Responsible Service of Alcohol

Topic 1. Introduction to RSA

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1.1 What is RSA?

RSA is about providing strategies for all levels of the liquor industry and the community to reduce:

  • problems associated with alcohol and alcohol-related, anti-social behaviour (violence and crime)

  • the effects on the neighbourhood of licensed premises.

So what is RSA and how do you comply with it in your workplace?

A drinks server

RSA is a fundamental principle enshrined in legislation. It guides licensees and their staff to make sure they comply with the Liquor Act. It includes a range of flexible and proactive initiatives that suit individual sectors, individual venues and various risks in those venues. Responsible service in action compliments a range of strategies to not get people drunk. It can be as simple as serving free water and food, or having extra security personnel on closing time to make sure people leave the vicinity. These initiatives could be further complimented by putting restrictions on risk drinks such as alcopops. Another example of responsible service in action is the banning of shots and high content ready-to-drinks (RTDs) after 9.00pm.

You need to comply with RSA by ensuring that you:

  • do not serve anyone under the age of 18

  • recognise the signs of impending intoxication and do not serve anyone at this point

  • do not serve anyone who arrives at your establishment already intoxicated

  • understand the principles of ‘standard drinks’ and drink drive levels

  • discourage patrons from engaging in activities which can harm themselves or others.

RSA means that you must comply with all NSW liquor laws. It also means that you must promote and support a safer environment by only selling, serving or promoting alcoholic beverages in a professional and responsible manner. Following RSA practices helps to ensure that your patrons do not become intoxicated and then become a problem for staff, management, the licensee and the local community.

Harm minimisation has also been a primary objective of NSW liquor laws since 1996 and certain activities are limited on licensed premises to prevent the misuse or abuse of liquor.

Read more about the evolution of the NSW liquor laws and responsible service of alcohol.

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