A new annual survey by the Australia China Relations Institute at the University of Technology Sydney offers fresh insight into how Australians view the world’s two major powers. The findings show a mix of skepticism toward both China and the United States, along with a strong preference for Australia to maintain its own independent path in foreign policy.
The poll reveals that many Australians are cautious about China’s growing global influence. Concerns include strategic competition in the region, questions about political transparency and debates over economic dependence. While China remains one of Australia’s most important trading partners, the survey shows that people increasingly want safeguards to ensure national security and avoid excessive reliance on a single country.
At the same time, the survey shows that attitudes toward the United States have also shifted during the Trump era. Many respondents expressed doubts about the reliability of Washington as a long term partner, citing changes in foreign policy, unpredictable diplomatic behaviour and growing political polarization within the United States. These concerns have led some Australians to question whether the United States can continue to play the stabilising role it once held in the Asia Pacific region.
Despite these reservations, Australians do not see either power purely in negative terms. The poll suggests that public opinion is more nuanced. Many Australians still value the economic opportunities associated with China and the security cooperation traditionally linked to the United States. However, they want both relationships to be shaped by clear national interests rather than automatic alignment.
A key theme in the findings is the desire for autonomy. A large majority of respondents say Australia should avoid taking sides in disputes between China and the United States. Instead, they want the government to make decisions based on what benefits the country most. This preference reflects a wider trend in Australian public opinion, which supports balanced diplomacy rather than alignment with one power at the expense of the other.
The survey also indicates that Australians pay close attention to regional issues such as tensions in the South China Sea, trade disputes and changing security arrangements. People increasingly understand that global competition between China and the United States affects Australia directly. As a result, they want policymakers to navigate these challenges with caution and independence.
Experts say the poll highlights an important shift in how Australians see their country’s role in the world. Rather than relying heavily on any single partner, the public appears to support a more flexible and diversified approach to international relations. This includes strengthening ties with Southeast Asia, Europe and other middle powers that share similar interests.
Overall, the survey’s findings suggest that Australians want a foreign policy that protects national interests, reduces vulnerability and avoids unnecessary entanglement in great power rivalry.
