Managers Certificate - Liquor Licence

Under the Sale of Liquor Act 1989, there must be a manager on duty at all times on any licensed premises when liquor is being sold or supplied to the public. A manager must hold a current Manager's Certificate. 

There are two types of manager's certificates:  

• General manager's certificate – allows the holder to work as a duty manager in all licensed premises, i.e. restaurants, hotels, taverns, nightclubs, sports clubs etc.
• Club manager’s certificate – allows the holder to work as a duty manager only in a club (i.e. a sports club or an RSA).

Who can apply for a Manager's Certificate?

Any person over the age of 18 years may apply for a Manager's Certificate.  

Applicants need to be currently employed on licensed premises, or in the process of purchasing licensed premises. Applicants are required to complete an appropriate training course under the Sale of Liquor Act - see table below.

Applying for a Manager’s Certificate

Once the course is completed, an application should be lodged, which should include: 

• Licence Controller Qualification
• a letter from an employer confirming they are employed on licensed premises and/or a reference;
• and documentary evidence of this industry experience (if applicable). 

Application for Manager's Certificate  (20k)

Cost

The cost of a Manager’s Certificate is $132.

Processing of the application

Once we receive the application and all necessary supporting documents, a copy is sent to the Police who make a report on the application.  

Our Liquor Licensing Inspector interviews the applicant, and also makes a recommendation on the application. If the applicant is successful, the Manager's Certificate is issued. If the application is opposed it is forwarded to the Liquor Licensing Authority for determination. 

Manager changing premises

If you hold a Manager's Certificate and wish to manage new premises within Rodney District, you need to complete the following form;

Notification of Management Change   

If the new premises are outside of the Rodney District then you should contact the relevant authority in the area that the new premises are located.

Renewing a Manager’s Certificate

A renewal notice is sent out approximately 6 weeks prior to the expiration of the original Manager’s Certificate. 

Application For Renewal of Manager’s Certificate  (17k) 

Licence Controller Qualification Training

The training course for the qualification are external to Council. It is a separate cost to the applicant and is not connected with the fee for filing an application for a Manager's Certificate.