Essential Report
Specific Covid-19 concerns
Q. To what extent are you concerned about these possible impacts of the Covid-19?
Very concerned | Quite concerned | Not that concerned | Not at all concerned | Unsure | |
The Australian economy as a whole | 45% | 40% | 10% | 3% | 2% |
General unemployment if companies are forced out of business | 39% | 40% | 12% | 5% | 4% |
The physical health of close family members | 32% | 41% | 19% | 6% | 3% |
My economic situation if I lose my job or have less work | 32% | 26% | 16% | 19% | 7% |
The impact on my superannuation, savings or investments | 31% | 32% | 18% | 12% | 7% |
My physical health and catching the virus | 27% | 35% | 26% | 8% | 3% |
My close family members’ mental health | 24% | 38% | 24% | 11% | 3% |
My ability to buy food and essential items if stores run out | 23% | 35% | 26% | 12% | 3% |
Children’s development by missing out on school | 21% | 31% | 23% | 17% | 8% |
My mental health as a result of social distancing | 18% | 29% | 28% | 22% | 3% |
- Economic issues are seen as most concerning when thinking about the consequences of the Covid-19 crisis. 45% say they are worried about the economy as a whole and 39% are very concerned about general unemployment.
- The top concern for 18-34 year olds was their financial position if they lose a job or work (40% said this was very concerning). The economy (37%) and general unemployment (36%) were also main concerns for this age group. Those aged 18-34 were more likely than other age groups to be concerned about the impact on their mental health (25% to 15%), and that of their families (30% to 21%).
- Concern for children is highest among those in households with dependent children (30% are very concerned).

COVID-19 RESEARCH
Read Essential's ongoing research on the public response to Covid-19.
Essential Report
In this week's report:
- Performance of Scott Morrison
- Performance of Anthony Albanese
- Preferred Prime Minister
- Views towards re-electing the federal Coalition government
- Party trust to handle issues
- Importance of Australia’s international reputation
- Scott Morrison’s impact on Australia’s international reputation
- Views towards Australia’s international reputation
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