A .com.au domain name is one of the best ways to establish a strong, professional, and trustworthy reputation for your Australian business. Read our blog post on how to get one!
Step 1: Ensure You Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Registering a .com.au domain is slightly different from securing a general .com domain. In Australia, businesses must meet certain eligibility criteria to ensure that domain names are reserved for legitimate commercial entities.
To register a .com.au domain, you must:
- Have an Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN)
- Be a registered Australian business, sole trader, partnership, or entity with a presence in Australia
- Choose a domain name that matches your business name or is directly related to your industry
If you don’t have an ABN, you won’t be able to register a .com.au domain. Fortunately, getting an ABN is a straightforward process.
Step 2: How to Get an ABN
An ABN is a unique 11-digit number that identifies your business in Australia. It’s required for tax and business purposes, including domain name registration.
You can apply for an ABN online through the Australian Business Register (ABR) website using the following steps:
- Visit the Australian Business Register (ABR) website at https://www.abr.gov.au
2. Click on Apply for an ABN
3. Provide details about your business, including your structure (sole trader, company, partnership, etc.)
4. Answer questions about your business activities
5. Submit your application and wait for approval (this usually takes a few minutes, but in some cases, it may take up to 28 days)
Once your ABN is approved, you’ll be ready to register your .com.au domain name.
Step 3: Research Reputable Domain Registrars
Before choosing a .com.au domain, you’ll need to find a reliable domain registrar. A registrar is a company that handles the registration, renewal, and management of domain names.
Each registrar offers different pricing, packages, and services. Some may include web hosting, email accounts, and SSL certificates, so compare features before making a decision.
Step 4: Choose and Register Your Domain Name
- Avoid long or complicated names that are hard to remember
- Use your business name to make it easier for customers to find you online
- Avoid using hyphens or numbers as they can be confusing when spoken aloud
- Use a domain name search tool to see if your desired name is taken
- Register multiple variations if you can to protect your brand
Step 5: Pay and Wait for Approval from auDA
After submitting your registration, your application is reviewed by auDA (the Australian Domain Administration), the governing body for .au domains.
If your application meets all requirements, your domain will be approved and activated. If there’s an issue, you’ll receive feedback on what needs to be corrected before reapplying
Most registrations are approved quickly, but it’s always best to double-check that your ABN details and business name match to avoid delays.
Step 6: Configure Your DNS Settings
Once your .com.au domain is approved, you’ll need to link it to your website by updating the DNS settings (Domain Name System).
- Log into your domain registrar’s dashboard
- Find the DNS settings or Name Server section
- Enter the details provided by your web hosting provider
This step ensures that when visitors type your domain into their browser, they are directed to your website.
Registering a com.au domain is a great way to make sure your customers see you as a legitimate Aussie business. By securing a professional domain name, you’ll establish trust with customers and improve your brand’s visibility.
If you don’t have an ABN, make sure to apply for one first before attempting to register a domain. With the right planning and a reputable registrar, the process is simple and can be completed in just a few steps.
Now that you know how to register your .com.au domain, it’s time to take action and get your business online!
We offer a range of website design, registration and hosting services. Click here to learn more about our services!