The QLD Companion Card: Making Community Access More Inclusive
- carli215
- Sep 17, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 16
Getting out into the community should not cost more just because you need support to do it.
That is exactly why the Queensland Companion Card exists. It helps reduce the financial barriers to community participation for people who require ongoing attendant care support.
Here is a simple breakdown of how it works, who it is for, and how to apply.
What Is the QLD Companion Card?
The Queensland Companion Card is designed for people with disability who need a support person to attend community activities.
If you hold a Companion Card, your support person (called a companion) can attend participating venues free of charge when accompanying you.
This means:
Your companion receives a free ticket
Your companion can travel with you on public transport at no cost
No additional booking or entry fees for the companion
The card is issued to the person with disability, not the support worker or carer, and is valid for five years.
Who Counts as a Companion?
A companion is someone who provides attendant care support so you can safely and meaningfully participate in the community.
This may include:
A disability support worker
A family member or friend
An unpaid or paid carer
A partner
Attendant care support means hands-on assistance with things like mobility, communication, personal care, or learning.
It does not include someone who is there only for social company or encouragement.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Queensland Companion Card, you must:
Be a lawful Australian resident living in Queensland
Have a disability
Be unable to participate in most community activities without attendant care support
Need, or be likely to need, lifelong attendant care support
The Companion Card is not income-tested. You can apply whether or not you receive NDIS funding or other disability supports.
Who Is Not Eligible?
You may not be eligible if:
Your need for support is temporary
You only need a companion for social reassurance
You’re affected by venue inaccessibility rather than your disability
You’re a child whose care needs are typical for your age
The Companion Card is for people whose need for assistance is lifelong and directly related to their disability.
Where You Can Use Your Companion Card
The Companion Card is accepted at hundreds of venues and services across Queensland, including:
Cinemas, theatres, and live performances
Sporting events and stadiums
Tourist attractions and community events
Local shows and festivals
It is also valid on:
Queensland Rail and Traveltrain services
Translink public transport across Queensland
Many venues display the Companion Card logo. If you do not see it, it is still worth asking, as some businesses honour the card even if it is not advertised.
If you are travelling interstate, the Companion Card is recognised nationally at venues that accept the National Companion Card.
📝 How to Apply
You can apply through the Queensland Government website or by contacting Smart Service Queensland.
📞 Phone: 13 QGOV (13 74 68)
✉️ Email: cardservices@smartservice.qld.gov.au
🌐 Apply online: Queensland Companion Card Application
The application process includes providing details about your disability and your need for attendant care support. Once approved, your card will be valid for five years.
Why the Companion Card Matters
The Queensland Companion Card removes one of the biggest barriers to participation: cost.
It allows people with disability to attend events, access transport, and enjoy community life without having to pay twice just because support is needed.
For many participants, this card makes it easier to:
Attend outings with a support worker
Access social and recreational activities
Build confidence through community participation
Maintain independence while being supported
It is a simple system that can make a big difference.
📍 Based on the Gold Coast
📝 If you’d like help exploring ways to use your Companion Card during community access supports, contact us here.
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