Do I need a .au domain?

For a number of years now Australian businesses have been able to purchase .com.au domains, providing a signal to consumers that the business they’re dealing with is in fact Australian. It’s something we have always recommended for our clients because it provides credibility as only Australian businesses are able to purchase .com.au domains - and who doesn’t trust an Aussie.

But now there’s a new kid on the block, .au domains. These domains will be available for purchase from the 24th of March 2022. Lucky for you, if you already own a third level domain (for example, kingthingmarketing.com.au), you have first dibs on the matching second level domain (kingthingmarketing.au).

Here are a few reasons why you might consider purchasing a .au domain…

Nabbing the .au domain ensures that nobody else with a similar business name to your own will be able to purchase it. This protects your brand and helps avoid potential customers getting confused if they accidentally end up on another business's website. This is the same reason that we often recommend you purchase both the .com and .com.au domain.

There’s no requirement to have an ABN in order to purchase a .au domain (you still need a physical address in Australia). With this barrier removed it enables individuals with hobbies or personal brands the opportunity to create a website with a local look and feel. No more need to rely on online marketplaces like Ebay or Etsy!

If you’ve ever tried to fit your domain onto product packaging or a business card, you know how difficult it can be! Having a .au domain naturally means that it’s shorter, easier to fit and easier for your customers to type and remember.