What happens if I have a cancelled ABN on my Domain?

You may have received an email from us saying that your domain name is not eligible. This can be because the ABN associated with the domain name is invalid or cancelled. These cases generally arise if you move to a new ABN/ACN but do not update the Domain Name as well.

With guidance from auDA we have implemented a change to improve the eligibility validation process, aiming to reduce eligibility complaints and the subsequent potential loss of invalid .au domains.

If a domain name does not meet the necessary eligibility criteria (such as an active ABN or ACN) after an inbound transfer or renewal, we will send out an email to the registrant notifying them to do a Change of Registrant to move to a valid and eligible registrant within 30 days to prevent suspension.

How can I resolve this?

To resolve this, you will need to perform a Change of Registrant to move to a valid/eligible registrant.

You can read more about the Change of Registrant process and how it works here.

What documentation do I need?

In cases where the current Registrant is linked to a cancelled Trust or Company ABN/ACN, supporting documentation will be required. These must be submitted through the online forms after the CoR has been initiated. At least one of the following is required:

Sales Agreement

• A copy of a sales agreement that shows the business was sold or changed hands.
• The agreement must clearly show that the current company/entity was acquired by the proposed company/entity.

Signed Letter on Company Letterhead

• A letter signed on company letterhead stating that the domain name has changed hands.
• If you choose to provide a letter, it must explicitly state the full domain name being transferred from one business to another.

Statutory Declaration

• A Statutory Declaration outlining who the domain should be transferred to and the desired outcome, signed by a Justice of the Peace or an authorised witness.

Other Valid Documentation

• Any valid document that shows the domain name or business has changed hands.

Note: While only one of the above is required to proceed, we recommend providing as much information as possible to minimise any need for our team to request more information.

Where there is a gap between the currently listed company ABN’s cancellation date and the proposed new ABN’s active from date, the registrant must fill in a section noting the ABN/ACN of the commercial entity that held the domain during this time.

If you experience any issues initiating a Change of Registrant or have any queries regarding the process, please submit an eTicket, contact us through LiveChat or call us on 13 24 85.