Australian foreign policy

Importance of positive views of Australia

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
Importance of positive views of Australia

Question

And now about Australia’s relationships with people from other countries in our region. Do you personally think it is important or not important for Australia to be seen in a positive light by people from countries in our region?

This question was asked in 2012.

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