Serving alcohol in Victoria comes with great responsibility. Whether you are starting your first hospitality job or aiming to expand your skill set, understanding how to obtain a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) Certificate in Victoria is the first and most important step.
It is not only a legal requirement, but it also helps you ensure the safety and wellbeing of your customers and community.
In this blog, we will explain what the RSA Certificate is, why you need one and how you can get certified quickly and easily through the Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS). Whether you are a job seeker or currently working in a venue that serves alcohol, this guide will help you move forward with confidence.
Why do I need a Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate in Victoria?
Who needs a Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate in Victoria?
How do I get a Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate in Victoria?
How long does an RSA Certificate last in Victoria?
Why choose AIFS for your Victoria RSA Certificate?
Why do I need a Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate in Victoria?
A Victoria RSA certificate demonstrates to regulators, employers and customers that you have completed the necessary training to serve alcohol responsibly. It is designed to educate alcohol servers about the effects of alcohol, how to identify intoxicated or underage patrons, and how to comply with Victoria’s liquor laws.
In Victoria, the RSA certificate is mandatory for anyone involved in the supply, sale or service of alcohol — this includes bartenders, wait staff, security staff and bottle shop workers. Even those volunteering at licensed events are often required to hold a valid RSA Certificate.
Holding a RSA Certificate in Victoria is more than just a legal requirement. It equips hospitality workers with practical skills to:
- Recognise signs of intoxication.
- Refuse service safely and legally.
- Understand the risks associated with alcohol misuse.
- Protect the reputation of the business.
- Reduce the risk of alcohol-related harm in the community.
By completing RSA training, you contribute to a safer and more enjoyable environment for patrons while protecting yourself and your employer from fines or licence violations.
Who needs a Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate in Victoria?
If you are working in a licensed venue or applying for a role that involves serving alcohol, you likely need an RSA certificate. This includes:
- Bartenders.
- Wait staff in pubs, restaurants or clubs.
- Bottle shop attendants.
- Hotel and bar supervisors.
- Event staff at licensed functions.
- Security personnel working in venues where alcohol is served.
Employers often require job applicants to already hold an RSA certificate, which means getting certified before applying can give you a competitive advantage.
How do I get a Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate in Victoria?
Thanks to AIFS, getting your Victoria RSA certificate is simple, fast and flexible. Below are the four steps you need to follow.
1. Enrol in the AIFS RSA Course
AIFS offers a government-approved RSA course that meets all of Victoria’s legal requirements under the unit of competency SITHFAB021: Provide responsible service of alcohol.You can enrol online at any time, making it easy to fit into your schedule. The course covers all the essential knowledge and skills you need for responsible alcohol service in Victoria.
2. Complete your RSA training online
Unlike traditional classroom training, AIFS offers a streamlined online learning experience that allows you to study at your own pace — anytime, anywhere. The course features easy-to-follow lessons, real-world examples and clear instructions, making it suitable for learners of all backgrounds and experience levels.
If English is your second language, you’ll appreciate the use of plain language and the structured format designed to support your success.
There are 16 lessons to complete, along with the required assessment activities.
3. Successfully complete the assessment activities
Assessment activities are included to ensure learners have a solid understanding of responsible alcohol service and can apply their knowledge in practical settings.
To earn certification, you must complete the following activities:
- Lesson Quizzes: Answer a set of multiple-choice questions designed to test your understanding of the key concepts covered in each lesson.
- Case Studies: Review the case study provided and respond to multiple-choice questions designed to assess your knowledge of the scenario.
- Reading Activity: Read the assigned document and complete the questions that follow.
- Final Exam: To receive an RSA Certificate in Victoria, you must pass a final exam with 20 multiple-choice questions. A final score of 100% is required, with up to three attempts allowed.
- Virtual Video Assessment: Record a video of yourself acting out real-life alcohol service situations to show that you can serve alcohol safely and legally.
5. Receive your RSA Certificate
After successfully completing the course AIFS will issue you with a Liquor Control Victoria (LCV) Certificate of Completion via email. This is the equivalent of a RSA Certificate in Victoria and permits you to supply, sell or serve alcohol in all licensed venues throughout the state.
How long does an RSA Certificate last in Victoria?
Your Victoria RSA Certificate (LCV Certificate of Completion) is valid for 3 years. Certificate renewal requires you to undertake a RSA refresher course through LCV before your current RSA Certificate expires.
How does the Victoria RSA Course compare with other states and territories?
AIFS provides government-approved RSA training across most of Australia, including Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory.
The RSA course in Victoria is different from those delivered in other states and territories. Key differences include:
- Final exam: The Victoria RSA Course includes an online exam
- Practical skills assessment: Instead of submitting an Observer Report, you are required to complete a Virtual Video Assessment.
- Certification type: In Victoria, you must obtain an LCV Certificate of Completion.
Why choose AIFS for your Victoria RSA Certificate?
Choosing AIFS means you are learning from one of Australia’s most trusted food safety and alcohol service training providers. With thousands of hospitality professionals trained each year, AIFS offers:
- Government-approved RSA course.
- Easy online enrolment and learning platform.
- Qualified trainer support.
- Digital certificate delivery.
Whether you are new to hospitality or returning to the industry, AIFS provides the tools you need to succeed and stay compliant.
When will the Victoria RSA Course be available?
The hospitality industry in Victoria is full of opportunity, but it also comes with responsibilities. By obtaining your responsible service of alcohol certificate in Victoria, you demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to safety.
Be the first to know when the Victoria RSA Course launches. Join the waiting list today and receive an exclusive discount code when the course goes live!
