Australia-India PMs to meet virtually

An Indian government statement said the leaders were expected to "commit to closer cooperation in trade, critical minerals, migration and education". 

"Views on regional and international issues of mutual interest will also be discussed by the leaders," a statement from New Delhi says.

"The summit highlights the importance attached by both countries to their bilateral relations (and) ... close cooperation on regional and global issues."

Mr Morrison told reporters in Kalgoorlie on Friday that he would be in Brisbane on Monday for an "important announcement".

It is unclear whether the bilateral meeting will involve signing a free trade agreement between the two nations.

Trade Minister Dan Tehan on Monday said such a deal would be reached "by the end of the week".

It comes after multiple rounds of negotiations between the two countries, with former prime minister Tony Abbott even called in last year to help the stalled negotiations.

But India's timidity towards Russia's war in Ukraine has raised eyebrows among its Western allies after it failed to condemn the Kremlin for its invasion. 

Most recently, the United Kingdom's trade minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan expressed her disappointment at New Delhi's stance.

Asked on Thursday about India's position, Mr Morrison said he would continue to work with Quad partners - of which India is a part - but did not openly criticise New Delhi or express reservations at its stance as other Western leaders have.

"I've already held meetings with the Quad leaders and, and India has its issues that it's addressing," he said.

"But we also appreciate their calls to ensure a peaceful resolution to what's happening in Ukraine."

Reuters has also reported India may be willing to buy Russian crude oil and other commodities at a discounted price as sanctions continue to tighten around Moscow. 

India relies heavily on the Kremlin for weaponry and armaments, with about 70 per cent of its arsenal being Russian-made. 

with Reuters.