It’s here.
After years of speculation, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology has finally arrived in Australia.
So, what does this really mean for drivers?
What Has Been Released
This isn’t the “hands-off, take a nap” version some imagine. Tesla has launched the supervised Full Self-Driving package.
The system can steer, accelerate, change lanes, merge onto freeways, and even handle city streets. But it’s not fully autonomous. Drivers must remain alert with hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, ready to take over at any moment.
Think of it as advanced driver assistance on steroids, not a replacement for driving.
A First for Local Roads
On 9 September 2025, Tesla FSD completed its first full Sydney-to-Melbourne journey. That’s over 900 kilometres under the system’s control, covering everything from city traffic to long stretches of freeway.
Videos shared online show the tech managing lane changes, overtakes, and tricky intersections with impressive confidence. But it wasn’t flawless. There were still moments where human intervention was required.
This wasn’t just another test run. It marked a milestone for autonomous driving in Australia.
Who Can Access It
Not every Tesla owner can unlock FSD just yet:
- Eligible Models: Most recent Model 3 and Model Y
- Software Update: The latest Tesla operating system is required.
- Availability: Drivers must purchase the package outright or wait for subscription options.
The Price Tag
Tesla has positioned FSD as a premium feature. In Australia, the upfront cost is AUD $10,100. It’s a steep price, but new Tesla buyers receive a 30-day free trial to test it out.
Subscription pricing, which has been popular overseas, hasn’t yet been confirmed for Australia. Once introduced, it could make FSD more accessible by spreading costs across manageable monthly payments.
What This Means for the Future
FSD’s release is a significant step forward. It suggests regulators are more comfortable with semi-autonomous technology and that Tesla is confident its system can handle Australia’s road conditions.
Expect growing debate about safety, driver responsibility, and how the technology should be regulated.
For drivers, it’s a glimpse of what commuting could soon look like: safer, less stressful, and more efficient.
Should You Try It?
If you own a Tesla, the temptation will be hard to resist. Seeing your car handle traffic with little input feels futuristic and surreal.
But remember, this isn’t full autonomy. It’s an incredibly advanced assistant that still needs you in the driver’s seat.