How do I get a credit card in Australia?

You need to apply for a credit card before you can start using one. This is usually a simple process you can do online in a few steps: Compare credit cards from different providers to find one you want Check that you meet the eligibility requirements (e.g. being over the age of 18 and earning income) Complete the application, including supporting documentation (e.g. your driver's licence details, payslips etc) Before you apply it's important to think about how a credit card fits in with your financial situation. It may be helpful to use a repayment calculator to estimate potential costs and budget for repayments if you don't think you'll pay off what you spend each month. Also keep in mind that lenders check your credit report and score when you apply. So if you want to check these details before that, you can get a free copy of your report and score through Finder.

How to use a credit card (and avoid debt)

A credit card is convenient, but it comes with a risk of debt. Here are 4 tips to help you stay on top of payments. Ask for a credit limit you can manage. Credit card companies must determine your limit based on what you could "reasonably" afford to pay off over 3 years. But if the credit limit you're offered is higher than what you need, you can request a lower limit so you have more control. Pay more than the minimum. Only paying the minimum amount listed on your credit card statement can lead to years of debt and interest charges. So, aim to pay off the total balance by the statement's due date. Plan repayments. Set a monthly calendar reminder for the payment due date, or set up automated payments. Finder's credit card repayment calculator can also help you budget. Get help if you need it. If you’re struggling with your credit card, call your bank or provider to see what support is available. You can also get free financial advice by calling the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 .

What will getting a credit card do to my credit score?

Applying for a credit card impacts your credit score as each application is recorded on your credit file. Multiple applications in a short period can lower your score and missed repayments also negatively affect it. But regular payments and responsible use of a credit card can raise your credit score. It's all in how you use the card.

Which credit cards won Finder Awards?

The 2026 Finder Credit Card Awards recognise Australia's top credit cards across 15 categories. We used 12 months of data and a detailed methodology to find the winning cards for every type of customer. Providers like ANZ, American Express, Westpac, Kogan, Bankwest and NAB were among the winners this year.

Can I get a credit card if I have a bad credit history?

Yes, but it’s typically more difficult. It's a good idea to provide as much detail as possible on the application to show you can manage the account. You could also chat to your current bank before applying so they can guide you. If you can't get a credit card, an unsecured personal loan could be another option.

How do credit cards compare to buy now pay later services?

The discussion around credit cards vs Afterpay has been going on for years, but both cards and buy now pay later (BNPL) services have different features. Here's a basic breakdown: Credit cards: You can use a credit card almost everywhere: shops, cafes, online. They just need to accept the type of card you have (Amex, Mastercard, Visa). If you don't pay off your balance in full each month, you'll be charged interest. When you apply, the bank will check your credit score to decide what limit to give you. Buy now pay later: Most BNPL services let you buy items from partnered stores, then pay them off in fixed instalments over a few weeks or months. They don't typically charge interest but may have other fees, especially for late payments. Your credit history isn't usually checked when you apply and your limit will increase with responsible use.

What credit card options are available for people under 18?

Although you can't apply for a credit card in your name while you're under 18, you can consider the following options: Ask to be an additional cardholder on your parents' credit card. If you're at least 16 years of age, your parents may add you as a supplementary cardholder to their credit card account. This means that you will receive a credit card linked to their account, and they will remain legally responsible for all the expenses. Get a prepaid credit card. A prepaid credit card lets you preload the card with money. This means it's technically not a "credit" card because you are responsible for providing the money you spend, but it can be a useful pay-as-you-go option. With a prepaid card, you won't fall into debt, and can usually shop anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted (including online). Use a debit card. A debit card is similar to a prepaid card, except it is linked to a bank account. When you use this type of card, you are spending money that you have in the account and don't have to keep loading money like you would with a prepaid card. Most debit cards can be used for contactless payments and mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay, if you're set up with one of those accounts. Focus on savings. The importance of saving throughout your life is often underrated. Learning to save should be a critical focus, especially before you get a credit card. This will ensure you have funds that you can use when necessary and also prevent unmanageable credit card debt in the future. Before applying for a credit card, make sure that you've researched your chosen card and understood the terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Rather than thinking of these requirements as restrictive, understand that credit card application requirements help uphold responsible lending practises and protect consumers.

What is the most accepted credit card in Australia?

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards in Australia . They can be used for both domestic and international purchases, offering broad merchant acceptance and lower fees for use compared to other networks like American Express .

Credit Cards: Compare 200+ cards and find a better deal

Why do you want a new credit card?

14 of 227 results

Purchase rate p.a.	Bonus points	Points per $ spent	Interest-free period	Balance transfer rate p.a.	Annual fee
ANZ Low Rate - Balance Transfer Exclusive Offer Finder AwardExclusive	Purchase rate p.a. 13.74%	Bonus points N/A	Points per $ spent N/A	Interest-free period Up to 55 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 28 months with 2.5% balance transfer fee, then 21.99%	Annual fee $0 first year ($58 after)	Finder exclusive: 0% p.a. for 28 months on a balance transfer (with 2.5% balance transfer fee) and $0 first-year annual fee. Expires 31 March 2026. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selection Compare	loading
Qantas Money Platinum Qantas Frequent Flyer	Purchase rate p.a. 20.99%	Bonus points 120,000	Points per $ spent 1	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 12 months with 3% balance transfer fee, then 21.99%	Annual fee $349 first year ($399 after)	Receive 2 single-entry complimentary lounge invitations per year.	Go to site View details Compare product selection Compare	loading
Qantas American Express Ultimate Card Most LovedQantas Frequent Flyer	Purchase rate p.a. 23.99%	Bonus points 100,000	Points per $ spent 1.25	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. N/A	Annual fee $450	Get up to 100,000 bonus Qantas Points (70,000 points when you spend $5,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months and additional 30,000 points when you spend a minimum of $1 within 90 days of paying your second-year annual fee). New American Express card members only. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selection Compare	loading
Latitude Low Rate Mastercard - Balance Transfer Offer	Purchase rate p.a. 13.99%	Bonus points N/A	Points per $ spent N/A	Interest-free period Up to 55 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 24 months with 3% balance transfer fee, then 29.99%	Annual fee $69	ENDS SOON! $100 GIFT CARD REWARD 1 Click here 2 Apply for a Latitude Low Rate Mastercard 3 Get your eGift Card from Finder Ends by. T&Cs apply.	Balance transfer offer only available to new customers approved by 30 April 2026. Also get complimentary E-Commerce Purchase Protection Insurance. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Kogan Money Credit Card - Balance Transfer Exclusive Offer ExclusiveKogan Rewards Program	Purchase rate p.a. 21.99%	Bonus points N/A	Points per $ spent 1	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 18 months with 2% balance transfer fee, then 22.74%	Annual fee $0	Finder exclusive: Save with 0% p.a. for the first 18 months on balance transfers (with a one-time 2% balance transfer fee). T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Coles No Annual Fee Mastercard Flybuys	Purchase rate p.a. 20.74%	Bonus points N/A	Points per $ spent 0.5	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 12 months with 5% balance transfer fee, then 20.74%	Annual fee $0	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
American Express Platinum Card Most LovedAmerican Express Membership Rewards	Purchase rate p.a. 0%	Bonus points 220,000	Points per $ spent 2.25	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. N/A	Annual fee $1,450	Partner offer: 220,000 Bonus Membership Rewards Points when you apply through the link on this page and spend $5,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months. Ends 14 Apr 2026. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
ANZ Rewards Black Credit Card Finder AwardANZ Rewards Program	Purchase rate p.a. 20.99%	Bonus points 180,000	Points per $ spent 2	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 21.99%	Annual fee $375	Earn up to 180,000 extra ANZ Reward Points: 130,000 extra points + $100 back when you spend $5,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months from approval, and additional 50,000 points when you keep your card for over 15 months from activation.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Qantas Money Everyday Qantas Frequent Flyer	Purchase rate p.a. 20.99%	Bonus points 8,000	Points per $ spent 0.75	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 12 months with 3% balance transfer fee, then 21.99%	Annual fee $99	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Coles Rewards Mastercard Flybuys	Purchase rate p.a. 20.74%	Bonus points N/A	Points per $ spent 2	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 12 months with 5% balance transfer fee, then 20.74%	Annual fee $99	Receive a $250 Coles gift card when you apply by 30 June 2026 and spend $3,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days from approval. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
American Express Explorer Credit Card Most LovedAmerican Express Membership Rewards	Purchase rate p.a. 23.99%	Bonus points 75,000	Points per $ spent 2	Interest-free period Up to 55 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. N/A	Annual fee $395	Get 75,000 Bonus Membership Rewards Points when you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months. New American Express card members only. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
ANZ Rewards Platinum ANZ Rewards Program	Purchase rate p.a. 20.99%	Bonus points 125,000	Points per $ spent 1.5	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 21.99%	Annual fee $149	Earn up to 125,000 bonus ANZ Reward Points: 85,000 points + $50 back when you spend $3,500 in the first 3 months from approval and 40,000 points when you keep your card open for 15 months from activation.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
NAB Rewards Platinum Card – Velocity Points Most LovedNAB Rewards	Purchase rate p.a. 20.99%	Bonus points 90,000	Points per $ spent 1	Interest-free period Up to 44 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 12 months with 3% balance transfer fee, then 21.74%	Annual fee $195	Get up to 90,000 bonus Velocity Points: 70,000 points when you spend $4,000 in the first 90 days and 20,000 points after 12 months.	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading
Westpac Low Rate Card	Purchase rate p.a. 13.74%	Bonus points N/A	Points per $ spent N/A	Interest-free period Up to 55 days on purchases	Balance transfer rate p.a. 0% for 20 months with 3% balance transfer fee, then 21.99%	Annual fee $59	Go to site View details Compare product selectionCompare	loading

Showing 11 of 37 results

Find some of the terms in this table confusing? Jump down to our glossary to learn about key features and how to compare credit cards.

Why compare with Finder?

No spam calls

You won't receive any callbacks from Finder if you compare with us.

Perks obssessed

We live track and crunch the data on 250+ cards every day (no, really!).

All the card types you want

Balance transfer? Rewards? Low rate? We cover them all.

What is a credit card?

A credit card lets you spend money that you can pay back over time, usually with interest.

Unlike a debit card – where you need money in the bank – a credit card gives you a set amount you can spend (or borrow), known as your credit limit. You also get regular statements (usually monthly) and need to make repayments by the due date on them.

In Australia, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a credit card in your name.

Want more details? Check out Finder's guide to how credit cards work.

Our expert says

"When comparing credit cards, decide what's most important to you. Is it a low interest rate? Low annual fee? Bonus frequent flyer points? Maybe a balance transfer deal? For instance, I pay my balance in full each month, so I ignore the interest rates and don’t look at balance transfer offers. Instead, I aim to find cards with a great points earning rate. Knowing exactly what you want, makes it easier to find the right card for you."

Sarah Megginson

Money expert + media spokesperson

What types of credit cards are there?

There are 6 main types of credit cards. Every card is slightly different, so you should compare credit cards to find the best credit card that has the features that matter to you.

Card type	Principal use	Pros	Cons
Balance transfer	Pay off existing debt with no / low interest	Save money on interest and pay down debt faster	Minimal perks and no interest-free days on new purchases
Frequent flyer	Earn Qantas or Velocity Points on your spending	You can redeem points for flights or flight upgrades	High interest rates & annual fees
Rewards	Earn reward points on your spending	Get rewarded for money you’d spend anyway	High interest rates & annual fees
No annual fee	Credit without an upfront cost	Costs nothing if you pay it off in full or don’t use it at all	Minimal perks and higher interest rates
Low rate	Pay off purchases over time while paying less interest	Saves you money if you carry a balance from month to month	Minimal perks
Business	Managing cash flow and separating spending	Offer distinct features for business (like accounting feeds)	Stricter eligibility requirements

Credit card guides and resources

Hospital cover

New to credit cards?

Hospital cover tiers

Applying & credit score

Dental cover

Popular types of cards

Understanding tax

Managing your card

Comparison and deals

Comparisons & deals

How to compare credit cards

Here's a breakdown of features and charges you should look at when doing a credit card comparison.

Find the right type of cardWant Qantas Points? Get a frequent flyer card that lets you earn points when you spend. Need a simple, cheap card for everyday spending? Look at low rate or no annual fee cards.
Look at the purchase rateCredit cards charge high interest rates. But only if you don't pay the card off on time.
Count your interest free daysOne of the best features of a credit card, interest-free days let you buy something today and pay no interest for up to 55 days. How it actually works in practice is a little complicated though.
Look at all the perks and benefits the card offersSome credit cards give you reward or frequent flyer points, purchase protection or complimentary travel insurance, cashback on your spending or other rewards. The more perks a card offers the higher the annual fee. So if you don't use them, you're wasting money.

Credit cards 101

There are lots of confusing terms in credit card land. Here's a quick explainer:

Balance transfer rate. The interest rate you'll pay if you transfer a balance from one card to another. Most introductory offers are for 0% p.a. on your balance, but you may pay a one-time fee.
Cash advances. Try not to withdraw cash from an ATM or use your card to gamble or buy foreign currencies. These transactions are considered cash advances and they come with a fee plus a higher interest rate (which you get charged immediately).
Credit card network. The payment system that processes all your credit card transactions. In Australia most cards are either Visa, Mastercard or American Express.
Foreign transaction fees. This is the fee you'll be charged on purchases made in a foreign currency overseas or online. Some cards have 0% foreign fees.
Minimum repayment. You can repay all your card spending each month. Or you can pay it off slowly (and get charged interest). The minimum repayment is the lowest amount you must pay by the due date. Miss this, and you'll get charged a fee.

Expert insight: Why credit card records matter

"Maintaining these records helps you track your spending, verify transactions, and catch any errors or fraudulent activities promptly. They are also useful for budgeting, filing taxes, and providing proof of purchase or payment if disputes arise. Keeping organised and accessible records of your statements, whether in digital or paper form, ensures you have a comprehensive financial history that can be referenced whenever necessary."

Angel Zhong

Professor, RMIT

Pros & cons of credit cards

Pros

Flexibility. If you have a big purchase to make, a credit card can be a financial "buffer" – letting you buy it and then repay it over time. If it’s used wisely, it can be interest free.
Convenience. Credit cards allow you to buy what you need, when you need it. You can use them to shop in-store, online and overseas, with security features to protect against fraud.
Rewards. Everyone loves perks. A credit card can help you get frequent flyer points, cashback on your groceries, flight upgrades or even gift cards.

Cons

Debt. Credit card interest adds up quickly if you don't pay your balance on time, which could cost you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars and take a long time to pay back.
Can be expensive. The average interest rate for an Australian credit card is around 20%, RBA stats show. In comparison, the average interest rate for a variable rate personal loan is 14.41%.
Sneaky fees and surcharges. Some businesses add a surcharge to credit card payments, which can be 1–2% of the total purchase cost.

Bottom line? Credit cards have a mix of great perks and understandable risks. A good rule of thumb is to compare credit cards to ensure you get one with the features you need, while having a plan for paying it off and using the benefits.

What's happening in credit cards in March 2026?

EXPERTREVIEW

By Finder's senior money editor, Richard Whitten.

Australians spent $465.281 billion on their credit cards in the last 12 months, according to the latest figures. This is a record high.

The average Australian credit card balance is $3,582 per card. The average unpaid credit card balance (which carries interest charges) is now $1,749.

Young Australians are driving the growth in credit card use. Card applications among Gen Z grew 15% in 2025 compared to 2024.

In terms of credit card offers, the longest 0% balance transfer offer on the market in March is a Finder exclusive, the ANZ Low Rate Balance Transfer Exclusive Offer, which gives new ANZ customers 0% for 28 months with a 2.5% balance transfer fee.

For frequent flyers, Qantas recently announced changes to Qantas Status Credits, including the ability to roll over credits from one year to the next. But you'll also need to earn more credits to high the higher status tiers.

Have questions about credit cards? We have answers

You need to apply for a credit card before you can start using one. This is usually a simple process you can do online in a few steps:
1. Compare credit cards from different providers to find one you want
2. Check that you meet the eligibility requirements (e.g. being over the age of 18 and earning income)
3. Complete the application, including supporting documentation (e.g. your driver's licence details, payslips etc)
Before you apply it's important to think about how a credit card fits in with your financial situation. It may be helpful to use a repayment calculator to estimate potential costs and budget for repayments if you don't think you'll pay off what you spend each month.
Also keep in mind that lenders check your credit report and score when you apply. So if you want to check these details before that, you can get a free copy of your report and score through Finder.
A credit card is convenient, but it comes with a risk of debt. Here are 4 tips to help you stay on top of payments.
- Ask for a credit limit you can manage. Credit card companies must determine your limit based on what you could "reasonably" afford to pay off over 3 years. But if the credit limit you're offered is higher than what you need, you can request a lower limit so you have more control.
- Pay more than the minimum. Only paying the minimum amount listed on your credit card statement can lead to years of debt and interest charges. So, aim to pay off the total balance by the statement's due date.
- Plan repayments. Set a monthly calendar reminder for the payment due date, or set up automated payments. Finder's credit card repayment calculator can also help you budget.
- Get help if you need it. If you’re struggling with your credit card, call your bank or provider to see what support is available. You can also get free financial advice by calling the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.
Applying for a credit card impacts your credit score as each application is recorded on your credit file. Multiple applications in a short period can lower your score and missed repayments also negatively affect it. But regular payments and responsible use of a credit card can raise your credit score. It's all in how you use the card.
The discussion around credit cards vs Afterpay has been going on for years, but both cards and buy now pay later (BNPL) services have different features. Here's a basic breakdown:
- Credit cards: You can use a credit card almost everywhere: shops, cafes, online. They just need to accept the type of card you have (Amex, Mastercard, Visa). If you don't pay off your balance in full each month, you'll be charged interest. When you apply, the bank will check your credit score to decide what limit to give you.
- Buy now pay later: Most BNPL services let you buy items from partnered stores, then pay them off in fixed instalments over a few weeks or months. They don't typically charge interest but may have other fees, especially for late payments. Your credit history isn't usually checked when you apply and your limit will increase with responsible use.
Although you can't apply for a credit card in your name while you're under 18, you can consider the following options:
- Ask to be an additional cardholder on your parents' credit card. If you're at least 16 years of age, your parents may add you as a supplementary cardholder to their credit card account. This means that you will receive a credit card linked to their account, and they will remain legally responsible for all the expenses.
- Get a prepaid credit card. A prepaid credit card lets you preload the card with money. This means it's technically not a "credit" card because you are responsible for providing the money you spend, but it can be a useful pay-as-you-go option. With a prepaid card, you won't fall into debt, and can usually shop anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted (including online).
- Use a debit card. A debit card is similar to a prepaid card, except it is linked to a bank account. When you use this type of card, you are spending money that you have in the account and don't have to keep loading money like you would with a prepaid card. Most debit cards can be used for contactless payments and mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay, if you're set up with one of those accounts.
- Focus on savings. The importance of saving throughout your life is often underrated. Learning to save should be a critical focus, especially before you get a credit card. This will ensure you have funds that you can use when necessary and also prevent unmanageable credit card debt in the future.
Before applying for a credit card, make sure that you've researched your chosen card and understood the terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Rather than thinking of these requirements as restrictive, understand that credit card application requirements help uphold responsible lending practises and protect consumers.
Credit Card Finder® is a free, Australian-owned service that you can use to compare over 260 credit card offers from banks, credit unions and other financial institutions. We've been around since 2006 and keep a database of virtually every credit card on the market.
Our comparison tables are free to use and we link you directly to the lender's secure application page. We make money from featured partners but editorial opinions are our own.

Why you can trust our credit card experts

Obsessed with perks - we nerd out over points, rates & prizes - our editors spend hours (ok, days) crunching 250+ cards every single month. We even give them a simple score out of 10 if you just want the easy life.

No two cards the same - different cards are great for different things (and some are just junk). That's why we track and score every type of card from balance tranfers to rewards, cashback to low interest - so you don't waste a cent.

No BS - We're not owned by a bank, we don't have a call centre. Our only mission is to match you with the card of your dreams. Whether it's your first card, or you're a points ninja - we got you.

Sources

To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Sarah Megginson as part of our fact-checking process.

Written by

Richard Whitten

Senior Money Editor

Richard Whitten is Finder’s Senior Money Editor, with over eight years of experience in home loans, property, credit cards and personal finance. His insights appear in top media outlets like Yahoo Finance, Money Magazine, and the Herald Sun, and he frequently offers expert commentary on television and radio, helping Australians navigate mortgages and property ownership. Richard started his career in education and textbook publishing in South Korea. He holds multiple industry certifications, including a Certificate IV in Mortgage Broking (RG 206) and Tier 1 and Tier 2 certifications (RG 146), as well as a Bachelor of Education from the University of Sydney and a Graduate Certificate in Communications from Deakin University. See full bio

Richard's expertise

Richard has written 707 Finder guides across topics including:

Home loans
Credit cards
Personal finance
Money-saving tips

More resources on Finder

Ask a question

Click here to cancel reply.

Display name

Your email (will not be published)

Your question

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms Of Service and Finder Group Privacy & Cookies Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

131 Responses

kateApril 15, 2018

Please advise when the the complimentary Qantas airport lounges currently offered as a bonus when applying for the amex ultimate Qantas card apply. Is it only after a year of membership? Do they need to be applied for or do they come automatically? Are they available once the $3000 spend has been reached?
Thanks,
Kate

Finder

JeniApril 15, 2018Finder

Hi Kate,

Thank you for getting in touch with Finder.

To be eligible to get into a Qantas Airport Lounge or Club, you can choose to pay for a one, two or four year membership to the Qantas club using your Qantas points, or by paying a fee. As a Qantas Club member you will have access to Qantas-operated international business lounges, as well as the Emirates lounge in Dubai, provided your next flight is with Qantas or Emirates.

When you apply online, are approved and spend $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months of card membership then you get your 55,000 bonus points.

You may also want to check American Express Qantas Ultimate Card.

I hope this helps.

Have a great day!

Cheers,
Jeni

JoeMarch 25, 2018

I want a credit card with a travel insurance for over 80 year old attached.
Thank you

Finder

DeeMarch 26, 2018Finder

Hi Joe,

Thanks for your question.

Most credit card complimentary travel insurance we feature on our website is only available for those 80 years old or under. Upon checking, I found that NAB complimentary travel insurance is available for those who are up to 90 years old. However, cardholders between the ages of 76 and 90 years receive limited benefits compared to cardholders aged 75 years and under, including no overseas travel and medical insurance benefit.

You may compare NAB credit cards with complimentary travel insurance using our comparison table.

Please click the name of the card or the “More info” link to be redirected to our review page and learn more about the card’s fees and rates, and requirements as well as the pros and cons. When you are ready, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the bank’s website where you can proceed with the application or get in touch with their representatives for further inquiries you may have.

Before applying, please ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and read through the details of the needed requirements as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions when comparing your options before making a decision on whether it is right for you.

Cheers,
Anndy

TyponyGuyMarch 5, 2018

Hi,
I have a car loan with a high EMI (around 2700 per month for 9 more months) and a credit card with 6000 limit. I have an income of 10000 pre tax.
Would I be eligible for another credit card (Amex Explorer)?
I am concerned, if I apply and it gets rejected, it will just reduce my credit rating.

Finder

JhezelynMarch 7, 2018Finder

Hi TyponyGuy,

Thank you for your comment.

Please note that each time you submit an application for a credit card, the provider will conduct a hard credit inquiry which means requesting a copy of your credit report. Regardless if you’re approved or not, this is recorded on your report for up to two years and each hard inquiry can take a few points off your credit score. Learn more on factors affecting credit score.

By the way, you may be able to apply for the American Express Explorer Credit Card provided that you meet their criteria. If you do, simply press the “Go to Site” button to start your application.

Regards,
Jhezelyn

TyponyGuyMarch 7, 2018

Hi Jhezelyn,

Thanks for the response.
I understand how even a successful application can take points out of my credit rating etc.
My only concern here was how having a car loan, which is for a short period but high monthly repayments, would affect my credit card application.
My credit rating going low after a successful application is a much safer, better situation than it going low with a rejected application.

I just wanted to understand how much of a ‘high risk’ customer does my car loan make me currently. And as far as the eligibility criteria mentioned on the page goes, I believe even after taking the monthly repayments out of my income, I would be fulfilling the criteria.
Is there a way I can be sure about that though?

Finder

JhezelynMarch 7, 2018Finder

Hi TyponyGuy,

Thank you for getting back to us.

Generally, credit card providers want to determine whether you will be able to afford to make repayments, and if you have too much liabilities to repay, like that of the car loan, then there’s a risk your credit card application will be rejected. Also note that credit card is a product for people with good credit only.

Still best to directly ask the provider about your chances of getting approved for a credit card application as criteria varies depending on the provider. You may refer to some of our guides on how to be approved for credit cards below:
– https://www.finder.com.au/credit-cards/credit-card-application-tips
– https://www.finder.com.au/applying-for-my-first-credit-card

Regards,
Jhezelyn

akashFebruary 20, 2018

credit card yes bank mai apply kervana hai
plz help me

Finder

JonathanFebruary 21, 2018Finder

Hi Akash, can you please rephrase your question?

Thanks,

Jonathan

TonyFebruary 6, 2018

Hi just about to move to Australia, do credit cards here provide interest free installment plans on airline ticket purchases. In my home country I can avail of a3,6,9or 12 months interest free repayment facility on ticket purchases of over a certain value.

Thanks

Finder

JonathanFebruary 28, 2018Finder

Hi Tony,

Thanks for your inquiry!

Whilst credit cards do not provide interest free instalment plans on airline tickets, you may apply for a 0% purchase credit card. This type of card enables you to make purchases and not pay any interest for a set period of time. You’ll find a comparison table on the page that will help you find the card that suits you. Once you have chosen a particular card, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the bank’s website where you can proceed with your application or get in touch with their representatives for further assistance.

You may also refer to the sites where to book layby flights.

Best,

Jonathan

Credit card comparison made easy