The first political opinion poll of the year shows the federal coalition continuing to hold an election-winning lead over Labor.
With Prime Minister Julia Gillard back at work and Opposition Leader Tony Abbott still on leave, the Essential poll showed the coalition's position unchanged since mid-December on 54 per cent of the two-party preferred vote.
The Liberals and Nationals are sitting on 48 per cent of the primary vote, with Labor on 35 per cent, the Greens nine per cent and independents eight per cent.
Ms Gillard's personal approval rating lifted three points to 37 per cent over the break, while her disapproval dipped two points to 52 per cent.
Mr Abbott's approval also rose three points to 35 per cent, while his disapproval fell two points to 51 per cent.
Ms Gillard led Mr Abbott as preferred prime minister by three points.
