We’ve recently had a lot of enquiry about .au domain extensions. What is a .au? Hoping this will help clarify some of the confusion.
.au direct domain names – like yourbusinessname.au – are shorter, simpler domain names and are available as a new option for Australian internet users.
A .au is just a simpler domain extension than the .com.au. Both are localised to Australia and suit Australian websites that want to connect with an Australian audience.
.au direct names are general purpose – they’re open to anyone with a verified connection to Australia who wants to create or manage an online presence for themselves or their organisation.
If you hold a domain name in any other .au namespace (eg. com.au, org.au, id.au etc.), created prior to 24 March 2022, you are able to apply for Priority Status to register its exact match in .au direct during the six-month period from launch.
If you want to register the .au direct match of your existing domain name, you will need to apply for Priority Status before 23:59 UTC 20 September 2022 (9:59AM AEST 21 September).
If no priority applications have been made for the .au direct match, it will be become available for registration by the general public at 21:00 UTC 3 Oct 2022 (8:00AM AEDT 4 Oct).
So if you want to add some extra security around your digital brand, registering a .au will stop anyone else from having a domain that could be mistaken for your business. The cost of domains is negligible when you look at the big picture. Potentially losing one sale or one lead is enough to justify this small cost purchase.
Mediamojo are happy to help you secure your .au domains. Give us a call.
Info sourced from auda.org.au
