Modified car seats

Modifying Australian standard car seats is not recommended. However there are situations where there may be no other option (e.g., hip spica transport).

There is new and emerging research investigating the safety impacts of modifying Australian standard car seats. This research is explored in MACA's online training course for allied health professionals.

There are legal requirements to comply with in each state and territory if a child is travelling in a modified Australian standard car seat.

You can find out about the rules in each state and territory here.

Common accessories that parents self-prescribe and use with Australian standard car seats are chest-cross straps and buckle covers, as these type of devices can be easily purchased.

Some manufacturers claim their product complies with Australian standards, however there are no chest-cross straps or buckle covers certified to the Australian accessory standard (AS 8005).

Therefore you should review the child’s transport needs, using tools such as The MACA Guide and ensure the family is complying with road rules.

MACA's online training provides guidance for allied health professionals when assessing and prescribing for children's motor vehicle transport needs.

The training content includes information and guidance about modifying car seats.

Training participants also receive a free copy of the MACA Guide, a best practice resource to support assessing and prescribing for children's motor vehicle transport needs.