ALMOST two thirds of voters support legalising same-sex marriage, indicating the public is more relaxed with the concept than politicians.

With Julia Gillard to recommend today that Labor change its policy position to that of a conscience vote, the latest Herald/Nielsen poll shows 62 per cent of voters support legalising same-sex marriage outright.

A new poll reveals 62 per cent of voters support gay marriage. Credit:Justin McManus

This represents a 5 percentage point increase in support since the question was last asked a year ago.

The latest poll finds 31 per cent oppose legalising same-sex marriage, a six-point drop on a year ago, when 37 per cent were opposed.