Whether you’re a hospitality worker, a student, or considering a career change, obtaining a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification in Western Australia is an important step to working in roles that involve serving or selling alcohol. The hospitality industry can offer many rewarding career opportunities, and having a valid RSA can open doors to exploring these.
In today’s guide we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to obtain your RSA and get started in the vibrant hospitality industry.
What is an RSA certificate?
A Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate is a mandatory qualification for anyone involved in the sale, service, or supply of alcohol in Australia. It ensures that individuals understand their responsibilities when serving alcohol and are aware of the legal obligations and best practices for promoting responsible drinking.
This certification will cover a number of different topics surrounding the safe and responsible handling of alcohol , including:
- The potential harms of alcohol and how to manage them
- Strategies for preventing underage drinking
- Techniques for managing intoxicated customers
- Laws and regulations surrounding the service of alcohol
Who needs an RSA WA?
You will likely be required to hold a valid WA RSA if you work in the following roles:
- Venue staff monitoring alcohol-related activities
- Liquor store employees
- Bartenders and bar managers
- Event staff working at functions where alcohol is served
- Security personnel in licensed premises
Why is it beneficial to hold an RSA in Western Australia?
There are many reasons why a person may want to obtain their WA RSA. The benefits are numerous, and include the following:
More employment opportunities
Many employers in the hospitality industry require an RSA as a basic qualification. As such, holding a valid RSA certificate can enhance employability in various roles such as bartenders, waitstaff, and retail liquor store employees. Having an RSA shows potential employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to serve alcohol safely and responsibly, making you a valuable asset to their team.
Legal compliance
In Western Australia, it is illegal for anyone to sell or supply alcohol without holding a valid RSA certificate. In fact, not having an RSA may result in legal consequences for both individuals and businesses. By obtaining your certificate, you are ensuring that you are meeting legal requirements and avoiding any potential fines or penalties.
Responsible drinking promotion
The primary goal of an RSA certificate is to promote responsible drinking practices and minimise harm related to alcohol consumption. By completing this certification, individuals gain a better understanding of how to identify and manage potentially dangerous situations involving alcohol. It also teaches individuals how to serve alcohol responsibly and monitor patron behaviour, helping to mitigate any potential harm.
Personal safety
Working in environments where alcohol is served can sometimes pose personal safety risks. By completing an RSA course, you will learn how to manage difficult situations and have the knowledge to better ensure both your own safety and the safety of others. This knowledge and training can also be valuable in other areas of life where alcohol consumption may be present, such as social gatherings or events.
How do I get an RSA card in WA?
To obtain your RSA certificate in Western Australia, you will need to complete an approved training course. In WA, this can be done either online or through a face-to-face training session.
The specific requirements for obtaining your RSA certification may vary slightly depending on which state or territory you are in. In Western Australia, the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) is responsible for regulating the training and issuing of RSA certificates.
The steps to obtaining a WA RSA can differ, but may look a little like this:
Step 1: Choose an accredited training provider
The first step to obtaining your RSA is to enrol in a course with an accredited training provider. Ensure the provider is approved by the relevant Government bodies, and that they’re a registered training organisation (RTO). Express Online Training is a fully-approved RTO, offering access to both face-to-face and RSA WA online courses.
Step 2: Enrol in your chosen training provider’s RSA course
Once you have selected your accredited training provider, it’s time to enrol in their RSA course. This can usually be done online or over the phone, and may require payment of a fee. You may also be required to provide basic details, or submit identification.
Step 3: Complete the required training
The next step is to complete the required training for your chosen RSA course. This will involve either completing an online module or attending a face-to-face session, depending on which option you have chosen.
During the training, you will learn about responsible service of alcohol, strategies for managing difficult situations, and how to comply with relevant laws and regulations. You may also be required to pass an assessment to show your knowledge obtained from the training.
Step 4: Pass the assessment
Once you have successfully completed the training, you will be required to pass an assessment to demonstrate your understanding of the course material. If you pass, you will then receive your RSA certificate.
The assessment may differ slightly depending on the training provider. With Express Online Training’s RSA Online WA, this is a short video assessment.
Step 5: Receive your RSA certificate
Once you have successfully completed the required training and any assessments, you will be issued your RSA certificate. Make sure to keep a copy of it, as you will need to present it to potential employers.
Which RSA is valid in WA?
A number of RSAs are valid for use in Western Australia. These include the Queensland, South Australia, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory, and Tasmanian RSAs. However, if you are planning to work in Western Australia, it is recommended that you complete the RSA WA course. This is because each state and territory has its own specific laws and regulations when it comes to serving alcohol, and completing an RSA course specific to your intended workplace can ensure that you understand these state-specific requirements.
How much does the WA RSA course cost?
The cost of the wa RSA course can vary depending on the provider, typically ranging from $50 to $150. As of August 2024, the RSA Online WA costs $29 from Express Online Training. We also offer Afterpay, allowing you to pay for the course in 4 interest-free payments.
How long is my WA RSA certification valid?
Currently, Western Australia RSA certificates do not have an expiration date. This means that once you successfully obtain your RSA WA, it will remain valid for use indefinitely. However, it is important to note that some employers may require their staff to undertake refresher courses every few years to ensure they are up-to-date with any changes in laws or regulations.
Can I skip certain parts of the RSA WA if I have prior experience?
Even if you have previous experience in the hospitality or alcohol sales industries, it is not possible to skip certain parts of the WA RSA course. The course is designed to ensure that all individuals working in the alcohol industry have a comprehensive understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding responsible service of alcohol. Sections cannot be skipped, even by those that have prior knowledge and understanding of the topic. Additionally, it is important to note that different states may have different laws and regulations, so completing the specific WA RSA course can provide you with state-specific knowledge.
Why choose Express Online Training for the RSA WA course?
There are many reasons to consider Express Online Training for your RSA WA course. With our online RSA courses, you can complete your certification at your own pace, during times that work best for your schedule. This can be particularly helpful for those who work long hours and have limited availability. Our courses are available 24/7, and we offer support 7 days a week, including until late on weekdays.
The RSA Online WA can be completed across mobile devices, tablets, and computers, with progress saved automatically, allowing you to easily resume where you left off. We also offer Afterpay, so you can complete payment for the course in 4 interest-free payments. Express Online Training also has a price best guarantee, and we will beat any competitor price by 10%.
Obtaining your RSA in Western Australia is an important step for anyone looking to work in the hospitality industry in the state. It ensures that you are equipped with the knowledge and skills to sell and serve alcohol responsibly and comply with legal requirements.
We hope this guide has been helpful in explaining the importance of the responsible service of alcohol and the benefits of completing your RSA training.
Ready to get started? Enrol in an RSA course today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in hospitality!
