Billionaire Gina Rinehart, through her company Hancock Prospecting, has awarded more than $1.2 million in bonus payments to Australian swimmers who achieved podium finishes at the recent Commonwealth Games.
The incentive scheme provided $20,000 for each gold medal, $15,000 for silver, and $10,000 for bronze. Athletes who broke a world record also received an additional $30,000 bonus. Relay swimmers received smaller bonuses, with $5,000 for gold, $3,750 for silver, and $2,500 for bronze, while those competing only in heats received half these amounts.
Following the conclusion of the swimming events, Australian swimmers had secured 37 gold, 16 silver, and 23 bronze medals. This record-breaking haul for the Dolphins at the Commonwealth Games resulted in a total payout of $1,272,500 from Rinehart's initiative. Athletes are expected to receive their bonuses within two weeks of the Games' conclusion.
Rinehart stated that the bonuses were a recognition of the athletes' dedication, hard work, sacrifice, and success. She also acknowledged the significant contributions of parents, coaches, and volunteers in supporting the swimmers.
Swimming Queensland director Jeff Winnington, whose son Elijah is a silver medalist, noted that Rinehart's support has had a substantial impact on Australian swimming. He explained that this backing allows athletes to focus on training and competition without the financial pressures often faced by competitors.
Australian swimmers have historically dominated the Commonwealth Games pool, topping the medal tally since 1982. Cate Campbell, a six-time gold medalist, credited Rinehart's ongoing support for helping to rebuild the sport and contributing to the team's consistent success. She recalled that Rinehart's intervention was crucial during a period when Australian swimming was struggling for support following the London Olympics.