In Australia, babies under six months must travel in an approved rearward-facing restraint. From six months to four years, the legal options may include rearward- or forward-facing use depending on the child and restraint, but reaching six months does not automatically mean a child should be turned. 

Use size and markers, not birthdays alone 

Australian restraints use shoulder-height markers to help determine suitability and transitions. Follow the specific product instructions and do not move a child to the next mode simply because they have reached a certain age if they still fit the current safer stage. 

Why families stay rearward facing longer 

Rearward-facing restraints support the child differently during a crash. Australian child-safety guidance recommends keeping children rearward facing for as long as they fit within the restraint’s permitted limits. 

What about long legs? 

Bent or crossed legs do not by themselves mean a child must turn forward. The restraint’s shoulder markers and instructions determine fit. If comfort or positioning is a concern, ask the manufacturer or a qualified fitter to review the set-up. 

Before changing modes 

Read the conversion instructions, check the new harness position and make sure the tether and installation are configured for forward-facing use. A professional check can provide confidence after the change. 

Using Pilot through the transition 

Pilot converts from rearward- to forward-facing use for the appropriate stage. Follow its shoulder markers and instructions rather than making the change based on age alone. Keep the child rearward facing while they still fit and the product directions allow.