The agreement sees Optus, the second largest company of its kind in Australia, become the official telecommunications partner of the Australian Olympic Team for the next three Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games through to 2026.

Australia’s delegations for the Summer and Winter Youth Olympic Games will also benefit from the sponsorship along with other teams the AOC prepares, such as that for the 2017 World Beach Games in San Diego.

The multi-year agreement gives Optus access to a sponsorship programme, including the partner recognition programme, Olympic themed promotions, branded merchandise, VIP events, Olympic Games tickets and hospitality and licensed product opportunities.

"As we look to the Rio 2016 Olympic Games and beyond, we’re exceptionally proud to announce this long term partnership with Optus which ensures a long-term financial commitment to our Australian Olympic Team," said John Coates, AOC President.

"We’re thrilled Optus has decided our Australian Olympic team is the perfect brand to amplify their engagement with the nation and we look forward to the support of employees and their millions of customers throughout Australia."

Ben White, acting managing director of marketing and product at Optus, added: "This marks the start of another important sporting partnership for Optus in our journey to become a mobile-led multimedia company.

"Our brand connects millions of Australians every day and we look forward to working with the Australian Olympic Committee to connect sports fans with memorable sporting moments and the best athletes from Australia and around the world."

Australia is set to have one of the biggest teams at Rio 2016 with 450 athletes expected to represent the country.

It is reportedly costing AUD$23 million (£11 million/$16 million/€15 million) to send the squad  to Rio 2016, which the AOC says would not be possible without the generosity of sponsors.