No it wasn't, it was avaliable before then in many places, but I am sure there were reasons why they could not launch it before then. Maybe it was due to the fact that the game was sold out in many places, so the only way to get it was with a PS3 bundle, so those who were thinking of getting it on the 360 might get the 360 one intead

 @ Darthdevidem, they are not, they are based in Santa Monica

OT: at least Australia get the DualShock 3 before Europe

Australia will get the MGS4 bundle too :

http://www.gameplayer.com.au/Home/NEWS/NEWS/tabid/1482/Default.aspx?CID=95811df1-d13d-47e7-8def-73ed41631bc5
http://www.kotaku.com.au/games/2008/05/actually_mgs4_bundle_is_coming_to_australia.html

MGS4 PS3 bundle confirmed for Australia
Pack to retail for a mere $749!
by: James Cottee 13/05/2008

In a chat we had today with Sony Computer Entertainment managing director Michael Ephraim, the Aussie PlayStation kingpin confirmed that the Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 bundle will definitely be available in Australia.

The pack will go on sale close to or on the launch day of MGS 4, and will retail for $749.

Sony has confirmed that the version of the PS3 console to be included in the bundle will be the current 40 gig model.

We have some developers. Like Auran, part of irrational games, SSG. Some of our developers have been liquidated by the publishers that owned them and Australian developers do outsource work for other companies etc.

Hold on, we get 40gb PS3's in New Zealand for $800! (Xbox360 pro for $550) So you ARE getting screwed. LOL

Sorry mate.

But we are getting it pretty bad still... We pay $538 U.S before sales taxes on the 40gb. And we pay $370 U.S before taxes on the Xbox360 Pro. I think we kiwis are shmucks for buying more PS3's than Xbox360s. Too interested in paying too much money than actually looking for a good deal... geez.