The ABC will seek access to the trial of accused whistleblower David McBride, according to Commonwealth lawyers, who say the national broadcaster has expressed an interest in influencing orders affecting the trial.

Key points: According to Commonwealth lawyers, the ABC has sought to influence court orders in the case

According to Commonwealth lawyers, the ABC has sought to influence court orders in the case David McBride was greeted at court by supportive demonstrators

David McBride was greeted at court by supportive demonstrators The Commonwealth has previously sought to have parts of the case heard in secret

Mr McBride, 55, was greeted outside the ACT Supreme Court this morning by a group of protesters supporting his case, holding signs with statements like "protect whistleblowers, defend democracy".

He is facing five charges including theft, unlawfully giving information under the Defence Act, and disclosing information under the Commonwealth Crimes Act.

The charges relate to allegations he disclosed information to the media, including for an ABC story known as The Afghan Files.

The case led to an Australian Federal Police raid on the ABC's headquarters in Sydney earlier this month, which is now the subject of separate Federal Court action.

The story, published in 2017, detailed allegations against members of Australia's elite SAS.

The Commonwealth has already lodged documents supporting plans for some of Mr McBride's case to be heard in secret.

Today lawyers for Attorney-General Christian Porter told the court the ABC had cited its role as the national broadcaster and the ongoing matters to do with the AFP search warrant as justifying its interest in the case.

The court heard the ABC wanted a variation in the orders, which determine how the trial is heard, and the Commonwealth lawyers asked the court for two weeks to negotiate.

Outside court Mr McBride was greeted by protesters expressing support. ( ABC News: Alexandra Alvaro )

Mr McBride, who has confirmed he will represent himself in the case, said it was a reasonable request but was disappointed the rest of the case would be delayed.

A brief of evidence has yet to be filed with the court.

The case will be back in court on July 11.