SWIM AUS AND AUST SWIMMERS ASSOC. STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP

SWIMMING Australia and the Australian Swimmers Association (ASA) strengthened and reinforced the existing partnership between the two parties by committing to a funding agreement until the end of 2028.

The agreement comes off the back of the landmark partnership signed in 2023 and its renewal cements and establishes a dynamic framework for collaboration to maximise opportunities leading into the LA and Brisbane Games.

With swimmers recognised as genuine partners, the new agreement supports a funding model that aligns with the ASA’s strategic plan particularly around commercial revenue collaboration and athlete support.

Both parties will work collectively on revenue-generating opportunities for the sport and athletes, particularly around new events, marketing outcomes, participation bonuses and prize money.

Also confirmed is a more robust agreement around the commercial use of the athletes group IP, providing strong opportunities for brands looking to engage with Swimming Australia’s sponsorship program while also ensuring the flexibility for individual athletes to maintain their avenue to drive their own commercial partnerships.

The agreement covers a crucial period for the Dolphins and the organisation ahead of a stacked 2026 international program that includes the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Pan Pacific Championships in California next year.

By standing alongside one another, the ASA and Swimming Australia can ensure that the sport of swimming – and the athletes they serve – continue to grow through shared purpose, and new opportunity.

Australian Swimmers Association General Manager and Dolphin Josh Beaver said: “This new agreement provides the refreshed and repurposed Australian Swimmers’ Association with a wonderful opportunity to deliver meaningful impact for athletes, alumni, and the broader Australian swimming community.”

“We are encouraged by Swimming Australia’s renewed commitment to athlete-first leadership, and the ASA looks forward to collaborating with SA while delivering initiatives that support Australia’s elite swimmers – in and beyond the pool.”

Swimming Australia CEO and Dolphin Rob Woodhouse added: “We are delighted to have finalised this new agreement with the ASA and look forward to continuing our work together to build our sports profile and impact over the coming years, and our shared purpose of inspiring Australia through swimming.”

“Our new strategy relies on our ability to work hand-in-hand with our athletes to grow the brand of swimming, and the partnership and close working relationship with the ASA will ensure its success.”