Why an RSA Certificate is Essential

If you’re looking to land a job anywhere that serves alcohol in Australia, getting your Responsible Service of Alcohol RSA certificate is one of the first steps.

It’s a legal requirement in most states and territories across the country.

From city bars and beachside pubs to events, clubs, and bottle shops, venues are legally obligated to make sure staff know how to serve alcohol responsibly.

That’s exactly what an RSA course teaches you: how to follow the rules, keep customers safe, and avoid legal risks — for you and your employer.

But beyond the compliance side, an RSA also shows that you’re ready to work. Many employers won’t even consider you without it.

It’s a simple way to boost your employability in a competitive job market, especially when you’re just starting out or picking up casual work.

Once you’re certified, a whole world of flexible, fast-paced, and often fun hospitality roles opens up.

Whether you’re chasing weekend shifts, travel work, or a full-time career — the RSA is your entry-point into a thriving industry that is always looking for certified workers.

Top Jobs You Can Get With an RSA Certificate

Obtaining an RSA certificate opens up a bunch of doors and makes you highly employable — and we’re not just talking about regular bartending jobs at your local drinking spot.

From relaxed beach pubs to high-end hotels and lively festivals, there’s a wide variety of roles that require an RSA qualification.

Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular job options and where you’ll typically find them across Australia:

*Pay ranges are a general guide and can vary depending on location, experience, and employer.

As you can see, it’s not only main city locations where you'll find RSA jobs. RSA jobs can be found everywhere across Australia — and they’re always in demand.

About RSA Job Roles

Now that you’ve seen the different types of RSA jobs available, let’s break them down even further so you know exactly what each job requires you to do.

Each role comes with its own vibe, responsibilities, and perks — and your RSA training plays a key part in making sure you’re job-ready from day one.

• Bartender

If you love a fast-paced environment and don’t mind working late nights, bartending can be both fun and financially rewarding.

You’ll be mixing drinks, chatting to customers, handling cash, and keeping an eye out for signs of intoxication — all part of your responsible service of alcohol training.

• Waitstaff

Many people don’t realise that even waiters and waitresses often need an RSA, especially if they’re serving wine or beer at the table.

It’s a great role for anyone who’s organised, friendly, and good under pressure. Plus, tips are always a bonus.

• Event & Festival Staff

This is where the RSA gets you into some of the most exciting gigs. Think music festivals, sporting events, food trucks, and even private parties.

Jobs here can be short-term, but the pay tends to be higher and the atmosphere unbeatable.

• Hotel & Resort Roles

Fancy working in luxury surroundings or getting into the travel industry? Hotels, resorts, and even cruise ships often hire RSA-qualified staff for roles like bar attendants, mini-bar staff, or function supervisors.

It’s a professional setting with career growth potential.

• Bottle Shop & Retail

Working in a bottle shop isn’t just about scanning barcodes — you’ll need to know how to ID customers and refuse service if needed.

Your RSA helps you manage this confidently and legally, which is why employers value it so highly in retail liquor roles.

• Backpacker & Rural Hospitality

If you're on a working holiday visa or just want to see more of the country, RSA jobs in small towns, roadhouses, and pubs are perfect.

They often include free accommodation, meals, or travel allowances — a top choice for adventurous types.

How to Find an RSA Job

Finding your first RSA job might be easier than you think — especially when you know where to look and how to stand out.

Whether you're after casual shifts, full-time gigs, or travel-friendly roles, there’s a path that fits.

1. Start with Hospitality Venues

Bars, restaurants, pubs and clubs are always on the lookout for RSA-qualified staff.

These venues value people who can hit the ground running and handle customers confidently.

Pop into local places with your resume, or browse online job boards like Seek, Indeed or Jora.

Don’t forget to check local Facebook job groups — many venues advertise casual shifts there as well.

2. Register with Event Staffing Agencies

If you want flexibility and variety, sign up with an event staffing agency.

These companies provide RSA-certified workers to festivals, sporting events, weddings, and private functions.

Once you’re in their system, you’ll be offered shifts based on your availability — perfect for students, travellers, or anyone after extra cash.

3. Apply with Hotels, Resorts and Cruise Lines

Big names like Crown, Accor, Hilton and even cruise companies regularly advertise roles that require an RSA.

Think in-house bars, restaurants, poolside service, or function centres.

These roles often come with career progression and perks like staff meals or accommodation discounts.

Keep an eye on company career pages or job platforms for openings.

4. Check Out Bottle Shops and Retail Liquor

Liquor retail jobs are another great option — and often come with more structured hours.

Employers like Dan Murphy’s, BWS, and independent bottle shops all require RSA training.

These roles focus on responsible sales, checking ID, and offering customer advice. Search directly on company websites or retail job boards.

5. Look Into Backpacker-Friendly Gigs

If you’re travelling Australia or on a working holiday visa, rural pubs, roadhouses, and hostels can be goldmines for RSA work.

Jobs often come with free meals, staff accommodation, or bonuses.

Websites like Workstay, Gumtree, and Backpacker Job Board are great starting points.

6. Make Yourself Stand Out

Once you've found a role you're keen on, it helps to go the extra mile. Make sure your RSA certificate is up to date and easy to access.

Add relevant experience (even volunteer or school-related) to your resume.

If you're walking into a venue, dress neatly and be polite — first impressions count.

With a bit of effort and the right approach, your RSA certificate can open doors to dozens of opportunities — whether you’re after a weekend side hustle, a full-time role, or a job that lets you explore the country while you work.

Benefits of an RSA Job

There’s a reason RSA jobs are one of the most common first steps into the workforce — they’re flexible, fun, and often come with extra perks.

Whether you’re a student, traveller, career-changer or just chasing something new, RSA roles are a smart move.

✓ Flexible Hours

From casual weekend shifts to full-time hospitality careers, RSA jobs work around your lifestyle. They’re perfect for people who need time for study, family or side hustles, but still want a reliable income.

✓ Fast Hiring

There’s always demand — and that means it’s not unusual to land a job within days of completing your RSA course. Venues often hire fast, especially during busy seasons or major events.

✓ Decent Pay (Plus Tips)

RSA jobs generally offer good hourly rates, and many venues also pay weekend and public holiday penalties. Add tips to that and you’re looking at some solid cash in your pocket — especially for casual roles.

✓ Great Work Environments

Let’s be honest: working behind a bar at a beachside pub or helping run a music festival beats sitting at a desk. RSA jobs can be social, upbeat and rewarding, especially if you enjoy meeting new people.

✓ Pathways to Bigger Opportunities

Start in a casual role, and you could quickly move into supervisor, manager or event coordinator positions. Many people who start with an RSA end up building long-term careers in hospitality, events or tourism.

Getting an RSA Certificate 

If you’re looking for work that’s flexible, fast to get into, and full of variety, RSA jobs are a great choice, either as long-term career or short-term solution.

Whether you’re chasing cash while studying, exploring Australia on a working holiday, or building a full-time hospitality career — it all starts with your RSA certificate.

The good news? Getting RSA certified is simple, affordable, and can be done in-person or 100% online.

Once you’ve got it, you’re ready to work in bars, clubs, festivals, restaurants, hotels, and more — all across the country.

At the end of the day, RSA jobs are more than just pouring drinks.

You’re part of a team, meeting new people, building real skills, and creating experiences for others — and yourself.

So if you’re ready to start earning and open the door to a wide range of job opportunities, getting your RSA is the first step.