QANTAS: Brisbane lounge access changes

If you’re flying internationally from Brisbane with Qantas or partners like Cathay Pacific, Fiji Airways or Malaysia Airlines, your usual airport routine in Brisbane has changed. Lounge access is now before security, and not after.

Lounge access is now before security

From April 14, 2026, through early September 2026, the Brisbane International Qantas Lounge has a temporary new entrance. It’s located before security, near check-in counters 1 and 2. The change is due to essential upgrade works on the lounge’s escalators and lifts.

If you follow your normal routine, check in, clear security, and then look for the lounge, you won’t be able to access it. You must enter the lounge before passing through security.

You’ll still need to clear security afterwards

This flips the usual airport flow, so you’ll need to allow extra time and avoid leaving the lounge too late, particularly during busy periods when security queues can build quickly.

Jetstar access cut earlier than planned

From April 18, most travellers on international Jetstar flights will no longer be able to access the Brisbane Qantas International Lounge. That’s even if they hold Qantas Gold, Platinum or Qantas Club membership. This cut-off was previously planned for July 1, but has been brought forward due to the upgrade works.

Access will still be available if you’re travelling on a Qantas codeshare flight operated by Jetstar, or if you’ve booked a Jetstar Business Max fare.

2PAXfly Takeout

These changes are part of broader airport and lounge upgrades in Brisbane. It’s not an ideal solution, disrupting passenger flows for five months, but needs must. It’s just going to impact people’s ability to pass that last security hurdle before relaxing in the lounge. Now, that relaxation is going to be curtailed by knowing that you still have to pass security.