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If you want to serve alcohol legally in Queensland (QLD), you must hold a current RSA certificate with the unit of competency SITHFAB021 - Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol. RSA Queensland online training that is state-approved is the most convenient and cost effective way to meet this requirement.
The Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS) delivers an RSA course that meets the requirements of the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR). It teaches you all about responsible alcohol service, including how to prevent intoxication and how to refuse service safely. Once completed, you receive a Statement of Attainment accepted at all venues across Queensland.
The importance of Queensland RSA training
Who needs RSA Queensland certification?
Does RSA Queensland expire or need renewal?
Can I use a NSW RSA in QLD?
How to get RSA Queensland certification online (step by step)
The importance of Queensland RSA training
RSA training is mandatory for anyone involved in the sale, service or supply of alcohol in licensed venues across Queensland.
The AIFS RSA Course ensures individuals are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to serve alcohol responsibly, prevent intoxication and minimise harm to patrons, staff and the community. Employers and regulators rely on RSA certification as proof that staff understand their legal obligations under Queensland liquor laws.
Who needs RSA Queensland certification?
RSA Queensland certification is required for a wide range of roles within hospitality and event venues. You will usually need RSA training if you work as a:
- Bartender, barista or waitstaff in licensed venues
- Bottle shop or liquor retail staff
- Security staff and supervisors
- Event and catering workers
- Hospitality managers and venue owners
Volunteers at community events may also need RSA training if alcohol is sold or supplied. Requirements can vary depending on the venue and licence type, so it is important to check with your employer, volunteer organisation or local liquor authority if you are unsure.
Does RSA Queensland expire or need renewal?
RSA renewal rules vary by state. In Queensland, RSA certification does not currently have a set expiry date, but refresher training may be required by employers or regulators if laws change or if you have been out of the industry for some time.
This differs from states like Victoria, where RSA renewal is mandatory. If you plan to work across multiple states, it is important to understand local renewal rules before starting a role. Always check current requirements with the relevant liquor authority, as regulations can change.
| Requirement | Additional Notes | |
| Who needs RSA QLD | Anyone who sells, serves or supplies alcohol in licensed venues in Queensland | Mandatory under Queensland liquor laws |
| Common roles | Required for bartenders, baristas, waitstaff, bottle shop staff, security, event workers, managers, owners | Applies across hospitality, retail and event venues |
| Volunteers | May be required if alcohol is sold or supplied at community events | Depends on venue and licence type |
| Expiry / renewal | No set expiry date in Queensland | Refreshers may be required if laws change or after time out of industry |
Can I use a NSW RSA in QLD?
This is a common question for workers moving between states. In most cases, you cannot automatically use a NSW RSA in QLD. While the unit of competency attained in RSA training is nationally recognised, each state and territory has its own liquor authority and may have additional requirements that must be met for certification to be recognised.
It is recommended that you contact your state liquor authority to confirm certificate validity if using an RSA certificate that was completed in another state or territory to ensure it meets requirements.
For a full comparison, see this guide on state-by-state RSA training requirements across Australia.
Tip: Always confirm requirements with the venue or Queensland’s liquor regulator before relying on an interstate RSA.
How to get RSA Queensland certification online
Completing the AIFS certification process for RSA Queensland online is straightforward and designed to fit around work and study commitments.
Step 1: Enrol in the RSA course
Start by enrolling in the AIFS RSA course. Once enrolled, you will have 24/7 access to a secure online learning portal and can begin immediately. Online course delivery allows you to study anywhere, at any time, without needing to attend a classroom.
Step 2: Complete the online learning
The online Responsible Service of Alcohol course is broken into short, easy-to-follow lessons that cover essential RSA knowledge, including:
- Legal obligations when serving alcohol
- Recognising signs of intoxication
- Refusing service safely and respectfully
- The impact of alcohol on individuals and the community
- Standard drink measures
Each lesson includes a short quiz to check your understanding before moving on. You can progress at your own pace, with up to 12 months to complete the course.
Step 3: Complete the assessment activities
To demonstrate competency, you will complete assessment activities, including:
- Case studies based on real hospitality scenarios
- Reading activities focused on workplace policies and safe service practices
- Practical assessment, which may be completed via Video Submission or an Observer Report if you have recent industry experience
A qualified assessor then reviews your assessment to ensure it meets national and state requirements.
Step 4: Receive your Statement of Attainment
Once all learning and assessment tasks are completed successfully, you receive your RSA Statement of Attainment for the unit SITHFAB021 – Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol. This document is your proof of certification and can be presented to employers or inspectors in Queensland.
Why choose online Queensland RSA training?
Completing RSA Queensland online offers practical advantages, especially for job seekers and hospitality workers:
- Flexible study that fits around shifts and personal commitments
- Fast completion, often within a single day
- Nationally recognised training accepted by employers
- Immediate access to certification once assessments are satisfactory
Online training is particularly useful if you need RSA certification quickly to start a new job.
Get your RSA Queensland certification online today
Completing your RSA Queensland certification online gives you a flexible and efficient way to prepare for work in the hospitality industry. Study at your own pace around shifts and personal commitments, with many learners finishing in as little as one day.
The nationally recognised training is accepted by employers across Queensland, and once your assessments are deemed satisfactory, you’ll receive immediate access to your digital Statement of Attainment so you can start work sooner.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I transfer my RSA from another state to QLD?
A. Although the unit of competency the RSA course provides is nationally recognised, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can transfer your certification. This is because each state and territory has specific requirements that must be met. It is recommended to contact your local liquor authority to confirm certificate validity.
Q. How long does QLD RSA training take?
A. Most participants finish the course in just a few hours, but you have up to 12 months to complete the course.
Q. Do I need to renew my RSA certification in Queensland?
A. While RSA certification completed after 2002 in QLD does not expire, regular refresher courses are recommended to ensure you are up to date with current legislative changes and requirements.
Q. Which unit of competency do I receive for completing the QLD RSA course?
A. You receive SITHFAB021 - Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol upon successful completion of the course.
Q. Is there any way to fast track my RSA certification?
A. AIFS offers an express certification option for the RSA course that can be purchased at checkout. Express certification ensures your submission is prioritised by the assessment team.
