Families in Melbourne’s west took an important step toward safer travel last week, with dozens attending a free child car seat checking event at Werribee Open Range Zoo.
Delivered in partnership between Transurban and Kidsafe, the event gave local parents and carers access to expert advice and hands-on support to ensure their children’s car seats were correctly installed and adjusted.
For many families, it was a timely reminder that while installing a car seat may seem straightforward, it is often more complex than expected.
Recent research from Transurban shows that 61 per cent of parents install car seats themselves – and data from Kidsafe reveals that only 6 per cent of seats are installed and used correctly.
During the Werribee session, accredited fitters checked as many as 80 seats and walked families through common issues, with many requiring adjustments or full installation.
According to Kidsafe’s latest figures, 41 per cent of seats need to be completely reinstalled due to major errors, while a further 26 per cent require significant adjustments.
The consequences can be serious. Road trauma remains the leading cause of death for children under 15 in Australia. However, studies show that a correctly fitted and appropriate car seat can reduce the risk of injury in a crash by up to 70 per cent.
Transurban Head of Safety Liz Waller said the partnership with Kidsafe is focused on making expert support more accessible to families.
“We know parents want to do the right thing and car seat guidelines can be complex,” Ms Waller said.
“By funding these checks, we are removing a barrier and providing parents with the peace of mind that their most vulnerable passengers are secure. It only takes 15 minutes, and it could save a life.”
Kidsafe educators at the event also demonstrated some of the most common installation mistakes, including loose fittings, incorrect harness positioning and using seats that are not suited to a child’s age or size.
The Werribee event forms part of a broader national effort, with Kidsafe on track to check more than 10,000 car seats across Australia in 2026 through its partnership with Transurban.
Families who missed out are encouraged to keep an eye out for future free checking events across Victoria. To book a free car seat safety check or find upcoming sessions, visit transurban.com/checkmyride.
