NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro has broken ranks with his Coalition colleagues and called on the federal government to "reconsider its position" on the Newstart payment, suggesting an increase would kick-start the drought-devastated regional and rural communities.

"I know there has been a lot of conversation about Newstart and the Newstart allowance," Mr Barilaro said on Thursday morning. "My message to my federal colleagues is we need to have a look at that, we need to make sure people can survive.

NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro. Credit:Nick Moir

"The Newstart allowance right now during this drought would be an easy way to stimulate rural and regional communities by supporting our kids or our young people in a way that we've never done before.

"Even though it's our side of government federally, I am calling on the federal government to reconsider its position on Newstart and support our most disadvantaged communities."