seatbelt laws victoria

In Victoria, the rule is simple: if the seat has a belt, you wear it—properly adjusted and fastened—no ifs, no buts.

Drivers are legally responsible for passengers under 16 being correctly restrained; older passengers cop their own consequences if they try their luck.

Kids need age-appropriate restraints: under 6 months rearward-facing; 6 months to under 4 rearward or forward-facing with inbuilt harness; 4 to under 7 a booster or forward-facing with harness; 7+ an adult belt only if it fits properly.

One belt per person—no sharing, no lap-sitting, and definitely no “just around the corner” excuses.

Police do check, and penalties involve fines and demerit points that sting more than a magpie in September.

If in doubt, check VicRoads or your vehicle manual for restraint fitment; the law expects you to get it right.