Australian Public Opinion on the Israel–Palestine Conflict: Implications in the Context of Arab Revolutions

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between public opinion and foreign policy making in Australia by turning to the findings of a national survey of Australian public opinion on the Israel–Palestine conflict. The survey findings suggest that the Australian government's policy on the Israel–Palestine conflict is inconsistent with public opinion, and such disparity is explained here in terms of the lack of public attachment to the conflict, the limited media and the absence of any notable public advocacy for policy change. This explanation is informed by in-depth interviews conducted with current and former members of parliament and senior public servants. The article also explores the implications of the survey's findings in relation to the significant political changes taking place across the Middle East region. It suggests that these events may be creating an impetus for policy change that endorses Palestinian self-determination, for which there is significant support among the Australian public.

Keywords:

• Australia
• foreign policy
• Israel–Palestine
• Middle East
• public opinion

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Eulalia Han

Eulalia Han is a PhD candidate at the Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University.

Halim Rane

Dr Halim Rane is Deputy Director of the Griffith Islamic Research Unit and Lecturer in the National Centre of Excellence in Islamic Studies, Griffith University.