RSA Course vs. RSA Refresher Course: Which One is Right for You?

For anyone working in the hospitality, retail, or event management industries in Australia, the Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification is essential. This certification ensures you know how to serve alcohol responsibly and comply with local laws. But once you’ve obtained your RSA certificate, you may wonder whether you need to take the full RSA course again or simply complete a refresher course. In this guide, we’ll help you decide which option is right for you and provide direction for those in Victoria.

What Is an RSA Course?

An RSA course is a comprehensive training program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to serve alcohol responsibly. This course is mandatory for anyone working in licensed venues such as bars, restaurants, hotels, or clubs, as well as alcohol delivery drivers and event staff. The RSA course ensures compliance with state and territory liquor laws and protects public safety.

Key Components of the RSA Course:

• Understanding alcohol laws: Learn the legal responsibilities around serving alcohol, including checking IDs and preventing service to minors.

• Recognising intoxication: Identify signs of intoxicated patrons and understand when to refuse service.

• Handling difficult situations: Gain skills to manage challenging situations, including dealing with intoxicated customers.

• Promoting responsible alcohol consumption: Learn strategies to encourage patrons to drink responsibly.

Who Needs to Take the Full RSA Course?

The full RSA course is required if:

• You are new to the hospitality or retail industry.

• You have never completed RSA training before.

• Your RSA certificate has expired, and you need to meet current legal requirements.

• You are changing roles and need certification for jobs such as bartender, wait staff, security officer, or event staff.

If you are in one of these categories, completing a full RSA course is necessary for legal compliance.

What Is an RSA Refresher Course?

An RSA refresher course is a shorter version of the full RSA course, designed for those who already hold an RSA certificate but need to renew or update their knowledge. Some states, like Victoria, require RSA certificates to be renewed every 3 years. The refresher course ensures that individuals stay up to date with any changes in alcohol laws and continue to comply with responsible service practices.

Who Needs to Take an RSA Refresher Course?

You should take an RSA refresher course if:

• You already hold a valid RSA certificate and need to renew it.

• Your RSA certificate is approaching its expiry date.

• Your state requires periodic refresher training (for example, every three years in Victoria).

• You want to ensure you remain compliant with the latest alcohol laws.

For individuals in Victoria, RSA certificates must be renewed every three years. To complete your RSA refresher course, visit the Victorian refresher link.

Key Differences Between the RSA Course and RSA Refresher Course

Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand the differences:

Which Course Is Right for You?

To decide between the full RSA course and the RSA refresher course, consider your current situation.

• Take the full RSA course if:

  • You are new to the industry or have never completed RSA training.

  • Your RSA certificate has expired, and you’re not eligible for a refresher course.

  • You are changing roles and need RSA certification for a new position in a licensed venue.

• Take the RSA refresher course if:

  • Your RSA certificate is still valid, but you need to renew it to remain compliant.

  • You work in Victoria and need to renew your RSA certification every three years. Visit the Victorian refresher link.

  • Your employer requires you to stay updated on alcohol service practices.

How to Enrol in an RSA Course

For individuals needing the full RSA course, CFT offers fully accredited RSA courses in various states, including Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, Northern Territory, ACT and Tasmania. However, CFT does not offer RSA refresher courses. If you’re based in Victoria and need a refresher, please refer to the Victorian refresher course link.

Understanding whether you need a full RSA course or a refresher course depends on your current situation. If you’re new to the industry or your RSA certificate has expired, you’ll need the full course. If you’re simply renewing your certification, the refresher course is the best option for staying compliant with the latest responsible service practices.

CFT offers fully accredited RSA courses for those starting their careers or needing to renew an expired certificate. For those in Victoria looking for refresher training, head to the Victorian RSA refresher link to stay compliant.