RSA options for international students launched in Northern Territory

A partnership between Hospitality NT and the Territory Government aims to make it easier for overseas students to work in restaurants and venues where alcohol is served.

A PARTNERSHIP between Hospitality NT and the Territory government aims to make it easier for overseas students to work in restaurants and venues where alcohol is served.

A Territory-specific course can now be accessed by international students which will allow them to complete ­responsible service of alcohol requirements online.

Previously some students were required to travel interstate to complete the course.

The new online course will be absolutely free and has the approval of the Liquor Licensing Commission

Hospitality NT chief executive officer Alex Bruce said it is difficult for students not undertaking a hospo-­related course to obtain a ­responsible service of alcohol certificate.

International student Jimena Espitia says previously she had to fly to Brisbane to get her RSA and a new Territory course would be beneficial. Picture: (A)manda Parkinson

“We know how vital international students are in the hospitality industry,” Mr Bruce said.

“We saw how vital they were over the last two years and they are part of the Territory community and we want to reduce all the barriers we possibly can to get them working in our industry.

“Everyone knows there’s a workforce shortage going on right now and this was just a no-brainer.

“Going forward, international students have a free, easy was to satisfy their RSA requirements and then come join us on our side of the bar.

“I think the Territory is well placed to actually capitalise and grow and be a destination of choice for international students going forward.

“Ultimately we get 4000 or 5000 international students in the Territory a year and we’d love to have as many of them working part-time with us as possible.”

International Education Minister Ngaree Ah Kit congratulated Hospitality NT and for engaging with the Territory and federal governments to find a solution.

“We’re trying to entice as many international students to come to the Northern Territory for our uniqueness, for our multicultural environment for our beautiful weather,” Ms Ah Kit said.

Ms Ah Kit said overseas student numbers currently sit at around 3000 in the ­Territory.

Colombian-born overseas student Jimena Espitia, who is completing a social media and marketing diploma at International House said the new rules “are very important”.

“Three years ago I had to fly to Brisbane to be able to get my certification because I was not allowed to get the certificate here in the NT,” Ms Espitia said.

“So definitely this is a fantastic opportunity for many international students, especially for the new ones that are arriving. Having the opportunity that hospitality is bringing to us as international students is magnificent.”

The course can be accessed at internationalstudentsrsant.com