The new National Companion Card Scheme is now fully operational in all States and Territories.

The Companion Card Scheme is part of an integrated whole of government response to support greater social inclusion for people with disability and their attendant carers.

It enables eligible people with disability dependent on full-time care to take a carer with them on transport and to sporting and entertainment events for the price of a single ticket.

Since its inception in Victoria in 2003, the program has expanded and now operates in all states and territories with over 1,900 industry affiliates participating in the scheme and 30,000 card holders benefiting.

“People with disability have the same right to get out and enjoy a concert or a football game as the rest of the community, and this scheme removes one of the obstacles in their way,” Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Bill Shorten said on launching the scheme.

More than 2,700 businesses support the Companion Card Scheme with a number of big name businesses recently joining including the AFL, Basketball Australia, Tennis Australia, the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Reading Cinemas, Circus OZ, Fitness First Australia, Circus Royale, Event Cinemas, Greater Union Cinemas, Birch Carrol and Coyle Cinemas, The Australian Ballet, Musica Viva and The Australian Rugby Union.

To be eligible to apply for a Companion Card, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be a permanent resident of Australia
• Have a permanent disability
• Due to the impact of the disability, require lifelong attendant care to be able to participate at most community venues and activities
• For more information on eligibility please refer to the relevant website for your State or Territory.

How to apply for a Companion Card

Companion Card applications are assessed by the state or territory you reside in. To apply for a Companion Card, choose your state or territory from the list below and download the application form. If you wish to receive more information on the application process, please use the contact details provided on your state or territory's Companion Card website.

Australian Capital Territory Phone: (02) 6207 1086

New South Wales Phone: 1800 893 044

Northern Territory Phone: 1800 139 656

Queensland Phone: 131304

South Australia Phone: 1800 667 110

Tasmania Phone: 1800 009 501

Victoria Phone: 1800 650 611

Western Australia Phone: 1800 617 337