Q. What are Australian Design Rules?

A. It is a misconception that Australian states and territories differ to the correct fitment of child restraints and seatbelts. Each state and territory must adhere to Australian design rules and Australian standards.


Q. Why is my new seatbelt stuck in the retracted position?

A. Seatbelts have tolerances and can only be positioned within 3 degrees of the correct set angle. Positioning the seatbelt to the correct angle will allow the mechanism to work correctly.


Q. Does my vehicle have anchor points?

A. The best way to find out if a vehicle has child restraint anchor points from factory is to check the car owners manual. If it does the index will list child car restraints and you can check where the positions for anchorage are located.


Q. Can I fit a child restraint in the front seat if there are no rear seats?

A. If the car has only one row of seats (for example a single cab ute or sports car with a front anchorage point) then a child of any age can sit in the front seat provided they are properly restrained. However, it is strongly recommended that you never put a rearward facing restraint in front of an airbag. Ideally you would never put a child in front of an airbag in any position unless you had absolutely no other alternative.


Q. What are the laws around child restraints?

A. There are three parts to the child restraint laws, which were federalised in 2010:

  1. Firstly, your baby must travel rearward facing for at least the first six months, preferrably up to 2 years.
  2. Secondly, your child must be in a seat with an inbuilt harness at least until they turn 4.
  3. Finally, your child must be boosted or appropriately restrained at least until they turn 7.

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