An RAC survey has revealed confusion among parents, caregivers, and grandparents regarding child car seat safety, highlighting the need for clearer guidance and education on correct restraint use.
The survey, which gathered responses from over 900 people responsible for children under 13 and who had used a child car restraint in the last five years, found almost one in four respondents admitted to being unfamiliar with current child restraint laws.
This was reflected in some respondents having transitioned their child to an adult seat and seatbelt before it is legally permitted.
Even those complying with the law were not following best practices, with many expressing a lack of awareness around the 5-step test, a crucial tool in determining whether a child is ready to move to an adult seat and seatbelt.
RAC Senior Manager Communications, Rhys Heron, said confusion over child restraint rules and best practice underscores the need for more education.
“Many families are unaware of the key indicators for when a child is ready to move seats, and this puts children at unnecessary risk,” Mr Heron said.
“Seventy two per cent of respondents whose children had already transitioned to an adult seat had never heard of the 5-step test.”
“Providing parents and caregivers with clear, easy-to-understand guidance—particularly on the 5-step test—will help ensure children stay in appropriate restraints for as long as needed to keep them safe.”
More than half of survey respondents supported making use of a child restraint such as a booster seat mandatory for all children under 145cm, aligning with current best practices that prioritise a child’s height over age alone.
“Every child deserves the best possible protection while traveling, and it’s crucial families have the right information to make informed decisions,” Mr Heron said.
“This survey makes it clear that more needs to be done to educate families about child car seat safety.
By improving awareness, promoting the 5-step test, and ensuring parents have access to professional fitting services and resources, we can significantly reduce the risks to children on our roads.”
Helpful resources:
- Find out more about the 5-step test
- RAC: Child car seat rear facing
- Kidsafe WA: Child car restraints guidelines
ENDS
Media contact: Lauren Cherry, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
