car seat law victoria

Victoria follows the national child restraint rules: under 6 months must be in a rear-facing restraint; 6 months to under 4 years in a rear- or forward-facing seat with inbuilt harness (rear-facing still best); 4 to under 7 in a forward-facing seat with harness or a booster with a properly adjusted seatbelt. In vehicles with two or more rows, children under 4 cannot sit in the front; ages 4–7 can only sit up front if all rear seats are occupied by younger kids. From 7 onward, they may use a booster or an adult belt if it fits correctly (shoulder belt on the shoulder, not carving the neck). All restraints must meet AS/NZS 1754, be correctly installed (ISOFIX-approved seats are fine), and suit the child’s size, not just age. Penalties apply if you botch it, and yes, the cops do check. For the latest fine print, check VicRoads or the official state guidance.