RSA & RCG
For anyone seeking work in hospitality it is an absolute must that you get your Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate.
RSA
All the states have their own version of the RSA certificate and anyone who wants to work in an establishment that provides alcohol, such as pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants, needs one.
It is not just bar staff that need the certificate either – everyone from the manager to the doorman need the RSA.
It’s also important to remember that while other states will accept an RSA attained outside of their boundaries, New South Wales will not. Meaning that if you got your certificate in Queensland or Victoria, for example, you will not be allowed to work in a licensed premises in New South Wales and will have to take the course again.
Courses done in New South Wales, however, are accepted everywhere, so its advisable to do your course there if possible.
Attaining your RSA involves taking a half-day course that will cost you around $75.
You’ll learn all the laws related to licensed premises and get information on your rights and responsibilities when working.
RCG
For those who want to work in pubs and bars it will also be worth investing in the Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) certificate.
Again this is a half-day course that will cost around the same price as your RSA.
Although the course is not compulsory to serve alcohol, it is necessary for establishments that have gambling machines (known as pokies). As the majority of bars throughout Australia will have gambling rooms, most places will insist on you having both your RSA and RCG certificates.
Most course providers will offer a package deal allowing you to do both courses for around $100.
