Frequently asked questions
Who is a companion?
A companion is any person who accompanies a cardholder for the purpose of providing significant attendant care support.
The cardholder’s chosen companion may be a paid or unpaid assistant or carer, friend, or family member or partner.
What is attendant care support?
Attendant care support includes significant assistance with mobility, communication, self-care or learning, where the use of aids, equipment or alternative strategies does not enable the person to carry out these tasks independently. The need for attendant care support must be, or likely to be, lifelong.
It does not include the companion providing only social company, reassurance or encouragement.
What is a companion ticket?
A companion ticket is a second ticket or admission issued for a companion, at no charge, when it is essential for the cardholder to receive attendant care support in order to participate at a venue or activity.
What is an affiliate?
An affiliate is any business or organisation that charges an admission or participation fee, and has formally registered with the Companion Card program.
Organisations that do not issue tickets directly may also affiliate with the program. For example the venue owner may have a condition that all venue users comply with Companion Card terms and conditions.
Who can help me complete an application form?
You may seek assistance from any person to complete your application form.
For children or adults unable to sign the applicant declaration and authorisation, the applicant's formal or informal decision maker (pursuant to the Guardianship and Administration Act 2000 or the Powers of Attorney Act 1998) may sign on their behalf. This may be a legal guardian, parent, or other family member or close friend who is not in a paid role.
A service provider or health professional must also sign your form.
Who are the relevant professionals that can sign an application form?
Service providers
A service provider must have access criteria that match the four eligibility criteria for the Companion Card program. The applicant must currently receive or have been approved to receive this service. The form must be signed by a Manager (or equivalent) of that service.
Specified Health Professional (who is known to you):
- Registered Medical practitioner
- Registered Nurse
- Registered Physiotherapist
- Registered Psychologist
- Registered Occupational Therapist
- Registered Speech and Language Pathologist
- Qualified Social Worker eligible for membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander health worker (conditions apply)
Can I use my Companion Card for proof of age?
No, the Companion Card is not a proof of age card; it only identifies the cardholder as a person who, due to their disability, always requires attendant care support from a companion to participate at most community venues and activities.
The application process does not require a copy of your birth certificate or other proof of age documentation and your date of birth is not displayed on the card.
I can attend most places by myself but some venues are difficult because of their accessibility. Should I apply for a card to use at a specific venue only?
No, the card was not developed to compensate for the lack of accessibility of a specific venue. The Companion Card is issued to people who require attendant care support to participate at most venues and activities.
What if my condition is episodic?
The Companion Card program will consider an application from a person whose condition is episodic - for example, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy or schizophrenia. Please provide information in your application about the frequency and impact of episodes and why attendant care support is needed.
The Companion Card will not be issued for infrequent or unexpected events such as allergic reactions, falls or medical emergencies.
My child is only 4 years old. Are there age limits on who can apply for a Companion Card?
No, an age limit does not apply. However, generally children up to a certain age require a parent/supervisor to perform functions similar to that of a companion. The card can only be issued to a child applicant where the companion is required due to the disability and not due to age alone. It must be demonstrated that a child’s need for attendant care support is lifelong or likely to be lifelong. If a child’s condition will improve, and he or she is likely to become independent, the child will not be eligible for a card.
I have recently sustained an injury and now require attendant care. I am undergoing treatment and therapy in the hope that I will regain my independence in the future. Am I eligible?
A Companion Card will not be issued for a temporary impairment where it is likely that you will regain your independence as a result of your rehabilitation or recovery program. It is best to wait until you have completed your rehabilitation or recovery program to determine if you have an ongoing need for attendant care support.
In situations where companion support is required but a person does not qualify for a Companion Card, you should attempt to negotiate with the operators of the activity or venue.
Does working full-time prevent me receiving a Companion Card?
No, there is no income or asset test for a Companion Card.
I live outside Queensland. Can I apply for a Queensland Companion Card?
No, applications for a Companion Card are made to the state or territory of your principal residence.
Participating businesses will recognise cardholders from other states and territories.
I regularly provide attendant care. Can I apply for a Companion Card?
No, cards are only issued to a person with a disability who has met the eligibility criteria, and the cardholder must be present when purchasing a companion ticket. The cardholder may choose his or her companion.
Cards are also not issued to groups, facilities or organisations.