Scientists were critical of the planned closure, and said the observations made on the 13,000 hectare island were key for accurate short-term forecasting and an understanding of climate change's impact over the Southern Ocean.

The Greens spokeswoman Cassy O'Connor said it was not only imperative for the station remain open, but to finally be upgraded.

"There is a real opportunity now to not only ensure the scientific and meteorological research undertaken from the Australian Antarctic Division base continues, but to invest in new facilities, particularly as the existing base is subject to regular inundation," she said.

The station was set be replaced by a network of six field huts used by seasonal staff.

According to an engineering report, the cost of refurbishing the Macquarie Island Station was excessive.

But Minister for Environment and Energy Josh Frydenberg said on Friday the planned closure had now been put on hold.

"I have had further consultations with key stakeholders including the Bureau of Meteorology, the premier of Tasmania and my federal parliamentary colleagues," he said.

"I have now asked my department to provide me with options to ensure a permanent all-year-round presence on the island is maintained. In the meantime, operations on Macquarie Island will continue as normal."

The station was opened in 1911, before the Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions began using the base for scientific purposes in 1948.

"Investing in new facilities would provide a significant environmental benefit and lessen the existing footprint on the island," Ms O'Connor said.

The decision was made in response to public backlash on the decision, with many believing the plan to close the station was a sign further cuts would be made to scientific research.