Choosing the right credit card is not just about finding the lowest interest rate or the biggest rewards bonus.
The best card depends on how you use credit, whether you pay your balance in full each month, and which benefits matter most to you.
Three of Australia’s biggest credit card providers are Commonwealth Bank (CommBank), NAB and ANZ.
Each offers a range of low-rate, low-fee, rewards and premium credit cards, but their strengths differ depending on the type of cardholder you are.
If you’re trying to decide between Commonwealth Bank, NAB and ANZ, here’s how they compare.
Quick Verdict
Best Overall for Rewards: ANZ
ANZ consistently offers some of the strongest rewards and frequent flyer credit cards in the market.
In recent industry awards, ANZ won categories including rewards credit cards, Qantas frequent flyer cards and balance transfer cards.
Best for Existing Banking Customers: Commonwealth Bank
CommBank’s credit cards integrate seamlessly with its banking app, spending tools and Awards program, making them attractive for customers already using CommBank for everyday banking.
Best for Simplicity and Everyday Use: NAB
NAB offers a straightforward range of low-fee, low-rate and rewards cards that appeal to consumers looking for simplicity without excessive complexity.
Comparing Credit Card Categories
Low-Rate Credit Cards
If your goal is to minimise interest charges because you occasionally carry a balance, low-rate cards should be your priority.
Commonwealth Bank
CommBank’s Low Rate card offers a personalised purchase rate and focuses on affordability rather than rewards. It is designed for customers who may carry a balance from time to time.
NAB
NAB’s low-rate products are among its most popular offerings and generally compete strongly in the low-interest segment.
ANZ
ANZ’s Low Rate Credit Card frequently appears among Australia’s stronger balance transfer and low-rate products. In 2026, it received recognition in major credit card awards.
Winner: ANZ
Its combination of competitive rates and balance transfer offers gives it a slight edge.
Rewards Credit Cards
Rewards cards are designed for people who pay off their balance regularly and want to earn points on everyday spending.
ANZ Rewards Program
ANZ has built one of the strongest rewards portfolios among the major banks.
Benefits often include:
- Rewards points
- Frequent flyer partnerships
- Bonus points offers
- Premium travel benefits on higher-tier cards
Industry awards have consistently recognised ANZ’s rewards products as market leaders.
Commonwealth Bank Awards
CommBank offers its Awards program and the option to earn Qantas Points on eligible cards.
Its premium cards provide:
- CommBank Awards points
- Qantas earning options
- Travel insurance
- Airport lounge benefits on selected cards
The flexibility of choosing between Awards points and Qantas Points is a major advantage.
NAB Rewards
NAB Rewards cards provide access to points earning and travel benefits, although they generally receive less attention than ANZ’s flagship rewards products.
For many consumers, however, NAB offers a good balance between rewards and annual fees.
Winner: ANZ
For serious points collectors and frequent flyers, ANZ currently offers the strongest overall rewards proposition.
Low-Fee Credit Cards
If you want a credit card for emergencies or occasional spending, annual fees often matter more than rewards.
Commonwealth Bank
CommBank’s Low Fee card offers a relatively simple structure and fee waivers under certain conditions.
NAB
NAB’s low-fee cards are generally straightforward and designed for everyday users who want to minimise costs.
ANZ
ANZ frequently runs promotional offers that reduce or waive annual fees for new customers during introductory periods.
Winner: NAB
For consumers focused purely on keeping costs low, NAB often delivers a strong balance of affordability and simplicity.
Mobile Banking Experience
Commonwealth Bank
CommBank is widely regarded as one of Australia’s strongest digital banking providers.
Its app includes:
- Spending insights
- Budgeting tools
- Transaction categorisation
- Security controls
- Real-time notifications
For many users, the mobile experience alone is a major reason to choose a CommBank credit card.
NAB
NAB’s app has improved significantly in recent years and provides solid account management functionality.
ANZ
ANZ has also invested heavily in digital banking, although many customers still consider CommBank’s overall user experience to be the benchmark.
Winner: Commonwealth Bank
Which Bank Is Easier to Get Approved With?
There is no clear winner.
All three banks assess applications based on:
- Income
- Employment status
- Existing debts
- Living expenses
- Credit history
- Ability to repay
No major Australian bank guarantees approval, and eligibility requirements vary between individual credit card products.
Generally speaking:
- Entry-level cards are easier to qualify for than premium cards.
- Lower credit limits may improve approval chances.
- Strong repayment history remains one of the most important factors.
Which Bank Is Best for Different Types of Users?
Choose Commonwealth Bank If:
- You already bank with CommBank.
- You want a highly rated mobile banking experience.
- You prefer managing all financial products within one ecosystem.
- You value flexible rewards options.
Choose NAB If:
- You want a straightforward, low-cost credit card.
- You are less focused on rewards.
- You prefer simplicity over premium perks.
Choose ANZ If:
- You want to maximise rewards points.
- You frequently travel.
- You are interested in Qantas or Velocity points.
- You regularly take advantage of sign-up bonuses and promotions.
Final Verdict
There is no single “best” bank for credit cards because the right choice depends on your spending habits and financial goals.
For most rewards-focused users, ANZ is currently the strongest option, thanks to its award-winning rewards and frequent flyer cards.
For everyday banking convenience and app functionality, Commonwealth Bank stands out.
For low-fee simplicity and straightforward credit card options, NAB remains a strong contender.
The best approach is to choose the card that aligns with your spending habits rather than focusing solely on the bank behind it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bank has the best rewards credit card?
ANZ currently offers some of the most competitive rewards and frequent flyer credit cards among the major Australian banks.
Is Commonwealth Bank good for credit cards?
Yes. CommBank offers a broad range of low-rate, low-fee and rewards cards, supported by one of Australia’s strongest banking apps.
Does NAB offer rewards credit cards?
Yes. NAB offers rewards credit cards that allow customers to earn points on eligible spending and access travel-related benefits.
Which bank is easiest to get a credit card from?
There is no universally easiest bank. Approval depends on your income, expenses, debts and credit profile rather than the bank alone.
Should I choose a low-rate card or a rewards card?
If you regularly carry a balance, a low-rate card is usually the better option. If you pay your balance in full each month, a rewards card may provide greater value.