victoria child seat laws Page 8

Victoria’s child seat laws are delightfully strict, because physics doesn’t negotiate. Children up to 6 months must be in an approved rear-facing restraint; from 6 months to under 4, an approved rear- or forward-facing seat with an inbuilt harness. From 4 to under 7, use a forward-facing seat with harness or a booster with a properly adjusted seatbelt. Under 4s can’t travel in the front seat unless the vehicle has no rear seats; 4–7s may only sit up front if all rear seats are taken by children under 7. Over 7 years may use an adult seatbelt if it fits correctly, though a booster is recommended until they pass the 5-step test (around 145 cm). Ensure the restraint meets AS/NZS 1754 and is correctly installed; fines and demerits await those who treat the rules like optional extras.