The Kings will also make the move to Albury after the NSW rivals played their preseason fixture last weekend at an empty Qudos Bank Arena amid the Northern Beaches COVID outbreak.

It's seen all states and territories impose various restrictions on its borders with the country's largest state, with Queensland and Western Australia implementing hard border closures.

The Hawks are due to open their season against the Phoenix in Melbourne on January 14 ahead of a return clash to Wollongong and a road trip to Cairns in the opening round.

The draw has them making another trip to the tropics, and one to Brisbane, in the opening five rounds before all sides converge on Melbourne for the NBL Cup at the end of February.

The NBL said the move was a "temporary" one, with the best case scenario being an easing of restrictions allowing both sides to return to home prior the commencement of the season.

NBL commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said the move is necessary to ensure the health and safety of the players and staff, and will allow for easier travel to other states so both clubs can commence the new NBL season.

"Given the ongoing situation in Sydney we have decided it's prudent for both clubs to relocate to Albury after Christmas and they will be accommodated and train there under strict COVID protocols," Loeliger said.

"This will give us time to assess and work through the next steps required as we prepare for the start of the NBL Season on January 10. We hope the restrictions in Sydney and resulting border closures will be eased as quickly as possible but we will need to stay flexible in our approach and we will continue to be guided by the advice of the relevant state health authorities.

"While we work through potential changes in the season schedule, the intent and expectation is that both the Kings and Hawks will still play 14 home games in their respective home venues.

"I want to thank both the Kings and Hawks and all of their players and staff for their patience and understanding as we navigate this latest challenge. We are strongly committed to putting on the best season we can in front of our fans and supporting all of our clubs and players over the coming weeks and months."

Hawks co-owner and president, Dorry Kordahi, said the decision to relocate was made with the best interests of the league in mind.

"We want the ensure we're doing everything we can to commence the NBL season safely and securely in January," Kordahi said.

"Considering everything that is going on at the moment, we think it's best for the team to be based in Albury where it can prepare for its opening fixture of the season."

With the NBL headed for a Melbourne hub for the Cup, it leaves the possibility that the Illawarra faithful won't see their team on their home floor until late March or early April.