auDA APPROVES COMPETITION MODEL FOR .AU DOMAIN

The auDA Board has approved the final report of the Competition Model
Advisory Panel, which recommends a model for the introduction of competition
in the provision of domain name services in the .au domain.

The main features of the competition model are:
* open tender process, to be administered by auDA, for provision of registry
services for .au second level domains (2LDs)
* registry tenderers able to bid for all, some or one of the 2LDs
* registrars to be accredited by auDA
* registrars able to sell domain names in all 2LDs
* technical standards to be imposed on registry
* consumer safeguards to be imposed on registrars and resellers.

Under the model, auDA will no longer operate the AUNIC registry, but will
continue to provide some services in the public interest (for example, the
WHOIS domain name look-up service).  auDA will also be responsible for
regulating industry conduct, including matters such as renewal notices and
advance payment of fees.

"auDA is confident that the model recommended by the Panel will deliver the
benefits of competition to all Australian domain name holders - cheaper
prices, more choice and better quality of service," said auDA CEO, Chris
Disspain.

"The model will provide certainty for industry and consumers alike, by
ensuring a level playing field and setting accepted standards of behaviour."

"auDA would like to thank the Panel, especially Panel Co-Chairs George
Michaelson and David Lieberman, for their efforts in completing this
milestone in the ongoing development of Australia's domain name system."

auDA is aiming to implement the Panel's recommendations by the end of the
year.  A full implementation plan and timetable will be published on the
auDA website shortly.

The Panel's report is available on the auDA website at
http://www.auda.org.au or phone 03 9226 9495.

For further information contact Chris Disspain on phone 03 9226 9495 or 0412
920 408 or email ceo§auda.org.au

12 July 2001


Chris Disspain
CEO - auDA
ceo§auda.org.au
+61-3-9226-9495
www.auda.org.au