China: economic partner or security threat +11 from 2025
In 2026, 61% said China was more of an economic partner than a security threat to Australia.
China
67 questions match this theme. View the archive for more.
- China as a military threat −7 from 2025
In 2026, 62% said it was likely that China will become a military threat to Australia in the next 20 years.
- Australia’s response to a Chinese invasion of Taiwan −1 from 2023
In 2026, 60% of Australians support deploying the Royal Australian Navy, alongside the United States, to help prevent China from imposing a blockade around Taiwan.
- Trust in global powers −1 from 2025
In 2026, 89% of Australians trust Japan to act responsibly in the world, making it the most trusted power six years running.
- Confidence in world leaders −4 from 2025
In 2026, only 21% of Australians have confidence in US President Donald Trump to do the right thing in world affairs.
- Feelings towards other nations +1 from 2025
In 2026, New Zealand topped the feelings thermometer for the 16th year running, registering a warm 86°.
- China: Australian policy settings −6 from 2025
In 2026, 54% say Australia should be working with allies to deter China’s use of military force.
- Opinion on US–China relations New in 2026
In 2026, 64% of Australians say the United States should prioritise stabilising its relationship with China over challenging its role in the world.
- Relations with superpowers: United States and China −7 from 2025
In 2026, only 45% say Australia’s relationship with the United States was more important than Australia’s relationship with China.
- Superpowers in the future −2 from 2025
In 2026, 54% of Australians said ten years from now, China would be the most important and powerful country in the world.
- Threats to Australia’s vital interests −3 from 2025
In 2026, 62% saw cyberattacks from other countries as a critical threat to Australia’s vital interests in the next ten years.
- Trust in China +8 from 2025
In 2026, 28% of Australians trust China to act responsibly in the world.
