Qantas Points Devaluation Hits in August 2025—But There’s a Silver Lining

Redemption Rates Are Going Up

Big changes are coming to Qantas Classic Flight Rewards starting 5 August 2025. If you’ve been eyeing a premium cabin redemption, now’s the time to act—because prices are heading north. Economy redemptions will rise by 5–15%, while Business and First Class awards are taking an even bigger hit, up to 20% more on long-haul routes.

Here’s how some of the changes break down:

• Sydney → Melbourne (Business Class): 18,400 → 19,300 points (+5%)
• Sydney → Perth (Business Class): 41,500 → 43,600 points (+5%)
• Sydney → Singapore (Business Class): 68,400 → 82,100 points (+20%)
• Sydney → London (Business Class): 144,600 → 166,300 points (+15%)
• Sydney → Los Angeles (First Class): 162,800 → 195,400 points (+20%)
• Los Angeles → Sydney (Business Class): 108,400 → 130,100 points (+20%)

These are not just minor bumps—they’re significant jumps that can wipe out months of point-saving.

But wait, there's more: carrier surcharges are also rising.

• Sydney → Melbourne (Business Class): from ~$55 to ~$76
• Sydney → London (Business Class): from $473 to $648 (+35%)

So, whether you're flying to Perth or planning that dream First Class trip to LA, the cost in both points and cash will soon take a noticeable leap.

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New Perks and Sweetspots:

Despite the redeeming news being muted, there are some notable upgrades:

• Earn up to 25% more Qantas Points on domestic flights from July 2025, with premium cabin passengers no longer capped on status bonuses
• Jetstar short‑haul Classic Rewards get cheaper—starting at just 5,700 points on sub-600-mile routes.

Qantas adds up to 1 million more Classic Reward seats on partners like Finnair, Air France, KLM, Iberia, and Hawaiian Airlines (coming mid/late 2025).

Old Chart effective till 4th August:

What This Means for Travelers?

• If you're traveling in Economy... book before 5 August to lock in lower redemption rates, especially on short‑haul domestic and Oneworld itineraries.

• For Business and First class... expect about 15–20% more points plus higher carrier charges, which could alter premium cabin affordability.

Domestic flyers benefit: boosted earn rates mean more points in your pocket faster.

Top Strategy Tips:

• Redeem early—book Classic Rewards now for travel through June 2026, while current rates apply.

• Consider partner awards—new Premium Economy rewards on European partners and Hawaiian Airlines may offer better value than devalued Qantas flights.

Use Jetstar smartly—if you're flying domestic short-haul, Jetstar flights will require fewer points and are ideal budget-friendly options.

Final Thoughts:

Qantas’s upcoming devaluation sting stings—but it’s balanced by new earning rates, cheaper Jetstar redemptions, and expanded partner availability.

Maximize your points by booking before August 5 and consider partner and Jetstar redemptions to maintain high-value travel.