Weekly News Roundup: Jul 6 - Jul 12, 2026

This is a backfill for 6–12 July 2026, published on 12 October 2026. The two useful changes to note are an Amex lounge rule that took effect during the week and a Qantas fare fee reported during the week. These are historical updates, not offers to apply for today.

Amex Platinum lost one complimentary Centurion Lounge guest on 8 July

From 8 July 2026, Australian holders of The American Express Platinum Card could bring one complimentary guest, down from two, into the affected Centurion Lounges. The change also applies to Australian Platinum Business cards. The affected list includes Sydney and Melbourne, as well as specified lounges overseas. Corporate Platinum cardholders retained two complimentary guests.

American Express says each guest must have a confirmed booking on the same flight as the cardholder. During a connection, lounge access must be within five hours of the onward flight. If you counted on bringing two adults into a Centurion Lounge with one Platinum card, that part of the card's travel value changed on 8 July. Check the lounge rules for your card and airport before travel.

Qantas domestic change fees: $121 for tickets issued from 1 July

On 6 July, Australian Frequent Flyer reported that Qantas had raised the change fee for a domestic Economy Red e-Deal from $110 to $121. The fee applies to a date or time change and sits on top of any fare difference. The increase took effect on 1 July 2026, before this roundup week. Qantas' agency fee notice confirms the $121 domestic change fee for tickets issued on or after that date.

For a cash fare that you may need to move, the change fee is part of the cost of choosing the cheaper fare. Check the fare conditions shown for the specific ticket before you book or change it. This report does not establish a change to Classic Flight Reward fees.