If you’re working in hospitality and ready to take on more responsibility, becoming an Approved Manager can be an important step in your career.
An Approved Manager is responsible for helping ensure a licensed venue complies with WA’s liquor laws, including the responsible sale and service of alcohol.
Licensed venues need to have an Approved Manager on duty, so having this qualification can open up opportunities to step into supervisory and management roles.
What is the MLP1 course?
The Manage Licensed Premises (MLP1) course is the training component of the Approved Manager process. It’s delivered by the Australian Hotels Association (WA) and covers the practical knowledge you need to manage a licensed premises responsibly and comply with WA liquor laws.
You must have your Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate to do this course.
The Approved Manager course covers topics including:
- WA liquor licensing laws and your responsibilities as an Approved Manager
- Managing staff and maintaining compliance
- Dealing with intoxicated patrons and underage drinking
- Responsible service of alcohol
- Maintaining a safe environment for customers and staff.
Two-step process
The MLP1 course is one part of a two-step process to become an Approved Manager.
First, you complete the MLP1 training with AHA(WA). You then apply to the WA Government for your Approved Manager’s card. The government application process includes checking your identity and other requirements, including a police clearance. This online lodgement guide explains what you need to do.
Completing the course therefore doesn’t automatically mean you have your Approved Manager’s card. You need to complete the government application process as well.
Note there are two types of Approved Manager cards: restricted and unrestricted. A restricted Approved Manager can supervise a licensed premises for limited periods and under specific conditions, while an unrestricted Approved Manager can fulfil the role without those restrictions.
The type of card you need depends on your role and the circumstances of your employment. If you’re planning to take on regular management responsibilities, it’s worth understanding which option applies to you before you apply.
Training in regional WA
While the MLP1 course is available to book through the AHA(WA) website, face-to-face sessions are also delivered in regional areas across WA.
If you work outside Perth, keep an eye out for a course being held near you. Our newsletter regularly flags upcoming training courses delivered in regional areas, so it’s a useful way to find out when MLP1 training is coming to your part of the state. Or keep an eye on our regional programs page.
Whether you’re already supervising shifts or looking to move into management, getting your Approved Manager qualification can give you another useful credential to add to your hospitality career.
To find out more about Approved Manager training visit the AHA(WA) website.