WA Approved Manager Training Hub

An Approved Manager is a person appointed by a liquor licensee to supervise and manage licensed premises in Western Australia. The role carries real legal weight — the Approved Manager is the person responsible for ensuring the venue operates in compliance with the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA) during the hours they are on duty.

Under section 100(2) of the Act, the licensee of any liquor-licensed premises must ensure that an Approved Manager is present at all times when business is being conducted — unless a specific exception applies. This is not a best-practice recommendation. It is a legal obligation, enforceable by LGIRS authorised officers and police.

What the Approved Manager Is Responsible For

• Supervising and overseeing all liquor service and related activities on the premises
• Ensuring all staff comply with the obligations of the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA)
• Managing responsible service of alcohol — identifying and responding to intoxication, refusing service, managing incidents
• Being present at or available to the premises when business is being conducted
• Ensuring the venue's licence conditions are met at all times during their period of supervision
• Being available to authorised officers (police, liquor inspectors) and cooperating with compliance activities
• Managing the actions of staff, including directing corrective action when compliance issues arise

Completing the Course Does Not Make You an Approved Manager

This is one of the most common misunderstandings about the WA Approved Manager pathway. Completing the AAAT course gives you a Statement of Attainment for MLPLCA001 — a training certificate. You are not an Approved Manager until LGIRS has processed your application and issued your Approved Manager card.

Between lodging your application at the Post Office and receiving the card (approximately 5–6 weeks), your lodgement receipt allows you to act as an Approved Manager. But the card, not the certificate, is the legal authorisation.

Key distinction: AAAT issues your training certificate. LGIRS issues your Approved Manager card. These are two separate things issued by two separate organisations. You need both to be legally appointed.

Approved Manager vs RSA — Not the Same Qualification

RSA (SITHFAB021 — Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol) certifies that an individual can responsibly serve alcohol. The Approved Manager qualification (MLPLCA001) certifies that a person can manage a licensed venue. Both may be required for the same person — but they are separate qualifications addressing different obligations.

• RSA required of: Anyone who sells, supplies or serves alcohol at a WA licensed venue
• Approved Manager required of: The person appointed to supervise and manage the licensed venue during business hours
• RSA is a prerequisite for: The unrestricted Approved Manager pathway — you must hold RSA before AAAT can issue your Approved Manager training certificate
• RSA does not replace: The Approved Manager card — a venue cannot trade with RSA-qualified staff alone; an Approved Manager must be present

What the Unrestricted Card Covers

The unrestricted Approved Manager card authorises you to act as Approved Manager at any type of liquor-licensed premises in Western Australia. This is the broadest authorisation available and is the appropriate pathway for most people working in commercial hospitality — hotels, bars, restaurants, bottle shops, nightclubs, and events.

Who Needs the Unrestricted Card

• Hotel managers and assistant managers
• Bar managers and floor managers
• Restaurant managers where liquor is served
• Bottle shop managers
• Nightclub managers
• Function and event venue managers
• Tavern managers
• Any person who manages or will manage a commercial licensed venue of any type in WA

Training Pathway — Unrestricted

• Step 1 — Complete RSA (SITHFAB021): RSA is a mandatory prerequisite. AAAT cannot issue your Approved Manager training certificate without evidence of your current RSA. Complete WA RSA online at accessallareastraining.com.au/courses/western-australia/rsa-training/rsa-online — $59, same-day certificate.
• Step 2 — Complete MLPLCA001 (Course in Management of Licensed Premises): The Approved Manager training unit developed specifically for Western Australia. Delivered online by AAAT. Self-paced, 24/7, any device. Assessment includes LGIRS-mandated written responses assessed by a qualified AAAT assessor. Same-day Statement of Attainment on successful completion. $149.
• Step 3 — Apply to LGIRS for your Approved Manager card: Your Statement of Attainment is the training evidence for your LGIRS application. The card is then issued by LGIRS after lodgement at a WA Post Office. Full application process is covered in the "Approved Manager Card and Application Guide" section below.

What MLPLCA001 Covers

MLPLCA001 — Manage Legislative Responsibilities for the Sale, Supply and Service of Liquor is a core unit of the 52863WA Course in Management of Licensed Premises. It was developed specifically for Western Australia and is recognised by LGIRS as satisfying the mandatory training requirement for the unrestricted Approved Manager card.

The unit covers:

• The Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA) and Liquor Control Regulations 1989 — the legal framework for all WA licensed venues
• The obligations and responsibilities of a licensee and Approved Manager
• Responsible service of alcohol obligations in a management context — supervising staff, managing incidents, refusing service
• Compliance with licence conditions and interactions with authorised officers
• Managing staff RSA compliance, training registers, and venue records
• Temporary manager arrangements and their limitations
• Consequences of non-compliance — infringement notices, licence suspension, prosecution

If in doubt, choose unrestricted: The unrestricted card allows you to manage any type of WA licensed venue. If your current role is at a hotel, bar, restaurant, bottle shop or event venue — or if you want flexibility across venue types — the unrestricted card is the right choice.

What the Restricted Card Covers

The restricted Approved Manager card authorises you to act as Approved Manager at licensed clubs and for occasional licence events only. It does not cover hotels, bars, restaurants, bottle shops, nightclubs, or any other commercial licensed premises.

Who Needs the Restricted Card

• Club managers and assistant managers at licensed sporting clubs, RSL clubs, golf clubs, and similar
• Club secretaries who are required to act as Approved Manager at the club
• Committee members appointed to manage a licensed club
• Persons managing occasional licence events — fundraisers, community events, temporary events where liquor is sold under an occasional licence

Training Pathway — Restricted

For the restricted pathway, RSA training is the core training requirement rather than a prerequisite to a separate management course.

• RSA training required: Either SITHFAB021 (nationally accredited, delivered by AAAT) or the Clubs WA RSA (Club Industry Training). Contact ClubsWA to confirm which pathway applies to your club role.
• MLPLCA001 not required: The Course in Management of Licensed Premises is not required for the restricted pathway. RSA is sufficient.
• Application process is the same: Online portal, National Police Certificate (max 3 months old), Application Summary, WA Post Office lodgement. See the application guide below.

Restricted vs Unrestricted — Side by Side

Venue types covered — Unrestricted: Any WA licensed premises — hotels, bars, restaurants, bottle shops, clubs, nightclubs, functions, events

Venue types covered — Restricted: Licensed clubs and occasional licence events only

• Training required — Unrestricted: RSA (SITHFAB021) + MLPLCA001 Course in Management of Licensed Premises

• Training required — Restricted: RSA only (SITHFAB021 or Clubs WA RSA)

• Application process — Unrestricted: Online portal + National Police Certificate (max 3 months) + WA Post Office lodgement
• Application process — Restricted: Same — online portal + National Police Certificate + WA Post Office lodgement
• Card validity — Unrestricted: 5 years
• Card validity — Restricted: 5 years
• AAAT course — Unrestricted: MLPLCA001 Approved Manager Course — $149
• AAAT course — Restricted: WA RSA — $59 (then apply to LGIRS for restricted card)

The WA Approved Manager application has five distinct stages. Completing your training is stage two — the physical card does not arrive until approximately 5–6 weeks after lodgement. Plan the full timeline before you start, particularly around the National Police Certificate timing requirement.

Before You Start — What You Will Need

• RSA certificate (SITHFAB021) — unrestricted pathway only: AAAT cannot issue your Approved Manager training certificate without this. Complete WA RSA at accessallareastraining.com.au/courses/western-australia/rsa-training/rsa-online
• MLPLCA001 Statement of Attainment: From AAAT on successful completion of the WA Approved Manager course. $149. Same-day on completion.
• National Police Certificate (NPC): No older than 3 months at the time of Post Office lodgement. This is a hard rule — no exceptions.
• LGIRS portal account: Create at the LGIRS online portal before starting. Username must not contain spaces or symbols such as @, !, &. Password must be at least 8 characters with at least one number.
• Identity documents: As specified on page 1 of your Application Summary. Review requirements before attending the Post Office.

Stage 1 — Complete RSA (Unrestricted pathway only)

Complete WA RSA online through AAAT at accessallareastraining.com.au/courses/western-australia/rsa-training/rsa-online. Cost: $59. Same-day Statement of Attainment on completion. AAAT cannot issue your Approved Manager training certificate without RSA evidence. Complete this before enrolling in the Approved Manager course.

Stage 2 — Complete the MLPLCA001 Approved Manager Course

AAAT's WA Approved Manager course covers MLPLCA001 — Manage Legislative Responsibilities for the Sale, Supply and Service of Liquor. Self-paced, available 24/7 on any device. Assessment includes LGIRS-mandated written responses (free text, assessed by a qualified AAAT assessor — not multiple choice) and a short video identification component. Your Statement of Attainment is issued same-day on successful completion of all assessment stages.

AAAT cannot issue your Approved Manager training certificate until evidence of your RSA has been submitted. Complete RSA before — or enrol in both and ensure RSA is completed first.

Stage 3 — Obtain a National Police Certificate (NPC)

Your NPC must be no more than 3 months old at the time of lodgement at the WA Post Office. This is critical — timing the NPC incorrectly is one of the most common causes of application delays.

• AFP online: Australian Federal Police at afp.gov.au/national-police-checks — allow 1–4 weeks
• Accredited agencies: Listed on the ACIC website at acic.gov.au — processing times and fees vary
• Timing advice: Apply for the NPC after completing your training and when you are ready to lodge — not weeks in advance. An NPC dated 91 days before lodgement will be rejected

The 3-month NPC rule is absolute. If your NPC expires before you lodge, you must obtain a new one. Plan this carefully — apply for the NPC when you are ready to proceed immediately to lodgement.

Stage 4 — Complete the Online Application via the LGIRS Portal

1. Log in to the LGIRS online portal. If you do not have an account, create one — username must not include spaces or special characters, password minimum 8 characters including at least one number.
2. Start a new lodgement and select the Approved Manager Application option.
3. Complete all required applicant details. You will need to provide information about the licensed premises and your role, as well as personal details.
4. Upload your training certificate and National Police Certificate where the system allows.
5. Review all information carefully before submitting — changes after submission may require a new lodgement.
6. Print your Application Summary immediately after submission. The Application Summary is a 2-page document that you must bring to the Post Office. Do not close the portal before printing it.

Stage 5 — Lodge at a Participating WA Post Office

The Application Summary, all documents listed in Section B of the Application Summary, and the application fee must be lodged in person at a participating WA Post Office that has photo-taking capability. This is a hard requirement — you cannot lodge by mail, at a non-participating Post Office, or at an Australia Post outlet in another state or territory.

What Happens at the Post Office

• Identity verification: A Post Office officer will verify your identity against the documents specified on page 1 of your Application Summary
• Photograph: The Post Office officer takes your photograph for the card. You cannot provide your own photo.
• Document lodgement: You hand over copies of the documents listed in Section B of your Application Summary. Check this list carefully before attending — returning with missing documents adds time.
• Payment: The LGIRS application fee is paid at the Post Office. The fee is government-set — check the current amount at the LGIRS fee schedule before attending. The fee is not subject to GST.
• Your receipt: You receive a lodgement receipt immediately. This receipt allows you to act as an Approved Manager from the moment of lodgement — you do not need to wait for the card. Keep the receipt with you at all times when working as Approved Manager. Present it if asked by a police officer or liquor inspector.

Receipt to act immediately: From the moment you receive your Post Office receipt, you can act as Approved Manager. You do not need to wait for the card. Keep the receipt until the card arrives — do not discard it.

What Happens After Lodgement

• Processing time: LGIRS takes approximately 4 weeks to determine the application.
• Card production: If approved, the Approved Manager card is printed and posted within 1–2 weeks of determination.
• Total timeline: From Post Office lodgement to card in hand: approximately 5–6 weeks.
• Track your application: Log in to your LGIRS portal account to check application progress.
• If your application is not approved: LGIRS will contact you with the reasons. You may have an opportunity to respond or appeal. Contact LGIRS directly for guidance.

Full Timeline at a Glance

• Stage 1 — WA RSA online (unrestricted only): 2–4 hours. Same-day certificate. Must be completed before Stage 2.
• Stage 2 — MLPLCA001 Approved Manager course: 6–8 hours. Same-day Statement of Attainment on completion.
• Stage 3 — National Police Certificate: Allow 1–4 weeks. Must be no older than 3 months at time of Post Office lodgement.
• Stage 4 — Online LGIRS portal application: 30–60 minutes. Print Application Summary before leaving the portal.
• Stage 5 — WA Post Office lodgement: One in-person visit. Bring Application Summary + identity documents + payment. Photo taken here.
• Receipt period: From lodgement until card arrives — act as Approved Manager on receipt. Keep it at all times.
• Card issued: Approximately 4 weeks to determine + 1–2 weeks to produce and post = 5–6 weeks total from lodgement.

How Long Does the WA Approved Manager Card Last?

The WA Approved Manager card is valid for 5 years from the date of issue, unless otherwise indicated on the card. LGIRS sends a notification email before expiry — but do not rely solely on this. Monitor your own expiry date and begin the renewal process well before the card expires.

How to Renew Your Card

Renewal is completed through your LGIRS online portal account. You are not required to re-sit the MLPLCA001 training course to renew your card.

• NPC required: A new National Police Certificate, no more than 3 months old at the time of lodgement, is required for renewal.
• Photo update: LGIRS requires your photograph to be updated every 10 years. Your renewal application will automatically indicate whether a new photo is required. If a new photo is needed, you must attend a participating WA Post Office. If no new photo is required, the renewal may be completed fully online.
• Fee levels: Two fee levels apply — lower fee for a fully online renewal (no new photo); higher fee if Post Office attendance is required for a new photograph. Check the current LGIRS fee schedule before renewing.
• Timing: Begin the renewal process at least 6–8 weeks before your card expires. Allow time for the NPC, the online application, and any Post Office visit if a photograph is required.

If your card expires before renewal is completed, you are no longer regarded as an Approved Manager. You cannot act in that role until either a new card has been issued (or a receipt obtained on a fresh application). If the venue then has no valid Approved Manager arrangement in place, it cannot legally trade. Renew before expiry — do not wait until the last moment.

What Happens If My Card Expires Before I Renew?

An expired card cannot be renewed — if your card expires before the renewal process is completed, LGIRS may treat it as a fresh application rather than a renewal. This means going through the full application process again, including Post Office lodgement and the associated timeframe. The best approach is always to renew 6–8 weeks before expiry.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged Card

Apply for a replacement through your LGIRS online portal account. A fee applies. If you request a new photograph with your replacement card, attendance at a participating WA Post Office is required, which results in a higher fee than a no-photo replacement. Application fees are not subject to GST.

Fees — Course and Application (Current as at June 2026)

• WA RSA online course (AAAT): $59 — includes Statement of Attainment (SITHFAB021). Same-day delivery. No separate WA government card fee for RSA.
• WA Approved Manager course (AAAT): $149 — includes Statement of Attainment (MLPLCA001). Same-day on successful completion of all assessments.
• LGIRS card application fee: Government-set. Two levels — lower for fully online lodgement; higher if Post Office attendance (photo) required. Check dlgsc.wa.gov.au/racing-gaming-and-liquor/liquor/liquor-applications/fees-and-charges for current amounts. Fees are not subject to GST.
• LGIRS card renewal fee: Government-set. Lower if fully online (no new photo); higher if Post Office attendance required. Check current LGIRS fee schedule.
• LGIRS card replacement fee: Government-set. Lower for no-photo replacement; higher if new photo required. Check LGIRS fee schedule.
• National Police Certificate (AFP online): Check current fee at afp.gov.au/national-police-checks. Accredited agency fees vary.

AAAT fees cover the online training course and Statement of Attainment only. LGIRS card fees, renewal fees, and replacement fees are paid directly to LGIRS. NPC fees are paid to the AFP or accredited agency. AAAT does not set or receive any government fees.

When Can a Temporary Approved Manager Be Appointed?

Under section 100(3) of the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA), a licensee or an existing Approved Manager may appoint another person to act as a temporary manager when the regular Approved Manager is absent. This provision covers unplanned absences — illness, emergency, or other circumstances where the regular Approved Manager is unexpectedly unavailable.

The 7-Day Consecutive Limit

• Maximum period: A temporary manager can act in that role for up to 7 consecutive days. This limit is set in the Act and is firm.
• Approved Manager card not required: The person acting as temporary manager does not need to hold a current Approved Manager card during the 7-day period. However, they must be appointed by the licensee or existing Approved Manager.
• No chaining: Multiple consecutive 7-day temporary appointments are not a valid compliance arrangement for ongoing absences. If the regular Approved Manager will be absent for more than 7 consecutive days, the licensee must contact LGIRS for guidance.
• For planned absences: If the Approved Manager will be absent for a planned extended period (annual leave, medical leave), contact LGIRS before the absence begins to confirm an appropriate arrangement.

7-day limit is firm: Section 100(3) Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA) — temporary appointments are capped at 7 consecutive days. For any planned absence beyond 7 days, contact LGIRS in advance.

Automatic Mutual Recognition — Interstate Approved Manager Approvals

If you hold an Approved Manager approval or card from another Australian state or territory, you may be able to work as an Approved Manager in WA on a temporary basis under the Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR) scheme — without first obtaining a WA Approved Manager card.

• Notify LGIRS first: You must notify LGIRS before starting work in WA under AMR by completing a notification form with the department.
• WA residents must apply: If your permanent home address becomes WA, AMR no longer applies — you must apply for a WA Approved Manager card to continue working in WA.
• WA card is WA only: The WA Approved Manager card is valid in Western Australia only. To work as Approved Manager in another state, contact that state's licensing authority.
• Interstate RSA not accepted in WA: RSA certificates from other states are not accepted as evidence of WA RSA completion. Provide a copy of your RSA Statement of Attainment — contact your training provider for a replacement copy if needed.

Both RSA and the Approved Manager course are required for many people in WA hospitality management — but they serve different purposes and produce different outcomes.

RSA — Responsible Service of Alcohol (SITHFAB021)

• Who needs it: Anyone who sells, supplies or is involved in the service of alcohol at a WA licensed venue — including bartenders, waitstaff, bottle shop attendants, and managers
• What it covers: Recognising intoxication, refusing service, identifying minors, responsible service obligations for front-line staff
• Card or document: No separate card in WA — your Statement of Attainment (SITHFAB021) from AAAT is your evidence of RSA certification
• Expiry in WA: No formal expiry — WA RSA certification does not expire under WA legislation
• AAAT price: $59 — same-day certificate

WA Approved Manager — MLPLCA001

• Who needs it: The person appointed to supervise and manage a WA licensed venue — the licensee or the person the licensee appoints to be in charge
• What it covers: The Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA), management obligations, responsible service in a management context, venue compliance, staff management, licence conditions, and the legal responsibilities of an Approved Manager
• Card or document: LGIRS-issued Approved Manager ID card — physical card, valid 5 years, must be renewed before expiry
• Expiry: 5 years from issue date — renewal required before expiry
• Prerequisite: RSA (SITHFAB021) must be completed before AAAT can issue the Approved Manager training certificate (unrestricted pathway)
• AAAT price: $149 — same-day Statement of Attainment on successful completion

Both required for most venue managers: RSA certifies that you can responsibly serve alcohol. The Approved Manager card certifies that you can manage the venue. A venue manager in WA typically needs both — RSA for their role serving or overseeing alcohol service, and the Approved Manager card for their management appointment.

Licensee Obligation — Training Register

Under the Liquor Control Regulations 1989 (reg. 14AG(2)), licensees of WA liquor-licensed premises are required to maintain a training register. This register must record employees and volunteers who have completed RSA training, and copies of training certificates must be retained on the premises in a format that is available for inspection — either hard copy or electronic.

What the Training Register Must Contain

• Staff member name and role
• Date RSA training was completed
• Training unit completed (SITHFAB021 or Clubs WA RSA)
• Name of the RTO that delivered the training (for AAAT: RTO 52312)
• Statement of Attainment reference or file reference number
• Date of any refresher training or subsequent units completed

Approved Manager Records

In addition to the RSA training register, licensees should maintain records of their Approved Manager(s):

• Name of the current Approved Manager(s) appointed at the premises

• Approved Manager card number and issue date
• Card expiry date — with a calendar reminder set at least 8 weeks before expiry
• Copy of the Approved Manager card — kept on premises and accessible for inspection
• Any temporary manager appointments made — dates, person appointed, reason

28-Day Rule — New Staff

Staff engaged in the sale, supply or service of liquor at a WA licensed venue have 28 days from the date they commence employment in that capacity to complete RSA training. They must provide a copy of their training certificate to the employer as soon as practicable after completion. AAAT recommends requiring RSA completion before the first shift where possible — do not leave compliance to the final days of the 28-day window.

Compliance Inspection Risk

LGIRS authorised officers and police can request to see training register records and Approved Manager card evidence at any time during a compliance visit. Absence of records is treated as a compliance failure regardless of whether training has actually been completed. Keeping records current is not optional — it is a legal obligation under the Regulations.

Bulk enrolments and central tracking: AAAT provides central invoicing and completion tracking for WA venue groups and multi-site hospitality operators. Contact 1300 287 554 or employers@accessallareastraining.com.au to set up an employer account. Trusted by Dan Murphy's, BWS, Nando's, Boost Juice, Guzman Y Gomez and Moët Hennessy.

Section 100(2) — Approved Manager Required at All Times

Under section 100(2) of the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA), the licensee must ensure an Approved Manager is present at the licensed premises at all times when business is being conducted. This is a non-negotiable obligation — a venue cannot legally trade without an Approved Manager present or on call under a valid arrangement.

What "Present" Means

The Act requires the Approved Manager to be physically present at the premises during business hours. This is stricter than the "reasonably available" standard that applies to Food Safety Supervisors — for an Approved Manager in WA, actual presence is required, not just availability to be contacted.

• Unplanned absences: Covered by temporary manager appointment under section 100(3) for up to 7 consecutive days
• Planned extended absences: Contact LGIRS before the absence begins. Do not rely on chained 7-day temporary appointments for ongoing absences
• Multiple sites: A person can hold the Approved Manager card and be appointed at multiple venues, but they can only physically be at one venue at a time. Each venue must have its own valid arrangement when the Approved Manager is not present

Consequences of Non-Compliance

• Infringement notices issued to the licensee by LGIRS authorised officers or police
• Licence conditions may be varied or additional conditions imposed
• Repeated non-compliance can result in licence suspension or cancellation proceedings
• Individual Approved Managers may have their card cancelled for serious or repeated breaches

Approved Manager Card Must Be on Premises

The Approved Manager's card must be kept at the licensed premises and be available for inspection. Most licensees keep a copy in the venue files accessible to management. When the Approved Manager is present, they should be able to produce their card on request. Authorised officers (LGIRS inspectors, police) may ask to see it during compliance visits.

Which Card for Clubs?

For persons managing licensed clubs in Western Australia — sporting clubs, RSL clubs, golf clubs, bowling clubs, and similar not-for-profit licensed organisations — the restricted Approved Manager card is generally the appropriate pathway. The restricted card covers club licences and is sufficient for managing club premises.

If a club manager also needs to manage other types of licensed venues (hotels, bars, restaurants), or wants flexibility across venue types, they need the unrestricted card and must complete the full MLPLCA001 training pathway.

RSA for Club Staff in WA

All staff at licensed clubs who sell, supply or service alcohol are required to hold RSA certification. WA has two accepted pathways for RSA in the club sector:

• SITHFAB021 (nationally accredited): The nationally recognised RSA unit, delivered online by AAAT at accessallareastraining.com.au/courses/western-australia/rsa-training/rsa-online — $59, same-day certificate. Accepted for both club and commercial venue purposes.
• Clubs WA RSA (Club Industry Training): A pathway specifically designed for the club sector, delivered through ClubsWA. Accepted for club premises and the restricted Approved Manager card pathway. Contact ClubsWA (clubswa.com.au) for information.

Club Secretaries and Committee Members

Club secretaries and committee members who are required to act as Approved Manager at their licensed club must hold a current Approved Manager card — either unrestricted or restricted as appropriate — before being formally appointed. Many clubs require the club secretary or a designated committee member to hold this qualification as part of their governance obligations.

Training Registers at Clubs

Licensed clubs have the same training register obligations as commercial venues. The licensee (the club) must maintain a register of all staff and volunteers who have completed RSA training and retain copies of training certificates. For smaller clubs with volunteer bar staff, ensuring the register is current and maintained between seasonal periods is particularly important.

Occasional Events at Club Premises

Clubs holding occasional licence events — fundraisers, member events, functions with guest attendance — must ensure an Approved Manager is present at all times during the event. If the regular Approved Manager is unavailable, a temporary appointment under section 100(3) can cover up to 7 consecutive days, which is generally sufficient for an event.

What Is an Occasional Licence?

An occasional licence is a one-off or temporary licence issued under the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA) that permits the sale or supply of liquor at a specific event, location, or period. Occasional licences are commonly used for fundraising events, festivals, community markets, private functions, and temporary events.

Does an Occasional Licence Require an Approved Manager?

Whether an Approved Manager is required depends on the conditions attached to the specific occasional licence. Not all occasional licences require a formal Approved Manager appointment — some smaller or lower-risk events may operate under different conditions. Always check the licence conditions before the event.

• If the licence conditions require an Approved Manager: The person appointed must hold a current Approved Manager card (unrestricted or restricted as applicable) or be operating under a valid temporary arrangement.
• If no Approved Manager is specified in the licence conditions: The licensee is still responsible for all other licence obligations and responsible service of alcohol requirements. Contact LGIRS if unsure about your obligations.

Applying for an Occasional Licence

Occasional licence applications are made through the LGIRS online portal. The application requires details of the event, the premises, the proposed hours, and the responsible service arrangements. Processing times vary — apply well in advance of the event date.

Occasional licence conditions and requirements can vary significantly between applications. Confirm the specific requirements for your event with LGIRS before finalising arrangements. Contact LGIRS at www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/racing-gaming-and-liquor/liquor for guidance.

Hotel Licence

Hotel licences are the most common type of full liquor licence in WA. A hotel licence permits the sale and supply of liquor for consumption on and off the premises. An Approved Manager with an unrestricted card must be present at all times when the hotel is conducting business.

• Training pathway: Unrestricted Approved Manager card — RSA + MLPLCA001

• Typical roles requiring the card: Hotel managers, duty managers, assistant managers appointed to be in charge of the premises

Tavern Licence

Tavern licences permit the sale and supply of liquor for consumption on the premises. The requirements for Approved Managers at taverns mirror those for hotels — an unrestricted card is required, and the manager must be present at all times during trading.

Restaurant Licence (Liquor)

Licensed restaurants in WA require an Approved Manager to be present during the hours when liquor is sold or supplied. For most licensed restaurants, the unrestricted Approved Manager card is required.

Small Bar Licence

Small bars are a distinct licence category in WA, typically covering venues with a maximum of 120 persons and specific trading conditions. An Approved Manager must be present during trading. Unrestricted card required.

Club Licence / Club Restricted Licence

Club licences and club restricted licences are issued to not-for-profit organisations such as sporting clubs and RSL clubs. The restricted Approved Manager card pathway is appropriate for persons managing club-licensed premises only. If the club manager also manages other types of venues, an unrestricted card is needed.

Liquor Store Licence (Bottle Shop)

Bottle shops and liquor stores in WA operate under a liquor store licence. An unrestricted Approved Manager card is required for the manager of a licensed bottle shop. Staff who sell alcohol also require RSA.

Nightclub Licence

Nightclubs operate under an extended trading permit in conjunction with another licence type. An unrestricted Approved Manager must be present at all times during trading, including all extended trading hours. Given the higher-risk environment, the Approved Manager role at a nightclub carries significant responsibility.

Producer's Licence (Winery, Brewery, Distillery)

Wineries, breweries and distilleries in WA that sell liquor directly to the public (cellar door, brewery bar) operate under a producer's licence. Contact LGIRS to confirm the specific Approved Manager requirements for your type of producer's licence and the activities conducted on the premises.

Licence type and conditions can change, and requirements can vary within each category. Confirm the specific Approved Manager requirements for your licence type and premises directly with LGIRS before relying on this information.

Answer: For the unrestricted Approved Manager card, yes — RSA (SITHFAB021) is a mandatory prerequisite. AAAT cannot issue your Approved Manager training certificate without evidence of your current RSA. For the restricted pathway (clubs and occasional licences), RSA is the core training requirement rather than a prerequisite to a separate management course. Complete WA RSA online at accessallareastraining.com.au/courses/western-australia/rsa-training/rsa-online — $59, same-day certificate.

Answer: The unrestricted card covers any type of WA licensed premises — hotels, restaurants, bars, bottle shops, clubs, nightclubs, and events. It requires completion of the MLPLCA001 unit (Course in Management of Licensed Premises). The restricted card covers licensed clubs and occasional licence events only, and requires RSA training rather than the management course. If you are not sure which applies to your venue type, the unrestricted card is generally the correct choice for commercial licensed premises.

Answer: The WA Approved Manager card is valid for 5 years from the date of issue, unless otherwise indicated on the card. LGIRS will notify you via email before expiry. Do not wait for the notification — monitor your own expiry date and renew before the card expires. If the card expires before renewal is completed, you may need to make a fresh application rather than a renewal.

Answer: No. Completing the AAAT course gives you a Statement of Attainment for MLPLCA001 — your training certificate. You must then apply to LGIRS through their online portal, obtain a National Police Certificate (no older than 3 months), print your Application Summary, and lodge at a participating WA Post Office where your photo is taken. LGIRS processes the application in approximately 4 weeks and posts the card within 1–2 weeks of determination. On lodgement, you receive a receipt that allows you to act as Approved Manager immediately while waiting for the card.

Answer: For the unrestricted pathway: your MLPLCA001 training certificate from AAAT, your RSA certificate, and a National Police Certificate no older than 3 months. For the restricted pathway: your RSA certificate and National Police Certificate. You will also need identity documents as specified on page 1 of your Application Summary. Check the current LGIRS Approved Manager Lodgement Guide before lodging — requirements can change.

Answer: Yes — once you have lodged your application at a participating WA Post Office and received your lodgement receipt. The receipt allows you to act as an Approved Manager while the application is being determined. You must keep this receipt and present it if asked by an authorised officer such as a police officer or liquor inspector. Do not discard the receipt until the card arrives.

Answer: Yes — under section 100(3) of the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA), a licensee or existing Approved Manager may appoint another person to act as temporary manager for up to 7 consecutive days. This covers unplanned absences such as illness or emergency. For planned extended absences, contact LGIRS in advance. There is no provision to chain multiple 7-day temporary appointments indefinitely.

Answer: MLPLCA001 stands for Manage Legislative Responsibilities for the Sale, Supply and Service of Liquor. It is a core unit of the 52863WA Course in Management of Licensed Premises, developed specifically for Western Australia and recognised by LGIRS as meeting the mandatory training requirements for the unrestricted Approved Manager card. AAAT delivers MLPLCA001 online with same-day Statement of Attainment on successful completion.

Answer: Most students complete AAAT's WA Approved Manager course in 4–6 hours. The course is self-paced and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on any device. You can pause and resume at any time. Your Statement of Attainment is issued same-day on successful completion of all assessments, including the LGIRS-mandated written responses.

Answer: No. The WA Approved Manager card is valid in Western Australia only. Each state and territory has its own licensing authority and its own requirements for venue management qualifications. If you move interstate, contact the relevant licensing authority in your new state before taking on a management role. Equally, an interstate RSA is not accepted as evidence of RSA completion in WA.

Answer: Yes. AAAT provides bulk enrolment and central invoicing for WA venue groups and multi-site hospitality operators. Contact AAAT on 1300 287 554 or via accessallareastraining.com.au/employers. Trusted by Dan Murphy's, BWS, Nando's, Boost Juice, Guzman Y Gomez and Moët Hennessy for team compliance training across Australia.

Answer: AAAT's training course fees ($59 for RSA, $149 for Approved Manager) are current at the time of publication. Government fees charged by LGIRS for card applications, renewals and replacements are set by LGIRS and not within AAAT's control. Always check the current LGIRS fee schedule at dlgsc.wa.gov.au/racing-gaming-and-liquor/liquor/liquor-applications/fees-and-charges before lodging an application.

Answer: Your application will be rejected at the WA Post Office. The 3-month requirement for the National Police Certificate is a hard rule — there are no exceptions and no grace periods. If your NPC has expired, you must obtain a new one before lodging. To avoid this situation: apply for your NPC only when you are ready to proceed immediately to Post Office lodgement. Do not apply for the NPC weeks before you are ready to lodge, as it may expire before you get there.

Answer: An Approved Manager card is issued to an individual person, not to a venue. A person who holds a card can in principle be appointed as Approved Manager at more than one licensed venue — but the statutory requirement is that an Approved Manager must be physically present at the licensed premises whenever business is being conducted. In practice, one person cannot be physically present at two venues simultaneously. For licensees operating multiple venues, each venue needs its own Approved Manager arrangement (either a dedicated Approved Manager, or a temporary arrangement under section 100(3) when the primary Approved Manager is at another site). Contact LGIRS if you operate multiple venues and need guidance on compliant arrangements.

Answer: Under section 100(2) of the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA), an Approved Manager must be present at the licensed premises at all times when business is being conducted. "Present" means physically at the venue — not simply available by phone. This is a stricter standard than applies in some other contexts (for example, Food Safety Supervisors who must be "reasonably available"). For a WA Approved Manager, actual presence is required. If the Approved Manager is not present, a valid temporary arrangement under section 100(3) must be in place, or the venue cannot legally trade.

Answer: Contact LGIRS as soon as possible if your circumstances change after lodgement — for example, if you change the venue you intend to manage, or if there are changes to the information you submitted in your application. Depending on the nature of the change, LGIRS may require you to submit updated information or, in some cases, make a fresh application. Do not assume changes are automatically captured — contact LGIRS directly and confirm in writing.

Answer: If you are managing a function or event at premises that hold a standard liquor licence (hotel, tavern, restaurant, club), and you are the person responsible for supervising the venue and liquor service during that event, you should hold a current Approved Manager card. For events at venues operating under an occasional licence, the licence conditions will specify whether an Approved Manager is required. Check the specific licence conditions for the event. If unsure, contact LGIRS before the event.

Answer: The underlying training unit — SITHFAB021 (Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol) — is nationally recognised and the Statement of Attainment is the same document regardless of which state you complete it in. However, RSA certification is administered state-by-state in practice. An RSA certificate issued by a WA-based training in another state is generally not accepted as evidence of WA RSA completion by WA employers or LGIRS. If you completed RSA in another state and are now working in WA, confirm with your employer and LGIRS whether your certificate is accepted, or complete AAAT's WA RSA course to ensure your certification is current and accepted in WA.

WA Approved Manager mandatory training guidance: Training requirements, restricted vs unrestricted pathways, temporary managers, AMR scheme, card use and renewal

View Current Approved Manager Guidance

Approved Manager lodgement guide: Step-by-step guidance for completing the LGIRS online application and lodging documents at a WA Post Office

View Approved Manager Lodgement Guide

Approved Manager renewal guide: How to renew your card, NPC requirements, photo update rules (every 10 years), fee information

View Approved Manager Renewal Guide

Replace ID card guide: How to replace a lost, damaged or stolen Approved Manager card

View Replace ID Card Guide

LGIRS fees and charges: Check current card application, renewal and replacement fees before lodging. Fees are government-set and not subject to GST.

View Current Fee Schedule

LGIRS forms and checklists: Current forms, checklists and licensee resources for all liquor licensing application types

View Forms and Checklists

National Police Certificate - Australian Federal Police: Obtain your NPC online through the AFP — required for Approved Manager applications and renewals

Obtain NPC Online — AFP

WA Post Office locator Australia Post: Find your nearest participating WA Post Office for Approved Manager application lodgement

Find a Participating WA Post Office

Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA): The primary legislation underpinning all WA liquor licensing and Approved Manager requirements

Liquor Control Regulations 1989 (WA): Training register requirements and other regulatory obligations for licensees

LGIRS liquor licensing guidance: General licensing information for licensees including harm minimisation, responsible service, and venue obligations

View LGIRS Liquor Licensing Guidance

Liquor restrictions can vary by location.

Check the current regulator page for location-specific information before relying on a stored PDF or historical guide.

View Current Liquor Restrictions

Liquor restrictions can vary significantly by location in Western Australia, particularly in remote and regional areas. Some areas have specific restrictions on the type, quantity, or hours of liquor that can be sold or supplied.

Check before serving: If your licensed venue is in or near a restricted area, confirm the current restrictions before selling or supplying liquor to customers. Restrictions can apply to customers from specific areas, not just the venue itself.

Restrictions can change: Regional liquor restrictions are subject to change. Do not rely on stored PDFs or historical information — check the current LGIRS restrictions page.

Penalties: Selling or supplying liquor in breach of regional restrictions is a serious offence under the Liquor Control Act 1988 (WA). Penalties apply to licensees, Approved Managers, and individual staff members.

Access current guidance for licensed premises, including harm minimisation, mandatory training, safety and security, responsible promotion, drinking water, dress standards and extended trading permits.

View Liquor Licensing Guidance

Access current forms, checklists and responsible-service poster resources for licensed venues.

Poster topics may include ID checking, responsible service, intoxication awareness, penalties and water availability.

View Current Posters and Licensee Resources