A ticket for your carer
The Companion Card initiative allows those in need of a carer a free pass for their helper at a variety of events.
Jewish Care Melbourne is encouraging all those in need of the card to apply.
The Social Inclusion Leadership Committee (SILC) brings together a new group of leaders, from 13 Victorian organisations, set up to lead a campaign of realisation and change that actively promotes the inclusion of all Jewish people with disability in employment and community life in Victoria. The development of SILC was led by Jewish Care.
SILC is developing and promoting actions that create a more inclusive community. There exist many programs that support carers of people with disabilities and their families, however it can be difficult to know what’s suitable and available.
SILC Chair, David Southwick MP, says “The Committee wants to ensure that everyone in the Jewish community with a disability, their carers and family, knows what support is available and how to access it. We are encouraging those in the Jewish community with a disability, their families and carers to explore obtaining a Companion Card.
The Companion Card is a practical initiative, accessed through the Victorian Department of Health, which provides a great deal of value. The card removes the financial barrier for people with disability who require attendant care support to participate at events, activities and venues. The support person is able to attend free of charge at a range of events and venues across Australia.
In Melbourne, some of the venues and events include the Melbourne International Arts, Comedy, Jazz, Film and Fringe Festivals, the Melbourne Zoo and Aquarium, the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Theatre Company, and many sporting venues.
To be eligible for a Companion Card, applicants must:
- be a permanent resident of Australia,
- have a permanent disability, and
- due to the impact of the disability, require lifelong attendant care.
“Every person deserves to be able to go to the footy or visit the theatre, and SILC encourages all Victorian organisations to consider being involved with the Companion Card scheme. We want to make sure that the Jewish community uses every possible avenue to support its members who have a disability, and their families,” adds Southwick.
Key Facts
- The National Companion Card Scheme brings together State and Territory Companion Card programs that enable eligible people with lifelong disability to participate at venues and activities without incurring the cost of a second ticket for their companion.
- The cardholder presents their card at participating affiliate organisations to purchase a ticket or pay an entry fee and receive a ticket for their companion at no extra charge
- It’s advised those using a Companion Card check whether it is accepted at a particular venue or service provider beforehand via companioncard.gov.au or call 1800 650 611.
