Qantas announces detailed changes to its loyalty program effective August

As we have previously reported, some award rates and carrier-imposed surcharges will increase later this year, but the airline will also add additional award availability and new partner award tickets. The changes to Qantas Frequent Flyer will take effect Aug. 5.

While Qantas points are fairly easy to earn, the program has never been highly valuable for redemptions — and these changes will make it even less valuable overall. Given the news, some redemptions should be booked now, while others would be better made later this year.

Here''s what you need to know about the changes so you can plan accordingly.

Related: Qantas first-class flight review: The most comfortable way to fly Down Under

Higher prices and surcharges for Classic Flight Rewards

For bookings made from Aug. 5 onward, Qantas will increase the cost of its cheapest saver-level redemptions (called Classic Flight Rewards) and saver- level upgrades for Qantas-operated flights by 5% to 20%, depending on the route.

On the shortest domestic routes — like from Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Sydney Airport (SYD) — rates for Classic Flight Rewards will increase from 8,000 points to 9,200 points each way, with fees, taxes and surcharges of 55 Australian dollars (around $35) remaining the same.

The price increase will be more substantial on long-haul services, such as Qantas business-class flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to SYD. Bookings made from Aug. 5 onward will rise from 108,600 to 130,100 Qantas points each way, and fees, taxes and surcharges will increase from approximately $300 to $400.

Classic Flight Rewards are often hard to find, especially on long-haul routes in premium cabins. This has been especially apparent since the airline launched dynamically priced Classic Plus Flight Rewards in late last year. These award tickets are tied to the cash price of a flight and are much more expensive though more readily available.

Verdict: Book now.

Higher redemption rates for partner airlines

Qantas is a member of the Oneworld alliance meaning you can redeem Qantas points on partner airlines like American Airlines British Airways and Alaska Airlines The airline also partners with carriers outside Oneworld alliance such as Air France KLM and Emirates