Coronavirus: Call to commemorate Anzac Day from driveways, balconies after services cancelled

Australians are being urged to mark next month's Anzac Day by standing at the end of their driveway for one minute's silence following the cancellation of public events amid the coronavirus outbreak.

RSL Queensland officials say the display would send a message of public support to Australian Defence Force members and veterans.

People can safely hold a different dawn service by standing on their driveway or balcony at 6am to honour the sacrifice of the nation's armed forces, RSL Queensland State President Tony Ferris said.

"This an idea that has gathered momentum in social media, and we agree it's a brilliant way to collectively honour the dedication, commitment and sacrifice of our service people – even though we cannot physically be together," Mr Ferris said.

Mr Ferris said the qualities evoked by the Anzac spirit - ingenuity, humour, endurance, courage and mateship - are more important than ever in times of uncertainty.

"Regardless of the form this year's Anzac Day commemorations take, let's show that Australians will always remember those who have served and sacrificed for this nation," he said.

A Facebook group called 'Aussies & Kiwis for ANZACS', which was set up to "persuade (members) to hold their own dawn service on the porch of their home", had amassed more than 150,000 members.

Anzac Day on Saturday, April 25, marks start of the bloody campaign by Australian, New Zealand and other Allied troops in 1915 to capture the Gallipoli peninsula in Turkey.

This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Marches and midday services in Australia have been cancelled, and International Anzac Day services including at Gallipoli and in France have also been scrapped.

What is social distancing?

 Social distancing involved minimising contact with people and maintaining a distance of over one metre between you and others.

When practicing social distancing, you should avoid public transport, limit non-essential travel, work from home and skip large gatherings.

It is okay to go outdoors. However, when you do leave home, avoid touching your face and frequently wash your hands.

What are the symptoms of coronavirus?

Coronavirus patients may experience flu like symptoms such as a fever, cough, runny nose, or shortness of breath. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia with severe acute respiratory distress.