The gigantic dam has fall to just one per cent, which is roughly 3970 megalitres.

The level three water restrictions are a big jump for Barraba residents - the town was previously on Permanent Water Conservation Measures, which is the lowest level.

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Attunga is still on level one, Bendemeer and Manilla are on level three, Nundle is on level four and Tamworth, Moonbi and Kootingal are on level five.

Uralla and Bundarra recently moved to level four water restrictions, which could be level five restrictions within weeks if conditions don't improve.

Armidale is level five and Glen Innes is on level four.

Water restriction rules vary between local government areas and NSW Water Minister Melinda Pavey said once the drought was over, she would investigate improving the consistency of restrictions among councils.

The bulk water refill station at Attunga closed this week, because its frequent use by water carters was putting stress on the village's bore water supply.

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