What is an NDIS companion card? - Maple Services
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What is an NDIS companion card?

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What is an NDIS companion card?
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What is an NDIS companion card?

Have you ever wanted to attend a concert of your favourite band, spend the afternoon roaming an art gallery or museum or noticed an interesting event nearby but the expense of two tickets has put you off? The National Companion Card is like having a golden ticket to fun and adventure for people living with disabilities.

The Companion Card in Australia allows people with significant and permanent disabilities to bring a companion along to participating venues and events at no extra cost. A companion can be anyone of your choosing as long as they can provide the attendant care you need during your visit.

At Maple, our ultimate goal is to cultivate an inclusive and accessible society that embraces diversity and supports individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. We believe that by welcoming and including all walks of life in our communities, we enrich our collective experience and understanding. For this reason, we want you to have all the information and resources you need to live your life to the fullest. 

What is the purpose of the NDIS companion card?

No matter your ability, it’s important for us all to be able to engage in social activities with as much ease as possible. To do this, people living with significant disabilities often need a friend or social worker with them for high-level support.

Imagine being able to attend a concert, museum or theme park and having your best friend, family member or trusted support worker right by your side, sharing in the joy and excitement without any financial burden. That’s the beauty of the companion card.

It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about inclusion and accessibility. The companion card NDIS opens doors to social experiences and opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible to people with disabilities. It promotes independence, freedom and the right to participate fully in community life. 

How do NDIS companion cards work?

The companion card operates as a form of identification that allows people with significant and permanent disabilities to bring a companion along to certain venues and events, free of charge. 

When cardholders present their companion card, it indicates to the venue their need for assistance due to their disability. The venue you are visiting has to have opted into this scheme for you to benefit from it, so be sure to check their eligibility before you go. Once you have paid the full amount required for one ticket, the second ticket is issued for free.

Who can be a companion?

The reason your companion can join you during the event or venue for free is to ensure your safety, well-being, and enjoyment. That person can be anyone of your choosing, a partner, a family member, a support worker or a friend as long as they are able to provide you with attendant care during the event. Attendant care includes help with mobility, self-care, decision-making or communication.

It’s about making sure that people with disabilities have the support they need to fully participate in society and enjoy their time to the fullest, of course, that also means your companion can enjoy themselves too.  

Who is eligible for an NDIS companion card?

Eligibility for the National Companion Card varies slightly depending on the state or territory you are in. Generally, individuals who meet the following criteria may be eligible:

 

  • You have a significant and permanent disability that impairs your ability to participate in community activities without attending care, support or supervision.
  • You require the assistance of a companion to access and participate in venues, events or activities due to your disability.
  • You are a resident of the state or territory where you are applying for the Companion Card scheme.

 

It’s important to check the guidelines and criteria set by the government authority in your area. Additionally, you may need to provide documentation or evidence of your disability and support needs when applying for the Companion Card. 

You can find out if you’re eligible, see participating businesses and apply for the Companion Card in your state in the links below:

How Maple can help

At Maple, we understand that every one of us brings unique perspectives, strengths and contributions, and through our collaboration and mutual respect, we can learn from each other and grow. By prioritising inclusivity and accessibility, we create environments where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to fully participate and thrive. 

Maple offers NDIS support coordination to assist support workers and their clients in applying for a Companion Card. We can offer personalised guidance and ongoing assistance throughout the application process. With Maple’s support, support workers can navigate the application smoothly, ensuring that their clients can access the benefits of the Companion Card with ease.

The Companion Card is a great way for people living with disabilities to participate more in ticketed events and venues. If you need further information about applying or using your Companion Card, feel free to reach out to one of our team members.