ALMOST every Australian voter backs Julia Gillard's decision to establish a royal commission into the sexual abuse of children but this overwhelming support has not translated into an immediate boost for the government.

The latest Herald/Nielsen poll shows a record 95 per cent of voters support the royal commission, while only 3 per cent are opposed. The Nielsen poll director, John Stirton, said he could not recall a poll issue receiving such universal support.

Labor remains within striking distance of the Coalition but its momentum of recent months appears to have stalled. The Opposition Leader, Tony Abbott, also appears stuck, with personal ratings significantly inferior to those of Ms Gillard.

The poll of 1400 voters was taken from Thursday night to Saturday night. Ms Gillard announced the royal commission last Monday after fresh allegations of abuse in the Catholic Church in NSW.