Matt Abood appointed to Swimming Australia Board as interim president stands down

The Swimming Australia Board has announced the appointment of Matt Abood as Athlete Director on the Board while also advising that, effective today, Susan Smith will be standing down as Interim President having been in the role for five months.

Abood’s appointment is considered to be an important component of Swimming Australia’s new Constitution and will ensure the Athlete voice is strengthened and formally represented in the governance of swimming in Australia.

Abood - Dolphin #668 - is a highly respected member of the Australian swimming community and is a World and Commonwealth Champion and an Olympic Bronze medallist.

He served as an Executive Member of the Australian Swimmers’ Association from 2012 to 2019.

Since retiring from swimming, Abood has forged a successful career in banking, telecommunications and technology and has established himself as a senior executive with tremendous leadership potential.   

Abood is excited at the opportunity to join the Board and to play an integral role in the establishment of Swimming Australia’s Athletes Commission.

Abood shared “I am honoured to represent the athlete’s voice within the Board as part of Swimming Australia’s new Constitution.

“The development of the Athlete’s Commission charter over the coming months is a critical piece to finalise and a positive addition for the future of the sport and all athletes.”

Abood will commence in the role immediately.

Additionally, Susan Smith has advised she will be standing down as Interim President at close of business 5th February.  

Smith was appointed as the interim President of Swimming Australia, effective 18th September 2023 with her appointment following on from the resignation of the then current President Michelle Gallen ahead of her new role as the Chief Executive of the National Sports Tribunal.

The Swimming Australia Board confirms that they are hopeful of concluding the process to identify and appoint a permanent President in a timely manner.

The Board thanks Smith for her important contribution in the role as Interim President over the last five months.