How to fit an ISOFIX car seat

Car seat child restraints are traditionally installed with a seatbelt and top tether attachment to stabilise the restraint. ISOFIX car seats provide parents with another option for how child restraints can be fitted to a car.

The Australian standard for child restraints now allows ISOFIX compatible restraints to be used in Australia however it remains illegal to use overseas models in Australia. ISOFIX was first introduced to Europe in 1997 and instead of using a seatbelt to restrain the seat, ISOFIX uses special lower anchorages on the restraint that attach to fixed points in the car.

Approved seats can be identified by the Australian standard label. Child restraints meeting these standards still require a top tether to be used. Cars equipped with ISOFIX attachments can be identified by tags or labelled covers in the rear seat.

An ISOFIX compatible restraint can also be used in a car that’s not ISOFIX equipped. ISOFIX compatible child restraints can also be fitted like traditional child restraints by guiding the seatbelt through the back of the restraint and by fitting a top tether to an anchor point at the back of the restraint.

Always read manufacturer’s instructions for specific installation information. Also check the vehicle manual for help on locating the anchor points in your car.

The type of child restraint you will use will depend on the age and size of the child. A rearward facing restraint should be used for as long as the child fits within the restraint. A forward facing restraint is the next move for children who have outgrown their rearward facing restraint and should be used until a child is at least 4 years old of age but can be used until they outgrow it.

Following this is the booster seat that suits children until 8-10 years of age. If your child is ready to move from a booster seat to a traditional lap/sash seatbelt, there are a few things to consider.

The child should be at least 145cm tall, sit with their back against the seat, and knees bent over the seat edge. The sash should go over the middle part of the shoulder while the lap belt should sit low across the hips. The child should also be able to sit comfortably in this position for the entire trip.