Chalmers Blames Social Media for Hate as Young Australians See US 2026

Jim Chalmers has blamed social media for fueling a business model for hate as a new survey reveals that half of young Australians now see the United States as a threat. The Treasurer's comments come amid growing concerns about political toxicity and shifting alliances.

The YouGov survey, commissioned by the Australia Institute, shows only half of Australians consider the US a friend, while 42% view it as a threat. Among young voters, just 4% call the US a close friend, and over half see it as a threat.

Chalmers: Social Media is a 'Business Model for Hate'

Speaking at the Political Book of the Year event, Chalmers said overheated discourse on social media is largely responsible for the toxicity in politics, including threats and abuse directed at politicians. He described the platforms' algorithms as a business model for hate that rewards division.

Chalmers' remarks highlight a growing concern about the role of social media in shaping political discourse. The Treasurer's comments align with broader criticisms of how platforms amplify extreme views.

Survey: Young Australians Increasingly See US as a Threat

The Australia Institute survey found that 42% of all respondents perceive the US as a threat, defined as a nation viewed with caution or suspicion. Only half considered the US a friend. Among young voters, the numbers are starker: over half see the US as a threat, and a mere 4% label it a close friend.

This shift in perception comes as only 21% of respondents had confidence in Donald Trump to do the right thing in world affairs. Trump ranked ahead of only Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong-un in terms of trust.

Indonesia More Trusted Than the US

Indonesia, a close geographic neighbor, is now rated a more trusted partner than the United States, leading by 14% in the friend category. This suggests Australians are increasingly looking to regional neighbors rather than historic allies.

The survey also found that two-thirds of One Nation voters perceive the US as a friend, with Coalition voters close behind. Labor voters are largely split, while only one-quarter of Greens voters view the US positively.

Implications for Australian Politics

The findings underscore a generational divide in how Australians view the world. Young voters are more skeptical of traditional alliances and more concerned about issues like housing affordability and climate change.

As Chalmers points out, social media plays a significant role in shaping these views. The toxicity online may be eroding trust in institutions and allies alike.

• Only 50% of Australians see the US as a friend, while 42% view it as a threat.
• Young voters are most skeptical: over half see the US as a threat, and just 4% call it a close friend.
• Indonesia is now more trusted than the US, leading by 14% in the friend category.
• Chalmers blames social media's 'business model for hate' for political toxicity.
• Only 21% have confidence in Donald Trump to do the right thing in world affairs.

What This Means for the Future

The survey results signal a potential realignment in Australian foreign policy priorities. With young Australians increasingly viewing the US with suspicion, future leaders may need to recalibrate the nation's stance on global alliances.

Domestically, the toxicity of political discourse remains a pressing issue. Chalmers' comments suggest that addressing social media's role in fueling hate is essential to restoring trust in politics.

Note: Table data based on survey results; Indonesia's friend percentage derived from 14% lead over US.

FAQ

The survey's findings are particularly relevant as young Australians grapple with issues like housing affordability. A recent report showed that 50% of young Australians live with their parents, underscoring economic pressures that may shape their worldview.

Chalmers' comments on social media echo concerns about political hate speech. As political hate speech fuels real-world violence, the need for responsible discourse is urgent.

Young Australians' financial worries are also a factor. With housing affordability topping their concerns, their focus on domestic issues may influence their views on international alliances. Environmental concerns also play a role, as environmental concerns shape young Australian money habits, potentially affecting their trust in nations with differing climate policies.

The role of social media in amplifying division is a global issue. As Labour's role in rising racism and hate climate is debated, platforms face scrutiny over their impact on society.

For those following the political fallout, Chalmers' comments on One Nation supporters provide further context on the political landscape.