of the main advantages of Rewards Credit Cards and Charge Cards is the ability to earn value from everyday spending. Purchases such as groceries, dining, or subscriptions can contribute towards rewards over time, turning routine expenses into something more rewarding.

 

Access to perks - In addition to earning rewards, some Cards may offer additional benefits. These can include travel-related features, exclusive offers or access to experiences depending on the Card. For some Card Members, these added features can enhance the overall value of their Card beyond the rewards themselves.

 

Flexible redemption options - Another key benefit is flexibility. Depending on the rewards program, you may have multiple options for how you use your rewards, allowing you to choose what works best for your needs at any given time.

 

Introductory offers - Some Cards also provide welcome offers or sign-up bonuses which can give you an opportunity to earn a higher amount of rewards early on, provided certain criteria are met.

 

Things to consider before choosing a Rewards Card

 

  • Annual fees - Rewards Cards come with annual fees. Check the value of the rewards and benefits to ensure that they offset this cost.
  • Interest rates – If you carry a balance on your Credit Card each month, interest charges will apply.
  • Late payment fees – Late payment fees apply on Charge Cards if your balance isn’t paid in full each month.
  • Rewards structure - Consider how rewards are earned and whether they align with your needs and spending habits.
  • Redemption options - Check how flexible and valuable the redemption options are.

 

How to choose the right Rewards Credit Card or Charge Card

 

Choosing the right Rewards Credit or Charge Card ultimately comes down to how you intend to use it.

 

  • If you value flexibility → a points-based Rewards Card may suit you
  • If you value cashflow and simplicity → a statement credit Rewards Card may be a better fit
  • If you value travel often → a travel Rewards Card could offer more value

 

Taking the time to match a Card’s features with your spending habits can help ensure you’re getting the most out of your rewards over the long term.

 

Compare Amex Rewards Credit Cards & Charge Cards

 

If you’re ready to explore the options available to you, you can compare a range of American Express Rewards Cards to find one that suits you. Read on to compare features and benefits and the different types of rewards to see which Card aligns with your needs.

  • Earn 3 points per $1 spent11 at major supermarkets including Woolworths, Coles, Harris Farm Markets and IGA and petrol stations including BP, Ampol and Caltex.
  • Earn 2 points per $1 spent on purchases in a foreign currency when overseas or online11.
  • Receive $200 annual Travel Credit12 to spend on eligible domestic and international flights, hotels or car hire with American Express Travel.
  • Add up to 4 Additional Cards at no extra cost for family members or friends6.
  • Get up to 55 days to pay for your purchases13.
  • Annual Fee: $195 p.a.

  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent14 at eligible restaurants, cafes, bars and selected food delivery services in Australia.
  • Earn 3 points per $1 spent14 on selected streaming subscriptions including Netflix and Spotify.
  • After a total of 10,000 points is earned in a month, you will earn 1 point for every $1 regardless of credits, returns and adjustments until the threshold resets at the start of the next calendar month14.
  • Enjoy elevated benefits like Pre-Sale and reserved tickets, complimentary drink vouchers, dedicated entrances, Card Member only Entertainment Lounges and other perks that are unique to each location.
  • Get up to 55 days to pay for your purchases13.
  • Annual Fee: $9 per month ($108 per year)
  • Earn 2 points per $1 spent on purchases excluding government bodies in Australia15, which earn 1 point per $1 spent.
  • Receive $400 annual Travel Credit16 to spend on eligible domestic and international flights, hotels or car hire with American Express Travel.
  • Enjoy Airport Lounge Access with two complimentary entries per calendar year to The Centurion® Lounge at Sydney or Melbourne International Airports17.
  • Smartphone Front Screen Cover18, covering up to $500 for repairs if you break your screen when you pay for your phone outright or monthly bill with your Card. (Please note: a 10% excess applies to the claimed amount. Waiting periods may apply. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply).
  • Get complimentary domestic & international Travel Insurance18 when you purchase a return trip on your Card. Policy includes cover for Medical Emergency Expenses, Cancellation & a range of cover for COVID-19. (Terms, conditions, cover limits and exclusions apply such as a maximum age limit of 79 when travel is purchased and a pre-existing medical condition(s) exclusion).
  • Annual Fee: $395 p.a.
  • Earn 2.25 points per $1 spent on purchases excluding government bodies in Australia19, which earn 1 point per $1 spent.
  • Enjoy up to $400 in Dining Credits20 with up to $200 to spend at participating restaurants in Australia and up to $200 to spend at participating restaurants abroad. (Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. A separate one-time enrolment is required. Benefit ends 31 December 2026.)
  • Receive $450 annual Travel Credit to spend on domestic or international travel each year when you book eligible flights, hotels or car hire with the Platinum Travel Service or American Express Travel Online21.
  • Enjoy access to a range of curated events with Platinum Card Experiences from sporting and fashion to fine dining, art and performances.
  • Get complimentary All Accor+ Explorer membership valued at $34922, with two ‘Stay Plus’ complimentary nights stay (each complimentary night must be booked in conjunction with a paid night) at over 1,300 participating hotels in Asia Pacific.
  • Annual Fee: $1,450 p.a.

BUSINESS CARD

  • Earn 3 points per $1 spent at Xero, Google Ads, Meta, Amazon Web Services and Dell23.
  • After a total of 200,000 points is earned in a calendar year, you will earn 1 point for every $1 for all spend.
  • Receive up to $650 credit back24 for your accounting, advertising, marketing, cloud services and tech costs when you spend with Xero, Google Ads, Meta, Amazon Web Services, Square and Dell. T&Cs apply.
  • Enjoy special car rental benefits25 when you enrol into Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®.
  • Access a line of unsecured funding with flexible spending power26.
  • Extend your Cash Flow by up to 55 days27.
  • Annual Fee: $395 p.a.

BUSINESS CARD

  • Earn 2.25 points per $1 spent28 on eligible purchases on your Card, excluding government bodies, which earn 1 point per $1 spent.
  • Spend with Dell Technologies online or via phone, to receive your purchase amount back as a credit, up to $125 back per redemption period29. (Benefit ends 31 December 2026. Exclusions apply.).
  • Access more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries30 with the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including the Centurion® Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, Priority PassTM Lounges and more.
  • Stay in the loop with complimentary, premium subscription to The Australian, as well as access to the Wall Street Journal31.
  • Enjoy special car rental benefits when you enrol into Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®32.
  • Annual Fee: $1,750 p.a.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Life With Amex: make the most of Amex Cards

 

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