5 Best No Fee Credit Cards in Australia (2026 Edition)

This guide will take you through the best no annual fee credit cards available in Australia in 2026, how to choose the right one for you, what to watch out for, and easy tables to compare your options.

Let’s be honest — credit cards can get bloody expensive. Between annual fees, interest, late fees, and foreign transaction charges, the costs can pile up faster than you realise. If you’re looking to avoid all that, no-fee credit cards are a fantastic way to keep your finances simple and avoid unnecessary charges.

What Does “No Fee” Really Mean?

When we say no fee credit card, we mean cards that:

• Charge $0 annual fee, either forever or at least for the first year
• Often come with interest-free days on purchases
• Might still have other fees like late payment or foreign transaction fees

It’s worth noting that “no fee” doesn’t always mean completely free. Some other charges may still apply, including:

• Late payment fees
• Cash advance fees
• Foreign transaction fees
• Balance transfer fees

Always read the terms and conditions before signing up so there are no surprises.

How to Choose the Right No Fee Credit Card

When picking a no fee card, consider:

• Annual fee: Make sure it’s truly $0, not just the first year
• Interest rates and interest-free days: Useful if you don’t always pay your balance in full
• Rewards or perks: Points or cashback can be a bonus if you actually use them
• Extra features: Some cards have balance transfer deals, travel perks, or no foreign transaction fees
• Overall value: Choose the card that best fits your lifestyle and spending habits

Top No Fee Credit Cards — 2026 Edition

Here’s a snapshot of some of the most popular and practical no fee credit cards available today:

1. Kogan Money Credit Card — Best All-Round No Fee Card

The Kogan Money Credit Card is a solid choice for anyone who wants a straightforward, no-fee card with a bit of rewards on top. This card is perfect if you shop online regularly, especially on Kogan, as it lets you earn points on your purchases. On top of that, it occasionally offers 0% balance transfer deals, which is handy if you want to move debt from another card. Overall, it balances flexibility and rewards without the burden of an annual fee.

Pros:

• No ongoing fee
• Rewards program included
• Occasional balance transfer deals

Cons:

• Purchase rate higher than low-rate cards
• Foreign currency fee applies (~3.4%)
• Best if you pay off the balance each month

Best For: Everyday online shoppers who like a bit of rewards value.

2. Bankwest Zero Platinum Mastercard — Everyday Card With Travel Perks

The Bankwest Zero Platinum Mastercard is ideal for travellers or anyone who spends money overseas. Its standout feature is no foreign transaction fees, which is rare among no-fee cards. You also get up to 55 days interest-free on purchases, making it flexible for managing monthly expenses. Simple, clean, and straightforward — perfect if you want a card that works well at home and abroad.

Pros:

• No foreign currency charges
• Flexible 0% offers for purchases or balance transfers
• Simple and easy to use

Cons:

• After introductory offers, interest reverts to normal (~18.99%)
• No rewards program

Best For: Travellers or those who make overseas purchases frequently.

3. Coles No Annual Fee Mastercard — Everyday Rewards

If you love stacking up loyalty points while doing your regular shopping, the Coles No Annual Fee Mastercard is a winner. Every time you shop at Coles or partner stores, you earn Flybuys points, which can be redeemed for gift cards, flights, or discounts. Perfect for families or anyone who shops regularly for groceries, as the points can add up faster than you think.

Pros:

• Earn loyalty points on groceries and everyday spend
• Good if you shop frequently at Coles or partner stores

Cons:

• Purchase rate isn’t the lowest
• Reward caps and terms apply

Best For: Regular supermarket shoppers who want to earn points while spending.

4. American Express Low Rate Credit Card — Simple & Cheap

For those who sometimes carry a balance, the American Express Low Rate Credit Card is ideal. It has one of the lowest purchase interest rates among no-fee cards, which can save you a bundle if you don’t always pay off the balance in full. You can also add up to four extra cards at no cost, which is handy for partners or family members. Just keep in mind that not all merchants accept AMEX, so it’s good to have a backup card.

Pros:

• One of the lowest purchase interest rates
• Add up to four extra cards at no extra cost
• Good if you sometimes carry a balance

Cons:

• Not accepted everywhere
• Limited rewards perks

Best For: People who sometimes carry a balance but want to avoid annual fees.

5. ING Orange One Low Rate Credit Card — Low Cost Everyday

The ING Orange One Low Rate Credit Card is a straightforward, budget-friendly option. Its low ongoing interest rate (~12–13% p.a.) and $0 annual fee make it ideal for anyone who wants to keep costs minimal. It doesn’t offer flashy rewards or perks, but that’s the point — it’s clean, easy to use, and focused on saving you money while still providing standard credit card flexibility.

Pros:

• Low ongoing interest
• Simple, transparent terms
• No annual fee

Cons:

• Limited rewards or perks
• Interest still applies if balance isn’t paid on time

Best For: Budget-conscious Aussies who want a simple, low-cost card for everyday spending.

Fees & Other Costs to Watch Out For

Even with a no fee card, other fees can apply:

Check the fine print — this is usually where surprises hide.

💡 Tips for Getting the Most Out of a No Fee Credit Card

A no fee credit card can be a really smart financial tool — if you use it properly. While the lack of an annual fee already saves you money, the real value comes from how you manage the card day to day. Below are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your no fee credit card and avoid common traps.

1. Always Pay Your Balance in Full (If You Can)

This is the golden rule of credit cards. Credit cards with no fee usually come with higher interest rates than premium cards, which means carrying a balance can get expensive very quickly. If you pay your full statement balance by the due date each month, you avoid interest altogether and effectively use the card for free.

Think of your credit card as a payment tool, not extra income. Use it for everyday expenses like groceries, fuel, or bills, then clear it before interest kicks in. If you do this consistently, you’ll get the convenience of a credit card without the financial stress.

2. Make the Most of Interest-Free Days

Most no fee credit cards offer around 44 to 55 interest-free days on purchases. This gives you a short-term buffer between when you buy something and when you actually need to pay for it.

To use this properly:

• Time bigger purchases just after your statement date
  
   
• Avoid using cash advances, as they usually don’t come with interest-free days
  
   
• Pay the full balance by the due date to keep interest at zero

Used wisely, interest-free days can help with cash flow — especially if you’re managing monthly bills or uneven income. If you are looking for interest-free cards, check out our blog on the best interest-free credit cards.

3. Set Up Automatic Payments

Late payment fees can quickly cancel out the benefit of having no annual fee. To avoid this, set up automatic repayments for at least the minimum amount due. Even better, set it to pay the full balance automatically if your cash flow allows.

This way:

• You avoid late fees
• You protect your credit score
• You never forget a due date

Auto-payments are one of the easiest ways to stay on top of your card without having to think about it every month.

4. Watch Out for Sneaky Fees

Even though the card has no annual fee, there are still other charges that can catch you out if you’re not careful. These often include:

• Late payment fees
• Cash advance fees
• Foreign transaction fees
• Balance transfer fees

Cash advances are especially risky — they usually attract immediate interest and higher rates. Try to avoid using your credit card to withdraw cash unless it’s absolutely necessary.

5. Choose Rewards Only If You’ll Actually Use Them

Some no fee cards offer rewards like points, cashback, or supermarket loyalty programs. These can be great, but only if you genuinely use them.

For example:

• If you shop at the same supermarket every week, Flybuys-style points can add up
• If you don’t redeem points, they’re basically useless
• Don’t overspend just to earn rewards — that defeats the purpose

If rewards don’t suit your lifestyle, a low-interest no fee card may be the better option.

6. Be Smart With Balance Transfers

Many no fee cards offer introductory 0% balance transfer deals, which can help you pay off existing debt faster. However, these offers usually come with conditions.

Before using a balance transfer:

• Check how long the 0% period lasts
• Find out what the interest rate reverts to afterwards
• Make a clear plan to pay off the balance before the offer ends

Balance transfers can be a great tool — but only if you’re disciplined.

7. Keep Your Credit Limit Reasonable

Just because you’re approved for a high credit limit doesn’t mean you need it. A smaller limit can:

• Make spending easier to control
• Reduce temptation
• Lower the risk of long-term debt

Choose a credit limit that matches your monthly spending and repayment ability, not the maximum amount offered.

8. Use Your Card Regularly, But Responsibly

Using your no fee credit card regularly (and paying it off on time) can actually help build a positive credit history. This can be useful later if you apply for:

• A home loan
• A car loan
• A better credit card with more perks

Just remember — responsible use matters more than frequent use.

9. Review Your Card Once a Year

Your financial situation can change over time, so it’s worth reviewing your credit card at least once a year. Ask yourself:

• Am I still using this card regularly?
• Am I paying interest unnecessarily?
• Is there a better no fee option available now?

Switching cards when your needs change can save you money in the long run.

10. Treat “No Fee” as a Tool, Not a Free Pass

A no fee credit card is a great way to save money — but only if you stay in control. Avoid thinking of it as free money or an excuse to spend more than you can afford. Used wisely, it’s one of the most practical financial tools available.

🧠 Quick Recap: Best Picks by Type

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right no fee credit card isn’t just about avoiding the annual fee. It’s about how you spend, how often you pay off your balance, and which perks match your lifestyle.

Used wisely, no fee credit cards can be a fantastic way to manage your money without bleeding cash on unnecessary fees. Take a moment to compare your options, pick the card that fits your habits, and enjoy the flexibility and savings that come with a well-chosen no fee credit card.

No matter which card you choose, always pay on time and be mindful of other charges — that way, a “no fee” card really can stay cost-free.

📝 Note

Credit card features, interest rates, and fees can change over time and may vary depending on your personal circumstances. Always take the time to review the latest terms and conditions and compare options yourself before applying. What works well for one person may not be the best choice for someone else, so it’s important to choose a card that suits your own spending habits and financial situation.