Hospitality is one of the most popular industries for working holiday makers in Australia. Bars, pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, and bottle shops are almost always hiring, the hours suit a flexible lifestyle, and the pay can be good. But if you want to serve or sell alcohol, you need a Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate, known as an RSA, before you start.
What is the RSA?
The RSA is a short certification course that trains workers in the responsible service of alcohol. It is a legal requirement across Australia for anyone involved in selling, serving, or supplying alcohol. The course covers how to identify signs of intoxication, how to refuse service, the legal obligations of staff and venue operators, and how to prevent alcohol-related harm.
Without an RSA, you cannot legally serve a drink at a licensed venue.
Who needs it?
Any working holiday maker who wants to work in a role that involves alcohol service. This includes bar staff, waitstaff in licensed restaurants, bottle shop employees, and event staff serving alcohol. If you are applying for a job at a pub or bar and do not have an RSA, your application will likely not proceed.
How to get an RSA
You complete a course through a registered training provider. The course can be done online or in a classroom. The online version typically takes three to five hours. The cost is around $90, though this varies by state and provider. Some employers will cover the cost if they are hiring you, so it is worth asking before you pay.
Is it valid in every state?
RSA certificates are issued at a state level, and they are not automatically recognised in other states. A certificate obtained in Victoria may not be valid for work in Queensland. If you plan to work in hospitality across multiple states, you may need to complete the course again in each new state.
How long does it last?
This varies by state. In some states the RSA does not expire, while in others it must be renewed every few years. Confirm the validity period with your provider when you complete the course.
Can you claim the cost as a tax deduction?
Yes. If you completed the RSA course to obtain or maintain employment in hospitality, it qualifies as a work-related deduction. Keep your receipt and include it in your tax return.
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Questions about working rights on a working holiday visa?
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