Pick a name
How to choose a domain name
The right domain is short, memorable, and easy to say over the phone. Here is how to find the best domain name for your business before you register.
- 5/5 from owners I've worked with
- 10+
- Years working on websites
- ~24h
- Typical first response
What working together looks like
- Tell me what's going on. A short reply, no forms or sales calls.
- Honest scope and a clear quote, usually within 24 hours.
- Work done by Charlie. One person from start to finish.
How it works
How to find the best domain name
Use these rules when brainstorming. They work for local trades, professional services, and online businesses alike.
- 01
1. Match your business name (or close to it)
Ideally your domain matches what is on your van, invoices, and Google listing. If your exact name is taken, try a sensible variation: add your city, trade, or "au" for .com.au. Avoid clever spellings people will mistype.
- 02
2. Keep it short and easy to say
You will say this address on calls and radio. Under 15 characters before the dot is a good target. No hyphens unless there is no alternative. Numbers only if they are part of your brand (like 3R Projects).
- 03
3. Pick the right extension
Australian businesses usually want .com.au for trust. Use .com if you trade globally. Avoid obscure extensions (.xyz, .io) unless they genuinely fit your brand and you accept that some customers find them odd.
- 04
4. Check availability early
Search your shortlist on a registrar before you print business cards. Check social handles too so your brand is consistent. If the .com.au is taken, note who owns it before you fall in love with the name.
- 05
5. Think long term
Domains are renewed yearly for years. Avoid trendy words that date quickly. A boring, clear name often outperforms a clever one that needs explaining.
How to get the domain name you want
Start with your first choice and two backups. Register the one that is available rather than waiting for a taken name to free up.
If someone else owns the name you want, you can ask to buy it, but expect to pay well above normal registration price with no guarantee they will sell. For most small businesses, picking an available name and moving on is the practical path.
See our guide on how to get a domain name for registration steps and what to do when a name is already taken.
How to get an unused domain name
An "unused" domain usually means one that is registered but not actively used (parked page, for sale, or forgotten). You cannot register it until the owner lets it expire or sells it to you.
Use a registrar search to find truly available names. Tools like instant domain search let you try many combinations quickly. Focus on names nobody has registered yet rather than chasing parked domains unless you have budget for a premium purchase.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Ready when you are
Picked a name?
Next step is registering it and connecting it to your site. I can help with the website and DNS once you have the domain in your account.
Reply within ~24 hours · No obligation · You own the site