Does a bad credit history impact my ability to get a Wizitcard?

A bad credit history can affect your application for a Wizitcard, but it's not the only thing we look at. Every application is subject to our eligibility criteria and a credit assessment, which includes a credit check. We consider more than just your credit history.

Whether you’ve had a missed payment in the past or are working past a credit hiccup, understanding your credit file is the first step to taking control. Most of what follows applies to any Australian credit card, not only ours.

Are there no credit check credit cards with instant approval in Australia?

No, under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009, lenders must check that you can afford a card before they approve it. These responsible lending laws mean every application includes a credit check.

When a card says "instant", it usually means a quick decision, or a digital card you can use as soon as you're approved. Neither one skips the check.

Be wary of ads for guaranteed credit card approval, like "$5,000 for anyone". Scamwatch warns that loan scammers sometimes copy the names and licence details of real lenders. Some “no check” offers turn out to be prepaid cards, which only hold money you’ve loaded yourself.

What lenders see when they check your credit

A credit check means the lender reads your credit report. It shows the credit you've applied for, how you've paid it back and any defaults. A default is a debt of $150 or more that’s at least 60 days overdue, which the lender has listed on your report.

The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) says repayment history stays on your report for two years. Defaults and credit enquiries stay for five years, so an old slip-up does drop off in time.

Your credit score is a number based on that report, and credit reporting bodies like Equifax and Experian each work out their own. Equifax scores run from 0 to 1,200, and each body sets its own bands, so a score of 500 can mean different things. Since 1 April 2026, Experian’s report also includes the data illion used to hold.

Can you get a credit card with a bad credit history?

Possibly, although poor credit history could make approval harder. Lenders also look at your income, your regular bills and any existing debts, like credit card debt or a car loan.

In Australia, there's no official list of credit cards for bad credit. Each lender sets its own rules, and some put more weight on what you earn and spend today.

Try not to apply for lots of cards at once. Each one can show up as an enquiry on your credit report. Lots of enquiries close together can make lenders wary.

Steps to take before you apply

If you're working out how to get a credit card with bad credit, start with your own report. A little prep can save you a knock-back.

1. Get your free credit report. The OAIC says you can ask Equifax and Experian for a free one each every three months. You can also check your Experian credit score and report for free any time through the ClearScore app.

2. Fix any mistakes. If something on your report is wrong, ask the credit reporting body to correct it. It won't cost you anything.

3. Work out what you can repay. Make sure the minimum monthly repayment fits your budget after the essential bills and groceries.

4. Read the key facts sheet. It shows the card's interest rates and fees, including late payment fees, so you know what you're signing up for.

What happens if your application is declined?

A lender may not tell you exactly why your credit card application was declined. Start by checking your credit file for anything you don't recognise. If you were refused credit in the past 90 days, the OAIC says you can ask for a free copy of your credit report.

Give it some time before you apply again. Jumping straight to other credit products, like a personal loan or another credit card, adds more enquiries to your report which could impact your credit score.

More questions about applying with bad credit

How long does a credit card application take?
It depends on the credit provider and how complete your details are. Some online forms give you a quick answer, but it takes longer if the lender needs more papers. Having your ID, income details and online banking login handy can help speed things up.

Does applying for a credit card affect my credit score?
It can. Each credit card application shows up as an enquiry on your credit report, where it stays for five years. One application on its own is a small mark, but several in a short time can lower your credit rating.

What credit score do I need for a credit card?
There's no single minimum credit score for credit cards in Australia. Each lender sets its own criteria, and most look at your current income and spending too. A bad credit score or no credit history doesn't rule you out, but it can mean fewer options.

Can I get a digital credit card with bad credit?
You can apply, but a digital credit card goes through the same credit check as a plastic one. Lenders weigh bad credit alongside your income and expenses, so the answer depends on the lender. Once approved, you can usually start using it on your phone straight away.

How does a digital credit card work?
A digital credit card sits in your phone's digital wallet, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay. You tap your phone at the checkout or pay online, and each purchase comes off your credit limit. You then repay what you've spent, the same as a plastic card.

How Wizitcard assesses your application

As part of our responsible lending obligations, Credit Corp Financial Services Pty Limited trading as Wizit (Australian Credit Licence 400871) runs a credit check on every Wizitcard application. You'll need to be 18 or over, a resident in Australia and earning a regular income. We also look at 90 days of your bank transactions, shared securely through Experian Open Data Solutions or an accredited open banking provider.

If approved, Wizitcard gives you a limit of up to $5,000, with a minimum credit limit of $500. It’s interest-free forever, with fixed repayments, a simple $19 monthly fee and no annual fee. The monthly fee isn’t charged if, for the entire statement period, your account had a zero balance and the card was not used.

Once approved, add the card to Apple Pay or Google Pay and shop straight away. If we decline your application and your situation changes, you can apply again after 30 days.

This information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal financial situation, objectives, or needs. You should consider whether this product is appropriate for you and seek independent advice if necessary.