CFT 
Online RSA Courses
Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol Courses (SITHFAB021)
An Online RSA is a must if you want to work in any licensed venue and are involved in the sale or service of alcohol in SA, WA, NT, QLD, or Victoria. These courses cover everything you need to know about the responsible service of alcohol.
The RSA Online (Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol SITHFAB021) helps to create a safe and enjoyable environment for both customers and staff. It also promotes responsible drinking habits and reduces the harm caused by alcohol. RSA Courses are available online with CFT, and they usually take between 4-6 hours to complete.
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Includes RSA Certificate of Completion
Course Information:
Which RSA Course Should You Choose?
Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol- SITHFAB021 (Interstate RSA) - this is suitable for South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory, and Queensland only, with the skills and certification transferable across these states and territories
Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol- SITHFAB021 (RSA Melbourne & Victoria) is specific to Victoria only.
Select Your RSA Course By State:
Please note that for all states apart from Victoria the course required is the same, and the skills and certification are transferable across states and territories. The course pages shown here offer local information about RSA courses where it's relevant.
Includes RSA Certificate of Completion
SITHFAB021 – Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol
Real Stories from our
Previous Students
"I am extremely satisfied with the courses I’ve completed and will absolutely recommend your services to others. If you're looking for a top-tier training provider, I can't recommend CFT enough!"
"Recently, I needed to complete a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) course, and CFT International was recommended by a friend.
After doing some research, I discovered that CFT is registered with the Australian Skills Quality Authority, which gave me confidence to proceed—and I'm so glad I did!
My experience with CFT has been outstanding! In fact, I was so impressed that I returned to their site to complete another certificate course.
Each course was well-structured, professional, and incredibly relevant. The presentation wasn’t just dry theory; it was brought to life with workplace scenarios through videos and photos.
This made it feel like I was right there in the classroom or workplace, which really helped drive the points home. Watching these videos gave me a clear understanding of what’s expected in various real-world situations.
One feature I particularly appreciated was that I couldn’t progress to the next level unless I fully understood the current one. This allowed me to take thorough notes and revisit areas I wasn’t completely confident in before moving on to the final assessments. It made the learning experience much more comprehensive and ensured I retained the information.
On top of that, their customer service is top-notch. I had to call once to clarify a point, and the help I received was excellent—special thanks to Carmel for her patience and guidance.
Thank you, CFT!"
Responsible Service of Alcohol FAQs
An RSA certificate (Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol) is a qualification that demonstrates you have completed Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol training. It is essential for anyone serving or selling alcohol in licensed venues across Australia, including Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, WA, NT, NSW, and Tasmania.
The RSA Online is an Interstate RSA- meaning it is valid in all states except NSW and VIC.
- Valid in QLD & Brisbane
- Valid in NT & Darwin
- Valid in SA
- Valid in WA
- Valid in TAS
See here for state-specific information on the Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol course:
VIC RSA Online | Victoria & Melbourne
NSW RSA | NSW
The Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol assessment typically includes eLearning sections comprised of multiple choice quiz, drag and drop, fill-in-the-blank answers. You are also required to submit x2 role play videos. Both of these are part of your assessment.
The role play videos are to assess your ability to deal with customers who are showing signs of being intoxicated, and those customers are clearly intoxicated.
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding the RSA assessment.
You can also look at our helpful resources page with videos to help you with your assessment: Resources
View the course page for more course information and a course outline.
RSA certificates are valid for 3 years from the date of issue. The RSA certificate does not provide an expiry date so please make a note to yourself to remember to renew your RSA certificates 3 years after the date of issue. If you miss the renewal period or your certificate lapses, you can complete the initial RSA course again.
LCV RSA certificates are usually issued the same day that you are assessed as competent in your VIC RSA course. The LCV RSA certificate is emailed to the learner, in PDF form. Learners should check their inbox, spam and junk folders to find the email with LCV RSA certificate attached.
A competency card, often issued after completing an RSA course, serves as proof that you have met the legal requirements to serve alcohol. In some states, this is also known as a 'photo competency card' and must be carried while working.
Yes, an RSA refresher course is available and may be required every few years, depending on state regulations. It ensures that you stay updated on the latest alcohol service laws and practices.
RSA certificates are generally recognised across states, but you may need to complete a RSA bridging course or additional requirements for some states such as Victoria and NSW RSA's. Always check the specific RSA requirements of the state you plan to work in.
To work in the sale or service of alcohol in licensed venues, you must complete an accredited RSA course and learn RSA skills. This training covers legal responsibilities around the supply of alcohol, how to serve alcohol responsibly, alcohol principles, and how to handle difficult situations involving alcohol.
To fulfill the licensing requirements and performance criteria for roles and businesses involving the supply of alcohol and liquor, you will need to attain a Statement of Attainment in Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol (SITHFAB021) certification.
Some of the roles that require the RSA certification are:
- Liquor Outlet
- Bartender
- Winery
- Brewery and Distillery
- Liquor Salespersons
- Providing Alcohol Samples & Promotional Services
- Licensees
You can obtain an alcohol RSA certificate by enrolling in and completing an accredited RSA training course. Our online training course is user-friendly, focusing on the SITHFAB021 unit: Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol. Upon successful attainment of the required competency, we provide same-day certificates to get you started quickly in the liquor industry.
If you fail the RSA assessment for the SITHFAB021: Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol qualification, don't worry. You can retake it without any additional charges. Our course description includes unlimited retakes to ensure you attain the required competency and successfully achieve your RSA qualification.
Yes, the RSA course can be completed online in Victoria. Our online RSA course is fully accredited and can be completed in less than 6 hours, offering flexibility and convenience.
In Victoria, the cost of our RSA course is $49. We offer an accredited online course that provides exceptional value with same-day certificates and 7-day support.
Payment can be made via credit card at time of enrolment.
The cost of our RSA course in Queensland is $49. We offer competitive pricing along with comprehensive support and same-day certification.
Payment can be made via credit card at time of enrolment.
As someone with RSA certification, you should understand the protocols that licensed venues follow when refusing service to customers showing signs of intoxication or already clearly intoxicated. During role-plays, you'll demonstrate your skills in managing these scenarios and showcase your ability to handle such situations effectively.
View our resources section for more information on the role play assessment requirements: Resources
Yes, international students and overseas students can obtain an RSA certificate. As a registered training organisation, we welcome international students to enrol in our accredited RSA training course. Please note that you will need a Unique Student Identifier (USI) number to complete your enrolment. Upon successful attainment of the course's competency requirements, you will receive your RSA certification. This certification is essential for meeting industry standards and ensuring compliance with responsible service of alcohol regulations.
What is a USI number, and why do I need it for RSA certification?
A USI (Unique Student Identifier) number is a unique ten-character reference number assigned to each student in Australia. You need a USI number to obtain your attainment of nationally recognised training and qualifications, including the RSA certification through a vocational education provider. It helps maintain a secure online record of your training and achievements.
How do I obtain a USI number?
You can create a USI number online through the official USI website. The process is straightforward and requires personal identification details. Having a USI number is mandatory and a legislative requirement for all students seeking attainment of nationally recognised certifications.
What are the certification requirements for the RSA course?
To attain your RSA Statement of Attainment certification, you must complete the required training course, which includes assessments on
- legal compliance,
- risk assessment,
- communication skills,
- refusal techniques,
- underage drinking prevention,
- intoxication levels,
- and alcohol content knowledge.
Meeting these certification requirements ensures you are qualified to serve alcohol responsibly and in compliance with liquor laws.
How does the USI number relate to my RSA certification?
Your USI number is linked to your RSA certification and any other nationally recognised training you undertake. It ensures that your certification is officially recorded and can be accessed whenever needed, simplifying the process of proving your qualifications to employers and regulatory bodies.
What happens if I fail to provide a USI number?
Without a USI number, you cannot attain a nationally recognised RSA certification. It is crucial to provide your USI number during the enrolment process to ensure your certification requirements are met and officially recorded.
Please contact us if you have any questions about obtaining your USI number using our phone number in office hours or chat/ email for out of hours support.
RSA Online: All your questions answered
Why Study An RSA Online Course?
Our comprehensive RSA online alcohol training program is made up of units of competency that cover:
- Legal compliance,
- Risk assessment,
- Communication skills,
- Refusal techniques,
- Underage drinking prevention,
- Intoxication levels,
- Liquor laws,
- Alcohol content knowledge,
- and state and territory liquor licensing authority regulations.
Upon successful completion, you will receive a Statement of Attainment in Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol (SITHFAB021)
Upon successful completion you will receive a Statement of Attainment in Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol (SITHFAB021)
By registering for an RSA course, you not only fulfil legal obligations but also uphold a moral duty to ensure customer safety.
In case you're not yet convinced about an RSA course, here are some more reasons!
1) Personal Benefits of RSA
Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol Training (RSA) training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively handle challenging situations related to the sale and service of alcohol.
As a result, trained individuals often experience increased confidence in their abilities to manage such scenarios, both within their professional roles and in other areas of life.
Effective communication is a fundamental aspect of RSA certificate training, as it involves interacting with patrons, colleagues, and authorities in a professional and respectful manner.
By honing their communication skills during training, individuals can apply these skills to enhance their interpersonal relationships and communication in personal and professional settings.
RSA training instils a sense of responsibility and accountability in individuals regarding the safe service of liquor.
This heightened awareness of responsible behaviour can extend beyond the workplace, leading individuals to make more informed and responsible decisions in their personal lives.
Dealing with intoxicated patrons or managing potentially confrontational situations requires quick thinking and effective problem-solving skills.
Through RSA training, individuals develop the ability to assess situations, make informed decisions, and resolve conflicts, skills that are valuable not only in the workplace but also in everyday life.
RSA training provides valuable insights into the potential risks and consequences of alcohol misuse, including health implications and legal ramifications.
This increased awareness of health and safety issues surrounding alcohol consumption can motivate individuals to make healthier lifestyle choices and encourage responsible drinking habits among themselves and others.
Obtaining RSA certification opens up opportunities for career advancement and professional development within the hospitality industry in roles such as food and beverage attendants.
Individuals with RSA training may qualify for a wider range of job opportunities and positions that require responsible alcohol service certification, thereby enhancing their career prospects and potential for growth.
Knowing that they play a crucial role in promoting responsible alcohol service and contributing to a safer community can provide individuals with a sense of personal fulfilment and pride in their work.
This satisfaction derived from making a positive impact on others' well-being can be personally rewarding and fulfilling.
2) Community & Business Benefits of RSA
RSA training ensures compliance with laws and regulations related to the service of alcohol, reducing the risk of legal consequences such as fines or license suspensions.
Trained staff can identify and mitigate risks associated with alcohol service, including over consumption, underage drinking, and intoxication, thereby promoting a safer environment.
By promoting responsible alcohol service practices, staff trained with their RSA competency card can contribute to a positive and enjoyable experience for patrons, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
RSA training equips staff with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage challenging situations, reducing the liability of licensed venues in the event of alcohol-related incidents.
By preventing alcohol-related harm and promoting responsible drinking habits, RSA-trained staff contribute to the well-being of the local community, fostering a healthier and safer social environment.
3) Prevalence of Alcohol-Related Issues
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over one in four adults exceeded the Australian Adult Alcohol Guideline in 2022, with young adults aged 18-24 years exhibiting a particularly high rate of exceeding the guideline.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that alcohol contributes to thousands of hospitalisations and fatalities annually, spanning from physical injuries to anti-social behaviour and domestic disturbances.
Excessive alcohol consumption over time can contribute to the onset of chronic diseases and various serious health issues, such as:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Liver disease
- Digestive disorders
- Breast, mouth, throat, oesophagus, voice box, liver, colon, and rectum cancers.
4) The Crucial Role of RSA Training
RSA training equips alcohol servers with the skills to prevent over consumption and intoxication, thereby mitigating potential physical harm and violence.
By enforcing age restrictions, RSA ensures that alcoholic beverages are not served to individuals under 18, safeguarding them from the adverse effects of alcohol.
RSA compliance helps businesses avoid legal consequences such as fines, license suspensions, or imprisonment.
Responsible alcohol service not only upholds legal obligations but also safeguards the reputation of hospitality businesses, fostering consumer trust and loyalty.
5) Promoting Behavioural Changes
Training focuses on identifying early signs of intoxication, enabling proactive steps to protect individuals and maintain a safe environment.
RSA training provides servers with the essential skills to identify early signs of intoxication in patrons.
This includes recognising physical and behavioural cues such as slurred speech, unsteady movements, bloodshot eyes, and aggressive behaviour.
By being vigilant and observant, trained servers can detect signs of intoxication at its onset, allowing them to take proactive measures to prevent further alcohol service to affected individuals.
Prompt identification of intoxication helps maintain a safe and controlled environment within licensed premises, reducing the risk of alcohol-related incidents and ensuring the well-being of patrons and staff alike.
Servers are trained to recognise situations requiring service refusal and handle them diplomatically, minimising conflict while ensuring safety.
One of the key components of RSA training is equipping servers with the knowledge and techniques to effectively refuse service when necessary.
Servers undergo comprehensive training on recognising situations that warrant service refusal, such as when patrons display signs of intoxication or are underage.
Additionally, servers are trained in handling these situations diplomatically and professionally, minimising conflict while prioritising the safety of all individuals involved.
By confidently and respectfully refusing service, trained servers uphold legal obligations, mitigate potential risks, and contribute to a responsible drinking environment within licensed venues.
RSA advocates for practices such as encouraging water intake, offering food, and promoting safer transportation options, mitigating alcohol-related risks.
Servers are encouraged to advocate for practices such as encouraging patrons to drink water or non-alcoholic beverages between alcoholic drinks to stay hydrated and pace themselves.
Offering food options not only enhances the overall dining experience but also helps slow down alcohol absorption, reducing the likelihood of intoxication.
Furthermore, trained servers promote safer transportation options to patrons, such as designated driver programs or ride-sharing services, to prevent incidents related to drink driving.
By actively promoting these safe drinking practices, RSA-trained servers play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and safety of patrons, contributing to a positive and responsible drinking environment within licensed premises.
Why Choose CFT For Your RSA Online Training?
THE RTO THAT STILL CARES
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For over 25 years, CFT has grown into a premier provider of online Food Safety and RSA certificates, all while maintaining our identity as a family-run Registered Training Organisation (RTO) deeply committed to student care.
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You can complete your online training course in the privacy of your own home. It's easy and fun with our interactive e-learning content that lets you learn at whatever pace works best for you!
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