Hi! We are going on a family holiday next month and are staying in a hotel that has specified that they will provide a cot for my daughter who will be 13 months. I’ve been thinking about the sleeping arrangements and I have a couple of questions. Are there rules about how often Australian hotels have to replace cot mattresses for safety (so that they are not overly soft etc)? Also, at what age does bed sharing become safe? For example if she is struggling to sleep in the new environment (she’s never slept in a cot that isn’t her own) is it safe to bring her into the bed with us? Thanks!

I am not aware as to regulations &/or compliance factors for hotels in terms of bedding equipment. Best to check with the hotel as to what type of cot & if it meets the Mandatory Australian standards (AS/NZS 2172)
The hotel may provide a portacot for your baby.. Again ensure it meets Mandatory Australian standards (AS/NZS 2195)
If using a portacot check that it is in good condition - no tears in the mesh, & that locking mechanisms in cot sides are working well. Do not add any other mattress or padding to the existing mattress. Check weight limit for each portacot.
https://rednose.org.au/article/portable-cots
Parents will often take their own portable cot with them when they travel.

SUDI (SIDS & fatal sleeping accidents) does not occur after 12 months by definition. However, there is still the risk of sleep accidents in any age group.

Many parents report that they don’t sleep well when a baby/toddler is in bed with them.