Child Restraints in Australian Cars – Australian Information

Child Safety Seats and Safety Belt Laws for children in Australian Cars.

Australian National Rules

A child restraint can only be used if it complies with the compulsory Australian Standard AS 1754

State Rules

Queensland
- June 2009: There is no set legal age in Queensland for when a child can sit in the front passenger seat, but once a child is old enough to use a booster seat, they are able to sit in the front seat using that booster.
- New National Rules WILL come into effect in March 2010, with Penalties for allowing any child under 7 years old to be unrestrained. Full rules are shown under New National Seat Belt laws at the bottom of this page.
Victoria
- May 2009: Whilst it is legal for any child to sit in the Front seat, it is not safe nor is it recommended.
  Toddlers can move to a booster seat when they out grow their child seat or weigh between 14 kg and 26 kg.
  Children can begin using normal seat belts when they are about 140-150 cm tall.
- From 9th November 2009: New rules for using child restraints and booster seats
  - Under six months must be in a rear facing child restraint.
  - Between six months and under four years children must be in a rear facing child restraint or a forward facing child restraint with an in-built harness.
  - Between four years and under seven must wear a forward facing child restraint with an in-built harness or an approved booster seat which is properly positioned and fastened.

New National Laws to be implemented 2009-2010.

www.ntc.gov.au PDF Document – New child restraint laws approved by Australia’s Transport ministers will provide a safe pathway from capsules to adult seatbelts.

- Under six months must be in a rear facing child restraint.
- Between six months and under four years children must be in a rear facing child restraint or a forward facing child restraint with an in-built harness.
- Between four years and under seven must wear a forward facing child restraint with an in-built harness or an approved booster seat which is properly positioned and fastened.