What is a .com.au Domain Name?
Simply put, a .com.au domain name identifies your business as an Australian business.
Countries all over the world have their own domain name endings, for example, the USA domain names end with a .com.
How Does a .com.au affect Search Engine Optimisation?
Search engines will filter and rank results that are country specific. So for example, if you have a web design business and are based in Australia, then Google will prioritise results for website design companies with a .com.au ending. If you business has a .com ending and you are in Australia then your online rankings are going to be below the .com.au results.
Rule # 1 = If you are an Australian company trading in Australia only, then buy a .com.au domain.
Google wants the user to experience the most appropriate search results based on a geo specific location. That is why, if you are an Australian company looking to rank highly, then you must buy a domain name that ends with a .com.au.
If however, your business has an international market, then it is advisable to get a .com ending on your domain. Having a .com ending will identify your business as a global trader.
Can I have a .com.au and a .com Domain Name?
There is absolutely no reason why you can’t have both domain name endings and have them pointing to 1 URL. Purchasing both URL’s are a great way to protect your intellectual property online. But the trick here is not to go to extremes. Buying many domain name endings and pointing them to 1 web address can be perceived as spamming the system and you may end up in trouble with Google.
What Is the Price Differences Between a .com.au and .com Address?
The price difference is minimal. We are talking here of only a few dollars so price should not be a determining factor in your decision making process.