Liverpool Plains Shire Council (LPSC) mayor Andrew Hope said the Drought Communities Program funding was invaluable to facilitate supply of water to people who desperately need replenishment whether on a small, domestic scale or via water cart.

Read also:

Councillor Hope said the project meshed well with other initiatives the council is progressing, designed to enhance water security now and importantly for future generations.

"The Drought Communities Program is providing much-needed and appreciated economic stimulus to our communities during this drought crisis," Cr Hope said.

"Everyone in a rural shire such as Liverpool Plains - be they on the land, running a business or living in town - is impacted by such an event, and the great thing about this program is that it spreads benefit across all these sectors."

Mr Joyce said the projects funded by the program, such as the new helipad at the Liverpool Plains Emergency Services Precinct and public facilities upgrades at surrounding villages, were "all helping to recharge the economies of our drought towns".

"It is about keeping local people in jobs, supporting local business which is also doing it tough from the downturn in trade and driving wealth back into our communities like Quirindi and around the New England ," Mr Joyce said.

Keep up-to-date with all your local news by subscribing here.