Successful applications for the third and final round of the National Stronger Regions funding have been announced. 

The Federal Government will invest more than $126 million into 67 successful projects worth a total of $462 million. The Australian Local Government Association reports in excess of $96 million was allocated to council projects, and about $12.5 million to roads projects. Forty-three out of the 67 successful projects were from councils.

Minister for Regional Development and Deputy Nationals Leader Fiona Nash says the fund has spurred serious investment across the nation. 

“We're building tourism, water and transport projects as well as cultural, sporting and healthcare facilities," she says. 

“Projects like the Dubbo airport upgrade are a real shot in the arm to the western and Orana regions of NSW. The Coalition's $6.6 million into a $17.5 million project will pay off in spades." 

The National Stronger Regions Fund will now give way to a new regional fund – the Building Better Regions Fund – with the first round expected to open late this year.

“The Building Better Regions Fund will focus exclusively on areas outside of major capital cities,” Minister Nash said.

“A new community investment stream will be added to help build rural, regional and remote communities. Further, projects will compete against other projects of similar size—small community applications will not be judged against huge infrastructure projects.

More details of the new Building Better Regions Fund are expected in coming months, as the Government develops guidelines for the fund. 

A full list of successful round three National Stronger Regions Fund projects is now available.