A temporary travel ban on all non-Australians travelling from China has been extended for another week as the number of coronavirus deaths surged and infections climbed by almost 15,000.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the government had "not taken the decision lightly" but the safety of Australians was his top priority, despite the economic consequences.

"My job is to protect the health of Australians," he said in Canberra on Thursday. "At the moment there is still a lot that is not known about this virus. The only message I have for China is one of sympathy and support."

The original 14-day travel ban will be extended by a week from Saturday, meaning all non-Australian residents – including tourists and students travelling from China - will not be able to enter Australia until at least February 22. Mr Morrison said the ban would be reviewed on a weekly basis.