Companion card guidelines

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Supporting Inclusive Access

Geographe Leisure Centre is proud to participate in the Western Australia Companion Card Program in the Western Australia Companion Card Program.

The Companion Card Program supports people with a significant and permanent disability who require attendant care support person in community activities and venues.  The program enables a support person to accompany the cardholder at no additional cost when support is required.

We are committed to ensuring our facilities are welcoming, accessible and inclusive for all membership of our community.

How Companion Card Access Works at GLC

If you hold a valid Companion Card and require assistance to access our services, your support person may accompany you free of charge.

The support person may be:

  • A family member
  • A friend
  • A support worker
  • A carer

The Companion Card belongs to the person with a disability, who can choose the person providing their support.

What Can a Support Person Do?

While accompanying a Companion Card holder, a support person may:

  • Assist with access to the facility
  • Help with communication or personal support needs
  • Assist with movement around the centre
  • Support safe use of gym equipment and activities
  • Provide supervision or assistance as required
  • Participate where necessary to support the cardholder's safe and successful involvement

Why Can't Support Persons Exercise independently?

The Companion Card provides complimentary access so that assistance can be provided to the cardholder.  It is not intended to provide free access to facilities for personal recreation or fitness use by the support worker. 

To ensure fairness for all users of the facility:

  • Support persons may and support the cardholder during activities
  • Support persons may demonstrate exercises or assist with equipment where needed
  • Support persons should remain available to support the cardholder throughout the visit.

However, support persons cannot use their complimentary entry to undertake their own independent workout our use the facility as a substitute for a paid membership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I accompany a Companion Card holder free of charge?

Yes.  If you are attending to provide support to the cardholder, you may accompany them free of charge.

Can I use gym equipment while supporting someone?

Yes, if it is part of assisting the cardholder, demonstrating an exercise, supervising, spotting or supporting participation.

Can I complete my own workout while I'm here?

No.  Companion Card access is provided to support the cardholder, not for independent use of the facility.

Can I attend without the Companion Card holder?

No.  Complimentary access is only available while accompanying and supporting the Companion Card holder.

What if I would like to use the facility for my own exercise?

We would be happy to discuss casual entry fees, memberships or other options that may suit your needs.

 

Our Commitment

GLC is committed to supporting people with disability to access and enjoy our facilities safely, confidently and with dignity.