In order to manage physical distancing prisons are operating longer lockdown hours, he said.

But the easing of restrictions could lead to the need for a longer lockdown, Ms Grayson has warned.

They say it may require a longer lockdown in Victoria with tougher restrictions, and a possible lockdown in NSW.

Jackson, who was more candid than Stuart Nash, said he accepted that a longer lockdown will lead to more unemployment.

Goff said it was going to be tough, but if the community outbreak were to get out of control it would mean a longer lockdown.