A top class swim meet in Australia has been postponed indefinitely due to the increased outbreak of H1N1 flu.

Swimming Australia said on Tuesday it decided to put off the Grand Prix meet, scheduled for the weekend of June 20-21 at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, due to the increased risks and quarantine levels surrounding the A(H1N1) flu outbreak.

Officials said it may be rescheduled for later in the year.

Swimming Australia chief executive Kevin Neil said postponing the event was in the best interests of the swimmers, and the sport.

"'Swimming Australia has a duty of care in relation to our athletes, as well as ensuring we give them be the best chance possible to prepare for the world championships in Rome," said Mr. Neil.

"It is a regrettable decision to have to make, yet one that we have made with all the information available."

Head coach Alan Thompson said the decision was taken in the best interests of the athletes, some of whom are on the Australian team for Rome in July 19-Aug 2.

"Of course we would have liked to have staged the event, but I know coaches and swimmers are already planning on running time trials in their own states to simulate the racing they would have had in Melbourne," said Mr. Thompson.