The Chinese and Australian national flags in Sydney, Australia. [Photo/Xinhua]
A new poll shows that more than half of Australians regard relations with China as more important than ties with the United States. Experts said the findings reflect a growing recognition among Australians that China is not only an important trading partner for Australia, but also a key partner in addressing shared challenges, with considerable potential for cooperation across a wide range of areas.
The annual poll released on Monday by the Sydney-based Lowy Institute revealed significant shifts in public perceptions of Australia's two most important bilateral relationships — those with the US and China.
According to the poll, 61 percent of Australians view China primarily as an economic partner rather than a "security threat", up 11 percentage points from 2025. Meanwhile, Australians' trust in the US to act responsibly in the world has fallen to 31 percent, the lowest level since the Lowy Institute began conducting its surveys.
The poll marked a notable shift in Australian public opinion. A majority of respondents said Australia's relationship with China is more important than its relationship with the US, while 45 percent ranked ties with the US as more important.
