National swimming organisation says it is unable to speak on behalf of its state members as referendum nears
However, support for the yes vote in the sporting sector is far from universal. Of the 12 NSOs that receive at least $5m in annual funding from the Australian Sports Commission , only five have indicated they support the voice, while another – Paralympics Australia – hopes to come to a position before the referendum.
“We are a member organisation and we cannot speak on behalf of individual organisations,” the spokesperson said. Swimming Queensland’s chief executive, Kevin Hasemann, confirmed on Thursday his organisation had not taken a position on the issue. The Australian Swimmers Association general manager, Byron Sellan, stated it “has no official position on the voice vote”. Other members, including state-based swimming bodies and Swim Coaches and Teachers Australia, were approached for comment.
SA is under pressure from World Aquatics to reform its constitution following a high turnover of directors. A new constitution was shared with member organisations this week. Athletics, basketball, football, hockey and triathlon NSOs have indicated their support for the voice. Cycling, equestrian, winter sports and sailing NSOs have not issued statements and did not provide a response to Guardian inquiries.