RACQ Motoring
Child Restraint Checklist

Child restraint legislation & regulations in Queensland

On the 11th March 2010, the Queensland Government announced the introduction of new child restraint laws. As part of the new regulations, children up to seven years of age must be seated in a child restraint when travelling in a vehicle.

The new regulations aim to reduce the number of children that are inappropriately restrained on Queensland roads and establish legislation that is clear and easy for parents, guardians and carers to understand.

Key requirements for the use of child restraints in Queensland under the Transport Operations (Road Rules) Regulation 2009

Babies

0 - 6 months
  • Must be secured in an approved rearward facing baby capsule or infant restraint that is properly fastened and adjusted.

Babies & Children

6 months - 4 years
  • Must be secured in either an approved rearward facing child restraint or an approved forward facing child restraint with built-in harness that is properly fastened and adjusted.
  • A child under four years of age cannot sit in the front seat of a vehicle that has more than one row of seats, even if the child is three years of age and large enough to sit in a booster seat.

Children

4 years - 7 years
  • Must be restrained in a suitable and properly fastened and adjusted forward facing approved child restraint that has an inbuilt harness; or be placed on a properly positioned approved booster seat and be restrained by a H-Harness or seatbelt that is properly adjusted and fastened. The child must be secured in this manner up until they turn seven years of age.
  • A child aged between four and seven years of age cannot sit in the front seat of a vehicle that has more than one row of seats, unless all the other seats are occupied by children under the age of seven years.

Please note: The Queensland Road Rules Regulation 2009 refers to the age of the child not to the weight and height of the child. It is recommended you refer to the child restraint manufacturer's manual before use or purchase as it will indicate any weight and/or height restrictions for that particular restraint.

  • The law does recognise that children may be too small or large for a specific type of child restraint.  In instances where the child is small for their age, they can remain in the lower level restraint for as long as possible. If they are large for their age, the child may move up into the next level restraint.


For more details on the legislation requirements visit the Queensland Government Department of Transport website, view RACQ's information on Australian Standards for child restraints or contact us if you would like us to help you with your personal child restraint enquiries.

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