About RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) Training
CTA Training Specialists offers a different RSA course for each state.
The course covers the content of the nationally recognised Unit of Competency SITHFAB021 – Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol and provides additional information about local laws and regulations that might affect those working with alcohol.
RSA Course Duration and Delivery
The course takes approximately 6 hours and can be completed in one setting. However, CTA offers students up to 3 months to complete the course.
The course is delivered online through CTA’s learning management system (LMS).
The assessment has both online and practical aspects. To successfully complete the course, students must upload video recordings of how they will use their learning in real-world situations.
Same-Day RSA Certificates
Students who upload all their assessments before 4 pm AEST on a business day will have their assessments marked and, if deemed competent, their Statement of Attainment (SOA) issued on the same day.
While we aim to send all certificates (SOA) on the same day, occasionally, there can be delays of up to 2 business days, especially around Public Holidays. For more information, please contact our support team via live chat or by calling us on 07 3878 8977. We are unable to issue your SOA without your USI number.
To ensure there are no delays, please submit your USI prior to submitting your final assessment. You can do this via the LMS, live chat, phone or by emailing us at [email protected].
If you don’t have a USI, you can get one here.
Your USI Number
We are unable to issue your SOA without your USI number. To ensure there are no delays, please submit your USI prior to submitting your final assessment. You can do this via the LMS, live chat, phone or by emailing us at [email protected].
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Course Outcome
Once deemed competent, CTA will issue you an official Statement of Attainment.
- In QLD, WA, SA, and NT, this statement of attainment is also your official RSA Certificate.
- In NSW, students will also receive an official Interim Certificate. This Interim Certificate is valid for 90 days and can be used to acquire your RSA Competency Card from your local NSW Services Centre.
- In VIC, course completers will also receive an RSA Certificate of Completion from Liquor Control Victoria.
We recommend you provide a copy of your Statement of Attainment/interim Certificate to your employer and keep a digital version (photo or pdf copy) of the same on you when working in and around alcohol.
Key RSA Learning Outcomes
The course aims to teach individuals how to responsibly service alcohol to ensure the safety of all patrons, staff and the venue.
Through the course, you will learn the following:
- Follow the principles of responsible service of alcohol.
- Assist customers in drinking within appropriate limits.
- Assess alcohol-affected customers and identify those to whom sale or service must be refused.
- Refuse to provide alcohol.

Who Requires RSA Training and Certificates?
RSA is required for a wide range of professionals in the hospitality sector, including but not limited:
- Bartenders and bar staff
- Waitstaff in restaurants and cafes
- Security personnel at venues serving alcohol (in some states)
- Licensees and managers of licensed premises
- Promotional staff involved in alcohol sales and service
This certification is essential for ensuring that alcohol is served responsibly, minimising the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption, and maintaining a safe and legal operational environment within licensed premises.
Additionally, the certification aligns with the varying legal frameworks across different states and territories, promoting a standardised approach to responsible alcohol service nationwide.
Importance of RSA Training
RSA training is critical for several reasons:
RSA training helps to mitigate the risks associated with alcohol consumption, such as accidents, injuries, and violent incidents. By equipping staff with the skills to recognise and manage intoxicated customers, RSA training contributes to a safer environment for both patrons and the community.
Compliance with state and territory liquor licensing laws is mandatory for businesses serving alcohol. RSA training ensures that employees understand and adhere to these regulations, thereby reducing the risk of legal penalties and fines for the establishment.
RSA training promotes a culture of responsible drinking by educating staff on how to serve alcohol in a way that minimises harm. This includes offering alternative beverages, serving standard drinks, and intervening when customers show signs of intoxication.
Employees who have undergone RSA training are better equipped to handle difficult situations, such as refusing service to intoxicated customers, with professionalism and confidence. This enhances the overall customer experience and upholds the reputation of the establishment.
By ensuring that staff are trained to manage alcohol service responsibly, businesses can reduce their liability in the event of incidents related to alcohol consumption. Proper training helps to demonstrate due diligence in providing a safe environment for customers.
RSA training contributes to the broader goal of community well-being by addressing the social issues related to alcohol abuse. Trained staff can play a vital role in preventing alcohol-related harm, supporting public health initiatives, and promoting safe consumption practices.
Overall, RSA training is the cornerstone of responsible alcohol service, providing the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure that alcohol is served safely and legally. This training not only protects the business and its staff but also enhances the safety and well-being of the community.
Additional Information
The current nationally recognised unit of competency for RSA is SITHFAB021 – Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol.
It is equivalent and supersedes SITHFAB002
A USI number. If you don’t have one, you can get one here.
A unique email address that has not been used to complete the course previously
A suitable device with a strong internet connection to do the course.
Access to a recording device to record the practical aspects of the assessments.
The course takes approximately 6 hours and can be completed in one setting. However, CTA offers students up to 3 months to complete the course. If you require an extension, please email us at [email protected]