Community Geographic Names
In November 2002 auDA announced that it would create eight new second level domains (2LDs) for Australian states and territories - act.au, nsw.au, nt.au, qld.au, sa.au, tas.au, vic.au, wa.au - so that Australian geographic names could be used by the relevant local community.
The proposed domain structure is placename.state/territory.au - for example, bathurst.nsw.au or ballarat.vic.au. Use of the domain names will be restricted to community web site portals that reflect community interests, such as local business, tourism, historical information, special interest groups, and cultural events.
auDA made the decision to create the new community geographic namespace on the recommendation of the New Names Advisory Panel. See the Panel's report to the auDA Board, November 2002.
Policy for community geographic names has been developed by a National Reference Group (NRG) of key stakeholders. The NRG also had oversight of the One City One Site Pilot Project involving communities in New South Wales and Victoria.
auDA will use the proceeds of the ballot process for release of geographic names in com.au and net.au to support the implementation of the new community geographic namespace.
To receive further information about community geographic names please email Leonie Parkinson.
