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?
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:
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.
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:
Employers often require job applicants to already hold an RSA certificate, which means getting certified before applying can give you a competitive advantage.
Thanks to AIFS, getting your Victoria RSA certificate is simple, fast and flexible. Below are the four steps you need to follow.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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:
Whether you are new to hospitality or returning to the industry, AIFS provides the tools you need to succeed and stay compliant.
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!