westpac altitude black travel insurance claim

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Westpac Complimentary Credit Card Insurance and COVID-19 (Coronavirus) FAQ

Information for westpac eligible cardholders regarding covid-19.

Information on this page is correct as of  30 June 2022 .

Stay up to date on Travel Information for COVID-19 from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)  Smartraveller  website and  World Health Organisation  (WHO) and  Department of Home Affairs .

Always consult the smartraveller.gov.au website prior to any travel. In addition to visas, COVID-19 testing, and proof of vaccination requirements, many countries now have compulsory insurance and medical cover proof conditions. Check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you are entering. If you require additional documentation regarding the complimentary international travel insurance policy due to international entry requirements, please contact us on 1800 091 710.

From 30 June 2022, if during the period of your cover, you (and your spouse/dependents, if they’re eligible for cover) are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic (such as COVID-19), cover may be available under the following sections:

• 1.1 Overseas Emergency Assistance
• 1.2 Overseas Emergency Medical
• 1.4 Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• 2.1 Cancellation
• 3.1 Additional Expenses

If your travel companion is positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19, which impacts your journey, cover may be available to you under the following sections: 

Note, you won’t be covered while travelling against advice or warnings issued by the Australian government and you did not take reasonable care to avoid contracting the sickness, for example by delaying travel to the country listed in a warning.

The above is a summary only, please refer to  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet  for eligibility criteria, full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions.

A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the select benefits in the applicable policy information booklet  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

To receive a formal outcome, Eligible Westpac Cardholders must submit a claim.

Eligible Westpac travellers who meet the eligibility criteria should be aware that other General Exclusions have the potential to apply.

What is a General Exclusion?

A General Exclusion is an exclusion which will be applied across all sections of an insurance policy, and applies regardless of when eligibility for cover was gained. Should a General Exclusion apply, this means that your complimentary credit card travel insurance excludes cover for the event, activities or circumstances (specified in the exclusion) that causes your claim.

To understand what is excluded from the Westpac Complimentary Insurance covers, please refer to Part D – Excesses & General Exclusions section and the section specific exclusions of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

Other exclusions may apply depending upon the circumstances of an individual claim. General Exclusions include but are not limited to:

• by the Australian government (when a ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ or ‘Do not travel’ alert is in place), which can be found on  www.smartraveller.gov.au ; or
• which was published in a reliable mass media source.
• any interference with your travel plans by any government, government regulation or prohibition or intervention or official authority. For example, if  Smartraveller  has a warning, ‘Do not travel’ or ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ due to the risk of COVID-19 infection for a destination, and a cardholder chooses to ignore the warning and is infected with COVID-19, cover may be excluded. Or if a government closes its borders to inbound travellers due to COVID-19 and you are unable to enter and follow your planned travel across the closed border, cover may be excluded.

What if a Westpac Eligible Cardholder has booked travel and needs to cancel due to contracting COVID-19?

If you are unable to travel as a result of contracting COVID-19, Cancellation cover may be provided to eligible travellers, if you or your travel companion are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic such as COVID-19, and cover is expressly included under the Cancellation section of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . If you are unable to travel as a result of an Epidemic or Pandemic related event which does not include you or your travel companion being positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, for example a border closure, there may be no provision to claim as a general exclusion for epidemic and pandemic applies. A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the cancellation benefits in the applicable policy information booklet. Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

You therefore need to consider your own personal circumstances. We are not able to provide you with a cover decision before submitting a claim. To receive a formal outcome, Westpac Eligible Cardholders must submit a claim.

You should also contact your travel agent or travel service provider (airline, cruise line or Tour Company, etc) as they may be able to support you in obtaining refunds, credits or travel re-scheduling.

Can Westpac Eligible Cardholders make a claim for consideration?

Every Westpac Eligible Cardholder can submit a claim and have their individual circumstances considered in accordance with the eligibility criteria which includes the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply as set out in the  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

If you would like to claim, we encourage you to claim online via  insurance.agaassistance.com.au/westpac

Call the Allianz Global Assistance Claims team

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American Express

Card insurance.

Experience the powerful backing of American Express with complimentary insurance.

Using your Insurance

Make a claim

Insurance with your Card

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Your Card insurance explained

Your American Express ® Card may include complimentary domestic and international Travel Insurance, as well as retail insurances like Card Refund and Purchase Cover, and/or Smartphone Screen Cover.

Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits). Use the dropdown menu below for more information.

You should review your Card Insurance T&Cs in the ‘ Insurance with your Card ’ section below, to understand when you are covered.

If you have Travel Insurance included on your Card - You, any Additional Card Members, your/their spouse and dependent children (aged 25 years or younger) are eligible for domestic or international Travel Insurance. You will need to use your eligible American Express Card or Membership Rewards Points to:

Domestic Travel Insurance:

• Pay $500 or more on accommodation, or,
• Pay the full amount of your outbound ticket for a flight, cruise, bus or train to your destination.

International Travel Insurance:

• Pay the full amount of your outbound ticket for a flight or cruise leaving Australia.

Other important things to know (both domestic and international insurance):

• You must be aged 79 years or younger at the time of the qualifying travel purchase to be eligible for insurance cover.
• Cover only applies to Australian residents
• There is no cover for one-way trips where you have no plans to return to your home or work in Australia.

Other Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age limits, exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits).

You should review your Card Insurance T&Cs in the ‘ Insurance with your Card ’ section below, to understand when you are covered and what you are covered for.

If you have Travel Insurance included with your Card, see below for information about coverage when travelling in relation to COVID-19:

Domestic Travel

Cover may be provided:

• If you need to amend or cancel your trip because you or your travelling companion, close relative or a person you’re visiting for the main purpose of your trip are diagnosed with COVID-19.

Cover is not provided for:

• Cancellation or trip changes due to border closures or travel advisory warnings related to COVID-19; or
• Medical expenses related to COVID-19.

International Travel

• If you need to amend or cancel your trip as a result of border closures or upgraded travel advisory warnings related to COVID-19 that occur after you have booked your trip.
• For medical expenses you incur if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 during your trip.

Cover is not provided if:

• The country you’re travelling to is subject to a Government 'Do Not Travel' warning or if borders are closed before your trip starts – even if you have an exemption to travel from the Australian government. However, if you need to amend or cancel your trip due to such a situation, the costs of cancellation and amendment are covered if the warning or border closure occurred after you booked and met the eligibility criteria.

Benefit Exclusions

Claims arising from or caused by COVID-19 will not be paid if:

• You're travelling against a treating doctor's advice.
• You travel after the Australian government has issued a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning or despite borders being closed, even if you have received an exemption from the Australian government to travel.
• You receive a refund, credit note or voucher for the amounts you’re claiming (for example, if an airline or hotel provide you with a credit refund). Please refer to 'Important things to Know About This Policy’ section within your Card Insurance T&Cs.

Retail Item Cover

If your Card has retail insurances - your eligible items are covered when you purchase them using your American Express ® Card and/or Membership Rewards ® Points.

Cover only applies to Australian residents. Other Terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as cover limits, waiting periods and excesses).

Get your Confirmation of Insurance Benefit Letter

If you are a Card Member who has a Card with Complimentary Travel Insurance and need written confirmation that your American Express ® Card includes insurance benefits for border entry purposes, CHUBB Insurance can provide a letter confirming the travel insurance benefit on your Card.

IMPORTANT : This letter is not confirmation that you or anyone else is covered by the policy. To be eligible for cover, you must meet all the eligibility requirements of the policy.

As with all insurance policies - cover is subject to terms, conditions and exclusions (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits). For more information on eligibility, see the ‘ Your Card Insurance Explained ’ section above.

It is important that you read your Card Insurance Terms and Conditions before you travel, to determine if you and your travel plans are covered. You can find the Insurance Terms and Conditions in the ‘ Insurance with your Card ’ section below.

Once you have read the above, click here to access the tool

If you hold an American Express ® Platinum Rewards Credit Card or an American Express Velocity Gold Card, please call CHUBB Insurance on 1800 236 023 to get your Confirmation of Insurance Benefits Letter.

Please note that the email with your Confirmation of Insurance Benefit Letter could take up to 15 minutes to be received.

In the event of a medical emergency

Should the unexpected occur whilst you’re travelling make sure you contact Chubb Assistance soon as practicable on +612 9335 3492. Chubb Assistance will ensure you receive fast and effective treatment from a doctor who speaks your language. Your claim may be affected should you not contact us as soon as practicable.

Lodge your claim via the Chubb Claim Centre for American Express.

For details regarding David Jones Credit Card Complimentary Insurances, read our FAQs

Advise all claims to Chubb within 30 days of a claim event or as soon as reasonably practicable. You must submit all supporting documentation e.g. Medical reports, police reports, declarations, receipts or other such evidence Chubb may request to assist Chubb in the prompt resolution of your claim.

For all other concerns, call the Chubb Claim Centre on +61 2 9335 3492

Insurance included with your Card

Please click on your Card below to view your insurance.

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Insurance Terms and Conditions for claim events before 13th July 2024

Insurance Terms and Conditions for claim events on or after 13th July 2024

The David Jones American Express Platinum Card

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Terms and Conditions

The insurance on American Express Cards is subject to terms, conditions and exclusions (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits). You must use your American Express Card to pay for your trip in order to be covered under the travel insurance and pay for eligible items for those items to be covered under the retail insurance benefits. It is important you read your American Express Card Insurance Terms and Conditions and consider whether the insurance is right for you. We do not provide advice about the insurance or whether it is appropriate for your objectives, financial situation or needs. This insurance is underwritten by Chubb Insurance Australia Limited (ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL No. 239687) under a group policy of insurance held by American Express Australia Limited (ABN 92 108 952 085, AFSL No. 291313). Access to this insurance is provided solely by reason of the statutory operation of section 48 of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth). Card Members are not a party to the group policy, do not have an agreement with Chubb and cannot vary or cancel the cover. American Express is not the insurer, does not guarantee or hold the rights under the group policy on trust for Card Members and does not act on behalf of Chubb or as its agent. American Express is not an Authorised Representative (under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)) of Chubb.

American Express Australia Limited (ABN 92 108 952 085). AFSL No. 291313.

® Registered Trademark of American Express Company

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For American Express® Westpac Altitude Black and American Express® Westpac Altitude Platinum Cards, The American Express® Westpac Altitude Card insurance is subject to terms, conditions and exclusions (such as maximum age limits, pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits) - see the full terms and conditions available here. You must use your American Express Westpac Altitude Card to prepay $500 of travel costs in order to be covered under the overseas travel insurance. AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177, AFSL 245631 (trading as Allianz Global Assistance) under a binder from the underwriter, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850, AFSL 234708, has issued an insurance group policy to Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714 (Westpac). This site does not take into account your objectives or financial situation.

NOW YOU CAN PAY WITH POINTS ANYWHERE, ANYTIME

Now you can pay with points, anywhere, anytime on everything from your morning coffee to groceries.

Eligibility criteria. T&C's apply.

THE GIFT CARD WITH A BONUS

Redeem your points for a $100 David Jones eGift Card and get an extra $10 loaded onto your eGift Card! Eligibility criteria, T&C's apply.

STAY NICE AND SNUG THIS WINTER

Cosy up this Winter with the essentials: heated throws, slow cookers, wool quilts, neck heat pads, temp control mugs, heaters, and more! Eligibility criteria, T&C's apply.

We've made some changes to the way you access your Altitude Rewards Account online. You can no longer sign in directly from this Altitude website.

Welcome to Altitude Rewards

Our credit card rewards program let’s you earn Altitude Reward points on everyday eligible purchases to redeem for our extensive range of offers from gift cards, cash back, with partner airlines or at our online store.

Not only do you get the choice on how you use your points, you’ll earn even more of them when you shop with our select partners. The best thing is, your points won’t expire while you’re an Altitude cardholder, giving you all the time you need to redeem.

Whether Platinum or Black, there’s plenty more to love beyond points and rewards. Scroll down to take a look.

A more rewarding program

Introducing pay with points.

Now you can use your points anywhere Mastercard is accepted on everything from groceries to your favourite coffee.

Use your points to book your next adventure. Find out more

Frequent Flyer

Transfer your Altitude Points to one of our airline partners 2 . Find out more

If you can't decide, you can redeem your points for cashback to your account 1 . Find out more

Merchandise

Browse hundreds of products from tech to homewares. Find out more

Earn up to 6 points per $1 with our Accelerated Earn Partners 3

Explore our Altitude Rewards cards

Altitude Platinum

Earn up to 3 points per dollar spent with the Altitude Rewards Platinum card

Altitude Black

Earn up to 6 points per dollar spent with the Altitude Rewards Black card

More than reward points

Complimentary insurance covers 6

Complimentary insurance covers for overseas travel, extended warranty, purchase security transit accidents are subject to the terms and conditions set out in the Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy.

Personal Concierge Service

Exclusive to Westpac Altitude Black cardholders, the Personal Concierge Service 4 lets you browse and book experiences online, including hard-to-get tickets, last-minute restaurant bookings and more.

Extra Airport Lounge benefits

Including two complimentary Priority Pass airport lounge passes each year, one of which you can share with your travel companion 5 . See FAQs on how to redeem.

Ready to redeem?

Sign in to Westpac Online Banking or call 1300 887 820

Start earning rewards

Find out more

Things you should know

• Altitude Rewards Terms and Conditions
• Altitude Business Rewards Terms and Conditions
• Online Banking Terms and Conditions

The products and items available for redemption via this page are subject to change in points and availability.

This information is general in nature and has been prepared without taking your objectives, needs and overall financial situation into account. For this reason, you should consider the appropriateness of the information to your own circumstances and, if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice

Conditions, credit criteria and fees and charges apply, credit provided by Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

You need to register for Westpac Online Banking and/or the Westpac Mobile Banking App in order to use Online or Mobile Banking. Read the Online Banking Terms and Conditions.

1. The earning and redemption of Altitude Points is subject to the Altitude Rewards Terms and Conditions or Altitude Business Rewards Terms and Conditions. The terms and conditions outline which purchases are eligible for points and the circumstances when you will not earn points, including when your account is overdue. Any unclaimed Rewards Points will expire 90 days from the day the account is closed. Eligible purchases do not include interest, fees and charges, cash or ATM cash advances, cash equivalent transactions, gambling transactions, a purchase from or payment to a local, state or federal government or government related agency, BPAY or similar transactions (such as Post Billpay), refunds and balance transfers debited from the card account.

2. You must be a member of the relevant frequent flyer program to redeem Altitude Points for frequent flyer points and a joining fee may apply. The Altitude Terms and Conditions or the Altitude Business Rewards Terms and Conditions and relevant frequent flyer program terms and conditions apply. Reward flights may be limited and points may be subject to expiry once transferred.

3. Accelerated Earn - Flights: Earn 6 points per dollar on the first $10,000 spent on flights per calendar month, then 1.25 points per $1 spent thereafter on the Altitude Black Mastercard. Or earn 3 points per dollar on the first $10,000 on flights per calendar month, then 1 point per $1 spent thereafter on the Altitude Platinum Mastercard. Points earn applies to flights purchased in Australia directly with the above listed participating airlines using your Altitude Black Mastercard or Altitude Platinum Mastercard. Excludes flights not purchased directly with the participating airlines for example flights purchased through a travel agent, online aggregators or other airlines such as a code-share etc. Excludes Altitude Qantas, Altitude Velocity and Visa Altitude cards. Participating airlines are subject to change.

4. Concierge Services for Altitude Black. Concierge services are provided by a third party supplier. For further details including terms and conditions visit westpac.tenconcierge.com

5. Complimentary lounge pass disclaimers: Priority Pass Membership: Available to Westpac Altitude Black primary cardholders earning Altitude Points through the Altitude Rewards program. Requires enrolment through prioritypass.com/westpacblack. The Primary Cardholder receives two complimentary visits in any 12-month period, one of which may be used by an accompanying guest. Subsequent visits in the 12-month period incur an additional member/guest visit fee, which can be found on the Priority Pass website prioritypass.com/join-prioritypass .The additional fee will be automatically charged to the primary cardholder's Altitude Black card. A Foreign Transaction Fee will apply to the conversion amount. Unused visits expire and cannot be carried forward to any subsequent year. Visit the Contact Us page on www.prioritypass.com for enquiries about the Priority Pass program. Subject to the Priority Pass Conditions Of Use .

6. Complimentary insurance covers: AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631 (trading as Allianz Global Assistance) under a binder from the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 has issued an insurance group policy to Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714 (Westpac) which allows eligible Westpac cardholders to claim under it as third party beneficiaries. Any advice on insurance is general advice only and not based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. The terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the group policy are set out in the Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy (PDF 6MB) which may be amended from time to time. Westpac does not guarantee this insurance.

Altitude Travel is operated by Mastercard Travel Solutions Australia Pty Ltd. ABN 70 003 745 999 and subject to the Altitude Travel Terms and Conditions .

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Westpac credit card complimentary travel insurance

A westpac credit card with travel insurance offers you cover for overseas or interstate trips – here’s how it works..

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In this guide

Which Westpac credit cards have complimentary travel insurance?

• What’s covered by Westpac complimentary international travel insurance?
• What do I need to do to use Westpac’s credit card international travel insurance?

Pre-existing medical conditions

How to make a claim through your westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance policy, other types of westpac complimentary credit card travel insurance, westpac credit card complimentary insurance for shopping, westpac business credit card complimentary insurance options, frequently asked questions.

Westpac offers complimentary travel insurance on its platinum and black credit cards, with policies that cover domestic and international trips. Some Westpac cards also offer complimentary insurance for eligible items you buy.

These insurance policies are underwritten by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited (Allianz). Just like any insurance, there are conditions you need to meet to get cover and make a claim. That's why it's always best to read the policy document. But if you're after a snapshot, we cover some of the key details about Westpac cards that offer cover, the type of cover available and when you'll get it.

Have a question or need to make a claim right now? Call Allianz Global Assistance on 1800 091 710 (Australia) or +61 7 3305 7468 (overseas).

If you don't have a Westpac credit card yet, you can get complimentary travel insurance with a new platinum or black credit card. The length of cover you get depends on the card, as we’ve shown in the table.

What this shows is that Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance for Altitude Platinum and Black cards is separated into Level 1 and Level 2 categories. The key difference between these levels is the length of cover: you get up to 3 months with an Altitude Platinum card and up to 6 months with an Altitude Black card.

If you have a Westpac business credit card, check the complimentary insurance details here .

Have a Westpac credit card that’s not on this list? Check the terms and conditions available on the Westpac website to see if your card is eligible.

What’s covered by Westpac complimentary international travel insurance?

Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance includes cover for luggage, cancellation and emergency medical, with some options for COVID-19. The insurance is broken down into “benefits” based on what you can and can’t claim. Some claims also have an excess charge if your claim is approved, which you need to pay before you’ll get any money back.

To help you understand the cover available, we’ve put the key options for different types of claims into tables, with basic examples of when you might use the cover. But remember: you should always read the insurance policy booklet for complete details of the cover.

Medical, dental and emergencies cover with a Westpac credit card

Westpac complimentary international travel insurance for cancellation, delays and transport, luggage and personal items cover offered with westpac credit card complimentary insurance, hijacking, kidnap and personal liability cover offered with westpac complimentary credit card travel insurance, westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance for death and funerals, westpac complimentary international travel insurance and covid-19.

From 30 June 2022, Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance includes details of when you can make claims related to COVID-19 and other known pandemics and epidemics. This includes for:

• Overseas emergency assistance
• Overseas emergency medical
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Cancellation
• Additional expenses

To make a claim, you need to be positively diagnosed with COVID-19 (or another pandemic/epidemic disease) and meet all the other requirements for a claim. It also applies if a travel companion is positively diagnosed – but won’t apply if you’re travelling against government advice or if the mass media have published details of advice or warnings against travel.

As there are specific conditions to meet for this type of cover, make sure you read the amended policy booklet or call Allianz on 1800 091 710 before you travel.

What's not covered?

Every insurance policy has details of when you will and won’t get cover. These details can be very specific, which is why it is important to always check your insurance policy documents.

To give you an idea, here are some of the key things you won’t be covered for with Westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance:

• Any act of war
• Issues that come up because of alcohol or non-prescription drugs
• Travel that’s for the purpose of medical treatment
• If you’re over 81 or anyone relating to a claim is over 81
• Changes to your plans due to regulations, prohibitions or intervention from a government or official body, including if details have been published in the mass media
• If you or your partner gives birth during the trip (except if it’s due to injury or sickness)
• Dangerous activities including rock climbing (with equipment), white water rafting, bungy jumping, off-piste snowboarding or skiing and quad or motorbike riding on a vehicle that has an engine capacity of 200cc or more

Keep in mind that countries and regions around the world currently have different restrictions and guidelines around the coronavirus pandemic. These can change, so it’s worth checking where you can travel before booking anything.

Want cover for COVID-19? Here’s what you need to know . And if you need cover for a skiing trip, bungy jumping or other overseas adventures, check out adventure sport travel insurance costs and conditions.

What do I need to do to use Westpac’s credit card international travel insurance?

To get international travel insurance cover through your Westpac Altitude Platinum or Black credit card, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

• Travel bookings. You need to use your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for at least $500 of your travel expenses before the start of the trip. You also need a return ticket. An easy way to meet these requirements is to use your card to pay for your overseas flights.
• Australian residency. You must live in Australia and start and end your trip in Australia.
• Age. You’ll be covered if you’re under 81 years of age. If you’re over 81 and want overseas travel insurance, there are some policies you can buy that give you cover up to the age of 100 .

Does Westpac credit card travel insurance cover family members?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements for cover on an upcoming trip, your spouse and dependants (i.e. children) can get cover under this policy when they’re travelling with you for at least half of your trip and meet the following requirements:

• They need to live in Australia and start and end their journey in Australia
• They need to have a return travel booking before they leave
• At least $500 of their travel costs need to be paid for with your Westpac credit card before the start of the trip
• They need to be under 81 years of age at the time they become eligible for the insurance
• They also need to meet the same age requirements and other conditions of the insurance policy

This complimentary international travel insurance only covers a few pre-existing medical conditions, with very specific requirements. Here, we’ve summarised the key details for conditions that are covered. If you have any pre-existing condition, you should also look at the insurance document for full details or call Allianz on 1800 091 710.

🔥 Hot tip: The easiest way to find details in the insurance policy booklet is to open your digital copy and use the find tool (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) to search for the terms (e.g. “Pre-existing medical conditions”).

What if I don’t meet the requirements or have a different pre-existing condition?

If you’re not sure whether your pre-existing medical condition will be covered, call Allianz on 1800 091 710 to check if you can get cover.

You can then apply to have an assessment of the condition over the phone or online at www.checkyourcover.com.au/westpac . The assessment costs $75 over the phone and $45 online. If you’re successful, you’ll get written confirmation from Allianz that your condition is covered.

But if you have pre-existing conditions that aren’t covered, you won’t be able to make a related claim if you've previously seen a doctor or other qualified professional about a condition that ends up causing issues overseas. It's the same for any physical, medical, mental or dental condition that you’re aware of before you travel.

Need cover for a pre-existing health condition? Check out travel insurance policies that offer cover for conditions including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and physical disabilities.

Pre-existing medical condition definition for Westpac credit card insurance

Travel insurance policies all have specific ways of looking at pre-existing medical conditions, so it’s really important you’re aware of the actual definition they use.

As well as the summary above, we have included the definition that’s in the current Westpac card insurance policy document, effective from 27 October 2021 (page 23):

“A condition of which a reasonable person in the circumstances, should have been aware at the time eligibility for the cover available was met, including:

• Any dental condition; or
• Any physical condition; or
• Pregnancy; or
• Any lifelong illness; or
• Any chronic illness; or
• Any mental illness; or
• Any current or previously treated cancer, or

Any condition which, in the last two (2) years:

• Was treated by surgery (including day surgery); or
• Required regular medication; or
• Required on-going treatment; or
• Was referred to a specialist medical adviser; or
• Had regular reviews or check-ups; or
• Caused admission to hospital; or
• Was treated at a hospital emergency department or out-patient clinic”

As soon as you think you’ll need to make a claim, contact Allianz Global Assistance so that they can give you specific information.

You can do this overseas by calling the emergency assistance number on +61 7 3305 7468 or in Australia by calling 1800 091 710. You can also email [email protected] but may have to wait longer for a response.`

There are 2 main ways you can submit your claim:

You will hear back about your claim within 10 business days, according to the online claims website.

What to include in your claim

Aim to include as much detail and supporting documentation as possible. It makes it easier for the insurer to look at the claim and your eligibility for a payout.

So when you're travelling with this cover, try to get as much written or photo evidence as you can for any claim you need to make. This could include the following:

• A referral or letter from a doctor or other professional you see in relation to a claim
• Official medical reports
• Police reports
• Photos of damaged items
• Emails or letters from airlines that relate to a claim
• Receipts or other proof of purchase

When you fill in the online claim form, you’ll also be asked for some key personal details, including part of your Westpac credit card number (to confirm you’re eligible for cover).

Overseas transit accident insurance

• What is it? Cover for accidents that happen when you're travelling overseas on a plane, train, cruise ship, bus or other eligible vehicle. You also get cover for related accidents that happen when you're boarding or leaving the transport.
• When can I use it? If you have paid for the entire trip with your eligible Westpac credit card before you leave. If your partner or dependants are travelling with you for the whole trip, they'll also get cover.
• Is there an excess cost? No, you don't need to pay an excess for any claims but there are limits to how much you can get paid out. For example, the loss of one hand or foot has a maximum benefit of $250,000.

Interstate flight inconvenience insurance

• What is it? Cover for specific issues that come up when you're travelling to a different state or territory in Australia. This can include costs relating to cancelled return flights, flight delays of 4 hours or more, delayed or lost luggage and funeral expenses.
• When can I use it? You’ll get cover for up to 14 days in a row if you have paid for the entire trip with your eligible Westpac credit card. Your spouse and any dependants can also get cover when you have used your Westpac card to pay for their return travel and they will be with you for at least half the trip.
• Is there an excess cost? There is a $300 excess for claims that relate to cancellation or luggage (except for delayed luggage). There are no excess costs for other claims but there are maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the type of claim.

Rental vehicle excess in Australia insurance

• What is it? Cover for damage or theft of a car or other vehicle you have hired in Australia, up to a maximum of $5,500 (or less if the amount specified in your rental vehicle agreement is lower).
• When can I use it? If you have paid for the vehicle hire with your eligible Westpac credit card and the vehicle hire agreement lists an excess cost.
• Is there an excess cost? There is a $300 excess for each claim you submit.

How to make a claim under one of these policies

Westpac credit cards give you access to other types of insurance, which are also provided by Allianz. Below is a snapshot of the different types.

Purchase protection insurance

• What is it? Cover for the cost of a new item that is stolen, accidentally damaged or lost. It covers most household and personal items such as laptops, shoes, jewellery and glasses. Exclusions include second-hand items, perishables, cash, computer software, vehicles and items you’ve accidentally left in a hotel after checking out.
• When can I use it? If you use your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for covered items, this insurance will apply for the first 4 months from when you get them. This cover is available for personal items bought anywhere in the world, including gifts if the person they are given to is a permanent Australian resident.
• How can I make a claim? You need to show proof that you own the item and report the loss, theft or damage to the local police or relevant authorities (such as the office of a transport company). Ideally, you should get written confirmation of this report. Then, call Allianz on 1800 091 710 or submit your claim through the Allianz online claim portal.
• Is there an excess cost? An excess of $300 per claim applies. There are also maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the item, with a yearly maximum of $135,000 for all claims.

Extended warranty insurance

• What is it? Cover that doubles the manufacturer's warranty for items bought in Australia, up to a maximum period of 2 years. For example, if you bought a laptop with a 12-month manufacturer's warranty and it stopped working for no reason after 12 months, you could make a claim under this cover.
• When can I use it? If you used your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for an item worth up to $20,000 and it came with an Australian manufacturer’s warranty of between 7 days and 5 years. You can make a claim if something happens after the original warranty period has ended.
• How can I make a claim? Call Allianz on 1800 091 710 or submit your claim through the Allianz online claim portal at https://claims.agaassistance.com.au/ .
• Is there an excess cost? An excess of $300 per claim applies. There are also maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the item.

Don’t have complimentary insurance on your credit card yet? Compare Westpac credit cards or check out other cards that offer insurance .

All Westpac business credit cards offer complimentary unauthorised transaction insurance to help protect you if an additional cardholder uses the account for something that's not allowed.

You can also get complimentary insurance for travel and shopping depending on the Westpac business credit card you choose. Here’s a look at your options:

Want a credit card for your business? Compare a wide range of cards that offer insurance, rewards and other perks.

Does Westpac credit card international travel insurance cover coronavirus?

Yes, this complimentary international travel insurance does offer some cover related to COVID-19 including overseas emergency medical and cancellation cover. To make a claim, you or a travel companion need to be positively diagnosed as suffering from COVID-19 and not be travelling against official advice or warnings.

This cover also applies for other known pandemics and epidemics. But as claim requirements are very specific, make sure you read the insurance policy booklet for full details.

Finder also has a whole guide covering questions about this pandemic and travel insurance .

Can I get proof of my cover?

Yes. If you’re going on a cruise or tour that requires proof of insurance, you can get a letter of eligibility online by visiting http://www.checkyourcover.com.au/westpac and providing your details. This includes some information about your Westpac credit card to confirm you're eligible for cover.

Amy Bradney-George

Amy Bradney-George was the senior writer for credit cards at Finder, and editorial lead for Finder Green. She has over 16 years of editorial experience and has been featured in publications including ABC News, Money Magazine and The Sydney Morning Herald. See full bio

More guides on Finder

A no-frills card offering up to $350 back when you meet the spend requirement and a 13.74% p.a. interest rate on purchases.

A premium credit card offering up to 120,000 bonus Velocity Points, uncapped rewards points and complimentary insurance covers.

This platinum credit card offers up to 80,000 bonus Velocity points, uncapped points potential, a discounted first-year annual fee and complimentary insurance covers.

A no-frills card offering a 0% interest on balance transfers for the first 28 months and a 13.74% p.a. interest rate on purchases.

With bonus Qantas Points and a range of complimentary insurance covers, the Westpac Altitude Qantas Platinum is worth considering if you want more frequent flyer points.

The Westpac Altitude Qantas Black Card boasts bonus points, a competitive earn rate as well as travel perks and extra features.

Offers $0 annual fee in the first year and in the following years when you meet the spend requirement.

This black rewards credit card is packed with perks including uncapped points per $1 spent, airport lounge passes, complimentary travel insurance and up to 150,000 bonus points offer.

The Westpac BusinessChoice Rewards Platinum offers Qantas Points on business spending, including ATO payments – here's how its other features add up.

This platinum rewards card comes with up to 120,000 bonus points offer and complimentary insurance for domestic and overseas travel. Is it worth it for you?

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181 Responses

do I need to register for complimentary travel insurance? if so, who do I contact. please provide details.

Hi Christine,

According to the product PDS, you are eligible for the cover available under the credit card’s International Travel Insurance when you meet all of the following criteria: 1. you reside in Australia and your journey begins and ends in Australia; and 2. before leaving Australia you spend at least $500 on your prepaid travel costs (i.e. your travel costs that you pay for before leaving Australia) and you charge these costs (e.g. cost of your return overseas travel ticket; and/or airport/departure taxes; and/or your prepaid overseas accommodation/ travel; and/or your other prepaid overseas itinerary items) to the accountholder’s card account; and 3. you have a return overseas travel ticket before you leave Australia; and 4. you are aged under eighty one (81) years at the time you become eligible for the cover available by meeting conditions 1 to 3 listed above.

If you meet this eligibility criteria, you are covered automatically – you don’t need to apply or make any enquiries.

Hope this helps!

Would my x3 dependent’s (2,4,5YO) be covered under this with my Westpac Altitude Platinum credit card?

Hi Natalie,

Yes, generally your spouse and children are covered under your travel insurance policy, provided you are all travelling on the same itinerary. Westpac’s PDS confirms: “We insure Westpac cardholders, their spouses and their dependent child/children up to and including 80 years of age.”

I tried to get a pre approval for my 6 day Royal Caribbean Cruise to Airlie Beach & Cairns. I was required to enter the trip destination.

I was advised to state Pacific waters around Australia. This destination is not accepted. How do I progress with getting pre approval? Am I covered? I would also like to check pre existing conditions as I had a heart attack 14 years ago. I am all good and have no issues

Hi Dudley, You may want to call Allianz, the insurance provider, directly on 1800 091 710 to find out what cover would be available for this trip, as there are specific definitions for what is considered “overseas” (including in relation to cruises). If you have not booked your trip yet, calling Allianz may provide more clarity. I hope this helps.

Does westpac zero platinum Mastercard cover you for travel insurance on cruises.

Hi Mary, Some cover may be available if the cruise is a foreign-registered vessel and you meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the policy booklet. You can check your eligibility and cover by calling the insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance on 1800 091 710. Or by visiting https://travel.agaassistance.com.au/westpac/travel-insurance and providing some basic details for your Westpac credit card. I hope this helps.

If westpack credit card insurance cover domestic cruise ?

Hi Jenny, International travel insurance cover may be available when you are on a foreign registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters, based on the policy document’s definition of “overseas”. You can also check your cover by contacting the insurance provider, Allianz, on 1800 091 710 or by visiting https://travel.agaassistance.com.au/westpac/travel-insurance . I hope this helps.

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Turn your everyday into somewhere extraordinary

• Credit Cards
• Transfer Points to Velocity

Westpac Velocity Points earning Cards

You can earn Velocity Points with a Westpac Velocity Points earning Card or by transferring your existing Westpac Altitude points straight into your Velocity account. 

Get up to 150,000 bonus Velocity Points*

For a limited time, earn an extra 30k bonus Points on select Velocity Points Earning credit cards*. Stack these 30k bonus Points on top of individual credit card offers, for up to 150k bonus Points.

*T&Cs, min. spend and eligibility criteria apply. Must be a card with an annual fee. Offer end date varies.

Westpac Altitude Black Credit Card with Velocity Points

Up to 120,000 bonus Velocity Points 1  + an extra 30,000 bonus Velocity Points by 15 July 2024*

Earn up to 0.75 Velocity Points per $1 spent on eligible purchases 5 , uncapped 2

Two complimentary single-entry Virgin Australia domestic lounge passes each year 6

Two complimentary Economy X Seat Upgrade vouchers each year (eligible for domestic flights only) 9

All this and more for an annual card fee of $295, plus an annual Altitude Velocity Rewards fee of $75 4

Apply and be approved by 31 July 2024

Westpac Altitude Platinum Credit Card with Velocity Points

Up to 80,000 bonus Velocity Points 1  + an extra 30,000 bonus Velocity Points by 15 July 2024*

Earn up to 0.5 Velocity Points per $1 spent on eligible purchases 5 , uncapped 2 .

Two complimentary Economy X Seat Upgrade vouchers each year (eligible for domestic flights only) 7

Complimentary insurances for interstate and international travel, extended warranty and purchase protection for up to 4 months (terms, conditions, exclusions and eligibility criteria apply) 6

$99 reduced first year annual fee ($175 thereafter) 4  plus a $75 annual Velocity Rewards Fee 8

Maximise the Rewards on your card

If you already have a Westpac Velocity Points earning Card, here are some great ways you can maximise your rewards.

My Benefits

Enjoy exclusive benefits on the Mastercard such as Economy X Seat Upgrades, Velocity Lounge Passes (only on Altitude Black Mastercard), and more.

Did you know that if you use your eligible Altitude Card with any of the Velocity partners, you’ll earn Points twice? With the partner and with your Card.

More Rewards

Westpac’s most rewarding card, offering a range of premium services including Priority Service Line, Concierge, exclusive offers and experiences.

Transferring your Westpac Altitude Points to Velocity

You can convert Altitude Points earned on your eligible Westpac credit cards to Velocity Points by transferring from your Westpac account 12 For more information, login to Altitude Rewards via the Westpac App or Online Banking.

If your Velocity membership number is not already registered with Westpac, you can do this online in your account, or by calling  1300 887 820

Terms & Conditions

Eligible Cards

If your card is listed, you can transfer your existing Altitude Points to your Velocity account 12 .

• Westpac Altitude Platinum
• Westpac Altitude Platinum Plus
• Westpac Altitude Black
• Westpac Altitude Business Gold
• Westpac Altitude Business Platinum

How to transfer

A minimum 3,000 Altitude Points are required to transfer, with additional increments in multiples of 500 Altitude Points at a time

• Log in to   Altitude Rewards   via the Westpac App or Online Banking
• Click on Redeem Points
• Click on Airline Points under Altitude Travel
• Select Velocity and enter the quantity of points to transfer (minimum of 3,000 Altitude Points)
• Add to Cart and Add Velocity Info to “Transfer now”

Credit criteria, fees and charges apply. 

Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

Westpac Altitude Velocity Platinum Mastercard and Westpac Altitude Velocity Black Mastercard Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher conditions:

1. By keeping or using your Westpac Altitude Velocity Platinum or Westpac Altitude Velocity Black Card, you are agreeing to these Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher Conditions. 

2. In these Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher Conditions:

• Westpac means Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141
• Virgin Australia means Virgin Australia Airlines Pty Ltd ABN 36 090 670 965
• you and your means the Altitude Velocity Platinum Mastercard or Altitude Velocity Black Mastercard primary cardholder with a Westpac Altitude Velocity card account
• Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher means a single use, one-way upgrade to an Economy X seat class on an eligible Virgin Australia direct domestic flight between two selected Australian cities
• Card means the Altitude Velocity Platinum Mastercard or Altitude Velocity Black Mastercard
• Anniversary Year means the period starting on the date on which the applicable Altitude Velocity Platinum Mastercard or Altitude Velocity Black Mastercard card account is opened by Westpac (Anniversary Date) and expiring on the day before the Anniversary Date each year thereafter
• Primary Cardholder means the person who opens the Altitude Velocity Platinum Mastercard and Altitude Velocity Black Mastercard with Westpac

Other expressions which are used in these Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher Conditions that are not defined here have the same meaning as in the Points Terms and Conditions.

3. Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher redemption is available for booking via the redemption criteria in clause 13 by eligible Altitude Velocity Platinum Mastercard or Altitude Velocity Black Mastercard primary cardholders.

4. Eligibility:

(a) You are entitled to two Economy X Seat Upgrade Vouchers per Anniversary Year of holding your eligible Altitude Velocity Platinum Mastercard or Altitude Velocity Black Mastercard card account after meeting any annual spend and other criteria required by Westpac.  For spend, other criteria and Altitude Terms and Conditions, please refer to  https://www.westpac.com.au/content/dam/public/wbc/documents/pdf/pb/credit-cards/Altitude_Rewards_Terms_and_1.pdf

(b)Your Flight must be booked and Economy X Seat Upgrade Vouchers redeemed before the end of each Anniversary Year. Voucher benefits cannot be carried forward to any subsequent year.

5. Subject to applicable laws, Virgin Australia and Westpac reserve the right to change these Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher Conditions from time to time without prior notice, including but not limited to the right to charge fees for Economy X Seat Upgrades or to stop offering Economy X Seat Upgrades. Westpac will inform you of any changes to these Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher Conditions.

6. You may redeem your Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher in the name of another individual travelling on the same itinerary as the Primary Cardholder.

7. Each Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher can only be redeemed on an eligible non-stop Virgin Australia operated domestic Australian flight. The Economy X Upgrade Voucher is valid per single flight sector only.  The flight on which the Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher is redeemed may be part of a multi-flight itinerary but the Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher can be applied to only one flight sector.

8. All Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher redemptions are subject to availability and neither Virgin Australia nor Westpac guarantee that Economy X seats will be available on the flight you may wish to redeem on. Economy X seat availability may be limited to certain dates and/or flights and it may be more difficult to book seats around public holidays, school holidays or special events.

9. All travel is subject to the  Virgin Australia Fare Conditions and Virgin Australia Conditions of Carriage  as amended from time to time. No Velocity Points or Status Credits will be awarded for Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher redemptions. 

10. An Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher cannot be redeemed on a Velocity Reward Seat redemption. 

11. Tickets on which the Economy X Seat Upgrade has been redeemed may not be sold, transferred, endorsed, exchanged for cash or refunded (except as provided under the Australian Consumer Law). 

12. C12. Credit card applications are subject to Westpac’s normal lending criteria. Terms and conditions and fees and charges apply and are available on request at any Westpac branch or via westpac.com.au. The features of the Altitude Card may change. Altitude Cards are issued by Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714. All Velocity Points redemptions with Velocity Frequent Flyer are subject to availability, which may be limited and to the  Velocity Membership Terms & Conditions [RD1]  . Individuals must be an Altitude cardholder and Velocity Member. The earning and redemption of Altitude Points is subject to the  Altitude Rewards Terms and Conditions [RD2]  . These Terms and Conditions set out when you do not earn Altitude Points, including on cash advances. Membership of Velocity is the cardholders' responsibility and is subject to the Velocity Membership Terms & Conditions [RD3]   as amended from time to time. To redeem Altitude Points, the cardholder must register (by calling 1300 887 820 or at  altituderewards.com.au ) their Velocity Membership Number prior to their first redemption.

You must have earned a minimum of 3,000 Altitude Points before you can redeem for any Altitude reward. A minimum of 6 Altitude Points are required before points can be transferred to Velocity. You must transfer a minimum of 3,000 Altitude Points to Velocity, with additional increments in multiples of 500 Altitude Points at a time. Subsequent transfers can be done over the phone or online.  You will receive 1 Velocity Point for every 3 Altitude Points. Please allow 3 business days for the processing of the transfers. You will not receive Altitude Points if your card account is in arrears for 2 consecutive statement cycles and in other circumstances. Once Altitude Points have been redeemed for Velocity Points, they are governed by the Velocity Membership Terms and Conditions and cannot be reversed. Velocity membership and the earn and redemption of Velocity Points is subject to the  Membership Terms and Conditions , as amended from time to time.

13. Redemption Criteria:

 (a) Flight you wish to redeem your Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher on must be purchased using your Altitude Velocity Platinum Mastercard or Altitude Velocity Black Mastercard. 

(b) To redeem your complimentary Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher, please contact Virgin Australia by calling 1300 038 373 with your flight booking details and Velocity Frequent Flyer membership number. 

14. After an Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher has been redeemed, any changes to the flight booking, including the Economy X seat, should be made via the  Virgin Australia Guest Contact Centre . If you wish to cancel and/ or re-route and/ or change the time and/or date of a booked flight on which Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher has been redeemed, please contact Virgin Australia by calling 1300 038 373. If you cancel and/ or re-route and/ or change the time and/ or date of a booked flight on which Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher has been redeemed and an Economy X Seat is not available on your new flight, your voucher will be forfeited. 

15. The Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher Redemption Criteria is subject to change and Velocity Frequent Flyer reserve the right to amend the process from time to time. 

16. If the flight on which you have redeemed your Economy X Upgrade Seat voucher is cancelled and/ or disrupted by Virgin Australia, you are entitled to a new complimentary Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher, only if:

(a) you were rebooked to another flight:

(i) by Virgin Australia for operational reasons or because Virgin Australia cancelled your flight and Economy X was not provided on the other flight;

(ii) because you missed your connecting flight after an inbound flight on Virgin Australia or its codeshare partners and you were not provided with an Economy X seat on the other flight;

(b) Virgin Australia changed the aircraft and there were no Economy X seats available on the alternative aircraft

(c) Virgin Australia used its right to assign or reassign your Economy X seat either before or after boarding for operational, safety, security or other reasons;

(d) you were seated in an Exit Row, however were assigned a standard Economy seat because you no longer wanted to sit in an Exit Row or no longer meet the Exit Row Safety Conditions and Virgin Australia were unable to accommodate you in an alternate Economy X seat.

(e)you were seated in an Economy X seat in an Exit Row and refuse to accept the Exit Row Safety conditions and Virgin Australia were unable to accommodate you in an alternate Economy X seat.

(f). To receive your new complimentary Economy X seat upgrade voucher, please complete an Economy X Enquiry on the  Virgin Australia Contact Us . Your new complimentary Economy X Voucher will then be applied to your Velocity Frequent Flyer membership account. 

17. Westpac does not own or operate any airline or aircraft. Westpac is not liable for service deficiencies on the part of airlines or other service providers, including but not limited to: accidents, injuries, infections and illnesses; delays and diversions;

changes in routes or itineraries; loss, theft or damage to possessions.

18. These Economy X Seat Upgrade Voucher Conditions are governed by the laws of Queensland.

Westpac Altitude Black Mastercard and Westpac Altitude Platinum Mastercard:

1. Bonus Velocity Points Promotion Altitude Black:  To be eligible for up to 120,000 bonus Velocity Points, you must apply and be approved for a new Altitude Velocity Black credit card between 2 November 2023 and 31 July 2024. You will receive an initial 90,000 bonus points if you spend $6,000 or more on eligible purchases within 120 days of card approval. These will be credited to your points balance within 12 weeks of meeting this spend criteria. You will receive an additional 30,000 bonus points if you keep your account open for more than 12 months and continue to use the card. These additional points will be credited to your points balance within 12 weeks, after the first eligible purchase is made in the second year of your card account being active. If you do not meet the minimum spend criteria within 120 days of card approval, you forfeit the initial 90,000 bonus points only. However, you are still eligible for the additional 30,000 bonus points in the second year if you continue to use your card. Existing Westpac customers who currently hold an Earth Classic, Earth Platinum, Earth Platinum Plus, Earth Black, Altitude Classic, Altitude Platinum or Altitude Black credit card, or who have held one in the last 12 months, are not eligible for this offer. Velocity Points earned during a statement cycle are added to your Velocity Points balance on a monthly basis.

Bonus Velocity Points Promotion Altitude Platinum:  To be eligible for up to 80,000 bonus Velocity Points, you must apply and be approved for a new Altitude Velocity Platinum credit card between 28 February 2024 and 31 July 2024.  You will receive an initial 60,000 bonus points if you spend $4,000 or more on eligible purchases within 90 days of card approval. These will be credited to your points balance within 12 weeks of meeting this spend criteria.You will receive an additional 20,000 bonus points if you keep your account open for more than 12 months and continue to use the card. These additional points will be credited to your points balance within 12 weeks, after the first eligible purchase is made in the second year of your card account being active.If you do not meet the minimum spend criteria within 90 days of card approval, you forfeit the initial 60,000 bonus points only. However, you are still eligible for the additional 20,000 bonus points in the second year if you continue to use your card. Existing Westpac customers who currently hold an Earth Classic, Earth Platinum, Earth Platinum Plus, Earth Black, Altitude Classic, Altitude Platinum or Altitude Black credit card, or who have held one in the last 12 months, are not eligible for this offer. Velocity Points earned during a statement cycle are added to your Velocity Points balance on a monthly basis.

2. Rewards Points on the Westpac Altitude Mastercard: The earning and redemption of Velocity Points is subject to the  Altitude Velocity Terms and Conditions . Purchases that are not eligible to earn Velocity Points are set out in the Altitude Rewards Terms and Conditions. For example: payments to the Australian Taxation Office, cash advances, BPAY and BPAY equivalent transactions do not earn Velocity Points. You do not receive points if your card account is in arrears for 2 consecutive statement cycles and in other circumstances. An annual $75 Velocity Rewards fee applies for customers who choose to earn Velocity Points through the Altitude Velocity Rewards program.

4. The complimentary Lounge pass benefit is available to Primary Velocity Altitude Black Mastercard Cardholders only and provides two Single-Entry Virgin Australia domestic Lounge passes each year. You will become eligible for your two Single-Entry Virgin Australia domestic Lounge passes upon card activation in your first year and then each anniversary thereafter. See   Virgin Australia Lounge Pass Benefit Terms & Conditions  for full details.

5. Complimentary insurance covers: AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631 (trading as Allianz Global Assistance) under a binder from the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 has issued an insurance group policy to Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714 (Westpac) which allows eligible Westpac cardholders to claim under it as third-party beneficiaries. Any advice on insurance is general advice only and not based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. The terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the group policy are set out in the  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy  which may be amended from time to time. Westpac does not guarantee this insurance.

6. Concierge Services: Concierge Services are subject to the Westpac Rewards Credit Cards  Concierge Service Terms and Conditions .

Westpac Points Transfer:

12. Transfer one time: A minimum of 6 Altitude points is required before points can be transferred. You will receive 1 Velocity Point for every 3 Altitude points. Please allow 3 business days for the processing of the transfers. You will not receive points if your card account is in arrears for 2 consecutive statement cycles and in other circumstances. Once Altitude Points have been redeemed for Velocity Points, they are governed by the Velocity Membership Terms and Conditions and cannot be reversed. Velocity membership and the earn and redemption of Velocity Points is subject to the  Membership Terms and Conditions , as amended from time to time.

Velocity membership Terms and Conditions  apply.

The best $250 insurance excess I’ve ever spent.

• November 15, 2019
• Tips, Tricks & Hacks

Hang in there till I get to my happy ending. It all started with me booking a rental car through booking.com. I was off to visit family in New Zealand and knew I would be doing plenty of driving from Auckland to Hamilton then to the Coromandel. If you haven’t been to the Coromandel, you must!

In this post:

The Incident

After having driven 300+ kilometers with not a single scratch or even dust mark on the hired car I was 10 minutes out from the depot and a stone flew up from a passing car and put a crack in my windscreen! I bet your asking, ‘Show us your crack!’.

Here’s the crack!

Smaller than a NZ 20 cent (pictured) which is roughly the same size as an AUS 10 cent. The ‘crack’er with this chip was the position of it on the windscreen. It was in front of the driver which meant the windscreen had to be replaced rather than repaired. When I got to the depot I did the honest thing and told them that a stone chipped my windscreen and they sent a specialist to have a look. Wish I had paid the specialist $50 to say the chip could be repaired for $250. But instead he said it had to be replaced and for a 2019 Toyota Corolla that was going to cost me $827.50.

$827.50!!! You have to be kidding!

For a tiny chip!!! I was spewing. But I also had a flight to catch, so I swiped my Westpac Altitude Black card and headed to the airport. Go Rentals (where I hired the car) did remind me that I didn’t book car insurance with them and I had selected another provider Booking.com. So after I checked in at the airport and had some downtime I contacted Booking.com to process a claim.  I was unable to process a claim online because my insurance policy was ‘unpaid’? Wait what? I paid for the insurance along with the car rental online through booking.com. But here is the stinger… When I amended my pick up time from 9pm to 11pm, (flight was delayed) booking.com had cancelled my car insurance with them and refunded my money. None of this was communicated to me because it was being sent via email to my work address. A text would have been appreciated. So after swiping my card at Go Rentals for $827.50 and hearing from Booking.com that I ‘didn’t’ have a policy with them, I had come to the conclusion that I would be eating rice for the rest of the year and wrapping up second hand gifts for Christmas. 

Westpac Altitude Black Travel Insurance saves the day

Turn that frown upside down. Then my friend and co-founder of this blog, Drew , told me about my complimentary credit card insurance. DUH! I had booked all of my travel on my Westpac Altitude Black card hence I was eligible to make a claim for windscreen damage. The excess would be $250 if my claim was approved, but that is better than paying the full $827.50. So what did I have to lose, I had already lost $827. I put in my claim. (Make sure you include as much proof as possible, receipts, photos, timestamps of you booking your travel on the card). A week later I got an email saying my claim had been approved. I would receive $578 in my nominated account, I could have kissed the computer! My Westpac Altitude Black card had saved the day (I suppose I should thank Drew too).

Next time I’m not going to go through the hassle of getting additional Travel Insurance, I can rely on my knight in shining armour (Westpac Altitude Black card) to cover me while I’m travelling. Hopefully won’t come across another flying stone anytime soon Thank you Points Brotherhood #3 biggest fan (Behind Drew & Milton) Pearl

About Pearl

Moved to Australia for some fun in the sun. Also loves travelling home to New Zealand to see family and friends. When work permits I try to see the sights of Australia.

One comment

Great story Pearl! Drew also gave me that handy hint when my son broke his 2 month old phone & we were able to claim as we paid with the Westpac Altitude Black Card. Happy Days!

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