Swimming Aust lands Rinehart deal

Mining magnate Gina Rinehart has signed up as major sponsor of the Australian swimming team in a major boost for the sport.

The Australian team was without a major sponsor since mid-2013 when EnergyAustralia quit following negative headlines surrounding issues with the team in the wake of the poor London Olympic campaign.

Those headlines included the Stilnox scandal and the report into the `toxic' culture of the team.

Now Rinehart, through her company Hancock Prospecting, is backing the revamped swim team to succeed.

"We are very proud to increase our support of these great young ambassadors who represent our country on the world stage," Rinehart said.

"Under the leadership of Swimming Australia president John Bertrand, we are seeing an exciting time for Australian Swimming as we witness a resurgence in the pool and an improved culture and focus on excellence, teamwork, and high standards."

Swimming Australia chief executive Mark Anderson said the increased support from Rinehart was a sign the team had turned a corner as they look towards the Rio Olympics in 2016.

"This announcement is another very positive step forward as we prepare for our biggest challenge in 2016," Anderson said.