what age does a child have to be in a car seat

In Australia, the law is clear: all kids under 7 years old must be strapped into an approved child restraint or booster seat. No exceptions for the charming toddler tantrum or the sleepy-eyed naptime protest. From birth to around 6 months, a rear-facing infant seat is the go-to, offering maximum safety. As they grow, forward-facing seats or booster seats take over until they're big enough for the seatbelt to do its job properly, usually around 7 years old. Remember, these rules aren't mere suggestions—they’re the law, enforced with the kind of zeal that makes your wallet lighter if ignored. For the nitty-gritty, check official government resources or ServiceCentral for compliance and latest updates.