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A .au domain name (such as ‘getyour.com.au’) is an important digital asset that helps people find you, your business or your organisation online and signals to people that you have a connection to Australia. From time-to-time, you may want to register a new domain name and link it to an existing website. This is known as domain redirection or domain forwarding. For the purposes of this fact sheet we will refer to it as redirection.
What does redirecting a domain name mean?
Redirecting a domain name allows registrants (domain name licence holders) to redirect internet users from one domain name they hold to a website connected to another domain name they hold.
For example:
- A registrant holds a licence for the domain name getyour.com.au. They operate their business website via the URL www.getyour.com.au
- The registrant decides to register a new domain name, getyour.net.au. They decide to continue using their existing website for all online business
- The registrant enables domain redirection so that internet users who type www.getyour.net.au into a search engine will be automatically redirected to the website www.getyour.com.au.
Will redirecting a domain name confuse internet users?
No. Internet users will not be impacted by the domain name redirection.
When domain name redirection is enabled by the registrant, internet users will automatically be taken to the selected website as the redirection takes place “behind the scenes”. Redirection can reduce complexity by removing the need for duplicate websites.
What are the benefits of redirecting a domain name?
Redirecting a domain name enables you to hold more than one domain name while maintaining a single website or online presence.
You may choose to register more than one domain name to reach a wider audience, enhance your brand, or take advantage of a new product or event.
For example:
- A registrant chooses to register a new .au direct domain name (getyour.au) as it is shorter and simpler, making it easier to type on mobile devices
- The registrant decides to use their new .au direct domain name in marketing materials and redirect it to their existing website (getyour.com.au).
- Once the registrar has processed the registrant's request to redirect their new domain name, all traffic to getyour.au will be redirected to getyour.com.au.
How do I redirect a domain name?
You can set up domain name redirection via your registrar. Your registrar’s website will outline the steps you need to take. If you are unsure of the process, contact your registrar for assistance.
It is important to maintain valid licences for all domain names you are using and redirecting. If your domain name licence expires, it will be removed from the registry and become available to be registered by the public on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I change or remove the redirection once it is in place?
Yes. You can change or remove the redirection at any time by following the steps outlined by your registrar, or by contacting your registrar.
What different types of redirection are available?
Permanent Redirection
Permanent redirection can be used when you would like the redirection to remain in place for the foreseeable future.
Temporary Redirection
Temporary redirection can be used when you wish to redirect your website users for a short period of time (i.e. during website maintenance or a special event).
Category: Fact sheets
