For any business in Western Australia serving alcohol, ensuring that your staff are properly trained in Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) and Approved Manager requirements is not just recommended — it’s a legal necessity.
If you operate a licensed venue, whether it’s a small bar, a restaurant, or a large resort, at least one person on duty must hold an Approved Manager certification. This is a mandatory requirement under the Liquor Control Act 1988 and applies to anyone in charge of managing or supervising the sale and service of alcohol at licensed premises.
What does the course cover?
The Australian Hotels Association (WA) offers an Approved Manager qualification, also known as the MLP1 (Manage Licensed Premises) course, which is nationally accredited and tailored to meet the specific needs of WA’s hospitality industry.
The course is online and flexible, allowing staff to complete the training at their own pace, and is suitable for both new managers and existing staff who need to update their certification.
It designed to ensure that those in managerial roles are equipped with the knowledge and skills to comply with WA’s liquor laws. The course covers essential topics, including:
- Understanding WA’s liquor licensing laws and regulations
- The responsibilities of an Approved Manager in a licensed venue
- How to manage staff effectively, ensuring compliance with the law
- Dealing with challenging situations, including intoxicated patrons and underage drinking
- The importance of maintaining a safe and responsible environment for patrons and staff
What are the benefits of doing the course?
In addition to ensuring that your business remains compliant with WA’s liquor laws, this training also provides valuable leadership skills for your management team. Having more than one Approved Manager in place helps spread the responsibility and reduces the risk of non-compliance, which could lead to fines or the suspension of your licence.
Employers who fail to meet these requirements face significant penalties. Operating without a certified Approved Manager on duty can lead to fines for both the individual and the venue itself. If your business is found to be non-compliant, it could also affect your liquor license and the ability to trade legally.
It’s crucial for all licensed venues to ensure their managers meet the Approved Manager requirement. By investing in this training, businesses help protect their operations, patrons and staff, all while maintaining compliance with WA’s liquor laws.
What about the RSA?
The RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) requirement is another key element of WA’s liquor laws. All staff involved in the sale, supply, or service of alcohol must complete RSA training before beginning work. This training is designed to equip employees with the knowledge to serve alcohol responsibly and legally, helping to reduce alcohol-related harm in the community.
RSA training covers important areas such as checking ID, recognising signs of intoxication, refusing service appropriately, and understanding the risks associated with alcohol consumption. It also outlines the legal responsibilities of individuals and venues, ensuring staff understand their role in maintaining a safe environment.
Like the Approved Manager course, RSA training is mandatory and non-compliance can result in penalties for both the staff member and the business.
More information
- For details on training courses and registration, visit the Australian Hotels Association (WA) website.
- For more information on liquor licensing regulations and the role of Approved Managers, visit the WA Government’s liquor licensing page.