A recent Guardian Essential poll indicates that only a quarter of older Australians believe it is possible to prevent the worst impacts of climate change. Conducted last week with a sample of 1,020 respondents, the survey reveals a stark contrast in attitudes towards climate action between younger and older demographics.
The poll found that just 26% of Australians aged 55 and over believe climate change can be mitigated, compared to 50% of those aged 18 to 34. Notably, 39% of all respondents expressed skepticism about humanity’s ability to avert dangerous levels of global warming. Only 53% acknowledged climate change as a reality influenced by human activity, a slight decline from 54% in March 2025.
Shifting Perspectives and Concerns
The poll illustrates a growing divide in perception of climate change. In 2017, 64% of respondents recognized its existence, but recent data shows a downward trend. In October 2021, 59% acknowledged human-driven climate change. This decline in belief coincides with a general sense of pessimism about effective climate action. Peter Lewis, the executive director of Essential Media, noted a prevailing “sense of doom” regarding the effectiveness of climate initiatives.
While younger Australians display more optimism, with 50% believing that climate-related effects can be prevented, older Australians remain more doubtful. Among all age groups, 59% expressed worry about the catastrophic impacts of climate change, highlighting a widespread concern despite varying beliefs about potential solutions.
In tandem with climate worries, the poll revealed that 67% of Australians are concerned about the development of self-aware artificial intelligence, while 62% fear rising inequality may lead to social unrest.
Political Implications and Public Sentiment
The timing of the poll, conducted before Australia’s decision to withdraw from hosting the Cop31 climate summit, adds a layer of political context. Just 38% of participants supported the push to host the summit, while 22% opposed it. The remaining 40% were undecided. Lewis suggested that the decision could be advantageous for the government, particularly for Chris Bowen, who is expected to play a significant role in upcoming climate discussions.
On the political front, the poll indicated a slight uptick in Prime Minister Anthony Albanese‘s approval rating, which rose from 45% to 47%. His disapproval rating decreased from 44% to 43%, resulting in a net approval of plus-four. Conversely, opposition leader Sussan Ley saw her approval drop from 32% to 31%, while disapproval increased from 43% to 44%, leading to a net negative approval of minus-thirteen.
Despite Ley’s declining popularity, she still holds a slim lead among potential Liberal leaders, with 14% of voters favoring her, followed by Jacinta Nampijinpa Price at 11% and Andrew Hastie at 8%.
The poll also highlights a significant public demand for action on gambling advertisements, with nearly two-thirds of Australians advocating for either a total ban or strict restrictions on when such ads can be aired. Specifically, 40% of respondents support a complete ban, while 23% endorse heavy restrictions. Only 9% believe no action is necessary.
Lewis remarked that the high level of public support for regulating gambling advertisements suggests a strong appetite for government action, indicating a potential shift in policy priorities.
As Australia grapples with these pressing issues, the latest poll underscores a complex landscape of public opinion on climate change, political leadership, and social concerns.
