Australia undergoing historic decline in support for multiculturalism amid rising fear and pessimism, poll finds
A new Lowy Institute poll reveals a significant decline in Australian support for multiculturalism, dropping from 90% to 73% in two years. The survey also highlights record-low trust in the United States and its leadership, alongside growing distrust toward China.
Why it matters
This shift indicates a major change in Australian social cohesion and foreign policy sentiment, reflecting broader global anxieties and economic pessimism.
Australians’ insecurities about the world are reflected in the 2026 Lowy Institute Poll, as Pauline Hanson backs a ‘monocultural’ Australia and confidence in Donald Trump declines. Composite: Victoria Hart/Guardian design/AAP/Shuttershock View image in fullscreen Australians’ insecurities about the world are reflected in the 2026 Lowy Institute Poll, as Pauline Hanson backs a ‘monocultural’ Australia and confidence in Donald Trump declines. Composite: Victoria Hart/Guardian design/AAP/Shuttershock Australian foreign policy Australia undergoing historic decline in support for multiculturalism amid rising fear and pessimism, poll finds Share of people who say cultural diversity has been good for the nation plunges from 90% in 2024 to 73% in 2026, Lowy Institute survey finds
The report summarizes findings from a reputable research institute without injecting editorial opinion, though it focuses on a sensitive social issue.
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