Council Administrator Wendy Tuckerman says the council has three projects in mind.

"We will be putting together submissions for Bundarbo Bridge in Jugiong and will look to also get funding for bridge widening on Willawong Creek and Bull Creek under the Bridges Renewal Programme.

The third round of funding under the $360 million Bridges Renewal Programme is now open and Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack is encouraging local councils across the electorate to apply for funding.

“This is a great opportunity for the Hilltops council to have ageing bridges fixed, with up to half the cost met by the Australian government,” Mr McCormack said.

“Councils can get on board by nominating local bridges that need upgrading or replacement and local residents who might also have thoughts on bridges requiring attention should get in touch with their Council to nominate local bridges, or put forward suggestions.

“Better bridges improve safety and access for communities and keep businesses and the road freight sector powering on – delivering dollars into the pockets of local businesses and supporting jobs."

Mr McCormack said rural Councils often need a hand to get big-ticket projects underway.

“We’ve already seen serious dollars spent fixing bridges in the region, with five upgrade projects having received support under Rounds One and Two of the programme," he said.

We have had a successful project in the Hilltops council area with the widening of McHenry’s Creek Bridge totalling $838,000."

Mr McCormack indicated nominated projects will go through a competitive merit-based selection process, with successful applicants eligible to receive up to 50 percent of project costs, or $5 million.

Round Three is open for applications until May 15, 2017.

Guidelines and proposal forms are now available on the Bridges Renewal Programme website at www.infrastructure.gov.au/bridges or by contacting Mr McCormack’s Wagga Wagga electorate office.