The Queen says she and Prince Phillip are deeply saddened by the drought affecting so many Australians but are heartened to see communities rallying together.

In a message released by Government House, Queen Elizabeth II said it was clear "one of the worst Australian droughts in living memory" was taking a heavy toll.

"I know Australia as a land where extremes of weather, floods and droughts are taken in their stride, and life goes on with a stoic and determined spirit," the Queen said in a statement on Thursday.

"It is clear, however, that the current drought is taking an immense toll, especially on those living and working in rural communities, who are, in so many ways, the very heart and soul of Australia."