Keeping our children safe is every parent's top priority — and that includes every car trip, no matter how short. In South Australia, car seat laws are designed to protect young passengers during one of the most dangerous everyday activities: driving. But proper safety goes beyond simply following the law.

Here are 5 must-know child car seat safety tips, based on South Australian regulations and expert advice from Kidsafe SA.

1. Choose the Right Car Seat for Your Child’s Age and Size

Using the right restraint for your child’s stage of development is not just best practice — it’s the law.

• 0 to 6 months: Rearward-facing child restraint only.
• 6 months to 4 years: Either rearward- or forward-facing restraint with an inbuilt harness. (Best to keep rear facing as long as possible).
• 4 to 7 years: Forward-facing seat with harness or booster seat with seatbelt.
• 7+ years: Booster seat or adult seatbelt, depending on the child’s size.

Safety tip: Keep your child in each stage for as long as they still fit within the size and weight limits — don’t rush to move them up.

2. Make Sure the Restraint is Installed Correctly

Incorrect installation is one of the most common — and preventable — causes of child injury in car crashes.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Use the correct anchorage points in your vehicle.
• The seat should not move more than 2.5 cm when pulled at the base.

💡 Bonus Tip: Visit a certified car seat fitter or attend a community check day to double-check your installation.

3. The Back Seat Is Always Best

By law in South Australia:

• Children under 4 must not sit in the front seat if the vehicle has two or more rows.
• Children aged 4–7 can only sit in the front seat if all back seats are occupied by younger children.

Even when it’s legal, the back seat is significantly safer in the event of a crash — especially in cars with passenger airbags.

4. Use Only Approved Restraints

All car seats used in South Australia must comply with the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1754. Look for the certification sticker before you buy or use a seat — even second-hand.

⚠️ Avoid buying car seats online from overseas retailers that don’t meet local standards — they may not be legal or safe to use.

5. Adjust and Inspect Regularly

Children grow quickly, and their car seat setup needs to keep up.

• Check that the harness straps are snug — no slack, no twists.
• Adjust the strap height to match your child’s shoulder level.
• Replace restraints that are older than 10 years, have visible damage, or were involved in a crash.

Final Thoughts

Car seat safety isn’t a one-time decision — it’s an ongoing commitment. By choosing the right restraint, installing it correctly, and keeping up with your child’s growth, you’re giving them the best protection possible on the road.

For more information or help, visit Kidsafe SA’s Child Restraint Services.

Drive safe, buckle up, and make every ride a safe one!