19 August 2018

Registering a .com.au or .net.au domain name for your business may seem like an arduous task but it really isn’t. You just need to make sure you have the right information and meet the eligibility criteria before you get started.

Follow the steps in this blog and you’ll have yourself a .au domain name in no time at all.

1. Register an ABN

Having an ABN (Australian Business Number) or ACN* (Australian Company Number) is a requirement for registering a .com.au and .net.au domain name, as well as operating a business in Australia.

To register an ABN, go online to the Australian Business Register. It costs nothing to register and, provided you supply the right information, it will be available immediately. For more information on registering an ACN, go here

2. Register a Business Name

If you want to trade under a business name rather than just your legal name you need to register a business name. This can be done online through the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC). The cost of business name registration can be found on the ASIC website, and you will receive confirmation in 2-5 business days. You need an active ABN to register a business name.

It’s a good idea to register your business name before choosing a domain name in case the business name you want isn’t available.

3. Choose the Right Domain Name

The best domain names are short and relevant to your business or brand name. Remember Lucy from Lucy’s Homewares a few blogs ago? If she had the choice of lucyshomewares.com.au or lucys-homewares-goldcoast.com.au, she should absolutely go the shorter one that’s most aligned with her registered business name. It’s easier for people to remember and type into their browser.

Check the availability of a .au domain name here or via your favourite registrar.

4. Choose a Registrar

Which registrar you choose comes down to personal preference and needs. Some registrars provide a no-frills service for a budget price, others go all out and provide all the bells and whistles, but this may come at a higher price.

Check out our list of accredited .au registrars.

5. Register Your Domain Name

Active ABN. Check! Registered business name. Check! Your favourite domain name is available. Check! Chosen the perfect registrar. Check!

Now you can register the domain name.

The step-by-step registration process will vary from registrar to registrar, but generally, there will be a search box on the registrar’s homepage. Enter the domain you wish to register, select the .com.au (and the .net.au if you like; so nobody else takes it) and then follow the bouncing ball through the checkout steps. You will be given the option to register from 1-5 years and will be asked to enter your ABN number shortly thereafter.

Once your domain name is registered and ready to use it will enter the .au domain lifecycle—read this blog to understand the renewal and expiry process.

Now: set up your email, build your website, and go do some business!

Have a question or want to suggest a topic for us to cover? Email us at transformationblog@afilias.com.au.

More information on Afilias plc is located at www.afilias.info.