Domain Name Checker Australia (2025 Guide): See If Your Name’s Available 

Key highlights 

• Understand why a domain name matters to your brand’s identity, credibility and long-term online control.  
• Learn how to check domain name availability using a simple domain name checker and explore name variations if needed. 
• Explore what to do if your domain is taken, including negotiation tips, different extensions and keyword modifications. 
• Uncover the full domain registration process from selecting a domain registrar to securing your domain with privacy protection. 
• Know how to align your domain with social media and protect your brand by checking for handle availability and common misspellings. 

A domain name is the foundation of your online world. Whether you’re starting a personal blog, launching an online shop or creating a business website, your domain is the first thing visitors will notice. It’s not just an address, it represents your brand’s identity online.   

But before you can start building your website, you need to ensure your desired domain name is available. Why? Imagine spending hours coming up with the perfect name, only to find out someone else already owns it.   

That can be a real setback. Checking domain availability upfront with a domain name checker helps avoid legal issues, branding conflicts and potential delays in getting your website live. 

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps about how to check if a domain is available, why it’s crucial and what to do if your ideal domain is already taken.   

Why you need a domain name? 

You might wonder, “Do I really need my own domain name to create an online presence?” Technically, no. There are plenty of free services that let you set up a blog or a basic webpage and give it a name. But here’s the catch: with those free options, your website name ends up being a subdomain of the platform’s main site.   

Instead of owning something like [yoursite].com, you’ll have yoursite.[hostname].com or hostname.com/yoursite. Doesn’t come across as very professional, right? 

Plus, if that free hosting service ever shuts down, your site goes down with it – and you lose your online identity. In the worst-case scenario, you can’t take that subdomain and move it to another hosting platform.   

On the other hand, owning your own domain name gives you full control. It’s your permanent online identity, no matter where you host your site. Once you buy and register a domain, it’s reserved exclusively for your use as long as you keep up with the registration fees (which usually range from one to several years). Just be sure to renew it or it could be picked up by someone else if it expires!   

In short, having your own domain name isn’t just about professionalism – it’s about control, security and ensuring your brand stays yours, no matter what.   

Why is it important to check domain name availability?  

To check if a domain name is available isn’t just a formality; it’s a critical step in establishing your online presence. Here’s why it’s essential:   

1. Avoid legal issues and trademark conflicts  

Choosing a domain name that’s already in use or trademarked could lead to legal headaches down the track. Imagine investing in your site’s development and branding only to get a cease-and-desist letter. A quick domain availability search using a domain name checker tool helps you avoid that nightmare.   

2. Brand identity and uniqueness  

Your domain name is a key part of your brand’s identity. You want something unique and memorable that represents your business or project. If a domain is taken, you may need to rethink your business name altogether. By using a domain finder, you can discover a more unique or creative alternative. 

3. Avoiding delays in launching your website  

If your preferred domain isn’t available, it can cause delays while you brainstorm alternatives or negotiate to buy the domain from the current owner. Checking availability before committing to a name saves time, ensuring you stay on track with your website’s launch.   

How do you check if a domain name is available? (5 simple steps) 

So, you’ve got an awesome idea for your website, but before you get too attached to that perfect name, you need to make sure it’s available. Don’t worry, to check if a domain name is available using a domain name checker isn’t as complicated as it might sound. Let’s walk through the process step by step.   

Here is a short checklist: 

• Brainstorm unique and brand-friendly domain name ideas 
• Use a domain name search tool to check availability 
• Explore multiple domain extensions (.com, .net, .co, etc.) 
• Check availability of matching social media handles 
• Secure similar or commonly misspelled domain versions 

Step 1: Brainstorm domain name ideas  

Before diving into the search, spend some time brainstorming. You want a custom domain name that’s unique, memorable and reflects your brand. It’s like naming a business something that’ll stick in people’s minds.   

If you’re stuck or short on ideas, you can use Bluehost’s domain name generator. It uses AI to help you find the perfect name. Simply describe your website idea and the tool will suggest creative, available domain options.  

• Keep it simple: Short and sweet is the way to go. The easier it is to spell and type, the better.   
• Use keywords that matter: If possible, include a word that relates to your business or niche.   
• Get creative: Combine words or invent something completely new if it fits your brand vibe.   

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Have a couple of backup options ready just in case your first choice is taken.   

Step 2: Use domain name search tools  

Now that you have a few ideas, it’s time to see if those names are available. There are plenty of easy-to-use domain search tools out there and Bluehost is one of the popular options.   

Here’s what you do:   

• Go to domain search tool and enter your desired domain name. The tool will tell you if the name is available or already taken.   
• If it’s available – great! You can register it straight away.   

If your ideal name is taken, most tools will suggest alternatives or other available extensions. But no worries – we’ll get into those next.   

Step 3: Check for domain extensions  

You’ve probably noticed that websites can end in things like .com, .net or .org. These are called domain extensions and choosing the right one can make a difference.   

• .com is the go-to option – it’s what most people expect and you will get many premium domain names under this.   
• .net and .org are also common but often used by tech companies or nonprofits.   
• There are newer extensions like .co or .shop, which might be perfect depending on your business.   

It’s a good idea to check availability across multiple extensions. If .com isn’t an option, another extension could still work well for you.   

Step 4: Verify social media handle availability  

After you check your domain, take a second to see if your preferred social media handles are available too. For example, you don’t want your website to be [mybrand].com, but your Twitter handle to be @mybrand_official93 – hat’s confusing for your audience.   

There are handy tools like Namechk or you can just go straight to platforms like Instagram or Twitter and search for the handles you want. Keeping everything consistent makes your brand look professional, easy to find and trustworthy.   

Step 5: Consider similar or misspelled domains  

Imagine this: You’ve got your domain, but someone grabs a similar one with a slight misspelling. This could confuse customers and might even steal traffic from you. To prevent that, check for similar domains or common misspellings of your name and consider registering those too.   

For example, if your domain is [mybrand].com, you might also want to secure [my-brand].com or [mybrand].net. This helps protect your brand and prevents anyone else from taking advantage of your hard-earned traffic.   

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to find the perfect domain name for your website.   

But what if you’ve come up with the perfect domain name, only to find out someone else beat you to it. Don’t worry- you’ve still got plenty of options. Let’s explore what you can do when your first choice isn’t available.   

Check if your .com.au domain is available today – get a free domain with Bluehost hosting. Start now. 

What to do if your domain name is taken?  

Option 1: Reach out to the current owner  

If you really like that domain name, you can always try contacting the current owner. Here’s how to do it:   

• Look up the owner: Use a tool like WHOIS Lookup to find out who owns the domain. Sometimes, the owner’s contact details are listed and you can reach out directly.   
• Make an offer: If they’re not actively using the domain, they might be willing to sell it. Just be ready to negotiate – he price could range from something small to a fairly steep amount, depending on the domain’s value.   
• Consider a domain broker: Not sure how to handle the negotiation yourself? No problem. A domain broker can help you communicate with the owner and get the best deal possible.   

Reaching out can work, but it’s not always guaranteed. And sometimes, the price might not fit into your budget, so it’s good to have a backup plan.   

Option 2: Go for an alternative domain  

If buying the domain from the current owner isn’t feasible, it’s time to get creative and come up with an alternative. Here’s what you can do:   

• Switch up the domain extension: If the .com version is taken, try something like .net, .co or even newer options like .shop or .online. These can still make your site look professional and might give your brand a fresh twist.   
• Add a keyword: If [mybrand].com is taken, why not try something like [mybrandstore].com or [shopmybrand].com? Adding a relevant keyword can keep the domain unique while still staying true to your brand.   
• Use a domain generator: Use a domain name generator tool that Bluehost offers. These tools take your original idea and give you plenty of creative alternatives.   

Sometimes, the backup plan turns out even better than your first choice. You might end up loving your new domain name even more!   

How to Register Your Domain Name? 

The domain registration process is super straightforward, so let’s walk through it step by step. 

Step 1: Pick a domain registrar  

First things first you need to choose a company to register your domain with. This is where your domain will “live.” One of the most popular and trusted option is Bluehost. It offers various perks, but if you plan to host your website with Bluehost, it’s smart to keep everything in one place.   

Bluehost not only makes the domain registration process simple, but also bundles domain registration with hosting – fewer headaches down the line. Plus, our plan includes a free domain for the first year with its web hosting plans, which helps cut down your initial website setup costs. 

Step 2: Search for your domain name  

Next, head over to your chosen registrar’s website and search for your domain name to double-check domain availability. Since you’ve already brainstormed your options, this part should be quick. If your first choice is taken, most registrars will suggest similar alternatives, so you’ll still have a chance to find something that fits your brand.   

Step 3: Add it to your cart  

Once you find your domain name using a domain checker, go ahead and add it to your cart. You’ll probably see extra options like domain privacy protection. 

Why is privacy important? When you register a domain, your personal contact info like name, address and phone number goes into a public database called WHOIS. Without privacy protection, anyone can access it. That could lead to spam, targeted ads or even identity theft. Privacy protection hides your details and helps keep you safe. 

Other optional add-ons may include added security or email forwarding. Pick what suits you, but there’s no pressure to choose everything.   

Step 4: Choose your registration period  

Now, choose how long you want to register your domain anywhere from one to ten years. If you’re serious about your site, longer is better you won’t have to remember to renew each year. You can also set up auto-renewal so you don’t accidentally lose your domain. 

Step 5: Complete your purchase  

You’re almost there! Now, just enter your payment details and complete your purchase. Once the payment goes through, the domain is officially yours!  

Step 6: Link your domain to your hosting plan  

If you’ve got your domain and hosting with Bluehost, this part is super easy we’ll link it for you automatically. But if you’re using a different host, you need to update your DNS server settings. (usually, registrars provide clear instructions to set up DNS settings).   

Final thoughts  

Choosing the right domain name is one of the most important steps in getting your website live. It’s more than just a name – it’s how people will find and remember your brand. By checking domain availability upfront, you avoid legal issues, delays and confusion with other businesses. 

Now that you’ve got your domain ideas ready, it’s time to make it official. With Bluehost, you can easily check availability and register your domain in minutes. Plus, Bluehost’s hosting plans come with everything you need to launch and manage your site.  

Check domain availability with Bluehost and start building your online presence today. 

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