From the beauty of the Barossa to the arcades of Adelaide, South Australia is a state full of places to go and things to experience. For South Australians living with a significant and permanent disability who require essential support, the Companion Card helps ensure participation isn't limited by the cost of bringing a necessary helper.

Accepted throughout South Australia and across the country, the Companion Card is designed to cover the cost of admission for necessary helpers for people with a disability. It's a nationwide program that promotes fairness and inclusion for those who need it.

For South Australians with a significant disability, this guide will provide key information on who can benefit from the card, the local application steps, and where it's accepted within the state.

What is the South Australian Companion Card?

The South Australian Companion Card program is part of the national initiative to support those who require significant support to take part in community life.

The principle is straightforward: when a person holding the card pays for their entry to a participating organisation or event, they can use the Companion Card to grant admission for their support person at no extra cost. This eliminates the need for a second ticket purchase for the companion.

This initiative ensures that the requirement for attendant care doesn't create an additional financial barrier for people with significant disabilities to enjoy activities and venues.

A man with a disability and his support worker playing basketball.

Who can receive a Companion Card in South Australia?

There are specific criteria you must meet to be eligible for the South Australian Companion Card. Applicants must reside in South Australia, and be Australian citizens or permanent residents. The card is intended for individuals with a disability that is assessed as severe or profound and is lifelong.

Most importantly, you must demonstrate that they are unable to participate at most venues and activities without significant support due to their disability.

This means you need help with things like getting around, communicating, personal care, or organising things, even if you use equipment or aids. The support you need must be significant and continuous – the card isn't for situations where someone just offers you company or comfort.

For individuals receiving NDIS support, it’s important to mention that while related, the Companion Card is a separate program. Having an NDIS plan does not automatically guarantee Companion Card access, or vice versa.

The Companion Card criteria focus specifically on the lifelong need for attendant care for community access.

A man with a disability and his support worker applying for a Companion Card.

How to apply for a South Australian Companion Card

The application for a Companion Card in South Australia requires providing detailed information and supporting evidence. Here’s how the process works:

  1. Verify eligibility: First, ensure your situation matches the specific South Australian eligibility requirements.
  2. Get the application form: Download the current SA application form from the official SA Companion Card page. You can also call 1800 667 110 to request a hard copy by mail.
  3. Complete the form: Fill out the application form thoroughly. You'll need to include:
  • Supporting evidence: Copies of formal reports or assessments (like psychological evaluations, specific diagnostic scale scores, visual acuity readings) that confirm your disability and support needs.
  • Photograph: One recent, passport-quality colour photo (head and shoulders, plain background). This photo will appear on your card. You can take this yourself or get one professionally taken.

4. Obtain professional signatures: Take the completed form and the back of your photograph to your relevant health professional or a registered NDIS service provider. They need to complete specific sections of the form and sign both the form and the back of your photo. They can also attach further supporting evidence if appropriate.

5. Submit the application: Post your completed application form, signed photo, and supporting documents to the following address. You don’t need to use a stamp.
SA Companion Card
Reply Paid 292
Adelaide SA 5001

After submission: The SA Companion Card team will review your application. They might need to contact you for more details. You will be notified by mail regarding the outcome. If approved, your card will be included. If not approved, the notification will explain why and provide information about the review process.

Where you can use your South Australian Companion Card

The Companion Card program is supported across all of Australia, though each state runs its own version of the program. That means you can use your South Australian Companion Card not just in South Australia, but across all of Australia.

Participating organisations (often referred to as ‘affiliates’) agree to issue a complimentary ticket to the companion accompanying a cardholder.

You can find a list of registered South Australian affiliates on the SA Companion Card website. Some businesses may accept the card even if not formally listed, so it's always worth asking.

Remember to mention your Companion Card when booking tickets (whether online, by phone, or in person) and be prepared to show your card upon entry.

Here are some examples of places in SA where the card is typically welcomed:

Culture, events, and entertainment:

Venues like the Adelaide Festival Centre and major cinemas support the Companion Card, as do events like the Adelaide Fringe, museums such as the South Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of South Australia, and various live performance spaces.

Attractions and leisure:

Places like Adelaide Zoo, wildlife parks like Monarto Safari Park, sporting venues like Adelaide Oval (for certain events), and other tourist attractions often support the Companion Card program.

Recreation and pools:

Many councils and privately managed swimming pools, fitness centres, and recreation facilities across SA are affiliates.

Public Transport:

The SA Companion Card allows your companion to travel free on metropolitan Adelaide public transport when they accompany you. You need your own valid ticket and must carry your Companion Card. *
Helpful advice: Always check directly with the venue or activity operator beforehand regarding their Companion Card policy, accessibility features, and if any separate participation fees apply to companions (e.g., for rides at a fun park, even if entry is covered).

Other key information for SA cardholders

  • Card duration: While Companion Cards in SA are for life, cards are replaced every 10 years. Renewal information should be sent to you before expiry.
  • Replacement needs: If your card is lost, stolen, damaged, or details like your name or photo need updating, fill in a Replacement or change of details form and post it to:
    SA Companion Card
    Reply Paid 292
    Adelaide SA 5001
  • Who can be your companion: The card is yours. You decide who acts as your companion each time – this can be anyone who provides the necessary support, like a family member, friend, paid carer, or a Like Family Social Carer.

Contacting the SA Companion Card program

For South Australia-specific questions or support regarding the Companion Card:

A man with a disability playing guitar with his support worker.

Enjoy South Australia with a Like Family Companion!

Ready to explore Adelaide's festivals, enjoy a regional SA outing, or visit your favourite local spots with your Companion Card? A Like Family support worker can be the friendly companion you need. We're focused on social enjoyment and community connection, and our South Australian team is eager to help you make the most of your experiences.

Let's plan your next adventure! Reach out to our helpful Customer Care team today at hello@likefamily.com.au or call 1800 545 332.

Join Like Family today