Bar Attendant (VIC)

State/Territory Specific Information

Education and Training:

You can work as a bar attendant without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

You can also become a bar attendant through a traineeship in Hospitality. Entry requirements may vary but employers usually require Year 10. Ask your career adviser about the possibility of starting some of this training in school.

Additional Information:

Depending on the liquor licensing requirements of the venue you are working in, you may need a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate. RSA short courses are widely offered in Victoria by TAFE institutes and Registered Training Organisations. Contact Responsible Alcohol Victoria for further details.

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Tourism, Hospitality and Events Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

  1. Clean and Tidy Bar Areas (SIT Unit)
  2. Cocktail Bartending (Training Program)
  3. Complete Hospitality Training (Training Program)
  4. Food Safety Supervisor - Retail (Training Program)
  5. Hygiene for Food Handlers - Hospitality - 3 Units (Training Program)
  6. Liquor Licensing - Licensees' First Step
  7. Operate a Bar (SIT Unit) *
  8. Prepare and Serve Espresso Coffee (SIT Unit) *
  9. Professional Bar Service (Training Program)
  10. Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol (SIT Unit) *
  11. Certificate II in Hospitality *
  12. Certificate III in Hospitality *
  13. Certificate III in Hospitality - Food and Beverage
  14. Associate Degree in Hospitality Management *
  15. Bachelor of Hospitality Management *

Employment Opportunities:

Bar attendants work in hotels, bars, restaurants, cafes, clubs, recreation and convention centres and other licensed entertainment venues. As turnover is relatively high, there is generally a constant demand to replace those leaving the job.

Bar attendants who have undertaken training or are experienced are highly regarded by employers. In larger establishments, bar attendants with experience and additional training may progress to supervisory or management positions.

For Further Information:

Australian Hotels Association (National Office)

(02) 6273 4007

Responsible Alcohol Victoria

1300 650 367

Tourism Training Australia

(02) 9286 3944

Information for other states and territories: