So, you’re thinking about pulling pints and mixing cocktails as a bartender? Well, you’re in luck — being a bartender is a fun, fast-paced job that can teach you plenty of life skills and serve up some great tips (literally!)
But don’t think of bartending as just a temporary gig — it can be a fully-fledged hospitality career with plenty of opportunities for advancement. Many bartenders go on to become hospitality managers, event coordinators, or even bar owners after gaining years of experience.
Here’s what you need to know to get started behind the bar in Western Australia.
GET YOUR RSA
In Western Australia, bartenders must hold a current RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate, which proves you know how to serve alcohol responsibly. The good news is it’s quick and easy to get, and it’ll teach you how to spot signs of intoxication and handle a variety of situations with patrons. The Australian Hotels Association of Western Australia is a nationally accredited training provider of the RSA, which you can do online in a matter of hours. Check out the AHA(WA) website for more information.
KNOW YOUR DRINK MENU
Whether you’re shaking up a classic Mojito or pouring a cold pint of local craft beer, it’s important to know your drinks inside and out. If you’re working in a cocktail bar, you’ll need to learn how to mix the basics — such as Martini, Margarita, and Old Fashioned — and get to grips with the spirit menu so you can pour a perfect ice-cold G&T, for instance.
If you’re working at a pub, make sure you can recommend a few good local brews and can tell your pale ales from your lagers. A basic knowledge of wine, including those produced in WA’s very own Margaret River, and the difference between sweet, dry and oaked, is also key.
DEVELOP YOUR SPEED AND MULTI-TASKING SKILLS
Bartending isn’t a slow-paced job. On busy shifts, you’ll be multitasking like a pro: mixing drinks, chatting with customers, taking orders and keeping everything clean. Being quick without sacrificing quality is a skill you’ll develop over time, and as you gain experience, you’ll have the chance to move up into more senior roles, such as bar supervisor or manager. And don’t worry, you’ll learn to handle the rush — just keep calm and shake (don’t stir) through it!
BE GOOD AT SMALL TALK
Bartending is about more than just drinks — it’s about reading the room. Gauge whether your customers want a chat or just a quick refill and adjust your vibe accordingly.
Great bartenders are not only skilled drink makers but also great listeners. A friendly attitude and a sense of humour help, but you don’t need to be the life of the party. Confidence in your skills and making customers feel welcome are key.
So, if you’re looking to start a career that’s social, dynamic and full of opportunities (plus a few perks, like meeting new people), bartending in WA’s hospitality industry might just be your ticket to success. Just remember to always keep your glass half full, your spirits high and your customers smiling.