Why do the new rules refer to age instead of size or height and weight?
Research conducted by the Centre for Automotive Safety Research indicates that regulations specifying child restraint usage by age (rather than by height or weight) will result in the smallest number of children being inappropriately restrained. Guidelines are also easier for parents and carers to understand and follow if given in terms of age. What is an ‘Approved Child Restraint’? Approved child restraints comply with Australian Standard (AS) 1754 and must be correctly anchored to the vehicle using an Australian Standard’s approved anchorage system. The child restraint must be correctly fitted and properly adjusted for the child using the restraint at all times. All child restraints sold in Australia must meet the strict requirements of the AS 1754 covering the materials, design, construction, performance, testing and labelling of child restraints. Restraints bought in other countries will not meet the Australian Standard – it is illegal to use them in Australia. What types of child
