qld car seat laws 2023 Page 6

Queensland’s child car seat rules in 2023 are straightforward, even if your toddler isn’t. Here’s the cheat sheet:

• Under 6 months: rear‑facing only in an approved AS/NZS 1754 restraint.
• 6 months to under 4 years: rear‑ or forward‑facing with inbuilt harness.
• 4 to under 7 years: forward‑facing with harness or a booster using a properly adjusted seatbelt.

If the car has two or more rows, kids under 7 should be in the back; ages 4–7 may use the front only if all rear seats are occupied by younger children, and under‑4s can sit up front only in vehicles with no back seats.

Use an approved restraint fitted snugly—loose straps are about as useful as a chocolate teapot.

Stuff it up and you’re looking at fines and demerit points, plus a stern chat you won’t win; taxis and rideshares have specific rules, but proper restraint is still required.