Growing Concerns Over National Security in Australia

A recent report by the Australian National University’s National Security College indicates a significant increase in national security concerns among Australians. Conducted between November 2024 and February 2026, the study revealed that two-thirds of respondents expressed worry about national security issues, with a notable rise in anxiety among teenagers and young adults. Specifically, 55% of those aged 18-24 reported concerns about national security, a sharp increase from 22% in November 2024.

The report highlights that 69% of Australians polled in July 2025 believed that the country could be involved in a military conflict overseas within the next five years. This perception of an imminent threat is echoed in the February 2026 survey, where 45% of respondents considered a foreign military attack likely, very likely, or almost certain. Such an attack was viewed as the greatest concern, with 43% of participants believing it would have “major consequences” and 36% deeming it “catastrophic.”

Concerns about domestic terrorism have also surged, particularly following the Bondi attack. In February 2026, 72% of respondents rated domestic terrorism as a “serious” concern, up from 55% in November 2024. Despite these rising fears, more than half of those surveyed felt that Australia was either slightly prepared or not at all prepared for potential threats, including foreign military attacks, severe economic crises, critical infrastructure attacks, or supply disruptions.

The timing of the study's release coincides with disruptions in global fuel supplies due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, which have led to skyrocketing prices. Chris Bowen, Australia’s federal energy minister, announced that six oil ships bound for Australia had been canceled or deferred. He acknowledged that while the government is working to replace these tankers, there would likely be “bumps in supply” in the coming months.

Critics of the government's preparedness strategies argue that the rising anxiety among citizens reflects a failure in national security policy. They contend that the government must take more proactive measures to address these concerns and enhance Australia’s resilience against both foreign and domestic threats.

In response to the findings, Chris Bowen emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring energy security and addressing the supply chain challenges posed by international conflicts. He stated that the government is actively working to mitigate the impact of these disruptions on Australian consumers.

While the report indicates a growing concern among Australians regarding national security, it does not provide specific data on the perceived effectiveness of current government measures to address these issues. Additionally, there is a lack of detailed information on the demographic breakdown of respondents, which could provide further insight into the concerns of different age groups.

• “Bowen said the federal government was working to replace the tankers – with some already substituted – but conceded there would likely be “bumps in supply” in the coming months.” — Chris Bowen, Federal Energy Minister