Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: Do I need an RSA certificate to work in Canberra?
Answer: Yes, anyone serving or supplying alcohol in the ACT, must have completed RSA training from an approved training provider such as Access Recognised Training Australia.

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Question: How long does it usually take to complete the ACT-approved RSA course?
Answer: The ACT-approved RSA course typically takes around 3.5 hours to complete, although the exact duration may vary depending on each student’s pace and progress through the course.

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Question: Can I complete the course on a phone or tablet?
Answer: Yes, you can. However, the course has been optimised for desktop use. As a result, you may find that using a smartphone or tablet provides a less user-friendly experience, particularly for activities that require a larger screen.

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Question: Once I complete the ACT-approved RSA course, how long does it take to receive the certificate?
Answer: Our assessors mark courses within 48 hours of your assessment being lodged. In most cases, you will receive your certificate within 72 hours of lodgement providing you have met all the assessment requirements . Please allow additional time for weekends and public holidays.

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Question: Am I required to upload videos of myself refusing service or preparing standard drinks?
Answer: No video uploads are required. The Access course includes a series of videos for you to watch and then provide advice on how you would respond. It also features an integrated virtual standard drink exercise.

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Question: How much time do I have to complete the course once I commence it?
Answer: You must complete the course within 12 months of your enrolment date. If it is not completed within this timeframe, your enrolment will be cancelled.

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Question: When I commence the course, do I have to complete it in one sitting?
Answer: No. You can log in and out of the course as often as you like. When you return, you will be automatically taken back to the point where you left off.

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Question: I have an interstate RSA certificate/competency card, is it valid in the ACT?
Answer: Yes, but only under certain conditions. The ACT will recognise an interstate RSA certificate if:​

• It was issued by a registered training organisation approved under that state or territory’s liquor laws;

• It states that you satisfactorily completed an RSA course, including the date of completion and expiry;

• The course covered the responsible service of alcohol; and

• The certificate/competency card is less than three years old from the date of completion (regardless of how long it is valid in the issuing state). 
   

If your interstate RSA certificate/competency card is older than three years (or approaching that time), you will need to complete an ACT-approved RSA Refresher course with a provider such as Access Recognised Training Australia.

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Still unsure about the validity of your interstate RSA certificate or competency card? Please send us an e-copy using our Contact page and upload portal and we will review it for you.  

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Question: How long is an RSA certificate valid in the ACT?
Answer: RSA must be refreshed every 3 years in the ACT through an ACT-approved training provider such as Access Recognised Training Australia. 

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Question: Is the ACT-approved RSA Refresher course valid in other states and territories?
Answer: No. The ACT-approved RSA Refresher course is specific to the ACT and is not nationally recognised. As a result, it will not appear on your VET Transcript and cannot be used to meet RSA requirements in other states or territories.

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Question: My ACT approved or interstate issued RSA certificate has expired. Can I still complete the RSA Refresher course in the ACT?
Answer: Yes, you can complete the RSA Refresher course as long as your previous RSA certificate expired less than three years ago. If it has been three years or more since expiry, you’ll need to complete the full RSA course with an approved provider such as Access Recognised Training Australia.

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Question: Can I complete my RSA training online for the ACT?

Answer: Yes, you can complete the RSA training online in the ACT,  providing it is delivered by an approved training provider. Access Recognised Training Australia is the only ACT-approved Canberra-based provider of online RSA training. 
 

Question: Can I complete the RSA course with Access Recognised Training Australia in person instead of online?
Answer: Access Recognised Training Australia delivers RSA training primarily online. In-person (face-to-face) courses are available, however, they are only accepted via group bookings with a minimum of 10 participants. Please use the Contact page to register your interest in booking a group ACT-approved RSA training course. 

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Question: Can you deliver face-to-face RSA courses at my ACT school or workplace? 

Answer: Yes, Access Recognised Training Australia regularly undertakes RSA courses at ACT schools for year 9 - 12 students and workplaces. Please use the Contact page to register your interest in booking a group face-to-face RSA training course.   

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Question: How do I renew or refresh my RSA certificate in the ACT?
Answer: Complete Access Recognised Training Australia’s ACT-approved online RSA Refresher course before your current certificate expires.
 

Question: Can I enrol in RSA training in the ACT if I’m under 18 years of age?

Answer: Yes, you can. Access Recognised Training Australia permits students as young as 14 years old to complete RSA training and receive their certificate, provided they meet the course requirements.

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Question: Can I work in a bar in Canberra if I am under 18 years of age?

Answer: Yes, you can legally work in a bar in the ACT if you’re under 18, however, your duties are strictly limited and must not involve the sale, service, or supply of alcohol. You may, however:​​​

• Perform bar support tasks such as cleaning, restocking products and glassware, and refilling ice etc.
   

• Serve alcohol to tables in a restaurant or function centre, provided that:

  • The alcohol was prepared by someone aged 18 or older;

  • You hold a valid RSA certificate; 

  • They are supervised by someone aged 18 years or older; and

  • All work must comply with ACT liquor laws and your employer’s policies.

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Question: Can I work in a bottle shop or supermarket in Canberra and sell or supply alcohol if I’m under 18 years of age?
Answer: Yes. If you are legally old enough to work, you may sell or supply alcohol in a retail setting provided you hold a valid RSA certificate. You must also comply with all relevant RSA obligations, including checking ID and refusing service to minors or intoxicated persons.

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Question: What is the difference between RSA certificates in NSW and ACT?
Answer: NSW RSA includes a five-year competency card system, while the ACT requires refresher training every three years and does not have a competency card system. In the ACT you must provide your valid RSA certificate to your employer who will keep it on file.

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Question: I live in Canberra and plan to serve alcohol in NSW from time-to-time. Do I need to complete the NSW-approved RSA training?
Answer:  Not necessarily. If you hold a valid ACT RSA certificate that includes the national unit of competency SITHFAB021 Provide responsible service of alcohol, and you do not live permanently in NSW, you can work in most roles without completing additional NSW RSA training.

However, you must:

• Be able to show evidence of your RSA qualification when asked

• Understand and comply with NSW liquor laws, which may differ from those in the ACT

If you are working in Security or RSA Marshal roles in NSW, you are required to:

• Complete the NSW RSA Bridging Course, and

• Hold a valid NSW Competency Card with RSA endorsement

 

You may also choose to complete the bridging course voluntarily to familiarise yourself with NSW-specific laws regarding refusal of service, signage requirements, and harm minimisation strategies.

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Question: What personal identification do I need to provide to undertake RSA training in the ACT?
Answer: You will need to provide at least one form of government-issued photo ID. Access Recognised Training Australia accepts driver’s licences, passports, Australia Post Keypass ID cards, proof of identity cards.   

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Question: What if I don’t have access to a government-issued photo ID?

Answer: Access Recognised Training Australia may accept alternative forms of ID in certain circumstances such as a copy of your birth certificate or a current student card. Please upload your available form of ID during the assessment process, and we will assess it and advise if any additional checks are required.

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Question: Can international students enrol into RSA training in Canberra?
Answer: Yes, as long as they meet ID requirements and have a USI.  

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Question: Is RSA training available in languages other than English?
Answer: No. The ACT requires RSA training to be delivered in English only. All students must have sufficient English language skills to successfully complete the course. As a guide:​

• Domestic students should have language, literacy and numeracy skills at a Year 9 level or above; and 

• International students should have English proficiency equivalent to PTE 42 or IELTS 5.5  or above.

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Question: Do I need an RCG certificate to work in a Canberra gambling venue?
Answer: Yes, all staff members who are directly involved in providing gambling services to patrons and their supervisors must successfully complete an approved training program before they start working at a gambling facility. 

 

Question: How is RCG training delivered? 

Answer: Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) training is delivered online or face-to-face by ACT-approved training providers such as Access Recognised Training Australia. Access is the only ACT-approved provider of RCG training in Canberra.     

 

Question: How long is an RCG certificate valid in the ACT?
Answer: The RCG training course must be retaken every three years. 

 

Question: Is an RCG refresher course available in the ACT, similar to the RSA refresher?

Answer: No. The ACT Gambling and Racing Commission has not approved any RCG refresher course for the ACT. Gambling workers in Canberra are required to complete the full ACT-approved RCG course every three years to maintain their certification.     

 

Question: Can I complete the RCG course with Access Recognised Training Australia in- person instead of online?
Answer: Access Recognised Training Australia delivers RCG training primarily online. In-person (face-to-face) courses are available, however, they are only accepted via group bookings with a minimum of 10 participants.

 

Question: Can you deliver face-to-face RCG courses at my ACT school or workplace? 

Answer: Yes, Access Recognised Training Australia regularly undertakes face-to-face RCG courses at ACT schools for year 11 - 12 students and ACT workplaces. Please contact us to book and enquire about our special school and industry rates.      

 

Question: Can I enrol in an RCG course if I’m under 18 years of age in Canberra?

Answer: Yes, you can obtain your RCG certificate before turning 18. However, you cannot work in a gambling environment in the ACT until you are 18 years of age. Access recommends completing the ACT-approved RCG course once you have turned 18, or shortly before, so you get the best value out of the three-year validity period.

 

Question: Can I work in a gambling area, if I am under 18 years of age?

Answer: No, you are not permitted to enter or work in a gambling area in the ACT under the age of 18. 

 

Question: What is the difference between RCG certificates in NSW and ACT?
Answer: NSW RCG includes a five-year competency card system, while the ACT requires the  training to be retaken every three years and does not have a competency card system. In the ACT you must provide your valid RCG certificate to your employer who will keep it on file. 

 

Question: I’ve moved to Canberra from interstate. Will my RCG certificate from another state be valid in the ACT?

Answer: No. You must complete the ACT-approved RCG course before commencing work in the ACT. This is because ACT gambling legislation differs from that of other jurisdictions.

 

Question: What personal identification do I need to provide to undertake RCG training in the ACT?
Answer: You will need to provide at least one form of government-issued photo ID. Access Recognised Training Australia accepts driver’s licences, passports, Australia Post Keypass ID cards, proof of identity cards.   

 

Question: What if I don’t have access to a government-issued photo ID?

Answer: Access Recognised Training Australia may accept alternative forms of ID in certain circumstances such as a copy of your birth certificate or a current student card. Please upload your available form of ID during the assessment process, and we will assess it and advise if any additional checks are required.

 

Question: Can international students complete RCG training in Canberra?
Answer: Yes, as long as they meet ID requirements and have a USI.  

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Question: What is a Gambling Contact Officer (GCO)? 

Answer: A Gambling Contact Officer (GCO) serves as the primary point of contact for patrons and staff to discuss gambling-related issues. Each licensee of a gambling facility must appoint at least one GCO.

 

Question: How do I become a GCO? 

Answer: You need to be nominated by your employer and complete an initial approved GCO training program to start in the role. You will need to retake this training every three years.   

 

Question: What other training requirements exist to maintain certification to act as a GCO? 

Answer: GCOs must also complete an approved GCO training session in every year of appointment. This mandatory training for existing GCOs provides advanced training and professional development. Annual GCO training sessions are provided by Access Recognised Training and Lifeline Canberra, with registrations taken online.

 

Question: Do I still need to undertake RCG training every three years if I maintain my GCO certification? 

Answer: No, providing you retake the initial GCO training course every three years and meet the annual GCO training course requirements.    

 

Question: Are there prerequisite courses that must be completed before undertaking the GCO course?

Answer: Yes. To enrol in the initial GCO course, you must first complete the ACT-approved RCG course. To enrol in the annual GCO refresher course, you must have previously completed both the ACT-approved initial GCO course and the ACT-approved RCG course.

 

Question: Why is the GCO Annual Training course fee-free? 

Answer: The course has been funded by the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission through the Gambling Harm Prevention and Mitigation Fund.  

 

Question: What is a Food Safety Supervisor? 

Answer: A Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) is a person appointed by a food business to ensure safe food handling and compliance with food safety standards. In the ACT, all registered food businesses that handle high-risk, unpackaged, ready-to-eat food must appoint an FSS within 30 days of registration.

 

Question: What are the main responsibilities of a Food Safety Supervisor?

Answer: In the ACT, a Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) is responsible for ensuring safe food handling and compliance with food safety laws. Their key responsibilities include:

• Identifying, preventing, and reducing food-handling hazards in the business.

• Supervising food handlers to ensure correct procedures are followed at all times.

• Maintaining compliance with ACT food safety standards and legislation.

• Keeping accurate records, including a current Statement of Attainment from an ACT-approved training provider, available for inspection by authorised officers.

• Renewing certification every five years to ensure skills and knowledge remain current.

By fulfilling these duties, the FSS plays a critical role in protecting public health and supporting the business’s legal compliance.

 

Question: What training do I need to undertake to act as a Food Safety Supervisor?

Answer: To become a Food Safety Supervisor in the ACT, you must undertake food safety training through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). The specific training required depends on your business type:

Businesses that sell potentially hazardous food

• Hospitality (e.g. cafés, restaurants, hotels, fast food outlets, supermarkets):

  • Complete both SITXFSA005 Use hygienic practices for food safety and SITXFSA006 Participate in safe food handling practices.

• Retail (e.g. convenience stores, grocers, petrol stations):

  • Complete SIRRFSA001 Handle food safely in a retail environment or 

  • The training approved for the hospitality sector or the health and community services sector. 

• Health & Community Services (e.g. hospitals, aged care, childcare):

  • Complete all three of: HLTFSE001, HLTFSE005, HLTFSE007.
    OR complete the hospitality pair (SITXFSA005 + SITXFSA006) in addition to HLTFSE001 and HLTFSE007.

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Question: What Food Safety Training does Access Recognised Training Australia provide? 

Answer:  Access provides the hospitality sector training SITXFSA005 Use hygienic practices for food safety and SITXFSA006 Participate in safe food handling practices which can be also used by the retail sector. These two units of competency combine to form the HLTSS00066 Food Safety Supervision Skill Set.
 

Question: How long is a Food Safety Supervisor certificate valid for in the ACT?

Answer: Food Safety Supervisor training must be retaken every 5 years in the ACT. 

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Question: I am currently completing the Food Safety Supervisor course and have no way of completing the Third Party Supervisor Report. Is there an alternative assessment method I can use to meet the course requirements?

Answer: Yes. We can arrange a competency conversation between you and the assessor as an alternative assessment to replace the Third Party Supervisor Report. This competency conversation will focus on the observable skills listed in the Supervisor/Assessor Report. The assessor will ask you a series of questions related to these skills, and you will respond based on your past experiences or, if applicable, how you would apply these skills in a future commercial kitchen setting.

Before the conversation, we ask that you review the Supervisor/Assessor Report carefully so you are prepared to discuss each skill area. During the session, your assessor will record your responses and make a judgement. If they determine you have met the criteria, they will sign off the report. Provided you have also met all other assessment requirements, you will then be awarded the HLTSS00066 Food Safety Supervision Skill Set. To arrange this alternative assessment method, please email peterh@accessrt.edu.au.

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Question: I completed SITXFSA005 Use hygienic practices for food safety and SITXFSA006 Participate in safe food handling practices as part of my apprenticeship. Do I still need to undertake the Food Safety Supervisor training separately? 

Answer: No, however, you still need to redo the training every five years. 

 

Question: How long is a Food Safety Supervisor certificate valid for in the ACT?​

Answer: In the ACT, a Food Safety Supervisor certificate is valid for five years. To maintain your certification, you must retake the required training before it expires.

 

Question: I’ve moved to Canberra from interstate. I hold an interstate-issued Food Safety Supervisor certificate. Is this certificate valid in the ACT?

Answer: Yes, provided the training was completed within the last five years. If your certificate is older than five years, you will need to retake the required Food Safety Supervisor training in the ACT.

      
Question: I have completed my Food Safety Supervisor course in the ACT with Access Recognised Training Australia. Is this certificate valid in NSW? 

Answer: No, if you will be acting as a Food Safety Supervisor in NSW you will need to complete a NSW-approved Food Safety Supervisor course. https://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/retail/fss-food-safety-supervisors/training-organisations  

 

 

Question: How can I trust that Access Recognised Training Australia is a reputable and quality training provider?

Answer: Great question! Access’s reputation is built on a strong track record and close association with the local hospitality industry. In an Australian Government-sanctioned survey conducted in 2023, Access achieved a student satisfaction rate of 97.4% based on feedback from 100 randomly selected students. For over 15 years, we have been training cookery apprentices and future hospitality managers in Canberra. Leading local employers trust us because our programs are developed in partnership with industry and consistently meet or exceed real workplace standards. If the local industry trusts Access, international students can too. This practical, industry-driven approach sets us apart from institutions that cater exclusively to the international student market.

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Question: Do I need an education agent to find a suitable training provider in Australia?

Answer: No. You are not required to use an education agent to find or apply to a training provider in Australia. You can research courses, providers, and application requirements independently. If you choose to use an education agent, ensure they are reputable and have a formal agreement with your chosen provider.
More about education agents – Study Australia

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Question: Do I need a registered migration agent to apply for a Student Visa?

Answer: No. It is not mandatory to use a migration agent to apply for a Student Visa (subclass 500). Many students apply independently. If your situation is complex or you need assistance, a registered migration agent can provide valuable guidance. Make sure any migration agent you use is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).

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Question: What is Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and when should I arrange it?

Answer: OSHC is compulsory health insurance for international students in Australia. You must arrange OSHC before applying for your Student Visa, as proof of cover is required for the visa application.
More about OSHC – PrivateHealth.gov.au

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Question: How can I undertake an IELTS or PTE test in a foreign country for an Australian student visa application?
Answer: To apply for an Australian student visa, students must take an approved English language test through an authorised provider at a secure test centre in their home country or another approved location.

Here’s how:

  1. Choose an approved test

  For visa purposes, the Australian Government accepts the following tests (recommended):

• IELTS (Academic or General Training)

• PTE Academic

  2. Register with an approved provider

• IELTS: Book through www.ielts.org via IDP or British Council

• PTE Academic: Book through www.pearsonpte.com

  Choose a test centre approved for visa purposes in your country. Online or at-home tests are not accepted for Australian    visa applications.

  3. Bring the correct ID

  You’ll usually need your passport to sit the test.

  4. Use the test for your visa application

  Ensure your test results are valid (usually for 2 years) and meet the minimum English language requirements for your     

  visa  subclass. Most student visa applicants need an IELTS equivalent of 5.5 or above, unless exempt.

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Question: Should I use a training provider to help me prepare for the English proficiency tests?
Answer: Yes. Access recommends engaging a reputable organisation to help you prepare for your English proficiency test.

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Question: What is a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), and why is it important?

Answer: A CoE is an official document from your education provider confirming your enrolment in a registered course. You need a CoE to apply for a Student Visa. You’ll receive your CoE after accepting your Letter of Offer, providing proof of OSHC, and paying the required fees.
More about the Student Visa process – Department of Home Affairs

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Question: How long does it take to process a Student Visa application?

Answer: Processing times vary. As of April 2025, the median processing time is about 47 days. For vocational education and training (VET) programs, processing can take up to 8 months, though many applications are finalised sooner.

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Question: What documents do I need to apply for a Student Visa?

Answer: You will typically need:

• A valid passport

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

• Proof of OSHC

• Evidence of sufficient funds

• English language proficiency test results

• A Genuine Student (GS) statement
  Document checklist – Department of Home Affairs

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Question: Can I work while studying in Australia?

Answer: Yes. Student Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and unlimited hours during official breaks.
Working while studying – Study Australia

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Question: What should I do if my visa application is delayed?

Answer: If your visa is delayed and you cannot start your course as planned, contact us immediately. We can defer your course start date so you can commence once your visa is granted.

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Question: Can I choose a qualification at Access Recognised Training Australia without a cookery specialisation?

Answer: No. Access is a specialist culinary and hospitality institute, and all our qualifications are designed to produce well-rounded graduates with skills in both cookery and hospitality operations. Our programs ensure you gain practical experience in both kitchen (back of house) and service (front of house) settings, preparing you for a successful career in the hospitality industry.

 

​​​Question: What is a USI?

Answer: A USI (Unique Student Identifier) is a reference number that creates an online record of your nationally recognised training in Australia. It allows you to access all your training results and certificates from different training providers in one secure location. All students undertaking nationally recognised training in Australia are required to have a USI. You can create one free of charge at www.usi.gov.au.

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Question: What is a VET Transcript?

Answer: A VET Transcript is an official record of your nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET) achievements in Australia. It lists all the units of competency and qualifications you have completed since 2015, as recorded in the national training database.

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Question: How do I access my VET Transcript? 

Answer: Your VET Transcript is accessible through your USI (Unique Student Identifier) account and can be shared with employers, training providers, or licensing bodies as proof of your training history.

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Question: What payment methods does Access accept for online courses?
Answer: During the electronic enrolment process, you will be redirected to PayPal to make your payment. You can pay using your PayPal account, or as a guest using a credit or debit card . You do not need a PayPal account to make the payment.

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Question: What support is available if I have trouble with the online course content?
Answer: If you need assistance with the course content, please contact us at admin@accessrt.edu.au or call our head office on (02) 5100 4985 between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, Monday to Friday.

If you have further questions, please contact our admissions team at admin@accessrt.edu.au or +61 2 5100 4985. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

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​​​​​​Disclaimer:
The information provided in these FAQs is for general guidance only and reflects current requirements in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) at the time of publication. It is not legal advice. RSA laws and regulations can vary between states and territories and are subject to change. Students and employers are encouraged to consult official government sources or contact Access Recognised Training Australia for the most up-to-date information relevant to their situation.

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