Commonly there are many myths and challenges that the community tends to hang on to – and this is one of those mammoth q’s that’s really easy to answer.

General source of myth: Perpetuated by hearsay from mums groups and grandparents, right through to maternal health nurses.  No area is immune from this.

Short Answer:

In relation to vehicle modification – No, not everyone can perform vehicle modifications in relation to child safety seat use.  There may be a requirement in your state, and we would recommend you check with your local state authority for the activities you require.  For example, in Victoria you would be required to get an Engineers Certificate to add another anchor point.

General Public – Yes, imperatively anyone can install their own child safety seat – and they should at least have an understanding on how to safety check it prior to travel every single time it gets used.

Untrained, non accredited businesses – Yes anyone can operate a business installation child safety seats, believe it or not.  There is no national rule or law that indicated anyone is required by law or regulation to have been trained in any way to fit/service/assess/give advice in regards to a child safety seat.  Obviously there are number of incredibly imperative reasons why a business shouldn’t engage in this activity, not limited to;

• The incredible importance that your advice effects an individuals whole life, and future of their family for generations
• Even a barista undergoes training, and we agree – coffee is important – but the future of a child is incredibly more important and should be treated as much more valuable
• Insurance, and the risks they expose themselves to by simply not taking their responsibility seriously enough to at least undergo training – and in our opinion they clearly aren’t committed to pursuing excellence in this industry if they do not associate themselves with an organisation that can provide ongoing hands on assistance and networking.
• In some cases, organisations such as childcare groups or DHHS may make mention of specific networks (Such as ACRI, RACV, RMS) for their staff or educators to abide by in their operational policies.  In such situations there may be a case for future legal argument.

Related information: Can an ACRI member be listed as an RMS or other states road agency authorised fitter

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