Best credit card for self employed in Australia : Being self-employed within Australia provides both financial hurdles and many independence advantages. No matter which type of self-employment you pursue being a sole trader, freelance worker or small business owner your ideal credit card must handle cash flow and expense tracking while earning reward benefits.
This guide identifies the top credit card choices specifically designed for self-employed Australians based on their application approval process and fees together with interest rates and rewards in 2025.
💡 What to Look for in a Credit Card If You’re Self-Employed
Several essential features must be considered before deciding on a credit card.
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Low Annual Fees: You don’t want to pay too much just to keep the card open.
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Low Interest Rates: Especially if you carry a balance.
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Rewards or Cashback: You should get something back for your business spending.
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Easy Expense Tracking: Some cards offer tools or apps to track your purchases.
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Eligibility for Sole Traders: Not all cards welcome self-employed applicants—choose one that does.
🌟 Top 5 Credit Cards for Self-Employed in Australia – 2025 Picks
1. American Express Business Explorer® Credit Card
Why It’s Great:
This credit card fits nicely into the spending habits of independent workers who need it for their frequent work trips while handling significant business outlays.
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✔️ Business holders can earn two Membership Rewards points with every eligible dollar they spend.
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✔️ Travel insurance included
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✔️ Up to 55 days interest-free
Annual Fee: $149
Income Requirement: Self-employed income with at least 18 months of records
Extras: Expense management tools, integrations with MYOB & Xero
2. ANZ Low Rate Credit Card
Why It’s Great:
Simple and reliable, ideal for sole traders or freelancers on a budget.
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✔️ Low purchase interest rate (around 12.49%)
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✔️ One of the lowest annual fees in Australia
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✔️ Secure, easy to apply, and perfect for everyday use
Annual Fee: $58
Self-employed individuals should consider this card because it features a basic yet low-cost credit card design.
3. NAB Low Fee Business Card
Why It’s Great:
Business owners looking for an expense-linked credit card can consider this option as their strong solution.
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✔️ No annual fee in the first year
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✔️ Simple expense reporting tools
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✔️ Easy approval process for ABN holders
Annual Fee: $60 (waived in year one)
Eligibility: ABN and business verification needed
4. Commonwealth Bank Business Awards Credit Card
Why It’s Great:
This business credit card links business prize features with frequent flyer rewards and purchase-point benefits.
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✔️ The awards point currency matches dollar spending resulting in 1 point earned for each dollar spent.
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✔️ Track spending via NetBank and CommBank app
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✔️ Suitable for contractors and small business owners
Annual Fee: $100
Good For: Those who want to build rewards while running a business
5. Westpac BusinessChoice Rewards Platinum
Why It’s Great:
Excellent for self-employed people with multiple expenses across categories.
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✔️ Up to 55 days interest-free
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✔️ Earn Qantas or Altitude points
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✔️ Add extra cards for employees
Annual Fee: $150
Income Requirement: Show proof of self-employed income for 12+ months
🧾 Documents You May Need to Apply as Self-Employed
When applying for a credit card in Australia as a self-employed person, be ready with:
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✅ Your ABN (Australian Business Number)
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✅ Business income proof (last 1–2 years)
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✅ Tax returns or bank statements
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✅ Valid ID and address proof
🧠 Pro Tip: Improve Your Approval Chances
Here’s how you can make it easier to get approved:
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✔️ Keep a good credit score (650+ is a safe range)
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✔️ Maintain clean bank statements
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✔️ Declare all sources of self-employed income
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✔️ Apply only for one card at a time
🏆 Final Thoughts: Which Card Should You Choose?
New freelancers who are solo traders should consider either the ANZ Low Rate or NAB Low Fee card which offers an attractive low-cost business solution.
Read More: Best Credit Card for UPSC Aspirants with No Income in 2025
Amex Business Explorer or Westpac Business Choice Rewards would be your best choices when you need both higher spending limits along with business-oriented rewards.
Your choice of business credit card aligns with your financial needs and financial position toward your objectives. The above options provide you with quality starting points.
🔍 FAQs – Credit Cards for Self-Employed in Australia
Q1. Can I get a credit card if I’m a freelancer in Australia?
Yes! Many credit cards accept self-employed people, including freelancers and contractors. You’ll just need proof of income.
Q2. What’s the easiest credit card to get for self-employed?
Cards like ANZ Low Rate and NAB Low Fee have simple requirements and are often easier to get approved for.
Q3. Do I need an ABN to apply?
Usually yes, especially if you’re applying for a business credit card.
Q4. Will a business credit card affect my personal credit score?
Yes, if it’s tied to your personal name or you give a personal guarantee.
Braj Verma is a resident of Rajgarh in Madhya Pradesh and is a content writer and freelancer by profession. He has a degree in Political Science from Barkatullah University, Bhopal. He has expertise in subjects like credit cards, banking, loan, insurance, political analysis and digital marketing.