About .melbourne domain
.melbourne is a geographic generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by ARI Registry Services on behalf of the State Government of Victoria, Australia. It was delegated as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program. The registry's purpose is to provide a distinctive online namespace specifically for entities connected to the Melbourne region.
Who can register .melbourne domain
Registration is restricted to entities with a verifiable connection to the state of Victoria, Australia. Eligible registrants include Victorian government bodies, businesses operating within Victoria, and residents with a Victorian address. Applicants must possess and provide proof of a Victorian address to complete the registration process. This restriction ensures the namespace remains dedicated to the local community.
How to register .melbourne domain
- Search for your desired .melbourne domain name at an accredited registrar to check its availability. Ensure the registrar you choose is authorized to sell this geoTLD.
- Compare pricing, registration terms, and any additional services like WHOIS privacy from different registrars before proceeding. Note that you will need to provide eligibility documentation.
- Complete the checkout process and submit the required verification of your Victorian address as part of the application. The registrar will forward your details to the registry for validation.
- Once your eligibility is confirmed by the registry, you can configure DNS settings and manage your domain through your registrar's control panel.
Typical uses of .melbourne domain
The .melbourne extension is primarily used by businesses, community groups, and government bodies located in or serving the Melbourne metropolitan area to establish a clear local identity online. It is chosen by entities wishing to emphasize their geographic connection to this specific region, promoting local commerce, tourism, and community information. This helps users identify locally relevant services and content, differentiating them from broader Australian or global alternatives.
Tips for registering .melbourne domain
- Registrants must provide proof of a Victorian address to register any .melbourne domain name; the registry validates this eligibility.
- The TLD operates under specific registration policies designed to maintain its local character, which may include periodic audits to confirm ongoing eligibility.
- Standard domain management features like DNS configuration and renewals are handled through accredited ICANN registrars once the initial verification is complete.
Frequently asked questions about .melbourne domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .melbourne domain?
As of today, .melbourne domains start from $38.23/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $116.79/yr across 16 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .melbourne domains?
NameBeta tracks 16 registrars that support .melbourne domain registration, with the cheapest option at $38.23/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .melbourne domain?
The registry for .melbourne domains is Crown in right of the State of Victoria, administered by The Crown in right of the State of Victoria, represented by its Department of State Development, Business and Innovation.
Who can register a .melbourne domain?
Registration is open to Victorian government bodies, local businesses, and residents. To prove eligibility, you must provide verifiable documentation showing an address within the state of Victoria, Australia. The registry performs checks to confirm this connection before activating a domain.
Can I transfer a .melbourne domain between registrars?
Transferring a .melbourne domain between registrars follows standard ICANN transfer policies, provided the domain is unlocked and you have the auth code. The new registrar will also need to confirm your ongoing eligibility with a Victorian address, as the registry's local presence requirement remains in effect post-transfer.
What happens if I move outside of Victoria after registering a domain?
The registry's policies require registrants to maintain a verifiable connection to Victoria. If you no longer have a Victorian address, you may be in violation of the registration agreement. It is advisable to contact your registrar or the registry directly to understand the specific process, which could involve providing updated eligible information or potentially losing the registration.
Are there special dispute policies for .melbourne domains?
The TLD is subject to standard ICANN dispute resolution mechanisms like the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). However, the registry's eligibility requirement provides an additional layer of protection, as a complainant could challenge a registration if the registrant cannot substantiate their claimed Victorian connection.
Can I register a .melbourne domain for a trademark I hold if my company isn't based in Victoria?
No, trademark ownership alone does not confer eligibility. The primary requirement is a verifiable Victorian address. A trademark Sunrise period likely occurred during the TLD's launch, but even during that phase, applicants would have needed to demonstrate the required local presence to complete a registration.
