Police rule out charges after Sydney Swans investigation

Victoria Police will not lay charges following a three-month investigation into sexual assault allegations involving Sydney Swans players, saying there was insufficient evidence. Police said a civil matter was continuing.

Isaac Heeney, 30, welcomed the decision in a statement and described the strain the investigation had placed on his family and fiancee Steffie. He thanked friends, relatives and people across the Swans for supporting him during the public scrutiny.

Nick Blakey, who moved from Sydney to North Melbourne in October, indicated he would comment soon. At North Melbourne training, teammates and staff greeted him with hugs and handshakes, including new coach Jaymie Graham.

Neither club nor the AFL had responded to the police decision. North Melbourne had expressed confidence in recruiting Blakey while the investigation was underway.

Separately, Sydney has commissioned an external examination of its culture. Chairman Andrew Pridham told members that workplace culture firm Intersection would advise on club protocols and programs. The process includes interviews with all AFL players and staff and is expected to finish by the end of the year.