Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)
Staff serving alcohol at the function must hold a valid RSA certification. It is recommended to have one RSA-certified staff member for every 50 attendees. The function organiser is responsible for ensuring all RSA certifications are up to date.
BYO (bring your own) Alcohol Function
Please note that BYO alcohol functions are not permitted on the ANU Acton campus.
Sober Representatives (Sober Rep's)
Sober Rep’s at functions fulfil an important role and must be included at all events where alcohol is served. Their role is to provide safety, support and ensure RSA compliance. They should have the knowledge and ability to recognise the effects of legal and illicit drugs and be able to assist attendees who may need support at your event.
When engaging sober reps for your function:
- Sober rep numbers should be determined in a similar way to crowd control numbers: 1 per 50 attendees, with a minimum of 2 at any event.
- Sober reps must be highly visible and easily identifiable (e.g., wearing hi-vis safety vests).
- It is recommended to have some reps who are non-male identifying and to maintain a general focus on diversity within the group.
- Providing everyone the opportunity to receive training and experience as a sober rep as a sober rep is advisable, as it helps individuals understand the effects of legal and illicit drugs and the impact of intoxication.
While the ANU Disabilities Student Association (DSA) does not encourage the use of drugs or alcohol, it does recommend a harm minimisation approach for those who choose to use them. Being able to talk openly about how to manage a situation involving alcohol or other drugs, and to seek help promptly when something goes wrong, is crucial to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone attending an event.
Specific requirements will be considered as part of the Functions on Campus assessment.
Liquor Health and Safety Concerns?
There are many services available for individuals looking for information on the safe consumption of liquor, as well as health and support services for excessive liquor consumption.
Resources: How Much alcohol is safe to drink?
Support Services: National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline (free call and confidential) 1800 250 015
ANU Support services for students