Blogs

Myth: In Victoria, a medical certificate is not required when a child is travelling in a car seat using an add-on chest cross strap (such as the Houdini Stop).

Fact: The Victorian Road Safety Road Rules 2017 state that a medical certificate is required and must be carried in the vehicle in which the child is travelling. This is because using a chest cross strap with a car seat modifies the restraint.

Check out our sample medical referral letters developed for each State and Territory in Australia.

Myth: You can only use Australian standard car seats for children with disabilities.

Fact: False. You can use Australian standard car seats as well as vehicle restraints specifically designed for the needs of children with disabilities, commonly known as special purpose car seats.

The Australian standard does not provide safety and performance requirements for special purpose car seats. These types of car seats come from overseas and comply with an overseas standard or regulation.

In selecting an appropriate vehicle restraint type, allied health professionals are guided by their clinical assessment of the child’s vehicle seating needs in the context of their disability, family situation and vehicle/s they travel in.

More information about the range of vehicle restraint options suitable for children with disabilities in Australia is available here.

Myth: Seatbelt buckle covers comply with Australian standards.

Fact: Seatbelt buckle covers do not comply with Australian standards. MACA is concerned that some buckle cover manufacturers publish misleading information which may suggest compliance with Australian standards. Even though these AT devices are often needed to reduce road safety risks, there's a lack of research and knowledge about their safety. features and appropriate use.