Register a domain
How to get a domain name
Getting your own domain is straightforward once you know the steps. This guide covers where to get a website domain, what you will pay, and what to do if the name you want is already taken. New here? Read what a domain name is first.
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How it works
How to get your own domain name
Whether you need a domain for your website or your business, the process is the same. Follow these steps to buy and own a domain name.
- 01
1. Choose your domain name
Pick something short, easy to spell, and close to your business name. Australian businesses often use .com.au. Check that the name is available before you get attached to it.
- 02
2. Pick a registrar
A registrar is where you buy and renew the domain. Common options in Australia include VentraIP, Crazy Domains, GoDaddy, and Namecheap. Compare renewal prices, not just the first-year promo rate.
- 03
3. Search and register
Search for your name on the registrar site. If it is available, add it to cart and complete checkout. For .com.au domains you will usually need an Australian Business Number (ABN) or eligible business details.
- 04
4. Set up auto-renewal
Domains are rented yearly, not bought forever. Turn on auto-renewal so you do not lose the name if a reminder email goes to spam. Losing a domain can take your email and website offline.
- 05
5. Point it at your website
After you register, you connect the domain to your hosting through DNS settings. That is the step most people find tricky. See our guide on what to do after you buy a domain, or ask for help connecting it.
Where to get a website domain
You get a domain from a registrar, not from your web designer or hosting company directly (though some bundle all three in one checkout).
For Australian businesses, .com.au is the most trusted option. See our guide on how to register a .com.au domain for ABN eligibility and step-by-step au registration. Global extensions like .com and .net are also fine if you operate internationally.
Shop on total cost over two or three years. First-year discounts are common; renewal price is what matters long term. Avoid registrars that bury high renewal fees or push unnecessary add-ons at checkout.
How much does a domain name cost?
Budget roughly $15 to $50 AUD per year for a standard .com.au or .com through a registrar. Renewal is often more than the first-year promo, so compare long-term price before you buy.
That is separate from your website build and hosting. See our guide on how much a domain name costs for price ranges, renewal traps, and how to check domain price before checkout.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Ready when you are
Got your domain?
The next step is pointing it at your website and hosting. I can help with DNS if you would rather not touch the control panel yourself.
Reply within ~24 hours · No obligation · You own the site