Transferring a .com.au domain to a new registrar is a common step when changing hosting providers, consolidating services, or moving to a platform that better suits your business needs.
Because Australian domains are regulated by auDA, the process is more structured than many international domains. When handled correctly, it is straightforward and does not cause website or email downtime.
This guide explains the process step by step and highlights important details that are often overlooked.
Step 1: Confirm the domain is eligible for transfer
Before starting a transfer, confirm that:
- The domain is active and not expired
- The domain was registered or last transferred more than 60 days ago
- The registrant details are accurate, particularly the registrant email address
- The domain holder meets .com.au eligibility requirements, meaning it is registered to an Australian business, organisation, or trademark holder
- If the registrant email address is incorrect, it must be updated with the current registrar before proceeding, as all approvals are sent to this address.
Important: If a .com.au domain has already expired, it must be renewed with the current registrar before it can be transferred. Expired domains cannot be transferred until they are active again.
Step 2: Unlock the domain at the current registrar
Log in to the current registrar and locate the domain security or transfer settings.
You will need to:
- Disable the domain transfer lock
- Ensure there are no disputes, holds, or restrictions on the domain
A locked domain cannot be transferred.
Step 3: Request the AuthInfo (EPP) code
An AuthInfo Code, sometimes called an EPP code, is required to authorise the transfer.
Depending on the registrar, this code may:
- Be available instantly in the domain control panel
- Be emailed to the registrant email address
This code should be kept secure, as it grants permission to transfer the domain.
Step 4: Initiate the transfer with the new registrar
Once you have the AuthInfo Code, log in to the new registrar and choose the option to transfer an existing domain.
You will be asked to:
- Enter the domain name
- Enter the AuthInfo Code
For .com.au domains, transfers are free and the domain retains its existing expiry date.
A renewal is only required if the domain is close to expiry or has already expired.
Step 5: Approve the transfer request (check your spam folder)
This is one of the most critical steps in the process.
An approval email is sent to the registrant email address to confirm that the domain owner authorises the transfer. This approval is mandatory. If it is not completed, the transfer will fail.
It is very important to note that this approval email may land in spam or junk folders. If the email is missed or not approved within the required timeframe, the transfer will not proceed.
You will be required to enter in your EPP code when approving the email.
Always check:
- Inbox
- Spam or junk folders
- Any email filtering or security tools
Step 6: Transfer completion timeframe
Once the approval email has been authorised:
- Most .com.au transfers complete within one to two business days
- Some transfers complete within a few hours
There is no downtime for websites or email during the transfer, as DNS continues to function normally.
Step 7: Post-transfer checks
After the transfer is complete, it is recommended to verify:
- Nameservers are correct
- DNS records are intact, especially website and email (MX) records
- Registrant details are accurate
- The expiry date remains unchanged unless a renewal was required
These checks help prevent unexpected service disruptions.
Transparency and client control
For full transparency, all domain details are available in our client portal. Clients who wish to transfer a domain away from us can easily access the information required to do so, including registrant details and guidance on requesting the AuthInfo Code.
We believe clients should always have clear visibility and control over their digital assets.
As part of our standard practice:
- Domains are always registered in the client’s name, never ours
- The client’s own email address is used as the registrant contact
- This ensures the client retains full ownership, authority, and control over their domain at all times
This approach prevents vendor lock-in and protects the client’s long-term interests.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Attempting a transfer within 60 days of registration or a previous transfer
- Trying to transfer an expired domain without renewing it first
- Forgetting to unlock the domain
- Missing the approval email due to spam filtering
- Using an incorrect registrant email address
- Failing to check DNS settings after transfer
Final thoughts
Transferring a .com.au domain is a regulated but reliable process when the correct steps are followed. Understanding that transfers are free, retain the same expiry date, and require explicit approval helps avoid unnecessary delays.
If you are unsure about any part of the process, or want assistance confirming your domain details before starting a transfer, professional guidance can save time and prevent issues.
