Domain name registration in Australia

In Australia, domain name registration is managed by auDA (the Australian Domain Administration), which regulates the allocation of .au domain names. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how domain name registration works in Australia:

Choosing a Domain Name:

• You need to select a domain name that reflects your business, organization, or personal identity.
• The domain must meet certain criteria, particularly for specific .au domain extensions. For example:
  • .com.au: Requires an ABN (Australian Business Number) or ACN (Australian Company Number), and the domain name must be related to the business name or activity.
  • .net.au: Similar to .com.au, for network-related businesses.
  • .org.au: For non-profits or organisations, you need to be a registered charity or association.
  • .id.au: For individuals (not businesses), usually reflecting a personal name.

Choosing a Domain Registrar:

• You cannot directly register a domain through auDA. You must go through an accredited domain registrar.
• Some well-known registrars in Australia include GoDaddy, Crazy Domains, VentraIP, and NetRegistry. domainsafe can do this for you, too.
• Compare prices and services offered by different registrars before proceeding.

Availability Check:

• Use the registrar’s search tool to check if your desired domain name is available. If the domain is already taken, the system will typically offer alternatives.

Registration Process:

• Once you find an available domain name, you provide your details, including:
  • Your ABN/ACN if registering a business domain (for .com.au or .net.au).
  • Personal details if registering an individual domain (for .id.au).
• Payment is typically required upfront for a set registration period (usually 1 to 5 years).

Completing the Registration:

• After completing the registration and payment, the domain registrar processes your application.
• Once approved, you will receive access to manage your domain’s DNS settings, emails, and website services.

Renewal:

• Domain names must be renewed periodically, typically annually or biannually.
• Failing to renew the domain on time could result in the domain becoming available to others.

Dispute Resolution:

• If a domain is registered in bad faith or infringes on trademarks, you can file a dispute through auDA's Dispute Resolution Policy.

By following these steps, you can successfully register a domain name for your business or personal use in Australia.