Swimming Australia will retain its position as the peak national body for the competitive swimming industry after the Board finally returned a positive vote on a Constitution change.
Member Organisations (MOs) of Swimming Australia voted in favour of a revised Constitution at a Special General Meeting, which immediately followed the Swimming Australia General Meeting at which Swimming Australia’s proposed resolution was not endorsed.
Effective immediately, the revised constitution, which was developed collaboratively by all MOs, addresses many of the issues raised recently by World Aquatics (AQUA) and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC).
Chris Fydler OAM, Olympic Gold Medallist and President, Swimming New South Wales, said the new constitution acknowledged the need to give athletes more voice on the Board.
“The development of this version of the constitution is more representative of the needs of all involved in Swimming Australia,” he said. “Many of the Member Organisations (MOs) agree with several of the requirements requested by AQUA and the ASC and we wish to ensure that positive steps are taken to see them come to fruition.
“There was consultation with all Member Organisations (MO), so collectively we can demonstrate the progress made to modernise the sport’s Constitution.”
The second Constitution reiteration was also circulated with AQUA and ASC prior to the meeting ensuring transparency in the process.
“We want the opportunity to build on this new direction and remain committed to working with AQUA and ASC to address all concerns. We are united in working together for the good of swimming.”
Susan Smith, current President of Swimming Australia said she was pleased a resolution had been reached.
“We’re delighted that voting members have come together in the spirit of consultation and in the best interests of the sport and have passed a new constitution 8 votes to 1, which will deliver better governance for the sport we all love,” she said.
“The new direction voted on today by members provides for a governance model that will allow the sport to take positive steps forward and includes a greater voice for athletes and an increased voting member base.”
