Quick answerSometimes. SITHFAB021 is a nationally recognised unit, but each state controls who can serve alcohol. NSW needs a NSW Competency Card (via the full course or, for recent interstate RSAs, the bridging course). Victoria needs training through a Liquor Control Victoria approved provider plus the free SHARPR module. WA, SA, TAS and the ACT require an approved provider for that state. In QLD and the NT, SITHFAB021 is nationally recognised and accepted.
Moving for work is common in hospitality — Sydney for summer, Melbourne for events, Perth for the coastal and small-bar scene. Before your first shift, check that your RSA is valid where you're going. The rules depend on the state you're moving to.
State-by-State RSA Transfer Rules
| Moving to | What you need | Expiry |
|---|
| NSW | NSW Competency Card — full NSW RSA, or the bridging course if your interstate RSA is recent | 5 years |
| VIC | RSA from a Liquor Control Victoria approved provider + free SHARPR module | 3 years |
| QLD | SITHFAB021 nationally recognised and accepted | No formal expiry (refresher every 3 years recommended) |
| WA | RSA from an LGIRS-approved provider | No formal expiry |
| SA | RSA from a CBS-approved provider | No formal expiry |
| TAS | RSA from a listed Tasmanian training organisation | 3 years |
| ACT | RSA from an Access Canberra approved provider | 3 years |
| NT | SITHFAB021 nationally recognised and accepted | 3 years |
Job Trainer Australia is approved by state liquor regulators where state approval applies (NSW, VIC, WA, SA, TAS, ACT), so you can complete the right course for your new state with one provider. See our RSA Laws by State guide for full detail.
Before You Move: Quick Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my RSA valid in every state?
SITHFAB021 is nationally recognised, but each state controls who can serve alcohol. NSW needs a Competency Card, Victoria needs an LCV-approved provider plus SHARPR, and WA, SA, TAS and the ACT require an approved provider for that state. In QLD and the NT, SITHFAB021 is nationally recognised and accepted.
Can I use my WA or QLD RSA in NSW?
Not on its own. If you've moved permanently to NSW and your RSA was issued within 5 years (QLD, WA, SA, TAS) or 3 years (VIC, ACT, NT), you may be eligible for the NSW RSA bridging course. Otherwise complete the full NSW RSA course.
Can I use my NSW RSA in Victoria?
Victoria requires RSA training through a Liquor Control Victoria approved provider, plus the free SHARPR module. If your RSA wasn't from an LCV-approved provider, complete the VIC course.
Do I need a new RSA to work in Queensland?
SITHFAB021 is nationally recognised and accepted in QLD, so a current SITHFAB021 Statement of Attainment generally carries across. A refresher every 3 years is recommended.
How quickly can I get my new state's RSA?
You study online at your own pace. Your Statement of Attainment is issued once a qualified assessor deems you competent, typically within 24–48 hours of submitting all assessments (business hours). Optional Priority Marking ($20) means work submitted before 2pm AEST, Monday to Friday, is marked that business day.
How much does a new state RSA cost?
With Job Trainer Australia, RSA is $58 in most states. NSW is $143 in total, which includes the $107 government fee for the NSW Competency Card.
Get the Right RSA for Your New State
One provider, approved by state liquor regulators where state approval applies. RSA from $58.
JTA
Job Trainer AustraliaRTO 45742 · ASQA Regulated · Nationally Recognised Training · 1300 020 615 · info@jta.edu.au
Sources: NSW RSA bridging course · Liquor Control Victoria — approved providers · CBS SA — RSA approved providers