A new Guardian Essential poll has found that Australians hold a more negative view of Israel than of China, with just 19% of respondents expressing a favourable opinion of Israel compared to 24% for China. The poll, conducted among 1,017 people last week, also revealed that perceptions of US President Donald Trump have declined since his re-election, with fewer than a third of voters viewing him positively.
Favourability Rankings
The survey asked respondents about their attitudes toward several countries, including the US, China, Iran, Russia, Ukraine, the UK, Palestine, and Israel. The United Kingdom received the highest favourability rating at 53%, followed by European nations at 47% and Ukraine at 41%. Only 29% of Australians viewed the US favourably, while Palestine stood at 21% and Israel at a mere 19%. The least favourable ratings were for Iran (11%), Russia (13%), and Syria (15%).
Negative Perceptions
Iran and Russia had the highest percentage of negative or very negative attitudes, both at 57%, followed by Israel at 46%, Syria at 44%, and Palestine at 41%. These findings come despite Israel being a longstanding ally of Australia, though diplomatic tensions have emerged over Australia's criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, as well as concerns about antisemitism in Australia.
Demographic Differences
Women and middle-aged Australians exhibited the least positive perception of Israel. Only 14% of women had a favourable view of Israel, compared to men. Those aged 35 to 54 were the least favourable age group, with 18% positive, while those 18 to 34 were at 19% and those 55 and over at 21%.
Views on Donald Trump
The poll also showed a decline in Australians' favourability toward Donald Trump since he retook office. Only 28% of respondents viewed Trump favourably, down from 36% in June 2024. His favourability among Australians hit an all-time low of 21% in November 2020. Trump is significantly more popular among men (37%) than women (20%). By age, 31% of 18-34-year-olds viewed him favourably, compared to 33% of 35-54-year-olds and 23% of those 55 and over.
One Nation voters had the most positive attitude toward Trump, with 45% viewing him favourably, compared to 34% of Coalition voters, 24% of Labor voters, 11% of Greens voters, and 8% of minor party or independent supporters.
