Seven rural communities will benefit from a jointly funded council and State Government project to improve the reliability of the region's rural water supply schemes.

Bloomsbury, Calen, Koumala, Armstrong Beach, Alligator Creek, Finch Hatton and Gargett are all in line to reap the benefits of the funding.

The announcement comes as Minister for Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience, David Crisafulli, met with Mayor Deirdre Comerford today, to confirm the $360,000 state funding approval.   

Mayor Deirdre Comerford said that council will contribute an additional $560,000 towards the project, integral to the development and growth of rural communities.

"The project will deliver improved reliability in relation to water quality and address the demand issues that population growth places on water infrastructure."

Water and sewerage portfolio councillor Frank Gilbert was thrilled with the news, stating that the funding will allow council to undertake various upgrades and improve the functionality at its smaller rural treatment systems to mitigate the risk of water quality failures.

"The funding will contribute to the delivery of a number of key upgrades required to keep our rural treatment systems up-to-date with the latest treatment standards.

"Rural communities are continuing to grow at a rapid rate, placing increased demand on the infrastructure servicing those areas.

"The upgrades will provide some relief and allow for the continued supply of quality water on a reliable basis to these communities."

The funding is part of the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program designed to assist local governments in delivering priority infrastructure to meet community needs.

For further information visit http://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/