It comes as recruits continue to arrive at the base despite the government enforcing restrictions to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Dr McGirr said it sends the wrong message during this crisis and he was "not confident' that the measures taken will restrict the disease to the base.

"At a time when we are asking the public to stop unnecessary travel, it does not make sense to have up to 60 men and women from across the country converge at Blamey Barracks," he said.

"The risk of infection to trainers and staff, who reside within the city is too high and this poses an unacceptable risk."

Riverina MP Michael McCormack, however said the government's first responsibility was the protection of its citizens and the Australian Defence Force was required to assist as the crisis continues.

The Deputy Prime Minister said it was "vitally important" the army recruit training centre remained as functional as possible.

Mr McCormack said all new recruits will go through a "rigorous testing and screening process" before and on arrival at the base where they will then be isolated for the first 14 days of training.

He said other measures were in place to reduce any risks.

Former senior doctor at Kapooka Elaine McLaren said it was "irresponsible" to move recruits across borders at this time.

She said the ADF will "kill more civilians than save" if they continue down this track.

Dr McLaren said the "lethal infection" could inadvertently be passed onto permanent defence staff residing in the city, making Wagga a hot spot for coronavirus.

She made a plea to the ADF to stop recruits training for two months to flatten the curve.

"Their role is to save lives and they are putting Australian lives unnecessarily at risk," she said.

A defence spokesperson said it has implemented measures in line with whole-of-government advice in response to COVID-19 to ensure the health and safety personnel.

"This includes adhering to all health guidelines in regard to social distancing and restrictions on social gatherings," they said.

"Defence is fully committed to adhering to the public health guidelines to minimise transmission of COVID-19 and is directly engaged with public health authorities to ensure we are taking measures to reduce transmission as early as possible."

The spokesperson said the Australian Army is continuing to train new recruits at Kapooka to ensure current and future capability.

Those suffering acute, cold, flu-like symptoms who have recently returned from travelling or are a contact of a confirmed case are urged to be tested for the virus.

To do this, call HealthDirect on 1800 0222 222 to be triaged and advised by a nurse over the phone.

Alternatively, contact your GP to book an appointment and let them know in advance if you have symptoms - these might include fever, cough, runny nose or shortness of breath.

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