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Earn up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points with the American Express Velocity Platinum Card

FIND OUT MORE & APPLY

Earn up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points with the American Express Velocity Platinum Card

Card Overview

Earn 70,000 Velocity Points¹ with the American Express Velocity Platinum when you apply by 13 October 2026, are approved, and spend $5,000 in the first 3 months. Plus, an additional 30,000 bonus Velocity Points when you spend a further $5,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of your second year Card Membership. Offer available to new American Express Members only. T&Cs apply.

Offer available to new American Express Members only. T&Cs apply.

FIND OUT MORE & APPLY

Point Hacks may receive a commission from the card issuer for each applicant of this card More about this.

Financially reviewed by Michael Ebstein — Written by Daniel Sciberras and published Apr 29, 2025 | Last updated Aug 5, 2026

Our Review Process

Point Hacks' content is created, fact-checked, and reviewed by qualified experts across credit cards, loyalty programs, personal finance, and travel rewards.

This article went through a multi-step process led by our Editors, Financial Reviewers, Loyalty Specialists, and Compliance Advisors to ensure accuracy, clarity, and practical value for Australian travellers.

We continuously update our content to reflect:

Read about our editorial process

Our Editorial Team

Michael Ebstein

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL REVIEWER

Daniel Sciberras

PR MANAGER & MEDIA SPOKESPERSON

Earn up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points with the American Express Velocity Platinum Card

FIND OUT MORE & APPLY

Point Hacks may receive a commission from the card issuer for each applicant of this card More about this.

Financially reviewed by Michael Ebstein — Written by Daniel Sciberras and published Apr 29, 2025 | Last updated Aug 5, 2026

Offer available to new American Express Members only. T&Cs apply.

Up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points¹

Signup Bonus

$440 p.a.

Annual Fee

Velocity Frequent Flyer

Loyalty Program

Key Attributes

Earn

Velocity Points per $1

2.25 Points

on selected Virgin Australia purchases²

1.25 Points

on eligible everyday spend²

0.5 Points

on Government spend²

Travel Benefits

Virgin Australia Lounge Access

Virgin Australia Lounge Access every time you fly with Virgin Australia³

Virging Australia Lounge Passes

2 Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes⁴

Complimentary Flight

Complimentary Virgin Australia Domestic Return Flight⁵

Status Credits

Up to 100 Bonus Velocity status credits⁶

Bonus Minimum Spend

$10,000

Spend $5,000 within 3 months from approval date to receive 70,000 Velocity Points, and a further $5,000 within 3 months of your second year Card Membership to receive an additional 30,000 Velocity Points.

Annual Fee

$440 p.a.

Points Cap

No

ATO Points

Yes

0.5 Points per $1²

Overseas Transaction Fee

3.5%

of the converted amount

Interest-free period

Up to 55 days9

Purchase Rate

23.99% p.a.

Why Choose This Card

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card continues to be one of the strongest options for Virgin Australia frequent flyers. With an annual fee of $440, it gives real value back through benefits many travellers will actually use — a Complimentary Domestic Return Flight each year⁵, Virgin Australia Lounge access every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia³, and two Guest Lounge Passes for friends or family⁴.

Frequent travellers can also earn up to 100 Velocity Status Credits each year⁶, helping accelerate your climb through Velocity tiers — a valuable extra for anyone chasing Priority Boarding.

Also, it’s among the highest Velocity Points-earning cards available², making it a smart choice for those who want to grow their Points balance quickly and enjoy a more comfortable flying experience.

American Express ‘Plan It⁸’ allows Card Members to pay off eligible transactions or a portion of your balance in equal monthly instalments. You can choose between a 3, 6 or 12 month plan, and there’s no interest, but a fixed monthly fee applies to access this feature. The minimum plan amount is $100.

This guide references some of the benefits of insurance policies provided with this card. You should read the PDS and obtain independent professional advice before obtaining this product.

Eligibility Criteria

These are the minimum requirements to be eligible to apply for this Card. Other additional eligibility criteria, such as proof of income, will generally be required later on.

Why Choose This Card

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card continues to be one of the strongest options for Virgin Australia frequent flyers. With an annual fee of $440, it gives real value back through benefits many travellers will actually use — a Complimentary Domestic Return Flight each year⁵, Virgin Australia Lounge access every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia³, and two Guest Lounge Passes for friends or family⁴.

Frequent travellers can also earn up to 100 Velocity Status Credits each year⁶, helping accelerate your climb through Velocity tiers — a valuable extra for anyone chasing Priority Boarding.

Also, it’s among the highest Velocity Points-earning cards available², making it a smart choice for those who want to grow their Points balance quickly and enjoy a more comfortable flying experience.

American Express ‘Plan It⁸’ allows Card Members to pay off eligible transactions or a portion of your balance in equal monthly instalments. You can choose between a 3, 6 or 12 month plan, and there’s no interest, but a fixed monthly fee applies to access this feature. The minimum plan amount is $100.

This guide references some of the benefits of insurance policies provided with this card. You should read the PDS and obtain independent professional advice before obtaining this product.

READ MORE

Card Overview

Earn 70,000 Velocity Points¹ with the American Express Velocity Platinum when you apply by 13 October 2026, are approved, and spend $5,000 in the first 3 months. Plus, an additional 30,000 bonus Velocity Points when you spend a further $5,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of your second year Card Membership. Offer available to new American Express Members only. T&Cs apply.

Key Attributes

Earn

Velocity Points per $1

2.25 Points

on selected Virgin Australia purchases²

1.25 Points

on eligible everyday spend²

0.5 Points

on Government spend²

Travel Benefits

Virgin Australia Lounge Access

Virgin Australia Lounge Access every time you fly with Virgin Australia³

Virging Australia Lounge Passes

2 Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes⁴

Complimentary Flight

Complimentary Virgin Australia Domestic Return Flight⁵

Status Credits

Up to 100 Bonus Velocity status credits⁶

Bonus Minimum Spend

$10,000

Spend $5,000 within 3 months from approval date to receive 70,000 Velocity Points, and a further $5,000 within 3 months of your second year Card Membership to receive an additional 30,000 Velocity Points.

Annual Fee

$440 p.a.

Points Cap

No

ATO Points

Yes

0.5 Points per $1²

Overseas Transaction Fee

3.5%

of the converted amount

Interest-free period

Up to 55 days9

Purchase Rate

23.99% p.a.

READ MORE

Why Choose This Card

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card continues to be one of the strongest options for Virgin Australia frequent flyers. With an annual fee of $440, it gives real value back through benefits many travellers will actually use — a Complimentary Domestic Return Flight each year⁵, Virgin Australia Lounge access every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia³, and two Guest Lounge Passes for friends or family⁴.

Frequent travellers can also earn up to 100 Velocity Status Credits each year⁶, helping accelerate your climb through Velocity tiers — a valuable extra for anyone chasing Priority Boarding.

Also, it’s among the highest Velocity Points-earning cards available², making it a smart choice for those who want to grow their Points balance quickly and enjoy a more comfortable flying experience.

American Express ‘Plan It⁸’ allows Card Members to pay off eligible transactions or a portion of your balance in equal monthly instalments. You can choose between a 3, 6 or 12 month plan, and there’s no interest, but a fixed monthly fee applies to access this feature. The minimum plan amount is $100.

This guide references some of the benefits of insurance policies provided with this card. You should read the PDS and obtain independent professional advice before obtaining this product.

Eligibility Criteria

These are the minimum requirements to be eligible to apply for this Card. Other additional eligibility criteria, such as proof of income, will generally be required later on.

Why Choose This Card

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card continues to be one of the strongest options for Virgin Australia frequent flyers. With an annual fee of $440, it gives real value back through benefits many travellers will actually use — a Complimentary Domestic Return Flight each year⁵, Virgin Australia Lounge access every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia³, and two Guest Lounge Passes for friends or family⁴.

Frequent travellers can also earn up to 100 Velocity Status Credits each year⁶, helping accelerate your climb through Velocity tiers — a valuable extra for anyone chasing Priority Boarding.

Also, it’s among the highest Velocity Points-earning cards available², making it a smart choice for those who want to grow their Points balance quickly and enjoy a more comfortable flying experience.

American Express ‘Plan It⁸’ allows Card Members to pay off eligible transactions or a portion of your balance in equal monthly instalments. You can choose between a 3, 6 or 12 month plan, and there’s no interest, but a fixed monthly fee applies to access this feature. The minimum plan amount is $100.

This guide references some of the benefits of insurance policies provided with this card. You should read the PDS and obtain independent professional advice before obtaining this product.

READ MORE

Where could 100,000 Velocity Points take you?

You could redeem them for the following:

More comfort, more legroom, more Singapore

Fly return from Sydney to Singapore in Business Class on Singapore Airlines for 115,000 Points (redemption value calculated on 22 July 2026). Taxes and carrier charges apply**.

Touch down in Bali, rested not rushed

Fly return from Sydney to Bali in Business Class for 105,000 Points (redemption value calculated on 22 July 2026). Taxes and carrier charges apply**.

Where could 100,000 Velocity Points take you?

You could redeem them for the following:

More comfort, more legroom, more Singapore

Fly return from Sydney to Singapore in Business Class on Singapore Airlines for 115,000 Points (redemption value calculated on 22 July 2026). Taxes and carrier charges apply**.

Touch down in Bali, rested not rushed

Fly return from Sydney to Bali in Business Class for 105,000 Points (redemption value calculated on 22 July 2026). Taxes and carrier charges apply**.

Extra Benefits

Complimentary Travel Insurance

Travel with domestic and international insurance⁷ for you, your partner and your dependent children, when you pay for your return trip on your Card. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age-limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits).

Mobile Wallet

Apple Pay, Google Wallet and Samsung Pay

Complimentary Travel Insurance

Travel with domestic and international insurance⁷ for you, your partner and your dependent children, when you pay for your return trip on your Card. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age-limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits).

Mobile Wallet

Apple Pay, Google Wallet and Samsung Pay

READ MORE

American Express is offering up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points¹ for new American Express Card Members who apply for the American Express Velocity Platinum Card by 13 October 2026. T&Cs apply. New American Express Card Members only.

The bonus is split into two parts, with the first 70,000 bonus Velocity Points to be received after spending a minimum of $5,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months of approval, and an additional 30,000 bonus Velocity Points when you spend a further $5,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of your 2nd year Card Membership. T&Cs apply. New Card Members only.

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card has a $440 annual fee, with the benefits helping to offset this including a Complimentary Domestic Return Virgin Australia Flight⁷ between selected cities, Virgin Australia Lounge Access² every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia and two Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes³ for your companion.

This is still one of the highest Velocity Points-earning cards⁵ in the market and is handy for ongoing use for Virgin Australia frequent flyers and Velocity Points hunters.

The American Express Velocity Platinum is a Card to consider holding for the frequent Virgin flyer, especially for those who travel in Economy and can make good use of the included Virgin Australia Lounge Access^ every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia and the also for the complimentary return flight7.

Travel in Virgin Australia’s 737 Business Class using Velocity Points.

Digging into the benefits of the American Express Velocity Platinum Card

The American Express Velocity Platinum is the ideal Card for frequent Virgin Australia flyers, offering bonus points on Virgin Australia purchases and Virgin Australia Lounge Access every time you fly domestically with the airline.

Card Details

Card American Express Velocity Platinum
Loyalty program Velocity Frequent Flyer
Points earned from spend 1.25 Velocity Points earned per $1 on all eligible spend except for government bodies2

2.25 Velocity Points per $1 spent on selected Virgin Australia purchases2

0.5 Velocity Points per $1 on Government spend2
Points cap None
Earns points at ATO Yes (reduced earn rate of 0.5 point/$)
Travel benefits Each year:

Virgin Australia Lounge Access every time you fly with Virgin Australia3,

2 Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes4,

Complimentary Virgin Australia domestic return flight 5
Included insurances Travel Insurance7

Travel Inconvenience Cover7

Card Purchase Cover and Card Refund Cover7

(T&Cs)
Overseas transaction fee 3.5% of the converted amount
Mobile wallet Apple Pay, Google Wallet and Samsung Pay
Annual fee $440 p.a.

Earning Velocity points from spend

When using your card in Australia, you’ll receive 2.25 Velocity Points per dollar spent with Virgin Australia, and 1.25 Velocity Points per dollar on all other expenses except for government bodies where you will earn 0.5 Velocity Points per dollar spent.

Your Velocity Points will be swept over to your Velocity account on a monthly basis, and you can add up to 4 Additional Cards for no extra fee.

Complimentary Virgin Australia domestic return Economy Flight

With the American Express Velocity Platinum Card, you can also redeem the complimentary domestic return flight with Virgin Australia to selected cities each Card Membership year.

It differs depending on your departure airport. However, in a nutshell, it is to/from most cities within a couple of hours’ flight time of the departure airport. Use the online tool here for the full list of available destinations from each origin airport.

The free flight benefit could easily recoup your annual fee.

In all likelihood, the complimentary domestic flight will cover the cost of the annual fee of the card alone — or close to, at least.

Virgin Australia Lounge Access

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card comes with Virgin Australia Lounge Access2 every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia. Each membership year, you will also receive 2 complimentary Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes3 to treat friends or family to VA Lounge access, when travelling with you on a domestic Virgin Australia flight.

Virgin Australia Perth Lounge

If you don’t have Velocity status, this is a nice little perk which will see you enjoy their excellent domestic lounges.

Even if you do have Gold or Platinum status (and therefore, a guest allowance), you could still use the 2 single entry VA Guest Lounge Passes2 to bring extra guests in.

Status Credits

Another noteworthy ongoing benefit of the American Express Velocity Platinum Card is the Velocity Status Credits4.

Earn up to 100 Velocity Status Credits each year. Status Credits help you jump Velocity tier status and escape the crowds and skip the queues. Be awarded 50 Status Credits⁺ when you spend $25,000 on eligible purchases each membership year and a further 50 Status Credits when you spend another $25,000 in the same membership year.

This applies to both existing and new Amex Velocity Platinum Card Members and is a neat way of bumping up your Status Credits balance if you are on the hunt for Silver, Gold or Platinum Velocity status.

Status Credits are the key to unlocking elite Velocity Frequent Flyer perks.

American Express Plan It

American Express ‘Plan It’ allows Card Members to pay off eligible transactions or a portion of your balance in equal monthly instalments. You can choose between a 3, 6 or 12 month plan, and there’s no interest, but a fixed monthly fee applies to access this feature. The minimum plan amount is $1006.

Other Benefits

There is also a range of insurances, including domestic and international travel insurance8, which includes Travel Inconvenience Cover, when you use your Card to pay for your return trip. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits).

There are also retail insurances including Card Purchase Cover and Card Refund Cover% when you use the Card to pay for eligible items. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply.

The full insurance terms and conditions outlining the details of all the benefits included with the American Express Velocity Platinum Card can be found here. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits).

This guide references some of the benefits of insurance policies provided with this Card. You should read the terms and conditions and obtain independent professional advice before obtaining this product.

Mobile wallet integration

American Express Cards work with Apple Pay®, Google Wallet™ and Samsung Pay, meaning you can use this card on your smartphone for easier payments.

Read the Point Hacks guide to using Apple Pay or for using Google Wallet and Samsung Pay, including instructions on how to add your American Express card to those services.

With this feature set up, it means you could still use your NFC-enabled phone to make purchases with your American Express account, even if your physical card is lost or stolen and pending replacement.

Summing Up

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card is aimed at those looking to maximize their Velocity Points earned from spending, especially those who frequently travel with Virgin Australia.

The complimentary Virgin Australia domestic return flight, VA Lounge Access, two VA Guest Lounge Passes, Status Credits, insurances, and other perks make this a very compelling Card to have.



American Express is offering up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points¹ for new American Express Card Members who apply for the American Express Velocity Platinum Card by 13 October 2026. T&Cs apply. New American Express Card Members only.

The bonus is split into two parts, with the first 70,000 bonus Velocity Points to be received after spending a minimum of $5,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months of approval, and an additional 30,000 bonus Velocity Points when you spend a further $5,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of your 2nd year Card Membership. T&Cs apply. New Card Members only.

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card has a $440 annual fee, with the benefits helping to offset this including a Complimentary Domestic Return Virgin Australia Flight⁷ between selected cities, Virgin Australia Lounge Access² every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia and two Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes³ for your companion.

This is still one of the highest Velocity Points-earning cards⁵ in the market and is handy for ongoing use for Virgin Australia frequent flyers and Velocity Points hunters.

The American Express Velocity Platinum is a Card to consider holding for the frequent Virgin flyer, especially for those who travel in Economy and can make good use of the included Virgin Australia Lounge Access^ every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia and the also for the complimentary return flight7.

Travel in Virgin Australia’s 737 Business Class using Velocity Points.

Digging into the benefits of the American Express Velocity Platinum Card

The American Express Velocity Platinum is the ideal Card for frequent Virgin Australia flyers, offering bonus points on Virgin Australia purchases and Virgin Australia Lounge Access every time you fly domestically with the airline.

Card Details

Card American Express Velocity Platinum
Loyalty program Velocity Frequent Flyer
Points earned from spend 1.25 Velocity Points earned per $1 on all eligible spend except for government bodies2

2.25 Velocity Points per $1 spent on selected Virgin Australia purchases2

0.5 Velocity Points per $1 on Government spend2
Points cap None
Earns points at ATO Yes (reduced earn rate of 0.5 point/$)
Travel benefits Each year:

Virgin Australia Lounge Access every time you fly with Virgin Australia3,

2 Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes4,

Complimentary Virgin Australia domestic return flight 5
Included insurances Travel Insurance7

Travel Inconvenience Cover7

Card Purchase Cover and Card Refund Cover7

(T&Cs)
Overseas transaction fee 3.5% of the converted amount
Mobile wallet Apple Pay, Google Wallet and Samsung Pay
Annual fee $440 p.a.

Earning Velocity points from spend

When using your card in Australia, you’ll receive 2.25 Velocity Points per dollar spent with Virgin Australia, and 1.25 Velocity Points per dollar on all other expenses except for government bodies where you will earn 0.5 Velocity Points per dollar spent.

Your Velocity Points will be swept over to your Velocity account on a monthly basis, and you can add up to 4 Additional Cards for no extra fee.

Complimentary Virgin Australia domestic return Economy Flight

With the American Express Velocity Platinum Card, you can also redeem the complimentary domestic return flight with Virgin Australia to selected cities each Card Membership year.

It differs depending on your departure airport. However, in a nutshell, it is to/from most cities within a couple of hours’ flight time of the departure airport. Use the online tool here for the full list of available destinations from each origin airport.

The free flight benefit could easily recoup your annual fee.

In all likelihood, the complimentary domestic flight will cover the cost of the annual fee of the card alone — or close to, at least.

Virgin Australia Lounge Access

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card comes with Virgin Australia Lounge Access2 every time you fly domestically with Virgin Australia. Each membership year, you will also receive 2 complimentary Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes3 to treat friends or family to VA Lounge access, when travelling with you on a domestic Virgin Australia flight.

Virgin Australia Perth Lounge

If you don’t have Velocity status, this is a nice little perk which will see you enjoy their excellent domestic lounges.

Even if you do have Gold or Platinum status (and therefore, a guest allowance), you could still use the 2 single entry VA Guest Lounge Passes2 to bring extra guests in.

Status Credits

Another noteworthy ongoing benefit of the American Express Velocity Platinum Card is the Velocity Status Credits4.

Earn up to 100 Velocity Status Credits each year. Status Credits help you jump Velocity tier status and escape the crowds and skip the queues. Be awarded 50 Status Credits⁺ when you spend $25,000 on eligible purchases each membership year and a further 50 Status Credits when you spend another $25,000 in the same membership year.

This applies to both existing and new Amex Velocity Platinum Card Members and is a neat way of bumping up your Status Credits balance if you are on the hunt for Silver, Gold or Platinum Velocity status.

Status Credits are the key to unlocking elite Velocity Frequent Flyer perks.

American Express Plan It

American Express ‘Plan It’ allows Card Members to pay off eligible transactions or a portion of your balance in equal monthly instalments. You can choose between a 3, 6 or 12 month plan, and there’s no interest, but a fixed monthly fee applies to access this feature. The minimum plan amount is $1006.

Other Benefits

There is also a range of insurances, including domestic and international travel insurance8, which includes Travel Inconvenience Cover, when you use your Card to pay for your return trip. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits).

There are also retail insurances including Card Purchase Cover and Card Refund Cover% when you use the Card to pay for eligible items. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply.

The full insurance terms and conditions outlining the details of all the benefits included with the American Express Velocity Platinum Card can be found here. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits).

This guide references some of the benefits of insurance policies provided with this Card. You should read the terms and conditions and obtain independent professional advice before obtaining this product.

Mobile wallet integration

American Express Cards work with Apple Pay®, Google Wallet™ and Samsung Pay, meaning you can use this card on your smartphone for easier payments.

Read the Point Hacks guide to using Apple Pay or for using Google Wallet and Samsung Pay, including instructions on how to add your American Express card to those services.

With this feature set up, it means you could still use your NFC-enabled phone to make purchases with your American Express account, even if your physical card is lost or stolen and pending replacement.

Summing Up

The American Express Velocity Platinum Card is aimed at those looking to maximize their Velocity Points earned from spending, especially those who frequently travel with Virgin Australia.

The complimentary Virgin Australia domestic return flight, VA Lounge Access, two VA Guest Lounge Passes, Status Credits, insurances, and other perks make this a very compelling Card to have.



Read More Read Less

Eligibility Criteria

These are the minimum requirements to be eligible to apply for this Card. Other additional eligibility criteria, such as proof of income, will generally be required later on.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I use my complimentary return flight to?

You can use your complimentary return flight to most cities within a couple of hours from the departure airport (such as Sydney – Cairns). Use the online tool here for the full list of available destinations from each origin airport.

Can additional cardholders be added and does their spend earn points?

Yes, you can add up to four Additional Cards (at no extra fee) and their eligible purchases contribute to the primary cardholder’s Velocity Points.

What lounge access benefits are included?

The card offers the Primary Card Member access to Virgin Australia domestic lounges every time you fly domestically with them, along with two Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes each year.

Who is eligible for the bonus Velocity Points on this card?

New Card Members only (those who haven’t held any Amex card issued by American Express Australia in the past 18 months) and who meet the minimum spend requirement.

Does this card include travel insurance?

Yes, complimentary cover is available when you pay for your trip with the card, including baggage, delay and accident insurance⁷. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age-limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits).

Terms and Conditions

Cards are offered, issued, and administered by American Express Australia Limited ABN 92 108 952 085, Australian Credit Licence No. 291313.

American Express income and credit approval criteria applies. Subject to Terms and Conditions. Interest rates, fees and charges apply. All interest rates are quoted as an Annual Percentage Rate. All information, including fees, charges and interest rates are correct as at 5 August 2026 and are subject to change.

 

1. Up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points

To earn up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points, you must apply online by 13 October 2026, be approved, and meet the following criteria. You’ll receive 70,000 bonus Velocity Points when you spend $5,000 or more on eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 3 months from the Card approval date. To receive an additional 30,000 bonus Velocity Points, you need to remain an American Express Velocity Platinum Card Member and spend $5,000 or more on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of your second year of Card Membership. 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 after the spend criteria has been met in both your first and second years of Card Membership for the bonus points to be credited to your Account.  You will still be eligible to earn the additional 30,000 bonus Velocity Points in your second year of Card Membership even if you did not meet the $5,000 minimum spend criteria to receive the 70,000 bonus Velocity Points in the first year of membership.  This offer is only available to new American Express Card Members. 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 eligible for this offer. Velocity Points are earned in accordance with the American Express Velocity Cards Points Terms and Conditions available here and are subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Velocity Frequent Flyer program available here. $440 annual Card fee applies. This advertised offer is not applicable or valid in conjunction with any other advertised or promotional offer. Information is correct as at 5 August 2026.

2. Velocity Points

As long as your Account remains current and in good standing and you must be a member of the Velocity Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Velocity Points. Velocity Points are earned in accordance with the American Express Velocity Cards Points Terms and Conditions available at americanexpress.com.au/VelocityPointsTerms, and are subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Velocity Frequent Flyer program available at experience.velocityfrequentflyer.com/member-support/terms-conditions. Exclusions apply. Eligible purchases do not include Card fees and charges, for example annual fees, interest, late payment fees, cash advances, balance transfers, fees for traveller’s cheques and foreign currency conversion. These do not earn Velocity Points. For the full list of exclusions, please refer to the American Express Velocity Cards Points Terms and Conditions. Certain transactions will earn 0.5 points per dollar with Merchants classified as; government, including the Australian Taxation Office, the Australian Postal Corporation (Australia Post), federal/state and local government bodies. Industry specific earn rate may apply when you use a payment account, payment aggregator, services of a third party or online retailers that sell goods for another merchant. For example, a payment made to local government bodies processed through payment aggregator may earn rates at the government earn rate. Velocity Points earned on Virgin Australia spend are only valid for purchases made in Australia.

3. Virgin Australia Lounge Access

 Virgin Australia Lounge Access: The American Express Velocity Platinum Card Virgin Australia Lounge Access is subject to the American Express Velocity Platinum Card Benefits Terms and Conditions. The Virgin Australia Lounge Access provides the Primary Card Member with access to Virgin Australia lounges at Australian domestic airports whenever they are flying on a Virgin Australia operated domestic flight on the same day. To qualify for Virgin Australia Lounge Access, your Card Account with American Express must be in good standing. American Express Velocity Platinum Primary Card Members will receive 12 months of lounge access on your Velocity membership. Enrol via your online American Express Account. This is your benefit anniversary date. After enrolling, activate the VA Lounge Access by making an Eligible Transaction on your American Express Velocity Platinum Card. Eligible Transaction does not include annual Card fees, cash advances, interest, balance transfers, fees and charges for traveller’s cheques and foreign currencies. After 12 months, at each subsequent benefit anniversary, make an Eligible Transaction on your Velocity Platinum Card to reactivate the VA Lounge Access. Please allow up to 7 days for the benefit to be processed on to the Primary Card Member’s Velocity membership. The Primary Card Member must provide their Velocity Frequent Flyer membership details to Virgin Australia lounge staff and present same day boarding pass on a Virgin Australia flight. Additional Card Members are not eligible. Virgin Australia lounge access is subject to space availability. Virgin Australia lounge is owned and operated by Virgin Australia Airlines Pty. Ltd. in selected domestic airports in accordance with Virgin Australia lounge Terms and Conditions, available at virginaustralia.com/lounge and as amended from time to time.

4. Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes

Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes are subject to the American Express Velocity Platinum Card Benefits Terms and Conditions. Two single entry passes to the Virgin Australia lounge will be activated on the Primary Card Member’s Velocity Frequent Flyer membership account annually, on or after each anniversary of membership. Additional Card members are not eligible. Complimentary single entry Virgin Australia Guest Lounge Passes are not transferable, but may be used to enable other people (who are travelling with the Primary Card Member) to gain access to the lounge. The Virgin Australia lounge is operated by Virgin Australia Airlines Pty. Ltd. in selected domestic airports in accordance with the Virgin Australia Lounge Terms and Conditions, available at virginaustralia.com/lounge and as amended from time to time. Visit the Virgin Australia website for up-to-date information on Virgin Australia’s Lounge network.

5. Complimentary Domestic Return Virgin Australia Flight

The complimentary domestic economy Virgin Australia return flight is only available between selected Australian cities and is available for booking by American Express Velocity Platinum Primary Card Members each year after the anniversary of your Card Membership. All flights are subject to availability and neither Virgin Australia nor American Express guarantees that seats or tickets will be available on the dates or at the times you may wish to fly. Seat availability may be limited to certain dates and/or flights and it may be more difficult to book seats around public holidays, school holidays or special events. Some flights may not have any seats available for redemption. Route availability is subject to change without notice. All travel is subject to the American Express Velocity Platinum Card Benefits Terms and Conditions available here and travel is subject to Virgin Australia Conditions of Carriage available Conditionsofcarriage/VirginAustralia.com..

6. Velocity Frequent Flyer Status Credits

Velocity Frequent Flyer Status Credits are subject to the American Express Velocity Platinum Card Benefits Terms and Conditions. 50 Velocity Frequent Flyer Status Credits will be awarded when you spend $25,000 on Eligible Spend within your membership year, and a further 50 Status Credits when you spend another $25,000 on Eligible Spend within the same Membership year. Membership year is defined as commencing upon Card activation and renews on the day of your Card activation each subsequent year. Eligible Spend does not include Card fees and charges, for example annual fees, interest, late or dishonoured payments, cash advances, balance transfers, traveller’s cheques and foreign currency conversion. Please allow up to 2 weeks after you meet the minimum spend requirement for the Status Credits to be credited to your Velocity account. In addition to the Status Credits earned with this American Express Velocity Platinum Card offer, to upgrade or maintain membership status, Velocity members must earn a percentage of their Status Credits on eligible Virgin Australia marketed and/or operated flights, flown by the member. To find out more about Status Credits and the amount of Status Credits required to be earned on eligible Virgin Australia marketed and/or operated flights, flown by the member for Velocity membership levels please visit velocityfrequentflyer.com/the-basics/status.

7. Complimentary Insurance

Velocity Platinum 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 Velocity Platinum 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 Velocity Platinum 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.

8. Plan It® Instalments

You can create an Instalment Plan as long as your account is in good standing. We may withdraw this offer, prevent you from creating any new Instalment Plans or cancel any of your existing Instalment Plan(s) at any time if your Card Account is overdue, or if you do not comply with your Card Conditions. The minimum Plan amount is AUD$100. We may also limit the amount that can be transferred to an Instalment Plan. You will be charged a Monthly Plan Fee for each Instalment Plan created (unless a promotional plan is available). This fee will be charged each month your Instalment Plan is active and will be disclosed to you at the time of creating your Instalment Plan. Each Instalment Plan will begin from the date it is successfully created, as communicated to you in your Online Account. Payment of your first Monthly Instalment will be due in your next payment cycle. You may request to cancel your Instalment Plan(s) at any time through your Online Account or the Amex App. Any billed Monthly Plan Fees will remain payable, but no further Monthly Plan Fees will be billed after cancellation is effective. As cancellation can take 24-48 hours to process (“Processing Time”), you may be charged a further monthly plan fee after requesting cancellation if the Processing Time occurs on your payment date. View the full Plan It® Instalment Terms and Conditions here.

9. Interest Free Period

You will have up to 55 days interest free on purchases provided you pay the full closing balance of your monthly statement by the due date each month. There is no interest free period on balance transfers or if you carry forward a balance from the previous statement period. The total of interest free days will depend on when you make the purchase and when your statement is issued.

** Reward Seat fares

Reward Seat fares are based on Reward Seat availability on Virgin Australia and partner airlines for the selected route (correct as at 22 July 2026). The base fare is payable in Velocity Points, with applicable taxes, fees, and carrier charges payable in addition to the Points redeemed.

Reward Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or during peak travel periods. Bookings must be made via the Virgin Australia website. Reward Seat bookings and associated charges do not earn Velocity Points. A payment surcharge may apply.

Changes or cancellations can be made for a fee and any fare difference, provided they are requested at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure. For international partner airlines, voluntary changes may require cancellation and rebooking on a new ticket. Where eligible, the original ticket value will be refunded.

Some flights may be operated by partner airlines, and different baggage allowances or conditions may apply. For full fare rules and conditions, visit velocityfrequentflyer.com.

Quick Links Quick links category Quick Links Credit Cards Guides Loyalty Programs Deals Resources https://www.pointhacks.com.au/ Point Hacks® is published by Point Hacks Australia Pty Ltd (ACN 622 987 160), a corporate authorised credit representative (Number: 504786) of MSC Advisory Pty Ltd ACN 607 459 441 (Australian Credit License: 480649). Copyright © 2025 Point Hacks Australia Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

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American Express Velocity Platinum: points, flight and lounge benefits

Source review: 17 September 2026. This information is general in nature. It does not take your personal circumstances into account. Fees, benefits and eligibility conditions can change; check the issuer's current terms before applying or relying on a benefit.

How the card earns Velocity Points

The American Express Velocity Platinum is built around direct earning into Velocity Frequent Flyer. The Point Hacks product guide records 2.25 Velocity Points per eligible dollar on selected Virgin Australia purchases, 1.25 points per dollar on other eligible everyday spending and 0.5 points per dollar at government bodies. There is no points cap in the reviewed material. That makes the card easy to understand for someone who already wants Velocity Points, but it does not provide the transfer choices of a flexible bank or American Express Membership Rewards currency.

The ongoing annual fee recorded in the guide is $440. The practical question is therefore whether the recurring travel benefits fit journeys the cardholder would otherwise buy. A high points rate alone does not cancel the fee, and the 3.5% overseas transaction fee means the card's points return should be weighed against the extra cost of foreign-currency spending. The card supports major mobile wallets and allows up to four additional cards without another annual card fee, which can help consolidate household spending into the same Velocity account.

The annual Virgin Australia return flight

The complimentary domestic return flight is the most distinctive recurring benefit. It is available once per membership year for the primary cardholder, subject to the eligible routes, fare inventory, booking channel and other conditions set by American Express and Virgin Australia. It is better understood as a restricted flight certificate than as a cash-equivalent credit: its value depends on whether an eligible route and seat match an actual trip. The guide to maximising the Velocity Platinum treats the flight as part of the annual value calculation, alongside points and lounge access.

Before relying on the benefit, check the current route list, booking deadline, travel period, change and cancellation rules, and whether taxes or other charges remain payable. A flight that expires unused has no realised value. Conversely, someone who regularly pays cash for an eligible Virgin Australia return trip may recover a meaningful part of the annual fee without having to assign an aggressive value to points.

Virgin Australia lounge access and guest passes

The primary cardholder can access Virgin Australia domestic lounges when departing on an eligible Virgin Australia flight, subject to enrolment and the current access rules. The card also includes two Virgin Australia guest lounge passes each year. These are different benefits: the primary holder's access is described as ongoing when the travel conditions are met, while each guest pass is a single-use entitlement for another traveller. The Virgin Australia lounge overview explains locations and general entry conditions, but the card terms remain the authority for who can enter and on which itinerary.

Older material may associate this card with visits to the Sydney and Melbourne American Express Centurion Lounges. The current American Express lounge guide says the Velocity Platinum lost Centurion access during an earlier refresh. It should therefore not be counted as a current benefit. This is an important example of why a recent page modification date does not automatically make every historical statement about a product current.

Earning Velocity Status Credits from spending

Card spending can also produce up to 100 Velocity Status Credits in a membership year. The reviewed sources record 50 Status Credits after $25,000 of eligible annual spend and another 50 after a further $25,000, for $50,000 in total spend. These credits can support progress towards or retention of Velocity status, but they do not replace the other requirements of the Velocity program. Readers should check the current definition of eligible spend, the posting timetable and the relevant Velocity status rules before planning around them.

This benefit is most relevant to a flyer who is already close enough to a status threshold for the credits to change the outcome. Spending extra merely to trigger Status Credits can be poor value, particularly if it displaces spend from a better card or encourages purchases that would not otherwise be made. The Velocity Frequent Flyer guide provides the broader program context needed to assess what a tier would actually deliver.

Introductory offers and eligibility

The product page may display a time-limited bonus offer, sometimes divided between the first and second years of card membership. Because the amount, deadline and minimum-spend structure can change, this mirror does not freeze a promotional total. Check how much spend is required in each period, when each instalment is awarded, and whether keeping the card into the second year is necessary. A headline total should not be treated as an immediate first-year benefit.

The reviewed guide lists minimum application criteria including being at least 18, meeting residency or visa requirements, and having an acceptable credit history. Bonus eligibility is a separate test. The American Express bonus-eligibility guide explains the usual restriction for people who hold, or recently held, a primary Australian-issued American Express card. Applicants should read the exact offer terms shown when they apply because product approval does not guarantee the bonus.

Insurance, instalments and overall fit

The card includes travel and purchase-related insurance subject to activation rules, limits and exclusions. The American Express travel-insurance guide explains the general framework, including the need on many products to pay for an eligible return trip with the card. It covers several cards, so the Velocity Platinum policy document should be checked for the insured people, age limits, pre-existing conditions and payment requirements that apply to this product. The Plan It feature can divide eligible purchases into fixed monthly instalments, but a monthly plan fee applies and it should not be described as free finance.

The card is easiest to justify for a regular Virgin Australia traveller who can use the annual return flight and lounge access, values direct Velocity earning and can reach a status-credit threshold through ordinary spending. It is less compelling for someone who wants airline-transfer flexibility, rarely flies on eligible Virgin Australia services or would pay the annual fee while leaving the travel benefits unused. The calculation should be based on realistic use over a full membership year, excluding an introductory bonus that may never repeat.

Detailed card snapshot and dated offer

Feature Reviewed position at 17 September 2026
Annual fee $440 a year
Everyday earn 1.25 Velocity Points per eligible $1
Selected Virgin Australia spend 2.25 Velocity Points per eligible $1 in Australia
Government spend 0.5 Velocity Points per $1
Points cap None in the reviewed guide
Annual flight One Virgin Australia domestic return Economy flight between selected cities each membership year
Lounge package Primary-cardholder Virgin Australia lounge access when flying domestically with Virgin Australia, plus two guest passes
Status Credits 50 after $25,000 eligible annual spend and another 50 after a further $25,000
Foreign transaction fee 3.5% of the converted amount
Purchase rate 23.99% p.a. in the reviewed guide
Interest-free period Up to 55 days, subject to the account terms
Additional cards Up to four without another annual card fee

At the review date, the product guide displayed up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points for new American Express card members applying by 13 October 2026. The first 70,000 points required $5,000 of eligible purchases in the first three months. Another 30,000 required a further $5,000 in the first three months of the second membership year. The headline therefore spans two annual-fee periods. A reader should test whether retaining the card and meeting a second $5,000 target fits ordinary spending rather than valuing all 100,000 points as a first-year benefit.

The annual flight in practical terms

The complimentary flight is a return Virgin Australia Economy itinerary, not an unrestricted airfare credit. Eligible destinations depend on the departure city and are generally shorter domestic routes shown in American Express's flight-route tool. Availability, booking deadlines, travel dates, route changes and fare rules apply. The benefit cannot be assumed to cover any Virgin Australia route or any seat visible for sale.

The Velocity Platinum comparison says the flight becomes available after the first card spend in the membership year. KB material also says the complimentary itinerary does not earn Velocity Points or Status Credits and cannot itself be upgraded to Business Class. A Velocity Platinum member may still receive the normal Economy X privilege attached to that status, but the card benefit does not create airline status.

Value should be measured against a trip the cardholder would otherwise book. A $440 retail fare does not create $440 of value if the eligible route is inconvenient, the preferred date has no benefit inventory or a cheaper sale fare is available. Conversely, a regular Virgin Australia traveller who can replace a planned cash booking may recover a substantial part of the annual fee before counting points or lounge access.

Lounge access without the Centurion benefit

The primary cardholder's Virgin Australia lounge access applies when travelling domestically with Virgin Australia under the current card conditions. The two annual guest passes are separate, single-use benefits for companions travelling with the cardholder. The Virgin Australia lounge guide gives the network context, but same-day flight, operating lounge and card-specific rules still control entry.

Some KB synthesis incorrectly reintroduced two Centurion Lounge visits. The latest American Express lounge guide explicitly says Velocity Platinum lost Centurion access during an earlier refresh. Those visits must not be included in a current valuation. This card's lounge case is centred on Virgin Australia domestic travel; it does not include Priority Pass, Plaza Premium or the global Centurion access of the personal and business Platinum charge cards.

Status Credits, points and spending examples

Status Credits determine Velocity tier progress and are different from redeemable Velocity Points. The card awards 50 Status Credits after $25,000 of eligible spend during a membership year, then another 50 after total eligible spend reaches $50,000. These credits can help only when the member also satisfies Velocity's other tier requirements. Spending an extra dollar merely to cross a threshold can be uneconomic if it causes unnecessary purchases or displaces spend from a better card.

Example annual spend Velocity Points from ordinary 1.25-point spend Card Status Credits
$20,000 25,000 0
$25,000 31,250 50
$50,000 62,500 100

The points examples exclude Virgin Australia and government categories, bonus points and excluded transactions. Selected Virgin Australia purchases earn more; government payments earn less. Points sweep monthly to the linked Velocity account, so the cardholder does not retain a flexible bank currency. This is convenient for a committed Velocity collector but removes the option to transfer later to Qantas, KrisFlyer or another program.

At $20,000 of ordinary annual spend, the card's extra 0.25 Velocity Point per dollar over a one-point card produces 5,000 additional points. That incremental earn alone is unlikely to justify a large fee difference. The annual flight, lounge access and realistic status-credit use are therefore central to the renewal decision.

Insurance, Plan It and payment costs

The product guide lists domestic and international travel insurance, Travel Inconvenience Cover, Card Purchase Cover and Card Refund Cover. Travel cover requires an eligible return trip to be paid with the card. Age limits, pre-existing conditions, trip length, covered people, excesses and points-booking treatment depend on the Velocity Platinum insurance terms. A benefit heading is not evidence that a particular claim will be covered.

Plan It can divide eligible transactions or part of a balance into three, six or twelve monthly payments. It charges a fixed monthly fee and requires a minimum plan amount of $100. It is therefore not cost-free finance. The 23.99% purchase rate and 3.5% foreign-currency fee can also overwhelm the value of points. On a $1,000 foreign-currency purchase, the conversion fee alone is $35.

Practical questions answered

Does the card include Centurion Lounge visits?

No. The current American Express lounge guide says Velocity Platinum lost Centurion Lounge access during an earlier product refresh. Its lounge proposition instead centres on eligible Virgin Australia domestic lounge access for the primary holder and two single-use guest passes, each with separate conditions.

Is the annual flight available on every Virgin Australia route?

No. It is restricted to selected domestic city pairs, eligible fare inventory and the benefit's booking process. Search the live route tool before assigning value, and compare available times and taxes with the flight you would otherwise buy. A route that does not match real travel plans has little personal value.

Does the complimentary flight earn Velocity Points or Status Credits?

The reviewed KB says it does not earn redeemable Velocity Points or Status Credits. Existing airline status may still provide benefits such as priority services or baggage where the fare is eligible, but the flight itself should not be counted toward earning or retaining a tier.

Can an additional cardholder claim a separate annual flight?

No. The account receives one complimentary return flight per membership year for the primary card benefit, rather than one flight for every additional card. Additional-card spending can contribute points to the account but does not multiply the annual flight or the spend-based Status Credit caps.

Is lounge access unlimited for the primary holder?

The reviewed guide describes access whenever the enrolled primary cardholder flies domestically with Virgin Australia, subject to same-day travel, lounge operating rules and capacity. It is not a general lounge membership for travel on other airlines, and additional cardholders do not automatically receive the same unlimited entry.

What are the two guest passes for?

Each pass provides one eligible Virgin Australia lounge visit for a companion travelling with the cardholder on an eligible domestic itinerary. They are separate from the primary holder's enrolled access, are single-use and can expire. Check that the lounge, flight and guest meet the current pass rules.

Does spending $25,000 create Velocity status?

No. Reaching the reviewed threshold awards 50 Status Credits, not an airline tier. The member must still meet Velocity's current total Status Credit, eligible-sector and review-period requirements. The card can help close a gap, but it should not encourage spending that would not otherwise occur.

Are the 100,000 introductory points all earned in year one?

No. The reviewed offer splits 70,000 points into the first membership year and 30,000 into the first three months of the second year after another spending target. Receiving the full total therefore requires keeping the card into year two and paying the applicable renewal fee.

Are points earning and Status Credits capped in the same way?

No. Redeemable Velocity Points are described as uncapped on eligible spending in the reviewed guide. Spend-based Status Credits have separate thresholds and a maximum of 100 per membership year, so spending beyond the second threshold can keep earning points without producing more card-awarded Status Credits.

Is the card strong for overseas spending?

Usually not on rewards alone. The reviewed 3.5% foreign-currency fee can be worth far more than the Velocity Points earned, especially on large purchases. Compare the fee with the value of points and with a card that charges no foreign-currency fee before using it abroad.

A three-period value test

Assess the promotional first year, the second year containing the deferred bonus, and a normal renewal year separately. In a normal year, the decisive questions are whether the annual flight replaces a real paid trip, whether Virgin Australia lounge access will be used, whether ordinary spending naturally crosses a Status Credit threshold and whether the balance is paid without interest. The card is strongest when all four conditions line up and weakest when the benefits prompt extra spending or expire unused.

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