The New gTLD program
The New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program 2026 is open for applications from April 30 2026 to August 12 2026. This is the first opportunity since 2012 for organisations to apply for new top-level domains, which refers to the letters after the last dot in a URL (such as .com, .org or .net). Currently there are approximately 1250 gTLDs.
Owning and operating a gTLD gives businesses, communities and cities the opportunity to manage new top-level domains tailored to their culture, location or brand. The New gTLD Program will also offer domain names in different scripts, allowing speakers of any language to access the Internet using their own writing system. This will help more communities access the Internet, promoting digital inclusion and innovation.
The New gTLD Program is run by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). Information on the application process can be found on the ICANN website. For further information ICANN can be contacted at globalsupport@icann.org.
Applicants for geographic names may need to seek advice and support from the appropriate government authorities. If you are considering applying for an Australian geographic name, you can contact gacaustralia@infrastructure.gov.au for further advice.
The department’s role in the Next Round
Once applications are revealed (expected to be in October 2026), the Australian Government will identify applications which impact on Australia’s interests. We anticipate that this process will include consultation with Australia’s multistakeholder community, including end users, industry, the technical community, civil society and academia.
As the Australian Government’s representative in ICANN’s Governmental Advisory Committee, we can submit an early warning, indicating that an application impacts the interests or rights of Australians. An early warning encourages the applicant to engage with us to determine how any impacts can be addressed.
If Australia’s concerns are not resolved through the early warning process, we may work with other governments to protect Australian interests.
If you have concerns about an application which may have a negative impact on Australian interests or rights, you can contact gacaustralia@infrastructure.gov.au.