Australians are sounding the alarm on a new kind of threat – and it’s not what you might expect. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as the top concern for both individuals and businesses, overshadowing traditional worries like military conflicts or natural disasters. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: according to a groundbreaking survey by the Australian National University’s National Security College, fears about technology, disinformation, economic instability, and foreign interference are now dominating the national psyche.
In a series of surveys conducted in November 2024 and July 2025, over 12,000 Australians were asked to rank 15 potential threats over the next decade. The results? Eye-opening. When combining “major” and “moderate” concerns, the top five threats in July 2025 were:
- The use of AI to target Australians and their businesses (77%) – a stark reminder of how rapidly evolving technology is reshaping our fears.
- A severe economic crisis (75%) – highlighting the fragility of financial systems in an interconnected world.
- Disruption to critical supplies due to overseas crises (74%) – a concern amplified by recent global events.
- The deliberate spread of false information to mislead and harm Australians (73%) – a timely issue in the age of social media.
- Foreign interference in Australia’s politics, economy, or society (72%) – a worry that cuts across party lines.
And this is the part most people miss: climate change, while ranking sixth (67%), was still considered a “major” threat by 38% of respondents, second only to AI-related fears. Military conflicts trailed behind in seventh place (64%), suggesting a shift in what Australians perceive as the most pressing dangers.
Anxiety about national security is on the rise. In July, half of the respondents admitted to being worried about Australia’s safety – an 8% increase since November 2024. Across the board, perceptions of all 15 threats intensified during this period, reflecting a growing unease about the future.
But here’s the controversial part: while Australians overwhelmingly prioritize safe and peaceful communities (64% when including second preferences), only 15% see strengthening national security as a top priority. This raises a thought-provoking question: Are we focusing too much on peace at the expense of preparedness?
The survey also revealed three other national priorities: increasing economic prosperity (26%), upholding democratic rights and freedoms (23%), and strengthening security (15%). These findings were consistent across diverse demographics, from age and gender to cultural background and income.
NSC head Professor Rory Medcalf summed it up perfectly: “Australians know what they want to protect – peace, safety, community, democracy, and prosperity. Yet, they also recognize that a complex web of emerging threats could jeopardize these values.”
The full research results, set to be released early next year, promise even deeper insights. Meanwhile, the ANU National Security College’s independent initiative has already sparked critical conversations.
So, what do you think? Is AI the biggest threat we face, or are we overlooking other dangers? And how should Australia balance its desire for peace with the need for robust security measures? Let’s debate this in the comments – your perspective could shape the conversation.
