Included in the projects selected to proceed to full application are a program from Coffs Harbour City Council entitled 'Switching on Coffs in the Heart of the City' to help the city capitalise on the advantages on the National Broadband Network.

Senator Thistlethwaite said the announcement was a step in the right direction toward an exciting future for Cowper.

"The quality of the projects received in our region was very high, making it a difficult choice," the Senator said. "The projects chosen all took into account the priorities of our Regional Plan and have the capacity to address the needs of the region.

"The projects all have a strong level of community support and will have a positive long-term impact on our region and neighbouring regions, and are ready to proceed.

"The Gillard Government is committed to ensuring regions, like Kempsey, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour, have the resources they need to thrive financially and also as homes to so many lucky Australians."

The list of projects selected across the RDA network that are proceeding to full application are available at www.regional.gov.au

The closing date for full applications is February 15.