Australians have some of the highest trust in scientists globally, a new study shows. 

Ranking fifth out of 68 countries surveyed, Australians expressed above-average confidence in scientific competence and integrity, according to research published in Nature Human Behaviour. 

The global survey, which involved nearly 72,000 participants, found that trust in scientists remains strong overall.  

“Counter to narratives of a ‘crisis of trust,’ our findings reveal most people worldwide have relatively high trust in scientists and want them to be more involved in society and policymaking,” says Dr Mathew Marques from La Trobe University.

Globally, no country reported low trust in scientists, with Australia’s score exceeded only by Egypt, India, Nigeria, and Kenya.  

The survey revealed slight demographic variations in trust. 

Globally, women, older people, urban residents, and those with higher education or liberal political views were more trusting of scientists. 

However, in Australia, political orientation had little impact on trust - a stark contrast to countries like the United States, where conservatives often show scepticism toward science.  

While these findings are encouraging, the study highlighted some concerns. 

Globally, only 42 per cent of participants believed scientists are open to feedback or alternative views. 

This perceived lack of openness may feed into a broader disconnect between public expectations and scientific priorities. Defence and military research, for example, was seen as overly prioritised compared to public health or poverty reduction, areas people felt deserved more focus.  

“Younger individuals show lower trust levels compared to older generations. Developing targeted strategies to sustain and strengthen trust across political groups and generations is essential,” says Dr Omid Ghasemi from UNSW.

The study has sparked calls for action. 

Dr Susannah Eliott, CEO of the Australian Science Media Centre, warned of the challenges posed by new technologies like deepfakes and AI. 

“Transparency and source reliability will become increasingly important in maintaining trust,” she said, adding that studies like this should be repeated periodically to track changing attitudes.  

“Trust has to be consistently earned, not taken as a given,” said Professor Melissa Brown of the Australian Council of Deans of Science.

Interestingly, the research also found that religiosity is positively linked with trust in scientists, challenging assumptions about tension between faith and science. 

As misinformation evolves, experts say maintaining trust in scientists will be essential for evidence-based decision-making. 

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