This section covers the fundamental questions about what an RSA certificate is, why it's necessary, and who needs one.
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What is an RSA certificate?
An RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate is a mandatory qualification for anyone working in an environment where alcohol is sold or served in Australia. It proves you have been trained in the legal and responsible service of alcohol.
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What is the purpose of RSA training?
RSA training aims to minimise the harm caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It equips you with the knowledge and skills to serve alcohol responsibly, identify and assist intoxicated patrons, and prevent the sale of alcohol to minors.
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Who is required to have an RSA certificate?
Anyone involved in the sale, service, or supply of alcohol needs an RSA certificate. This includes bartenders, waiting staff, bottle shop employees, airline cabin crew, security staff at licensed venues, and event staff.
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Is an RSA certificate a legal requirement in Australia?
Yes, it is a legal requirement in all Australian states and territories for staff involved in the service of alcohol.
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What jobs can I get with an RSA certificate?
An RSA certificate opens up a wide range of job opportunities in the hospitality industry, including positions in restaurants, bars, pubs, clubs, hotels, resorts, bottle shops, and at festivals and events.
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What is the nationally recognised unit of competency for RSA?
The current nationally recognised unit of competency is 'SITHFAB021 - Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol'. Ensure any course you take offers this unit.
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Can I get a job without an RSA certificate?
You can get a job in a licensed venue, but you will not be able to serve alcohol until you have obtained your RSA certificate. Most employers will require you to have it before you commence employment.
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How old do I have to be to get an RSA certificate?
Generally, you can complete RSA training if you are 16 or 17 years old, but you will not be able to serve alcohol until you are 18. Having the certificate can make you more employable once you turn 18.
The rules surrounding RSA certification vary across Australia. This section breaks down the key differences.
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Are RSA requirements the same in every state?
No, each state and territory has its own liquor licensing authority with specific RSA training requirements.
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Do I need a different RSA for each state?
In many cases, yes. While the core knowledge is similar, some states do not recognise RSA certificates from other jurisdictions. Always check the local requirements of the state you plan to work in.
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How long is an RSA certificate valid for in New South Wales (NSW)?
In NSW, an RSA competency card is valid for five years.
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How long is an RSA certificate valid for in Victoria (VIC)?
A VIC RSA certificate is valid for three years. You must complete a free online refresher course every three years to maintain its validity.
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How long is an RSA certificate valid for in Queensland (QLD)?
In Queensland, a nationally accredited RSA Statement of Attainment does not expire.
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How long is an RSA certificate valid for in Western Australia (WA)?
In WA, a nationally accredited RSA Statement of Attainment does not expire.
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How long is an RSA certificate valid for in South Australia (SA)?
A South Australian RSA certificate does not have a set expiry date.
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How long is an RSA certificate valid for in Tasmania (TAS)?
RSA certification in Tasmania does not expire.
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How long is an RSA certificate valid for in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)?
In the ACT, your RSA certificate is valid for three years.
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How long is an RSA certificate valid for in the Northern Territory (NT)?
An NT RSA certificate is valid for three years.
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What is an RSA competency card?
Some states, like NSW, require you to apply for a physical or digital competency card after completing your training. This card must be carried with you while you are working.
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Can I transfer my RSA from one state to another?
This depends on the state. Some have bridging courses or recognise RSA qualifications from other jurisdictions, while others require you to complete their specific course. For example, to work in NSW with an interstate RSA, you may need to complete a bridging course.
Here, we delve into the details of the RSA training course itself.
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Can I complete my RSA course online?
Yes, in most states and territories, you can complete a 100% online RSA course. National Online Courses offers government-approved online RSA training for multiple states.
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Is an online RSA certificate as valid as one from a face-to-face course?
Yes, provided the online course is delivered by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and is approved by the relevant state or territory liquor licensing authority.
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How long does an online RSA course take to complete?
Most online RSA courses take between 4 to 6 hours to complete. The benefit of an online course is that you can learn at your own pace.
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What topics are covered in an RSA course?
RSA training covers your legal responsibilities, the effects of alcohol, identifying intoxicated patrons, strategies for refusing service, and harm minimisation techniques.
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What does the assessment for an RSA course involve?
Assessments typically include multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and a practical skills assessment, which for online courses is often done via video submission.
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Do I need to record a video of myself for the online assessment?
Maybe. Some online RSA courses require a video submission where you demonstrate your ability to refuse service and handle difficult situations, as per national training package requirements. Always check with your provider.
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What happens if I fail the RSA assessment?
Most reputable training providers will give you multiple attempts to pass the assessment. They should also provide support from qualified trainers if you are struggling with the material.
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What do I receive upon successful completion of the course?
You will receive a Statement of Attainment for the unit SITHFAB021 - Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol. This is your official RSA certificate.
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How quickly will I get my certificate after completing the course?
With National Online Courses, your Statement of Attainment is typically issued on the same day you successfully complete and pass all assessments.
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Do I need any prior knowledge or experience to enrol?
No, the RSA course is designed for beginners and does not require any prior hospitality experience.
This section addresses the practical financial aspects of your RSA course.
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How much does an RSA course cost?
The cost varies by state and provider. Online courses are generally more affordable, with prices typically ranging from $25 to $100.
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Are there any hidden fees with online RSA courses?
Reputable providers like National Online Courses have no hidden fees. The price you see is the price you pay for the training and your certificate.
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How do I pay for my RSA course?
Most online providers accept payment via credit card, debit card, or PayPal. Some may also offer 'buy now, pay later' options.
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Is my RSA course fee tax-deductible?
If the course is directly related to your current employment, you may be able to claim the course fees as a tax deduction. It's best to consult with a tax professional for advice.
This section focuses on the lifecycle of your RSA certificate after you've completed the course.
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How do I renew my RSA certificate?
Renewal requirements depend on your state. For states like NSW, VIC, and ACT, you will receive a reminder to complete a refresher or renewal course online before your certificate expires.
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What happens if my RSA certificate expires?
If your RSA certificate expires, you are no longer legally able to serve alcohol. You will need to complete the required renewal or refresher course, or in some cases, a full new course.
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I've lost my RSA certificate. How can I get a replacement?
You should contact the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that issued your original certificate. They will be able to provide you with a new copy, though a fee may apply.
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How long does it take to receive a replacement certificate?
This depends on the provider, but most RTOs can issue a digital replacement certificate within one business day.
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Do I need to carry my RSA certificate with me at work?
Yes, you must have a copy of your RSA certificate or competency card available for inspection by police or liquor licensing inspectors while you are working. A digital copy on your phone is often acceptable.
This section is dedicated to visitors, working holiday makers, and international students.
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Can international students or people on working holiday visas do an RSA course?
Yes, as long as your visa has work rights, you are eligible to complete an RSA course. It's a very common and useful qualification for finding work while in Australia.
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Do I need a USI (Unique Student Identifier) if I'm not an Australian citizen?
Yes, anyone studying a vocational training course in Australia, regardless of citizenship, needs a USI. You can create one for free online using your passport and visa details.
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Is the Australian RSA certificate recognised in my home country?
No, the Australian RSA certificate is specific to Australian laws and regulations and is not recognised in other countries.
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Is the course material difficult for people whose first language is not English?
Reputable courses are written in clear, plain English. National Online Courses provides text, video, and image-based learning, plus dedicated trainer support to help all students succeed.
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What do I need to enrol in a course as an international student?
You will need your passport, a valid visa with work rights, and your Unique Student Identifier (USI).
This final section covers using your RSA in the workplace and choosing your training partner.
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What are my key responsibilities as an RSA-certified worker?
Your key responsibilities include always serving alcohol responsibly, not serving intoxicated persons, not serving minors, and actively promoting a safe environment.
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What are the penalties for not having a valid RSA?
Penalties can be severe and include significant fines for both the individual and the licensee of the venue.
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What should I do if a customer becomes aggressive when I refuse service?
Your RSA training will provide you with strategies to handle such situations calmly and professionally. The key is to be polite but firm, state the law, and seek assistance from a manager or security if needed.
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Why should I choose National Online Courses for my RSA?
National Online Courses is a government-approved Registered Training Organisation (RTO No. 41072) offering nationally recognised training that is 100% online (where permitted), self-paced, and backed by expert support.
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How do I enrol in an RSA course with National Online Courses?
Enrolment is simple and can be completed in minutes on our website. Just select your state, fill in your details, and you can start your training immediately after payment.
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What's the biggest advantage of getting my RSA with National Online Courses?
Flexibility and speed. You can complete your training at your own pace, from anywhere, and receive your certificate quickly, allowing you to enter the workforce sooner with a government-approved, job-ready qualification.
Our RSA courses are delivered 100% online (where permitted) and approved for use in multiple states and territories across Australia, including:
- New South Wales (NSW) – includes the Liquor & Gaming NSW approved online RSA with competency card application
- Victoria (VIC)
- Queensland (QLD)
- Western Australia (WA)
- South Australia (SA)
- Tasmania (TAS)
- Northern Territory (NT)
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Nationally Recognised Unit of Competency
All RSA training provided by NOC meets the current nationally recognised unit of competency: SITHFAB021 – Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol.
Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment that’s valid for work in the relevant jurisdiction.
Learn at Your Own Pace
Our courses are designed for maximum flexibility. You can start your training immediately after enrolling and complete the modules at your own pace, from any device.
You can choose to finish your online RSA course in one sitting or spread it out over a few days, the choice is yours.
Fast Certificate Issuance
Once you pass the assessment requirements, you’ll typically receive your Statement of Attainment the same day.
That means you can be job-ready within hours.
No Hidden Fees
The price you see is the total price you pay.
All training materials, support, assessment, and your official certificate are included in one upfront fee.
There are no nasty surprises or additional costs later.
Support Every Step of the Way
Studying online doesn’t mean you’re on your own.
National Online Courses provides expert trainer support, accessible via email and phone. If you’re struggling with course content or assessment requirements, we’re here to help.
Ideal for Students, Job Seekers, and Hospitality Workers
Whether you're new to the workforce, visiting Australia on a working holiday visa, or a seasoned hospitality worker renewing your credentials, NOC's RSA training is a reliable, fast-track pathway to employment in licensed venues across the country.
Trusted by Thousands
National Online Courses has helped thousands of Australians and international visitors get certified and job-ready.
Our 5-star student feedback speaks to the quality of our training and the effectiveness of our support.
Start Now
Enrol online in minutes, choose your state, and begin your RSA training today.
With National Online Courses, you can gain your RSA certificate quickly, affordably, and from the comfort of your own home.
