Victorian Government Denies Tesla Autonomous Vehicle Trial Amid Safety Concerns

The Victorian government confirmed it never authorized Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology test in Melbourne's Central Business District, despite a viral video showing a Tesla navigating busy streets hands-free. The demonstration, which included executing complex hook turns, violated local regulations requiring special permits for autonomous vehicle trials.

Queensland University of Technology robotics expert Michael Milford raised alarms over the unauthorized test, citing close proximity to pedestrians and heavy traffic as significant public safety risks. Tesla faces mounting scrutiny in Australia over phantom braking incidents and questions about driver responsibility with FSD systems.

While Tesla prepares to launch its supervised FSD feature in Australia, the incident highlights growing tensions between rapid autonomous vehicle development and regulatory oversight. The Victorian Department of Transport maintains it will continue engaging with Tesla regarding proper testing protocols.