Oz elections still up for grabs, though Labor is ahead

MELBOURNE - A poll has found that the elections in Australia are still up for grabs, with Labor just ahead of the coalition with 51-49 on a two-party preferred basis.

The Essential Research poll found support for Labor has dropped one percentage point since their last poll, while the coalition has picked up one point.

In the election battleground state of Queensland, the coalition leads Labor 53 to 47, while in New South Wales the coalition leads 52 to 48.

The poll of just over 1000 people, taken between August 13 and yesterday, found voters’ opinions of Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Labor has dropped sharply during the campaign.

Opinions of Opposition Leader Tony Abbott and his party have also dropped, but by a smaller amount.

In keeping with previous polls, Ms Gillard has a net positive approval rating, while Mr Abbott’s approval rating remains in the negative. (ANI)