A good domain is short, easy to say on the phone and clearly yours. In Australia, a .com.au domain is still what most customers expect from a local business.
Who can register a .com.au
You need an Australian presence, such as an ABN or ACN, and the domain must relate to your business: typically your registered business or company name, or the goods or services you provide. Eligibility rules are set by auDA and can change, so check the current rules at auda.org.au or with your registrar.
Tips for a good domain
- Use your business name if you can.
- Keep it short and easy to spell after hearing it once.
- Avoid hyphens and numbers.
- Don't stuff it with keywords like "best-cheap-plumber-perth".
- Check nobody else trades under a similar name.
Do you need the .au as well?
Since 2022, Australians can register plain .au domains, like yourbusiness.au. It's a separate registration, so owning the .com.au doesn't stop someone else taking the .au. Many businesses buy both and redirect the .au to the .com.au.
Keep it in your name
Register the domain in your business's name, with an email address you control. If a web designer registers it in their name, you could lose it if you part ways. See how to choose a web designer.
Costs
A .com.au typically costs about $15 to $30 a year. See website running costs.
Want this done for you? See our website design packages, or get a free audit.