A Defence spokesperson said Defence is following whole-of-government guidance from the Department of Health in relation to COVID-19.

"As Defence continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation, our priority is the health and wellbeing of personnel and mitigating any further spread," the spokesperson said.

"As the situation evolves, Defence is ensuring appropriate plans are in place for all personnel, defence, civilians and contractors.

"This is integrated into all planning, both in Australia and on operations."

Locally, Defence would not reveal the status of the various Royal Australian Navy squadrons flying out of HMAS Albatross, but it is understood the squadrons are flying as normal.

The Fleet Air Arm operates a number of squadrons from the Nowra Hill base including the MH-60 Romeo helicopters at 816 Squadron, the MRH-90 Taipan helicopters at 808 Squadron and the EC-135T2+ helicopters from 723 Squadron which is also the Joint Helicopter School.

The unmanned aerial systems, 822X Squadron, also operates from the base.

"As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, navy is continuing to assess and adjust a range of plans and commitments including training, exercises and operations," the spokesperson said.

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Defence did not comment on the status of the officer training school HMAS Creswell at Jervis Bay and the Army's Parachute Training School at Nowra Hill.

"At sea, health threats including communicable diseases like COVID-19, are deliberately considered as part of force health protection," the spokesperson said.

"Major Fleet Units deploy with a medical officer or an appropriately trained medical team who are capable of screening and providing care to any personnel with symptoms.

"Navy members returning from operations and exercises abroad are subject to quarantine and protective measures as directed by the Australian Border Force and the Department of Health."

In line with Australian Government restrictions, Defence has ordered all Defence gyms to close and food services to be takeaway only operations.

The measures have been implemented to ensure full compliance with Australian Government health guidelines, while Defence had already implemented social distancing and other preventative measures in line with whole-of-government advice.

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