I received "the letter" today. I am now trying to figure out what to do re: points maximization on my cc's. We spend a lot each month on cards (much more than the $7,500 cut off where earning drops to .5 points) and I use my AMEX where ever I can (without penalty in the form of a % of purchase prices). I'm relatively new to ANZ black as I was with Qantas Ultimate AmEx for the $495/year fee - which I had justified for the travel insurance coverage (I never managed to use the free ticket). But when I learned I could get the ANZ black VISA/AMEX package for free because I bank with ANZ and have the type of account where it is a free benefit, I opted to cancel the Ultimate and go with the black card package (I think it was free - or significantly less than what I was paying for Ultimate card). Note - shortly after the switch, I developed a medical condition the result of which that I cannot rely on a card's medical coverage due to this now pre-existing condition unless i jump through hoops beforehand (and I haven't yet tried that so even consulting with the carrier in advance and paying an extra insurance premium may not have worked).
Bottomline question - we spend a lot of money on cc each year - I have racked up a significant number of points that when added to my points earned by my business travel result in a nice number to have in the FF account (we use them for upgrades on personal overseas trips). What is my best option to replace the AMEX? I am not sure that I'm willing to go back to a $495 fee given I just don't seem to use that single domestic capital city RT ticket. Ideas or discussions I should look at?