Research from left-wing think tank The Australia Institute found 63 per cent of people said Australian society has become more unequal over the last decade, including 32 per cent who said it had become "a lot" more unequal.

"Inequality is a growing problem for all Australians," institute executive director Ben Oquist said.

"Our research shows that higher rates of inequality lead to both slower economic growth and a more divided community."

A further 79 per cent of people believe governments should be doing more to fix inequality.

Paul Barratt, a former top bureaucrat and Business Council of Australia executive director, said people's productivity depended on how well they were trained, led and equipped.

"We need to reintroduce the concept of the living wage. Any business that depends upon paying its employees less than a living wage lacks a sustainable business model," Professor Barratt said.

"To mitigate inequality, we must recognise the benefit of investing in people: education, vocational training, improved access to health care, public housing and a decent living standard for those who find themselves unemployed."

The research from the institute and Australia21 includes recommendations for a human rights charter to guarantee access to food, shelter, clothing, health and education.

It also recommends creating an Office of the Evaluator General to monitor progress on economic inequality, and require all cabinet submissions and legislation briefs to include "inequality impact" statements.

The Australia Institute conducted a national survey of 1449 people in August.

Australian Associated Press