Health officials say the nation has only two patients on ventilators, is finding fewer than 20 infections per day from 30,000 tests, and "is in good shape" overall.

"We may see more cases as we relax restrictions but our aim is to make sure that outbreaks are small and controlled," said chief medical officer Dr Brendan Murphy.

With businesses open and public life slowly getting back to normal, there are concerns about public transport. Australia has never advised people to wear a mask in public (initially to protect supplies for health workers) - and says that advice will continue.

While people can wear them, there's no need, Dr Murphy said.

PM Morrison also reiterated interest in opening leisure travel with New Zealand in the near future - and said that travel could even occur sooner than that between Australian states.

Queensland, Western Australia and others have refused to open their borders - despite federal pressure.