Child Restraints - Victoria Child Restraint Laws - FAQ's

What can I do if my child is too big for the restraint for their age?
The laws aim to cater for the majority of children, however there is a provision to allow a child who is too heavy or tall for the recommended restraint to use the restraint in the next age category.

If my child is in a booster seat do they also need to be in a child safety harness?
Booster seats do not come with an internal child safety harness, and are designed to be used with a lap/sash seatbelt and therefore do not require a child safety harness. However, if your child is using a seating position fitted with a lap-only belt then they must use a child safety harness.

If I can't fit my three children in three restraints in the back, is it OK if one sits in the front?
Yes, under the following circumstances. If there are two child restraints or booster seats in the rear and there is not enough space to put a third restraint or booster in the rear seat then a passenger aged between four and less than seven years old can be in a booster seat in the front seat. You will need to use a booster seat that does not need to be anchored.

Can I still use the additional seat (dickie seat) that I have in the back of my station wagon?
Yes. Dickie seats will be permitted for use by children aged four years and less than seven years provided the seat is suitable for the child's height and weight and a lap/sash seatbelt or seatbelt with a child safety harness is used.

There are other changes to the road rules that came into effect on 9 November 2009. For more information click here.