MARCH 1, 2016: I join with Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash in  reminding interested parties they have until March 15 to submit applications for funding under Round Three of the National Stronger Regions Fund (NSRF).The NSRF aims to support priority infrastructure projects in regional communities, stimulating jobs and growth.This latest round of the National Stronger Regions Fund is open to submissions from local governments and incorporated not-for-profit organisations.It’s particularly important during out current economic climate.I encourage applicants with projects demonstrating strong long-term economic benefits and the potential to tackle local disadvantage to submit their application as soon as possible to avoid missing out.The NSRF will provide $1 billion over five years for capital projects involving the construction of new infrastructure or the upgrade or extension of existing facilities.The Coalition Government has a strong commitment to strengthening the regions, and through the first two rounds, has already provided $505 million in crucial funding towards 162 projects across the country.Grants must be between $20,000 and $10 million and grant funding must be matched in cash on at least a dollar-for-dollar basis except for those applicants in remote and very remote locations.For Round Three, remote and very remote applicants need to contribute at least one dollar for every three dollars of NSRF funding sought.More information on the programme is available at: www.infrastructure.gov.au/nsrf