Rudd's popularity takes a hit in latest poll

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's popularity has fallen in the latest Newspoll, in his second worst poll result since 2007.

The first Newspoll for 2010, published in The Australian newspaper, also shows Opposition Leader Tony Abbott's satisfaction rating has risen, with 25 per cent support for him as

better prime minister, an increase from 23 per cent on the previous survey.

Mr Rudd's backing as better prime minister, however, dropped from 60 per cent to 57 per cent, according to the poll.

Primary support for Labor fell three points to 40 per cent compared with the previous survey, while the Coalition was steady on 38 per cent.

The poll also found on a two party-preferred basis, Labor's vote has dropped from 56 to 54 per cent and the coalition has risen from 44 to 46 per cent.