The Australian National University vice-chancellor Brian Schmit told all staff and students via email to stay home and study remotely from Friday until the lockdown ends.

"Quickly locking down cities and states has proven effective in stopping widespread transmission of the virus," Professor Schmidt said.

"If we all behave safely and follow health directions, we will be able to return to our 'Covid normal' lives as quickly as possible."

The university moved from a blue light on its traffic light system to an orange, meaning all classes are moved online and only essential workers will stay on site, such as those caring for animals.

The head of the ANU's Covid Response Office, Professor Tracy Smart, said the university was prepared for a lockdown.

"Our processes are in place. We're standing down today and support the government because they've done a great job," she said.

The ANU open day scheduled for Saturday will now be held remotely.

University of Canberra deputy vice-chancellor Geoff Crisp said plans to switch to remote learning had been in place since the beginning of this year and these would be activated from Friday.

Professor Crisp said students in the residential halls would be able to continue living on campus.

"We have student welfare and various programs put in place to support students who are on campus during this time," he said.

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The University of Canberra was planning to hold an open day on August 21 but this will now be postponed to September.

"Our preference is always to have an on-campus open day if we can, which is why we'd prefer to postpone ... rather than just have it online," Professor Crisp said.

CIT will also physically close all campuses to students, staff and members of the community during the lockdown.

"As always, the wellbeing of our students, staff and the community is paramount," a CIT spokeswoman said.

"CIT is implementing transition arrangements for remote teaching and learning activities to occur, where possible during this period.

"Key messages and communication for all students and stakeholders will be published on the CIT website. Communication with students about their particular classes will also occur."

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