Why was the Companion Card developed?
Historically, a person with disability who required a companion carer to participate in community events had been asked to pay for two admissions – one for themselves and one for their companion.
This has the effect of doubling the cost for that person to participate and is a discriminating practice under Tasmanian and Commonwealth disability anti-discrimination legislation.
The Companion Card provides venues with a simple and consistent method of identifying who may legitimately require a companion carer.
Please note:
Under Sections 14 and 15 of the Anti-discrimination Act 1998 (Tas) and Section 8 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cwlth) it is unlawful to discriminate against a person with disability who requires a companion carer.
Go to the other resources section for more information on disability discrimination.
