RCG License Australia: Complete Guide 2025
The Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) certificate, also known as Responsible Service of Gambling (RSG), is an essential qualification for anyone working with gaming machines or in gambling environments in Australia. If you’re considering a career in clubs, pubs, casinos, or other gaming venues, understanding RCG requirements, how to obtain your certificate, and which jobs require it will help you prepare for employment.
This comprehensive guide explains what RCG is, why it’s required, which jobs need it, how to get your RCG certificate, state-by-state requirements, and everything you need to know about RCG certification in Australia.
Quick Answer: What is RCG, and Do You Need It?
RCG (Responsible Conduct of Gambling) is a mandatory training certificate required for anyone working with gaming machines or in gambling environments in Australia. If you’ll be operating, servicing, or supervising gaming machines, or working in venues with gambling activities, you need RCG certification.
Key Points:
- Legal requirement: RCG is mandatory by law in states with gaming machines
- Who needs it: Anyone working with or around gaming machines
- When to get it: Before starting work or within first few days (varies by state)
- How long it takes: 4-8 hours online course
- Cost: $80-200 depending on provider and state
- Validity: Typically 3-5 years (varies by state)
What is RCG (Responsible Conduct of Gambling)?
Definition
RCG stands for Responsible Conduct of Gambling (also called RSG – Responsible Service of Gambling in some states). It’s a nationally recognized training course and certification that teaches gaming venue staff how to provide gambling services responsibly and comply with gambling regulations.
What RCG Training Covers
Legal Responsibilities: Understanding gambling laws, regulations, and your legal obligations.
Identifying Problem Gambling: Recognizing signs of problem gambling and gambling addiction.
Intervention Strategies: How to approach and assist customers showing signs of problem gambling.
Responsible Gambling Practices: Promoting responsible gambling, providing information, and offering support.
Self-Exclusion Programs: Understanding and implementing self-exclusion procedures.
Minors and Gambling: Preventing underage gambling, checking ID, and legal requirements.
Harm Minimization: Strategies to minimize gambling-related harm to individuals and families.
Support Services: Connecting problem gamblers with counseling and support services.
Venue Policies: Understanding venue-specific responsible gambling policies and procedures.
Customer Service: Balancing customer service with responsible gambling obligations.
Why RCG is Required
Legal Compliance: Gambling regulations in Australian states require RCG certification for gaming staff.
Problem Gambling Prevention: RCG training helps prevent and address gambling addiction and harm.
Venue Protection: Proper RCG practices protect venues from legal liability and license violations.
Community Responsibility: Responsible gambling practices contribute to community wellbeing.
Professional Standards: RCG ensures gaming staff have consistent, professional training.
Which Jobs Require RCG?
Jobs That ALWAYS Require RCG
Gaming Attendant: Monitoring gaming machines, assisting customers, paying out winnings.
Gaming Machine Technician: Servicing, repairing, and maintaining gaming machines.
Casino Dealer: Operating table games, managing chips, interacting with gamblers.
Gaming Supervisor/Manager: Supervising gaming floor, managing staff, ensuring compliance.
Keno Operator: Operating Keno games, processing bets, announcing results.
TAB Operator: Processing betting transactions for racing and sports.
Gaming Cashier: Handling gaming transactions, cashing out chips, processing payouts.
Slot Attendant: Assisting customers with gaming machines, handling jackpots.
Casino Pit Boss: Supervising table games, managing dealers, resolving disputes.
Gaming Venue Manager: Overall management of venues with gaming machines.
Jobs That SOMETIMES Require RCG
Bar Staff (in gaming venues): May need RCG if working near or around gaming machines.
Security Staff (gaming venues): May need RCG to understand gambling regulations and assist with interventions.
Venue Staff (clubs/pubs with gaming): May need RCG depending on proximity to gaming areas and job duties.
Hospitality Staff (casinos): May need RCG if working in areas where gambling occurs.
Jobs That DON’T Require RCG
Kitchen Staff: No contact with gaming areas or customers.
Cleaners (non-gaming areas): Cleaning staff who don’t work in gaming areas.
Administrative Staff: Office staff with no gaming floor responsibilities.
Entertainment Staff: Performers, musicians who don’t work in gaming areas.
RCG Requirements by State and Territory
RCG requirements vary across Australian states and territories:
New South Wales (NSW)
Certificate Name: RCG Competency Card (Responsible Conduct of Gambling)
Course: SITHGAM022 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services
Validity: 5 years
When to Get It: Must have interim certificate before starting work; competency card within 90 days
Cost: $100-200
Renewal: Must complete refresher course every 5 years
Application: Complete training, then apply for competency card through Service NSW
Note: NSW has strict RCG requirements for all gaming venue staff
Victoria (VIC)
Certificate Name: RSG Certificate (Responsible Service of Gambling)
Course: SITHGAM022 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services
Validity: 3 years
When to Get It: Before commencing work with gaming machines
Cost: $100-180
Renewal: Must complete refresher course every 3 years
Application: Complete approved training with Victorian RTO
Note: Victoria calls it RSG instead of RCG
Queensland (QLD)
Certificate Name: RSG Certificate (Responsible Service of Gambling)
Course: SITHGAM022 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services
Validity: 3 years
When to Get It: Before commencing work with gaming machines
Cost: $90-170
Renewal: Must complete refresher course every 3 years
Application: Complete approved training with Queensland RTO
Note: Required for anyone working with gaming machines in licensed venues
South Australia (SA)
Certificate Name: RCG Certificate
Course: SITHGAM022 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services
Validity: 3 years
When to Get It: Before commencing work with gaming machines
Cost: $90-180
Renewal: Must complete refresher course every 3 years
Application: Complete approved training with SA RTO
Western Australia (WA)
Certificate Name: RCG Certificate
Course: SITHGAM022 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services
Validity: 3 years
When to Get It: Before commencing work with gaming machines
Cost: $100-190
Renewal: Must complete refresher course every 3 years
Application: Complete approved training with WA RTO
Note: WA has limited gaming machines (only in casino)
Tasmania (TAS)
Certificate Name: RCG Certificate
Course: SITHGAM022 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services
Validity: 3 years
When to Get It: Before commencing work with gaming machines
Cost: $90-170
Renewal: Must complete refresher course every 3 years
Application: Complete approved training with Tasmanian RTO
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Certificate Name: RCG Certificate
Course: SITHGAM022 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services
Validity: 3 years
When to Get It: Before commencing work with gaming machines
Cost: $90-180
Renewal: Must complete refresher course every 3 years
Application: Complete approved training with ACT RTO
Northern Territory (NT)
Certificate Name: RCG Certificate
Course: SITHGAM022 – Provide Responsible Gambling Services
Validity: 3 years
When to Get It: Before commencing work with gaming machines
Cost: $100-190
Renewal: Must complete refresher course every 3 years
Application: Complete approved training with NT RTO
How to Get Your RCG Certificate
Step 1: Choose Your Training Method
Online Course (Most Popular):
- Complete course entirely online
- Study at your own pace
- Takes 4-8 hours
- Certificate upon completion
- Most convenient option
Face-to-Face Course:
- Attend in-person training session
- Typically full-day course (6-8 hours)
- More interactive and hands-on
- Good for those who prefer classroom learning
Blended Learning:
- Combination of online and face-to-face
- Online theory, in-person practical assessment
- Some states require this format
Step 2: Select an Approved Training Provider
Must be Registered Training Organization (RTO): Only RTOs approved in your state can issue valid RCG certificates.
Popular Providers:
- Express Online Training (EOT)
- Galaxy Training Australia
- Club Training Australia
- Clear to Work
- JT College
- Local TAFE colleges
Check Approval: Verify the provider is approved in your state before enrolling.
Step 3: Enroll and Pay
Cost: $80-200 depending on provider and state
Payment: Credit card, PayPal, or other online payment
Instant Access: Most online courses provide immediate access after payment
Step 4: Complete the Course
Duration: 4-8 hours (can be completed in one sitting or multiple sessions)
Content:
- Read course materials
- Watch videos and case studies
- Complete activities and scenarios
- Take quizzes throughout
Assessment:
- Final assessment/exam at end
- Multiple choice and scenario-based questions
- Must achieve 80% or higher to pass
- Can usually retake if you don’t pass first time
Step 5: Receive Your Certificate
Online Courses:
- Digital certificate upon passing (instant or within 24 hours)
- Download and print immediately
- Physical certificate mailed within 1-2 weeks
Face-to-Face Courses:
- Certificate issued same day or within few days
Step 6: Apply for Competency Card (NSW Only)
NSW Requirement: In NSW, you must apply for an RCG Competency Card through Service NSW after completing training.
Process:
- Complete training and get interim certificate
- Apply online or at Service NSW center
- Provide proof of identity
- Pay fee ($60)
- Receive competency card within 2-3 weeks
Interim Certificate: Can work with interim certificate while waiting for competency card (valid 90 days).
RCG Course Content Breakdown
Module 1: Legal and Regulatory Framework
Topics:
- Gambling laws and regulations in your state
- Legal responsibilities of venues and staff
- Penalties for breaching gambling laws
- Licensing requirements
- Venue codes of conduct
Module 2: Understanding Problem Gambling
Topics:
- What is problem gambling
- Signs and symptoms of gambling addiction
- Risk factors for problem gambling
- Impact on individuals, families, and communities
- Gambling harm statistics
Module 3: Identifying At-Risk Customers
Topics:
- Behavioral indicators of problem gambling
- Physical signs of distress
- Patterns of concerning gambling behavior
- High-risk gambling activities
- Vulnerable populations
Module 4: Intervention Strategies
Topics:
- When to intervene
- How to approach customers with concerns
- Communication techniques
- De-escalation strategies
- Dealing with resistance or denial
- Working with security and management
Module 5: Responsible Gambling Practices
Topics:
- Promoting responsible gambling
- Providing information about odds and risks
- Encouraging breaks and limits
- Offering food, drinks, and distractions
- Displaying responsible gambling messages
- Venue layout and design considerations
Module 6: Self-Exclusion Programs
Topics:
- What is self-exclusion
- How self-exclusion programs work
- Venue responsibilities
- Identifying self-excluded customers
- Enforcing self-exclusion
- Supporting self-excluded individuals
Module 7: Minors and Gambling
Topics:
- Legal gambling age (18 years in Australia)
- Acceptable forms of ID
- How to check ID properly
- Preventing underage gambling
- Penalties for allowing minors to gamble
Module 8: Support Services and Referrals
Topics:
- Gambling counseling services
- Gambling helplines (1800 858 858 national helpline)
- Financial counseling
- Family support services
- How to provide referral information
- Venue support resources
Module 9: Customer Service and Responsible Gambling
Topics:
- Balancing customer service with responsible gambling
- Handling difficult conversations
- Maintaining positive venue atmosphere
- Supporting customers who want to gamble responsibly
- Professional boundaries
Cost of RCG Certificate
Online Courses
Budget Options: $80-110
- Basic online course
- Digital certificate
- Email support
Standard Options: $110-150
- Comprehensive online course
- Digital and physical certificate
- Phone/email support
- Money-back guarantee
Premium Options: $150-200
- Enhanced course materials
- Priority support
- Faster certificate delivery
- Additional resources
- Lifetime access to materials
Face-to-Face Courses
TAFE: $150-250
- Classroom-based training
- Experienced trainers
- Hands-on activities
- Certificate issued same day
Private RTOs: $180-300
- Small class sizes
- Flexible scheduling
- Personalized attention
- Industry-experienced trainers
Additional Costs (NSW Only)
RCG Competency Card: $60
- Required in NSW after completing training
- Valid for 5 years
- Apply through Service NSW
How Long Does RCG Take?
Online Course
Course Duration: 4-8 hours
- Read materials: 3-4 hours
- Watch videos: 1-2 hours
- Complete activities: 1-2 hours
- Final assessment: 45-60 minutes
Can Be Completed:
- In one sitting (4-8 hours)
- Over multiple sessions (save progress)
- At your own pace
Certificate Issued:
- Within 24 hours of passing (digital)
- Physical certificate mailed within 1-2 weeks
Face-to-Face Course
Course Duration: 6-8 hours
- Full-day course
- Usually 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Schedule:
- Weekday or weekend sessions
- Must attend entire session
Certificate Issued:
- Same day or within few days
RCG Validity and Renewal
Validity Periods by State
3 Years: VIC, QLD, SA, WA, TAS, ACT, NT 5 Years: NSW
Renewal Process
Before Expiry: Complete RCG refresher course before your certificate expires.
Refresher Course:
- Shorter than initial course (3-5 hours)
- Reviews key concepts
- Updates on law and regulation changes
- New certificate issued upon completion
Cost: Similar to initial course ($80-200)
If Expired: Must complete full RCG course again, not just refresher.
RCG vs RSA: What’s the Difference?
RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol)
Purpose: Training for serving alcohol responsibly
Required For: Bartenders, waitstaff, bottle shop workers
Focus: Alcohol intoxication, refusing service, preventing alcohol harm
Duration: 3-6 hours
Cost: $30-80
RCG/RSG (Responsible Conduct/Service of Gambling)
Purpose: Training for providing gambling services responsibly
Required For: Gaming attendants, casino staff, gaming machine operators
Focus: Problem gambling, intervention, harm minimization
Duration: 4-8 hours
Cost: $80-200
Do You Need Both?
Yes, if working in gaming venues that serve alcohol. Many clubs, pubs, and casinos require both RSA and RCG because staff serve alcohol AND work around gaming machines.
Combined Packages: Some training providers offer RSA + RCG bundle packages at discounted rates ($120-250 for both).
Interstate Recognition
Which States Recognize Each Other’s RCG?
Limited Recognition: Unlike RSA, RCG/RSG certificates have limited interstate recognition. Most states require state-specific RCG certification.
Best Practice: If working in a different state, check with your employer or state gambling authority to confirm your RCG is recognized. You may need to complete state-specific training.
National Unit: All states use the same national unit (SITHGAM022), but state-specific content and regulations vary.
Common Questions About RCG
Can I get RCG if I’m under 18?
Yes, you can complete RCG training at any age. However, you must be 18 years old to legally work in gaming environments in Australia, so RCG alone doesn’t allow minors to work in gaming venues.
Is RCG harder than RSA?
RCG is generally considered more comprehensive and detailed than RSA. It covers more complex topics like problem gambling psychology and intervention strategies. However, it’s still accessible and designed for all skill levels.
Can I work while waiting for my RCG certificate?
This depends on your state:
- NSW: Yes, with interim certificate (90 days)
- Other states: Generally need certificate before starting
Do I need RCG to work in a pub with gaming machines if I’m not in the gaming area?
It depends on your role and proximity to gaming machines. Bar staff who work near gaming areas typically need RCG. Check with your employer and state regulations.
Can I do RCG online?
Yes, most RCG courses can be completed entirely online, which is the most popular and convenient option.
How long does RCG take to arrive?
Digital certificates are usually available within 24 hours. Physical certificates arrive within 1-2 weeks. NSW competency cards take 2-3 weeks after applying.
What happens if I lose my RCG certificate?
Contact your training provider for a replacement. Most providers offer free or low-cost ($10-30) replacement certificates.
Is RCG recognized in all states?
No, RCG has limited interstate recognition. If working in a different state, you may need state-specific RCG training.
Tips for Completing RCG Successfully
- Choose a Reputable Provider
Select an approved RTO with good reviews, responsive support, and state approval.
- Set Aside Enough Time
Block out 6-8 hours to complete the course without rushing. RCG is more detailed than RSA.
- Read Carefully
RCG covers complex topics like problem gambling psychology. Read thoroughly to understand.
- Take Notes
Write down key points, especially intervention strategies and support services.
- Use Case Studies
Pay close attention to case studies and scenarios—they help you understand real-world application.
- Understand, Don’t Memorize
Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts. This helps with scenario-based questions.
- Review Before Final Exam
Most courses allow you to review materials before the final assessment. Take advantage of this.
- Keep Your Certificate Safe
Save digital copy and keep physical certificate in safe place. You’ll need it for employment.
Career Opportunities with RCG
Entry-Level Positions
Gaming Attendant: $45,000-55,000 per year TAB Operator: $45,000-55,000 per year Gaming Cashier: $45,000-55,000 per year
Experienced Positions
Gaming Supervisor: $55,000-70,000 per year Casino Dealer: $50,000-65,000 per year (plus tips) Gaming Machine Technician: $60,000-80,000 per year
Management Positions
Gaming Manager: $70,000-90,000 per year Casino Pit Boss: $70,000-95,000 per year Venue Manager: $80,000-120,000 per year
Additional Benefits
Penalty Rates: Higher pay for nights, weekends, public holidays Tips: Casino dealers often receive tips Stable Employment: Gaming venues operate year-round Career Progression: Clear pathway from attendant to management
Conclusion
RCG (Responsible Conduct of Gambling) certification is a mandatory requirement for anyone working with gaming machines or in gambling environments in Australia. Whether you’re a gaming attendant, casino dealer, TAB operator, or gaming manager, you must have a valid RCG certificate to legally work in gaming venues.
Getting your RCG is straightforward:
1.Choose an approved online or face-to-face course in your state
2.Complete the 4-8 hour training covering problem gambling, intervention strategies, responsible practices, and legal requirements
3.Pass the final assessment (80% or higher)
4.Receive your certificate within 24 hours (digital) or 1-2 weeks (physical)
5.Apply for competency card if in NSW
RCG certification typically costs $80-200, is valid for 3-5 years depending on your state, and is essential for gaming industry employment. It’s a more comprehensive and detailed qualification than RSA, reflecting the serious nature of gambling harm and the important role gaming staff play in preventing and addressing problem gambling.
If you’re pursuing a career in clubs, pubs, casinos, or other gaming venues, getting your RCG (and RSA if the venue serves alcohol) should be among your first steps. These certifications open doors to numerous job opportunities in the gaming and hospitality industries and demonstrate your commitment to responsible service and customer wellbeing.
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