Your domain name is one of the most critical aspects of your online presence. It’s your digital identity, the first impression customers get, and a key factor in your branding and SEO success.
Choosing the right domain name for your business website is more than just picking a name you like—it needs to be easy to remember, SEO-friendly, and relevant to your brand.
At Illawarra Web Design, we help businesses in Wollongong and beyond select, register, and manage domain names that set them up for long-term success. In this guide, we’ll walk you through best practices for choosing a domain name and what to avoid.
Why Your Domain Name Matters
Your domain name is more than just your website address—it impacts:
- Branding – A strong domain makes your business memorable.
- SEO & Search Rankings – A relevant domain can improve your Google visibility.
- Trust & Credibility – A professional domain name builds customer confidence.
- Email & Marketing – A custom domain makes your business look professional (e.g., [email protected] instead of [email protected]).
For example, a plumber in Wollongong would benefit more from wollongongplumbing.com.au than something vague like bestplumber123.com.
How to Choose the Best Domain Name for Your Business
Keep It Short, Simple & Easy to Spell
A short and simple domain is easier to type, say, and remember.
- Avoid long and complicated names.
- Keep it to two or three words if possible.
- Avoid numbers, hyphens, or unusual spellings.
For example:
- Complicated: Wollongong-Plumbing-and-Gas-Repairs.com.au
- Simple: WollongongPlumbing.com.au
Use Your Business Name (If Available)
Your business name should be the first choice for your domain name.
- If your business is Ocean Café Wollongong, try OceanCafe.com.au.
- If that’s taken, consider variations like OceanCafeWollongong.com.au.
If your exact business name is unavailable, consider adding:
- Your location (e.g., wollongong, nsw, australia).
- Your industry/service (e.g., plumbing, cafe, webdesign).
Choose the Right Domain Extension (.com, .com.au, etc.)
Your domain extension (TLD – Top-Level Domain) matters.
Common Domain Extensions & Their Purpose:
- .com.au – Best for Australian businesses (recommended).
- .com – Ideal for international or online businesses.
- .net.au – Suitable if .com.au is taken, but less common.
- .org.au – For non-profits, charities, and organisations.
- .co – A short alternative, but not as well recognised in Australia.
If you’re an Australian business serving Australian customers, .com.au is the best choice. It builds trust and helps with local SEO.
Make It SEO-Friendly (But Don’t Overdo It)
If possible, include keywords related to your industry for SEO benefits.
- Example: A Wollongong plumber could use WollongongPlumbing.com.au.
- Example: A web designer could use IllawarraWebDesign.com.au.
Avoid keyword stuffing. Google prefers domains that are natural and user-friendly.
Avoid Trademarks & Legal Issues
Before finalising your domain, make sure it’s not trademarked or too similar to another business name.
- Check for existing trademarks at IP Australia.
- Ensure social media availability to keep branding consistent.
- Don’t copy well-known brands (e.g., AppleTech.com may get you in legal trouble).
Registering a domain that’s too close to a trademarked name can lead to legal disputes and loss of your domain.
Where to Register Your Domain Name
Once you’ve chosen the perfect domain name, you need to register it with a domain provider.
Trusted Domain Registrars in Australia:
- Crazy Domains – Affordable pricing, good for Australian businesses.
- VentraIP – 100% Australian-owned with excellent support.
- GoDaddy – Popular global registrar with easy management tools.
- Namecheap – Good for cost-effective domain registration.
- Google Domains – Directly integrates with Google services.
If you’re using Microsoft Azure for hosting, you can link your domain easily through Azure’s DNS settings.
How to Set Up Business Email with Your Domain Name
A business email (e.g., [email protected]) looks more professional than a free Gmail or Outlook address.
Best Business Email Hosting Options
- Microsoft 365 (Outlook Business Email) – Best for professional businesses.
- Google Workspace (Gmail for Business) – Great for businesses using Google services.
- cPanel Email Hosting – Basic, cost-effective option from hosting providers.
At Illawarra Web Design, we recommend Microsoft 365 for seamless business email integration.
5. What to Do If Your Preferred Domain Name Is Taken
If your ideal domain name isn’t available:
- Try a different domain extension (e.g., .com.au instead of .com).
- Use variations (e.g., wollongongplumbingservices.com.au).
- Check if it’s for sale – Some domains can be purchased from their owners.
- Get creative – Use abbreviations or slight modifications (e.g., “coastalplumbers.com.au” instead of “coastalplumbing.com.au”).
Final Thoughts: Your Domain Name Is Your Digital Identity
Choosing the right domain name is a crucial step in building your business website and online brand. A well-chosen domain helps with SEO, branding, and credibility.
Recap: Key Tips for Choosing the Best Domain Name
- Keep it short, simple, and easy to spell.
- Use your business name or a variation.
- Choose the right extension (.com.au for Australian businesses).
- Consider SEO but prioritise branding.
- Check for trademarks and availability.
- Register it with a trusted domain provider.
If you need help choosing and setting up your domain, Illawarra Web Design can handle everything for you.
Need Help with Your Business Website? Contact Illawarra Web Design Today
Illawarra Web Design provides domain registration, hosting, website design, and business email setup for businesses in Wollongong and beyond.
Get your perfect domain and website today!
Illawarra Web Design
illawarrawebdesign.com.au
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0480 801 174