The Turnbull government should protect penalty rates in the wake of a Fair Work Commission decision, most voters say.
The commission handed down a decision two weeks ago to cut penalty rates for Sunday work in the retail, hospitality, fast food and pharmacy industries.
It's yet to decide how to implement the decision and Labor says the federal government should act to stop the cuts.
An Essential poll released on Tuesday found 56 per cent of voters disapprove of the FWC's decision, while 32 per cent approve.
Disapproval was strongest among Labor voters, with 74 per cent against the cuts. However 36 per cent of coalition voters also disapproved.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Asked what would be the result of the cuts, 57 per cent said businesses would make bigger profits, while 24 per cent said more people would be employed.
On the issue of whether the government should legislate to protect penalty rates, 51 per cent said yes while 31 per cent said it should accept the decision.
Government frontbencher Keith Pitt, a former business owner, said the decision should stand.
"As a former small business owner, I think we should be out there supporting the mum and dad operators whether it's in retail, pharmacy or at the local coffee shop," Mr Pitt told Sky News on Tuesday.
"They are trying to compete with large corporate entities who have done a deal with the unions at reduced overtime rates for their workers, which make them far more competitive.
"It's absolutely in Australia's interests we address this."
The poll also gave Labor a 52-47 two-party preferred lead over the coalition.
