Lowy Institute Poll Reveals Shifting Attitudes and Divided Opinions on a Complex Relationship

Lowy Institute Poll

Australians remain wary of China, with a majority viewing it as a security threat. While attitudes have softened slightly, there is still significant distrust. 53% see China as a security threat, compared to 47% who view it as an economic partner. This is down from 63% in 2021 and 2022, but a shift from 2018 when 82% saw China as an economic opportunity.

51% favor stabilizing ties, while 45% prioritize deterring China's military.

Despite wariness towards China, Australians still strongly support the US alliance. 83% believe it's important to their security, and 63% believe it makes Australia safer from China. However, trust in the US has dropped, with 56% trusting Washington to act responsibly. This is down almost 10% from 2022, attributed to uncertainty surrounding the upcoming presidential election.

68% want to see Biden re-elected, compared to 29% who would prefer Trump.

Japan remains Australia's closest friend in Asia, with 42% nominating it as such. This is far ahead of Singapore (16%), Indonesia (15%), and China (11%).

Support for Australia's bid to build nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS has dropped slightly, with 65% of Australians backing the project. There is also strong support for liberalizing immigration laws for Pacific islanders, with 67% supporting lifting visa restrictions for Pacific citizens to live, work, and study in Australia.