Trust among Australians has fallen to its lowest point in years, with faith in the nation's democratic operations also significantly declining, according to a report from the Australian National University (ANU).

The ANU's June 2026 poll reveals that average life satisfaction has dropped to its lowest recorded level since consistent data collection began in 2023, indicating the population is "under considerable strain."

Interpersonal trust specifically saw a notable decrease, falling to 5.32 out of 10, a level lower than that recorded during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Professor Nicholas Biddle, head of the ANU School of Politics and International Relations, expressed shock at this decline, noting that ANU has been collecting wellbeing data since 2008, with intensified efforts since the pandemic.

"To a little bit of our surprise, there has been a continuation of these quite volatile conditions," Professor Biddle told AAP. "All of these things you can't predict when they're going to occur, but it's really important to understand the impact which they're having on people."

The perception of how democracy operates in Australia also experienced a significant drop, falling nearly three percent to 62.8 percent. Despite this dip in confidence regarding the delivery of democracy, the report indicates that Australians continue to support democracy as a system of governance. Support for democracy has grown in the past year, rising from 66.9 percent in May 2025 to 72 percent in June 2026.

"Australians are becoming more critical of how democracy is being delivered without withdrawing their commitment to democracy itself," Professor Biddle stated.

The poll, which surveyed over 3,500 adults, found that while overall wellbeing levels remain stable, they are situated at a low base. Professor Biddle emphasized that restoring trust in Australia's democratic institutions requires substantial effort.

"I think if governments aren't seen to be listening and responsive to people's concerns, then that's another way in which trust can be undermined," he told AAP. "The structure of the economy, the structure of key public policy is just not working and there is also a real, genuine external uncertainty which is impacting on people's lives."