Swim Aus welcomes Govt Investment to drive HP

SWIMMING Australia has welcomed a major investment in High Performance sport announced today by the Australian Government and thanked the Government for its continued and generous support.

Announced ahead of next month’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the two-year $513 million investment in sport strengthens support for athletes – and our swimmers – to perform on the world stage on the road to LA, Brisbane and beyond.

Historic funding for Para sport will also be maintained for a further two years with $54.9 million going towards better classification opportunities for Para athletes, access to fit-for-purpose training environments, and specialised coaching and performance support.

More than 150 new Para athletes were uncovered in the first 12 months of the Para Uplift with Para sport units also established in every state and territory.

The Minister for Sport The Hon Anika Wells was joined for today’s announcement by world’s fastest swimmer over the one-lap dash – world record holder and Olympic champion Cam McEvoy and Paralympic medallist Lewis Bishop.

McEvoy said: “Funding like we’ve just received creates opportunities for athletes to go out there and pursue their dreams … particularly the athletes starting out.”

Bishop added: “The funding we receive from the Australian Government is a game changer, it helped me buy and fuel a car after the Paris Olympics … a 2016 Nissan Pulsar and I know it will directly help athletes reach the podium at the Commonwealth Games and beyond.”

Swimming Australia CEO Rob Woodhouse commended the Government for backing the ambition and potential of Olympic and Paralympic sports.

“The Australian Government, on behalf of the Australian public, are our biggest supporters and we are very grateful for their continued support,” he said.

Federal minister Wells said the government was “laser focused on what sport does from playground to podium”.

The $513 million package will be delivered by the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) over the next two years and Swimming Australia recognises the ASC, Australian Olympic Committee and Paralympics Australia for leading advocacy efforts to secure this outcome.