.org.au Domain Names Overview
The .org.au domain extension is a country-code second-level domain (ccSLD) specifically designated for non-profit organizations operating in Australia. It is administered by the .au Domain Administration (auDA) and is intended for entities that are registered or recognized within Australia. The extension is widely used by charities, community groups, and other non-commercial entities to establish a trusted online presence. Registrants must meet strict eligibility criteria, including having a valid Australian presence or trademark. The domain length ranges from 2 to 63 characters, and registration terms are fixed at two years. Processing typically takes one day, provided all documentation is submitted correctly. Unlike some other extensions, .org.au does not support internationalized domain names (IDNs).
.org.au Domain Names Facts
The .org.au domain extension requires registrants to have a local presence in Australia or hold an Australian trademark. The domain must exactly match, abbreviate, or acronymize the registrant’s name or trademark. Registration terms are strictly two years, with no option for shorter or longer periods. Late renewals are not permitted, but restoration is possible within 30 days after expiration. Transfers require an auth code, and ownership changes necessitate documentation. Notably, renting domains is prohibited, and prior rights must align with the registrant’s name or trademark. The extension does not allow admin contacts to be individuals, only legal entities. These rules ensure .org.au remains a trusted space for Australian non-profits.
.org.au Domain Names Uses
The .org.au domain is primarily used by Australian non-profit organizations, charities, and community groups to build credibility and visibility online. It helps these entities distinguish themselves from commercial businesses, which typically use .com.au. Common applications include official websites, donation portals, volunteer recruitment platforms, and informational hubs. The strict eligibility criteria ensure that only legitimate organizations can register, fostering trust among visitors. Additionally, the domain’s association with Australia reinforces local relevance, making it ideal for organizations targeting domestic audiences. Because renting domains is prohibited, registrants must actively use their domains, reducing speculative registrations. Overall, .org.au serves as a vital digital asset for non-profits seeking to establish authority and connect with their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions for .org.au Domains
What is a .org.au domain name?
A .org.au domain name is a specialized extension for Australian non-profit organizations, charities, and community groups. It requires registrants to have a local presence in Australia or an Australian trademark. The domain must match the registrant’s name or trademark exactly, as an abbreviation or acronym. This ensures only eligible entities can use the extension, maintaining its integrity. Managed by auDA, .org.au is a trusted identifier for non-commercial entities operating in Australia.
How do I buy a .org.au domain name?
To buy a .org.au domain, you must first verify eligibility by proving Australian presence or a local trademark. Submit your registration through an accredited registrar, providing required documents like a company registration or trademark number. Processing usually takes one day. The registration term is two years, with no option for shorter periods. Note that renting domains is prohibited, and the domain must align with your organization’s name or trademark.
Are there requirements for .org.au domain name registration?
Yes, .org.au registration requires a local Australian presence or trademark. The domain must exactly match, abbreviate, or acronymize the registrant’s name or trademark. Registrants must be legal entities, not individuals, and provide proof such as a company registration or VAT number. Admin contacts must also be legal entities. Prior rights are mandatory, and renting domains is not allowed. These rules ensure the extension remains exclusive to eligible non-profits.
.org.au Registry Rules and Policies
You consent to be bound by the Registry's Terms and Conditions by registering a .org.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.