Members can now accumulate status credits without flying, thanks to Qantas reinventing its loyalty strategy. This development bodes well for Qantas Frequent Flyers and further testifies to the evolution of ground-side partnerships in airline programs. The airline is giving away 110 status credits from everyday purchases before the year runs out.
Qantas now awards 110 status credits from everyday purchases—no flights needed!
What Does The New Qantas Offer Include?
The program fast-tracks the member’s annual tier status while building up the balances of their Lifetime Status Credit. To activate the offer, members will have to act by 31 October 2025 through the Qantas website and, once activated, spend Qantas Points through any of the eight categories before 31 December 2025.
They are Cards and Banking, Insurance, Utilities and Services, Hotels and Travel, Fuel and Cars, Food and Wine, Retail and Shopping, plus Leisure and Entertainment. Qantas Loyalty CEO Andrew Glance said that it was the first big ground status program and that the airline wished to reward its members in both the air and on the ground.
How Many Status Credits Can You Earn?
The 110 status credits present a maximum status discount. Here’s the breakdown: 20 credits for every 1,000 Qantas Points from Cards & Banking, Insurance, or Utilities & Services, and 10 credits for every 1,000 Qantas Points from the remaining five other categories. A category can count only once towards crediting status, so the total maximum benefit inevitably remains small.
Credits typically get posted to one’s account within six to eight weeks after the points have been credited thereto. To understand the scale, Silver requires 300 credits, while Gold requires 700. Thus, the extra credits of 110 might close the gap for many members.
Why Did Qantas Introduce Ground Status Credits?
Over the last few years, Qantas has had its fair share of public scrutiny. Recently, it was slapped with a $90 million fine, only to add to the brand’s pile of difficulties. The airline, however, is fighting back by amplifying its engagement and rewards platforms.
Two-thirds of Qantas Points are being earned on the ground already, Andrew Glance said, and by embracing this trend, Qantas is aligning its loyalty program with customer behaviour in terms of spending.
The new system is being described as appealing more to “frequent buyers” rather than “frequent flyers.” This is also a worldwide trend where airlines reward lifestyle engagement.
Earn up to 110 Qantas status credits: 20/10 per 1,000 points by category
Will This Change Benefit All Members Equally?
Credits will not be gained equally by the members. A frequent flyer member might see the credits as rather small. Or, those members who are more involved with Qantas partners than flights may benefit more.
For instance, heavy credit card users or online shoppers might find this arrangement to be of great benefit. Regional availability will differ because not all categories are equally available outside Australia. In any case, Qantas is seeking to reward both travellers and non-travellers.
How Does This Affect Frequent Flyer Tiers?
Ground credits will not be arbitrated in preference for flight credits: The four-flight rule remains a crucially important element for status retention, so members still have to take eligible flights of Qantas or of Jetstar.
The ground scheme complements flying activity, rewarding customers in their respective tier more quickly. Also, recent Qantas promotions offered double status credits and bonus credits for loyalty as well. Together, these signs point to a broader change in how loyalty is recognised.
What Does This Mean For Airline Loyalty Programs?
Qantas has, therefore, set a regional benchmark for others to aspire to. This shows that airlines can increase engagement beyond simply providing air travel. This model may appeal to a new set of customers who value rewards yet do not travel often.
Another good thing for Qantas is that it aids in the retention of loyalty, currently under bombardment by regulatory and reputational challenges. Other global airlines may observe and replicate such hybrid structures.
FAQs
Q1: How many status credits can members earn without flying?
Members may earn a maximum of 110 status credits with the current offer.
Q2: Do credits earned on the ground count towards Lifetime Status?
Yes. By ground-earned credits, members mean either credits that contribute to annual or Lifetime credit balances.
Q3: Does a member still need to fly to attain a tier?
Yes. Members still need to complete four eligible Qantas or Jetstar flights minimum within a membership year.
Q4: Who can gain more from this scheme?
Frequent purchase of a wide array of Qantas partners could include banking, shopping, and insurance.
