> c) notwithstanding the fact that the renewal was paid now 
> more than 24 hours ago to the 
> registrar the Ausregistry database has not been updated and 
> the domain is not visible.

This would be a function of the efficiency of the registrar involved.
The Ausregistry database update is entirely automated.  The WHOIS service
will indicate the status of the domain name in question.


> 
> And would somebody please explain how it is that Connect West 
> could become the 
> registrar without having any authorisation from the registrant.
> 

This was on the basis that the registrant was listed in the Melbourne IT
system as of June 2002 as using Connect West as its agent to manage the
domain name on their behalf via Melbourne IT's systems e.g they may have
registered or renewed their domain name via Connect West.  It came about
following an auDA directive, after auDA consulted with those companies that
became registrars on 1 July 2002.  After 1 July 2002, auDA advised all
registrants the initial setting for their registrar-of-record in the new
system.

Regards,
Bruce Tonkin
>