HSBC closing retail business in Australia over next 18 months

[THR]

Likewise, for April. Quite a generous calculation... seems like they may have calculated from the actual payment date, rather than the statement / charge date of the fee, and to the announcement date rather than today. Happy to have a cool $300 back in my pocket.

I got $374 back on my Star Alliance card … agree that was quite generous given my renewal year is around March.

 

[kpc]

The closing of the Star Alliance credit card on November 18 is quite quick! I paid my $499 annual membership on 27/2/26 so should get a pro rata refund.

https://www.hsbc.com.au/content/dam/hsbc/au/docs/help/star-alliance-credit-card-closure-communication-12aug26.pdf

More info here: Credit Card Offers - HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card: Fast-Track to Star Alliance Gold Status

My Star Alliance Gold with Aeroplan expires on 31.12.26 so i wonder how long after 18 November 2026 we get to keep this status!

I just noted I got a pro rata $291.09 refunded on my annual fee of $499 which I paid on 27.2.26. So if the card is cancelled on Nov 18, the refund calculation is in my favour.

Based on other's discussion, I assume I will get to keep my *Alliance Gold with Aeroplan til 31.12.26 when it is due to expire. Better fly more Va flights and use the Virgin lounges (not that great btw) for the rest of this year.

 

[Supersonic Swinger]

I just noted I got a pro rata $291.09 refunded on my annual fee of $499 which I paid on 27.2.26. So if the card is cancelled on Nov 18, the refund calculation is in my favour.

Your refund covers the period from 12 August to 27 February next year. The fee free came into effect from 12 August as per the FAQs - https://www.hsbc.com.au/content/dam/hsbc/au/docs/help/credit-card-closures-faqs.pdf

12 August 2026 – Annual fee
No annual fee will be charged from 12 August 2026.
We’ll refund any annual fees already charged to your account in the last year (from 13 August 2025) on a prorata basis.
The refunds will be processed by 12 October 2026, provided your account is still open at the time.