From 1 July 2025, the cost of registering and renewing a .au domain name will increase, following an announcement by auDA, the administrator of Australia’s country-code domain. The wholesale fee will rise from $8.45 to $8.64 per year (ex. GST), impacting all .au namespaces, including .com.au, .net.au, and .org.au.
Why Is the Wholesale Fee Increasing?
The increase reflects the growing investment needed to maintain a secure, stable, and trusted .au domain space.
In real terms, this means domain name registrars will now pay more for every domain name they register and renew. While this is a wholesale cost, some registrars may pass this increase on to customers through higher retail prices for domain registration and renewal.
What Does It Mean for You?
If you manage multiple domains, operate an eCommerce business, or rely on your domain name for branding and digital trust, this change could affect your annual domain costs but only marginally.
Here’s what you should consider:
- Budget for upcoming renewals: Expect domain prices to go up in the new financial year.
- Renew early if possible: Some registrars offer the ability to renew for multiple years. Locking in your current rate before 1 July could help you save.
- Review your portfolio: If you hold a large number of domain names, this is a good time to assess whether they are all necessary.
- Watch for registrar updates: Registrars are likely to pass the full increase on, so it’s worth shopping around.
How Does the New Pricing Compare?
The wholesale price of .au domains will still be competitive globally, especially considering the added benefits of trust, local presence, and national governance that come with a .com.au or .au domain.
The new rate of $8.64 per year remains modest when viewed against the crucial role domain names play in brand protection, online marketing, and digital identity in Australia.
What Does auDA Say?
auDA has stated that the increase is necessary to:
The new wholesale price will support continued investment in the .au and auDA’s operation as a self-funding not-for-profit organisation, required under auDA’s Terms of Endorsement.
The organisation has also pledged to remain transparent about how it uses its funding to support the internet community and improve online trust.
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