Those that have looked into delivering alcohol in New South Wales (whether through a delivery app or as part of a job), have probably heard of the RSAT certificate. Often, you cannot proceed without having one.
But what is an RSAT certificate? Do you really need it? How long is the RSAT course? And how much does an RSAT cost?
This guide will explain everything you need to know about the RSAT certification.
What does RSAT stand for?
RSAT stands for Responsible Supply of Alcohol Training. This short course was introduced to improve safety and reduce alcohol-related harm for those delivering and receiving alcohol.
What is an RSAT certificate?
As online alcohol sales and delivery services have become more common, the RSAT has been created to help ensure that anyone involved in the same-day delivery of alcohol understands the law and their responsibilities.
This course typically focuses on situations where alcohol is ordered online or by phone (without face-to-face service), and delivered the same day. Of course, this is different from bar work or working in a liquor store. The RSAT course teaches delivery drivers and businesses how to manage risks such as delivering to minors and intoxicated people, plus people ordering alcohol on behalf of others.
What is an RSAT needed for?
As mentioned above, an RSAT is required for anyone in NSW that’s involved in same-day alcohol delivery. This includes:
- People who work for third-party delivery platforms such as Uber Eats
- People who deliver alcohol that’s been ordered online
- People who work for alcohol retailers that offer same-day alcohol delivery
- People who handle the dispatch or fulfilment of online alcohol orders.
The RSAT certificate training is designed to make sure that alcohol is supplied responsibly, even in situations where the customer doesn’t enter the shop.
Do you need an RSAT for Uber Eats or delivery apps?
In New South Wales, when delivering alcohol the answer is yes. If you deliver alcohol through platforms such as Uber Eats or DoorDash, you’ll need to obtain an RSAT certificate. In fact, many delivery platforms require drivers to show proof of a completed RSAT before the driver can accept alcohol delivery orders. Having this certificate protects the platform and the driver by ensuring legal compliance.
Who doesn’t need an RSAT in NSW?
While an RSAT is a requirement for those completing same-day alcohol deliveries in NSW, there are a few circumstances where it isn’t required. This includes:
- Businesses that sell or supply same-day packaged alcohol to other licensed businesses
- Situations where less than 1.5L of package alcohol is delivered same-day in a food hamper such as a picnic basket or gift hamper.
If you’re unsure whether your circumstances require you to have an RSAT, check with your employer.
Are RSA and RSAT different?
Yes, RSA and RSAT are completely different certificates from each other. With similar acronyms, there can be a little bit of confusion between the two.
To break it down, an RSA is required if you:
- Serve alcohol in a bar, pub, restaurant, event, or club
- Work in a bottle shop
- Work in an adjacent role in a premises that sells or supplies alcohol, such as a security guard.
An RSAT is required if you:
- Supply or deliver alcohol that has been ordered that day
- Supply or deliver alcohol that has been supplied without face-to-face interaction
- Are involved in the dispatch or fulfilment of same-day alcohol orders.
If you work in an alcohol supply role, you may be required to obtain both an RSA and an RSAT certificate. Check with your employer or delivery platform to see what the requirements are.
Can I complete an RSAT course online?
Yes, the RSAT course from NSW Liquor & Gaming can be completed fully online through an approved course provider such as Express Online Training. To complete your RSAT NSW Online Course, enrol online, complete the self-paced learning modules, and pass any short assessments required to prove your understanding. Once you’ve successfully completed the RSAT certificate online, you’ll receive your official NSW RSAT certificate.
How long does it take to get an RSAT?
The RSAT course is designed to be quick to complete. It should typically take you around 1 to 2 hours to finish the RSAT course. This course is fully online, meaning you can study at times that best suit you through self-paced learning. Many people can complete the course in a single sitting, however, providers like Express Online Training allow students to pause and resume the course as needed, letting you complete it over a number of days or weeks. Once you’ve completed the RSAT certificate, you’ll be provided with a digital RSAT certificate that you can then present to your employer or upload to your delivery app.
How much does an RSAT certificate cost?
As a short course, the RSAT certificate is typically affordable. Express Online Training provides the RSAT NSW Online Course for $35. There’s also the option of Afterpay for eligible students, meaning the course can be paid in four interest-free installments.
Is an RSAT required in all Australian states and territories?
No, currently, the RSAT is only required for those doing same-day alcohol deliveries in NSW. However, alcohol laws have a tendency to change frequently, so always check local liquor licensing requirements when you begin a new role in the industry.
Is the RSAT course hard to pass?
No, an RSAT course isn’t particularly difficult to complete. It’s designed to be studied by beginners, without the need of any prior knowledge in hospitality or liquor licensing. Everything you’ll need to know for the RSAT course is taught within the RSAT course. Express Online Training also offers locally-based support, 7 days a week for if you have any questions about your study.
Why choose Express Online Training for your RSAT certificate?
Express Online Traing provides a simple and reliable training experience for your RSAT certification. The course is designed to be studied fully online and at your own pace, meaning you can complete your RSAT from anywhere that has an internet connection, and at times that best suit your schedule. This makes it perfect for students, parents, full-time workers, or anyone with a busy schedule. Our focus is on providing clear learning modules and quick certificate delivery upon completion. Our RSAT course can be paused and resumed at any time, and has automatic saving, allowing you to move between phone, tablet, and computer, as needed.You won’t need headphones or speakers for this course, and there are no hidden costs. We offer the RSAT NSW Online Course for $35, with the option of Afterpay for eligible students.
We hope you’ve enjoyed learning a little more about the RSAT certificate. The RSAT is mandatory for those completing same-day alcohol delivery in New South Wales. Many people are turning to gig work for extra income, so if this is you, you may wish to get a head start and complete your RSAT course early.