What is a Companion Card?
Check Your Eligibility: Use our free Companion Card Checker to quickly assess your eligibility and find participating venues in NSW.
A Companion Card is a nationally recognised card that allows people with significant and permanent disabilities to bring a companion or carer to venues and events free of charge. Instead of paying for two tickets, you pay for one—your companion gets in free.
The program recognises that some people with disability require attendant care support to participate in community activities, and that the cost of a second ticket shouldn’t be a barrier to participation. Over 4,200 businesses and organisations across Australia accept the Companion Card, including cinemas, sporting venues, theatres, museums, zoos, and public transport services.
Whether you want to catch a movie, attend a concert, watch the footy, visit a museum, or take public transport, your Companion Card ensures your essential support person can accompany you without the added expense.
Who is Eligible for a Companion Card?
To be eligible for a Companion Card in any Australian state or territory, you must meet the following criteria:
Core Eligibility Requirements
- Australian Residency: You must be a permanent Australian citizen or resident
- Significant and Permanent Disability: You must have a significant disability that is permanent (lifelong)
- High Level of Support Needs: Your disability must require a high level of ongoing attendant care support to participate in community activities
- Lifelong Need: The need for attendant care support must be lifelong—not temporary or related to a condition that may improve
Important Clarifications
NDIS eligibility does not guarantee Companion Card eligibility. While there’s overlap, the Companion Card has its own assessment criteria focused specifically on your need for attendant care support at community venues and events.
The program is not income-tested. Your eligibility is based purely on your support needs, not your financial situation.
Age requirements vary by state. Most states allow applications from any age, but some have specific requirements for children.
Types of Support That May Qualify You
You may be eligible if you need a companion to assist with:
- Mobility support: Help moving around venues, navigating crowds, or using transport
- Personal care: Assistance with toileting, eating, or medication during outings
- Communication support: Help communicating with staff or understanding information
- Behavioural support: Support managing anxiety, sensory overload, or challenging situations
- Safety and supervision: Constant supervision due to cognitive impairment or safety risks
How to Apply for a Companion Card: State-by-State Guide
While the Companion Card is a national program with mutual recognition across all states and territories, you must apply through your own state or territory’s program. Each state manages its own application process.
New South Wales (NSW)
Website: service.nsw.gov.au
Phone: 1800 893 044
How to Apply:
- Visit the Service NSW website and check eligibility requirements
- Gather your supporting documentation (see below)
- Complete the online application form
- Upload your supporting documents and photographs
- Submit your application
Processing Time: Up to 12 weeks for fully completed applications
Important Notes:
- Email applications are no longer accepted
- Online applications are the preferred method
- You can visit a Service NSW centre for assistance
Victoria (VIC)
Website: companioncard.vic.gov.au
Phone: 1800 650 611
How to Apply:
- Download the application form from the website or request a hard copy by phone
- Complete Part A yourself (or have someone complete it on your behalf)
- Have your health professional complete Part B
- Obtain two passport-sized photographs signed on the back by your health professional
- Submit the completed application with all documentation
Processing Time: Minimum 8 weeks
Application Options:
- Online application
- Hard copy form (mail or in-person submission)
Queensland (QLD)
Website: qld.gov.au/disability/companion-card
Phone: 13 QGOV (13 74 68)
How to Apply:
- Complete the online application form on the Queensland Government website
- Provide required documentation and photographs
- Have your health professional complete their section
- Submit your application online
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks typically
South Australia (SA)
Website: sa.gov.au/companion-card
Phone: 1800 667 110
How to Apply:
- Download the application form or request one by phone
- Complete all sections with supporting documentation
- Have a health professional verify your information
- Submit via mail or online
Western Australia (WA)
Website: wacompanioncard.org.au
Phone: 1800 617 337
How to Apply:
- Download the interactive application form from the website
- Complete all required sections
- Attach supporting documentation
- Submit your application
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Website: act.gov.au/companion-card
Phone: (02) 6205 4333
How to Apply:
- Download the ACT Companion Card Application Form
- Follow the step-by-step instructions in the form
- Have your health professional complete their section
- Submit with all required documents
Tasmania (TAS)
Website: service.tas.gov.au
Phone: 1800 009 501
Northern Territory (NT)
Phone: (08) 8948 5400
Required Documents for Your Application
Regardless of which state you’re applying in, you’ll generally need the following:
1. Completed Application Form
Each state has its own form with two main sections:
- Part A: Completed by you (or your nominee/guardian)
- Part B: Completed by a health professional or service provider
2. Two Passport-Sized Photographs
Your photographs must be:
- Recent colour photographs
- Passport-sized (35mm x 45mm)
- Clear head-and-shoulder shots
- Against a plain background
- Signed on the back by your health professional
3. Proof of Identity
- Australian driver’s licence or state ID
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Medicare card
4. Proof of Residency
Documentation showing you live in the state you’re applying to.
5. Supporting Medical Documentation
This may include:
- Functional Capacity Assessment reports
- Diagnostic reports from specialists
- Medical reports from your GP or treating doctor
- Therapy reports from occupational therapists, physiotherapists, or other allied health professionals
- NDIS planning documents (if applicable)
- Specialist assessments relevant to your disability
Who Can Complete the Health Professional Section?
The following professionals can typically verify your application:
- General Practitioner (GP)
- Medical Specialist
- Occupational Therapist
- Physiotherapist
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Registered Nurse
- NDIS Support Coordinator (in some states)
- Disability Service Provider representative
The health professional must verify that you have a significant and permanent disability requiring lifelong attendant care support to participate in community activities.
How Long Does the Application Take?
Processing times vary by state:
| State/Territory | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| NSW | Up to 12 weeks |
| Victoria | Minimum 8 weeks |
| Queensland | 4-6 weeks |
| South Australia | 4-6 weeks |
| Western Australia | 4-6 weeks |
| ACT | 4-6 weeks |
| Tasmania | 4-6 weeks |
| Northern Territory | 4-6 weeks |
Tips to Speed Up Processing:
- Ensure all sections are fully completed
- Include all required photographs and documentation
- Have your health professional complete their section thoroughly
- Provide detailed information about your support needs
- Submit clear, legible copies of all documents
How Long is a Companion Card Valid?
Your Companion Card is a lifelong card. Once approved, you don’t need to reapply—the card simply needs to be renewed every 10 years to update your photograph and details.
Renewal is a simpler process than the initial application and typically doesn’t require a new health professional assessment unless your circumstances have significantly changed.
Where Can You Use Your Companion Card?
The Companion Card is accepted at over 4,200 venues and businesses across Australia, including:
Entertainment & Leisure
- Cinemas (Hoyts, Event, Village, and independent cinemas)
- Theatres and performing arts centres
- Concert venues
- Museums and art galleries
- Zoos and wildlife parks
- Theme parks and attractions
- Sporting venues (AFL, NRL, cricket, etc.)
- Bowling alleys and entertainment centres
Public Transport
- Buses
- Trains
- Ferries
- Light rail
- Some taxi services
Tourism & Recreation
- National parks
- Tourist attractions
- Swimming pools and aquatic centres
- Fitness centres (some locations)
- Botanical gardens
How to Identify Participating Venues
Look for the Companion Card logo displayed at ticket offices, entry points, or on venue websites. You can also:
- Search the online database on your state’s Companion Card website
- Call the venue directly to confirm they accept the card
- Check the venue’s accessibility information online
Using Your Card Interstate
Your Companion Card is recognised nationally. If you’re travelling to another state, your card will be accepted at participating venues in that state. This mutual recognition agreement means you only need one card, regardless of where you travel in Australia.
Tips for a Successful Application
1. Be Detailed About Your Support Needs
Don’t undersell your needs. The application requires you to demonstrate that you need attendant care support at most community activities. Be specific about:
- What tasks your companion helps you with
- Why you cannot participate without support
- Examples of situations where support is essential
2. Choose the Right Health Professional
Select someone who:
- Knows your condition well
- Can speak to your daily support needs
- Is willing to provide detailed information
- Has recent knowledge of your circumstances
3. Gather Strong Supporting Documentation
Include recent reports that specifically mention your need for ongoing support. Functional Capacity Assessments are particularly useful.
4. Don’t Assume NDIS Means Automatic Approval
The Companion Card has different criteria than the NDIS. Your application must demonstrate your specific need for attendant care support at community venues.
5. Apply Before You Need It
Processing can take up to 12 weeks. Apply well before any events or activities you’re planning to attend.
What If Your Application is Declined?
If your application is unsuccessful, you typically have the right to:
- Request a review of the decision
- Provide additional information or documentation
- Appeal through your state’s administrative processes
Common reasons for declined applications include:
- Insufficient evidence of lifelong support needs
- Condition not considered permanent
- Support needs not demonstrated for community participation specifically
- Incomplete application or missing documentation
If declined, consider gathering additional evidence from health professionals and reapplying.
Companion Card vs NDIS: What’s the Difference?
| Aspect | Companion Card | NDIS |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Free entry for companions at venues | Funding for disability supports and services |
| Eligibility | Based on need for attendant care at community venues | Based on permanent and significant disability affecting daily life |
| Benefits | Free companion entry at participating venues | Funding for support workers, therapy, equipment, etc. |
| Cost | Free to apply and use | Funded supports; may have plan-managed or self-managed costs |
| Coverage | Venue entry and transport | Wide range of disability-related supports |
You can have both! Many NDIS participants also hold a Companion Card. They serve different purposes and having one doesn’t affect your eligibility for the other.
How MD Home Care Can Help
Navigating disability support systems can be overwhelming. At MD Home Care, we help NDIS participants and their families access all available supports, including:
- Assistance with applications: Our Support Coordinators can help you gather documentation and complete your Companion Card application
- Support workers for outings: Once you have your card, we can provide support workers to accompany you to events and activities
- Community participation support: We help you get out and enjoy life, using your Companion Card at venues across Sydney and Melbourne
Our experienced team understands both the NDIS and complementary programs like the Companion Card. We’re here to help you access everything you’re entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose anyone to be my companion?
Yes! Your companion can be anyone—a family member, friend, paid support worker, or carer. The card doesn’t restrict who accompanies you, only that you need someone to accompany you.
Do I need to bring my companion to apply?
No. The application assesses your need for a companion, not a specific person. You apply individually.
Can I use my card for multiple companions?
The card covers one companion per outing. However, the companion can be different each time—it’s not linked to a specific person.
Is there a cost to apply?
No. The Companion Card is free to apply for and free to use.
Can children apply for a Companion Card?
Yes, in most states. Parents or guardians complete the application on behalf of children with significant disabilities requiring attendant care support.
What if I move interstate?
You’ll need to apply for a new card in your new state of residence. However, your existing card remains valid at participating venues nationally until you receive your new card.
Can I use my card overseas?
The Companion Card is an Australian program and is not recognised overseas. However, many international venues have their own accessibility programs—check with specific venues when travelling.
Conclusion
The Companion Card is a valuable resource that opens doors to entertainment, culture, sport, and community participation without the financial burden of paying for two tickets. If you have a significant and permanent disability requiring attendant care support, you may be eligible.
Key steps to get your Companion Card:
- Check the eligibility criteria for your state
- Gather your supporting documentation
- Have a health professional complete their section
- Submit your application with photographs
- Wait 4-12 weeks for processing
- Enjoy free companion entry at thousands of venues!
Don’t let the cost of a second ticket stop you from participating in the activities you love. Apply for your Companion Card today and start exploring everything your community has to offer.
Need help with your Companion Card application or looking for support workers to accompany you to events? Contact MD Home Care for assistance from our experienced team.
