Quick answer
In Victoria and NSW, chauffeur-driven hire cars and rideshare vehicles must follow the same child restraint rules as private cars, so children under seven need an approved, correctly fitted seat. Taxis have exemptions in most states, and Queensland also exempts booked hire vehicles. Whatever the exemption, a properly fitted child restraint is the safest option, so book one in advance.
Parents travelling from the airport or across town often ask whether their child needs a car seat in a taxi, an Uber or a chauffeur car. The answer depends on the state and the type of vehicle. This guide summarises the rules in the four states we operate in, then explains how to make sure the right seat is waiting for you.
What are the child restraint rules in a private car?
Australia-wide road rules set the baseline for private cars. Children must use an approved child restraint that suits their age and size until they are seven, and an adult seatbelt or booster after that until they fit the belt properly.
| Child's age | Required restraint |
|---|---|
| Under 6 months | Rear-facing approved child restraint |
| 6 months to under 4 years | Rear-facing or forward-facing restraint with an inbuilt harness |
| 4 years to under 7 years | Forward-facing restraint with harness, or a booster seat with a seatbelt |
| 7 years and over | Booster seat or adult seatbelt, depending on size |
Do chauffeur cars, taxis and Uber have to follow these rules?
| State | Chauffeur hire cars | Rideshare | Taxis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Victoria | Same as private cars | Same as private cars | Exempt; children under 1 may be held by an adult in the back seat |
| New South Wales | Same as private cars | Same as private cars | Children under 1 need a restraint; over 1 may use a seatbelt |
| Queensland | Exempt if no suitable restraint is available | Exempt | Exempt |
| Western Australia | Check with the Department of Transport WA | Check with the Department of Transport WA | Check with the Department of Transport WA |
In Victoria, Transport Victoria treats rideshare and hire cars like private cars, while taxi drivers do not have to provide child restraints. In NSW, the Point to Point Transport Commissioner applies private-car rules to hire and rideshare vehicles, with a relaxed regime for taxis. Queensland's road rules exempt taxis, limousines and booked hire vehicles when no suitable restraint is available, provided the child does not sit in the front row. We have not been able to confirm the current WA position from an official source, so check with the Department of Transport WA before you travel.
Is it safe to travel without a child seat when it's legal?
An exemption only means a driver will not be fined. It does not make an unrestrained or poorly restrained child any safer in a crash. Road safety authorities in every state recommend using an approved restraint whenever one is available, which is why booking ahead matters.
How do I book a chauffeur with a child seat?
- Tell us each child's age (and weight, if you know it) when you request a quote.
- We match each child to a baby capsule, child seat or booster that meets Australian standards.
- The seat is fitted before pickup, so you are not adjusting straps in the arrivals lane.
- Bring your own seat if you prefer — tell us when booking so we can allow room for it.
Australian Chauffeurs Group fits restraints on request for any booking in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia, including airport transfers, family holidays and wedding days.