A leading voice on infectious diseases says there could be a positive impact on reducing the mandate for Australians who test positive to COVID-19 to isolate from seven days down to five.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed this afternoon the isolation period would be reduced to five days from Friday 9 September, after a meeting of National Cabinet.

Workers in vulnerable settings are exempt and will be required to isolate for seven days.

It was also announced masks will no longer be mandated on planes from September 9.

Earlier Dr Paul Griffin, director of infectious diseases at Mater, told Neil Breen he supported the plan.

“I think it’s a good idea, I mean we do have to support it with the right messaging, and make sure that people understand that that doesn’t mean people aren’t infectious after five days,” he said on Brisbane Live.

“But it’s a pragmatic decision, a good compromise.”

He said people should avoid high-risk settings and wear a mask until seven days.

“I actually think this could have a positive outcome on what we see, because I think for many people the seven days is such a barrier, there are lot of people aren’t testing or coming forward with their test results, at the moment already so this actually might help the situation not make it worse like many are saying.”

Press PLAY below to hear his thoughts on masks on planes and airports