Tess - I have a 3yo who is 19kg and over 105cm tall. I shopped around and have ended up with a Vario Kid Max by Secure used with a Protecta Harness (it is an adjustable H harness) - this combo scored highest in recent safety testing (RACV/NRMA - results/report available on Choice website for free).
I was completely put off as this seat was considerably cheaper than main competitor (well under $180 including harness) - but I am very happy with it. I was concerned that the lack of a middle clip (as on a 5 point harness) would allow her to slip under the belt and out of the seat but it is simply not possible.
One thing I had not realised until I started reading was that the multiple use seats (ie convertable ->booster) often are safer in one form not necessarily both and that the 5 point harness often needs to be replaced with a 5 point harness in some of these seats when the child hits 18kg anyway.
You can get great deals on these seats at the moment - I was really lucky and got 2 for under $140. Amazing! Watch out for the big baby stores as they seemed quite keen to push one brand only....
Good luck on your hunt - I hope this info helps you BUT it is only my experience!
I've just got Liv a Safe and Sound Maxi Rider AHR. It has a fully convertable harness which can take a baby from 8kg to 26kg. The AHR is "Active Head Restraint" which is for side impact head protection incase of an accident and it is adjustable in height so they can be in the seat for longer. It exceeds safety recommendations. On a side note it's so cute with it's little arm rests and cup holders. Liv loves it and no-one is allowed to put her arm rests up or down except her. She is so protective. Have a shop around darl and research what works for your DD.
There are the foam booster seats available but they have to be over 14kg to use these.
How much are the SS Maxi Rider's? DS is 14 months old and about 11kgs and I wondered what the next seat would be for him. What is the minimum weight requirement? TIA!
Sequoia - Mazi riders ~$300 and Maxi Rider AHR (has adjustable head rest) $350. The 5 point harness needs to be replaced with the Protecta Harness ($50-$70 depending on sales etc) when your child is 18kg. From memory I think there recommended weights 9kg-26kg. Apparently there are new seats coming (or current seats recommendations) upgraded to 36kg to cover new legistation in regards to car seats.
I have just brought my DD her S&S Maxi Rider AHR from Baby Gallery in Clayton and it was $359. It can take weights 8kg to 26kg. It has the full 5 point harness same as her convertible seat and it can be converted to take just a seatbealt when she is older. She loves her new seat.
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That's what I'd recommend
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