The .au domain is Australia's official country code top-level domain (ccTLD), complementing existing structured domains such as .com.au, .net.au, and .org.au, which offer shorter and simpler URLs for individuals and businesses.

Australia's domain space originally centered around .com.au and other second-level domains managed by auDA (the .au Domain Administration) since the early 1990s. The introduction of the .au domain was part of a broader global trend toward simplifying domain names, making them more user-friendly and adaptable to modern branding needs.

Main Use & Industry Position

The .au domain is designed to provide a concise, flexible option for Australian entities, including businesses, organizations, and individuals with a verified connection to Australia. Like .com.au, registrants must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as holding an Australian Business Number (ABN) or a registered trademark, to maintain the domain's integrity and trustworthiness.

Comparison to Other TLDs

• .com.au is the long-standing, most popular commercial domain for Australian businesses.
• .net.au and .org.au are generally used for networks and non-profits.
• .com, .net, .org are global domains with no geographical requirements.
• .au is a newer, shorter, and often preferred TLD for its simplicity and memorability in branding.

Pros and Cons of .au

• Shorter, cleaner domain names are ideal for modern branding.
• Maintains trust and credibility via registration eligibility checks.
• Supports the digital identity of Australian businesses and individuals.
• Newer domain, so less immediate recognition than .com.au.
• Strict registration rules may limit some users.
• Potential for confusion during the transition period with existing .com.au domains.

.au is a fresh, flexible domain choice, expanding Australia's online identity options and preserving local domain authenticity.

Those eligible for a com.au or .au domain name must own a commercial entity registered to trade in Australia or a business with an Australian trademark.

When registering your com.au domain name, you must provide proof of this information, such as an active ABN (Australian Business Name), ACN (Australian Company Name), or equivalent Australian trademark.

If you meet this criteria, your com.au or .au domain name must be relevant to your business operations and ideally include one of the following options:

• Your business or personal name
• An acronym of your business name
• Your Australian trademark
• A service or product you offer

Help.com recommends choosing a domain name that includes your brand, is easy to spell and remember, and does not use hyphens and/or numerical digits.