Japan, Brazil join BHP Billiton Aquatic Super Series

Five nations will compete in Western Australia's unique BHP Billiton Aquatic Super Series with the inclusion of strong swimming nations Japan and Brazil in the pool competition.

Western Australian Tourism Minister Liza Harvey said the 2014 series would now involve five of the world's best swimming teams from Australia, China, South Africa, Japan and Brazil, guaranteeing two days of exciting racing at Challenge Stadium.

Minister Harvey explained "together, those teams boast numerous Olympic and World Championship medallists, so the competition is certain to be fierce."

"Japan in particular had a very impressive team performance at the London Olympics winning 11 medals, second only to the United States and one more than both China and Australia.

"And of course Brazil is getting ready to host the next Olympic Games in 2016.

"It's fantastic to see the BHP Billiton Aquatic Super Series growing and developing, and the addition of the two new teams will really take the event to a new level on the international stage."

Being held for its second year, the 2014 BHP Billiton Aquatic Super Series starts on 31st January.

Exclusive to Perth, the series also includes water polo, featuring Australia and men's Olympic champions Croatia and the Chinese women's team, as well as open water swimming.

For more information go to www.aquaticsuperseries.com.au