20/9/04
The Gallop Government is ensuring that Western Australians with a disability have a greater opportunity to participate fully in their community, through the establishment of a Companion Card in WA.
Disability Services Minister Sheila McHale said the card was part of the State Government's commitment to create a more inclusive and supportive community.
The decision to establish the program in WA follows significant consultation with people with disabilities and their families, and a comprehensive feasibility study by the Disability Services Commission that began in November 2003. It will be based on a similar scheme operating in Victoria.
Ms McHale said some people with disabilities required the assistance of a companion to attend events and venues and this often forced them to purchase two admission tickets.
"The Companion Card will work like this: people who require assistance will apply to an administering agency and will have to meet eligibility criteria to establish need before a card is issued," the Minister said.
"Industry partners will 'opt in' to the scheme and agree to give free entry to venues or events for companions when the card is shown. The AFL is the first organisation to support the adoption of the program in WA."
Ms McHale said many State Government agencies already recognised this issue, including the Art Gallery of WA and the WA Maritime Museum and she will work to encourage Government and non-Government venues to accept the Companion Card.
"I am very pleased to endorse the establishment of a Companion Card in my home State of WA," Olympic great Betty Cuthbert said.
"I was involved in the launch of the Victorian Companion Card, and I would like to urge all businesses, sporting and entertainment venues to embrace this concept. I also encourage my fellow Western Australians with disabilities to register their interest in obtaining a Companion Card."
Expressions of Interest will be sought this week from agencies interested in operating the program.
Ms McHale said people with disabilities who required a companion, and industry partners wanting to 'opt in', could register their interest in the program through the Disability Services Commission's website at http://www.dsc.wa.gov.au or by sending their name and contact details to: Companion Card, Disability Services Commission, PO Box 441, West Perth 6872.
Minister's office: 9213 6900
