Australians View Regional Neighbors More Highly Than US

A new survey finds that more than 40 percent of Australians consider the United States to be a threat.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Australia and New Zealand

Bold vector editorial illustration of a navigational compass on an abstract surface, depicting shifting national trust and geopolitical direction. — A new Australia Institute survey finds that 42 percent of Australians now perceive the United States as a security threat. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should your nation prioritize ties with historic allies over those with geographic neighbors?

An Australia Institute survey reveals that half of Australians view the United States as a friend, while 42 percent label the nation a threat. The data shows that regional neighbours like New Zealand receive significantly higher trust ratings from the Australian public.

Why it matters

The findings reflect shifting national perceptions, with regional ties consistently outperforming views on the United States. A notably low level of confidence in the current US administration's approach to global affairs further complicates the diplomatic outlook.

The survey results show a 14 percent lead in trust for Indonesia over the United States among respondents. Only 21 percent of participants expressed confidence in President Donald Trump regarding world affairs.

The players

Australia Institute

This public policy think tank conducts research on economic, social, and environmental issues in Australia.

President Donald Trump

He is the current President of the United States.

YouGov

This is a global online market research and data analytics company.

The details

The report highlights a sharp generational divide, with more than half of young voters characterising the United States as a threat. Political affiliation also correlates with these views, as two-thirds of One Nation voters view the US as a friend compared to just one-quarter of Greens voters.

1976: Balibo Five killings of Australian media personnel.
Early 2000s: Asylum seekers travelled from Indonesia to Australia.
2015: Execution of two Australians from the Bali Nine.
June 2026: Lowy Institute released a poll on global trust.
October 2026: Australia Institute released survey results.

Travel Outlook

The survey findings provide a contemporary update to the data established by the June 2026 Lowy Institute global trust poll. This shift in sentiment underscores the evolving nature of international relations for Australian travellers and diplomatic planners.

Travellers should be aware that shifting public sentiment towards foreign nations may impact bilateral diplomatic relations and visa considerations over time. Keeping updated on regional trends can assist in understanding the changing reception of Australians abroad.

The takeaway

Public opinion in Australia is increasingly defined by a preference for regional neighbours over the United States. Readers should consider how these national sentiments influence broader foreign policy and cultural exchanges.