The Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) program in New South Wales has just undergone its most significant update in years. RSA training now includes new modules on preventing and responding to sexual harassment, sexual violence, and drink spiking in licensed venues.
This shift recognises the growing responsibility of hospitality venues—not just to comply with alcohol laws, but to proactively protect the safety and wellbeing of their patrons.
What’s changed in RSA training?
Hospitality staff and liquor license holders in NSW will now be trained to:
- Recognise the signs of sexual harassment and drink spiking.
- Understand the difference between consent and coercion under the influence of alcohol.
- Access and provide support services for patrons at risk.
For venues, this means going beyond basic alcohol service protocols and adopting a more holistic approach to guest safety.
Why additional safety tools are needed
Unfortunately, the updates come in response to worrying data. NSW has seen a sharp rise in sexual offences inside pubs and clubs in recent years, with certain venues flagged as hotspots.
Community initiatives like Full Stop Australia and the introduction of dedicated “safety officers” show just how urgent it has become for venues to provide proactive protection for patrons.
But while training staff is essential, empowering patrons with their own tools for safer choices is just as important. That’s where breathalysers come in.
Breathalysers: A simple, effective safety add-on
Breathalysers like the Andatech Soberpoint offer patrons a non-confrontational, self-service way to check their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC).
This allows guests to:
- Make informed decisions about driving home.
- Reduce alcohol-related risks without relying on staff intervention.
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Feel more confident about their safety in licensed venues.
By integrating breathalysers alongside RSA protocols, venues demonstrate a visible commitment to safety—not just compliance.
Industry leadership: Crown Melbourne case study
Crown Melbourne has already set the standard by installing 22 Andatech Soberpoint breathalysers across its hotels, restaurants, and parking areas. These units are used nearly 2,000 times per month, climbing to over 2,600 in peak season.
This rollout shows that patrons actively want access to reliable, anonymous BAC testing, and venues that provide it can reduce impaired driving and improve guest trust. Read more about Crown Melbourne’s initiative here.
Andatech solutions for hospitality venues
- Soberpoint Breathalyser: Self-service, wall-mounted, tap-and-blow operation. Simple, contactless, and hygienic.
- Soberlive FRX: Advanced solution with facial recognition, SMS alerts, and digital logging for complete accountability.
Both systems help venues strengthen their RSA compliance while giving guests an extra layer of protection.
Build a culture of safety in your venue
With RSA evolving to address alcohol-related harassment, violence, and spiking, it’s clear that venues need more than training—they need tools.
Installing breathalysers is one of the most practical, impactful steps a venue can take to reduce risks and protect its patrons.
👉 Explore Andatech's breathalyser solutions today and lead the way in building a safer, more responsible hospitality industry.
