Ad spend can quickly add up, making it essential to choose the best credit card for ad spend that maximises rewards and streamlines expense management.
For Australian entrepreneurs and business owners, digital advertising is a cornerstone of growth, with platforms like Google Ads, Meta, and Amazon driving customer engagement.
We spoke with different Aussie business owners to add their opinion of the top credit cards for advertising spend in 2025, tailored to the needs of savvy business owners looking to optimise their marketing budgets. Each card stands out in a specific category, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every type of entrepreneur.
1. American Express Business Explorer® Credit Card
Top pick for maximum rewards
For businesses prioritising high rewards on ad spend, the American Express Business Explorer® Credit Card is a standout choice. This card offers 3 points per $1 spent on advertising purchases with select partners like Google Ads, Meta, and Amazon Web Services, up to a generous cap.
New cardholders can earn 100,000 bonus Membership Rewards points by spending $4,000 within the first three months (offer valid until 2 December 2025, terms apply).
These points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or transferred to airline partners like Qantas or Velocity, offering flexibility for business owners who value versatile rewards.
The card’s $395 annual fee is offset by its robust earning potential and perks like complimentary travel insurance, making it ideal for high-spending marketers aiming to reinvest rewards into their business.
However, the points earn rate drops to 1 point per $1 after 200,000 points annually, so it’s best suited for businesses with moderate to high ad budgets.
Why it’s great? We asked one reader, called Callum from Bondi who runs an ecommerce store, “the high points earn rate on ad spend and flexible redemption options allows me to turn marketing expenses into strategic investments, whether for business meetings or international expansion.”
2. American Express Qantas Business Rewards Card
Top pick for Qantas loyalists
For entrepreneurs who frequently fly with Qantas or value frequent flyer points, the American Express Qantas Business Rewards Card is unmatched. This card earns 2 Qantas Points per $1 on Qantas products and services and 1.5 points per $1 on everyday business spend, including advertising on platforms like Google and Meta.
New cardholders can secure 150,000 bonus Qantas Points by spending $6,000 within three months (offer valid until 1 July 2025, terms apply). Additional perks include two Qantas Club Lounge invitations annually and a complimentary Qantas Wine Premium Membership, enhancing the travel experience for business owners on the go.
With a $450 annual fee, this card is a premium choice but delivers significant value for those leveraging Qantas rewards to offset travel costs.
Why it’s great? We asked Kyle who runs a personal training business in Sydney, “I have the ability to earn Qantas Points on ad spend and business purchases with this card, so it’s my favourite booking Qantas flights when having to go on domestic flights or even sneak off to Bali.”
3. ANZ Platinum Credit Card
Top pick for cashback enthusiasts
For business owners who prefer straightforward cashback over points, the ANZ Platinum Credit Card is a compelling option. This card offers up to $250 credit back to new cardholders who meet eligibility criteria, providing immediate value for ad spend.
While it doesn’t have a specific ad spend bonus category, its low ongoing annual fee (waived in subsequent years with minimum spend) and complimentary travel insurance make it a cost-effective choice for small businesses running lean marketing campaigns.
The card’s 0% foreign transaction fees are a bonus for entrepreneurs advertising on international platforms like Amazon or TikTok, where USD transactions are common.
Why it’s great? The simplicity of cashback and low fees appeals to startup founders and small business owners who want to keep ad spend costs predictable while enjoying practical perks like insurance and fee-free international transactions.
4. NAB Business Rewards Card
Top pick for expense management
For entrepreneurs seeking to streamline ad campaign tracking, the NAB Business Rewards Card excels in expense management. This card integrates seamlessly with accounting software like MYOB and Xero, providing detailed statements that simplify GST and tax reporting.
It earns up to 2.25 points per $1 on business spending, including advertising, and offers employee cards at no extra cost, allowing marketing teams to manage campaigns while keeping expenses centralised.
The card’s moderate annual fee and flexible credit limits cater to growing businesses, while its complimentary insurance adds peace of mind for business travel.
Why it’s great? The integration with accounting tools and employee card options make this card a game-changer for agency owners or businesses with multiple ad campaigns, ensuring every dollar spent is tracked and optimised.
5. Coles Rewards Mastercard
Top pick for no-fee simplicity
For small business owners or freelancers with modest ad budgets, the Coles Rewards Mastercard offers a no-frills solution. With no annual fee in the first year (and $99 thereafter), this card earns 1 Flybuys point per $2 spent on advertising and other purchases, redeemable for gift cards or cashback at Coles supermarkets.
New cardholders can save up to $50 monthly with Coles Plus Saver (free until February 2026, terms apply), making it a practical choice for entrepreneurs balancing business and personal expenses.
While the rewards rate is modest, the lack of upfront costs makes it accessible for startups testing digital advertising.
Why it’s great? Its low-cost entry point and everyday rewards suit solo entrepreneurs or micro-businesses dipping their toes into paid ads, offering savings on daily expenses without complex points systems.
How to make the right choice for your business
Choosing the best credit card for ad spend depends on your business’s priorities—whether it’s maximising rewards, earning travel points, securing cashback, managing expenses, or keeping costs low.
For high-spending agencies, the American Express Business Explorer offers unmatched rewards, while Qantas loyalists will gravitate toward the Qantas Business Rewards Card.
Cashback hackers can rely on the ANZ Platinum, and those needing expense tracking will appreciate the NAB Business Rewards Card.
For budget-conscious startups, the Coles Rewards Mastercard delivers simplicity without breaking the bank
Before applying, consider your ad spend volume, preferred reward type, and whether you’ll pay off the balance monthly to avoid interest. Always review terms and conditions, as eligibility criteria and fees apply.
By aligning your card choice with your business goals, you can turn advertising expenses into opportunities for growth, travel, or savings, to empower your entrepreneurial journey in 2025.
Disclaimer: Offers and terms are subject to change. Always check with providers for the latest details and eligibility requirements.
