there are many free domain register companies who can provide u your desire domain name.

You can get a .tk extension for free. But they do place certain restrictions on it like having a certain amount of traffic. So kinda sh1t really. Unless you have a wp or blogspot site that already has traffic. You still need to pay to get the a records changed so yea...paying $10-$20 what's the biggie..

The best reason to pay for your domain is that there is a better chance that your company that you register with is going to be around for the long run. Pricing for domains is very competitive and there are many deals to be had.

It's hard to gauge the reputation of a company until you have personally dealt with them. For our part we love our customers entrusting us with both their hosting and domains. It means we can assist on a greater level than when they are separate - although I can understand the comments above.

We always release domains and hosting accounts if anyone really wants to move away. In fact we often help knowing that they may be a customer again some day. The best thing is to jump in and try someone out.

My advise would be to support Australian companies though. Alot of the overseas big guys will hit you with plenty of extra charges and upsell when the time is right.

I hope my couple of lines helps.

Garth

.com.au is surely good for search engine in your country. It is also, better to go for paid TLDs as you won't get redirection in certain events. I have seen and heard free domains getting lapsed by time.

good information

lol... quite funny for a single domain name...

I agree, and you also have to have an ABN which means more credibility with that domain name.

I agree, use a local company. At least then you have some support power. Cheapest isn't always the best way, especially if you’re only going to save 10 bucks in a year.

I would completely disagree with this.For .com.au domains you have to use an Aussie registrar but for all others, prices in Australia are exorbitant for most TLDs.

You get some pretty good deals overseas. GoDaddy is good. I recently got a .com for $4.95 per year through net firms. .info domains are $2AUD at GoDaddy at the moment. It's a whole heap cheaper overseas and the online support is usually good.

Unlike with hosting, the domain registrars provide more of a commodity, with very little differentiating them.

I think the only way to get a free domain is with certain hosting packages. They are so cheap anyway I can't see why you wouldn't just pay. I have about 10 domains which I plan on holding onto for some time.

Not really a great deal of credibility. Any average Joe can apply for an ABN (at no cost) and register any .au he wishes.

Oh god! We have to wait for another 15 year old to grow up.

[Where's the exasperated emoticon?]

I don't understand?

I guess you right, but it's more credibility than no abn! At least you know the person is Australian and has an address and Tax File number!

Nowadays domain name are cheap, but you should look for extra features. For example, some registrar offer free private whois which is a great idea for those who want to prevent email spam.

I have seen with some registrar that private who is free so it is really good idea.