Govt takes Centrelink controversy poll hit

The Turnbull government's popularity has taken a hit in the wake of problems with the Centrelink debt recovery system and MPs entitlements.

A ReachTEL survey, released on Monday and commissioned by activist group GetUp, shows the coalition trailing Labor 54 per cent to 46 per cent, two-party preferred.

The polling of more than 2000 Australians was taken last Thursday, ahead of Health Minister Sussan Ley's resignation.

Nearly half (46.2 per cent) of those surveyed support the government stopping an automated system to send letters about alleged Centrelink debts, while 31.8 per cent oppose the suggestion.

More than 78 per cent of respondents believe the burden of proof should be on Centrelink to verify their debt claims, instead of individuals.

GetUp Campaigns Director Mark Connelly believes the coalition shouldn't be surprised by the results.

"This is what happens when government ministers book chartered flights and go to polo matches with public money, while sending tens of thousands of false debt-threat letters to everyday Australians," he said.

"Treating Australians like crap is going to get you crap poll results."