Qantas updates frequent flyer program to include retail spending

Qantas has announced an overhaul to its frequent flyer program, allowing members to earn status credits through retail spending rather than exclusively through flying. The changes, which were first announced in August, are scheduled to take effect on December 8.

Status credits determine a member's tier—Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum—which dictates access to lounges and other perks. Under the new system, members can earn up to 140 status credits annually through ground-based spending across the airline's ecosystem of 700 partners.

While the move expands the ability to earn credits to a broader audience, it coincides with increases in the number of credits required to retain existing status. Analysts suggest the change offers a significant opportunity for frequent travelers to supplement their credits, though it may offer less value to occasional flyers.