SYDNEY, 19 March 2026 – Qantas has announced a significant tightening of its lounge access policies, with two major changes set to take effect from 1 July 2026. The adjustments specifically target the sharing of complimentary lounge passes and strip lounge access from a large group of Jetstar passengers, marking one of the most substantial rollbacks of lounge benefits in recent years.
New Rules for Sharing Lounge Passes
From 1 July, the ability to gift a complimentary lounge invitation to a friend or family member will be severely restricted. Qantas has confirmed that “Complimentary Lounge Invitations will only be transferrable to someone travelling on the same flight as you.” This change closes a popular loophole where members could give their single-use passes to others travelling on a different itinerary. The move is seen as an effort to reduce lounge overcrowding and increase the exclusivity of the benefit for the primary holder.
International Jetstar Access Axed
In a parallel change, Qantas will remove lounge access for its highest-tier frequent flyers and Qantas Club members on most international Jetstar flights. Effective the same date, Platinum, Gold, and Qantas Club members will no longer have access to Qantas lounges when flying on international services operated by Jetstar, unless the flight is marketed under a Qantas (QF) flight number. This removes a key perk for many travellers who booked onto Jetstar’s long-haul network to Asia and beyond, expecting to enjoy Qantas lounge facilities before departure.
Types of Qantas Lounge Passes & Access
Understanding the different types of lounge access is key to navigating these new rules. The following table outlines the primary methods, based on current Qantas policy.
| Access Type | Description | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Visit Lounge Pass | A one-off pass that can be purchased or received as a benefit. | Managed via the Qantas website or app. Subject to the new transfer rules from 1 July 2026. |
| Complimentary Lounge Invitation | A single-visit pass provided as a Frequent Flyer membership benefit or via partner credit cards. | Commonly earned through credit cards like the Qantas American Express Ultimate Card. From 1 July, can only be given to someone on your same flight. |
| Qantas Club Membership | Paid annual membership providing unlimited lounge access for the member. | Includes guesting privileges per the membership terms. International lounge access for members on Jetstar flights is being removed from 1 July 2026. |
| Frequent Flyer Status | Access granted via Platinum or Gold tier status when flying Qantas or partner airlines. | International access for Jetstar flights (non-QF marketed) will be cut from 1 July 2026. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is changing on 1 July 2026?
Two main changes are coming: Firstly, complimentary lounge invitations can only be transferred to someone travelling on the same flight as you. Secondly, Platinum, Gold, and Qantas Club members will lose Qantas lounge access on international Jetstar flights, unless it’s a Qantas-marketed (QF) service.
Can I still use my Qantas lounge pass if I’m not flying?
No. All single-visit lounge passes and complimentary invitations are only valid when you have a departing flight on Qantas or Jetstar. The new rule further stipulates that if you wish to give your pass away, the recipient must be on your exact same flight.
I have a Qantas Club membership. How am I affected?
Your core membership benefits remain, but a significant restriction is being added. You will no longer be able to access any Qantas lounge before an international Jetstar flight, which was a previous benefit. Your guest access rules for Qantas-operated flights are unchanged.
Will these changes affect my existing, unused lounge passes?
Yes. Any complimentary lounge invitation in your account will be subject to the new transfer rules from 1 July 2026, regardless of when it was issued. It is advisable to use or assign any passes before this date if you wish to gift them under the old, more flexible rules.
Where can I manage my lounge passes?
Lounge passes and complimentary invitations are managed through your Qantas Frequent Flyer account on the Qantas website or via the Qantas App. This is where you can view, activate, or assign them to an upcoming flight.