Australia takes child safety in vehicles seriously, and Western Australia is no exception. If you are arriving at Perth Airport with children, the transport decision matters more than in many other countries.
Child seat laws in Western Australia
Western Australian law requires children under 6 months to be in a rear-facing restraint, children 6 months to 4 years in a rear-facing or forward-facing restraint, and children 4 to 7 years in a forward-facing restraint or booster seat. Children under 4 cannot travel in the front seat of a vehicle with two or more rows.
Taxis have limited exemptions — children over 1 may travel without a restraint in a taxi if one is not available. But this is a safety compromise, not a recommendation. Rideshare vehicles have the same exemption, though many parents are uncomfortable with it.
Your options
The safest approach is to either bring your own car seat (airlines let you check them free on most carriers) or book a private transfer with a child seat requested in advance. When booking, provide the child's age and weight so the correct restraint type is supplied. Confirm availability before your trip — not all providers stock infant capsules, for example.
The airport train does not require child seats and is a reasonable option for families with older children who do not need restraints. The platform is accessible, and the ride to the CBD is only 18 minutes.
Customs and immigration with kids
Australian customs is thorough, and it takes longer with children. Biosecurity screening may involve inspecting items in your bags — snacks, wooden toys, anything organic. Declare everything you are unsure about. Budget 45 to 60 minutes from landing to exiting the terminal when traveling with a family.
Terminal navigation
Perth Airport terminals are modern and accessible. Strollers move easily through the building. Lifts are available for level changes. The walk from baggage claim to the taxi rank or transfer pickup is short at all terminals.
If you need to move between T1/T2 and T3/T4 (they are not connected), the free inter-terminal bus is accessible with strollers and luggage, though it adds time.
Best option for families
A pre-booked private transfer with a child seat arranged in advance is the most practical choice. It eliminates the car seat dilemma, the driver is at your terminal when you emerge, and you can specify the right vehicle size for your family and luggage. After a long international flight — Perth receives many from Asia and the Middle East — this is worth the cost.
For families with older children (7+) traveling light, the airport train is excellent value. It is fast, comfortable, and avoids road traffic entirely.
Practical tips
Have your accommodation address, transfer booking details, and driver contact saved offline. Australian border processing can be slow and unpredictable — let your transfer provider know your flight details so they can track your arrival. Pack snacks and water for the children; the terminal has limited food options after late-night arrivals. And remember that Perth is in the AWST timezone — jet lag hits hard on families arriving from Europe or the Americas.