Getting Your RSA Certificate in Australia

If you want to work in a bar, pub, club, restaurant, or bottle shop in Australia, you need an RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) Certificate

It’s a legal requirement. No RSA, no job serving alcohol — it’s that simple.

This applies whether you’re:

• Looking for your first hospitality job
• Between jobs and need quick work
• A student or backpacker on a visa
• Already in hospitality but need a refresher

Every state has different rules about RSA training. Some allow online courses, while others require in-person training.

If you don’t get the right RSA certificate for the state you’re working in, it won’t be valid.

What This Guide Covers

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting your RSA cert in 2025, including:

• RSA requirements for each state and territory
• Online vs. in-person training options
• How long the course takes and what it costs
• What to expect in the training
• How to get certified as quickly as possible

If you need an RSA certificate for work, this guide will help you find the right course and avoid mistakes that could slow you down.

Who Needs an RSA Certificate?

An RSA certificate is mandatory for anyone serving, selling, or supplying alcohol in Australia.

Whether you’re looking for your first hospitality job or switching careers, getting certified is a legal requirement in every state and territory.

Common Jobs That Require an RSA Cert

• Bartenders and Waitstaff – Anyone serving alcohol in bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants.
• Bottle Shop and Liquor Store Staff – Selling takeaway alcohol also requires RSA training.
• Event and Festival Workers – Serving alcohol at concerts, sporting events, or private functions.
  
  
  

Where Can You Get an RSA Certificate in Australia?


To work in a job that involves serving alcohol, you must complete an RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) course through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

Every state and territory has its own regulations, but in most cases, you can complete your RSA certificate online.

Here’s a quick breakdown of RSA certificate requirements across Australia:



RSA Certificate Requirements by State

State/Territory	Can You Do It Online?	Expiry/Renewal	Regulator
NSW	Yes	Expires every 5 years	Liquor & Gaming NSW
VIC	Yes	No expiry (Refresher every 3 years recommended)	Liquor Control Victoria (LCV)
QLD	Yes	No expiry	Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR)
WA	Yes	No expiry	Dept. of Local Govt, Sport & Cultural Industries
SA	Yes	Recommended refresher every 3-5 years	Consumer and Business Services (CBS)
TAS	Yes	No expiry	Department of Treasury and Finance
ACT	Yes	Expires every 3 years	Access Canberra
NT	Yes	No expiry	Northern Territory Racing, Gaming and Licensing



Important: Some states may have extra steps after completing the RSA course, like registering your certificate or completing a refresher course after a few years. Always check with the official regulator for your state before enrolling.



How to Get an RSA Certificate


Getting your RSA certificate is a straightforward process, but the exact steps depend on the state or territory where you plan to work.

Here’s what you need to do:



1. Choose an Approved Training Provider


You must complete your RSA course through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) approved by the relevant state regulator. Be cautious of unaccredited providers offering cheap courses that may not be recognised.



2. Decide Between Online or In-Person Training


Most states allow you to complete your RSA training online, but some have specific requirements:

• NSW: Must be completed through an approved online provider with an extra ID verification process.
• VIC: Online courses are accepted, but additional in-person training may be required.
• QLD, WA, SA, TAS, NT, ACT: Fully online RSA training is accepted.
  
  

3. Complete the RSA Course


The RSA course covers essential topics, including:

• Legal responsibilities for serving alcohol
• Recognising intoxication and handling difficult customers
• Minimising harm from alcohol consumption
• Understanding state-specific liquor laws


Courses typically take 4 to 6 hours to complete, though some students finish sooner.



4. Pass the Assessment


You’ll need to complete quizzes or practical assessments to demonstrate your understanding. Some states may require additional verification, like video assessments or ID checks.



5. Receive Your RSA Certificate


After passing, you’ll receive your RSA certificate. In some states, you may need to register it with the local liquor authority before you can start working.

Check your state's specific requirements before enrolling to ensure your RSA is valid where you intend to work.

How Long Does an RSA Certificate Take?

The time required to complete an RSA course depends on the training provider, your learning pace, and the state requirements.

Most students finish the course in a single session, but some factors can affect completion time.

Typical Course Duration

• Online RSA: Usually takes 4 to 6 hours, but you can complete it at your own pace.
• In-Person RSA: Typically a one-day course (4 to 6 hours) at a registered training centre.
  
  

Factors That Affect Completion Time

• State Requirements: Some states have additional steps, such as identity verification or mandatory video assessments.
• Learning Speed: Self-paced online courses allow you to complete the RSA faster if you already understand the material.
• Assessment Process: Some courses require quizzes, case studies, or interactive components, which may take longer to complete.
  
  

How Soon Can You Start Working?

Once you complete the course and pass the assessment, you will receive a certificate of completion.

In most states, this is enough to start working immediately.

However, some states have extra steps:

• NSW: You must apply for an RSA competency card through Service NSW after completing the course. Your interim certificate allows you to work for up to 90 days while waiting for the card.
  
  
• VIC: After completing the online course, you may need to attend a brief in-person session before receiving your certificate.
  

In other states and territories, your RSA certificate is valid as soon as you receive it from an accredited training provider.

If you need an RSA urgently, check with your training provider to confirm when you’ll receive your certificate and whether there are any additional processing times.

How Much Does an RSA Certificate Cost?

The cost of an RSA course depends on the state you’re in and whether you choose to complete the training online or in person.

Prices typically range from $40 to $150, but government regulations and additional fees can affect the total cost.

Average RSA Course Costs by State

State/Territory	Online Course Cost	In-Person Course Cost
NSW	$120 - $150	$150+
VIC	$50 - $80	$80 - $120
QLD	$40 - $60	$50 - $100
WA	$40 - $70	$50 - $100
SA	$40 - $70	$50 - $100
TAS	$40 - $70	$50 - $100
ACT	$50 - $90	$80 - $120
NT	$40 - $70	$50 - $100

Why Do Prices Vary?

The cost of an RSA course can vary based on:

• State regulations: NSW courses are generally more expensive due to extra licensing requirements.
• Training provider: Prices can differ depending on the Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
• Course format: Online courses are usually cheaper than in-person training.
• Additional fees: Some states require extra steps like registering your RSA or applying for a competency card.

Before enrolling, compare prices from different RTOs and check for any additional costs, such as processing fees or competency card applications.

What to Expect in an RSA Course

Before you enrol, it’s helpful to know what the RSA course involves.

The training covers essential knowledge about alcohol laws, responsible service practices, and dealing with intoxicated customers.

Course Format

Most RSA courses are available online, but some states require face-to-face training.

Online courses allow you to finish the RSA certificate course at your own pace and typically includes:

• Interactive modules with videos and quizzes
• Case studies and real-world scenarios
• Final assessment to test your knowledge
  
  
  

Assessments and Passing Requirements

To receive your RSA certificate, you must pass an assessment, which may include:

• Multiple-choice questions
• Short written answers
• Video or audio submissions for practical scenarios (some states require this)

If you don’t pass on the first attempt, most training providers allow a second try at no extra cost.

RSA Certificate FAQs

1. Can I use the same RSA certificate in every state?

No, RSA certificates are not always transferable between states. Some states have specific requirements, so if you plan to work in different locations, check whether you need to complete additional training.

2. Do I need an RSA if I’m just clearing tables?

If you work in a venue where alcohol is served, you might still need an RSA, even if you’re not directly serving drinks. Some states require all staff in licensed premises to be certified, including glass collectors and floor staff.

3. Can I get an RSA before turning 18?

Yes, you can complete an RSA course before turning 18, but your ability to serve alcohol will depend on state laws and employer policies. In some places, under-18s can serve alcohol under supervision.

4. What happens if I lose my RSA certificate?

If you misplace your certificate, you can usually request a replacement from your training provider. Some states also allow you to download a digital copy through their licensing authority.

5. Is an RSA valid for life?

In most states, RSA certificates don’t expire, but some require refresher courses every few years. Always check your state’s rules to stay compliant.

6. Can I complete my RSA on my phone or tablet?

Yes, most online RSA courses are mobile-friendly, but some require a desktop or laptop for certain assessments, like video or audio submissions.

7. Will an RSA help me get a job?

Absolutely. Many employers in hospitality won’t even consider applicants without an RSA, and having one can make you more competitive for entry-level jobs.

8. Do I need an RSA if I only serve alcohol at private events?

It depends. If you’re working at a licensed venue or event, you will likely need an RSA. For private functions, check local regulations, as some states have exemptions.

9. Can international students and backpackers get an RSA?

Yes, as long as you complete an approved course. Many students and backpackers use an RSA to find casual or part-time work while in Australia.

10. How much does an RSA course cost?

RSA course prices vary by provider and state, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $40 to $160. Some states have set fees, while others allow competition among training providers.

Get Your Government-Approved RSA Certificate with National Online Courses

Ensure your RSA certification is valid and recognised by completing your training with National Online Courses (NOC), a fully accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

• 100% online training (where permitted by your state)
• Government-approved by all Australian state regulatory bodies
• Fast, flexible, and easy to complete
  
  

Don't risk wasting time and money on unapproved RSA courses.

Enrol in an Online RSA Course with National Online Courses by clicking the link below: