When you own a credit card it is quite possible that at some point in time you will need to know how to increase credit limit. One of the first criteria that banks will look at, is your ability to pay a higher amount.

Whilst none of us like increasing our debts sometimes it is unavoidable. An unexpected crisis can occur. Possibly your work or home situation has changed and you need additional money. Maybe you just want a bit more cash in hand. Whatever your reasons most credit card companies have provisions that allow you to apply for an increased limit on your credit card. You will need to establish that you have the financial ability to pay the increased amount and are earning enough to be able to maintain the payments.

Guidelines on how to increase your limit

Westpac When you apply to Westpac they will examine your financial situation to check whether you meet the required criteria. Occasionally you will find if you have a good track record that you may be offered an automatic increase. The maximum amounts available are based on your existing type of card.

  • A maximum amount of $100,000 for Platinum credit cards
  • A maximum amount of $50,000 for Gold credit cards
  • A maximum amount of $30,000 for other credit cards

To apply for an increase you can complete an online application, which will advise whether you have been approved within a minute. Another alternative is to apply over the phone and you will be advised of the outcome by letter, in most cases sent the same day.

St.George To apply for a credit limit increase with St.George you are required to be the primary or joint cardholder. There is a six month waiting period between respective applications. The application can be made online, and you will receive an immediate response. When making an application make sure you have the following documents to hand:

  • The drivers license number for each person applying
  • The net weekly income for each person applying
  • Savings, assets, and investment information
  • Outstanding balances and repayment requirements on existing debts inclusive of credit cards.


Commonwealth Bank For existing NetBank customers current offers for how to increase credit limit can be found in their Manage Accounts section. If none are shown applications can be made online, by telephone or completing a form and posting it. You will be advised of the outcome by mail.

Bankwest Applying to Bankwest for an increased limit can be done either by telephone or completing a form and posting it in. Alternatively cardholders can apply in person at any local branch of Bankwest to find out how to increase credit limit.

Provided your existing account is in good order and your income meets the required level you shouldn’t encounter any difficulty in obtaining an increased credit limit. As a word of caution, after obtaining your increase keep your spending within budget so that you can always meet your repayments on time.