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AOC president John Coates said the partnership would deliver significant benefits. “This is a major commitment to Australian sport,” he said. “We welcome and thank Mrs Gina Rinehart and Hancock Prospecting for this investment. On the eve of farewelling our team to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, the timing is perfect.”

Roy Hill and Hancock Prospecting executive chair Gina Rinehart has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in the General Division, as part of the Australia Day 2022 Honours list. The mining magnate, who was one of only 25 Australians selected for the honour this year, was recognised for “distinguished service to the mining sector, to the community through philanthropic initiatives and to sport as a patron”.

Hancock is one of the biggest taxpayers in Australia and has weathered the Covid pandemic. Its company profit for the year to June came after revenue for Mrs Rinehart’s Hancock rose to a record $16.6bn from $10.5bn a year earlier and the business paid a huge $2.7bn in federal corporate and state taxes. Last year was also a significant one away from mining for Mrs Rinehart, who watched strong performances by athletes in the four sports she backs at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Swimmers, rowers, beach volleyball players and artistic swimming representatives all receive direct support from Mrs Rinehart, as part of charitable and sponsorship pursuits the billionaire undertakes that also includes helping Cambodian girls out of poverty. All of the support has been recognised in this year’s Australia Day honours, with Mrs Rinehart gaining the title of Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the mining sector, to the community through philanthropic initiatives, and to sport as a patron.