Who Needs This Course?

In Western Australia, the Liquor Control Act 1988 requires every liquor licensee to appoint an Approved Manager to supervise and manage licensed premises. This person acts on behalf of the licensee and shares responsibility for meeting all legal obligations. An Approved Manager must be physically present at the venue whenever alcohol is being sold or supplied.

Requirements for Bar and Hospitality Staff in WA

All bar staff, supervisory staff, licensees, approved managers, and crowd controllers in WA must complete mandatory training in liquor laws and the Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA). If you have not completed RSA before starting work, you have 28 days from your employment start date to do so.

Lodging Your Approved Manager Application

Before taking on an Approved Manager role, you must lodge an application with CITS. You will need: a copy of your nationally recognised MLPLCA001 (52863WA) Statement of Attainment, a National Police Clearance no more than 3 months old, and completed application forms from the CITS WA website.

Food Training with Job Trainer Australia

Australia upholds some of the world's most rigorous food hygiene and safety protocols, supported by comprehensive legislation, nationally mandated training, and ongoing upskilling programs. Despite these measures, foodborne illness outbreaks remain a challenge — costing the economy over $2 billion annually.

Key Requirements

• National law requires all food handlers to complete accredited food safety training
• Every licensed hospitality venue must have at least one trained Food Safety Supervisor on duty at all times
• December 2023 brought tightened Food Safety Standards for businesses handling high-risk foods

What is HACCP?

HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) is the internationally recognised benchmark for risk management in food safety. For most Australian food businesses, maintaining a HACCP-aligned Food Safety Program is a legal requirement.

Why Hospitality Could Be Your Ideal Career Start

Australia's hospitality scene is buzzing. From stunning beachfront resorts to lively city coffee spots, the industry is worth over $64 billion a year. For many entry-level jobs, you don't need previous experience — employers care more about attitude, adaptability, and eagerness to learn.

How to Get Started

1. Get Your Essential Certifications: Complete RSA and Food Safety courses with Job Trainer Australia
2. Try Volunteer or Trial Shifts: Gain experience and build references
3. Network: Connect with venue managers and join hospitality Facebook groups
4. Look for Regional Roles: Many include free or subsidised accommodation
5. Update Your CV: Highlight customer service skills and enthusiasm

Visa Options for Overseas Workers

• Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or 462)
• Student Visa with approved work hours
• Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa

Check the latest rules on the Australian Government Home Affairs website. International students completing training offshore may be USI exempt — see our USI Exempt Guide.

How to Get Your RSA Certificate

If you're planning to work in Australia's hospitality industry, your RSA certificate (SITHFAB021) is a legal requirement. Whether you'll be behind a bar, serving customers, or managing events, RSA ensures you meet state liquor licensing obligations.

RSA Expiry by State

• NSW: 5 years (Liquor Act 2007)
• VIC: 3 years (Liquor Control Reform Act 1998)
• QLD: No formal expiry (Liquor Act 1992)
• WA: No formal expiry (Liquor Control Act 1988)
• SA: No formal expiry (Liquor Licensing Act 1997)
• TAS: 3 years (Liquor Licensing Act 1990)
• NT: 3 years (Liquor Act 2019)
• ACT: 3 years (Liquor Act 2010)

RSA Laws — Understanding Legal Requirements

Navigating RSA laws across Australia can be complex, as each state operates under its own legislation and regulator. It's essential to know your local RSA laws to avoid penalties and ensure safe, compliant alcohol service.

What is RSA Certification?

RSA certification (SITHFAB021) is mandatory for anyone serving or supplying alcohol in licensed venues. Training covers identifying signs of intoxication, refusing service to minors and intoxicated customers, applying harm minimisation strategies, and following state-specific liquor laws.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Supplying alcohol to minors: Fines, licence suspension or cancellation
• Serving intoxicated customers: Fines for both staff and venue owners
• Working without RSA: Legal action and employment termination

How to Become a Licensee in NSW

Completing Licensee Training (LT) or Advanced Licensee Training (ALT) is mandatory for most licensees, approved managers, and club secretaries in NSW. Job Trainer Australia is an approved online training provider delivering these courses on behalf of Liquor & Gaming NSW.

Who Needs to Complete Licensee Training?

• A new licensee granted a liquor licence from 1 September 2018 onwards
• An approved manager responsible for running licensed premises
• A club secretary of a registered club
• Anyone transferring an existing liquor licence

Licensee Refresher Training

The Licensee Refresher is a 60–90 minute online program for existing licensees. On completion, your NSW Competency Card is renewed for another five years. Review full details on the Liquor & Gaming NSW website.