What does it protect?
Domains names are essentially addresses on the Internet. They are the textual addresses for a location on the Internet which correspond to the actual alpha numeric address which the Internet computers can read.
Two of the most familiar types of web addresses is where the domain name is prefixed by “www” (for example www.pyms.com.au) and email addresses where the domain name follows the “@” symbol (for example mike@pyms.com.au) .
What is the ‘monopoly’ right that it provides?
When you obtain a registered domain name, you are provided with a licence to use the domain name exclusively for a specified period of time. In Australia it is necessary to establish a link between your domain name and your business or products and services. There is not the same restriction in other countries eg .com in the US.
You may be eligible to obtain a domain name that matches your registered trade mark or registered trade mark application, even if it is not your registered business name (If this name has not already been allocated).
How is the right created?
In Australia, auDA is the government endorsed policy authority and industry self-regulatory body for the .au domain space. They register and administer all Australian domain names (that end in .au).
Australian domain names have a fixed expiry date 2 years from the date of registration. You can also renew your domain before the expiry date and a maximum of 30 days after the expiry date.
The .au domain name is divided into a number of second level domains (2LDs). Rather then being able to license your name in a 2LD, e.g. “yourbusinessname.com.au” or “yourbusiness.org.au” you may choose “yourbusiness.net.au” or yourbuiness.asn.au” etc.
Each 2DL serves a specific type of enterprise and there are various options. Some are closed to the general public and are only available to specific entities within a defined sector such as government or the community sector. Others are open to the general public, but are subject to eligibility criteria. When it comes to registering a domain name, you can choose the 2LD which best suits your purposes.