Swimming NSW introduced its latest update to rules on 1st May 2026.
These changes affect 400m freestyle; breaststroke & butterfly turns; finishes for freestyle & butterfly; and taping.
400m Freestyle:
SW2.6.6 In individual Freestyle races of 400m, 800m and 1500m, each Inspector of Turns at the starting and turning end of the pool will record the number of laps completed by the swimmer in the lane monitored. The swimmer will be informed of the remaining number of laps to be completed by the display of “lap cards” that show-odd numbers at the turning end of the pool. The “lap cards” must be displayed either at deck level or in the water (at the LOC’s discretion based on availability at the venue). Electronic equipment for the same purpose, including underwater display may be used.; and (WA SW2.6.6)
SW2.6.7 Each Inspector of Turns at the starting end will give a warning signal when the swimmer in their lane has two laps plus five 5m to swim to finish in individual freestyle races of 400m, 800m and 1500m. The signal must be repeated after the turn until the swimmer has reached the 5m mark on the lane rope. The warning signal may be by a whistle or bell. (WA SW2.6.7)
Freestyle finish:
SW5.4 Once some part of the head of the swimmer has passed the 5m mark, immediately prior to reaching for the finish wall, the swimmer may be completely submerged.
Breaststroke start and turn:
SW7.2 From the beginning of the first arm stroke after the start and after each turn, the body shall be on the breast. (WA SW7.2)
SW7.3 It is not permitted to roll onto the back at any time, except at the turn after the touch of the wall when it is permissible to turn in any manner as long as the body is on the breast from the beginning of the first arm stroke after leaving the wall. . . . (WA SW 7.3)
Butterfly start and turn:
SW8.1 From the beginning of the first arm stroke after the start and each turn, the Athlete’s body must be on the breast. (WA SW8.1)
SW 8.2 It is not permitted to roll onto the back at any time, except at the turn after the touch of the wall when it is permissible to turn in any manner as long as the body is on the breast from the beginning of the first arm stroke after leaving the wall. (WA SW8.2)
Taping:
SW10.19 . . . Any kind of tape on the body is not permitted unless approved by the Referee. As a consequence of injury, it is permissible to tape not more than one or two fingers or toes. Any other kind of tape on the body is not permitted unless approved by the Technical Manager and Referee.
Source: Swimming NSW Policies and Procedures https://nsw.swimming.org.au/sites/default/files/assets/documents/SNSW%20Rules%20May%202026.pdf