FREE STATEWIDE CAR SEAT FITTINGS & SAFETY CHECKS KICK OFF

The Andrews Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to provide Victorian families with free, expert child car seat fittings and safety checks to keep their little passengers safe.

Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos visited the Span Community House in Thornbury today to officially launch the new $4 million Safe Seats, Safe Kids program.

Kidsafe Victoria and Neighbourhood Houses Victoria will provide free car seat fittings and safety checks in every local government area across Victoria at various locations including neighbourhood houses and community centres.

At these events, professional fitters will inspect child car seats to make sure they’re installed and being used cor-rectly. Parents and carers will also be provided with information on how to check if their precious cargo is travelling safely.

Victoria is the first state to roll out a comprehensive statewide fitting and safety check program after it was revealed around 70 per cent of child car restraints are not fitted or used correctly – making injury up to seven times more likely.

Kidsafe Victoria data revealed the risk of life-threatening injuries in a car accident can be four to six times greater if a child is seated in a poorly installed restraint. On average, six children under the age of 13 are killed, and around 160 are seriously injured in vehicles on Victorian roads each year.

The program is part of the Labor Government’s $213.7 million package aimed at giving parents the support they need to give their kids the best start in life.

The Government is also building new parenting centres, funding more maternal and child health nurses and provid-ing round-the-clock specialist sleep and settling advice.

Parents and carers can register their interest to attend a child car seat safety check session at kidsafe-vic.com.au/road-safety/free-child-car-restraint-checking-program/

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos

“The safety of their child is a parent’s greatest responsibility and I’m proud that this program, which we promised during the election, is now being delivered.” “The data tells us that kids are far more likely to be injured if they’re in a poorly-installed restraint. That’s why it’s crucial they are in seats that are checked by the experts.” “I urge all parents and carers to take advantage of this landmark program – it will help keep kids safe and give them the important peace of mind that their children are properly secured.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Northcote Kat Theophanous

“Every parent wants peace of mind knowing their child is safe on car trips. This program gives parents free access to experts - so families can ride easy.”