booster seat rules vic

In Victoria, child restraint laws follow age bands, and yes, the tape measure doesn’t get a vote.

From birth to under 6 months, children must be in an approved rearward-facing restraint; from 6 months to under 4 years, they must be in an approved rearward- or forward-facing seat with an inbuilt harness.

From 4 to under 7 years, they must use an approved forward-facing seat with inbuilt harness or a booster seat with a properly fastened and adjusted lap-sash seatbelt.

Under 4s cannot sit in the front seat if the vehicle has two or more rows; ages 4 to under 7 can only sit in front if all rear seats are occupied by children under 7, and they must still use the correct restraint.

Children 7 years and over must use a properly fastened seatbelt, and a booster is recommended until they’re tall enough (around 145 cm) for the belt to fit correctly.

Rear seat is safest whenever possible, and if in doubt, check the latest VicRoads guidance before strapping the little co-driver in.