ABC News: Dean Faulkner

Australians trying to return home will be asked to make their way to travel hubs in Hong Kong, Los Angeles, London and Auckland under a repatriation plan the government is developing.

The four hubs were decided on after talks with Qantas and Virgin, and were chosen because they provide the easiest access points for the greatest number of stranded Australians.

The government is still in discussions with airlines about mercy flights to less accessible locations, such as in South America and the Pacific.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said these locations were chosen based on providing accessibility to the largest number of overseas Australians possible.

"This is about getting Australians back home as soon as possible," Mr McCormack said.

"These flights will also provide much-needed freight capacity to Australian exporters and importers to these destinations.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne said the message to Australians overseas is clear: they should not hesitate if they have an opportunity to take commercial flights home.

"Many Australians will be able to get to one of these four destinations. They can do so knowing there will be an Australian airline to get them home," Ms Payne said.

"We recognise that, in some cases, this will not be possible. We will continue to work closely with airlines and our overseas consular assistance network in these situations.

A Virgin spokesperson told the ABC: “As a major Australian carrier we are pleased to support the Government in getting Australians home and maintaining important freight links into the country."