What is a Companion Card? Everything you need to know

For many people with disability, accessing the community can be challenging, not just physically, but financially too. That’s where the Companion Card comes in.

Designed to support people with significant support needs, the Companion Card helps reduce the cost of enjoying everyday activities by allowing a companion or carer to attend for free. Whether it’s a trip to the movies, a day at the zoo, or catching a game at the footy, the Companion Card makes social and recreational participation more affordable and inclusive.

In this blog, we’ll explain what the Companion Card is, who it’s for, how to apply, and how it fits in with your NDIS plan.

What is a Companion Card?

The Companion Card is a government-issued card that allows a person with disability to take a support person with them to participating venues and events at no extra cost. The cardholder pays for their own ticket, while their companion receives a second ticket for free.

It’s not a discount card or a concession card, it’s specifically designed for people who need lifelong attendant care to participate in community activities and cannot attend safely on their own.

The Companion Card is accepted at a wide range of locations, including:

• Cinemas
• Concerts and festivals
• Museums and galleries
• Sporting venues
• Public transport (in some states)
• Theme parks, zoos, and more

This card complements the supports and services already provided under your NDIS plan, especially if community access is a key goal. If you’re not sure what this includes, here’s a helpful guide on using your NDIS funding.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for a Companion Card, you must:

• Be a permanent resident of your state or territory
• Have a significant, permanent disability
• Be unable to participate in most community activities without attendant care support
• Demonstrate that this need for support is lifelong

The card is not means-tested, and it’s available to both children and adults who meet the criteria.

The Companion Card is available in every state and territory in Australia, but eligibility criteria and application processes may differ slightly. Be sure to check your relevant state’s Companion Card program for details. If you live in Western Australia, visit the WA Companion Card page to learn more and apply.

Where can you use it?

The Companion Card is recognised by thousands of organisations and businesses across Australia. Each state and territory maintains a list of affiliated venues and service providers that honour the card. Here’s how it works around the country:

• Western Australia: Accepted at a wide range of venues across Perth and regional areas. Public transport does not accept the card for fare discounts, but many recreational venues do. A list of WA venues is available on the Companion Card WA page.
• Victoria: Includes public transport and a strong network of arts and sports providers.
• New South Wales: Covers cinemas, stadiums, cultural institutions, and more.
• Queensland: Accepted at events and attractions statewide. Not valid on public transport.
• South Australia, ACT, NT, Tasmania: Each state has a local program with varying levels of participation.

Most major events and venues proudly display the Companion Card logo, and staff are trained to accept it. It’s a good idea to check the venue’s website or call ahead to confirm.

If you’re looking for ideas, you can also explore some great outdoor activities that are perfect for enjoying with a companion or support person.

Using your Companion Card alongside supports funded in your plan can open the door to even more meaningful community participation—and help make social and recreational activities more affordable and inclusive.

How to apply

The application process varies by state, but generally includes:

1. Completing an application form (available online from your state’s Companion Card website)
2. Providing supporting documentation, such as medical or support provider reports confirming your need for lifelong attendant care
3. Photo and signature for card identification
4. Submission by post or online, depending on your region

There is no cost to apply for or use a Companion Card.

If you’re in WA, visit the official Companion Card WA page for step-by-step application details and downloads.

How does it work with the NDIS?

The Companion Card is separate from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), but it can work alongside it. While the NDIS may fund supports like a support worker or Community Participation programs, the Companion Card helps cover the entry cost for that support person to attend a community activity with you.

For example, if your NDIS plan includes funding for a support worker to assist with social participation, your Companion Card ensures that the support worker can enter the event, movie, or venue with you free of charge.

This means your NDIS funds go further, and you can enjoy more of the community with fewer financial barriers. It also ensures that the support you receive can be used more efficiently to meet your goals, especially those funded in your plan for social and community access.

If you’d like to understand more about how this fits into your overall plan, take a look at our blog on using your NDIS funding or explore ideas for how to manage your NDIS funding effectively.

Why it matters

Social connection is essential for well-being. The Companion Card helps remove one more barrier for people with disability to participate in the community, enjoy new experiences, and connect with others. For families, it offers peace of mind that a loved one can attend events safely with their carer, without added cost.

At St Jude’s, we understand the importance of accessible, inclusive support that goes beyond the basics. That’s why our disability services focus not only on daily living support but also on community engagement, connection, and choice.

Whether you’re a support coordinator, NDIS participant, or family member, we’re here to help you explore all the supports and services available to support independence, participation, and dignity.

Your ticket to community, connection and confidence

The Companion Card is more than just a pass, it’s a key to connection, inclusion, and a more vibrant life for people with disability. By removing extra costs and simplifying access to community spaces, it makes it easier to enjoy life on your terms.

If you think you or your loved one may be eligible, we encourage you to apply. It’s one small card that can make a big difference.

Need help exploring your NDIS-funded supports or accessing community activities? Contact us to find out how we can support you or someone you care for.