As featured in the latest edition of QHA Review Magazine
Pursuant to the Liquor Act 1992 (Qld), it is mandatory for liquor licensees (if individuals), approved managers, and some permit holders to have a current RMLV certificate.
This is particularly relevant for commercial hotels, which are run by an individual licensee or have management in place.
What is a RMLV course/certificate
A RMLV course is a training program that is a minimum of ten hours in length, taught in person or online, and delivered by an OLGR approved trainer.
The RMLV course covers topics such as:
- the legislative framework which licensed venues operate (and how to comply);
- the effects of alcohol on the body and general wellbeing;
- the types of licences and permits available and the differences between them;
- how to read and understand a licence document, trading hours, and trading conditions;
- RSA strategies that should be implemented to reduce the alcohol related harm;
- how to monitor and mitigate the impact of noise;
- best practice management and patron management strategies;
- familiarisation with support services for patrons as well as services such as liquor accords;
- identifying and managing risks associated with the management of licensed venues; and
- the benefits of good management practices.
You should note the RMLV course removes duplication as those who have completed the course are exempt from being required to obtain a responsible service of alcohol (RSA) qualification.
Renewal and currency
When an RMLV course is successfully completed, the OLGR approved trainer will issue a RMLV certificate which remains current for three years.
Licensees/approved managers must ensure that current certificates are held at all times, including scheduling renewals of training before existing certificates expire.
This is critical as a lapsed certificate means that a licensed venue does not have a lawful nominee which is likely to be identified during an OLGR inspection/audit or when lodging an application to vary the liquor licence.
Recommendations
We recommend that licensees/approved managers should:
- keep accurate records;
- maintain a calendar for expiry dates of qualifications and bring ups for scheduling of training prior to those expiries;
- routinely audit records to ensure compliance at all times; and
- keep informed of legislative and policy changes by monitoring updates released by the OLGR or working with your legal advisors to stay ahead.
Final word
As you would be aware, running a licensed venue in Queensland comes with extensive obligations and responsibility, if you own, manage, or are considering acquiring a hotel in Queensland, and are wanting advice in relation to the management of that hotel (such as for approved managers or RMLV obligations), or have any other concerns regarding compliance, please don’t hesitate to contact me on (07) 3224 0230 so I can assist you with this.
