HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card Australia scores you Star Alliance Gold, points and lounge access

The HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card is a solid pick for frequent flyers based in Australia who want Star Alliance Gold, points and lounge access without immediate fees. Australians can earn Gold status after meeting a clear spend target, collect points on everyday purchases and tap into global lounges — ideal if you travel for work or holidays.

Standout travel perks and introductory offer

With the HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card you secure Star Alliance Gold after $4,000 in eligible spend in the first 90 days, plus $0 annual fee in year one. Those Gold benefits include global lounge access, priority boarding and extra checked baggage on many Star Alliance carriers.

Everyday travel perks make this card appealing in Australia: complimentary domestic and international travel insurance, and 0% interest on some flight bookings during promotional periods. If you fly often with partners like Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand or United, the lounge access and priority services are immediately useful.

How points and status work

The card earns Star Alliance Points on eligible spend — typically 1 Star Alliance Point per $1 up to $3,000 per month, dropping thereafter to a lower rate. Points convert to frequent flyer miles with partners, commonly at a conversion rate such as 0.8 points to 1 mile, so plan transfers carefully for best value.

Maintaining status has clear thresholds: you can keep Star Alliance Gold by meeting annual spend targets (for example, higher yearly spend can retain Gold). Treat the HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card as part of a broader points strategy — use for groceries, bills and work expenses to stack points quickly in Australia.

Fees, rates and what’s not free

After the first year the annual fee jumps to $450 p.a., so factor that into your cost-benefit analysis. Other charges include a 3% foreign transaction fee and cash advance fees; purchase interest sits around 19.99% p.a., so this card is best if you pay statements in full each month to avoid interest erosion of rewards.

The complimentary travel insurance is a real plus for Aussies who travel regularly, covering medical and some trip interruptions when eligible. Still, the annual fee after year one and the foreign transaction fee mean the card suits those who can maximise points, lounge access and Gold perks to offset costs.

Is it right for you and how to maximise value

To apply in Australia you typically need to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, 18+, with a minimum income around $75,000 and a healthy credit history. The online application via HSBC is straightforward — have proof of income and ID ready for a quick decision.

Maximise the HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card by putting regular bills, petrol, groceries and work travel on the card during the first 90 days to hit the $4,000 target. Transfer points strategically to partner programs, book long-haul flights during transfer promos and always pay the balance to keep rewards genuine value.