The Companion Card program lets you bring a support person to thousands of venues across Australia without buying them a second ticket. It's accepted at over 4,200 participating businesses nationwide, from cinemas and theme parks to sporting grounds and museums.
Your companion can be anyone: a family member, a friend, or a disability support worker. The card exists so that needing attendant care support doesn't stop you from getting out and enjoying life, whether that's a trip to the movies, a concert, or a day at the zoo.
This guide covers where the Companion Card is accepted across Australia, plus specific venues worth checking out in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne.
A state-by-state breakdown of where to use the Companion Card
Each state and territory runs its own Companion Card program and its own directory of participating venues. Some are searchable by postcode, which makes it easier to find something nearby.
- New South Wales
- Victoria
- Queensland
- Western Australia
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Australian Capital Territory
- Northern Territory
A card issued in one state also works at participating venues in every other state and territory, so it's worth packing if you're travelling or visiting family interstate. Just note that if you move states permanently, you'll need to apply for a new card through your new home state.
Where can you use a Companion Card around Australia
The types of venues that accept the Companion Card are broadly similar across the country, though exactly which businesses participate varies by state. Always check with the specific venue before you go.
Arts and culture
- Performing arts centres and theatres: Plays, musicals, dance performances, and other live shows.
- Cinemas: The latest films with the support you need.
- Museums and galleries: Exhibitions and cultural collections.
- Live music venues and festivals: Concerts and performances, including major events like Sydney Festival.
Recreation and leisure
- Zoos, wildlife parks, and aquariums: Experience the natural world with your support person.
- Theme parks: Rides and attractions.
- Sporting events: AFL, NRL, cricket, and other major matches.
- Recreational facilities: Bowling alleys, mini-golf courses, and go-kart tracks.
- Swimming pools and aquatic centres: Aquatic activities with your companion.
Transportation
- Public transport: In NSW, Victoria, and Queensland, Companion Card holders can travel with a free companion on most public transport. In NSW, for example, your companion travels free on Sydney Trains, Sydney Metro, buses, Sydney Ferries, and light rail, as long as you travel together for the whole journey.
- Tourism transport: Certain ferries, sightseeing buses, and other tourist transport accept the card.
Tourism and accommodation
- Tourist attractions and tours: Landmarks and attractions.
- Holiday parks and accommodation providers: Some offer complimentary access for your companion.
Community and essential services
- Local council facilities: Events and activities at community centres, libraries, and council-run venues.
- Educational workshops and classes: Learning opportunities with the support you need.
- Disability support services and events: Relevant programs and gatherings.
Top places to use a Companion Card in Sydney
Madame Tussauds Sydney
Madame Tussauds offers free entry to carers who hold a companion card. Tickets must be booked in advance through their website. Make sure to bring your companion card with you to present to the staff on the day.
Taronga Zoo
Marvel at giraffes, tigers, elephants and more at Taronga! The zoo offers free entry to carers or essential companions of people with disability. Don't miss out on one of their Access Taronga Days, specifically designed for visitors with autism or sensory needs.
Sydney Film Festival
Every June, Sydneysiders get to enjoy a mix of local, international, short and feature-length films at Sydney Film Festival. The festival proudly accepts Companion Cards to all sessions.
Top Companion Card locations in Brisbane?
Queensland Performing Arts Centre
The Queensland Performing Arts Centre is one of several performing arts venues that accepts the Companion Card, alongside venues like Brisbane Powerhouse. Mention your card when booking.
The Queensland Performing Arts Centre is one of several performing arts venues that accepts the Companion Card, alongside venues like Brisbane Powerhouse. Mention your card when booking.
Gallery of Modern Art
As a Companion Card holder visiting GOMA, you'll get a concession-priced ticket for yourself and a complimentary ticket for your companion to paid exhibitions. Complimentary companion tickets are collected at the gallery.
Brisbane Motor Museum
From American muscle cars to stylish German automobiles, the Brisbane Motor Museum has plenty of vehicles to satisfy any motor enthusiast. This wheelchair-accessible venue accepts Companion Cards for entry to its exhibition space.
Top spots to use the Companion Card in Melbourne
Events at the MCG
The MCG accepts Companion Cards for accessible seating bookings through Ticketek, including a dedicated accessibility hotline. Members with a valid Victorian Companion Card can also redeem a complimentary companion ticket for events in the Members' Reserve. From Boxing Day Test cricket to AFL finals, there's no shortage of ways to catch a game with a companion by your side.
Luna Park
Both Sydney and Melbourne's Luna Parks offer a free ride pass or entry ticket for a carer accompanying a Companion Card holder who has purchased their own full-priced ticket. Present your card at the ticket box on arrival.
Things to consider when using your Companion Card
- Always verify first. Contact the venue directly to confirm they're a participating affiliate before you head out, since participation can change.
- One companion per cardholder. The card typically covers one companion accompanying the cardholder.
- Bring your physical card. Present it at the time of ticket purchase or on entry, as most venues require it to be shown, not just mentioned.
- State and territory variations exist. The scheme is national, but individual venue policies differ, so check your destination state's directory if you're travelling.
- It's not a discount card. The Companion Card doesn't reduce the cardholder's own ticket price. Its purpose is to remove the cost of a second ticket for the person providing attendant care.
Need a companion? Bring a Like Family support worker with you
Found your next outing? Like Family's support workers can accompany you to any of these venues using your Companion Card. We focus on social and community support, so you're set up for a great day out.
Get in touch with our Customer Care team at hello@likefamily.com.au or call 1800 545 332.