Those that will be making same-day alcohol deliveries to retail customers within New South Wales will be required to hold a valid RSAT certificate. This essential qualification not only ensures you are serving responsibly but also keeps you on the right side of the law. This guide on how to get an RSAT certificate will walk you through everything you need to know about the RSAT certificate, why it’s important, and how to secure it so you can start a career involving alcohol delivery.
What is an RSAT certificate?
RSAT stands for Responsible Supply of Alcohol Training. The RSAT certificate is a mandatory requirement of NSW same-day delivery providers, NSW drivers who make same-day deliveries, and relevant delivery agents making same-day alcohol deliveries. It’s designed to help ensure that alcohol is delivered responsibly. This certificate forms part of a broader responsibility initiative to ensure that applicable parties understand the rules and risks of alcohol service. Currently, the RSAT certificate is mandatory only in New South Wales.
Who needs an RSAT certificate?
As stated above, an RSAT certificate is required by delivery agents, same-day delivery providers, and additional drivers making same-day deliveries in New South Wales. This means within the state, if you’re choosing to deliver alcohol as part of an app service such as Uber Eats, you’ll be required to hold an RSAT certificate. Those who will be required to hold a valid NSW RSAT certificate may include:
- Uber Eats/Door Dash delivery drivers delivering alcohol
- Same-day alcohol delivery providers
- Any individual making a same-day alcohol delivery
- Delivery agents
- Independent contractors delivering alcohol on behalf of liquor stores or bottle shops
If you’re planning on delivering alcohol as part of an app or service, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the regulations and requirements in your state or territory.
When is an RSAT not needed?
It’s generally a good idea to err on the side of caution. If you believe you need an RSAT, it’s best to apply for one and ensure that you comply with all the necessary regulations. However, there are some instances where an RSAT may not be needed when the business only offers same-day delivery of:
- Packaged alcohol being delivered to another licensed business
- Less than 1.5 litres of packaged alcohol in a food hamper, picnic basket, or gift hamper (such as a Christmas food hamper that also includes wine)
In these cases, the business may not need to obtain a RSAT as long as they comply with all other licensing and regulatory requirements. However, it’s important to note that this exemption may vary depending on other factors. It’s always best to consult with your local alcohol control authority for specific regulations regarding same-day delivery of packaged alcohol.
If I have an RSA do I still need an RSAT?
Yes. While a similar concept, the RSAT and RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) are different courses that serve different purposes. The RSAT is made for those involved in same-day alcohol delivery, and the RSA is made for those involved in the sale and service of alcohol. If you’re working in a bar, you likely won’t be required to obtain an RSAT. However, some delivery roles may require you to also hold a valid RSA. Check with your employer and local liquor licensing laws to determine if you need both certifications.
What is covered in the RSAT course?
The RSAT course covers a number of topics pertaining to responsible alcohol delivery. These topics include:
- The meaning and purpose of the RSAT
- Why the RSAT is important
- Strategies for harm minimisation
- NSW liquor laws and how they impact delivery drivers
- How to recognise intoxication
- How to refuse the supply of alcohol, responsibly
- ID checking and secondary supply in relation to minor laws
- Compliance and enforcement
How to get an RSAT certificate in NSW
Getting your RSAT certificate in NSW involves a few steps, but the process is relatively straightforward and simple.
Step 1: Choose an approved training provider
The first step is selecting a training organisation to complete your RSAT certificate through. For this, you can either complete the course on the TAFE NSW learning platform with Liquor & Gaming NSW, through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) such as Express Online Training, or a delivery agent/same-day delivery provider that offers the training. Many providers offer flexibility through online courses, allowing you to complete the course from home. Look for providers with good reviews, or ask for recommendations from friends and colleagues who have completed the course.
Step 2: Complete the course
Once you’ve enrolled, you’ll need to complete the RSAT course, which typically covers. The course can usually be completed in one day for a face-to-face session or over a few hours online. Completing the course will give you a Certificate of Attendance.
Step 3: Pass the Assessment
At the end of the course, you’ll need to pass the mandatory RSAT online assessment provided by Liquor & Gaming NSW. The online assessment takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. This assessment can be paused and resumed as required, and you’ll have six months from the start to complete it. The RSAT assessment consists of 12 randomised questions, and you must score 100% in order to pass. You will have three attempts to pass the assessment, after which time you’ll need to purchase the assessment again.
Step 4: Receive your RSAT certificate
Upon successful completion of the approved training, you’ll receive your RSAT certificate. This certificate serves as evidence of your compliance with the RSAT requirements and is valid for five years. At this time, you’ll need to renew your certificate by completing the training and assessment again.
How much does an RSAT course cost?
The cost of an RSAT course varies slightly depending on the provider you choose. For example, as of April 2025, Express Online Training offers the RSAT certificate online for $25. This includes locally-based support 7 days a week for if you have any questions. You’ll also be required to purchase the RSAT Assessment through Liquor & Gaming NSW, which is an additional $18.
How long is an RSAT valid for?
Once you’ve successfully completed your RSAT course, your RSAT certificate will be valid for five years. In order to renew your RSAT certificate, you’ll need to repurchase and complete both the RSAT course and the Liquor & Gaming NSW RSAT assessment before the expiration date. If you let your certificate lapse without retaking the course and assessment, you’ll no longer be able to complete same-day alcohol deliveries. Some employers may require a valid RSAT certificate as a condition of employment, so it’s important to keep your certification up-to-date.
How can I prepare for the RSAT course?
Before attending the RSAT course, it may be helpful to familiarise yourself with responsible service of alcohol practices and regulations in NSW. This can include reading government resources such as the Liquor & Gaming NSW website. However, in saying this, all the content you’ll need to know will be contained within the course, so you don’t need any prior learning before beginning the RSAT course.
Why choose Express Online Training for your RSAT course?
There are many reasons to choose Express Online Training as your RSAT certificate provider. Express Online Training is an RTO that provides fully-qualified, locally-based support 7 days a week, including until late on weekdays. Our course is built for mobile devices, making it perfect for completing on a mobile or tablet. Stop and resume the course as needed, fitting it around your busy schedule.
With Express Online Training, you only need to pay once you’ve completed the RSAT webinar, plus, we offer Afterpay for making 4 interest-free payments, instead of one lump sum amount. We also have an RSAT NSW + RSA NSW bundle, allowing you to undertake both qualifications at a discounted price.
Getting your RSAT certificate is an essential step for those pursuing a career that involves same-day alcohol delivery. It’s not just about following the law, it’s also about ensuring that you’re prepared to handle the responsibilities that come with delivering alcohol in NSW.
With just a day or two of training, you’ll be on your way to starting your exciting new career!