seatbelt laws qld

In Queensland, the rule is simple: if the car’s moving, every bum needs a belt. Adults must wear a properly adjusted seatbelt, and the driver must ensure passengers under 16 are correctly restrained. Kids under 6 months need a rear-facing restraint; from 6 months to under 4 years, a rear- or forward-facing restraint with an inbuilt harness; from 4 to under 7, a forward-facing restraint or booster used with a properly fitted seatbelt or harness.

Children under 4 can’t sit in the front if there’s a back seat; 4–7s can ride up front only when all rear seats are occupied by younger kids. Penalties and demerit points are hefty and can stack for each unrestrained passenger, so save the “it’s just around the corner” logic for the takeaway menu. For the fine print and latest penalties, check official Queensland guidance before you hit the road.