Westpac customers can now use their Altitude Points for credit card purchases, in a first for Australian banking.

The bank’s new pay with points program allows customers to use their points as money when paying with their Mastercard, without needing to go through the normal redemption process.

Customers can now see their points on the Westpac app and use them instantly, by switching on the pay with points function.

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“Pay with points is all about putting power back in our customers’ hands, giving them more convenience and choice and allowing them to use their points in ways that suit their lifestyle and preferences,” Westpac’s chief digital officer and managing director of Consumer Finance Jason Hair said.

“Our customers have been asking for this and I’m delighted we’ve now delivered it.

“We know Aussies are tightening their belts at the moment, but opening up the ability to use points towards everyday purchases gives a little bit of flexibility that we know will be appreciated by our customers.”

There are some excluded transactions, as detailed on Westpac’s website.

“You can’t use Pay with Points to repay your credit card balance, or for some other transactions, such as gambling, government payments or cash equivalent transactions,” Westpac said.

“However, you may redeem your points for a cashback, and this could be used to pay part or the full amount of your credit card balance.”

Customers can continue to redeem points through the Altitude Rewards Centre for gift cards, travel and cashback.

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