What is .au Direct namespace?
Well, most of you so far have been using ".com.au" for your domain names (or maybe org.au, net.au and so on).
.au Direct finally launch in March as a new TLD (top level domain). That means you are able to register for domains that only use the ".au" part, for example yourname.au instead of yourname.com.au.
Not only do you further emphasize your Australian services or products, but it's also shorter and more memorable.
Priority Allocation Period
The Australian Domain Administrator (auDA) established a priority period where existing holders of an .au domain, would receive first opportunity to apply for the new exact matching .au Direct domain license, ahead of general public.
This period is ending 20 September 2022.
There are a few steps involved to secure your new .au Direct domain, so do not delay further.
For priority allocation, the new domain will need to be registered under the same owner details as your current matching domain.
Often clients do not realise that their existing domain details are out of date / incorrect and this can take some time to correct first.
Why would you need an .au Direct domain?
It's shorter yes, but more importantly, it's important to protect your brand!
What happens if your competitor or even a random other business starts using it?
Worse yet, if criminals intentionally pick it up to confuse or exploit your clients.
With more relaxed registration rules, au Direct will be open to anyone, even if it's not their business or trading name.
Follow the steps below to get your new domain, alternatively feel free to contact us if you need more information.
You will need to follow these steps for each .au domain you currently have.
What you need to do:
Step 1, Check your current domain's owner details:
https://project.wildeye.com.au/whoisdata/ will show you what they are at the moment. You will need a current ABN/ACN
Step 2, Check your 'owner' email contact:
In your Wildeye Portal account https://portal.wildeye.com.au/
Go Domains >> My Domains, Select your domain and check 'Contact Information' and the 'Registrant' (owner) tab.
You want to make sure that the email is correct
Here is our guide: https://portal.wildeye.com.au/knowledgebase/7/Domain-name-contact-details.html
Step 3, Get your Priority token:
Only do this if you are sure step 1 and 2 email details are correct
From the auDA website, enter your details to have your token issued.
https://priority.auda.org.au/
Step 4, Register the au Direct Domain:
Back in your Wildeye Portal account, on the home screen, use the domain search bar to search your new name and place your order (with your token).
We will monitor the order and if there are any hick-ups we'll be in contact to get it worked out.