In the hospitality industry in Australia, possessing a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification is a requirement. While the regulations can differ between states and territories, the fundamentals remain the same—responsible alcohol service is crucial.
If you're considering obtaining your RSA certification, the Australian Institute of Food Safety offers an excellent, comprehensive course that meets the needs of multiple Australian states. In this article, we'll walk you through the detailed steps to get your RSA certification with the Australian Institute of Food Safety.
Step 1: Check State or Territory Requirements
Before beginning your educational journey, ensure that the RSA certification from the Australian Institute of Food Safety is recognised in the state or territory where you intend to work. This verification is crucial as each state and territory may have its own liquor licensing laws and training requirements. Currently, the AIFS RSA course is recognised in Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
Step 2: Visit the Australian Institute of Food Safety Website
Start by visiting the Australian Institute of Food Safety's official website. Here, navigate to the section focused on RSA training. The website provides a wealth of information about what the course entails, its duration and the accreditations it holds. This step helps you get acquainted with what to expect in your training.
Step 3: Enrol in the Course
You can enrol once you are satisfied with the course details and its applicability to your region. The enrolment process is simple, with a secure and user-friendly payment gateway on the website.
Step 4: Commence Your Online Training
One of the advantages of choosing the Australian Institute of Food Safety for your RSA certification is its flexibility. You can take your training online to fit it around your schedule. Whether you complete it in a day or over several weeks is entirely up to you. The course remains accessible for up to 12 months after enrolment.
Step 5: Cover Essential Topics
Your training will encompass a range of topics essential for responsible alcohol service. These include but are not limited to understanding liquor licensing laws, harm minimisation strategies, and how to identify and handle intoxicated patrons.
Step 6: Complete the Assessment
At the end of your training, you'll need to take an assessment to verify your understanding of the coursework. Conveniently, the Australian Institute of Food Safety offers a Virtual Video Assessment. This innovative feature eliminates the need for physical observers or a simulated workplace environment. All that is required is a device with a camera and microphone.
Step 7: Obtain Your Statement of Attainment
Upon successful completion of the assessment, you will receive a “Statement of Attainment.” Typically, this is processed and sent out within 48 hours, although expedited services are available.
Step 8: Apply for Your RSA Card/Certificate
While the Statement of Attainment proves that you have successfully completed the RSA course, some states require an additional RSA card or certificate. To obtain this, submit your Statement of Attainment and a fee to your state's relevant liquor licensing authority.
Step 9: Access Ongoing Support
The Australian Institute of Food Safety doesn't just leave you high and dry after your training. AIFS provides ongoing support from qualified trainers, aiding your continuous professional development.
Step 10: Periodic Updates & Refresher Courses
Depending on the state or territory, you may be required to update your RSA certification periodically. Remember: the course is recognised in Queensland, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. The Australian Institute of Food Safety also provides RSA Refresher courses, helping you stay informed of legislative changes or best practices.
Your Path to Responsible Alcohol Service Begins Here
Getting your Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certification is simple with the Australian Institute of Food Safety. Our comprehensive training, ongoing support, and state-specific guidelines ensure you are well-equipped for responsible alcohol service—a field with significant social and legal implications.
Embark on your path to becoming a certified professional in responsible alcohol service through the Australian Institute of Food Safety. With our in-depth training course, you are set on a path towards both compliance and competence.
