We have noticed that some families do not seem to be using the correct child restraint or on some occasions none at all. Please, for the safety of your child, make sure you are following the below road rules.
Restraint road rules
All persons travelling in a motor vehicle must travel in a restraint (child seat, booster seat or adult seat belt) that is properly adjusted and fastened. The type of restraint will depend on the person’s size. The road rules in Victoria require:
- A child under six months of age to travel in a rearward facing approved child restraint.
- A child aged six months to under 4 years to travel in either a rearward facing OR forward facing approved child restraint. The type of restraint will depend on the child’s size.
- A child aged 4 years to under 7 years to travel in either a forward facing approved child restraint with an inbuilt harness, or an approved booster seat*. The type of restraint will depend on the child’s size.
- A child aged 7 years to under 16 years to travel in either an approved booster seat or an adult seatbelt. The type of restraint will depend on the child’s size.
- A person 16 years and over to travel in an adult seatbelt.
* A booster seat can be used with a lap-sash seatbelt or child safety harness. A child safety harness is not recommended for use with a booster seat in a seating position with a lap-sash seatbelt.
Head to www.vicroads.vic.gov.au for more information.