Suspicion, mistrust and hostility are the messages that China continues to receive from Australia. Admittedly this could be a legacy of the poisonous atmosphere which was fostered by the previous administration of Malcolm Turnbull. But the longer this climate of prejudice persists, the more it will erode the basis for ties between the two countries, according to a China Daily editorial.

The latest Australian accusations are once again targeted at Chinese telecommunications companies doing business in Australia and normal academic exchanges with Australian institutes. Fortunately, not all Australians share that concern or objective. 

The China Institute with the University of Technology Sydney said in a report on Monday that playing up a China threat does not conform to Australia's interests. Even some members of Prime Minister Scott Morrison's government have made favorable remarks on developing ties with China since taking office in August, so bilateral relations are not entirely shrouded in doom and gloom.

More people in Australia need to appreciate that China's continued development is an opportunity, not a threat, the editorial said.