Australian foreign policy

Goals of Australian foreign policy

Australians are divided on many of the big questions about our role in the world. Half the country wants Australia to play a more influential role in the world, the other half would prefer Australia turned inwards. The majority of Australians consider democratic values to be more important than economic interests, when prosecuting foreign policy. But most Australians would also prioritise national interests over global agreements, when a clash occurred between the two in a global forum. As great power competition continues to escalate, Australians are divided on our relationship with the world's superpowers. Older Australians say the relationship with the United States is most important, whereas young Australians choose China as a more important partner.

Australian foreign policy
Goals of Australian foreign policy

Question

Thinking about what Australian foreign policy should be trying to achieve, I am going to read a list of goals, and ask you to tell me how important each one is for Australia.

This question was last asked in 2011.

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Protecting the jobs of Australian workers

Helping to prevent nuclear proliferation

Combating terrorism

Protecting Australian citizens abroad

Strengthening the Australian economy

Controlling illegal immigration

Improving Australia's relationships with its immediate neighbours in the Pacific

Promoting Australian businesses overseas

Helping countries in our region to reduce poverty

Tackling climate change

Maintaining close ties with the United States

Seeking a seat on the UN Security Council

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