.au Domain Names Overview
The .au domain extension is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Australia, representing businesses, organizations, and individuals with a connection to the region. Managed by auDA (Australian Domain Administration), .au domains are widely recognized and trusted, making them ideal for entities targeting the Australian market. Registration requires a verified local presence, such as an Australian company, trademark, or residency. The domain length ranges from 2 to 63 characters, and registration terms are set at two years. Sub-domains like .com.au, .net.au, and .org.au cater to different entity types, ensuring relevance and credibility. Since April 2021, renting domains is prohibited, and prior rights require an exact match to a registered trademark or company name.
.au Domain Names Facts
.au domains are strictly regulated to ensure legitimacy, requiring proof of local presence or an Australian trademark. The registration process takes about one day, and domains must match the registrant’s name or trademark exactly. Sub-domains like .com.au (for commercial entities), .net.au (for networks), and .org.au (for organizations) provide specialized options. IDNs (Internationalized Domain Names) are not supported. Renewals follow a two-year term, with a 30-day restoration period after expiration. Transfers require an auth code, and ownership changes involve documentation. Domains cannot be deleted early, and late renewals are not permitted. These rules ensure .au domains remain secure and reputable for Australian businesses and individuals.
.au Domain Names Uses
.au domains are primarily used by Australian businesses, organizations, and residents to establish a local online presence. Commercial entities often prefer .com.au, while nonprofits use .org.au. The strict registration requirements enhance trust, making .au domains ideal for e-commerce, branding, and professional services. They also improve local SEO, helping businesses rank higher in Australian search results. Since domains must match a company or trademark name, they prevent misuse and reinforce brand identity. Educational institutions, government bodies, and individuals also leverage .au domains for credibility. The prohibition on domain renting ensures only legitimate entities hold these domains, maintaining their integrity in the digital landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions for .au Domains
What is a .au domain name?
A .au domain name is Australia’s country code top-level domain (ccTLD), designed for businesses, organizations, and individuals with a verified connection to Australia. It includes sub-domains like .com.au and .org.au, each serving specific entity types. Registration requires local presence or an Australian trademark, ensuring legitimacy and trust.
How do I buy a .au domain name?
To buy a .au domain, verify eligibility (Australian residency, company, or trademark). Choose a registrar, check domain availability, and submit required documents (company registration or trademark details). Processing takes about one day. Payment covers a two-year term, and the domain must match your registered name or trademark exactly.
Are there requirements for .au domain name registration?
Yes, registrants must prove local presence (Australian residency, company, or trademark) and ensure the domain matches their name or trademark exactly. Documents like a company ABN or trademark number are required. Renting domains is prohibited, and prior rights are strictly enforced to prevent misuse.
.au Registry Rules and Policies
You consent to be bound by the Registry's Terms and Conditions by registering a .au domain name. The registration, renewal, transfer, and use of domain names within this registry are governed by these terms. Before completing your registration, it is mandatory that you read these terms carefully. Please see our Registry Terms and Conditions for more details. Your domain name may be suspended or deleted without a refund if you don't follow these terms.