Defence and security
Defence spending
Defence spending
Now thinking about Australia’s defence capabilities. Australia currently spends about 2% of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) on defence. Taking into account global circumstances, do you think Australia should:
This question was fielded in a separate Lowy Institute nationwide poll between 31 March and 13 April 2025: see 2025 Methodology for more information.
Acquiring nuclear-powered submarines
Acquiring nuclear-powered submarines
Now a question about submarines that are powered by nuclear energy, but do not have nuclear weapons. Are you in favour of or against Australia acquiring nuclear-powered submarines?
Acquiring nuclear weapons
Acquiring nuclear weapons
Thinking now about Australia’s defence. Would you be in favour or against Australia acquiring nuclear weapons in the future?
Australia’s response to the war in Ukraine
The question about ‘Australia participating in a European-led peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, after a ceasefire has been agreed’ was fielded in a separate Lowy Institute nationwide poll between 31 March and 13 April 2025: see 2025 Methodology for more information.
Willingness to defend Australia
Willingness to defend Australia
If Australia were attacked directly by the military of another country, and you were physically capable of doing so, would you be willing to fight to defend Australia?