Site search tracking in GA4 involves configuring the platform to recognise and record when users utilise the search function on your website, providing valuable insights into what customers are actively looking for.
- Enhanced Measurement: As of early 2026, GA4’s Enhanced Measurement now features automatic site search tracking for many common e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, provided your search query parameter is standard (e.g., ‘q’, ‘search’).
- Custom Parameter Configuration: If your site uses a unique search query parameter, you’ll need to define it within GA4’s interface under ‘Configure’ then ‘Custom definitions’.
- Search Term Reporting: GA4 allows you to view search terms as dimensions in your Exploration reports, letting you analyse popular searches and identify content gaps.
- Event-Based Data: GA4 tracks site search as a specific event – ‘search’ – allowing you to create audiences and analyse user behaviour based on search activity.
In 2026, Australian businesses need to be particularly mindful of privacy regulations when analysing search terms. GA4’s data anonymisation features are crucial for compliance with Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), ensuring you’re not collecting or storing personally identifiable information through search queries. Current systems include robust consent management integrations to help you stay compliant.
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