Virgin Australia is elevating its frequent flyer experience with the introduction of a brand-new Velocity Platinum Plus status, launching on 1 October 2025. Designed to reward the airline’s most loyal travellers, this exclusive new tier sits above the current Velocity Platinum level—offering even more premium benefits and recognition.
Why Platinum Plus Matters
With the race between Australia’s two major airlines heating up, Virgin Australia is narrowing the gap with Qantas by introducing this elite new status level, bridging the space between Velocity Platinum and the invitation-only Virgin Australia Beyond.
Velocity Platinum Plus Benefits at a Glance
Platinum Plus members will unlock a range of exclusive privileges beyond standard Platinum, including:
- Dedicated VIP Priority Hotline – Australian-based service for top-tier flyers
- 4 Complimentary Business Class Upgrades – Valid on both Economy Flex and Economy Choice fares (Platinum members are limited to Flex only)
- Companion Platinum Membership Gift – Now exclusive to Platinum Plus members
- Same-Day Free Flight Change (Fly Later) – A new perk reversing the Fly Ahead concept
- Top Priority for Seat Upgrades & Recognition
More benefits will be announced as the October launch approaches.
How to Qualify for Platinum Plus Status
Velocity’s move to a spend-based status model means that earning elite status now requires more strategy and commitment.
- 2,000 Status Credits Annually: 2,000 Status Credits annually to qualify and retain Platinum Plus
- 1,500 Credits from VA-Coded Flights: Out of the 2,000 required, 1,500 must come from Virgin Australia flights or codeshares carrying a VA flight number. Flights booked with partner airlines (e.g., those using Singapore Airlines’ SQ code) will not meet this criterion.
- Family Pooling Considerations: While status credits from any member within your Family Pool contribute to the overall 2,000 status credit target, only credits earned directly by the travelling member count toward the mandatory 1,500 on VA flights.
- Double Status Promotions: Yes, double status credit offers will contribute toward your Platinum Plus tally.
Changes to Existing Platinum Tier
From 1 October 2025, current Velocity Platinum members will see a few changes to their benefits:
- The ability to gift Platinum status will be removed, and made exclusive to Platinum Plus
- Gifting Companion Gold remains, but with new restrictions:
- Members must earn 650 of the 1,300 required status credits on Virgin Australia marketed flights themselves
This replaces the current easier threshold where Companion Gold is unlocked by earning 500 additional credits beyond the standard 800 required to retain Platinum.
Ready to Maximise Your Virgin Australia Experience?
If you’re a frequent flyer eager to climb the loyalty ladder or simply want to optimise your travel benefits, our team is here to help. At FirstClass.com.au, we specialise in securing the best fares and providing expert guidance on earning and maximising your Velocity status.
Contact us today or visit FirstClass.com.au to learn more about how you can be among the first to enjoy the enhanced perks of Virgin Australia’s Velocity Platinum Plus.
