After announcing an immediate ban on clubs training on Tuesday, NSW Rugby League will postpone all community football until at least May 1.

Group 9's pre-season nines event has already been cancelled for next weekend however with the latest news president Peter McDermott is hoping the impact can be limited.

"You would like to think everything would be pretty well contained by then but you don't know," McDermott said.

"The government is panicking a fair bit .... but it could be business as normal.

"I don't think it will have too much of an impact if it all stays the same."

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After Group 9 clubs made the decision to cut the season from a full home and away draw to 16 rounds, the season was set to start on April 18.

In the best case scenario only two rounds would be affected.

McDermott will speak to clubs as to how approach the situation given the latest advice.

He hopes to be able to deliver them a few options.

However with a general bye and a split round in the draw McDermott said time could be made up to remain at the current length.

The grand final is set down for September 12 but with representative football planned in the weeks following pushing that back could be an obstacle.

"We will have to have a look at it and work our way around it," he said.

"We will worry about our group first and go from there."

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The ban covers all grassroots rugby league from under sixes through to seniors.

NSWRL's recommendation covers all games, trials, training, courses and other club activities but given the fluidity of the situation decisions are subject to change.

"Above all else, our priority is to protect the health and safety of our players, officials, staff and supporters, as well as the broader community," chief executive David Trodden said.

"The situation regarding COVID-19 continues to change daily and we are very mindful of the need to be prepared, and take the practical, necessary measures required to maintain hygiene standards.

"At the same time, we also need to remain calm, and not add to any sense of public panic."

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