Starting your own business is an exciting journey, and choosing the right name is a big part of that process. But once you’ve got the perfect name, the next step is deciding on the domain name that best suits your business. A common dilemma many new business owners face is whether to go with a .COM or .COM.AU domain. So, how do you make the right choice? Let’s explore the key differences and benefits of each option to help you decide.
.COM vs .COM.AU – Our Expert Comparison
Why Choose a .COM Domain Name?
.COM domain names are by far the most recognised global domain extensions used by many of the world’s largest companies and some of Australia’s best-known brands. These Australian businesses include Telstra, ANZ, Qantas and Jetstar.
Many businesses choose a .COM domain extension. They are internationally known and have a rock-solid reputation, and their scarcity adds value to a brand. If you have a global customer base or want to create an easily remembered domain name, then a .COM domain extension might be the best choice for you.
Why Choose a .COM.AU Domain Name?
The major benefit of .COM.AU domain names is that they instantly tell someone you are an Australian-based business and serve Australian customers. As the most popular and widely recognised Australian-specific domain name, COM.AU’s come with an inherent level of trust. There’s a set of criteria that you must meet before someone can register a .COM.AU domain name. The criteria for registering a .COM.AU domain is that you must be:
- an Australian registered company; or
- trading under a registered business name in any Australian State or Territory; or
- an Australian partnership or sole trader; or
- a foreign company licensed to trade in Australia; or
- an owner of an Australian Registered Trade Mark; or
- an applicant for an Australian Registered Trade Mark; or
- an association incorporated in any Australian State or Territory; or
- an Australian commercial statutory body.
The stringent .AU criteria the governing body auDA has in place means that when someone visits a website with a .COM.AU domain name, they know they are dealing with an established business they can trust. When you’re just starting, this added trust factor can be invaluable when someone is unsure about doing business with you for the first time. Google is also known to favour .COM.AU domain names over Generic top-level domains (gTLDs) as it is a signal that the website is relevant to Australians.
The Impact on SEO and Local Search
When considering the SEO impact, the choice between a .COM and a .COM.AU domain can make a significant difference in how your website ranks in search engine results. Google tends to prioritise local content for users in specific regions. If your target audience is primarily Australian, a .COM.AU domain can give you an edge in local search results, helping your business appear more relevant to Australian users.
For businesses with a global focus, a .COM domain may be more beneficial as it doesn’t limit your SEO efforts to one particular region. A .COM domain can help your site rank better internationally, reaching a broader audience. However, combining both a .COM and a .COM.AU domain, as previously suggested, allows you to optimise your SEO strategy for both local and international markets.
Consider Registering Both Domains To Future Proof Your Brand
As your business grows, your domain needs might change. By securing both .COM and .COM.AU domains early, you’re future-proofing your brand. This approach ensures that your business is prepared for expansion into international markets or for protecting your brand name from potential misuse by competitors. It’s an investment that can save you from legal headaches and lost business down the road.
.COM or .COM.AU – Our Personal Recommendation For Your Business
If you have the opportunity, choose both. Having both under your belt is a no-brainer for many reasons. The first is when someone mistypes your domain extension; for example, instead of .COM.AU, you have the option to redirect the person back to the website they’re initially looking for instead of potentially losing that customer to the abyss of the web. Redirecting a domain name can be easily achieved with VentraIP Australia’s free DNS Forwarding service.
Another reason for choosing both extensions is to expand your business overseas and require a separate website for international customers. Having both gives you the ability to serve local customers through your .COM.AU website and serve international customers via the .COM site. Reserving both extensions is also a viable way to protect your brand and stop copycat competitors from popping up and stealing your hard-earned goodwill.
Now that you have a better idea of the contrast between the .com and .com.au extensions, it is the perfect time to snap up your own! Register a domain name today to start your online journey.
Still can’t decide? Our sales team is always waiting to help with the tough decisions. Give us a call on 13 24 85 or send an email to sales@ventraip.com.au.
