American Express Closes Sydney and Melbourne Centurion Lounges for Renovations

American Express has announced the temporary closure of its Centurion Lounges in Sydney and Melbourne for refurbishment. Starting on 6 October 2026, both lounges will undergo renovations, with the Sydney location reopening on 20 October and the Melbourne lounge following on 21 October. The closures come nearly a decade after the lounges first opened between 2018 and 2019, though details on the scope of the renovations have not been disclosed.

During the two-week shutdown, American Express has not provided a direct replacement lounge for its cardholders. Some card tiers may access Plaza Premium locations, while Qantas Amex Ultimate cardholders could potentially use Qantas lounge invites if eligible. Travelers are strongly advised to confirm their access rights before departure to avoid disruptions.

In addition to the closures, American Express has adjusted guest policies for Plaza Premium lounges effective 1 October 2026. The changes include limiting guest access and restricting Priority Pass to primary cardholders, reflecting broader tightening of lounge privileges across Amex’s Australian portfolio. These adjustments may impact travelers who rely on these benefits during peak travel periods.

Cardholders affected by the closures should review their card terms and plan accordingly to ensure uninterrupted access to premium airport facilities during the brief but total shutdown of Centurion Lounges.