Information Centre

Basics FAQ

• What is a domain name?
  Beginners guide to web names and the various main types - TLD, ccTLD and gTLD.
• What is the role of a domain registrar?
  A registrar is a very important link between the domain registry operator and registrant. Learn more here.
• Domain name registrar vs. reseller - what's the difference?
  There are some important distinctions between an Australian registrar and a reseller - learn more in this article.

Eligibility FAQ

• Am I eligible to register au domain names?
  Some notes on checking eligibility criteria associated with acquiring Australian name registration
• What Australian domains can't I register?
  There are a few words and phrases you'll need to avoid when searching for and choosing Australian names.
• Can I register an Australian web address without an ABN?
  This is a very common question we're asked - find out the answer here.
• If I am not eligible for a com.au or .net.au, what other .au domain name can I register?
  While .au is certainly desirable for Australian businesses, if it's not available there are other options to search.

Finding And Choosing Names FAQ

• What do I need to know about selecting domain names?
  Our guide contains useful tips to help you in selecting a suitable website address for your circumstances.
• What are some common mistakes when choosing a name?
  Learn about some of the things to avoid when selecting a web address.
• What's the best way to perform an Australian domain name search?
  Just typing website names into a browser isn't a reliable way to find an available name - check out this article to learn why and what you should use to carry out a proper search.
• What extensions should I register?
  With so many extensions available, it can be confusing as to which one to choose - some important advice on selecting the right extension.
• What characters can be used in domains?
  Some guidelines for length and character usage with domain registration and searches.
• Should I use a hyphen in domains?
  The pros and cons of using hyphens when registering your website address.
• Should I use numbers in a website address?
  Some points to think on concerning replacing words or parts of words with numerals
• Should I register a name if the equivalent username isn't available on the social networks I use?
  Getting a domain name and equivalent usernames on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Plus and Instagram can be a little like trying to pick all the winning numbers in a lottery.
• Can I reserve domains?
  In short, no - but there is some further information in this FAQ.
• What is the best domain length?
  A short one is considered best, but there's some important points you'll need to bear in mind if selecting a short address
• Synonyms can be your friend.
  Frustrated in your search for good domain name that's also available to register? Reach for a thesaurus and find synonyms.
• Is there any benefit in registering a personal domain name?
  Why registering a firstname/lastname website address can be beneficial - even if you don't have a current use for one.
• What is WHOIS?
  You may have heard the term WHOIS being bandied about among domain name jargon - so what is it?

Registering Addresses FAQ

• How do I get a domain name?
  To find domain names is very simple these days - here's a quick guide to how to search for, then register an addres..
• Can I register a com.au domain name if it is available?
  Availability and eligibility can be two very different things when it comes to Australian names.
• How do I buy a .au domain name?
  The concept of being able to buy domain names isn't technically correct; but you can certainly acquire one under a lease type arrangement - learn more here.
• How many Australian domain registrations can I have?
  The good news is the sky is the limit - just first check the eligibility guidelines summarised here.
• What is private domain name registration?
  Notes on the private registration feature available with some types of addresses.
• Is private registration available for Australian domain names?
  This feature is not available with .AU domains - check out some notes on why.
• Should I register multiple domains?
  You can certainly register multiple names, but "should you?" is the important question. Learn more.
• Can I register a domain name without buying email services or web hosting?
  Notes on purchasing registration, email and web hosting services.
• Are there any additional charges added to your published price ?
  There are no hidden surprises in our pricing - learn more.

Using Your Domain Name FAQ

• Do I have to use my domain name immediately?
  Relax - you have all the time you want to start using your address - assuming the registration doesn't lapse of course.
• If I register my domain name with you, can I use another web hosting company?
  Information about using a website name registered via our services in association with a hosting account with another provider.
• What is domain forwarding, cloaking, masking and redirection?
  Learn more about methods to point a domain name to a page hosted elsewhere; such as free server space provided by your ISP.
• What is domain parking?
  What does it mean for a name to be "parked" and why should you care about it?

Administering Your Domain FAQ

• My contact details have changed - how do I update my domain name's record?
  Name management information and how to update your contact details.
• How do I "point" a name to a web hosting account?
  Website names need to be 'pointed' before they can be used with a web site - check out this guide to learn how to perform this.
• Can I transfer an Australian domain name registered somewhere else to you?
  Information on transferring domain name management from another registrar to us.
• What happens if I forget to renew my domain name registration and it expires?
  Expiry processes associated with .au and gTLD domain names.
• What do I need to know about domain name security?
  Your website name is an important part of your business, so ensure it's kept secure - check out these tips.

Miscellaneous FAQ

• What steps should I take to enhance information security for my business?
  Good and reliable security comes down to 3 things: be alert, be aware and be advised. Pick up some online security tips in this article.
• How do I regain control of an Australian domain registered by a cybersquatter?
  Notes on taking control of an Australian domain you believe you are entitled to register that is under the control of someone you believe isn't.
• What is the history of .AU names?
  It's been more than 30 years since .AU was born. Here's a very brief look at the Australian ccTLD's history.
• I've purchased a business - is any website address being used included?
  Not necessarily - this article contains important information for Australian business buyers.
• What is the Information Security Standard (ISS)?
  Learn more about the Information Security Standard (ISS) for Accredited Registrars; established by the auDA
• What if I want to change my website address at a later date?
  If you decide to change your website address at a later date, here's some important things to consider.
• Domains and estate planning
  Have you given thought to what will happen to your web name if you should pass away?
• Third Party .AU Domain Name Leasing
  Can you lease an Australian domain name to a third party or lease a .com.au from someone else? Find out more here.
• What is the au Domain Name Supplier's Code of Practice?
  This policy supports competition and ensures minimum standards for dealings with registrants. Learn more.
• Glossary Of Domain Terminology
  Our jargon buster explains some of the many terms used in the industry and help you decipher the lingo.
• 10 Australian Domain Name Myths
  In this article, we bust 10 common myths relating to Australian website addresses.
• What Is My Domain Name Worth?
  Ever wondered what your registered domain names may be worth? The answer is somewhat complicated.
• Miscellaneous FAQs
  Miscellaneous frequently asked questions relating to registration and transfers of .au names

Domain Name Policies

The following rules should be read in conjunction with schedule A of Australian name eligibility and allocation policy rules for open second level domains (2lds)

• SCHEDULE B: Eligibility and allocation rules for asn.au domains
• SCHEDULE C: Eligibility and allocation rules for com.au domains
• SCHEDULE D: Eligibility and allocation rules for id.au domains
• SCHEDULE E: Eligibility and allocation rules for net.au domains
• SCHEDULE F: Eligibility and allocation rules for org.au domains