The lowdown.
About Bendigo Bank credit cards
Bendigo Bank may not be one of Australia’s Big Four banks, but it holds its own with a strong range of credit card options. From cards offering rewards and Qantas Points to balance transfers and low-rate deals, there’s something for most financial needs. What sets Bendigo Bank credit cards apart is their unique approach to interest: it’s charged from the statement date, not the purchase date. This can save you up to 50% on interest costs compared to typical credit cards, making them a standout choice for savvy spenders.
Types of Bendigo Bank credit cards
Bendigo Bank provides a variety of credit cards tailored to different lifestyles and goals. Here’s a breakdown:
- Business credit cards: The Bendigo Bank Business Credit Card provides global acceptance, multiple cards with individual limits, and flexible billing for business expenses. For rewards, the Qantas Business Credit Card earns points per $1 spent.
- Frequent flyer credit cards: The Bendigo Bank Qantas Platinum Credit Card earns 0.6 Qantas Points per $1 spent (capped at 20,000 points monthly). It includes free Qantas Frequent Flyer membership (a $99.50 saving) and complimentary insurance, with a $149 annual fee.
- Low rate credit cards: The Bendigo Bank Bright Credit Card offers a competitive 11.99% p.a. variable interest rate on purchases, sitting nicely within the typical low-rate range of 8% to 15% p.a. Unlike most cards, interest only kicks in from the statement date, meaning you’ll pay less interest if you don’t clear your balance monthly.
- Rewards credit cards: With the Bendigo Bank Platinum Rewards Credit Card, you earn 1.5 Bendigo Rewards points per $1 spent on eligible purchases. Redeem these points for gift cards, homewares, travel gear, tech, and more via the Bendigo Bank Rewards store.
- No annual fee credit cards: The Bendigo Bank Ready Credit Card boasts a $0 annual fee for life, 0% international transaction fees, and free travel insurance. Its 19.99% p.a. interest rate is on the higher side, but it’s comparable to other no-fee cards and suits those who pay off their balance each month.
- Platinum credit cards: Choose between the Platinum Rewards Credit Card or the Qantas Platinum Credit Card. Both offer complimentary purchase and overseas travel insurance. While they lack extras like lounge access, they’re solid options for regular spenders.
Benefits of Bendigo Bank credit cards
Bendigo Bank credit cards come packed with perks to suit a range of needs:
- Interest savings: Interest starts from the statement date, not the purchase date, giving you interest-free days even if you carry a balance. Pay by the due date, and you dodge interest entirely—unlike most cards that charge from the purchase date.
- Balance transfers: Shift debt from another credit card to a Bendigo Bank card, often with low or 0% introductory rates. This can cut interest costs while you pay down your balance.
- Rewards: Earn Bendigo Rewards points for spending, redeemable for gifts, tech, home items, and more. Frequent flyers can earn Qantas Points with the Qantas Platinum Credit Card.
- Complimentary insurance: Enjoy perks like overseas travel insurance, purchase protection, extended warranties, and best price guarantees on select cards.
- Mobile and contactless payments: Link your card to Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, or Garmin Pay for quick, easy payments on the go.
- Digital credit card: Get a virtual card via Apple Pay as soon as you’re approved, letting you start spending before your physical card arrives.
- Security features: Rest easy with 24/7 fraud monitoring, zero liability for fraudulent transactions, and the option to block your card instantly via the app or online banking.
Eligibility criteria of Bendigo Bank credit cards
To qualify for a Bendigo Bank credit card, you’ll need to tick these boxes:
- Age: Be at least 18 years old.
- Australian residency: Open to permanent residents and citizens. Temporary residents with a 188, 457, or 489 visa can apply if they’ve sought permanent residency and have at least 12 months left on their visa.
- Credit history: You must not be bankrupt or insolvent.
- Regular income: You need a steady income from employment or accepted sources like Austudy, Family Tax Benefit A and B, age/disability/veterans pensions, or a carer pension (for dependent children).
How to apply for a Bendigo Bank credit card
Applying for a Bendigo Bank credit card is pretty simple, whether online, by phone, or in-branch. Here’s the process:
- Check eligibility: Confirm you meet the residency, income, credit history, and age criteria.
- Gather Information: Full name, date of birth, marital status, number of dependents, driver’s licence, Australian passport, or Medicare card.
- Income details: Employment status, employer name and contact, plus proof of income (e.g., payslips, bank statements, or a Centrelink letter) for the last 3 months.
- Submit application: Complete the online form in about 15 minutes, or apply via phone or at a branch.
- Approval and activation: Once approved, set up a virtual card via Apple Pay for instant use, with your physical card arriving soon after.
Credit cards similar to Bendigo Bank
Credit cards with similar rates and features to Bendigo Bank cards:
