Companion Card FAQs

Find out more about the NSW Companion Card by viewing our frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Below are some frequently asked questions about the card.

No, just email a recent photo and your current address to info.companioncard@dcj.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 893 044.

Call us on 1800 893 044 or send an email to info.companioncard@dcj.nsw.gov.au with your updated address and contact details.

Companion Cards are free. However, the applicant must supply two colour photographs of passport quality, which you must get at your own cost.

No, there is no age restriction. However, because the Companion Card program is all about ‘fair ticketing’, the cardholder must be old enough to be charged an entry fee and must have a lifelong need for a support person. If a child’s condition is likely to improve and they’re likely to become an independent adult in the future then a Companion Card cannot not be issued.

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 these venues?

No. The Companion Card was not developed to overcome or compensate for any venue’s lack of accessibility, including the absence of ramps, lifts or accessible toilets.

Responsibility for these access issues remains with venue and activity operators.

The Companion Card program will consider applications from people with episodic conditions (for example, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, schizophrenia, etc.) on a case-by-case basis.

A card will only be issued if a support person is needed in most circumstances and support needs cannot be managed by treatment, medication or aids.

Information regarding the type and frequency of episodes, the residual effects and details about proposed treatment options should be included in the application.

Companion Cards are for people with a disability who need a support person to help with tasks including mobility, self-care, communication and planning.

If you’re able to perform these tasks independently, with the help of aids and equipment, then you may not be eligible for a Companion Card.

No. There is no income or assets test and people may apply irrespective of employment or financial status.

No. Companion Cards are only issued in the name of the person with a disability. The person with a disability is then able to choose their support person in each instance.

Yes, anyone can complete the form on your behalf or help you. However, the information entered is still about you. If someone does help you, please include their contact details in the application.

NSW Companion Card will consider all of the information provided with the application when deciding whether the applicant is eligible for a Companion Card.

If more information is required, NSW Companion Card will contact the health professional or service provider that signed the application form and/or the applicant.

What supporting information does the NSW Companion Card require with the application to make an informed decision?

Any relevant supporting information such as contact details of support services (e.g. National Disability Insurance Scheme supports) and copies of current reports from treating health professionals will help to determine eligibility.

Yes. The NSW Companion Card is recognised at affiliates listed throughout Australia. You can find a list of interstate Companion Card websites on our contact us page.

Not everyone who receives NDIS funding will be eligible for a Companion Card.

Only people who require a high level of support for the rest of their life are eligible for a Companion Card. Some people who get support from the NDIS may need a high level of support now, but may need less help in the future.

You can contact the Companion Card program in your home state by visiting their website.

If your application was declined, you would have received a letter outlining the appeals process. Please contact NSW Companion Card for more information.