Child Car Restraints

NAVIGATION

Travelling in the car is something that we regularly do with our families, whether that be setting off on a road trip during the holidays or taking a quick trip around the corner to the shops to pick up supplies for dinner.

Motor vehicle crashes are a major cause of unintentional death and injury, which is why it is important that we all take measures to ensure everyone is travelling as safely as possible.

Correctly fitted and used child car restraints and booster seats play an important part in protecting children from serious injury and death in the event of a crash.

To ensure that the maximum level of protection is provided for your children, it is important that the restraint they are travelling in is:

• The right size for the child
• Correctly fitted to the vehicle
• Properly adjusted and fastened for the child on every trip

The information in this section will help you to choose, install and use the right restraint for your child.

Choosing a child CAR restraint or booster seat

When considering which restraint to purchase for your child, there are a number of things to consider, including:

• Does the restraint comply with Australian Standards? All restraints sold and used in Australia must comply with the Australian Standard. When purchasing your child’s restraint, look for the standard’s sticker on the restraint and wording on the packaging that states it complies with AS/NZS 1754.
• Is the restraint correct for your child’s size?
• How well will the restraint fit into your vehicle?

Second Hand CAR Restraints

Second hand car restraints should be used with caution. If you are considering using a second hand restraint there are a few things to consider, including:

• Does the restraint meet the AS/NZS 1754? This information can be found on the restraint.
• Are you aware of the history of the restraint? Restraints that have been involved in a moderate to severe crash should not be used.
• Does the restraint come with all parts, including the instruction booklet?
• Is the restraint less than 10 years old? Child restraints over 10 years old should not be used – you can find the date of manufacture printed on the restraint.
• Is the restraint in good condition with no splits, cracks or stress marks on the restraint shell and no frayed, worn or damaged straps?

Resources

Kidsafe Seat Safety Checklist
Easy Read Fact Sheet – Child Car Seats
National Child Restraint Best Practice Guidelines
Purchasing a Rearward Facing Restraint for Newborns
RACV – Child Restraints and Airbag
RACV – Using Restraints
VicRoads – Child Restraints, Booster Seats and Seatbelt Readiness
Child Restraint Evaluation Program
Seat Me Safely

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