Recommended child restraints
Choose the right restraint to suit your child’s size
To provide the best protection for your child, it’s important to choose the right restraint to suit their size. A child should only be moved to the next type of restraint once they’ve outgrown their current one.
Check out RAA’s recommendations for each age/size range below.
Let us help
Each car is different in design and size. So too are child restraints, which means some will work better than others. You can see our recommended child restraints below, but before you go ahead and buy a seat, contact our team of experts. They'll help you make the best choice for you, and your child.
You can make an appointment to try seats in your car before you buy, and we can also ensure your seats are fitted correctly.
Call us on 8202 4592 or email childrestraints@raa.com.au with questions, or to get advice and make a booking.
The full range of child restraints can be purchased at our Child Safety Centre at 101 Richmond Road, Mile End. A selected range is available at RAA shops across the state. Seats can also be purchased online.
RAA's recommended child restraints for each age/weight range
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Birth to 6 months
Rearward-facing child restraints.
What the law says
- Infants up to 6 months old must use an approved rearward-facing child restraint and mustn't travel in the front seat of a vehicle that has two or more rows of seats.
- If you have a single-row vehicle – such as a ute or van – a rearward-facing child restraint can be used in the front seat, as long as there are no airbags in that position and an anchorage point is available. Using a rearward-facing restraint in a front seat where there’s an airbag is illegal and extremely dangerous.
- Your restraint must be:
- used and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
- securely attached to an anchorage point and seatbelt as specified
- maintained in sound condition and working order
All child restraints must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS1754) in order to gain approved status. Every compliant child restraint will feature a Standards Approved Certification sticker.
Our advice
RAA recommends using a capsule for the first 6-12 months and then moving your child into a convertible seat that allows them to stay rearward facing until at least 12 months of age.
Baby capsules are designed specifically for the first months of a baby’s life and feature a narrower shell and harness fit, plus a lower harness slot height than convertible safety seats. This means the baby is held more securely.
There are some capsules available that have been tested and certified for low-birthweight (LBW) babies. According to an Australian study, LBW babies are 3 times more likely to get poor harness fit than average birthweight babies in a child restraint not suited to LBW babies.
For more information, download our Right child, right restraint, right time, Shoulder height markers and Child restraints for low-birthweight babies fact sheets.
Note: It's strongly recommended you test rearward-facing restraints in your vehicle before purchasing to ensure that they fit correctly. Visit our Child Safety Centre to try our range of restraints before purchasing. Free installations are provided for restraints purchased from the RAA within the last 12 months (a saving of $45 per restraint). For further information please refer to the Terms and Conditions (PDF, 78kb).
Dedicated infant restraints
Birth to approximately 12 months
Britax B-Pod Low Birth Weight Baby Capsule
Members' price: $469
Non-Members' Price: $479The B-Pod baby capsule is suitable for newborns up to 12 months and low birth weight and premature infants without restrictive medical conditions.
Travel system, click and go compatibility with a wide assortment of stroller brands.
Featuring the latest ClickTight system, designed to provide effortless and secure installation on every single ride.
B-pod is lightweight, a must-have for parents on the go. It can be easily carried and quickly transferred from home to the car to the stroller, making it a breeze to take your baby out and about.
Maxi Cosi Mico 12 LX Pro Non Isofix Baby Capsule
Members' price: $479
Non-Members' price: $489
The Mico 12LX Pro Non Isofix is a stylish, fully featured baby capsule, designed to support newborns from low birth weight up to 12 months of age. The Mico 12LX Pro features a lightweight design, made to support newborns from low birth weight up to 12 months of age.
Safety meets sustainability with innovative Air Protect® side impact technology, SMART Lock installation system and soft-touch ECOCare fabrics, made with 100% recycled materials.
The Mico 12LX Pro is engineered for modern families on the move. Easily connect your baby capsule with most leading stroller brands to create a seamless travel system, making every outing effortless from car to stroller and back again.
Maxi Cosi Mico 12 LX Pro Isofix Baby Capsule
Members' price: $529
Non-Members' price: $539
The Mico 12LX Pro Isofix is a stylish, fully featured baby capsule, designed to support newborns from low birth weight up to 12 months of age. The Mico 12LX Pro features a lightweight design, made to support newborns from low birth weight up to 12 months of age.
Safety meets sustainability with innovative Air Protect® side impact technology, SMART Lock installation system, Isofix compatible and soft-touch ECOCare fabrics, made with 100% recycled materials.
The Mico 12LX Pro is engineered for modern families on the move. Easily connect your baby capsule with most leading stroller brands to create a seamless travel system, making every outing effortless from car to stroller and back again.
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6 months to 4 years
Rearward or forward-facing child restraints.
What the law says
- Children aged between 6 months and 4 years old must use either an approved rearward-facing restraint or forward-facing child safety seat with an inbuilt harness, and mustn't travel in the front seat of a vehicle that has two or more rows of seats.
- If you have a single-row vehicle – such as a ute or van – a forward-facing child restraint can legally be used in the front seat, as long as there’s an anchorage point available. In vehicles with airbags in the front seat, always follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers will warn against placing children under the age of 12 in a position fitted with an airbag, and these warnings should be adhered to.
- The restraint must be:
- used and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
- securely attached to an anchorage point and seatbelt as specified
- maintained in sound condition and working order
All child restraints must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS1754) in order to gain approved status. Every compliant child restraint will feature a Standards Approved Certification sticker.
Our advice
Although the law states a child must be a minimum of 6 months old to go forward facing, it is much safer for them to rearward face for longer. Each seat has shoulder height markers that determine when it is legal and safe for the child to face forward – these markers must be followed. Most seats will not accommodate the forward-facing position until at least 12 months with some seats rated up to 30 months.
As children are far more vulnerable to neck and spinal injuries than adults, RAA recommends keeping a child in a rearward-facing restraint until at least 12 months of age, as this gives greater support and protection to the child’s head and neck in a crash.
For more information, download our 'Rearward vs forward facing' and 'Shoulder height markers' fact sheets.
While the convertible seats listed below are all approved to use from birth, we recommend using a dedicated baby capsule for the first 6-12 months, as they're specifically designed for this age bracket.
If you’re not sure a child is the right size for a restraint, or don’t know when to convert the seat to the next mode, check the restraint manual for guidance or book a fitting with RAA’s experts.
Watch our videos
Rearward facing installation video
Forward facing installation video
Rearward/Forward facing child restraints
Birth to approximately 30 months: rearward-facing; up to approximately 4 years: forward-facing:
Mother’s Choice Adore AP ISOFIX Convertible Car Seat
Member price: $289
Non-Member price: $299The Mother’s Choice Adore AP convertible car seat is suitable for newborns through to approximately 4 years of age. The seat allows for extended rearward-facing to approximately 30 months.
This car seat is simple to install with either the seatbelt or the ISOFIX compatible connectors. This seat has an easy adjust headrest and harness and has multiple forward facing recline positions.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, selected retail shops or online.
Safe-n-Sound QuickFix Convertible Car Seat
Member price: $329
Non-Member price: $349The Quickfix seat features a narrow shell and is compact when rearward facing. It takes up less room than some other seats with headrests, and its small base makes it easy to fit next to other restraints.
The harness can be adjusted easily from the front without removing the seat from the car, plus it allows small incremental adjustments for a better fit.
This extended rearward facing seat will allow the child to remain rearward facing until around 30 months of age.
The Quickfix also features two forward-facing positions and is ISOFIX compatible.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, select retail shops, or online.
Bundle pricing also available at the RAA Child Safety Centre, selected retail shops or online
InfaSecure Momentum Go Black Fleck Convertible Car Seat
Member price: $379
Non-Member price: $389The InfaSecure Momentum convertible car seat is suitable for newborns through to approximately 4 years of age. The seat allows for extended rearward-facing to approximately 30 months.
Lift & Adjust feature allows for one-handed adjustment of the headrest and shoulder slots from the top of the restraint. Simply lift the ring to adjust the head rest up or down, into your desired position. The Momentum Onyx includes 10 head rest positions, ensuring that the best possible harness fit can be achieved as your child grows in the car seat. The built-in 6 point harness will self adjust as the head rest is raised, growing with your child up to the age of 4.
This compact design is also ISOFIX compatible.
4-position recline when the car seat is in the forward-facing mode.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Britax Safe-n-Sound Graphene EA ISOFIX Convertible Car Seat
Members' price: $479
Non-Members' price: $499The Graphene EA offers a compact design which takes up minimal space in your car.
Now with frontal easy adjust, the headrest & harness height can be adjusted with ease to ensure a perfect harness fit as your child grows, without uninstalling the seat.
This extended rearward facing seat allows your child to remain rearward facing until they are 30 months old or (approximately 2-3 years old), which is safer for your child.
The Graphene EA is easy to install, is Isofix compatible, features a recline or upright position in forward facing mode for added comfort & offers Torso SICT™ (Side Impact Cushion Technology) to minimises the energy impact on your child’s chest and vital organs and reduces crash forces for greater protection.
Maxi Cosi Pria LX Convertible Car Seat
Members' price: $569
Non-Members' price: $599The Maxi Cosi Pria LX convertible car seat is suitable for newborns through to approximately 4 years of age. The seat allows for extended rearward-facing to approximately 30 months.
The SMART Guide® top tether routing system, creates a clear area free from barriers to place your baby into the seat.
The Maxi Cosi Pria LX has many features including:
- the SMART Lock belt system providing easy installation,
- compact design,
- 11-Position headrest adjustment to alter the harness height without removing the car seat from the car,
- 1 rearward recline position and 5 forward-facing recline positions, and,
- Air Protect Superior Side Impact Protection.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre and selected retail shops.
Maxi Cosi Pria LX G-Cell Isofix Convertible Car Seat
Member’s price $649
Non Member’s Price $679The Maxi Cosi Pria LX G-Cell convertible car seat is suitable for newborns through to approximately 4 years of age. The seat allows for extended rearward-facing to approximately 30 months.
The SMART Guide® top tether routing system, creates a clear area free from barriers to place your baby into the seat.
The Maxi Cosi Pria LX has many features including the SMART Lock belt system providing easy installation, is also isofix compatible, compact design, 11- Position headrest adjustment to alter the harness height without removing the car seat from the car, 1 rearward recline position & 5 forward-facing recline positions & provides head and torso protection with Air Protect® and G-CELL® side impact technology.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Maxi Cosi Raia LX Onyx Rotating Car Seat
Member’s price $949
Non Member’s Price $979Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX Rotating Car Seat – a premium 360° convertible car seat in Australia, designed for safety, comfort, and effortless convenience from newborn to approximately 4 years. The Raia 360’s rotating design lets you easily turn the seat towards you, making it quicker to get your child in and out — ideal for parents juggling busy routines.
Offering extended rearward facing for up to 30 months, Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX provides the highest level of protection for your child during their early years. Air Protect® side impact technology adds an extra layer of safety around the head and torso for maximum peace of mind.
Made with ECOCare fabrics crafted from 100% recycled materials, Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX offers soft, breathable comfort while supporting sustainability. Two built-in cup holders keep drinks and snacks close at hand for every trip and included for your convenience.
Enjoy confidence with the SMART Lock installation system and clear black-to-green safety indicators for a secure fit every time. With the top tether attached to the base, Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX keeps the tether neatly out of the way for smooth, hassle-free rotation.
Perfect for parents searching for a rotating convertible car seat that combines style, safety, and extended rearward facing with everyday ease, Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX is the smarter way to travel.
Birth to approximately 30 months: rearward-facing; up to approximately 8 years: forward-facing:
Mother’s Choice Ascend 0-8 years Convertible Car Seat
Members' price: $439
Non-Members' price: $449Compact rearward facing restraint with lots of supportive padding. Will accommodate children rearward facing up until approximately 30 months. Easy harness and headrest adjustments that can be done without taking seat out of vehicle.
Multiple forward facing recline positions and an adjustable crotch buckle to ensure a good harness fit for all ages.
The seat also features Air Protect side impact technology providing maximum head protection in a crash.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre and online.
Note: It's strongly recommended you test rearward-facing restraints in your vehicle before purchasing to ensure that they fit correctly. RAA invites you to visit our Child Safety Centre to try our range of restraints.
Extended harness seats (known as G-type seats)
Approximately 6 months to 8 years
These seats are forward-facing only and, although rated from 6 months, children rarely meet the minimum height markers at this age. Best practice dictates that children should be kept rearward-facing until at least 12 months of age, so we don't recommend using these seats until your child is at least a year old, at which time they should then meet the minimum height marker.
For more information, download our 'Shoulder height markers' fact sheet.
Mother's Choice Focus Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Member price: $259
Non-Member price: $269The Mother’s Choice Focus extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
Its five-point internal, one-handed adjustable headrest complemented with an automatic harness height adjustment. As your child grows, there's no need to rethread the harness.
The Focus’ compact seat design features a 2 position recline for extra comfort & crotch adjustment allowing you to adjust the height of the crotch buckle as your child grows.
Britax Safe-n-Sound Maxi Guard Harnessed Seat
Members price: $429
Non-Member price: $439Providing In-Built Harness Safety For Longer.
Maxi Guard is our Forward Facing Harnessed Seat with Active Head Restraint™ (AHR™) headrest. Suitable for growing children from approx 12 months (must meet the entry marker) through to approx to 8yrs.
The 6 point Hassle Free Harness™ keeps your most precious cargo securely restrained and safer for longer.
2 recline positions for comfort.
The easy adjust headrest can be height adjusted without uninstalling the seat. No need to rethread.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
InfaSecure Emerge Go Black Fleck Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Members' price: $469
Non-Members' price: $479The InfaSecure extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
The Emerge’s Twist & Lift™ system allows one-handed adjustment of the headrest and harness from the front of the restraint & the harness buckle is height adjustable without removing the restraint from the vehicle.
The Gradual Recline system is extremely easy to use, allowing unrestricted recline positions. The Emerge Go has a deep seating area that caters well for children with longer legs.
Great for use when transporting children of different ages.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Maxi Cosi Tuva LX Forward Facing Harnessed Booster Seat
Member price: $479
Non-Member price: $499The Maxi Cosi Tuva extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
Installation is simple and secure with the SMART Lock belt system, while the 9-position headrest and simultaneous harness adjustment allow for easy, on-the-go adaptability without needing to remove the seat.
The Tuva LX includes premium features such as patented Air Protect side-impact technology and GCELL® torso protection for trusted safety. Comfort is enhanced with cool wicking fabrics, a two-position recline, and a premium insert, keeping your child cosy in any season. Additional Maxi-Cosi features like magnetic harness holders, an adjustable crotch buckle, and dual cup holders make every journey smoother for both you and your child.
Great for use when transporting children of different ages.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
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4 to 7 years
Forward-facing child restraints or booster seats.
What the law says
- From 4 to 7 years old, children must use either an approved child safety seat with inbuilt harness or a booster seat with a properly fitted seatbelt. Booster seats must not be used with lap only belts.
- They mustn't travel in the front seat of a vehicle that has two or more rows of seats, unless all the other seats are occupied by children who are under 7 years old, or if it’s impossible to fit a third restraint.
- In vehicles with airbags in the front seat, always follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers will warn against placing children under the age of 12 in a position fitted with an airbag, and these warnings should be adhered to.
- The restraint must be:
- used and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
- securely attached to an anchorage point and seatbelt as specified
- maintained in sound condition and working order
All child restraints must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS1754) in order to gain approved status. Every compliant child restraint will feature a Standards Approved Certification sticker.
Our advice
As children grow and develop, their height and weight changes considerably. For many 4 year olds, a forward-facing seat will still be the right size restraint. A booster seat should only be used once the child has outgrown their harnessed seat, which is when they reach the top height marker. Another option is to use an extended harnessed seat that will take them all the way through to approximately 8 years of age using an inbuilt harness.
Boosters are designed to elevate a child so they can wear a seatbelt correctly while providing side protection from both the vehicle and other passengers. Children travelling in a booster seat should continue using it until they’ve outgrown it. If they outgrow their current booster and don’t fit the adult seatbelt correctly, then they'll need to use a larger booster seat.
Boosters must not be used in positions with lap only belts – use a harnessed seat in this position instead, leaving the lap sash belt for the booster.
For more information, download our Right child, right restraint, right time and Shoulder height markers fact sheets.
If you’re not sure a child is the right size for a child restraint, or don’t know when to convert the seat to the next mode, check the restraint manual for guidance or ask RAA's experts.
Watch our video:
Child restraint 4 to 7 years video
Booster seats
Approximately 4 to 8 years
If your child outgrows any of these boosters and can’t wear an adult seatbelt correctly, please contact us to see if there’s a larger one available.
Mother’s Choice Tribe AP Booster Seat
Members' price: $159
Non-Members' price: $169The Mother’s Choice Tribe AP booster is tall and narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap.
This booster seat provides continued safety for you child with revolutionary Air Protect TM Technology. This seat also features cup holders.
Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to see if you can achieve full extension.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre or online
Britax Safe-n-Sound Hi-Liner SG Booster
Members' price: $189
Non-Members' price: $199The Hi-Liner is tall and narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap.
It features a slide guard clip, which helps prevent a child from sliding off the seat and guides the lap part of the belt across the hips.
Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, retail shops or online.
Maxi Cosi Rodi AP Booster Seat
Members' price: $169
Non-Members price: $185The Maxi Cosi Rodi is one of the tallest boosters on the market and is also very narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap.
This booster features a two-position recline and expandable side wings.
Not only is it one of the tallest boosters on the market, it also has a rounded headrest, making it easier to fit in most vehicles when fully extended.
The seat also includes Air Protect Superior Side Impact Technology that provides excellent side impact protection.
Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, selected shops, or online.
InfaSecure Versatile Folding Booster Seat
Members' price: $80
Non-Members' price: $85The Versatile Folding Booster is a unique Booster Seat designed for ease of use and portability. It is suitable from 4 to 8 years of age. Its a lightweight booster that folds making an easy option to travel with.
This booster seat is untethered which enables use in vehicle that have a third row of seats without anchorage fitted.
Although included in the same age category as other boosters, this seat is not as tall as a booster with an adjustable head rest.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Britax Safe-n-Sound Tourer
Members' price: $90
Non-Members' price: $95The Tourer is a lightweight, untethered booster that’s primarily designed for use in utilities and vans and the third row of SUVs where there are no anchor points.
Although included in the same age category as other boosters, this seat is not as tall as a boosters with an adjustable head rest.
This booster seat is untethered which enables use in vehicles that have a third row of seats without anchorage fitted.
Rear impact bars provide structural support and protection for the neck and a switchable sash guide helps correctly position the seatbelt.
It also features a slide guard clip, which helps prevent a child from sliding off the seat and guides the lap part of the belt across the hips.
Available to purchase from the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Approximately 4 years to 10 years
Britax Safe-n-Sound Kid Guard
Member's price: $219
Non-Members' price: $229The Kid Guard is one of the tallest boosters on the market and has a very narrow base that allows for easy seatbelt buckle access. The seat has an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap.
It also features expandable lower side wings, an extendable seat base and a slide guard clip to prevent the child sliding under the seatbelt in a crash.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre or online.
Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension.
Extended harness seats (known as G-type seats)
Approximately 6 months to 8 years
These seats are forward facing only and, although rated from 6 months, children rarely meet the minimum height markers at this age. Children should be kept rearward-facing until at least 12 months of age, so we don't recommend using these seats until your child is at least a year old, at which time they should then meet the minimum height marker.
For more information, download our 'Shoulder height markers' fact sheet.
Mother’s Choice Focus Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Members' price: $259
Non Members' price: $269The Mother’s Choice Focus extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
Its five-point internal, one-handed adjustable headrest complemented with an automatic harness height adjustment. As your child grows, there's no need to rethread the harness.
The Focus’ compact seat design features a 2 position recline for extra comfort and crotch adjustment allowing you to adjust the height of the crotch buckle as your child grows.
Great for use when transporting children of different ages.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Britax Safe-n-Sound Maxi Guard Harnessed Seat
Members' price: $429
Non-Members' price: $439Maxi Guard is a Forward Facing Harnessed Seat with Active Head Restraint™ (AHR™) headrest. Suitable for growing children from approximately 12 months (must meet the entry marker) through to approximately 8 years old.
The 6 point Hassle Free Harness™ keeps your most precious cargo securely restrained and safer for longer.
2 recline positions for comfort.
The easy adjust headrest can be height adjusted without uninstalling the seat. No need to rethread.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
InfaSecure Emerge Go Black Fleck Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Members' price: $469
Non-Members' price: $479The InfaSecure extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
The Emerge’s Twist & Lift™ system allows one-handed adjustment of the headrest and harness from the front of the restraint & the harness buckle is height adjustable without removing the restraint from the vehicle.
The Gradual Recline system is extremely easy to use, allowing unrestricted recline positions. The Emerge Go has a deep seating area that caters well for children with longer legs.
Great for use when transporting children of different ages.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Maxi Cosi Tuva LX Forward Facing Harnessed Booster Seat
Members' price: $479
Non-Members' price: $499The Maxi Cosi Tuva extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
Installation is simple and secure with the SMART Lock belt system, while the 9-position headrest and simultaneous harness adjustment allow for easy, on-the-go adaptability without needing to remove the seat.
The Tuva LX includes premium features such as patented Air Protect side-impact technology and GCELL® torso protection for trusted safety. Comfort is enhanced with cool wicking fabrics, a two-position recline, and a premium insert, keeping your child cosy in any season. Additional Maxi-Cosi features like magnetic harness holders, an adjustable crotch buckle, and dual cup holders make every journey smoother for both you and your child.
Great for use when transporting children of different ages.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
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7 years and over
Booster seat or adult seatbelt.
What the law says
- Children 7 years and over are required to be secured in an approved child restraint (e.g. extended harnessed seat or booster seat) or a properly fitted and adjusted seatbelt.
- Note: A properly adjusted seatbelt is where the sash part sits on the shoulder and the lap part sits low across the hips or upper thighs.
- In vehicles with airbags in the front seat, always follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers will warn against placing children under the age of 12 in a position fitted with an airbag, and these warnings should be adhered to.
- The restraint must be:
- used and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
- securely attached to an anchorage point and seatbelt as specified
- maintained in sound condition and working order.
All child restraints must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS1754) in order to gain approved status. Every compliant child restraint will feature a Standards Approved Certification sticker.
Booster seat/extended harnessed seat or correctly fitted seatbelt
Just because a child has reached 7 years of age, it doesn’t mean they are going to be able to move out of their booster and into an adult seatbelt.
The law says the adult seatbelt must fit them correctly. If it doesn’t, they’ll need to stay in an approved booster or child restraint until it does. Seatbelt fit varies from car to car and even from position to position in the same car, but most kids aren’t big enough to fit properly into an adult seatbelt until they’re about 10 to 12 years of age (approximately 145cm).
There’s an important safety reason for this - vehicle seats and seatbelts are designed for adult bodies. Just because a child is 7 years old, it doesn't mean they're large enough to fit in a seatbelt or seat designed for adults. A child that moves into an adult seatbelt too early is twice as likely to suffer devastating injuries in a crash.
View our range of booster seats and extended harnessed seats covered in the previous tab (4 to 7 years).
Lap-sash seatbelts offer greater protection to passengers than lap-only seatbelts, so try to always use a lap-sash belt when your child moves into an adult seatbelt.
If your front seat has airbags, you should also check the manufacture's recommendations. Most car makers will warn against placing children under the age of 12 years in a position fitted with an airbag, and these warning should be adhered to.
Watch our video:
Child restraint 7 years + video
How do I know when the seatbelt fits them correctly?
Try this simple 3-point test:
- Does the sash part of the seatbelt sit on the middle of the shoulder and not touch the neck or face?
- Does the lap part of the seatbelt sit low down on the hips and not on the abdomen?
- When you sit the child on the seat with their bottom all the way back, are their thighs long enough for their knees to bend, allowing the legs to hang over the front of the seat?
If you answered 'no' to any of these questions, your child needs to be in a booster seat to make both the sash and the lap part of the seatbelt fit right, and to ensure maximum crash protection.
If you’re unsure, you can book a fitting with RAA’s experts.
If your child has outgrown their booster seat, but can’t wear an adult seatbelt correctly, please contact RAA’s Safety Centre on 8202 4592 to see if there’s a larger one available.
For more information, download our What happens after 7 years of age? and Shoulder height markers fact sheets.
Booster seats
Approximately 4 to 8 years
If your child outgrows any of these boosters and can’t wear an adult seatbelt correctly, please contact us to see if there’s a larger one available.
Mother’s Choice Tribe AP Booster Seat
Members' price: $159
Non-Members' price: $169The Mother’s Choice Tribe AP booster is tall and narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap.
This booster seat provides continued safety for you child with revolutionary Air Protect Technology. This seat also features cup holders.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to see if you can achieve full extension.
Britax Safe-n-Sound Hi-Liner SG Booster
Members' price: $189
Non-Members' price: $199The Hi-Liner is tall and narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap.
It features a slide guard clip, which helps prevent a child from sliding off the seat and guides the lap part of the belt across the hips.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, retail shops or online.
Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension.
Maxi Cosi Rodi AP Booster Seat
Members' price: $169
Non-Members' Price: $185The Maxi Cosi Rodi is one of the tallest boosters on the market and is also very narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap.
This booster features a two-position recline and expandable side wings.
Not only is it one of the tallest boosters on the market, it also has a rounded headrest, making it easier to fit in most vehicles when fully extended.
The seat also includes Air Protect Superior Side Impact Technology that provides excellent side impact protection.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre or online.
Bundle also available at the RAA Child Safety Centre or online.
Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure it fits.
InfaSecure Versatile Folding Booster Booster Seat
Members' price: $80
Non Member’s Price $85The Versatile Folding Booster is a unique Booster Seat designed for ease of use and portability. It is suitable from 4 to 8 years of age. Its a lightweight booster that folds making an easy option to travel with.
This booster seat is untethered which enables use in vehicle that have a third row of seats without anchorage fitted.
Although included in the same age category as other boosters, this seat is not as tall as a boosters with an adjustable head rest.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Britax Safe-n-Sound Tourer
Members' price: $90
Non-Members' price: $95The Tourer is a lightweight, untethered booster that’s primarily designed for use in utes and vans and the third row of SUVs where there are no anchor points.
This booster seat is untethered which enables use in vehicle that have a third row of seats without anchorage fitted.
Although included in the same age category as other boosters, this seat is not as tall as a boosters with an adjustable head rest.
Rear impact bars provide structural support and protection for the neck and a switchable sash guide helps correctly position the seatbelt.
It also features a slide guard clip, which helps prevent a child from sliding off the seat and guides the lap part of the belt across the hips.
Available to purchase from the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Approximately 4 years to 10 years
Britax Safe-n-Sound Kid Guard Booster Seat
Member's price: $219
Non-Members' price: $229The Kid Guard is one of the tallest boosters on the market and has a very narrow base that allows for easy seatbelt buckle access. The seat has an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap.
It also features expandable lower side wings, an extendable seat base and a slide guard clip to prevent the child sliding under the seatbelt in a crash.
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension.
Extended harness seats (known as G-type seats)
Approximately 6 months to 8 years
These seats are forward facing only and, although rated from 6 months, children rarely meet the minimum height markers at this age. Children should be kept rearward-facing until at least 12 months of age, so we don't recommend using these seats until your child is at least a year old, at which time they should then meet the minimum height marker.
For more information, download our 'Shoulder height markers' fact sheet.
Mother’s Choice Focus Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Members' price: $259
Non-Members' price: $269The Mother’s Choice Focus extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
Its five-point internal, one-handed adjustable headrest complemented with an automatic harness height adjustment. As your child grows, there's no need to rethread the harness.
The Focus’ compact seat design features a 2 position recline for extra comfort and crotch adjustment allowing you to adjust the height of the crotch buckle as your child grows.
Great for use when transporting children of different ages.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Britax Safe-n-Sound Maxi Guard Harnessed Seat
Members' price: $429
Non Members' price: $439Maxi Guard is a Forward Facing Harnessed Seat with Active Head Restraint™ (AHR™) headrest. Suitable for growing children from approximately 12 months (must meet the entry marker) through to approximately 8 years old.
The 6 point Hassle Free Harness™ keeps your most precious cargo securely restrained and safer for longer.
Two recline positions for comfort. The easy adjust headrest can be height adjusted without uninstalling the seat. No need to rethread.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
InfaSecure Emerge Go Black Fleck Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Members' price: $469
Non-Members' price: $479The InfaSecure extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
The Emerge’s Twist & Lift™ system allows one-handed adjustment of the headrest and harness from the front of the restraint & the harness buckle is height adjustable without removing the restraint from the vehicle.
The Gradual Recline system is extremely easy to use, allowing unrestricted recline positions. The Emerge Go has a deep seating area that caters well for children with longer legs.
Great for use when transporting children of different ages.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Maxi Cosi Tuva LX Forward Facing Harnessed Booster Seat
Members' price: $449
Non-Members' price: $499The Maxi Cosi Tuva extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness.
Installation is simple and secure with the SMART Lock belt system, while the 9-position headrest and simultaneous harness adjustment allow for easy, on-the-go adaptability without needing to remove the seat.
The Tuva LX includes premium features such as patented Air Protect side-impact technology and GCELL® torso protection for trusted safety. Comfort is enhanced with cool wicking fabrics, a two-position recline, and a premium insert, keeping your child cosy in any season. Additional Maxi-Cosi features like magnetic harness holders, an adjustable crotch buckle, and dual cup holders make every journey smoother for both you and your child.
Great for use when transporting children of different ages.
Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre.
Rearward-facing child restraints.
What the law says
- Infants up to 6 months old must use an approved rearward-facing child restraint and mustn't travel in the front seat of a vehicle that has two or more rows of seats.
- If you have a single-row vehicle – such as a ute or van – a rearward-facing child restraint can be used in the front seat, as long as there are no airbags in that position and an anchorage point is available. Using a rearward-facing restraint in a front seat where there’s an airbag is illegal and extremely dangerous.
- Your restraint must be:
- used and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
- securely attached to an anchorage point and seatbelt as specified
- maintained in sound condition and working order
All child restraints must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS1754) in order to gain approved status. Every compliant child restraint will feature a Standards Approved Certification sticker.
Our advice
RAA recommends using a capsule for the first 6-12 months and then moving your child into a convertible seat that allows them to stay rearward facing until at least 12 months of age.
Baby capsules are designed specifically for the first months of a baby’s life and feature a narrower shell and harness fit, plus a lower harness slot height than convertible safety seats. This means the baby is held more securely.
There are some capsules available that have been tested and certified for low-birthweight (LBW) babies. According to an Australian study, LBW babies are 3 times more likely to get poor harness fit than average birthweight babies in a child restraint not suited to LBW babies.
For more information, download our Right child, right restraint, right time, Shoulder height markers and Child restraints for low-birthweight babies fact sheets.
Note: It's strongly recommended you test rearward-facing restraints in your vehicle before purchasing to ensure that they fit correctly. Visit our Child Safety Centre to try our range of restraints before purchasing. Free installations are provided for restraints purchased from the RAA within the last 12 months (a saving of $45 per restraint). For further information please refer to the Terms and Conditions (PDF, 78kb).
Dedicated infant restraints
Birth to approximately 12 months
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Britax B-Pod Low Birth Weight Baby CapsuleMembers' price: $469 The B-Pod baby capsule is suitable for newborns up to 12 months and low birth weight and premature infants without restrictive medical conditions. Travel system, click and go compatibility with a wide assortment of stroller brands. Featuring the latest ClickTight system, designed to provide effortless and secure installation on every single ride. B-pod is lightweight, a must-have for parents on the go. It can be easily carried and quickly transferred from home to the car to the stroller, making it a breeze to take your baby out and about. |
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Maxi Cosi Mico 12 LX Pro Non Isofix Baby CapsuleMembers' price: $479 The Mico 12LX Pro Non Isofix is a stylish, fully featured baby capsule, designed to support newborns from low birth weight up to 12 months of age. The Mico 12LX Pro features a lightweight design, made to support newborns from low birth weight up to 12 months of age. Safety meets sustainability with innovative Air Protect® side impact technology, SMART Lock installation system and soft-touch ECOCare fabrics, made with 100% recycled materials. The Mico 12LX Pro is engineered for modern families on the move. Easily connect your baby capsule with most leading stroller brands to create a seamless travel system, making every outing effortless from car to stroller and back again. |
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Maxi Cosi Mico 12 LX Pro Isofix Baby CapsuleMembers' price: $529 The Mico 12LX Pro Isofix is a stylish, fully featured baby capsule, designed to support newborns from low birth weight up to 12 months of age. The Mico 12LX Pro features a lightweight design, made to support newborns from low birth weight up to 12 months of age. Safety meets sustainability with innovative Air Protect® side impact technology, SMART Lock installation system, Isofix compatible and soft-touch ECOCare fabrics, made with 100% recycled materials. The Mico 12LX Pro is engineered for modern families on the move. Easily connect your baby capsule with most leading stroller brands to create a seamless travel system, making every outing effortless from car to stroller and back again. |
Rearward or forward-facing child restraints.
What the law says
- Children aged between 6 months and 4 years old must use either an approved rearward-facing restraint or forward-facing child safety seat with an inbuilt harness, and mustn't travel in the front seat of a vehicle that has two or more rows of seats.
- If you have a single-row vehicle – such as a ute or van – a forward-facing child restraint can legally be used in the front seat, as long as there’s an anchorage point available. In vehicles with airbags in the front seat, always follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers will warn against placing children under the age of 12 in a position fitted with an airbag, and these warnings should be adhered to.
- The restraint must be:
- used and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
- securely attached to an anchorage point and seatbelt as specified
- maintained in sound condition and working order
All child restraints must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS1754) in order to gain approved status. Every compliant child restraint will feature a Standards Approved Certification sticker.
Our advice
Although the law states a child must be a minimum of 6 months old to go forward facing, it is much safer for them to rearward face for longer. Each seat has shoulder height markers that determine when it is legal and safe for the child to face forward – these markers must be followed. Most seats will not accommodate the forward-facing position until at least 12 months with some seats rated up to 30 months.
As children are far more vulnerable to neck and spinal injuries than adults, RAA recommends keeping a child in a rearward-facing restraint until at least 12 months of age, as this gives greater support and protection to the child’s head and neck in a crash.
For more information, download our 'Rearward vs forward facing' and 'Shoulder height markers' fact sheets.
While the convertible seats listed below are all approved to use from birth, we recommend using a dedicated baby capsule for the first 6-12 months, as they're specifically designed for this age bracket.
If you’re not sure a child is the right size for a restraint, or don’t know when to convert the seat to the next mode, check the restraint manual for guidance or book a fitting with RAA’s experts.
Watch our videos
Rearward facing installation video
Forward facing installation video
Rearward/Forward facing child restraints
Birth to approximately 30 months: rearward-facing; up to approximately 4 years: forward-facing:
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Mother’s Choice Adore AP ISOFIX Convertible Car SeatMember price: $289 The Mother’s Choice Adore AP convertible car seat is suitable for newborns through to approximately 4 years of age. The seat allows for extended rearward-facing to approximately 30 months. This car seat is simple to install with either the seatbelt or the ISOFIX compatible connectors. This seat has an easy adjust headrest and harness and has multiple forward facing recline positions. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, selected retail shops or online. |
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Safe-n-Sound QuickFix Convertible Car SeatMember price: $329 The Quickfix seat features a narrow shell and is compact when rearward facing. It takes up less room than some other seats with headrests, and its small base makes it easy to fit next to other restraints. The harness can be adjusted easily from the front without removing the seat from the car, plus it allows small incremental adjustments for a better fit. This extended rearward facing seat will allow the child to remain rearward facing until around 30 months of age. The Quickfix also features two forward-facing positions and is ISOFIX compatible. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, select retail shops, or online. Bundle pricing also available at the RAA Child Safety Centre, selected retail shops or online |
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InfaSecure Momentum Go Black Fleck Convertible Car SeatMember price: $379 The InfaSecure Momentum convertible car seat is suitable for newborns through to approximately 4 years of age. The seat allows for extended rearward-facing to approximately 30 months. Lift & Adjust feature allows for one-handed adjustment of the headrest and shoulder slots from the top of the restraint. Simply lift the ring to adjust the head rest up or down, into your desired position. The Momentum Onyx includes 10 head rest positions, ensuring that the best possible harness fit can be achieved as your child grows in the car seat. The built-in 6 point harness will self adjust as the head rest is raised, growing with your child up to the age of 4. This compact design is also ISOFIX compatible. 4-position recline when the car seat is in the forward-facing mode. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Britax Safe-n-Sound Graphene EA ISOFIX Convertible Car SeatMembers' price: $479 The Graphene EA offers a compact design which takes up minimal space in your car. Now with frontal easy adjust, the headrest & harness height can be adjusted with ease to ensure a perfect harness fit as your child grows, without uninstalling the seat. This extended rearward facing seat allows your child to remain rearward facing until they are 30 months old or (approximately 2-3 years old), which is safer for your child. The Graphene EA is easy to install, is Isofix compatible, features a recline or upright position in forward facing mode for added comfort & offers Torso SICT™ (Side Impact Cushion Technology) to minimises the energy impact on your child’s chest and vital organs and reduces crash forces for greater protection. |
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Maxi Cosi Pria LX Convertible Car SeatMembers' price: $569 The Maxi Cosi Pria LX convertible car seat is suitable for newborns through to approximately 4 years of age. The seat allows for extended rearward-facing to approximately 30 months. The SMART Guide® top tether routing system, creates a clear area free from barriers to place your baby into the seat. The Maxi Cosi Pria LX has many features including:
Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre and selected retail shops. |
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Maxi Cosi Pria LX G-Cell Isofix Convertible Car SeatMember’s price $649 The Maxi Cosi Pria LX G-Cell convertible car seat is suitable for newborns through to approximately 4 years of age. The seat allows for extended rearward-facing to approximately 30 months. The SMART Guide® top tether routing system, creates a clear area free from barriers to place your baby into the seat. The Maxi Cosi Pria LX has many features including the SMART Lock belt system providing easy installation, is also isofix compatible, compact design, 11- Position headrest adjustment to alter the harness height without removing the car seat from the car, 1 rearward recline position & 5 forward-facing recline positions & provides head and torso protection with Air Protect® and G-CELL® side impact technology. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Maxi Cosi Raia LX Onyx Rotating Car SeatMember’s price $949 Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX Rotating Car Seat – a premium 360° convertible car seat in Australia, designed for safety, comfort, and effortless convenience from newborn to approximately 4 years. The Raia 360’s rotating design lets you easily turn the seat towards you, making it quicker to get your child in and out — ideal for parents juggling busy routines. Offering extended rearward facing for up to 30 months, Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX provides the highest level of protection for your child during their early years. Air Protect® side impact technology adds an extra layer of safety around the head and torso for maximum peace of mind. Made with ECOCare fabrics crafted from 100% recycled materials, Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX offers soft, breathable comfort while supporting sustainability. Two built-in cup holders keep drinks and snacks close at hand for every trip and included for your convenience. Enjoy confidence with the SMART Lock installation system and clear black-to-green safety indicators for a secure fit every time. With the top tether attached to the base, Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX keeps the tether neatly out of the way for smooth, hassle-free rotation. Perfect for parents searching for a rotating convertible car seat that combines style, safety, and extended rearward facing with everyday ease, Maxi-Cosi Raia 360 LX is the smarter way to travel. |
Birth to approximately 30 months: rearward-facing; up to approximately 8 years: forward-facing:
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Mother’s Choice Ascend 0-8 years Convertible Car SeatMembers' price: $439 Compact rearward facing restraint with lots of supportive padding. Will accommodate children rearward facing up until approximately 30 months. Easy harness and headrest adjustments that can be done without taking seat out of vehicle. Multiple forward facing recline positions and an adjustable crotch buckle to ensure a good harness fit for all ages. The seat also features Air Protect side impact technology providing maximum head protection in a crash. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre and online. |
Note: It's strongly recommended you test rearward-facing restraints in your vehicle before purchasing to ensure that they fit correctly. RAA invites you to visit our Child Safety Centre to try our range of restraints.
Extended harness seats (known as G-type seats)
Approximately 6 months to 8 years
These seats are forward-facing only and, although rated from 6 months, children rarely meet the minimum height markers at this age. Best practice dictates that children should be kept rearward-facing until at least 12 months of age, so we don't recommend using these seats until your child is at least a year old, at which time they should then meet the minimum height marker.
For more information, download our 'Shoulder height markers' fact sheet.
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Mother's Choice Focus Forward Facing Harnessed Car SeatMember price: $259 The Mother’s Choice Focus extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. Its five-point internal, one-handed adjustable headrest complemented with an automatic harness height adjustment. As your child grows, there's no need to rethread the harness. The Focus’ compact seat design features a 2 position recline for extra comfort & crotch adjustment allowing you to adjust the height of the crotch buckle as your child grows. |
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Britax Safe-n-Sound Maxi Guard Harnessed SeatMembers price: $429 Providing In-Built Harness Safety For Longer. Maxi Guard is our Forward Facing Harnessed Seat with Active Head Restraint™ (AHR™) headrest. Suitable for growing children from approx 12 months (must meet the entry marker) through to approx to 8yrs. The 6 point Hassle Free Harness™ keeps your most precious cargo securely restrained and safer for longer. 2 recline positions for comfort. The easy adjust headrest can be height adjusted without uninstalling the seat. No need to rethread. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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InfaSecure Emerge Go Black Fleck Forward Facing Harnessed Car SeatMembers' price: $469 The InfaSecure extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. The Emerge’s Twist & Lift™ system allows one-handed adjustment of the headrest and harness from the front of the restraint & the harness buckle is height adjustable without removing the restraint from the vehicle. The Gradual Recline system is extremely easy to use, allowing unrestricted recline positions. The Emerge Go has a deep seating area that caters well for children with longer legs. Great for use when transporting children of different ages. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Maxi Cosi Tuva LX Forward Facing Harnessed Booster SeatMember price: $479 The Maxi Cosi Tuva extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. Installation is simple and secure with the SMART Lock belt system, while the 9-position headrest and simultaneous harness adjustment allow for easy, on-the-go adaptability without needing to remove the seat. The Tuva LX includes premium features such as patented Air Protect side-impact technology and GCELL® torso protection for trusted safety. Comfort is enhanced with cool wicking fabrics, a two-position recline, and a premium insert, keeping your child cosy in any season. Additional Maxi-Cosi features like magnetic harness holders, an adjustable crotch buckle, and dual cup holders make every journey smoother for both you and your child. Great for use when transporting children of different ages. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
Forward-facing child restraints or booster seats.
What the law says
- From 4 to 7 years old, children must use either an approved child safety seat with inbuilt harness or a booster seat with a properly fitted seatbelt. Booster seats must not be used with lap only belts.
- They mustn't travel in the front seat of a vehicle that has two or more rows of seats, unless all the other seats are occupied by children who are under 7 years old, or if it’s impossible to fit a third restraint.
- In vehicles with airbags in the front seat, always follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers will warn against placing children under the age of 12 in a position fitted with an airbag, and these warnings should be adhered to.
- The restraint must be:
- used and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
- securely attached to an anchorage point and seatbelt as specified
- maintained in sound condition and working order
All child restraints must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS1754) in order to gain approved status. Every compliant child restraint will feature a Standards Approved Certification sticker.
Our advice
As children grow and develop, their height and weight changes considerably. For many 4 year olds, a forward-facing seat will still be the right size restraint. A booster seat should only be used once the child has outgrown their harnessed seat, which is when they reach the top height marker. Another option is to use an extended harnessed seat that will take them all the way through to approximately 8 years of age using an inbuilt harness.
Boosters are designed to elevate a child so they can wear a seatbelt correctly while providing side protection from both the vehicle and other passengers. Children travelling in a booster seat should continue using it until they’ve outgrown it. If they outgrow their current booster and don’t fit the adult seatbelt correctly, then they'll need to use a larger booster seat.
Boosters must not be used in positions with lap only belts – use a harnessed seat in this position instead, leaving the lap sash belt for the booster.
For more information, download our Right child, right restraint, right time and Shoulder height markers fact sheets.
If you’re not sure a child is the right size for a child restraint, or don’t know when to convert the seat to the next mode, check the restraint manual for guidance or ask RAA's experts.
Watch our video:
Child restraint 4 to 7 years video
Booster seats
Approximately 4 to 8 years
If your child outgrows any of these boosters and can’t wear an adult seatbelt correctly, please contact us to see if there’s a larger one available.
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Mother’s Choice Tribe AP Booster SeatMembers' price: $159 The Mother’s Choice Tribe AP booster is tall and narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap. This booster seat provides continued safety for you child with revolutionary Air Protect TM Technology. This seat also features cup holders. Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to see if you can achieve full extension. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre or online |
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Britax Safe-n-Sound Hi-Liner SG BoosterMembers' price: $189 The Hi-Liner is tall and narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap. It features a slide guard clip, which helps prevent a child from sliding off the seat and guides the lap part of the belt across the hips. Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, retail shops or online. |
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Maxi Cosi Rodi AP Booster SeatMembers' price: $169 The Maxi Cosi Rodi is one of the tallest boosters on the market and is also very narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap. This booster features a two-position recline and expandable side wings. Not only is it one of the tallest boosters on the market, it also has a rounded headrest, making it easier to fit in most vehicles when fully extended. The seat also includes Air Protect Superior Side Impact Technology that provides excellent side impact protection. Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, selected shops, or online. |
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InfaSecure Versatile Folding Booster SeatMembers' price: $80 The Versatile Folding Booster is a unique Booster Seat designed for ease of use and portability. It is suitable from 4 to 8 years of age. Its a lightweight booster that folds making an easy option to travel with. This booster seat is untethered which enables use in vehicle that have a third row of seats without anchorage fitted. Although included in the same age category as other boosters, this seat is not as tall as a booster with an adjustable head rest. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Britax Safe-n-Sound TourerMembers' price: $90 The Tourer is a lightweight, untethered booster that’s primarily designed for use in utilities and vans and the third row of SUVs where there are no anchor points. Although included in the same age category as other boosters, this seat is not as tall as a boosters with an adjustable head rest. This booster seat is untethered which enables use in vehicles that have a third row of seats without anchorage fitted. Rear impact bars provide structural support and protection for the neck and a switchable sash guide helps correctly position the seatbelt. It also features a slide guard clip, which helps prevent a child from sliding off the seat and guides the lap part of the belt across the hips. Available to purchase from the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
Approximately 4 years to 10 years
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Britax Safe-n-Sound Kid GuardMember's price: $219 The Kid Guard is one of the tallest boosters on the market and has a very narrow base that allows for easy seatbelt buckle access. The seat has an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap. It also features expandable lower side wings, an extendable seat base and a slide guard clip to prevent the child sliding under the seatbelt in a crash. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre or online. Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension. |
Extended harness seats (known as G-type seats)
Approximately 6 months to 8 years
These seats are forward facing only and, although rated from 6 months, children rarely meet the minimum height markers at this age. Children should be kept rearward-facing until at least 12 months of age, so we don't recommend using these seats until your child is at least a year old, at which time they should then meet the minimum height marker.
For more information, download our 'Shoulder height markers' fact sheet.
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Mother’s Choice Focus Forward Facing Harnessed Car SeatMembers' price: $259 The Mother’s Choice Focus extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. Its five-point internal, one-handed adjustable headrest complemented with an automatic harness height adjustment. As your child grows, there's no need to rethread the harness. The Focus’ compact seat design features a 2 position recline for extra comfort and crotch adjustment allowing you to adjust the height of the crotch buckle as your child grows. Great for use when transporting children of different ages. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Britax Safe-n-Sound Maxi Guard Harnessed SeatMembers' price: $429 Maxi Guard is a Forward Facing Harnessed Seat with Active Head Restraint™ (AHR™) headrest. Suitable for growing children from approximately 12 months (must meet the entry marker) through to approximately 8 years old. The 6 point Hassle Free Harness™ keeps your most precious cargo securely restrained and safer for longer. 2 recline positions for comfort. The easy adjust headrest can be height adjusted without uninstalling the seat. No need to rethread. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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InfaSecure Emerge Go Black Fleck Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Members' price: $469 The InfaSecure extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. The Emerge’s Twist & Lift™ system allows one-handed adjustment of the headrest and harness from the front of the restraint & the harness buckle is height adjustable without removing the restraint from the vehicle. The Gradual Recline system is extremely easy to use, allowing unrestricted recline positions. The Emerge Go has a deep seating area that caters well for children with longer legs. Great for use when transporting children of different ages. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Maxi Cosi Tuva LX Forward Facing Harnessed Booster Seat
Members' price: $479 The Maxi Cosi Tuva extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. Installation is simple and secure with the SMART Lock belt system, while the 9-position headrest and simultaneous harness adjustment allow for easy, on-the-go adaptability without needing to remove the seat. The Tuva LX includes premium features such as patented Air Protect side-impact technology and GCELL® torso protection for trusted safety. Comfort is enhanced with cool wicking fabrics, a two-position recline, and a premium insert, keeping your child cosy in any season. Additional Maxi-Cosi features like magnetic harness holders, an adjustable crotch buckle, and dual cup holders make every journey smoother for both you and your child. Great for use when transporting children of different ages. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
Booster seat or adult seatbelt.
What the law says
- Children 7 years and over are required to be secured in an approved child restraint (e.g. extended harnessed seat or booster seat) or a properly fitted and adjusted seatbelt.
- Note: A properly adjusted seatbelt is where the sash part sits on the shoulder and the lap part sits low across the hips or upper thighs.
- In vehicles with airbags in the front seat, always follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers will warn against placing children under the age of 12 in a position fitted with an airbag, and these warnings should be adhered to.
- The restraint must be:
- used and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications
- securely attached to an anchorage point and seatbelt as specified
- maintained in sound condition and working order.
All child restraints must comply with the Australian Standard (AS/NZS1754) in order to gain approved status. Every compliant child restraint will feature a Standards Approved Certification sticker.
Booster seat/extended harnessed seat or correctly fitted seatbelt
Just because a child has reached 7 years of age, it doesn’t mean they are going to be able to move out of their booster and into an adult seatbelt.
The law says the adult seatbelt must fit them correctly. If it doesn’t, they’ll need to stay in an approved booster or child restraint until it does. Seatbelt fit varies from car to car and even from position to position in the same car, but most kids aren’t big enough to fit properly into an adult seatbelt until they’re about 10 to 12 years of age (approximately 145cm).
There’s an important safety reason for this - vehicle seats and seatbelts are designed for adult bodies. Just because a child is 7 years old, it doesn't mean they're large enough to fit in a seatbelt or seat designed for adults. A child that moves into an adult seatbelt too early is twice as likely to suffer devastating injuries in a crash.
View our range of booster seats and extended harnessed seats covered in the previous tab (4 to 7 years).
Lap-sash seatbelts offer greater protection to passengers than lap-only seatbelts, so try to always use a lap-sash belt when your child moves into an adult seatbelt.
If your front seat has airbags, you should also check the manufacture's recommendations. Most car makers will warn against placing children under the age of 12 years in a position fitted with an airbag, and these warning should be adhered to.
Watch our video:
Child restraint 7 years + video
How do I know when the seatbelt fits them correctly?
Try this simple 3-point test:
- Does the sash part of the seatbelt sit on the middle of the shoulder and not touch the neck or face?
- Does the lap part of the seatbelt sit low down on the hips and not on the abdomen?
- When you sit the child on the seat with their bottom all the way back, are their thighs long enough for their knees to bend, allowing the legs to hang over the front of the seat?
If you answered 'no' to any of these questions, your child needs to be in a booster seat to make both the sash and the lap part of the seatbelt fit right, and to ensure maximum crash protection.
If you’re unsure, you can book a fitting with RAA’s experts.
If your child has outgrown their booster seat, but can’t wear an adult seatbelt correctly, please contact RAA’s Safety Centre on 8202 4592 to see if there’s a larger one available.
For more information, download our What happens after 7 years of age? and Shoulder height markers fact sheets.
Booster seats
Approximately 4 to 8 years
If your child outgrows any of these boosters and can’t wear an adult seatbelt correctly, please contact us to see if there’s a larger one available.
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Mother’s Choice Tribe AP Booster SeatMembers' price: $159 The Mother’s Choice Tribe AP booster is tall and narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap. This booster seat provides continued safety for you child with revolutionary Air Protect Technology. This seat also features cup holders. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to see if you can achieve full extension. |
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Britax Safe-n-Sound Hi-Liner SG BoosterMembers' price: $189 The Hi-Liner is tall and narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap. It features a slide guard clip, which helps prevent a child from sliding off the seat and guides the lap part of the belt across the hips. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre, retail shops or online. Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension. |
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Maxi Cosi Rodi AP Booster SeatMembers' price: $169 The Maxi Cosi Rodi is one of the tallest boosters on the market and is also very narrow with an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap. This booster features a two-position recline and expandable side wings. Not only is it one of the tallest boosters on the market, it also has a rounded headrest, making it easier to fit in most vehicles when fully extended. The seat also includes Air Protect Superior Side Impact Technology that provides excellent side impact protection. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre or online. Bundle also available at the RAA Child Safety Centre or online. Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure it fits. |
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InfaSecure Versatile Folding Booster Booster SeatMembers' price: $80 The Versatile Folding Booster is a unique Booster Seat designed for ease of use and portability. It is suitable from 4 to 8 years of age. Its a lightweight booster that folds making an easy option to travel with. This booster seat is untethered which enables use in vehicle that have a third row of seats without anchorage fitted. Although included in the same age category as other boosters, this seat is not as tall as a boosters with an adjustable head rest. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Britax Safe-n-Sound TourerMembers' price: $90 The Tourer is a lightweight, untethered booster that’s primarily designed for use in utes and vans and the third row of SUVs where there are no anchor points. This booster seat is untethered which enables use in vehicle that have a third row of seats without anchorage fitted. Although included in the same age category as other boosters, this seat is not as tall as a boosters with an adjustable head rest. Rear impact bars provide structural support and protection for the neck and a switchable sash guide helps correctly position the seatbelt. It also features a slide guard clip, which helps prevent a child from sliding off the seat and guides the lap part of the belt across the hips. Available to purchase from the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
Approximately 4 years to 10 years
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Britax Safe-n-Sound Kid Guard Booster SeatMember's price: $219 The Kid Guard is one of the tallest boosters on the market and has a very narrow base that allows for easy seatbelt buckle access. The seat has an adjustable headrest that can be extended as the child grows. The headrest has integrated seatbelt guides, so when it’s adjusted to just above the child’s shoulders, it provides an excellent seatbelt fit. The seat is attached to the vehicle with a top tether strap. It also features expandable lower side wings, an extendable seat base and a slide guard clip to prevent the child sliding under the seatbelt in a crash. Available to purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. Note: Before buying a booster with an extendable headrest, test it in your car to ensure you can achieve full extension. |
Extended harness seats (known as G-type seats)
Approximately 6 months to 8 years
These seats are forward facing only and, although rated from 6 months, children rarely meet the minimum height markers at this age. Children should be kept rearward-facing until at least 12 months of age, so we don't recommend using these seats until your child is at least a year old, at which time they should then meet the minimum height marker.
For more information, download our 'Shoulder height markers' fact sheet.
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Mother’s Choice Focus Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Members' price: $259 The Mother’s Choice Focus extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. Its five-point internal, one-handed adjustable headrest complemented with an automatic harness height adjustment. As your child grows, there's no need to rethread the harness. The Focus’ compact seat design features a 2 position recline for extra comfort and crotch adjustment allowing you to adjust the height of the crotch buckle as your child grows. Great for use when transporting children of different ages. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Britax Safe-n-Sound Maxi Guard Harnessed SeatMembers' price: $429 Maxi Guard is a Forward Facing Harnessed Seat with Active Head Restraint™ (AHR™) headrest. Suitable for growing children from approximately 12 months (must meet the entry marker) through to approximately 8 years old. The 6 point Hassle Free Harness™ keeps your most precious cargo securely restrained and safer for longer. Two recline positions for comfort. The easy adjust headrest can be height adjusted without uninstalling the seat. No need to rethread. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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InfaSecure Emerge Go Black Fleck Forward Facing Harnessed Car Seat
Members' price: $469 The InfaSecure extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. The Emerge’s Twist & Lift™ system allows one-handed adjustment of the headrest and harness from the front of the restraint & the harness buckle is height adjustable without removing the restraint from the vehicle. The Gradual Recline system is extremely easy to use, allowing unrestricted recline positions. The Emerge Go has a deep seating area that caters well for children with longer legs. Great for use when transporting children of different ages. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Maxi Cosi Tuva LX Forward Facing Harnessed Booster Seat
Members' price: $449 The Maxi Cosi Tuva extended harnessed car seat is suitable for children that meet the entry marker (around 12 months) through to approximately 8 years using the full inbuilt harness. Installation is simple and secure with the SMART Lock belt system, while the 9-position headrest and simultaneous harness adjustment allow for easy, on-the-go adaptability without needing to remove the seat. The Tuva LX includes premium features such as patented Air Protect side-impact technology and GCELL® torso protection for trusted safety. Comfort is enhanced with cool wicking fabrics, a two-position recline, and a premium insert, keeping your child cosy in any season. Additional Maxi-Cosi features like magnetic harness holders, an adjustable crotch buckle, and dual cup holders make every journey smoother for both you and your child. Great for use when transporting children of different ages. Available for purchase at the RAA Child Safety Centre. |
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Australian Standard
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