Mind Byte
Choosing the Right Domain Extension for Your Business
Your domain name is often the first thing a customer sees, so it pays to get it right. With so many extensions available, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, so here is a simple breakdown to help you choose.
.com.au and .au
For most Australian businesses, a .com.au or .au domain is the clearest signal to local customers that you are an Australian business. To register a .com.au, you will need an active ABN, ACN or other eligible Australian registration. For .au, you just need to be able to prove your connection to Australia. For help with this, please don't hesitate to Contact Us.
Did you know?
WHOIS privacy (ID protect) is not available for .au domains under current auDA policy, so your registrant details will be publicly visible. This means your ABN, ACN, and potentially name.
.com and other global extensions
If you plan to trade internationally, or your preferred .com.au is already taken, a .com domain is a safe and widely recognised choice. Many businesses register both their .com.au and .com to protect their brand.
Compared to Australian domains, there are little to no restrictions or eligibility requirements for registering a generic TLD (gTLD). This means they are registered on a first come, first served basis. If you've got a great idea for a domain, don't sleep on it!
Frequently asked questions
Can I register more than one domain for my business?
Yes — many businesses register several extensions (e.g. .com.au and .com) and point them all to the same website.
Do I need an ABN to register a .com.au domain?
Yes, you will need an active ABN, ACN or other eligible Australian registration to register a .com.au or .au domain.
What happens if I do not renew my domain?
Your domain will eventually expire and become available for others to register, so it is important to keep your renewal details up to date.