Coles supermarkets are suspending online shopping to all customers except the isolated and vulnerable.

The move comes after a variety of other changes announced this week amid customer panic buying due to the ever-increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

Coles are implementing changes including reduced operating hours and a 'community hour' to assist vulnerable Australians. (Janie Barrett)

"To dedicate vans in our network to delivering groceries to those in genuine need, especially the most vulnerable and those isolated, home delivery orders for other valued customers will be temporarily suspended," the supermarket giant confirmed in a statement.

It also confirmed Click and Collect services would cease after an increase of incomplete orders was reported over the past week. This was caused by coronavirus panic buying of items such as toilet paper and hand sanitiser.

There is also a temporary cancellation of Coles UberEats delivery services in an effort for staff to "improve availability in stores".

Change-of-mind refunds suspended as of today

Coles Chief Executive Steven Cain confirmed that additional measures will be put in place to allow every Australian the opportunity to buy staple items.

He said from today onwards, Coles will temporarily suspend its change-of-mind policy in a bid to discourage over-purchasing.

"If you have already purchased additional items you no longer want, please look at donating them to community organisations or neighbours who have been struggling to purchase them during this time," Mr Cain said.

He also said as of Saturday, limits will be placed on the amount of pasta, flour, dry rice, paper towels, tissues and hand sanitisers to two items per customer.

The limits will also extend to other items depending on which store is nearest and customers should contact their local store for further information.

'Community Hour' introduced for elderly and disabled

Coles stores are following Woolworths lead by introducing a "community hour" from this Wednesday.

This will only allow access to elderly and disabled customers between 7 and 8am if they present a disability or pension card as proof.

Woolworths confirmed they will implement this new measure tomorrow, saying it will allow more vulnerable shoppers the chance to get necessities.

"This temporary measure will give those with a disability the opportunity to shop before our stores officially open - helping them obtain the essential items they need most in a less crowded environment," Woolworths Managing Director Claire Peters said.

Coles will hire more staff to meet demand

The supermarket giant also plans to recruit 5000 additional casuals to improve getting stock to customers and keeping stores clean and safe.

They also said this will allow employment opportunities for Australians working in other industries that are impacted by COVID-19.

Stores will only trade between 7am and 8pm on weekdays to allow for more efficient stock replenishment out of trade hours.

"This will allow us to serve more customers and replenish shelves faster," Coles said in a statement.