The RSA course is essential training for anyone who sells, serves, or supplies alcohol in New South Wales. This course provides the foundation to ensure alcohol is served responsibly, adhering to NSW liquor laws and harm minimisation strategies. Completing RSA training is a legal requirement for individuals working in licensed premises or venues where alcohol is sold, served, or supplied.
The course includes the national unit of competency SITHFAB021 Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol and NSW-specific components, covering:
- NSW liquor laws and responsible practices for selling, serving, or supplying alcohol
- Identifying and managing intoxication, including assessing affected customers and refusing service
- ID checks, secondary supply, and ensuring compliance when serving minors
- Implementing harm minimisation strategies and addressing compliance and enforcement requirements
RSA training applies to a wide range of roles, including licensees, managers, service staff, security personnel, promotional staff, and volunteers. It is relevant in various settings, from restaurants, clubs, and bars to wineries, breweries, distilleries, and even packaged liquor outlets.
This course equips students with the skills and knowledge to uphold responsible practices, ensure legal compliance, and promote a safe and enjoyable environment for patrons. Upon completion, students will meet the legal requirements to work in NSW licensed premises, contributing to the responsible and safe management of alcohol service.
Upon successful completion of assessment task(s) students will be awarded a Statement of Attainment for unit: SITHFAB021 Provide responsible service of alcohol.
Cards are valid for 5 years.
Pre-requisites
Students must have sufficient language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) skills to interpret regulatory and in-house policy information, verify ID documents, and calculate standard drink volumes. They must also communicate effectively to explain alcohol laws, de-escalate conflicts with intoxicated patrons, share information with team members, and handle difficult customers professionally in line with organisational procedures.
Photo Competency Card
Upon completing an approved RSA/RCG in NSW, students receive an Interim Statement valid for 90 days allowing them to work in licenced venues.
Students must apply for a photo competency card at a participating Service NSW outlet.
To find your nearest participating Service NSW Service Centre outlet go to www.service.nsw.gov.au/service-centre or call 13 77 88.
Photo Competency Card Renewal
Students will be sent a reminder notice by email/SMS before the competency card expires. You have up to 28 days after your card expires to visit the online portal to complete refresher training.
Cards cannot be renewed through a training provider during the 28 days. If you do not renew in this time you will need to complete a full RSA/RCG course at a registered training provider.
Find more information at www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/