No matter what your disability is, it’s important to be able to engage in social activities with confidence and capability, and sometimes to do this you need a support worker by your side. The Australian Government recognises that, with the companion card making it easier for people with disability to attend sport and entertainment events across Australia.
A companion card allows people with a significant and permanent disability who require attendant care support to attend many venues and activities without worrying about the cost of a support worker’s ticket or access.
It’s a scheme that puts movies, museums, art galleries and sport events within reach of more people.
The companion card has been implemented around Australia with each state and territory running its own scheme. However, the way they operate across states is very similar.
Here’s what you need to know.
Who qualifies as a companion?
A ‘companion’ is a person who provides you with attendant care. This can be anyone you choose - a partner, family member, support worker or friend. That means you can choose different people to accompany you to different social activities.
You can find out more about companion cards, learn if you’re eligible and search for participating businesses in your state below:
- ACT
- New South Wales
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- Western Australia
Who qualifies for a companion card?
To be eligible for a companion card, you must be a permanent Australian resident, demonstrate that you have a significant permanent disability that requires lifelong attendant care support, and show you are not able to attend venues or activities without that support.
Who is issued a companion card?
The companion card is held by the person with disability. It has your name and photo on it and when the holder buys a ticket at selected venues, a companion gets admitted free of charge.
Where can I use my companion card?
Companion cards can be used when purchasing a ticket from any business that is participating in the scheme. These can be searched on your state or territory companion card scheme website. These businesses will issue the cardholder with a second ticket for their companion at no charge.
While companion cards are recognised at associated businesses throughout Australia, it is generally worth mentioning the scheme whenever you purchase a ticket to an event and asking whether they’ll allow a companion to attend with you free of charge.
There are many businesses that may not be aware of the scheme, but will be happy to accommodate your companion. It’s also worth noting that you can use your card at participating businesses when travelling interstate.
