United States

US alliance: effect

In 2023, the vast majority of Australians (82%) see the alliance between Australia and the United States as ‘very important’ or ‘fairly important’ to Australia’s security, down five points from a record high last year of 87%.

High levels of public support for Australia’s alliance with the United States have been a consistent feature over 19 years of Lowy Institute polling. However, during this period, Australians’ support for the alliance has tended to be even higher during Democratic than Republican administrations.

At the same time, three-quarters of Australians (74%) think the alliance makes it more likely Australia will be drawn into a war in Asia. Six in ten (61%) think the alliance makes Australia safer from attack or pressure from China.

United States
US alliance: effect

Question

I am now going to read you some different arguments about the alliance relationship with the United States. Please indicate whether you agree or disagree.

0%
25%
50%
75%
100%

Australia’s alliance with the United States makes it more likely Australia will be drawn into a war in Asia that would not be in Australia’s interests

2011

2015

2019

2022

2023

The alliance relationship with the United States makes Australia safer from attack or pressure from China

2011

2015

2019

2022

2023

Dashed line indicates change in mode: see Methodology.