What Is an RSA Certificate and Why Do You Need One?

Responsible Service of Alcohol: the must-have for hospitality work

The RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) is a short certification course that teaches you how to serve alcohol legally and safely in Australia.

It’s required by law for anyone working in venues where alcohol is served — including bars, clubs, pubs, bottle shops, events, and even cafes with a liquor licence.

Whether you're pouring beers, clearing glasses, or checking IDs at the door, you need a valid RSA for the state you're working in.

Most employers won’t even shortlist applicants without it.

It's faster and cheaper than most people realise

Unlike other courses, getting your RSA doesn’t take days or weeks.

In most states, you can complete it online in under a day — sometimes in just a few hours.

It usually costs between $40–$60, and once certified, you’re legal and job-ready immediately.

Obtaining an RSA certificate is one of the quickest ways to become instantly employable — especially if you're just starting out, between jobs, studying, or travelling.

What Jobs Can You Get With an RSA Certificate?

It’s not just bartending — here’s where your RSA can take you

When people think of an RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol), they usually picture bartenders pulling beers or waiting staff serving wine at a local pub.

And yes — those jobs are absolutely on the list.

But an RSA opens far more doors than most people realise, including well-paid roles in security, events, and even remote mining sites.

Below are some of the most common — and some unexpected — entry-level jobs you can apply for once you’ve completed your RSA training.

Job Title	Typical Setting	RSA Required?	Good for Beginners?
Bar Attendant	Pubs, clubs, bars	Yes
Waitstaff	Restaurants, hotels, functions	Often
Gaming Attendant	Clubs, RSLs, casinos	Yes
Security Guard (Licensed Venues)	Nightclubs, festivals, RSLs	Yes (with security licence)
Camp All-Rounder	Mining & FIFO sites	Yes (if alcohol is served)
Event Staff	Festivals, expos, sports grounds	Yes
Cruise Ship Hospitality	Domestic cruises & ferries	Yes (or international equivalent)
Hotel Reception / Concierge	Hotels with minibars or service	Sometimes

Why the RSA Matters

Holding an RSA isn’t just about legal compliance — it tells employers you understand your responsibilities when it comes to alcohol safety.

Whether you’re pouring drinks, checking IDs, or just handing out room service, your RSA is often the first thing they’ll ask about.

The Bottom Line

In 2025, hospitality in Australia is more flexible than ever.

Whether you’re after casual bar work, looking to get your foot in the security industry, or aiming for FIFO-level pay in a remote mining camp, an RSA certificate is the ticket that gets you through the first door.

Where to Find RSA Jobs in Australia (and How to Stand Out)

Here’s the truth: some of the best RSA jobs often don’t make it to Seek or Indeed.

Many are filled through word of mouth, walk-ins, or Facebook groups long before they’re officially posted on job-seeker platforms.

That’s why if you want to land work quickly — especially without much experience — it’s all about being proactive, visible, and easy to hire on the spot.

1. Understand How RSA Hiring Really Works

Most venues — pubs, clubs, events, even mine site camps — hire casual staff fast.

They don’t run lengthy recruitment processes.

Often it’s:

• Manager needs someone ASAP
• They text a mate or post in a hospitality Facebook group
• Whoever responds first (and sounds reliable) gets the shift

That’s your edge: be ready, be reachable, and act fast.

2. Go Where the Jobs Actually Are

Here’s where to focus — in order of how fast people usually get hired:

• Facebook Groups: Search your city + “hospitality jobs” or “bar work”. Join groups like “Hospitality Jobs Sydney”, “Brisbane Bar Staff”, or “FIFO Hospitality Australia”. Turn on keyword alerts for “RSA”, “immediate start”, and “camp all rounder”.
  
  
• Walk-ins: Especially effective at local pubs, RSLs, smaller clubs, and regional venues. Dress neat, bring your RSA and a simple resume, and ask for the manager.
  
  
• Temp Agencies: Sign up with Pinnacle People, Sidekicker, Spotless, or Backpacker Job Board (yes, even locals use it). These platforms handle bar, event, and festival work — ideal if you're chasing flexible hours or quick cash.
  
  
• Seek & Indeed: Still useful — but filter for casual or no experience and search suburb-by-suburb. Use terms like “RSA”, “bartender”, “club attendant”, "no-experience", "entry-level", and “licensed venue”.
  
  

3. Don’t Wait — Introduce Yourself First

Hospitality is fast-paced — many shifts get filled by whoever puts their hand up first.

That’s why sending quick intros (instead of long formal applications) often works better.

Try this for a quick message: "Hi, I’ve got my RSA certificate and I’m available nights/weekends. I'm based in [your suburb], passionate about hospitality, and willing to learn. Would love the opportunity to prove myself. Happy to start ASAP — please let me know if you’re short on staff. Thanks!"

Attach a PDF resume with your email or message, highlight your RSA certificate, and be clear about your availability.

4. Bonus Tip: Ask for Trial Shifts

If you’re green but keen, offering to do a trial (paid or unpaid — you choose) can tip the scales.

Many smaller venues will give you a go if you’re confident, punctual, and friendly.

Most of these smaller venues don’t even advertise — they either fill a position through word-of-mouth or just wait for someone to walk in and ask.

It’s not about experience — it’s about being easy to work with and ready to jump in.

How to Find RSA Jobs with Networking (Even If You Don’t Know Anyone)

Think networking is just for high-power executives or people with big connections?

Think again.

In the hospitality industry, who you know can often open doors faster than online applications — you just need the right approach.

Get Visible in Your Local Scene

Visit nearby pubs, clubs, and cafes during quieter hours — not to hang out, but to introduce yourself in person.

Dress smart, as a tidy appearance is important for most customer-facing roles in hospitality. 

Bring a simple one-page resume highlighting your RSA qualification, availability, and any relevant skills like customer service.

Ask the manager or supervisor if they’re hiring soon or if they know someone who is.

Be personable, keep your walk-in introduction brief, and always be professional.

This face-to-face approach is extremely effective and shows you’re serious.

Tap Into Temp Agencies That Specialise in Hospitality

Many venues rely on labour hire companies for casual and entry-level staff.

Register with agencies that specialise in hospitality, upload your RSA and any other relevant certifications, and be clear about the roles you want and when you’re available.

Some reputable Australian agencies to check out:

• Zenith Hospitality Staffing Solutions – QLD-based agency placing chefs, waitstaff, and bartenders.
• Hospoworld – National coverage with hospitality jobs across all experience levels.
• ALH Group Careers – While technically not an agency, ALH operates over 300 licensed venues and regularly hires RSA-qualified staff directly.
• Hospo Labour Hire – VIC-based agency focusing on kitchen and front-of-house positions.

Make sure you follow up regularly — as persistence counts.

Use Online Communities Strategically

Join local Facebook groups and forums where hospitality jobs are posted daily.

Set alerts for terms like “RSA casual”, "RSA job", "bartender", “entry-level”, "no experience", “bar work”, etc.

But don’t just lurk — engage.

Ask questions, offer to help others, and share your availability.

This builds trust within the group and makes you more memorable.

Consider Related Roles and Side Industries

While pubs and clubs are obvious targets, remember there are many places that need RSA holders.

Think corporate events, sports venues, festivals, and even mining camps with hospitality roles.

Expanding your search beyond the usual spots highly increases your chances.

Be Ready to Jump In

Opportunities in hospitality can come up last minute.

Keep your RSA details and resume handy, be flexible with shifts, and respond quickly when a job call comes through.

The more reliable and responsive you are, the faster you’ll build a solid reputation in the industry and expand your network.

Creating a Winning Resume and Cover Letter With No Experience

Breaking into hospitality with no experience can feel daunting, but a well-crafted resume and cover letter tailored to your RSA qualification will get you noticed by employers.

Keep It Simple and Relevant

Focus on your RSA certification, your availability, and transferable skills like customer service, communication, and teamwork.

These are all qualities that show employers you’re reliable and suitable for the job.

Structure Your Resume for Maximum Impact

• Contact Details: Full name, phone number, and a professional email address.
• Objective Statement: A concise intro stating your goal to start a hospitality role and how your RSA supports this.
• Certifications: Highlight your RSA and any other relevant training (e.g., Responsible Gambling, Food Safety).
• Skills: Customer service, communication, teamwork, punctuality, and willingness to learn.
• Work History: Include any casual, volunteer, or part-time roles that demonstrate responsibility—even if outside hospitality.
• Availability: Clearly state when you can work, including nights and weekends.
  
  

Write a Tailored Cover Letter That Stands Out

Always customise this part to match the specific requirements for each job.

Keep it short and direct.

Explain your enthusiasm for hospitality work, mention your RSA, and highlight your flexibility with shifts.

End with a polite request for an interview or opportunity to prove yourself on the job.

Use AI as a Writing Tool — But Make It Your Own

If you’re stuck on how to start or what to say, AI tools can help draft your resume or cover letter quickly.

Just make sure to customise the output by adding your own experiences, style, and voice.

Employers want to see the real you — not a generic, robotic response. Just keep it professional.

Bonus Tips

• Save your resume and cover letter as PDFs to keep formatting intact.
• Have a digital copy of your RSA certificate ready to upload or present at interviews.
• Make sure your voicemail sounds professional and check it daily — employers will often call first.
• Proofread carefully to avoid any spelling or grammatical mistakes that can undermine your application.

Pro Tips to Boost Your Chances of Getting an RSA Job Fast

Stack Your Certifications

While the RSA is the must-have to serve alcohol, adding your Responsible Conduct of Gambling certificate (RCG) can open the door to more jobs in pubs, clubs, and casinos with pokies.

You don’t need both to start working in hospo, but it gives you a wider range of options and makes your resume stand out instantly.

Note: In most of Australia, this is called RSG (Responsible Service of Gambling), but in New South Wales it's known as RCG (Responsible Conduct of Gambling). They're essentially the same thing—just different names depending on the state.

Apply Midweek — Before the Weekend Rush

Venues often review job applications and plan their rosters midweek.

Monday to Wednesday mornings are the sweet spot — wait too long and your application might get buried under the Friday and weekend rush hours.

Dress the Part From Day One

Many bars, clubs, and event venues have a simple dress code: black pants, black collared shirt, closed black shoes.

Invest in a basic, professional-looking outfit now, so if you get a trial shift tomorrow, you’re ready to walk in and start.

Follow Up in Person (When It Makes Sense)

For small, local venues — especially cafés and bars — a quick follow-up visit after submitting an online application can work in your favour.

Bring a printed resume and your RSA certificate, and ask for the manager.

Be polite, brief, and clear about your availability.

Not every venue hires this way, but some do — especially when they need someone immediately.

You won’t know unless you show up.

What to Expect and What You Should Do in Your First RSA Job

Show Up Early and Ready

Try to  arrive at least 15-20 minutes early.

It shows professionalism and gives you time to settle in, meet the team, and get a quick rundown of your role for the day.

Learn the Basics Fast

• POS (Point-of-Sale) machines: Don’t stress if you’ve never used one — ask for a quick demo and you’ll pick it up quickly.
• Handling drinks: Serve from the base of the glass, never across a customer’s body, and check for ID if they look under 25.
• Glassware: Keep it polished, stack properly, and never mix clean and dirty glasses.
  
  

Understand Venue Etiquette

• Who to talk to: Your direct supervisor (often called the duty manager or shift lead).
• When to ask for help: Always better to ask than to guess — especially if it’s safety-related or involves a customer complaint.
• Getting more shifts: Be reliable, listen, and ask at the end of your shift if they need help again this week.
  
  

Put Your RSA Into Practice

 Your RSA isn’t just a piece of paper — it’s active law.

That means knowing how to:

• Politely refuse service to someone who’s too intoxicated
• Check ID (and recognise fake ones)
• Monitor consumption and look out for signs of intoxication

If you’re unsure, ask your manager or a senior staff member.

They’ll respect you more for speaking up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to get my RSA certificate?

 Most people can complete an RSA course online in about 4–6 hours. Once you pass, your interim certificate is issued immediately, and you’ll usually receive the official version from the state regulator within a few business days (or up to 4 weeks in NSW).

2. Can I start applying for jobs before I get the official RSA card?

 Yes — many venues accept the interim RSA certificate (issued upon course completion) as proof you’re qualified. Just make sure you're applying in the right state and following their specific RSA rules.

3. What’s the difference between RCG and RSG?

They’re the same course with different names depending on the state. In NSW, it’s called RCG (Responsible Conduct of Gambling). In most other states, it’s RSG (Responsible Service of Gambling). Both are designed to help you work in venues with pokies or gaming.

4. Do I need hospitality experience to get hired?

 Not at all. Many venues are open to training enthusiastic newcomers. A good attitude, flexible availability, and having your RSA (and ideally RCG/RSG) are usually enough to land your first gig.

5. Can I work hospitality shifts while studying or working another job?

 Absolutely. Hospitality offers flexible hours, including nights and weekends, making it a great side hustle for students or anyone needing extra income. Just be honest about your availability when applying.

6. Is it worth paying extra for a “bundle” RSA + RCG course?

 If you know you want to work in pubs or clubs with gaming machines, a bundle can save time and money. But don’t feel pressured — you can always add RCG/RSG later once you know what kind of venues you want to work in.

7. What should I do if I feel nervous before my first shift?

 It’s completely normal. Most venues will give you a quick run-through of your duties when you arrive. Show up early, ask questions, and observe how others work. Don’t overthink it — confidence comes fast after a shift or two.

8. Can AI really help me write a resume or cover letter?

 Yes — tools like ChatGPT can help you write great drafts fast. Just be sure to edit the output so it sounds like you and reflects your actual experience and tone. Employers can usually spot when something feels generic or written entirely by AI.

Ready to Get Started?

Hospitality is one of the few industries where it’s still possible to go from zero experience to a well-paid job almost immediately.

The hours are flexible, the skills you most likely already have are transferable, and there’s room to move up or move around — fast.

If you haven’t already, start with getting your RSA certificate.

It’s quick, affordable, and your entry-ticket to an entire industry full of fun, exciting, and well-paid jobs.

Plenty of others have manged to secure a "no-exeprience needed" RSA job that eventually leads toward a fulfilling long-term career in the hospitality industry.

You can too. 

Click the link below to learn more about our government-approved RSA course that can be completed entirely online and at your own pace.