Looking to enter the hospitality industry in Western Australia? Getting your Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate is an important first step. Whether you’re a student, changing careers, or just beginning your job search, understanding what an RSA WA is, who needs it, and how to get one can fast-track your path to employment in bars, restaurants, and other venues across the state.
This useful guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the RSA certificate WA, including its importance, validity, and potential cost.
What is an RSA?
An RSA, or Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate, is a qualification required for individuals who serve or supply alcohol in Australia. Its primary goal is to educate hospitality staff on how to safely and responsibly serve alcohol, ensuring legal compliance and minimising harm to patrons and the community.
An RSA WA course covers various topics, including:
- Understanding alcohol and its effects
- Laws and regulations for serving alcohol in Australia
- Identifying and safely handling intoxicated patrons
- Techniques for refusing service politely and effectively when required
Essentially, the RSA certificate equips holders with the knowledge to work in environments where alcohol is served while ensuring the safety of all involved.
Who needs an RSA in WA?
Anyone working in the hospitality industry and serving alcohol in Western Australia is required by law to have a valid RSA WA certificate. This means if your job involves serving alcohol, selling liquor, or overseeing its supply in any professional capacity, you are legally required to hold a valid RSA certificate in WA. This includes roles such as:
- Bartenders
- Waitstaff in licensed restaurants or cafes
- Bottleshop employees
- Event staff at festivals or licensed functions
- Supervisors or managers in venues that serve alcohol
- Crowd controllers and security officers working in licensed premises
Even if you’re just entering the industry, obtaining an RSA certificate is a smart move. Many employers in WA won’t consider candidates without RSA certification, making it an essential requirement for your resume.
Which RSA is valid in WA?
Not all RSA certificates are accepted everywhere in Australia. Each state operates under its own set of liquor licensing laws, meaning an RSA valid in one state may not always meet the criteria for another.
Fortunately, as of February 2024, all RSAs across the country are valid for use in WA. This means if you hold a valid RSA from any state or territory, it will be recognised in Western Australia. However, it’s always best to check with the relevant authorities or your employer to confirm their specific requirements before you begin an RSA course.
Can you do an RSA WA online?
Yes! The RSA WA course can be completed online, allowing you to undertake study from the comfort of your own home. Completing your RSA online is a convenient option, especially for busy job seekers or students who aren’t available during conventional 9-5 hours. Online RSA courses allow you to learn at your own pace, covering all necessary modules before completing a short online assessment.
When looking for RSA WA online course providers, ensure you enrol with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) such as Express Online Training. These RSA courses are equally as valid as in-person courses for working in WA venues.
Some of the benefits of online RSA WA training include:
- Flexible learning – Allowing you to study according to your availability. The online RSA course WA from Express Online Training can be paused and resumed as needed, letting you fit it in around a busy schedule.
- Less commuting – By completing your RSA WA course online, you can save time and money. You won’t need to spend time travelling to a training centre and can avoid transport costs.
- Accessibility— Online WA RSA courses can be completed from anywhere there’s internet access. This means you can study from home, the local library or a cafe.
- Quick turnaround—many providers issue RSA certificates on the same day the course is completed.
How long is an RSA valid for WA?
Unlike some qualifications, RSA certificates technically do not “expire.” Once you’ve earned your certificate, it’s valid indefinitely in WA. However, staying updated with the latest laws and best practices is essential, especially if you’ve spent significant time away from the industry.
Some venues or employers may request refresher courses to ensure that their staff is familiar with any changes to alcohol service laws. It’s always a good idea to check with your employer or training provider for details on refresher courses or updates.
What states is an RSA WA valid in?
Along with Western Australia, the RSA WA can be used when working in Queensland, South Australia, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory, and Tasmania. This means that if you plan to work in New South Wales or Victoria, you will need to complete an RSA course specific to that area. Different states and territories have varying laws and regulations regarding alcohol service, so it’s essential to get the appropriate certification for where you intend to work. It’s always best to check with the relevant authorities or your employer before beginning work in a new state.
How much is an RSA in WA?
The cost of obtaining an RSA certificate in Western Australia can vary depending on the training provider and the delivery method (online vs. in-person). Currently, Express Online Training charges $29 for the RSA Online WA. This can be paid in 4 interest-free payments using Afterpay.
While online training is often the more affordable option, investing in a reputable provider is important to ensure your certificate is valid and recognised across the state.
How do I get an RSA in WA?
As the RSA WA is a short course, the steps for obtaining the certification are relatively straightforward.
Step 1: Choose your RSA provider
The first step is to find an accredited training provider that offers the RSA WA course. With many RTOs available, it’s important to choose one that fits your needs and budget. Make sure the provider is accredited by the Western Australian Government to deliver the WA RSA course.
Step 2: Enrol in the course
After selecting a provider, you will then need to complete the course enrolment. When selecting an online RSA course, you’ll likely need to create an account to complete it. During the enrollment process, you may be required to provide details like your name, address, and date of birth.
Step 3: Undertake the course study
The next step is to complete the RSA course. This course usually takes 4 to 8 hours to finish online. During this study, you’ll learn about responsible service of alcohol laws and how to serve alcohol safely and responsibly.
Step 4: Pass your assessment
To obtain your WA RSA certificate, you must complete and pass the course assessment. The assessment may include multiple-choice or short-answer questions, depending on the provider. If you don’t pass on your first try, most providers offer the option to retake the assessment.
Step 5: Receive your RSA certificate
Once you successfully complete your WA RSA, you’ll receive a certificate of completion. This certificate is essential for securing work in Western Australia’s hospitality industry. Be sure to store it safely, as employers may request it when you apply for jobs.
Why choose EOT for your RSA WA?
There are many reasons to consider Express Online Training as your RSA WA course provider. The course is made to be completed on mobile devices (along with computers), which allows for flexibility in when and where you study. You can pause and resume your study at any time, with your progress automatically saved when you do so. This is fantastic for those with busy schedules, as it allows you to fit the course around your other commitments.
If you run into any difficulties or have a question you’d like answered, we also provide support 7 days a week, and until late on weekdays. With Express Online Training, there are no hidden costs – what you see is what you pay. This includes access to all learning materials, assessment fees and a copy of your certificate upon successful completion. Plus, as a fully-accredited RTO, our courses are fully accredited and recognised by the WA Government.
Completing an online RSA WA course with Express Online Training can be a convenient and cost-effective way to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to serve alcohol responsibly. With its flexibility and accessibility, you can fit the training into your schedule without sacrificing too much time or money.
Getting your RSA in Western Australia is a straightforward and valuable step toward working in the hospitality industry. With jobs in bars, restaurants, liquor stores, and events requiring RSA certification, completing this short course sets you up for success in the vibrant world of alcohol sale and service (and adjacent sectors). Remember, your RSA is an investment in your career—and having it widely expands your job opportunities. If you’re ready to start your hospitality career today, take a look at our RSA Online WA to learn more. Begin your RSA course today and take the first step toward your new job!
