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Aurizon

azj · ASX Industrials
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FY2012 Annual Report · Aurizon
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Dominic D Smith 
SVP & Company Secretary 

QR National Limited 
ABN 14 146 335 622  

Level 17, 175 Eagle St 
Brisbane QLD 4000, Australia 
GPO Box 456 
Brisbane QLD 4001, Australia 

T  +61 7 3019 1976 
F  +61 7 3019 2188 
companysecretary@qrnational.com.au  

23 August 2012 

ASX Market Announcements 
ASX Limited 
20 Bridge Street 
Sydney NSW 2000 

BY ELECTRONIC LODGEMENT 

QR National – Annual Report  

Please find attached a copy of QR National’s 2012 Annual Report. 

In  accordance  with  the  relief  from  dual  lodgment  of  financial  statements  under  ASIC 
Class Order 98/104, the Annual Report will not be lodged separately with ASIC.  

Copies of the Annual Report are expected to be dispatched to all shareholders, whom 
have elected to receive a copy of the Annual Report, in mid-September 2012. 

The Company’s Annual General Meeting will be held at 10:00am (Brisbane time) on  7 
November 2012. A copy of the Notice of Annual General Meeting is expected to be sent 
to all shareholders in mid-September 2012. 

Yours faithfully 
QR National  

Dominic D Smith  
SVP & Company Secretary 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SECTION HEADING  |  QR NATIONAL

1

AnnuAl RepoRt 
2011–12

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

QR NATIONAL

QR National is Australia’s largest rail freight operator, with more than 145 years’ experience.  

Each day, the Company moves on average more than 500,000 tonnes of coal, iron ore and  

other minerals, as well as agricultural and general freight, around the nation.

QR National owns and operates a coal network made up of almost 2,670 kilometres of heavy 

haul rail infrastructure in Central Queensland. The Company also provides a range of specialist 

services in rail design, engineering, construction, management and maintenance, and offers 

large-scale supply chain solutions to a diverse range of customers Australia-wide.

QR National has played a critical role in the economic development and growth of the  

minerals-rich state of Queensland, providing the transport backbone for one of the world’s  

largest coal supply chains. Over recent years, QR National has extended its business focus  

beyond Queensland and applied its expertise and capabilities to coal and iron ore opportunities  

in New South Wales and Western Australia, as well as intermodal freight across the nation.

QR National’s business comprises three major product lines – Coal, Freight and Network.  

The Company’s performance and future growth is linked to the key demand drivers of the 

Australian resources sector. As a result, QR National is well placed to benefit from the expected 

growth in demand for coal and iron ore, particularly from fast-growing Asian economies such  

as China and India.

Our Vision 

Grow our People. Grow with our Customers. Grow the Nation.

Our Mission

To be a world-leading transport business, to partner with customers for growth and to double the 

value of the Company every five years, while becoming the safest transport company in the world.

Our Employee Promise

To build a diverse, collaborative and creative workplace where people know what they are 

accountable to do and can count on having what they need to succeed.

Our Values

Safety — Safety of ourselves and others is our number one priority.

Integrity — We are honest and fair and conduct business with the highest ethical standards.

Leadership, Passion & Courage — We are passionate about leading change. We deliver results 
with energy and conviction.

World Class Performance — We deliver world class performance and superior value for our 

shareholders, customers and staff.

Contents

Chairman’s Report 

Managing Director &  

CEO’s Report 

Year in Review 

Sustainability 

4

6

9

Directors’ Report 

Remuneration Report 

Corporate Governance 

Financial Report 

14

Shareholder Information 

18

24

39

45

94

QR nAtionAl limited  |  ABn 14 146 335 622

QR NATIONAL

1

Image: QRN Moura Line 

QR National’s commitment to achieving  
quality results, despite the shortfall  
of almost 50 million tonnes of forecast  
growth in coal volumes, helped deliver  
a 52% improvement in EBIT in FY12.

Coal volumes (mt)

Revenue1 ($m)

EBITDA1 ($m)

EBIT1 ($m)

+2%

198

184 187

182

186

300

240

180

120

60

0

+10%

3,293

3,625

2,973

2,605

2,344

4000

3500

3000

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

0

+25%

840

1,048

716

505

359

1200

1000

800

600

400

200

0

+52%

584

383

289

600

500

400

300

200

100

0

148

41

FY08

FY09 FY10

FY11

FY12

FY08

FY09 FY10

FY11

FY12

FY08

FY09 FY10

FY11

FY12

FY08

FY09 FY10

FY11

FY12

1Underlying revenue, EBITDA and EBIT. Underlying results differ from the Group’s statutory results. Refer reconcilliation to statutory earnings on page 69.

2

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Image: Moura Line – Big Country

Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate

6.14

-22%

3.08

2.40

7.00

5.25

R
F
I
T
L

3.50

1.75

0.00

FY10

FY11

FY12

Total Volumes

4%

262

252

243

300

250

200

a
p
t
M

150

100

50

0

FY10

FY11

FY12

Group Operating Ratio

- 4%

91%

88%

84%

%

100

80

60

40

20

0

FY10

FY11

FY12

Cash Flow from Operations

1000

)

(

A
m
$

800

600

400

200

0

+58%

924

639

585

FY10

FY11

FY12

Safety

22%Reduction

 in lost time injuries

Total Volumes

252Million 

tonnes hauled

Operating Ratio

4ppt Reduction 

in Group operating ratio

Cash Flow

58%Increased 

cash inflow

pERfORmANCE HIGHLIGHTS  |  QR NATIONAL

3

Image: Moura Line – Big Country

Variance

Group Operating Metrics1

FY11

FY12 Variance

Financial Highlights

FY11 
($m)

FY12 
($m)

Statutory Revenue

3,293

3,634

Statutory EBITDA1

Underlying EBITDA1,2

Statutory EBIT1

Underlying EBIT1,2

Statutory NPAT1,3

Underlying NPAT

Statutory EPS (cps)1

Total Dividends (cps)

679

840

222

383

361

172

15.4

3.7

10%

56%

25%

168%

52%

22%

144%

1,057

1,048

593

584

441

420

18.1

18%

8.3

124%

1   FY11 comparative restated due to a retrospective application of  
a voluntary change in accounting policy relating to mechanised 
Ballast undercutting.

2  Underlying EBITDA and EBIT in FY12 were adjusted by $8.8m 

relating to the reversal of stamp duty.  Underlying EBITDA and EBIT 
in FY11 were adjusted for one-off IPO related costs and voluntary 
redundancy expenses totalling $161.7m.

Revenue / ntk  (A$/000 ntk)

55.1

57.7

5%

Labour Costs / Revenue

34% 31% 3 ppt

ntk / employee (MNTK)

6.6

7.0

6%

Opex / ntk  (A$/000 ntk)

48.6

48.4

0%

EBITDA Margin

26% 29% 3 ppt

Operating Ratio

88% 84% 4 ppt

ROIC

ntk (bn)

Tonnes (m)

People

4.4% 6.7% 2.3 ppt

59.8

62.9

5%

243.1

252.2

4%

9,001     8,969

0%

3 FY11 statutory NPAT includes $281m tax benefit.

1 The Group Operating Metrics are calculated to underlying results. 

Our 146 years’ experience combined with our recent  
transformation has made us commercially driven,  
customer-focused, efficient and primed for future success.

4

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Chairman’s  
Report

QR National has embraced a 
strategy to achieve world-class 
performance across the business, 
with our commitment to customers 
at the core of our reforms. 

Image: Moura Line

The completion of QR National’s first full financial 
year as a listed company is an important milestone 
in our 146-year history. The 12 months to 30 June 
2012 have been an industrious period for the 
Company supporting our customers with rail 
transportation services in the coal, bulk and general 
freight markets. We have navigated the heightened 
volatility of global markets, a tough domestic 
economic environment, and diverse operational 
challenges to deliver a quality financial result and 
achieve significant gains with our major growth  
and transformation programs.

Quality Results in Challenging 
Conditions

The difficult operating conditions that prevailed  
in the months following our transition to publicly-
listed life persisted over the course of 2011–12.  
The lingering impacts of Queensland’s record 
floods in 2010–11, softer global demand and 
industrial action at some Queensland mines have 
resulted in lower coal production. These events, 
together with some adverse weather impacting  
on network availability, contributed to weaker 
demand for the Company’s coal haulage services. 

It is against this backdrop that our Company 
demonstrated the resilience of our business and  
the benefits of reform initiatives, with the Company 
posting a 22 per cent increase in net profit after 
tax to $441 million. Underlying1 Earnings Before 
Interest and Tax (EBIT) was $584 million, a  
52 per cent increase over the prior year, and  
earned on revenues of $3.6 billion. 

On the strength of these results, at year end the  
QR National Board declared a final dividend of  
4.6 cents per share, giving a full-year dividend  
of 8.3 cents per share. This represents an increase 
of 4.6 cents, or 124 per cent over the prior year. 

While there has been significant market volatility 
in global equity markets since the unfolding of 
the European debt crisis, QR National’s Total 
Shareholder Returns for the year outperformed  
the S&P/ASX 200 index by 8.8 per cent.

QR National’s financial performance for the  
2011–12 year is set out in detail in the latter  
half of this report on pages 45 to 93.

1  Underlying results differ from the Group’s statutory 
results.  Refer reconciliation to statutory earnings on  
page 69.

CHAIRmAN’S REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

5

Growth and Transformation

The transformation of QR National gathered pace 
in 2011–12. The Company embraced a strategy 
to achieve world-class performance across the 
business with our commitment to customers at  
the core of our reforms. A new functional structure 
took effect during the year, removing operational 
silos, driving cost efficiencies and better positioning 
the Company to tackle legacy issues associated 
with our long history of Government ownership.  
As part of this process, in June, the Company 
proposed a range of reforms including a second 
round of voluntary redundancies. We recognise 
that in the current challenging environment it is 
more important than ever to lower the Company’s 
cost base and to match capacity with demand. 

During the year we continued to invest heavily 
in new rail infrastructure collaborating with our 
customers on future supply chain solutions for 
the Australian resources sector. QR National has 
growth projects underway which will deliver  
a one-third increase in the capacity of our Central 
Queensland Coal Network by 2015. The Company 
is also planning for growth beyond this timeframe 
and recently received the support of the 
Queensland Government for new rail expansions  
to realise the vast export potential of the Bowen 
and Galilee Basins.

In Western Australia’s rich iron ore province of 
the Pilbara, the Company is pursuing strategic 
opportunities that leverage our capability to build 
and operate multi-user railways. Details of our 
progress on these major growth projects can be 
found on pages 12–13 of this Annual Report.

Safety and Sustainability 

As always, safety is QR National’s first priority. 
Providing a safe environment for our stakeholders, 
particularly our employees around Australia, is  
our most important responsibility. In 2011–12  
we were heartened by improving trends across  
our key safety metrics, particularly as we view  
these improvements as a barometer of the 
changing culture within the Company. However,  
I speak for both the Board and executive team 
when I reiterate that QR National will never be 
satisfied with anything less than ZEROHARM, 
which means no injuries to anyone, ever.

As QR National grows and builds value as a listed 
entity operating sustainably will continue to be  
at the heart of our approach to doing business.  
We operate in all mainland states of Australia 
and our employees live and work in local 
communities. The Company recognises our clear 
duty to employees, customers, communities and 
shareholders to be a responsible corporate citizen. 

In April, Mrs Karen Field and Mr John Cooper were 
appointed to the Board of Directors. Karen and 
John bring additional diversity and broad industry 
knowledge in mining, construction and engineering 
and human resources management. Their 
appointments have strengthened the QR National 
Board and I am confident the Company will benefit 
from their astute counsel over the coming periods.

Our commitments and progress in the areas of 
safety, people, environment and community are 
discussed in detail on pages 14–17 of this report.

Government Holding 

Following QR National’s privatisation and listing 
on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) in 
late 2010 the Queensland Government retained 
an interest of approximately 34 per cent in the 
Company. The Government of the day entered 
into an escrow arrangement with QR National for 
its retained shareholding until the release of the 
Company’s 2011–12 financial results. The new 
Queensland Government has indicated it does  
not intend to remain a long-term shareholder  
in QR National, however the nature and timing  
of any sell-down is ultimately a matter for them  
to determine. QR National takes an active role  
in managing of the Company’s balance sheet  
and will aim to work with the Government to 
facilitate an outcome in the best interests of  
all shareholders.

Board Composition

As Chairman of QR National I am grateful to  
work with Company Directors of the highest 
calibre.  During 2011–12 we welcomed two 
new Directors to the QR National Board but 
also farewelled two of our esteemed colleagues. 
In October we were deeply saddened by the 
passing of fellow Director Mr Peter Kenny. Peter 
was a highly valued member of our Board and a 
distinguished figure in Queensland’s rural sector. 
He will be greatly missed. 

Mr Allan Davies resigned from the Board during 
the year due to the pressure of other professional 
commitments.  Both Peter and Allan were 
foundation Directors of the Company, joining at its 
incorporation in 2010. The Board places on record 
its gratitude for the significant contribution made 
by Peter and Allan to the Company’s achievements 
and its successful transition from Government-
owned corporation to publicly-listed company.

Outlook 

Entering 2012–13 the Company remains positive 
in its outlook. Short-term global economic 
uncertainties have not changed the medium to 
long-term outlook for the markets we serve. Further 
growth opportunities are expected for resource-
related Australian companies in the Asian century 
and QR National is primed to benefit with our 
leverage to this sector. The Company’s balance 
sheet is strong and we have a well developed 
pipeline of growth projects to execute in the 
coming years. We will also continue to extract value 
by transforming the Company into a commercially 
driven, customer-focused and highly efficient  
rail operator.

Acknowledgements

The transformation and revitalisation of  
QR National is taking shape with remarkable 
clarity. I would like to thank all QR National 
employees for their efforts and contributions  
to the widespread change that is underway.  
Also my appreciation goes to the executive  
team competently led by Managing Director  
& CEO Lance Hockridge for the great strides  
taken over the past 12 months. 

We also owe our success to date to the support  
of our shareholders. On behalf of the Board, I 
thank you for taking this journey with QR National. 
Be assured we will continue to target superior 
returns for shareholders in 2012–13 and the years 
which follow.

I look forward to welcoming you at the Company’s 
AGM on Wednesday 7 November 2012 at the 
Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

John B Prescott AC
Chairman

 
6

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Managing 
Director &
CEO’s Report

In 2012, the Company delivered 
on all of its major commitments, 
including project delivery and 
safety performance.

Since the privatisation and ASX listing of  
QR National the Company has generated  
strong momentum with its strategic growth  
and transformation program. Over the past 
12 months we have executed our strategy 
and examined every aspect of the business to 
determine how and where we can improve the 
Company’s future performance. It has been  
a huge body of work, culminating in a major 
corporate restructure that is in the midst of 
implementation. 

As outlined to shareholders in last year’s Annual 
Report our efforts have concentrated on five key 
strategic drivers:

1.   Achieving excellence in customer service

2.   Establishing an accountable, performance-

based culture

3.   Improving asset utilisation and return  

on capital

4.   Leveraging and expanding our leadership 

position in coal

5.   Pursuing opportunities for growth and 

diversification.

These imperatives continue to form the 
fundamental platform from which we are  
growing and transforming Australia’s largest rail 
freight business. Indeed, this strategy has served 
QR National well in a very complex and challenging 
operating environment during 2011–12 with the 
Company delivering a strong increase in underlying 
earnings despite significantly weaker coal 
tonnages. Importantly, the Company delivered 
on all of its major commitments, including project 
delivery and safety performance.

Image: Port of Brisbane

mANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO’S REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

7

Financial Results

Weaker demand due to a delayed recovery from 
Queensland’s floods in the year prior and industrial 
action at a key customer’s operations contributed to 
a 47 million tonne reduction in coal haulage volumes 
for the year compared to initial expectations. 
However, the impact of lower tonnages was largely 
offset by the benefits of greater revenue quality and 
the achievement of cost efficiencies delivered by 
the Company’s transformation program, leading to 
improved margins.  

Underlying1 Earnings Before Interest and Tax 
(EBIT) for the year was $584 million, up 52 per cent 
(FY112: $383 million).

Statutory revenue rose to $3.6 billion for the 
reporting period to 30 June 2012, a 10 per cent 
increase over the prior year (FY11: $3.3 billion). 
The combination of revenue growth with cost 
reduction and reform initiatives contributed to a 
25 per cent improvement in underlying1 Earnings 
Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation 
(EBITDA) to $1,048 million (FY112: $840 million). 

Total assets were $10.0 billion, and earnings  
per share was 18.1 cents. We continued to generate 
strong cash flows to fund our major growth projects, 
with capital expenditure totalling $1.2 billion for the 
year. The Company’s net debt position as at 30 June 
2012 was $1.1 billion, reflecting a net gearing ratio 
of 13 per cent.

The quality of these results in challenging 
economic conditions, both in Australia and abroad, 
highlights the solid operating fundamentals  
of QR National, as well as the potential for the 
Company to add value through its comprehensive 
growth and transformation program.

Operational Performance

During the first half of 2011–12, coal tonnages 
were gradually recovering from the impacts of 
Queensland’s natural disasters in the prior year. 
However, customer tonnages remained volatile 
in the second half of 2011–12 with QR National 
having significant track and haulage capacity for 
further volume increases. This was due to several 
factors including the ongoing industrial action at 
BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Queensland mines, 
lower than anticipated customer demand for coal 
rail transport and wet weather which led to the 
temporary closure of several of our coal systems.

Coal tonnages were flat in Queensland compared 
to the prior year, but up 15 per cent in New South 
Wales reflecting our progress in that market. This 
resulted in a net 2 per cent improvement  
in coal volumes to 186 million tonnes compared  
to 2010–11. 

Stronger bulk, general and intermodal freight 
volumes of 67 million tonnes compared to  
62 million tonnes in the prior year contributed  
to an improved result for our freight business. 
In the Western Australian iron ore market, the 
Company continued to make solid progress,  
with the business doubling iron ore EBIT over  
the prior year and progressing to schedule its 
plans to achieve 30 million tonnes per annum  
in haulage by 2013–14. 

Safety 

QR National’s journey towards becoming world 
class in safety progressed in 2011–12. Already, 
the Company stands among Australia’s leaders 
in rail safety. Over recent years, the Company 
has implemented a range of safety, health 
and behavioural change campaigns targeting 
ZEROHARM, injury prevention, road safety and 
workplace health and safety. These cultural change 
projects have driven a steady decline in the Lost 
Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR), which reduced 
by 22 per cent to 2.40 recordable injuries per million 
hours in 2011–12. However, every injury is one too 
many and in the coming year we will continue the 
very important work of cementing  
the ZEROHARM philosophy as a way of life for all 
our people.

Transformation 

In December QR National transitioned to a new 
functional organisational structure, similar to 
that of the Class 1 railroads of North America. 
These rail companies are the global leaders across 
a range of metrics and performance measures 
including customer service and shareholder returns 
and we are drawing much inspiration from their 
performance and success.  

The Company’s restructure has been designed 
to accelerate our transformation and put the 
customer at the front and centre of all we do. 
In June, the next phase of this restructure was 
announced with a range of company-wide 
proposals targeting greater productivity and 
lower costs. These centre on the reduction 
of management and supervisory levels, the 
rationalisation of back-office support functions  
and non-core business activity and the 
consolidation of the Company’s operations  
and commercial functions. 

We acknowledge these are difficult reforms for 
many of our employees and we have taken a 
sensible and constructive approach during the 
consultation and implementation phases. Board 
and management however remain convinced 
on the imperative for change that will underpin 
a competitive, strong future for the Company. 
QR National’s operating ratio, which sat at 
approximately 84 per cent in 2011–12 is too high 
when compared to our competitors and global rail 
industry peers. The Company has set an operating 
ratio target of 75 per cent to be achieved by 2015. 
With implementation of transformation and 
growth initiatives and continued tight operational 
and financial discipline we are focused on delivering 
on this target. 

Growth

QR National strengthened its medium to  
long term position during the year through the 
advancement of growth opportunities in the  
target markets of Queensland, Western Australia 
and New South Wales. The Company has a  
unique value proposition to offer existing and  
new customers in the resources sector, premised  
on four key capabilities:

1.  Our rail infrastructure construction and 

maintenance expertise

2.  Our heavy haulage expertise honed over 
decades of export coal operations in 
Queensland

3.  Our track record in successfully operating 

multi-user resource railways

4.  Our proven ability to provide an integrated and 
scalable transport solution from mine to port.

QR National is midway through a program that 
is injecting another 71 million tonnes per annum 
of capacity into the Central Queensland Coal 
Network, lifting total system capacity to more 
than 300 million tonnes per annum by 2015. 
Two of Australia’s largest rail expansions will 
contribute the bulk of this capacity, the Wiggins 
Island Rail Project (WIRP) and the Goonyella to 
Abbot Point Expansion (GAPE). Both of these major 
capital projects reached pivotal milestones during 
2011–12, with the WIRP beginning construction 
early this year and the $1.1 billion GAPE project 
starting services ahead of schedule and on budget 
for our customers in December.

1 Underlying results differ from the Group’s statutory results. Refer reconcilliation to statutory earnings on page 69.
2 Restated due to a retrospective application of a voluntary change in accounting policy relating to mechanised Ballast undercutting, as explained in note 1(q) on page 56.

8

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Managing Director  
& CEO’s Report (continued)

Beyond WIRP and GAPE QR National is progressing 
an expansion of our existing rail system in Central 
Queensland to facilitate the ongoing development 
of the Bowen and Galilee Basins. In June, we 
announced we are committing to the next stage of 
the planned expansion of the Goonyella/Newlands 
corridors by at least 25 million tonnes per annum, 
to 75 million tonnes per annum, by duplicating 
sections of GAPE.

The Company is also advancing work for the 
emerging Galilee Basin following the Queensland 
Government’s decision in June to nominate  
a west-east common corridor for the Galilee, 
connecting with QR National’s Central Queensland 
coal network. 

In Western Australia, the Pilbara iron ore region 
offers one of the Company’s most outstanding 
growth prospects. We are investigating an 
independent, multi-party railway to connect iron 
ore mines in the East Pilbara to Port Hedland. 
There is considerable work ahead to demonstrate 
the technical and commercial merits of such a 
project, however, its success would be of major 
strategic significance to QR National, delivering 
a step change in our national footprint and the 
diversification of our business.

Acknowledgments

The Company’s transition to a new structure  
in 2011–12 has been smooth, with business 
continuity maintained throughout and for this  
I am greatly in debt to my leadership team and 
our motivated, professional employees. It is to 
their credit that QR National rose to the challenges 
presented during the year and delivered a solid 
financial performance.

As always, we are grateful to QR National’s  
highly valued customers for their business and  
trust in 2011–12. Across the Company, we are  
more determined than ever to meet and exceed  
our customers’ expectations in all that we do. 

Finally, on behalf of all of the employees at  
QR National, I would like to express our gratitude 
to our shareholders for your continued strong 
support of the Company and the strategic direction 
we are pursuing to bring you value in 2012–13  
and beyond. 

Lance Hockridge
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer

It is through these projects and others which  
are outlined on pages 12–13 of this Annual Report, 
that QR National has set an exciting course for 
our future growth, extending the Company’s 
geographic reach to open new markets for  
our customers and to generate strong financial 
returns for our shareholders.

Outlook 

The past year has shown the real value of the 
transformation underway at QR National and  
gives us good reason to be confident about the 
future. In the near-term, given the context  
of uncertain global economic conditions, we  
are expecting a continuation of softer coal 
demand in Queensland. The Company has 
provided guidance for coal volumes in the range  
of 195 to 205 million tonnes for 2012–13,  
which is dependent on minimal disruptions  
and no adverse shocks to the global economy. 

Looking forward to the medium-term, however, 
we remain optimistic about the outlook for the 
markets we serve. We expect a more cautious  
and rigorous approach to investment decisions,  
but the fundamentals underpinning resource 
growth remain unchanged. The strong demand  
for resources from growth economies, such as  
India and China, will continue to bring 
opportunities for companies like QR National.

From a company perspective, QR National is 
strongly positioned for the future. We have a  
strong balance sheet and a program of solid 
growth opportunities set to expand the scale  
and diversity of our business. Undoubtedly,  
we will continue to face difficult decisions to 
ensure the continuing competitiveness of our 
company, but I believe with consistent and 
focused execution, QR National’s growth and 
transformation strategy will deliver further 
performance improvements.

Image: GAPE Track Duplication Kaile to Durroburra 
section – Nigel Green, Robert Merrel (contractor)

YEAR IN REVIEW  |  QR NATIONAL

9

Image: GAPE Leichhardt Yard, Northern Missing  
Link Project – ballast train – Martin Mills

Year in 
Review

Whether it is through 
our coal and freight 
transport operations 
or the extensive rail 
network we maintain 
and operate, QR National 
is moving a nation. 

Our coal business is one of the largest rail transporters of coal 
anywhere in the world. We are the integral link between mine 
and port for coal producers at more than 50 mine sites, spread 
across Australia’s six major coal chain systems. Having been a 
part of the coal industry since the beginning of the modern coal 
era we understand our customers’ needs.

Operating primarily in Queensland and Western Australia our 
extensive freight business transports more than 60 million tonnes 
per annum. This includes bulk minerals and commodities like 
iron ore, agricultural products, mining and industrial inputs and 
general and containerised freight.

We also operate and manage the Central Queensland Coal 
Network (CQCN). The open access rail network is the largest coal 
rail network in Australia and one of the country’s most complex  
rail freight networks with more than 100 trains running on the 
2,670 kilometre network every day.

10

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Year in Review 
(continued)

COAL

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

Business Summary

QR National’s coal business is one of the world’s 
largest rail transporters of coal from mine to port 
for export markets, hauling an average 500,000 
tonnes a day. Servicing the majority of Australia’s 
coal producers across more than 50 mine sites,  
QR National operates in each of Australia’s six 
major coal chain systems: the Newlands, Goonyella, 
Blackwater, Moura and West Moreton systems in 
Queensland and the Hunter Valley coal system in 
New South Wales.

QR National has offered rail solutions to the coal 
industry since the start of the modern coal era in 
the 1960s. As the world’s appetite for Australian 
coal grows QR National continues to be a major 
player and innovator in the coal industry. The 
Company plays a leadership role in driving supply 
chain improvements, working collaboratively with 
supply chain partners and customers.

Performance Overview

A range of negative factors translated into weaker 
than expected haulage volumes of 186 million 
tonnes for 2011–12. These factors included softer 
global coal demand, a slower than anticipated 
ramp-up of mine production following the 2010–11 
Queensland floods and prolonged industrial 
disputes at some mines. 

While Queensland coal tonnages were flat  on  
the prior comparable period this was balanced  
by a 15 per cent increase in New South Wales 
coal volumes, for a net 2 per cent improvement 
compared to 2010–11 to 182 million tonnes. 

Despite weaker volumes higher revenue rates 
increased 2011–12 revenue by 8 per cent to  
$1,828 million and revenue per net tonne kilometre 
(ntk) by 5 per cent. Underlying3 EBIT increased  
by 62 per cent, or $98 million, to $257 million,  
due to stronger above rail revenue rates, receipt  
of contract performance payments, reduced  
labour costs and reduced maintenance costs.

The ntk improvement was achieved through 
improved revenue quality due to the ongoing 
introduction of new performance-based contracts 
which deliver higher returns and growth in margins.

The continuing renegotiation of legacy contracts 
was progressed during 2011–12 with coal volumes 
under new form contracts now at approximately  
38 per cent.  These new contracts provide 
customers with greater certainty and flexibility  
to meet unexpected increases in volume in 
return for more favourable revenue protection 
arrangements in the form of capacity charges.

Coal – Key Financials and Metrics

FY11

FY12 VARIANCE

Tonnages 
(million)

181.6

185.6

ntk (billion)

40.9

41.9

Revenue ($m)

1,691

1,828

EBITDA ($m)

369

441

Margin %

EBIT ($m)

Margin %

Capital 
Expenditure1 ($m)

Revenue / NTK  
(A$/000 NTK)

Opex / NTK  
(A$/000 NTK)

22% 24%

159

257

9% 14%

451

123

– 73%

41.4

43.6

5%

37.5

37.5

Operating Ratio

91% 86%

1 Excludes capitalised interest

2%

2%

8%

20%

2 ppt

62%

5 ppt

0%

5 ppt

NETWORK SERVICES

Network Services – Underlying3 EBIT

$294.3M

$301.0M

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

2 Restated due to a retrospective application of a voluntary 
change in accounting policy relating to mechanised 
Ballast undercutting as explained in note 1(q) on page 56.

Business Summary

QR Network operates and manages the Central 
Queensland Coal Network, which is the largest 
export coal rail network in Australia and comprises 
the major coal systems in Queensland’s Bowen 
Basin. This 2,670 kilometre track network comprises 
four major coal systems: Moura, Blackwater, 
Goonyella and Newlands. 

Performance Overview

Lower coal tonnages from the lingering impacts 
of the 2011 floods on mine production combined 
with lower production at Queensland coal mines 
as a result of softer global demand and industrial 
action at some mines led to flat railings across 
the network of 167 million tonnes, up 2 per cent 
from 164 million tonnes in 2010–11. Though 
tonnages were flat, access revenue increased due 
to the combination of Goonyella to Abbot Point 
Expansion (GAPE) revenue at commercial returns 
commencing in January 2012 and tariffs being set 
at a lower forecast tonnage level.

3 Underlying results differ from the Group’s statutory results. Refer reconciliation to statutory earnings on page 69.

$257.0M$158.8MFY12FY11FY10$224.2MCoal – Underlying3 EBIT$341.4MFY12FY112FY102YEAR IN REVIEW  |  QR NATIONAL

11

Image: Pring facility – Sam Merrypor

Capital expenditure grew from $196 million to 
$332 million to support iron ore growth projects 
which is expected to result in iron ore tonnages 
tripling between 2010 and 2014.

Freight – Key Financials and Metrics

FY11

FY12 VARIANCE

Tonnages 
(million)

ntk (billion)

61.5

19.0

66.6

21.0

Revenue ($m)

1,277

1,524

8%

11%

19%

94%

4 ppt

226%

5 ppt

89

7%

31

2%

173

11%

100

7%

196

332

69%

67.3

72.6

8%

65.7

98%

67.8

93%

3%

5 ppt

EBITDA ($m)

Margin %

EBIT ($m)

Margin %

Capital 
Expenditure1 ($m)

Revenue / NTK  
(A$/000 NTK)

Opex/ NTK  
(A$/000 NTK)

Operating Ratio

1 Excludes capitalised interest

Network Services contributed full year revenue  
of $1,210 million and underlying3 EBIT of  
$341 million, up on the prior comparable period  
by 3 per cent and 13 per cent respectively. 

Work continued on a number of strategic growth 
projects to position the Company to capture 
the forecasted increase in coal production over 
coming years with capital expenditure for the 
year totalling $663 million. During the year, the 
Company delivered the $1.1 billion GAPE project, 
the largest single growth project on the Central 
Queensland Coal Network. Construction also 
began on the Wiggins Island Rail Project. Further 
details about QR National’s growth projects in the 
Network business are contained on pages 12–13 
of this Annual Report.

Network Services – Key Financials  
and Metrics

FY112

FY12 VARIANCE

FREIGHT

Freight – Underlying3 EBIT

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

$30.6M

FY10

FY12

2%

3%

3%

13%

5 ppt

13%

2 ppt

4%

4%

0%

3 ppt

Tonnages 
(million)

164.0

166.7

ntk (billion)

40.0

41.2

Revenue ($m)

1,180

1,210

EBITDA ($m)

466

527

Margin %

EBIT ($m)

Margin %
Capital 
Expenditure1 ($m)
Access Revenue 
/ NTK (A$/000 
NTK)
Maintenance $  
/ ’000 NTK
NTK / Track km 
(000’s)

39% 44%

301

341

26% 28%

683

663

– 3%

17.4

18.1

2.5

2.6

17,558

17,518

Operating Ratio

75% 72%

1 Excludes capitalised interest
2 Restated due to a retrospective application of a voluntary 
change in accounting policy relating to mechanised 
Ballast undercutting as explained in note 1(q) on page 56.

Business Summary

QR National’s freight business transports more 
than 60 million tonnes per annum of bulk minerals 
and commodities including iron ore, agricultural 
products, mining and industrial inputs and general 
and containerised freight. 

$(95.8)M

The bulk business operates primarily in Queensland 
and Western Australia providing transport services 
to the mining sector and a range of companies 
marketing chemical, industrial and agricultural 
products. QR National is Australia’s largest iron ore 
haulier outside of Western Australia’s Pilbara region.

The intermodal business offers containerised rail 
freight and road haulage services nationally from 
Cairns through to Perth. It includes a network of 
freight terminals and distribution centres located 
near major transport hubs and warehouses and 
storage facilities across five states.

Performance Overview

Total revenue in the Freight business grew  
19 per cent in 2011–12, or $247 million, to  
$1,524 million, over the prior year. Underlying3 
EBIT grew by 226 per cent, or $69 million, to  
$100 million. 

This result included sustained growth from  
the national bulk business, iron ore in Western 
Australia and the intermodal business together 
with the ongoing Transport Services Contract  
with the Queensland Government for the provision  
of general freight and livestock services to 
Queensland customers.

3 Underlying results differ from the Group’s statutory results. Refer reconciliation to statutory earnings on page 69.

$99.9MFY11         
         
12

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Growth

QR National has a broad portfolio 
of capital projects that will help 
create long term growth for the 
Company and our valued customers. 
These initiatives, which are at 
various stages of investigation and 
development and across our major 
product lines, are set out in the 
following pages.

Image: GAPE – First Train on Northern “Missing” Link

Goonyella to Abbot Point Expansion

QR National unveiled a new transport link for 
the Queensland coal industry in December 2011, 
opening the $1.1 billion Goonyella to Abbot Point 
Expansion project (GAPE) in the northern Bowen 
Basin coalfields. Construction of the 69-kilometre 
Northern “Missing” Link was the central component 
of the GAPE project, coupled with major upgrades  
to the existing Newlands and Goonyella coal 
systems. The GAPE project enables up to 50 million 
tonnes of coal a year to be railed to the upgraded 
Abbot Point Coal Terminal which is more than 
double the present capacity and provides the 
platform for potential future expansions of  
200 million tonnes and more. Despite the 
challenges of Queensland’s extraordinary wet 
weather in 2010–11, the GAPE project was 
commissioned a month ahead of schedule, with 
final associated works completed by year end.  
It demonstrated the Company’s strong capability 
to build major rail infrastructure, aligned to customer 
and market demand, on time and budget. 

Wiggins Island Rail Project

In September 2011, QR National signed an 
agreement with a consortium of coal companies  
to construct the $900 million Wiggins Island Rail 
Project to service the new Wiggins Island Coal 
Export Terminal (WICET) at the Port of Gladstone. 
The project will support the initial 27 million tonnes  
per annum of coal to WICET and leverage  
QR National’s existing rail infrastructure to boost 
coal exports from the southern end of the Bowen 
Basin by 30 per cent. Construction began in March 
2012 with timeframes aligned to the coal export 
terminal and the development of related mining 
projects. First railings are scheduled for mid-2014 
with overall project completion by March 2015. 
The Wiggins Island Rail Project is QR National’s 
first major rail infrastructure investment since the 
Company was listed.

Blackwater Electrification

The $195 million Blackwater Power Strengthening 
Project is scheduled for completion in the first 
quarter of 2012–13. The project will nearly double 
the electrical capacity on the Blackwater rail 
system in Central Queensland which connects coal 
mines west of Rockhampton (in the south Bowen 
Basin) to the export terminals at Gladstone. The 
project involves the expansion of the Blackwater 
electric traction system, including four electrical 
feeder stations and associated infrastructure at 
Bluff, Wycarbah, Duaringa and Raglan, between 
Blackwater and Mount Larcom. The project, which 
is the largest electrical upgrade since the initial 
electrification of the network in the 1980s, provides 
coal customers with greater flexibility for rail 
haulage on the Blackwater rail system.

GROWTH  |  QR NATIONAL

13

Goonyella System Expansion

QR National continues to progress a $185 million 
expansion to increase the Goonyella system 
capacity from 129 to 140 million tonnes per annum. 
This is supporting a project by BHP Billiton 
Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) to lift the capacity 
at Hay Point Coal Terminal, near Mackay in 
Queensland. Delivery of the capital project will be 
aligned to the port expansion that is due to come 
on line in early 2014. The project includes an 
electricity feeder station as well as track duplication. 

Surat Basin Railway 

QR National is a one third joint-venture partner in 
the Surat Basin Railway, with the ATEC Rail Group 
and Xstrata Coal. The proposed Surat Basin Rail 
includes a new 210 kilometre rail corridor from 
Wandoan to the Moura system near Banana,  
130 kilometres west of Gladstone. The Surat Basin 
Railway will align with the second stage of the 
development of the Wiggins Island Coal Export 
Terminal. Pending the necessary approvals, Surat 
Basin Rail is working toward a final investment 
decision on the project in 2013 with construction 
to follow thereafter. QR National is also progressing 
feasibility and design work on a capacity increase 
for the Moura line that will connect with the Surat 
Basin Railway.

Bowen and Galilee Basin Expansion

In January 2012, QR National’s Central 
Queensland Integrated Rail Project (CQIRP) was 
declared a “significant project” by the Queensland 
Co-ordinator General. Subsequently the Company 
welcomed an announcement by the Queensland 
Government in June to facilitate development of 
the Bowen and Galilee Basins via an expansion of 
QR National’s existing rail system. The project is 
focused on delivering an innovative supply chain 
solution for Queensland’s coal sector comprising 
both above and below rail. The first stage includes 
QR National’s commitment to expand the current 
capacity on the Goonyella/Newlands corridors by 
at least 25 million tonnes per annum.

QR National is also progressing a proposal for the 
staged development of a west to east common 
corridor and supporting north-south connections, 
connecting new Galilee mines to the existing 
coal network near North Goonyella mine. These 
expansions will be undertaken in consultation 
with customers to ensure alignment with their 
development plans and to support growth of the 
Queensland resources sector. The Company is 
working closely with customers on their preferred 
solution and recently signed with miners Vale and 
Adani to explore rail solutions for their new mines 
in both the Galilee and Bowen Basins. 

Expansions of the existing coal chain offers 
producers efficient, cost effective rail solutions 
to support the development of new resources 
in a competitive global coal market, while also 
minimising impact on the environment and 
regional and rural communities. The Central 
Queensland coal network represents a unique  
and highly valued asset which the Company 
aims to continue to grow for the benefit of our 
customers and for the sustainability of the coal 
industry in Queensland.

Hexham Train Maintenance Facility

Since commencing operations in the Hunter  
Valley coal region in 2005, QR National has  
secured significant market share. As the business 
expands the Company continues to make 
significant investments to support future growth 
with $385 million committed between FY10–FY12 
in 19 new 5020-class locomotives, 800 wagons  
and supporting infrastructure.

During 2011–12, QR National signalled its 
long term commitment to the Hunter Valley by 
announcing plans for a modern train support 
facility at Hexham, near the Port of Newcastle.  
The 255 hectare project site at Hexham is a 
strategic parcel of industrial land that QR National 
has owned since 2008. At an estimated capital cost 
of $100 million the proposed Hexham facility will 
support the Company’s growing New South Wales 
coal haulage business and help alleviate capacity 
pressures in the Hunter Valley coal supply chain.  
QR National plans to redevelop approximately  
30 hectares of the site for the facility. The balance 
of the land will be environmental reserve and 
available for future use. The detailed design phase 
has begun and depending on government planning 
approvals and consultation with stakeholders 
QR National plans to have the facility operational 
by mid 2014.

Iron Ore haulage growth

QR National is the fastest growing haulier of 
iron ore outside the Pilbara. The Company has 
positioned itself for involvement in the expanding 
iron ore haulage markets in Western Australia and 
has invested heavily in new facilities, rollingstock 
and people to grow the iron ore business. With 
cornerstone customers – Cliffs Natural Resources, 
Karara Mining Limited, Mt Gibson Iron and Mineral 
Resources – the Company is on track to triple the 
size of the iron ore haulage business to 30 million 
tonnes per annum by 2014.

Independent Pilbara Railway

QR National’s unique heavy haulage railway 
capability and expertise in building and operating 
multi-user railways, presents a niche opportunity 
in the Western Australian iron ore market which is 
currently dominated by single-company railways. 
The Company is evaluating the development of  
a standard gauge, multi-party railway to connect  
iron ore mines in the East Pilbara to Port Hedland.  
The value of an independent railway is that 
economies of scale can be achieved by aggregating 
the tonnages of multiple parties, as well as 
delivering efficiency gains across a co-ordinated 
supply chain. The current use of road haulage is not 
sustainable or efficient for large scale tonnages. 

The Company is working with Atlas Iron and 
Brockman Resources to jointly study a proposal to 
service iron ore deposits of Atlas, Brockman and 
other miners in the first stage of the proposed 
infrastructure development. The railway would be 
developed on the basis of miners connecting and 
accessing the railway through staged development. 
The study is expected to be completed by the end 
of 2012. Any developed proposal would be subject 
to further agreement between each company 
and the approvals and investment hurdles of their 
respective Boards, however, commencement of 
operations for the initial stages could commence 
in 2015.  

Moorebank

During 2011–12, QR National exercised its  
pre-emptive rights to acquire additional equity  
in the Moorebank Industrial Property Trust (MIPT) 
for $41 million taking the Company’s stake in 
the site to 33 per cent. Qube Logistics holds the 
remaining 67 per cent. The Moorebank site is a 
key strategic development for Sydney land based 
logistics and a critical component in the growth of 
Australia’s intermodal freight sector. QR National 
acquired its original stake in Moorebank in 2007 
because of its strategic value for future land based 
freight logistics. The 83 hectare site requires 
redevelopment to accommodate a multi-user open 
access intermodal rail facility with a capacity of  
up to one million containers per year and enabling 
rail links to the interstate network and to Port 
Botany. The development proposal for the site 
is significantly advanced and an environmental 
assessment (EA) of the concept plan for the  
project has been recently lodged with New South 
Wales planning authorities. Subject to approvals  
by the Federal Government and the NSW 
Government and agreement with the current tenant 
of the property, the Department of Defence, the 
Moorebank site development could be completed 
during 2014.

14

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Sustainability

QR National’s operations are 
underpinned by our commitment to 
economically viable, environmentally 
sound and socially responsible 
performance. Our approach seeks to 
minimise risk to the environment 
while contributing to the economic 
growth and development of the 
communities in which we operate.

Image: Graduates Renee Johnson, Darnah Egert, Tony Cao

SAFETy
At QR National, the safety of our employees, 
our customers and the communities in which we 
operate is our number one priority. Our safety goal 
of ZEROHARM means no injuries to anyone, ever. 

QR National has a comprehensive approach to 
safety and risk management, which includes 
targeted internal initiatives to improve safety 
culture and to establish robust safety systems  
and behaviours among the workforce. 

Our aim is to become world class in safety, and  
the Company is already among Australia’s leaders 
in rail safety. This steadfast commitment to 
safety is also the basis of our drive for continuous 
improvement across the Company.

QR National’s Central Safety Committee, which 
includes the Managing Director & CEO, his 
direct reports and other senior executives, is 
tasked with leading, reviewing and directing the 
implementation of all safety programs. Its core 
function is to promote and advance safety at  
QR National.

QR National has sought to embed our safety 
culture in the mindset of every employee and to 
prioritise ZEROHARM as a way of life. During the 
year, we implemented a range of safety, health 
and behavioural change campaigns targeting 
ZEROHARM, injury prevention, road safety, and 
workplace health and safety. 

In February 2012, QR National announced a  
long-term sponsorship with the Heart Foundation.  
This partnership is a key part of our commitment  
to the health and well-being of our employees.  
The Heart Foundation program promotes a healthy 
lifestyle and the importance of early detection  
of stroke to our employees and their families. 

Throughout the year, the Company continued 
to build on the safety focused Communities 
of Competence program. Communities of 
Competence provides a collaborative, co-ordinated 
and best-practice approach to targeting critical 
safety areas for the Company, including Trackside 
Safety, Road Safety, Isolation and Lockout, Fitness 
for Work, Derailments, Signals Passed At Danger, 
and Peer Review. 

These safety based cultural change programs  
have delivered significant improvement in our 
safety performance over the past few years, 
in particular, a decline in our Lost Time Injury 
Frequency Rate (LTIFR). Since June 2009, QR 
National has achieved a 79 per cent reduction on 
our LTIFR from 11.43 to 2.40 as at 30 June 2012.  

Rail safety in the community is an important 
area of focus for QR National. We are an 
active participant in the Australasian Railway 
Association’s TrackSAFE Foundation, which is 
working to reduce incidents on rail networks.  
Our Company also implemented several targeted 
rail safety programs in the communities in which 
we operate over the past year. 

Between February and June 2012 QR National 
worked collaboratively with Queensland Rail 
on a community based rail safety program in 
Central Queensland. The campaign targeted local 
schools, transport operators, local businesses and 
community groups to promote rail safety. In May 
2012 we also launched a campaign targeted at 
transport operators in Queensland to promote 
electrical safety on the rail network, in conjunction 
with the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

QR National is in the process of investing  
$15 million to upgrade level crossings with 
boom gates and/or flashing lights on the Central 
Queensland Coal Network. We are also contributing 
$10 million to build a rail overpass at Gracemere  
(near Rockhampton). When complete in early  
2013 two level crossings in Queensland on the 
Blackwater line at Somerset Road and Malchi-Nine 
Mile Road will be permanently closed.

In New South Wales, as part of the Company’s 
three-year sponsorship of the Newcastle Knights, 
the Company launched a rail safety education 
program in March. Hundreds of school children in 
the Hunter region will learn about the dangers of 
rail level crossings and trespassing over the next 
three years through the program. 

Road safety is a critical issue, both inside and 
outside of work, for our employees. In September 
2011, QR National launched a company wide 
campaign to encourage employees (and their 
families and friends) to be safe on the roads.  
The ‘Thanks Mate’ campaign acknowledges  
that most people drive and ride safely and it  
aims to reinforce this positive behaviour. 

A range of road safety topics which  
have been addressed through the campaign over 
the past 12 months are key contributors to the 
Australian road toll including speeding, drink 
driving, fatigue, not wearing a seatbelt, distractions, 
pedestrian and cycle safety, motorcycle safety,  
and driving to the conditions.

SuSTAINAbILITY  |  QR NATIONAL

15

For more information on QR National’s Values, 
please refer to the Corporate Governance 
Statement on page 39 of this Annual Report.  
The Code is available on the Company’s website  
at www.qrnational.com.au/Corporate/Pages/
Governance.aspx 

Diversity

QR National recognises the social and commercial 
value of a diverse workforce that is representative 
of Australian society. The Company continues its 
efforts to build a stronger female workforce in a 
traditionally male dominated industry, recognising 
that such diversity will produce more innovative 
outcomes for our stakeholders. 

QR National’s Diversity Council and its leadership 
team have been tasked with ensuring frontline 
leaders in our workforce strive for diverse teams. 
The number of female employees has increased  
by six percent in 2011–12. Across the workforce  
12.3 per cent of employees are female. The 
Diversity Council has an explicit focus on gender 
diversity, setting specific targets and launching 
initiatives to support our diversity goals.

As part of our commitment under the Australian 
Employment Covenant to provide sustainable  
job opportunities for Indigenous Australians,  
QR National continued our Indigenous employment 
journey during 2011–12. QR National is committed 
to working closely with Indigenous communities 
to attract and retain at least 400 Indigenous 
employees, while providing support mechanisms  
for the development of long-term careers with  
the Company.

Further details on the Company’s diversity policy and 
performance are set out in the Corporate Governance 
Statement on page 39 of this Annual Report. 

PEOPLE
In positioning QR National for long term growth 
and superior performance, the Company is 
committed to developing a highly skilled and 
diverse workforce. Our greatest strength will always 
be our people and the capability they bring to the 
business each and every day.

The Company’s 9,000 employees live and work in 
those local communities throughout Australia where 
we operate. The majority of our employees live and 
work in regional Australia, outside of State capitals. 

Our Values  

•	

•	

•	

Safety

Integrity

Leadership,	Passion	and	Courage

•	 World	Class	Performance.

QR National’s values are an integral component 
of  the Company’s new Code of Conduct (Code), 
which was launched nationally in July 2011. The 
Code clearly identifies a high set of expectations 
in the way members of our workforce interact with 
one another, our customers and other stakeholders, 
to ensure our business is respected for its safe, 
professional, honest and commercial outlook. 

This includes all employees

•	

•	

Targeting ZEROHARM

Living	our	values	and	complying	with	our	
policies, standards and other management 
frameworks

•	 Valuing	and	appreciating	each	others’	unique	
contributions to the Company’s future and 
treating one another with respect.

An e-learning module was implemented during 
the year to assist all QR National employees to 
understand the Code. This training package was 
recognised with an award at the Asia Pacific 
Learning and Technology Impact Awards 2012. 

TOTAL EMPLOyEES  
8,969

1,079 

64

Queensland total comprises regions:
North –896; Central –2,940; South–3,338

7,174

427

225

 
  
16

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

PEOPLE (continued)

‘Grow our own’

We know that attracting the right people  

and nurturing a pipeline of talent is critical to  

QR National’s future commercial success.

The Company provides employees with internal 

promotion opportunities across the nation, working 

with employees to improve performance and build 

capabilities through apprenticeships, traineeships 

and graduate programs.

QR National’s approach to attracting and 

retaining talent in particular labour segments is 

supported by the implementation of the ‘grow 

our own’ strategies. The Company’s commitment 

to increase the intake of graduates, apprentices 

and trainees to 300 per annum by 2013 is well 

underway, with a 2011–12 intake of 219 compared 

to a target of 200.

Work has begun in earnest to recruit 300 

apprentices, graduates and trainees for 2012–13. 

Following a fresh, targeted attraction campaign 

during the year, the Company recorded a  

ENVIRONMENT
Environmental sustainability is an important area 
of focus for QR National. As one of Australia’s 
largest rail transport providers, QR National 
acknowledges the important role it can play in 
leading environmental sustainability for customers, 
communities and for the transport industry generally. 

Environmental Policy

In adopting a proactive approach to mitigating  
the Company’s environmental footprint, a 
company wide Environmental Policy is in place to 
guide continuous improvement in environmental 
performance of the operational activities and 
services QR National provide. Under this Policy, 
the Company assesses environmental risk before 
undertaking activities. QR National employees  
are accountable for ensuring all business activities, 
facilities and equipment within their area of 
responsibility are managed in accordance with  
this Policy.

This policy is available on the Company’s website 
at: www.qrnational.com.au/Corporate/Pages/
Environment.aspx 

144 per cent increase in graduate applications. 

Energy

Overall female applications increased by  

166 per cent which was an extremely positive 

outcome for the Company’s promotion of  

gender diversity. 

Enhanced partnerships with Indigenous community 

groups and secondary schools have also 

increased the number of Indigenous employment 

opportunities for apprentices and trainees. An 

Indigenous Ambassador works with QR National 

managers in targeted areas to strengthen 

community connections which is resulting in 

a higher level of interest in work experience 
placements and school based apprenticeships. 

During 2011–12 QR National continued to improve 
processes to ensure the Company’s environmental 
obligations were met and managed and energy 
efficiency savings identified. 

QR National met all of its obligations under  
the National Greenhouse Energy Reporting  
(NGER) Act 2007 (Cth) and Energy Efficiency 
Opportunity (EEO) Act 2006 (Cth) during the 
period. The Company received renewed 
confirmation of registration under the NGER Act 
on 26 September 2011 and the EEO Act on  
29 May 2012. An independent regulatory audit  
of QR National’s NGER report for 2010–11 
confirmed the report was in accordance with 
section 19 of the NGER Act in all material respects. 

An automated e-learning Environmental 
Compliance module was developed during the  
year to allow live compliance tracking against  
100 per cent of our compliance requirements  
and to collate and track NGER data. 

In a new initiative, the Company implemented 
data loggers and event recorders on a number  
of our train consists. The New South Wales Hunter 
Valley Coal System is trialling the use of event 
recorders on the 5020-class locomotives for safety 
and fuel consumption improvements. Early studies 
show the data loggers, when combined with 
adequate training and analytics, can deliver an 
estimated 10 per cent saving in fuel use.

An EEO Steering Committee was established in 
2011–12. The Committee oversees compliance 
responsibilities, undertakes assessments and 
identifies new opportunities for energy efficiency. 
The Committee will also progress a number of 
previously identified opportunities to achieve 
energy efficiencies across the QR National business 
including improving driver performance via training 
and feedback systems and the introduction of new 
generation lAC traction locomotives.

Carbon 

QR National is committed to finding and adopting 
environmentally sound practices to effectively 
reduce the Company’s carbon footprint across its 
operations. Rail freight is up to 10 times more fuel 
efficient and produces up to 10 times less carbon 
emissions than road transport, highlighting the 
inherent environmental advantages of rail over road. 

On 1 July 2012 the Federal Government introduced 
a carbon tax levied at $23 per tonne. QR National 
will not be required to trade in permits but will  
see an increase in costs through an adjustment  
of fuel tax rebates and electricity tariffs. To ensure 
a smooth transition to the new program, a carbon 
tax working group was established during the  
year to evaluate the implications of the tax  
and to notify customers of pricing changes. The 
financial impact of the carbon tax on QR National 
will be minimal.

Coal Dust

During 2011–12, QR National collaborated with 
the coal industry in Queensland to implement 
a Coal Dust Management Plan. This involves 
the implementation of spray stations with dust 
suppressing chemicals, known as “veneers”, to 
reduce coal dust produced from wagons.  Over  
the course of the year, QR National installed  
12 veneering stations to service 13 mines in 
Central Queensland. It is planned that all Central 
Queensland mines will have the spray stations 
installed by December 2013.

Image: Graduate – Renee Johnson

SuSTAINAbILITY  |  QR NATIONAL

17

This regional partnership supports the Company’s 
national business growth, as well as assists 
in improving brand awareness and employee 
attraction and retention. The partnership provides 
an extensive range of community initiatives, 
including a Rail Safety Term (targeting over 
1,000 school children with rail safety messaging), 
an employee health and well-being program, 
community recognition programs and gala days.

50%

Making a Difference

COMMuNITy

Community Commitment

As an engaged corporate citizen, QR National has 
designed its social investment portfolio to enhance 
and support communities, its employees and 
customers in three broad areas: health and  
well being, community safety and education.

As Queensland communities began the recovery 
process from the previous year of devastating 
natural disasters, QR National increased its 
contributions to communities where it operates 
and employees reside through dedicated company 
programs and partnerships.

QR National’s commitment to communities 
encompasses charitable gifts and donations, 
in-kind support, community investment and 
commercial initiatives. 

Community Giving

In September 2011 QR National announced the 
launch of its dedicated charitable grants program, 
the Community Giving Fund. The Community 
Giving Fund is a national bi-annual round of cash 
grants to non-profit organisations. These grants 
have been designed to help improve and sustain 
local communities with their immediate and  
long-terms needs. 

During the year QR National’s Community Giving 
Fund distributed grants ranging from $1,000 to 
$20,000 to more than 53 charities across the nation.

Community Giving Fund
Focus area %

Community Giving Fund
By region %

6%

23%

21%

QLD

NSW

WA

VIC

A full listing of QR National’s Community Giving 
Fund recipients is available on the Company’s 
website at: www.qrnational.com.au/community  

In May 2012 QR National was awarded the 
Charities Aid Foundation 2012 Community Award, 
acknowledging the efforts of companies and 
foundations excelling in community giving.

Assisting Families in Need

QR National provides an in-kind freight assistance 
program supporting a number of Queensland 
charities in the distribution of donated goods 
(such as recycled clothing and books) to struggling 
families in need. 

During 2011–12, the QR National in-kind freight 
support provided assistance to charities including:

•	

•	

The	Salvation	Army

Lifeline	

•	 Australian	Red	Cross

•	

St	Vincent	de	Paul.

21%

36%

43%

Annually, QR National and its employees donate 
to a number of charities, including The Salvation 
Army Christmas Toy Appeal and the Red Shield 
Doorknock Appeal.

Health and Well-being

Community Safety

Education

Community Partnerships

During the year QR National announced national, 
regional and local community and commercial 
partnerships forming part of our broader social 
investment portfolio.

Expanding our Reach

In November 2011, QR National entered into a 
major regional partnership, the first outside of 
Queensland, announcing a dual-club sponsorship 
with the Hunter Sports Group as Major Sponsor of 
the Newcastle Knights and Newcastle Jets.  

On 14 February 2012 QR National announced a 
three year national partnership with the Heart 
Foundation in a mission to raise awareness of 
Australia’s number one disease and to prevent  
cardiovascular-related deaths across the nation.

As one of the most recognised charities in Australia, 
the Heart Foundation plays an important role in 
providing Australians with the best heart health 
information and raising funds for life-saving research.

As a Foundation Sponsor of the Heart Foundation, 
QR National is the largest supporter of this charity, 
involved with flagship programs such as their 
national Warning Signs campaign, Go Red for 
Women, Workplace Walking Groups, and Jump 
Rope for Heart. The partnership also conducts 
between 30 and 50 depot site visits across the 
organisation in a bid to raise awareness and bring 
change to employee health and well-being.

Continuing to Support the CQNRL Bid

During the year QR National continued its support 
of the Central Queensland National Rugby League 
(CQNRL) in its bid for a national rugby league 
licence in the Central Queensland region. The bid 
covers a large area of our operations within Central 
Queensland — stretching as far north as Mackay, 
south to Bundaberg and west to the border. With a 
large portion of the Company’s employees living or 
working in the area, the Company is proud to back 
the bid for a second year.  As part of its support of 
the CQNRL Bid, QR National continued its health, 
well-being and education focus with a dedicated 
scholarship program and more than 120 visits to 
local schools.

Support at a Local Level

Functional areas across QR National also provide 
local support aligning with our business interests 
or geographic reach. Some of our partners include 
the Esperence Tradies of Tomorrow, Mackay Bike 
Safety, North Queensland Bush Children’s Program, 
Gladstone Botanic to Bridge Fun Run, Alligator 
Creek State School Shade Program, Tannum Sands 
Surf Life Saving Club and the Collinsville Youth Hall 
and Sporting Facility.

An overview of QR National’s local partnerships  
is available on the Company’s website:  
www.qrnational.com.au/community 

 
 
18

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report

QR National Limited Directors’ Report
For the year ended 30 June 2012

The Directors of QR National present their Directors’ 
Report together with the Financial Report of the 
Company and its controlled entities (collectively, 
“the Consolidated Entity” or “the Group”) for 
the financial year ended 30 June 2012 and the 
Independent Auditor’s Report thereon. This 
Directors’ Report has been prepared in accordance 
with the requirements of Division 1 of Part 2M.3  
of the Corporations Act.

Board Of Directors

The following people are Directors of the Company, 
or were Directors during the reporting period:

J B Prescott AC 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(Chairman, Independent Non-Executive Director)

L E Hockridge 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(MD & CEO)

G T John AO 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

J Atkin 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

R R Caplan 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

A J P Staines 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

G T Tilbrook 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

K L Field 
(appointed 19 April 2012) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

J D Cooper 
(appointed 19 April 2012) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

A J Davies 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(resigned 13 December 2011) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

P C Kenny 
(appointed 14 September 2010) 
(passed away 8 October 2011) 
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

Details of the experience, qualifications and  
special responsibilities and other Directorships  
of listed companies in respect to each of the 
directors as at the date of this Directors’ Report  
are set out in the pages following.

J B Prescott AC
Experience:
Mr Prescott has substantial 
experience in the mining, 
manufacturing, transport 
and government sectors. 
He was a long term executive of The Broken Hill 
Proprietary Company Limited (now BHP Billiton 
Limited), serving 10 years as an Executive Director 
and seven years as Managing Director and Chief 
Executive Officer (1991–98). He was also Chairman 
of ASC (formerly Australian Submarine Corporation 
Pty Ltd) from 2000–2009.

Mr Prescott has been a Director of Newmont 
Mining Corporation, a Global Counsellor of The 
Conference Board since 2001 and a member of 
the Commonwealth Remuneration Tribunal since 
2010. Other Directorships and consulting/advisory 
positions have included Conference Board USA, 
World Economic Forum, Booz Allen and Hamilton, 
J.P. Morgan Chase & Co, Proudfoot Consulting, and 
Asia Pacific Advisory Committee of New York  
Stock Exchange.

Qualifications: 
BCom (Indus Rel), HonDsc, HonLLD, FAICD,  
FAIM, FTSE

Special Responsibilities: 
Member of: 
(i) Governance & Nomination Committee  
(ii) Remuneration & Succession Committee  
(iii) Safety & Environment Committee

Australian Listed Company Directorships  
held in the past three years  
None other than QR National Limited.

L E Hockridge
Experience:
Mr Hockridge joined  
QR Limited as Chief 
Executive Officer in 2007 
with extensive experience 
in the transportation and heavy industrial sectors 
in Australia and the United States. He is a Director 
of a number of QR National Limited wholly owned 
subsidiaries and Chairman of the Australasian 
Railway Association. During a 30 year career with 
The Broken Hill Proprietary Company Limited  
(now BHP Billiton Limited) and BlueScope Steel,  
Mr Hockridge was a member of the leadership 
team that led to BlueScope Steel’s successful 
demerger from BHP and the creation of a new 
publicly listed company.

In 2005, Mr Hockridge was appointed President 
of BlueScope Steel’s North American operations, 
where he led a major turnaround in safety, 
production and financial performance. Other roles 
at BHP included human resources and industrial 
relations, General Manager of BHP Transport,  
Head of Long Products Business and President  
of Industrial Markets.

Qualifications:
FCILT, FAIM, MAICD

Special Responsibilities: 
Director of QR Network Pty Ltd
Member of: 
(i) Governance & Nomination Committee 
(ii) Safety & Environment Committee

Australian Listed Company Directorships  
held in the past three years: 
None other than QR National Limited.

DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

19

Australian Listed Company Directorships held  
in the past three years
Sipa Resources Limited – Independent Non-
Executive Director
Commenced  – 16 September 2004 (ongoing)
MACA Limited 
(27 May 2011 – 1 May 2012)
Perilya Limited (16 August 2007 – 5 February 2009)

J D Cooper
Experience:
Mr Cooper has more 
than 35 years experience 
in the construction and 
engineering sector in 

Australia and overseas. Currently, Mr Cooper is 
Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Southern 
Cross Electrical Engineering Limited and also holds 
Non-Executive Directorships with NRW Holdings 
Limited, Flinders Mines Limited and Neptune 
Marine Services Ltd.  

During his career as an executive Mr Cooper’s roles 
have encompassed large civil, commercial and 
infrastructure projects and complex engineering 
and project management activities in the mining, 
oil and gas, engineering and property sectors.

Qualifications:

BSc (Building), FIE Aust, FAICD, FAIM

Special Responsibilities:

Member of Safety & Environment Committee

Director of QR Network Pty Ltd

Australian Listed Company Directorships held  
in the past three years:

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering Limited – 
Chairman and Non-Executive Director

Commenced – 30 October 2007 (ongoing)

Flinders Mines Limited – Non-Executive Director

Commenced – 13 September 2010 (ongoing)

NRW Holdings Limited – Non-Executive Director

Commenced – 29 March 2011 (ongoing)

Neptune Marine Services Ltd – Non-Executive Director

Commenced – 4 April 2012 (ongoing)

Clough Limited (24 August 2006 – 31 January 2010)

J Atkin
Experience:
Mr Atkin has more than  
25 years experience in 
financial services and the 
legal profession in Australia and internationally.

Mr Atkin is Chief Executive Officer of The Trust 
Company Limited, a Director of The Australian 
Outward Bound Foundation and a member of the 
Financial Services Advisory Council of the Australian 
Government.  Previously, Mr Atkin was Managing 
Partner of Blake Dawson (2002-2008) and a 
Corporate and Mergers & Acquisitions partner at 
Mallesons Stephen Jacques (1987-2002).  During 
the period he was a practising lawyer Mr Atkin was 
widely regarded as one of the leading corporate 
lawyers in Australia.

Qualifications: 
BA (Hons), LLB (Hons), FAICD

Special Responsibilities:

Chairman of Governance & Nomination Committee 
Director of QR Network Pty Ltd

Australian Listed Company Directorships held  
in the past three years:

The Trust Company Limited – CEO and  
Executive Director
Commenced – 19 January 2009 (ongoing)

R R Caplan
Experience:
Mr Caplan has extensive 
international experience 
in the oil and gas industry. 
In a 42 year career with Shell, he held senior roles 
in the upstream and downstream operations and 
corporate functions in Australia and overseas. From 
1997 to 2006 he had senior international postings 
in the UK, Europe and the USA. From 2006 to 
July 2010 he was Chairman of the Shell Group of 
Companies in Australia.

Mr Caplan is Chairman of the Melbourne and 
Olympic Parks Trust, Chairman of the Cooperative 
Research Centre for Contamination Assessment  
and Remediation of the Environment, a Non-
Executive Director of Orica Limited and member 
of the Board of the Committee for the Economic 
Development of Australia (CEDA). He is a former 
Non-Executive Director of Woodside Petroleum 
Limited and the former Chairman of the Australian 
Institute of Petroleum.

Qualifications:
LLB, FAICD

Special Responsibilities:

Chairman of Remuneration & Succession Committee 
Member of Audit & Risk Management Committee

Australian Listed Company Directorships held  
in the past three years:

Orica Limited – Non-Executive Director
Commenced – 1 October 2007 (ongoing)

G T John AO
Experience:

Mr John has 30 years 
management experience 
in the transport operations 
sector including 16 years as Managing Director of 
Australia Post. He was also a Senior Executive of 
TNT Australia Ltd.

Mr John is a Director of Seven West Media Ltd, 
Racing Victoria and a commissioner of the 
Australian Football League. His previous roles 
include Chairman of Australian Air Express, 
Chairman of Star Track Express, Chairman of the 
Kahala Posts Group, Director of the International 
Post Corporation (Netherlands), Vice Chairman of 
Sai-Cheng Logistics International (China) and a 
trustee of the Committee for Melbourne and the 
MCG. He has received the Australian Sports Medal 
and Centenary Medal.

Qualifications:
FCILT, MAICD

Special Responsibilities:
Chairman of Safety & Environment Committee
Member of Remuneration & Succession Committee 
Director of QR Network Pty Ltd

Australian Listed Company Directorships held  
in the past three years:
Seven West Media Ltd – Non-Executive Director 
Commenced – 3 December 2008 (ongoing)

K L Field
Experience:
Mrs Field has more than 
30 years experience in the 
mining industry in Australia 
and overseas and has a 

strong background in human resources and project 
management.

Currently Mrs Field is a Non-Executive director of 
a number of listed and unlisted entities including 
Sipa Resources Limited and Water Corporation 
of Western Australia. Prior to this, Mrs Field held 
Non-Executive Directorships with the Centre 
for Sustainable Resource Processing, Electricity 
Networks Corporation (Western Power), MACA 
Limited and Perilya Limited.

In addition Mrs Field is a Director of a number 
of community based organisations including 
aged care provider Amana Living Inc, The Gravity 
Discovery Centre Foundation and the University of 
Western Australia’s Centenary Trust for Women. 

Qualifications:
B Econ, MACD

Special Responsibilites
Member of
(i) Audit & Risk Committee 
(ii) Remuneration & Succession Committee

 
20

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report 
(continued)

A J P Staines
Experience:
Ms Staines has extensive 
corporate, financial and 
commercial experience and 

advisory experience in governance, strategy and 
risk management. She is a Director of Goodstart 
Early Learning, North Queensland Airports and 
Allconnex Water. Former Directorships include the 
Australian Rail Track Corporation, Gladstone Ports 
Corporation and Early Learning Services (now G8).

Ms Staines is a former Chief Executive Officer  
of Australian Airlines, a Qantas subsidiary she  
co-launched in 2002 as a member of the carrier’s 
12 person senior team. She previously held  
various financial, strategy and economic roles  
at Qantas. Prior to this, she held various financial 
roles at American Airlines’ headquarters in Dallas. 
Ms Staines is a Member of CEW (Chief Executive 
Women).

Qualifications:
BEcon, MBA, FAICD

Special Responsibilities:
Chairman of QR Network Pty Ltd  
Member of Audit & Risk Management Committee

Australian Listed Company Directorships held  
in the past three years:

G8 Education Limited (12 May 2009 – 27 May 2010)

G T Tilbrook
Experience:
Mr Tilbrook has broad 
experience in corporate 
strategy, investment and 

finance. He joined Wesfarmers in 1985 and was an 
Executive Director from 2002 to 2009. Between 
2000 and 2006, when Wesfarmers was a joint 
owner of the Australian Railroad Group (ARG),  
he was a Director of ARG and Chairman of  
Westnet Rail. Mr Tilbrook is Chairman of 
Transpacific Industries and a Director of Fletcher 
Building, GPT Group, the Perth International Arts 
Festival, the Bell Shakespeare Company and the 
Committee for Perth. He is also a Councillor of 
Curtin University and the Australian Institute of 
Company Directors WA.

Qualifications:
BSc, MBA

Special Responsibilities:
Chairman of Audit & Risk Management
Committee
Member of Governance & Nomination Committee

Australian Listed Company Directorships held  
in the past three years:

GPT Group Limited – Non-Executive Director

Commenced – 11 May 2010 (ongoing)  
Fletcher Building Limited – Non-Executive Director

Commenced – 1 September 2009 (ongoing)

Transpacific Industries Group Ltd – Non-Executive 
Chairman

Commenced – 3 September 2009 (ongoing)

Company Secretary
Mr D D Smith, BA, LLB, LLM, 
DipLegS, FCSA, FCIS, FAICD, 
was appointed Company 
Secretary of the QR Limited 
Group in May 2010 and  

to QR National Limited upon its incorporation on 
14 September 2010.

Mr Smith has over 18 years’ company secretariat, 
governance, corporate legal and senior 
management experience in ASX-listed companies. 
Mr Smith holds a Masters of Laws degree from the 
University of Sydney and is a Fellow of both the 
Chartered Secretaries Australia and the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors.

Principal Activities

The principal activities of entities within the Group, 
during the year, were:

•						Integrated	heavy	haul	freight	railway	operator
•						Rail	transporter	of	coal	from	mine	to	port	for	

export markets

•						Bulk,	general	and	containerised	freight 

businesses

•					 Large	scale	rail	services	activities.	

Coal
Transport of coal from mines in Queensland and 
New South Wales to end customers and ports.

Freight
Transport of bulk mineral commodities (including 
iron ore), agricultural products, mining and 
industrial inputs and general freight throughout 
Queensland and Western Australia, and 
containerised freight throughout Australia.

Network Services
Provision of access to, and operation and 
management of, the Queensland coal network.

Provision of design, construction, overhaul, 
maintenance and management services to  
the Group as well as external customers.

Review of Operations

A review of the Group’s operations for the  
financial year and the results of those operations, 
are contained in the Chairman’s Report, the MD  
& CEO’s Report, and the Year in Review as set out 
on pages 4 to 11 of this report.

Dividends

An unfranked final dividend of 3.7 cents per fully 
paid ordinary share was paid on 30 September 
2011 and an unfranked interim dividend of  
3.7 cents per fully paid ordinary share was paid 
on 30 April 2012. Further details of dividends 
provided for or paid are set out in note 26 to the 
consolidated financial statements.

Since the end of the financial year the Directors 
have declared to pay a final dividend of 4.6 cents 
per fully paid ordinary share. The dividend will not 
be franked and is payable on 28 September 2012.

State of Affairs  

During the year the Company implemented a 
functional organisational structure which aligns 
with global best practice. The new structure aligns 
operational focus and customer service.

In the opinion of the Directors there were no  
other significant changes in the state of affairs  
of the Company that occurred during the financial 
year under review.

Events Since the End of the  
Financial Year

On 23 August 2012 QR National Limited, after 
considering cash forecasts and current balance 
sheet, announced to the ASX an on market 
program to buy-back up to 10% of its issued share 
capital (244 million shares).

The Group announced a voluntary redundancy 
program on 5 June 2012. As at the date of this 
document, the Group determined to accept 
approximately 750 voluntary redundancy 
applications.  Further information is set out in  
Note 39 on page 91.

The Directors are not aware of any events or 
developments which are not set out in this report 
that have or would have a significant effect on 
the Group’s state of affairs, its operations or its 
expected results in future years.

Likely Developments  

Information about likely developments in the 
operations of the Group and the expected results 
of those operations are covered in the Chairman’s 
Report, the MD & CEO’s Report, and the Year in 
Review as set out on pages 4 to 11 of this report. 
In the opinion of the Directors, disclosure of any 
further information would be likely to result in 
unreasonable prejudice to the Group.

 
 
DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

21

Environmental Regulation and 
Performance  

QR National is committed to managing its  
operational activities and services in an 
environmentally responsible manner to meet  
legal, social and moral obligations. In order to 
deliver on this commitment QR National seeks  
to comply with all applicable environmental  
laws and regulations.

The EEO Act requires the Group to assess its energy 
usage including the identification, investigation 
and evaluation of energy-saving opportunities and 
to report publicly on the assessments undertaken, 
including what action the Group intends to take 
as a result. The Group continues to meet its 
obligations under the EEO Act.

The NGER Act requires the Group to report its 
annual greenhouse gas emissions and energy use. 
The Group has implemented systems and  
processes for the collection and calculation of the 
data required and is registered under the NGER Act. 

Further details of the Company’s Environmental 
Performance are set out on page 16 of the  
Annual Report. 

Environmental Prosecutions

There have been no environmental prosecutions 
during this financial year.

Risk Management

The Company is committed to managing its 
risks in an integrated, systematic and practical 
manner. The overall objective of risk management 
is to assist the Company to achieve its objectives 
by appropriately considering both threats and 
opportunities and making informed decisions.

The Audit & Risk Management Committee oversees 
the process for identification and management  
of risk in the Company (see page 41 of this Annual 
Report). The Company’s Risk Management Division 
is responsible for providing oversight of the risk 
management function and assurance on the 
management of significant risks to the Managing 
Director & CEO and the Board.

The Company’s risk management framework, 

responsibilities and accountabilities are aligned 

with the Company’s business model where 

the individual businesses are accountable for 

demonstrating they are managing their risks 

effectively and in accordance with the Board-

approved risk management policy and framework.

The risk management framework has a strong 

focus on key organisational controls. A focus on 

the key organisational controls helps to shape 

the strategies, capabilities and culture of the 

organisation, identify and address vulnerabilities, 

strengthen the system of internal controls and  

build a more resilient organisation.

The Company also has a risk register with risk 

profiles populated at the various layers of the 

organisation, and a management specification that 

outlines the processes for the prevention, detection 

and management of fraud within the Company, 

and for fair dealing in matters pertaining to fraud.

Directors’ Meetings
The number of Board meetings (including Board Committee meetings) and number of meetings attended by each of the Directors of the Company during the 
financial year are listed below: 

DIRECTOR

QR NATIONAL 

AUDIT & RISK 
MANAGEMENT

GOVERNANCE &  
NOMINATION

REMUNERATION & 
SUCCESSION

SAFETY & 
ENVIRONMENT

J B PRESCOTT AC 

L E HOCKRIDGE 

J ATKIN 

R R CAPLAN 

G T JOHN AO 

A J P STAINES 

G T TILBROOK 

K L FIELD

J D COOPER

A J DAVIES 

P C KENNY 

A

151

151

15

15

15

15

15

4

4

9

4

B

15

15

15

15

15

14

15

42

43

94

35

A

-

-

-

6

-

6

6

1

-

-

-

B

-

-

-

6

-

6

6

12

-

-

-

A

5

5

5

2

-

-

5

-

-

-

-

B

5

5

5

25

-

-

5

-

-

-

-

A

6

-

-

3

6

-

-

1

-

3

-

B

6

-

-

3

5

-

-

1

-

34

-

A

4

4

-

-

4

-

-

-

1

2

1

B

4

4

-

-

4

-

-

-

1

24

1

A - Number of meetings held while appointed as a Director or Member of a Committee.
B - Number of meetings attended by the Director while appointed as a Director or Member  
 of a Committee.
1 In addition to the meetings above, a Committee of the Board comprising of Mr J B Prescott 
and Mr L E Hockridge met on three occasions.

2 Mrs K L Field was appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director on 19 April 2012.
3 Mr J D Cooper was appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director on 19 April 2012.
4 Mr A J Davies resigned on 13 December 2011.
5 Mr P C Kenny passed away on 8 October 2011.
6 Mr R R Caplan resigned from the Governance and Nomination Committee on 26 October 2011.

During the year, the QR Network Pty Ltd Board met on six occassions.

Directors’ Interests

DIRECTOR

J B PRESCOTT AC

L E HOCKRIDGE

J ATKIN

R R CAPLAN

G T JOHN AO

NUMBER OF ORDINARY SHARES

DIRECTOR

NUMBER OF ORDINARY SHARES

215,434

538,763

20,908

82,132

57,132

A J P STAINES

G T TILBROOK

K L FIELD

J D COOPER

5,223

31,112

0

12,000

Directors’ interests are as at 30 June 2012.
The performance rights of Directors are set out in Section 6.1 of the Remuneration Report.

22

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report 
(continued)

Non-Audit Services

CEO and CFO Declaration

Remuneration Report  

The Remuneration Report is set out on pages  
24 to 38  and forms part of the Directors’ Report  
for the financial year ended 30 June 2012.

Rounding of Amounts

The Group is within the class specified in ASIC Class 
Order 98/100 dated 10 July 1998 relating to the 
“rounding off” of amounts in the Directors’ Report 
and the Financial Report. Amounts in the Directors’ 
Report and Financial Report have been rounded 
off to the nearest hundred thousand dollars, in 
accordance with ASIC Class Order 98/100, except 
where stated otherwise.

Auditor’s Independence Declaration

A copy of the auditor’s independence declaration, 
as required under section 307C of the Corporations 
Act, is set out on page 23.

The Directors’ Report is made in accordance with  
a resolution of the Directors of the Company.

John B Prescott AC 
Chairman

23 August 2012

During the year the Company’s auditor (PwC) 
performed other services in addition to its audit 
responsibilities. The Directors are satisfied that  
the provision of non-audit services by PwC during 
the reporting period did not compromise the 
auditor independence requirements set out in  
the Corporations Act.

All non-audit services were subject to the 
Company’s Non-Audit Services Policy and do  
not undermine the general principles relating  
to auditor independence set out in APES 110  
Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants, as  
they did not involve reviewing or auditing the 
auditor’s own work, acting in a management or 
decision-making capacity for the Company, or 
jointly sharing risks and rewards.

No officer of the Company was a former Partner 
or Director of PwC and a copy of the auditor’s 
independence declaration as required under the 
Corporations Act 2001 is set out in, and forms part 
of, this Directors’ Report.

Details of the amounts paid to the auditor of the 
Company and its related practices for non-audit 
services provided throughout the year are as set 
out below:

Other assurance services

PwC Australian firm: 

  Audit of regulatory returns

  Other assurance services

 Total remuneration for  
other assurance services

Taxation services

PwC Australian firm:

   Tax compliance services

 Total remuneration for  
taxation services

Other services

PwC Australian firm:

   Advisory services

 Total remuneration for  
other services

2012 
$’000

230.0

79.0

309.0

539.0

539.0

1,619.0

1,619.0

The Managing Director & CEO and Chief Financial 
Officer (CFO) have provided a written statement to 
the Board in accordance with section 295A of the 
Corporations Act.

With regard to the financial records and systems  
of risk management and internal compliance  
in this written statement, the Board received 
assurance from the Managing Director & CEO  
and CFO that the declaration was founded on a 
sound system of risk management and internal 
control and that the system was operating 
effectively in all material aspects in relation to  
the reporting of financial risks.

Indemnification and Insurance  
of Officers 

The Company’s Constitution provides that it may 
indemnify any person who is, or has been, an 
officer of the Group, including the Directors, the 
Secretaries and other Executive Officers, against 
liabilities incurred whilst acting as such officers  
to the extent permitted by law. The Company has 
entered into a Deed of Access, Indemnity and 
Insurance with each of the Company’s Directors. 
No Director or officer of the Company has received 
benefits under an indemnity from the Company 
during or since the end of the year.

The Company has paid a premium for insurance  
for officers of the Group. This insurance is against  
a liability for costs and expenses incurred by officers 
in defending civil or criminal proceedings involving 
them as such officers, with some exceptions.  
The contract of insurance prohibits disclosure of 
the nature of the liability insured against and the 
amount of the premium paid.

Proceedings Against the Company  

The Directors are not aware of any current or 
threatened civil litigation proceedings, arbitration 
proceedings, administration appeals, or criminal 
or governmental prosecutions of a material nature 
in which QR National is directly or indirectly 
concerned which are likely to have a material 
adverse effect on the business or financial position 
of the Company.

DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

23

Auditor’s Independence Declaration

As lead auditor for the audit of QR National Limited for the full year ended 30 June 2012, I declare that to the 
best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:

a) 

 no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the 
audit; and

b)  no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

This declaration is in respect of QR National Limited and the entities it controlled during the period.

Robert Hubbard  
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers

Brisbane 
23 August 2012

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757  
Riverside Centre, 123 Eagle Street, BRISBANE  QLD  4000, GPO Box 150, BRISBANE  QLD  4001 
T: +61 7 3257 5000, F: +61 7 3257 5999, www.pwc.com.au  

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

 
 
 
24

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report (continued) 
Remuneration Report  

The Directors of QR National Limited present the Remuneration Report prepared in accordance with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001 for the year ended 
30 June 2012. The information provided in this Remuneration Report has been audited as required by section 308(3C) of the Corporations Act 2001.

Table of Contents

1. 
2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 
6. 

Remuneration snapshot .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Remuneration framework  .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Key Management Personnel  ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Actual remuneration outcomes  ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Remuneration governance  ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 27
Remuneration components  ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
6.1  Executives  ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 28
6.2  Non-Executive Directors  ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 31
6.3  MD & CEO remuneration and Service Agreement  .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 32
6.4  Executive KMP Service Agreements  .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
6.5  Hedging and margin lending policies  ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
6.6  KMP share ownership policy  ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 33
6.7  Company performance and its link to remuneration ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 33

7. 

Key Management Personnel remuneration  ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 34
7.1  Rights granted as compensation  ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
7.2  Bonuses and share-based compensation benefits  ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 38

1. Remuneration snapshot

The QR National remuneration strategy seeks to encourage high performance over the short, medium and longer terms by using several distinct reward plans.  
One of the indicators of the performance of QR National is the share price appreciation since Initial Public Offer (IPO). The graph below shows the QRN share price 
and the ASX100 index value over the period from 22 November 2010 to 30 June 2012. The graph assumes that a shareholder starts with an initial investment of 
$100 in QR National and the ASX100 index, and shows the change in the value of that investment, based on changes in share price/index value over the period.  
For QR National, the graph assumes a starting price of $2.45 – the share price offered to retail investors on the date of listing.

Assumes QRN day 1 starting share 
price for retail investors of $2.45

$170

$160

$150

$140

$130

$120

$110

$100

$90

$80

$139

$89

22/11/2010

22/01/2011

22/03/2011

22/05/2011

22/07/2011

22/09/2011

22/11/2011

22/01/2012

22/03/2012

22/05/2012

22/07/2012

QR National

ASX 100 Index

DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

25

The following Table 1 summarises how each of the remuneration components works:

Table 1 – Remuneration components

Remuneration component

Summary

Fixed remuneration

Short-term Incentive Awards  
(“STIA”)

Deferred Short-term Incentive  
Awards (“STIAD”)

Fixed remuneration, which comprises base salary, superannuation benefits and other benefits, is determined 
with reference to the applicable market range assessed by collecting and collating market data for comparable 
roles in similarly sized companies operating in similar market sectors. An individual’s position within the 
range and the value of any annual increase in fixed remuneration is determined with reference to market 
movements and the individual’s experience, competence level, qualifications, etc.  Performance outcomes  
are rewarded through the various incentive programs (see below).

For the 2012 fixed remuneration review for all non-award employees, QR National has applied an overall 
increase of less than 4.3% across the enterprise. 

A STIA plan was introduced at the time of the Initial Public Offer (“IPO”) which provides the possibility 
of cash awards at the absolute discretion of the Board, having regard to QR National and individual key 
performance indicators (“KPIs”). The QR National KPIs specify minimum target and stretch performance 
expectations in relation to EBIT, Safety, and Transformation. The individual KPIs specify minimum target 
and stretch performance expectations which relate to that particular position.  For 2013 and subsequent 
years an additional QR National KPI will be required to be achieved – Return on Invested Capital (ROIC).  
The EBIT, Transformation, Safety and ROIC targets for 2013 have been set considerably higher than prior 
year actual results and prior year targets.

For each individual a target STIA percentage (of fixed remuneration) is specified in the employment 
agreement. All employees at the same level will have the same target STIA percentage. For the Key 
Management Personnel (KMP) and the MD & CEO the target STIA percentage during 2012 was 50% and 
75% of fixed remuneration respectively.  For 2013 and subsequent years this target will be set at 75% and 
100% of fixed remuneration respectively.

In the event that QR National and individual performance outcomes are all below the minimum 
expectation no STIA will be awarded.

In the event that QR National and individual performance outcomes are between minimum and target, the 
individual can expect an incentive payment somewhere between zero and the target STIA percentage.

In the event that QR National and individual target performance outcomes are achieved the individual can 
expect an incentive payment at the target STIA percentage.

In the event that QR National and individual stretch performance outcomes are achieved the individual can 
expect an incentive payment close to the maximum, which is 1½ times the target STIA percentage for all 
plan participants. The maximum STIA for KMP during 2012 was, therefore, 75% of fixed remuneration. The 
maximum for the MD & CEO was 100%.

Being a recently listed public company QR National did not have prior year Long-term Incentive Awards to 
assist with retention of executives. In order to mitigate this risk to some degree the Remuneration and 
Succession Committee (the “Committee”) recommended the implementation of a deferred STIA arrangement 
for the first two years after listing. Under this deferred component, two tranches of rights to QR National 
shares will be granted to executives in the event that they are awarded an STIA in 2011 and 2012. The 
number of performance rights an executive was awarded was 50% of the STIA outcome in 2011 and 2012 
divided by the share price at that time (Volume Weighted Average Price “VWAP” five days prior to the award). 
The award made in 2012 will be the final award under the plan. 

Sections

6.1.2

6.1.3

6.1.3.3

Long-term Incentive Awards  
(“LTIA”)

Participation in the QR National LTIA plan awards senior executives with rights to QR National shares  
which will only vest in the event that performance hurdles are achieved.

6.1.4

There were two performance hurdles for the IPO and 2011 awards – Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) 
relative to a peer group and Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) growth. In the initial years after IPO the EPS  
growth targets have been substituted with the Offer Document earnings targets. These arrangements  
were described on page 132 of the Offer Document.

For the award made at the time of the IPO the level of performance required for 100% vesting of the 
performance rights is the top quartile TSR performance amongst the peer group PLUS the aggregate earnings 
predicted in the Offer Document for 2011 and 2012 PLUS EPS growth of 10% between 2012 and 2013.

For the award made in September 2011 the level of performance below which no rights will vest is TSR 
performance below the median of the peer group AND either failure to achieve the aggregate earnings 
predicted in the Offer Document or failure to achieve EPS growth of at least 7.5% between 2012 and 2013.

For the 2012 and subsequent awards an additional hurdle has been introduced – operating ratio. At the 
time of the IPO the operating ratio was 94%. The Managing Director & CEO has publicly committed the 
Company to the achievement of 75% within five years of the IPO. The operating ratio performance hurdle 
under the LTIA requires that the Company meets that target in that time frame. As at the end of 2012, the 
Company’s operating ratio had reduced to 84%.

26

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report (continued) 
Remuneration Report  

2. Remuneration framework

The primary purpose of the QR National 
remuneration framework is the delivery of superior 
shareholder returns. The guiding principles 
which underpin the remuneration framework are 
shareholder alignment, performance improvement 
and market competitiveness:

•	

actively	encourage	performance	improvement	
at all levels – QR National-wide, within each 
team and for each individual.

In summary, the objective of QR National’s 

executive reward framework is to ensure reward  

for performance is both competitive and 

appropriate, particularly when considering 

•	 Alignment with shareholder interests – the 

remuneration outcomes in the light of the results 

delivered.  The framework aligns executive reward 

with achievement of strategic objectives and the 

creation of value for shareholders, and has been 

designed having considered market practices in 

terms of both quantum and structure.  

Name

Executive

Position

3. Key Management Personnel 

The Key Management Personnel (“KMP”) of the 
Group (which is a defined term under the Australian 
Accounting Standards and includes Directors) 
comprise all of the Directors of QR National Limited 
and those executives who have the authority and 
responsibility for planning, directing and controlling 
the activities of QR National. The executives that 
form part of KMP (“KMP Executives”) have been 
determined to be those members of the Executive 
Leadership Team that report directly to the 
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer  
(“MD & CEO”). The KMP of QR National for the 
whole of the financial year ended 30 June 2012 
(unless otherwise indicated) were: 

•	

determination of incentive outcomes depends 
on the achievement of performance hurdles 
which, if achieved, will add shareholder value.

Performance improvement – QR National’s 
remuneration, performance improvement  
and performance management programs  
are closely integrated to ensure that  
QR National, and individual performance 
continually improve. In this way, superior 
performance is rewarded and differentiated 
from performance which is only adequate or 
inferior. The performance indictors are derived 
from the business strategy and targets. In 
addition, all participants in the incentive 
plans are rewarded only in the event that 
the QR National values and behaviours are 
consistently demonstrated.

•	 Market competitiveness – the quantum and 
structure of remuneration is determined with 
reference to competitive market practices 
evident at similarly sized companies in similar 
industry sectors. In order to secure talent in 
the industry sectors with whom we compete, 
we have found that we sometimes need to 
offer remuneration above median.

QR National’s remuneration strategy is to:

•	

•	

•	

•	

support	and	reinforce	the	entire	suite	of	
performance improvement apparatus at  
the disposal of management

support,	reinforce	and	enhance	the	
achievement of QR National’s operational, 
tactical and strategic objectives

assist,	as	part	of	the	wider	employee	value	
proposition, with the attraction and retention 
of key employees, particularly in circumstances 
where there is a scarcity of talent and/or 
required skills in the marketplace

assist	management	in	their	efforts	to	
communicate complex strategies, tactics and 
performance objectives to employees

Lance Hockridge

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Deborah O’Toole

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Lindsay Cooper

Executive Vice President Operations (Acting)

Ken Lewsey 

Michael Carter

Greg Pringle

John Stephens

Greg Robinson

Executive Vice President Strategy and Business Development

Executive Vice President Network

Executive Vice President Enterprise Services

Executive Vice President Human Resources

Executive Vice President Business Sustainability  
(appointed 1 December 2011)

Paul Scurrah 

Executive Vice President Marketing (appointed 1 January 2012)

Marcus McAuliffe

Executive Vice President and CEO Coal (ceased employment 30 June 2012)

Curtis Davies

Executive Vice President and CEO Coal Customers (ceased employment  
25 May 2012)

Apart from Paul Scurrah and Greg Robinson, who were appointed during the year, each of these 
individuals were also a KMP for the whole of the previous financial year (except for Curtis Davies, who 
was appointed on 16 August 2010). 

Non-Executive Directors

John B Prescott AC

Independent Non-Executive Chairman

John Atkin 

Russell Caplan

Allan Davies

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director (resigned on 13 December 2011)

Graeme John AO

Independent Non-Executive Director

Peter Kenny (deceased)

Independent Non-Executive Director (passed away on 8 October 2011)

Andrea Staines

Gene Tilbrook 

John Cooper

Karen Field

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director (appointed 19 April 2012)

Independent Non-Executive Director (appointed 19 April 2012)

4. Actual remuneration outcomes

The cash remuneration actually received by the MD & CEO and the other senior executives in respect of the year ended 30 June 2012 is shown  
in table 2 below. The remuneration details, prepared in accordance with the accounting standards, are included in table 11. 

DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

27

Table 2 – Remuneration outcomes 

Fixed pay (including 
superannuation)

Name

L E Hockridge 

D M O'Toole 

K R Lewsey 

M G Carter 

G P Pringle 

R J Stephens 

L J Cooper

G Robinson 1

P Scurrah 1

M P McAuliffe 2

C M Davies 2

$’000

 1,701 

 771 

 683 

 631 

 578 

 578 

 560 

 626 

 398 

 701 

 705 

Short-term 
Incentive

$’000

 1,539 

 450 

 400 

 375 

 345 

 345 

 340 

 340 

 400 

 -   

 -   

Total Executive remuneration

 7,932 

 4,534 

1 Mr Robinson was appointed on 1 December 2011 and Mr Scurrah was appointed on 1 January 2012.
2 Mr Davies ceased employment on 25 May 2012 and Mr McAuliffe ceased employment on 30 June 2012.

Termination 
Benefits

$’000

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 556 

 615 

 1,171 

Total

$’000

 3,240 

 1,221 

 1,083 

 1,006 

 923 

 923 

 900 

 966 

 798 

 1,257 

 1,320 

 13,637 

5. Remuneration governance

The Board takes an active role in the governance and oversight of QR National’s remuneration policies and practices. The Remuneration and Succession Committee 
(details of which are set out on pages 21 and 41 of the Annual Report) (“the Committee”) assists the Board in relation to QR National’s remuneration framework. 
Specifically, the Committee seeks to ensure that QR National strikes a balance between the ability to compete for scarce talent in an increasingly competitive 
market and the need to ensure that remuneration arrangements are reasonable, appropriate, clear and understandable. In addition, the Committee undertakes 
functions delegated to it by the Board including consideration and approval of the annual remuneration program and all aspects of the long and short-term 
incentive plans. The Committee’s Terms of Reference is available on the website (www.qrnational.com.au).

The Committee is independent of management and obtains advice from independent experts as necessary. The use of external specialists in relation to the 
remuneration of the KMP is initiated directly by the Committee and/or the Board and these specialists are directly engaged by the Committee Chairman where 
advice and recommendations about the KMP is provided. The Committee is satisfied that advice received was free from any undue influence by KMP to whom 
advice may relate, because strict protocols were observed and complied with regarding any interaction between each organisation and management, and because 
all remuneration advice was provided to the Committee Chairman.

During the year ended 30 June 2012 the Committee received advice from the following independent organisations:

Table 3 – External remuneration advice

Organisation 

Egan Associates

KPMG

Purpose

Remuneration benchmarking and remuneration plan structure and operation to assist with the 
determination of fixed pay for KMP, the remuneration components, the quantum of each, and  
the mix between these components and was paid $74,400 for these services.

Remuneration benchmarking and remuneration plan structure and operation to assist with the 
determination of fixed pay for KMP, the remuneration components, the quantum of each, and  
the mix between these components and was paid $68,200 for these services.

Tower Watson

Relative TSR calculations and peer group definition and was paid $21,600 for these services.

Deloitte

LTIA and STIAD valuation and was paid $22,850 for these services.

Ernst & Young

Ad-hoc benchmarking and KMP remuneration advice and was paid $42,500 for these services.

PwC

Advice on taxation and benchmarking information. 

Role

KMP advice and 
recommendations

KMP advice and 
recommendations

Calculations and plan 
operations

Calculations and plan 
operations

KMP advice and 
recommendations

Tax advice and implications  
and general review

Further discussion of the Committee’s involvement in determining the amount and nature of remuneration is included in the respective remuneration sections. 

Voting and comments made at the company’s 2011 Annual General Meeting 
QR National received more than 96% of “For” votes on its remuneration report for the 2011 financial year.  Feedback received during the year from shareholders 
and shareholders’ representatives has been positive.

28

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report (continued) 
Remuneration Report  

6. Remuneration components
The remuneration framework provides a mix  
of fixed and variable pay, and a blend of short  
and long-term incentives.  

6.1 Executives
During 2012, the executive remuneration and 
reward framework had four components:

•	

•	

fixed	remuneration

STIA

•	

•	

STIAD

LTIA.

The combination of these components comprises 

an executive’s total remuneration. As of the end  

of 2012 no further awards will be made under  

the STIAD and the plan has terminated.

6.1.1 Mix of remuneration components

The mix of remuneration components for the 
MD & CEO and the KMP Executives (assuming 
achievement of the ‘at target’ outcomes for  
STIA and STIAD and assuming the LTIA vested  
at a value equal to the original award) are set  
out in the following diagram.

Mix of Remuneration Components (at Target STIA)

MD & CEO (FY12)

MD & CEO (FY13)

KMP (FY12)

KMP (FY13)

30.8%

33.3%

44.4%

40.0%

23.1%

15.4%

30.8%

33.3%

33.3%

22.2%

11.1%

22.2%

30.0%

30.0%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Fixed pay 

  STIA 

STIAD 

LTIA 

Table 4 summarises the nature of each remuneration component, the manner in which each piece is determined, and the link that each piece has to performance. 

Table 4 – Remuneration Components

Description

Determination

Link to performance

Remuneration 
component 

Fixed 
remuneration 

Comprises base salary, superannuation 
benefits and  
other benefits.

STIA

STIAD

LTIA

Annual ‘bonus’ component. Paid in cash 
subject to meeting and/or exceeding 
performance targets set in relation  
to KPIs.

Medium-term share-based component 
intended to mitigate the attraction 
and retention risk associated with the 
unavailability of prior year LTI.

Long-term share-based component, with 
vesting of shares assessed three years 
after an award of performance rights.

Fixed remuneration is determined with reference to a market 
range for the particular role based on comparable roles in 
similarly sized companies operating in similar market sectors. 
An individual’s position within the range and the value of any 
annual increase in fixed remuneration will be determined with 
reference to market movements and to a number of other 
factors including the individual’s experience, competence level 
and qualifications.

Performance is assessed with reference to pre-determined 
targets set in relation to specified KPIs for QR National and  
for the individual. 

50% of the actual annual STIA bonus for 2011 and 2012.

Only those senior employees whose daily activities and decisions 
impact the long-term outcomes of QR National are eligible 
to participate. Generally, this group includes the MD & CEO, 
the KMP Executives and their direct reports (less than 1% of 
the full-time workforce). The number of performance rights 
awarded and, hence, the maximum number of shares that 
might eventually vest, is determined by a percentage of fixed 
remuneration divided by the share price (VWAP) at the time of 
the award. The percentage of fixed pay is, in turn, assessed with 
reference to market practices and is the same for all participants 
at the same level (for 2013 and subsequent years, 75% for KMP 
and 100% for the MD & CEO).

Performance will be considered at 
the time of the annual remuneration 
review, when annual increases in fixed 
pay are determined.

Directly linked to performance, STIA 
awards are completely ‘at risk’.

The number of rights is directly related 
to performance by virtue of the value 
being 50% of the STIA awarded.

Vesting depends on QR National’s 
TSR performance relative to a peer 
group and EPS growth. In the initial 
years after IPO, the EPS growth targets 
have been substituted with the Offer 
Document earnings targets. These 
arrangements are described on page 
132 of the Offer Document. 

The award offered in September 2012 
and all future awards will also include a 
performance hurdle requiring a reduction 
in QR National operating ratio.

 
 
DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

29

6.1.2 Fixed remuneration / Base salary and benefits
Executives are offered a competitive base salary 
that comprises the fixed component of pay and 
rewards.  The Committee reviews the remuneration 
and other terms of employment of executives, 
having regard to performance against goals set 
at the start of the year, relevant comparative 
information and independent expert advice. 
In setting remuneration, regard is given to 
performance, market conditions and QR National’s 
desired market positioning. Advice is taken from 
independent external professional advisers to 
determine the remuneration range evident in the 
marketplace and the individual is paid within that 
range. A fully competent individual can expect 
to be paid close to the middle of the market 
range, while an individual growing into a role 
can expect to be paid towards the bottom of the 
market range until they are able to demonstrate 
full competency. An individual who consistently 
exceeds the requirements of the role by virtue of 
their experience, qualifications, performance and 
marketability may well be paid towards the top  
of the market range.

Fixed remuneration for executives is reviewed 
annually through a process which considers market-
based increases generally, market movements in 
specific industry sectors and professional disciplines, 
and perhaps market movements in relation to 
specific roles. There are no guaranteed fixed 
remuneration increases included in any executive’s 
contracts, although there is a contractual 
commitment to review fixed remuneration on an 
annual basis. The fixed remuneration amount is 
used as the basis for calculating variable pay, if any.

6.1.3 Short-term incentive
QR National operates an annual STIA plan 
which applies equally (other than the target 
award amount) to all non-enterprise agreement 
employees and is the same plan used to reward 
KMP Executives. The STIA awards a cash bonus 
subject to the achievement of pre-defined QR 
National-wide and individual targets set by the 
Committee in relation to certain KPIs.

6.1.3.1 STIA operation
Notwithstanding anything that follows, the Board 
has absolute discretion as to whether a STIA is 
awarded and, if so, to what extent. This absolute 
discretion is cited in the contract of employment  
of each KMP Executive. For each individual, a 
target STIA percentage (of fixed remuneration) 
is specified in the employment agreement. All 
employees at the same level will have the same 
target STIA percentage. For the KMP Executives  
for 2012, the target STIA percentage is 50% of 
fixed remuneration and the maximum is 75%.  
For the MD & CEO the target percentage is 75% 
of fixed remuneration and the maximum is 100%. 

The Committee commissioned two separate 
independent studies during 2012. Both studies 
confirmed that these target percentages were below 
market and exposed the company to potential 
retention risk. For 2013 and beyond, these target 
percentages have been adjusted accordingly.

In the event that QR National and individual 
performance outcomes are all below the minimum 
expectation, no STIA will be awarded.

In the event that QR National and individual 
performance outcomes are between minimum 
and target, the individual can expect an incentive 
payment somewhere between zero and the target 
STIA percentage

In the event that QR National and individual target 
performance outcomes are achieved the individual 
can expect an incentive payment at the target 
STIA percentage.

In the event that QR National and individual 
stretch performance outcomes are achieved the 
individual can expect an incentive payment close 
to the maximum STIA percentage. 

6.1.3.2 STIA performance targets and 
measurement
The Board can vary the KPIs, the targets set in 
relation to them and their relative importance from 
year to year depending on the strategic imperative 
and the desired performance message. For 2013, 
the primary KPIs common to all participants 
are EBIT, Safety, Transformation and Return 
on Invested Capital (ROIC) and their relative 
importance was assessed by the Board for each 
KMP Executive. These four primary indicators of 
performance were chosen because they captured 
the need to continuously improve safety across all 
aspects of the business, the need to quickly change 
from a statutory government owned organisation 
to a world-class, profitable listed company and, at 
the same time, deliver benefits to shareholders.

The performance expectations for these KPIs for 
2012 are set out below.

EBIT
Minimum, target and stretch achievement levels 
are set for QR National. The minimum performance 
level below which no EBIT component STIA 
would be payable is a ‘Threshold’ EBIT outcome.  
‘Threshold’ is set above previous year actual but 
below budget EBIT.  As an example, the 2013 
Threshold EBIT level is 14% above the 2012 
outcome disclosed in this Annual Report. The 
target is approximately equivalent to the EBIT 
level that QR National considered to have a 75% 
chance of achievement under favourable market 
and environmental conditions. The stretch EBIT 
level is much higher than the target level and the 
likelihood of attainment, although assessed by the 
Board as being achievable, would be considered 
remote even under favourable conditions.  

Safety
The minimum safety performance level below 
which no safety component STIA would be payable 
is a consistent reduction in LTIFRs, MTIs (Medically 
Treated Injuries) and a consistent frequency of 
safety interactions. That is, it is not sufficient 
to maintain the number of LTIFRs and MTIs; it 
is a minimum requirement that the number of 
hours lost to injury and the number of injuries be 
reduced. The target level of achievement is a more 
significant reduction in LTIFRs and MTIs and an 
even higher frequency of safety interactions. The 
stretch performance level is the achievement of 
what would be considered a world-class reduction 
in LTIFRs and MTIs and an optimal frequency of 
safety interactions.

Transformation
The Board recognised the strategic imperative 
that QR National be transformed very quickly 
after the IPO from the characteristics typical of 
a long-standing public sector organisation to an 
efficient, profitable, listed market leader. To do 
this, a number of specific change programs were 
identified and allocated to specific KMP Executives. 
Minimum, target and stretch levels of achievement 
were identified in relation to each transformation 
project and in relation to transformation overall. 
Performance was defined in terms of project and 
program completion (or milestone achievement), 
benefits delivery (or progression towards delivery 
for lengthy transformational projects) and 
sustainable capability improvement. The Board 
then assessed the level of achievement in relation 
to each transformation project, having regard to 
pre-determined levels of expected achievement.

ROIC (To form part of KPIs in 2013 and  
subsequent years):
To meet the long term strategy, QR National 
needs to invest heavily in infrastructure, process 
improvement, systems and capacity. The ROIC 
performance measure is intended to ensure that 
there is alignment between these investment 
decisions and shareholder expectations that the 
return on these investments is superior.

6.1.3.3 STIAD – Deferred Short-term Incentive Award 
As a recently listed public company, QR National 
did not have prior year LTIA awards to assist with 
retention of executives. In order to mitigate this risk 
to some degree, the Board implemented  
a deferred STIA arrangement for the first two years 
after listing. Under this deferred component of STIA, 
two tranches of rights were granted to executives 
in the event they were awarded an STIA in 2011 
and 2012. The number of performance rights an 
executive was awarded was dependent on the  
STIA outcome in 2011 and 2012. By that time,  
the LTIA plan (see below) will have begun to vest  
(or not, as the case may be) and no further awards 
will be made under the STIAD. 

30

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report (continued) 
Remuneration Report  

6.1.3.3 STIAD – Deferred Short-term Incentive Award 
(continued)
Executives will be granted an award of performance 
rights equivalent to 50% of the STIA they receive in 
the relevant year of award as follows: 

•	

•	

Tranche	1	was	awarded	in	September	2011	
with one half of these performance rights 
vesting and becoming fully-paid shares in 
September 2012 and the other half vesting  
in September 2013

Tranche	2	will	be	awarded	in	September	2012	
with one half of these vesting in September 2013 
and the other half vesting in September 2014. 

Both tranches will only vest and become 
exercisable if the executive remains employed  
by QR National as at the vesting date. If the 
executive ceases employment with QR National 
prior to the vesting of the rights the rights will 
lapse unless otherwise determined by the Board. 

Performance rights are granted by the Company 
for nil consideration. Each performance right is 
a right to receive one fully-paid ordinary share 
in QR National Limited at no cost if the vesting 
conditions are satisfied. Performance rights do not 
carry voting or dividend rights, however shares 
allocated upon vesting of rights will carry the 
same rights as other ordinary shares. For further 
information regarding the terms and conditions of 
rights, refer to note 37 of the Financial Report. 

The deferred component of STIA to which the MD 
& CEO was entitled (and described in the offer 
document and in last year’s Annual Report) has 
vested. This plan has now terminated. 

6.1.4 Long-term incentive
Performance rights have been granted to certain 
employees, including KMP Executives and the MD 
& CEO, under the LTIA. Each performance right 
is a right to receive one fully paid ordinary share 
in QR National Limited at no cost if the vesting 
conditions are satisfied. The LTIA is designed to 
provide long-term incentives for executives to 
deliver long-term shareholder returns. Under the 
plan, performance rights will only vest on the 
satisfaction of the relevant performance hurdle 
that is measured by reference to the three years 
following the award (performance period) or a 
re-testing, which will occur one year thereafter. 
Participation in the plan is at the Board’s discretion 
and no individual has a contractual right to be 
awarded performance rights or to receive any 
guaranteed benefits.

6.1.4.1 LTIA eligibility
Eligibility to participate in the LTIA is at the 
absolute discretion of the Board. In exercising  
that discretion, the Board will seek to identify  
those executive and management employees  
who occupy roles of which the daily activities, 
decisions and responsibilities are likely to impact 
the long-term prosperity of QR National. During 
the first round of awards, at the time of the IPO, 
this group included the MD & CEO, KMP Executives, 
the direct reports to KMP Executives and a 
small number of other management employees 
nominated by the MD & CEO and approved by  
the Board. It is intended that performance rights 
will be awarded each year, although this, too,  
is at the absolute discretion of the Board. The 
awarding of performance rights to an individual 
in one year does not necessarily create an 
entitlement to an award in any subsequent year.

6.1.4.2 Number of performance rights
The number of performance rights awarded at 
the time of the IPO and, hence, the maximum 
number of shares that might eventually vest, was 
determined by a percentage of fixed remuneration 
divided by the institutional share price on the day 
of listing ($2.55). 

The number of performance rights awarded in 
September 2011, the maximum number of shares 
that might eventually vest, was determined by a 
percentage of fixed remuneration divided by a five 
day volume weighted average price (15 – 19 Aug 
2011, $3.44).

The percentage of fixed pay was, in turn, assessed 
with reference to market practices and was the 
same for all participants at the same level (50% 
of fixed pay for KMP). The resulting number of 
performance rights is the maximum number 
of shares that can vest in the event that all of 
the performance hurdles are met or exceeded. 
For the MD & CEO, the number of performance 
rights awarded was calculated on the same basis, 
except that the percentage of fixed remuneration 
was 100%. The Committee commissioned two 
separate independent studies during 2012.  
Both studies confirmed that these percentages 
were below market and exposed the company 
to potential retention risk. For 2013 and beyond, 
these target percentages have been adjusted 
accordingly (75% for KMP. The percentage remains 
unchanged for the MD & CEO).

6.1.4.3 Performance period
The performance hurdles (below) will be measured 
over a three year period. In the event that the 
performance hurdle is not achieved, the Board has 
the discretion to extend the performance period for 
a further year.

6.1.4.4 Performance hurdles
The rights granted are subject to two performance 
hurdles – the Earnings hurdle, which determines 
whether and to what extent half of the award 
will vest, and the relative TSR hurdle, which will 
determine whether and to what extent the other 
half will vest. The rights granted in 2012 will be 
subject to a third performance hurdle – operating 
ratio. At the time of the IPO the operating ratio 
was 94%. The MD & CEO has publicly committed 
the company to the achievement of 75% 
within five years of the IPO. The operating ratio 
performance hurdle under the LTIA requires that 
the company meets that target in that time frame. 
As at the end of 2012, the operating ratio had 
reduced to 84%.

The Earnings hurdle
Prior to the floods and cyclone in the previous 
financial year, half of the performance rights would 
have vested in full if the aggregate EBIT forecasts 
in the IPO Offer Document for the periods 2011 
and 2012 were achieved and EPS growth between 
2012 and 2013 is at least 10%. No vesting of 
this half of the award would have occurred if this 
initial target was not achieved. Having achieved 
the aggregate earnings in 2011 and 2012, an EPS 
growth of at least 7.5% on the actual 2012 results 
for 2013 is required, otherwise no vesting of this 
half will occur. If the aggregate EBIT forecasts for 
2011 and 2012 have been achieved, and in 2013, 
the EPS growth is:

•	

•	

•	

10%	or	above,	100%	of	this	component	 
will vest

from	7.5%	to	10%,	50%	to	100%	of	this	half	
will vest, calculated on a pro rata basis

below	7.5%,	no	vesting	of	this	component	will	
occur in 2013.

Following the floods, the aggregate earnings test 
described above was adjusted to reflect the net 
impact of the floods and cyclone, as approved by 
shareholders at the 2011 Annual General Meeting. 

DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

31

These adjusted arrangements are outlined in the 
following table:

business days after the Grant Date and 20 business 
days before the end of the performance period.

Table 5 – Earnings hurdle (2011 Grant)

If QR National’s TSR is:

Percentage of 
Earnings hurdle 
rights to vest

0%

0%

50 - 100%

100%

Earnings hurdle outcome

No achievement of the adjusted 
Aggregate 2011 and 2012 EBIT 
forecasts

Achievement of the adjusted 
Aggregate 2011 and 2012 EBIT 
forecasts PLUS less than 7.5% 
EPS growth in 2013

Achievement of the adjusted 
aggregate 2011 and 2012 EBIT 
forecasts PLUS between 7.5% 
and 10% EPS growth in 2013

Achievement of the adjusted 
aggregate 2011 and 2012 EBIT 
forecasts PLUS more than 10% 
EPS growth in 2013

For 2012 and subsequent awards, 0% of this part 
of the award will vest if the average EPS growth 
is less than 7.5%, 50% - 100% will vest if the 
average EPS growth is between 7.5% and 10%, 
while 100% will vest if the average EPS growth is 
10% or more.

Relative TSR hurdle
The vesting of the remaining half of the 
performance rights is conditional on QR National’s 
TSR performance relative to a peer group of 
companies. After taking independent advice the 
Board sought to construct a peer group comprising 
those companies with whom QR National was likely 
to compete for both capital and talent, as well 
as those few companies with whom QR National 
competes for business and customers. As a result, 
the peer group comprises the companies in the 
ASX Top 100 index, other than financial, medical, 
telecommunications, pharmaceutical, gaming and 
property trusts.  

TSR measures the growth in the price of shares 
plus cash distributions notionally reinvested in 
shares. To determine whether and to what extent 
the TSR tested performance rights will vest, the TSR 
of QR National over the performance period will 
be compared to the TSR of all of the companies in 
the peer group which are still listed at the end of 
the performance period. Each of these comparator 
companies will be ranked from highest to lowest, 
based on their TSR over the performance period, 
and the number of rights that vest will depend 
on where QR National is ranked amongst these 
comparator companies. For the purpose of 
calculating the TSR measurement, the relevant 
share prices will be determined by reference to the 
volume weighted average share price over the 20 

•	

•	

•	

•	

between	the	75th	and	100th	percentile	of	 
the peer group, 100% of the Tranche 1 Rights 
will vest

between	the	51st	and	74th	percentile,	52%	
to 98% of the Tranche 1 Rights will vest (that 
is, for every 1 percentile additional ranking, 
the proportion of Tranche 1 Rights vesting will 
increase by 2%)

at	the	50th	percentile,	50%	of	the	Tranche	1	
Rights will vest

below	the	50th	percentile,	no	vesting	of	the	
Tranche 1 Rights will occur.

This is outlined in the following table:

Table 6 – TSR hurdle

Group’s TSR performance 
compared to the relevant 
peer group

Percentage of TSR 
half of awarded 
rights that will vest

0 to 49th percentile

Nil

50th percentile

51st to 74th percentile

75th to 100th percentile

50% of the Tranche 1 
rights will vest

52% - 98% of the 
Tranche 1 rights will 
vest (on a straight line 
basis)

100% of the Tranche 
1 rights will vest

TSR performance is monitored by an independent 
expert at the end of each financial year. 

Operating Ratio hurdle
For future awards (2013 and beyond), there will 
be a third hurdle, requiring that a three year 
operating ratio target be achieved in the third year. 
The specific hurdle for the 2012 award is that the 
operating ratio be reduced from its current level 
(84%) to the target level of 75%. 0% of this third 
tranche of the LTIA will vest if the operating ratio in 
2015 is more than 79.5%. Between 50% and 100% 
will vest if the operating ratio in 2015 is between 
79.5% and 75%, while 100% of this third tranche 
will vest if the operating ratio in 2015 is 75% or less.

Performance rights do not carry voting or dividend 
rights, however shares allocated upon vesting of 
rights will carry the same rights as other ordinary 
shares. For further information regarding the terms 
and conditions of rights in the LTIA, refer to note 37 
of the Financial Report. The table in this note provides 
details of the rights awarded during the year.

6.1.5 Total remuneration
When all components of remuneration are 
taken together and the share-based awards 
are independently valued, the sum total is 
considered to be well within market parameters. 

The Committee has received independent, 
external advice that the market relativity of total 
remuneration for KMP Executives, including the  
MD & CEO, is close to market median.

6.2 Non-Executive Directors
On appointment to the Board, all Non-Executive 
Directors enter into a Service Agreement with the 
Company, incorporated in a letter of appointment.  
The letter summarises the Board policies and 
terms, including compensation relevant to the 
office of Director.  

Under QR National’s Constitution, Non-Executive 
Directors are to be paid by way of fees for their 
services with an initial maximum aggregate cap 
of $2.5 million. The Directors Fee is a composite 
fee and covers all responsibilities of the respective 
member including Board and Committee duties. 
The Fee is also a total fee in that it covers both 
cash and any contributions to a fund for the 
purposes of superannuation benefits. Apart from 
superannuation, there are no other retirement 
benefits in place for Non-Executive Directors. The 
cap does not include remuneration for performing 
additional or special duties for the Company at the 
request of the Board. The Constitution also states 
that the Company will pay all reasonable travelling, 
accommodation and other expenses of directors in 
attending meetings and carrying out their duties.  

Within the overall pool amount, remuneration 
for Non-Executive Directors is reviewed by the 
Committee, taking into account recommendations 
from an external expert, and set by the Board. 
Fees for Non-Executive Directors are set at a level 
to attract and retain Directors with the necessary 
skills and experience to allow the Board to have a 
proper understanding of, and competence to deal 
with, current and emerging issues for QR National. 
Fees and payments to Non-Executive Directors 
reflect the demands which are made on, and the 
responsibilities of, the Directors.  Non-Executive 
Directors’ fees and payments are reviewed 
annually by the Board.  The Chairman’s fees are 
determined independently to the fees of Non-
Executive Directors, based on comparative roles in 
the external market. The Chairman is not present 
at any discussions relating to the determination of 
his own remuneration. Non-Executive Directors do 
not receive performance-based pay.  

6.2.1 Directors’ fees
The current annual base fees were last reviewed 
with effect from 1 July 2012, from $180,000 to 
$190,000 (inclusive of all responsibilities and 
superannuation) for other Non-Executive Directors 
and from $400,000 to $475,000 (inclusive of  
all responsibilities and superannuation) for  
the Chairman.

 
32

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report (continued) 
Remuneration Report  

6.3 MD & CEO remuneration and Service Agreement
The terms of Mr Hockridge’s appointment were disclosed in the IPO Offer Document. The Board sought expert external advice from Egan Associates to ensure  
the remuneration arrangements offered to Mr Hockridge were both reasonable and sufficiently competitive to secure the services of an MD & CEO of a Top  
50 Australian publicly listed company. A significant proportion of the total remuneration is subject to the achievement of QR National performance outcomes,  
in particular those relating to earnings, safety, transforming the business, and total shareholder returns.

The MD & CEO’s total remuneration (assuming the achievement of performance hurdles over the next several years) is split between fixed and variable 
components as follows: 

Table 7 – MD & CEO Remuneration Components (2012) 

MD & CEO - Percentage of Total Remuneration

Fixed Remuneration

STIA

STIAD

LTIA

Total Received  
in 2012  
(at Maximum)

$

% of Total

$

% of Total

$

% of Total

$

% of Total

$

$1,700,000

33.3%

$1,700,000

33.3%

$3,400,000

$1,700,000

28.6%

$1,700,000

28.6%

$3,400,000

$850,000

16.7%

$850,000

16.7%

$850,000

14.3%

$1,700,000

28.6%

Received in 2012 
 (at Maximum STIA)

Payable in later years subject 
to performance hurdles  
(at Target LTIA)

Received in 2012  
(at Maximum STIA)

Payable in later years subject 
to performance hurdles  
(at Maximum LTIA)

*  Target LTI vesting refers to the satisfaction of threshold performance hurdles which generates vesting of 50% of the performance rights awarded. Performance below this level would  

result in no rights vesting.

The fixed remuneration for the MD & CEO for 2013 has been set at $1,950,000.

Remuneration and other terms of employment for the MD & CEO, as with the other KMP Executives, is formalised in a Service Agreement.

Table 8 – Summary of MD & CEO’s Service Agreement

Term

Duration

Service Agreement Summary

Ongoing, until notice given by either party.

Termination by the MD & CEO

6 months notice.

Termination by the Company

12 months notice. Termination payment of 12 months fixed pay. Treatment of unvested prior year STIA,  
STAID and LTIA Awards will be in accordance with the plan rules and Board-approved policies.

Post-employment restraints

12 months in any competitor business in Australia.

The MD & CEO is employed pursuant to an employment contract until terminated by either the MD & CEO or by QR National. He may terminate his employment 
contract by giving six months notice, and QR National may terminate his employment by giving 12 months notice. If his employment is terminated (other than 
for cause), he will be entitled to payment of his total fixed annual remuneration, calculated to the termination date, plus any leave entitlements, as well as any 
entitlements already owing or vested under the STIA, STIAD and LTIA. Whether payments are made in recognition of unvested awards under these plans will be 
assessed by the Board, having regard to the Board approved plan rules and plan policies. All payments and awards are subject to applicable laws. 

The MD & CEO has agreed, and the contract provides that, in the event of termination, he will not accept employment or otherwise be engaged in a competitor 
business in Australia for 12 months. 

6.4 Executive KMP Service Agreements
The standard terms of the employment contracts for KMP Executives are shown in Table 9:

DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

33

Table 9 – Summary of KMP Executives’ Service Agreement (2012)

KMP Executives

CFO

Term

Duration

Service Agreement Summary

Ongoing, until notice given by either party.

Termination by the CFO

3 months notice.

Termination by the Company

Before 31 December 2011, by giving 12 months notice; and at any time after 1 January 2012, 
by giving nine months notice.

Post-employment restraints

Restricted from competitive business in Australia for a period aligned to the notice period.

Base salary including 
superannuation

$770,000

All other KMP Executives

Duration

Ongoing, until notice given by either party.

Termination by the executive

3 months notice.

Termination by the Company

Before 31 December 2011, by giving 12 months notice; from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2012, 
by giving nine months notice; and at any time after 1 January 2013, by giving six months notice.

Post-employment restraints

Restricted from competitive business in Australia for a period aligned to the notice period.

K R Lewsey

M G Carter

G P Pringle

R J Stephens

L J Cooper

G Robinson

P Scurrah

Base salary including super

Base salary including super

Base salary including super

Base salary including super

Base salary including super

Base salary including super

Base salary including super

$682,500

$630,000

$577,500

$577,500

$577,500

$577,500

$800,000

6.5 Hedging and margin lending policies 
Upon listing on the ASX, QR National introduced a policy that prohibits executives granted share-based payments as part of their remuneration from hedging 

economic exposure to unvested rights that have been issued pursuant to a Group employee share plan. The policy also prohibits margin loan arrangements for  
the purpose of purchasing QR National shares. Adherence to this policy is monitored regularly and involves each KMP signing an annual declaration of 
compliance with the policy. 

6.6 KMP share ownership policy 
During the past financial year, the Board approved a policy whereby within six years of the date of listing of the Company or appointment (whichever is the later), 

Non-Executive Directors are required to accumulate and maintain one year’s Directors’ fees worth of shares in the Company; the MD & CEO one year’s fixed 
remuneration in shares; and the MD & CEO’s direct reports equivalent to 50% of their fixed remuneration in shares.

6.7 Company performance and its link to remuneration
In considering QR National’s performance, the Committee has regard to the following performance measures in respect of the current financial period. As the 
Company was only listed on 22 November 2010, these performance measures are not available for prior financial periods. The performance measures for the 
2011 financial year are based on results for the full financial year, where available, as QR National’s results were prepared as a continuation of the QR Limited 
consolidated group (refer to note 1 of the Financial Report).

Table 10 – Company performance

Closing share price/Change in share price 

3.40 (95¢ above ‘retail’ price)

3.38 (93¢ above ‘retail’ price)

30 June 2012

30 June 2011

Dividends per share 

TSR 

Underlying EBIT 

LTIFR

Safety interactions

Transformation project completion,  
benefit delivery and capability

7.4 cents

1.3%

$584m

n/a

20.2% (against 20-day VWAP after IPO)

$383m1

2.4 (down from 3.08)

3.08 (down from 6.14)

1.13 per employee per month

1.10 per employee per month

Majority completed on-time, in full

Majority completed on-time, in full

1 Restated underlying EBIT due to change in accounting policy

The performance measure which drives half of the LTIA vesting is the Company’s TSR performance relative to the companies in an identified peer group. 

Note, the share price appreciation graph on page 24 excludes the value that would have been received from dividend payments during the year, and is not 
equivalent to TSR. The TSR percentage shown in table 10 for 30 June 2011 compares the 20 day VWAP immediately after IPO with the 20-day VWAP up to  
30 June 2011. For this reason, the TSR, so calculated, is lower than that suggested by the graph on page 24 of this Annual Report.  

34

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report (continued) 
Remuneration Report  

7. Key Management Personnel remuneration

Details of the nature and amount of each major element of compensation of each KMP for the financial year ended 30 June 2012 and 30 June 2011 are set out below. 

Table 11 – 2012 Key Management Personnel remuneration

2012

Name

Short-term employee benefits

Cash 
salary  
and fees
$’000

Cash 
Bonus
$’000

Non-
monetary 
benefits1
$’000

Other
$’000

Post-
employment 
benefits

Super- 
annuation 
$’000

Long-term benefits

Long- 
service 
leave
$’000

Termination 
benefits
$’000

Equity-
settled 
share-
based 
payments

Proportion of 
compensation 
performance 
related5

Remuneration 
consisting of 
rights for the 
year

Rights2
$’000

Total
$’000

%

%

Non-Executive Directors
J B  Prescott AC 

 359 

 165 

 165 

 75 

 165 

 45 

 165 

 165 

 33 

 33 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 1,370 

 -   

 1,651 

1,539 

 755 

 658 

 526 

 553 

 539 

 472 

 575 

 391 

 685 

 690 

 450 

 400 

 375 

 345 

 345 

 340 

 340 

 400 

 -   

 -   

 6 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 6 

 25 

(37) 

(12) 

 4 

 31 

 31 

 48 

 49 

 94 

(59) 

(24) 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 42 

 15 

 15 

 7 

 15 

 3 

 15 

 15 

 3 

 3 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 407 

 180 

 180 

 82 

 180 

 48 

 180 

 180 

 36 

 36 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 133 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 1,509 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 50 

 16 

 25 

 105 

 25 

 39 

 88 

 51 

 7 

 16 

 15 

 31 

 16 

 14 

 60 

 9 

 10 

 97 

 6 

 35 

(17) 

(5) 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 556 

 615 

 1,270 

 4,566 

 293 

 261 

 237 

 223 

 223 

 205 

 129 

 251 

 105 

 1,493 

 1,346 

 1,307 

 1,186 

 1,187 

 1,250 

 1,150 

 1,178 

 1,286 

 41 

 1,332 

 62 

 50 

 49 

 47 

 48 

 48 

 44 

 41 

 55 

 8 

 3 

 28 

 20 

 19 

 18 

 19 

 19 

 16 

 11 

 21 

 8 

 3 

J Atkin 

R R Caplan

A J Davies

G T John AO

P C Kenny

A J P Staines

G T Tilbrook

K Field

J Cooper

Sub-total  
Non-Executive 
Directors

Executive 
L E Hockridge 

D M O'Toole 

K R Lewsey 

M G Carter 

G P Pringle 

R J Stephens 

L J Cooper

G Robinson 3

P Scurrah 3

M P McAuliffe 4

C M Davies 4
Total Key 
Management 
Personnel 
compensation 
(Group)

 8,865 

 4,534 

 156 

 -   

 570 

 256 

 1,171 

 3,238 

 18,790 

 41 

 17 

1  Non-monetary benefits represent the value of Reportable Fringe Benefits for the respective Fringe Benefits Tax year ending 31 March, the estimated value of car parking provided, and 

annual leave accrued or utilised during the financial year. 

2 The value of rights granted in the year is the fair value independently calculated at grant date using an expected outcome model, this was consistent with the Monte-Carlo simulation 

conducted in the prior year and resulted in similar outcomes. This amount is progressively expensed over the vesting period. The value disclosed includes the value of rights to be granted 
under the STIAD based on 50% of the 2012 cash STIA. Refer to note 37 for further details regarding the fair value of rights. These values may not represent the future value that the 
executive will receive, as the vesting of the rights is subject to the achievement of performance conditions.

3  Mr Robinson was appointed on 1 December 2011 and Mr Scurrah was appointed on 1 January 2012. 
4  Mr Davies ceased employment on 25 May 2012 and Mr McAuliffe ceased employment 30 June 2012. 
5  The short-term incentives (cash bonus) and deferred short-term incentives and long-term incentives (equity-settled share-based payments) represent the at risk performance- 

related remuneration. 

6  Mr Davies was appointed on 16 August 2010.
7  Retention bonuses paid in relation to the IPO are shown as ‘Other’.

DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

35

Table 12 – 2011 Key Management Personnel remuneration

2011

Short-term employee benefits

Post-
employment 
benefits

Name

Cash 
salary  
and fees

$’000

Cash 
bonus

$’000

Non- 
monetary 
benefits 1

$’000

Other 7

$’000

Super-
annuation 

$’000

Long-term benefits

Long- 
service 
leave

$’000

Termination 
benefits

$’000

Equity-
settled 
share-
based 
payments

Proportion of 
compensation 
performance 
related 5

Remuneration 
consisting of 
rights for the 
year

Rights 2

$’000

Total

$’000

%

%

Non-Executive Directors

J B  Prescott AC 

J Atkin 

R R Caplan

A J Davies

G T John AO

P C Kenny

A J P Staines

G T Tilbrook

Sub-total 
Non-Executive 
Directors

Executive 

 361 

 163 

 162 

 163 

 163 

 162 

 163 

 163 

 1,500 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 - 

L E Hockridge 

 1,341 

 1,664 

 581 

 669 

 510 

 470 

 444 

 477 

 392 

 501 

 462 

 407 

 362 

 353 

 350 

 350 

 310 

 348 

D M O'Toole 

K R Lewsey 

M P McAuliffe 

M G Carter 

G P Pringle 

R J Stephens 

L J Cooper

C M Davies 6

Total Key 
Management 
Personnel 
compensation 
(Group)

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 - 

 417 

 177 

 96 

 155 

 133 

 13 

 122 

 24 

 35 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 - 

 -   

 434 

 388 

 319 

 319 

 299 

 330 

 271 

 -   

 31 

 12 

 12 

 12 

 12 

 12 

 12 

 11 

 114 

 71 

 63 

 32 

 44 

 81 

 74 

 56 

 66 

 31 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 - 

 34 

 10 

 8 

 8 

 96 

 6 

 6 

 90 

 5 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 - 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 392 

 175 

 174 

 175 

 175 

 174 

 175 

 174 

 - 

 1,614 

 555 

 4,082 

 99 

 89 

 80 

 78 

 76 

 76 

 68 

 78 

 1,826 

 1,689 

 1,478 

 1,530 

 1,262 

 1,417 

 1,221 

 998 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 - 

 54 

 31 

 29 

 30 

 28 

 34 

 30 

 31 

 43 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 - 

 14 

 5 

 5 

 5 

 5 

 6 

 5 

 6 

 8 

 6,885 

 4,606 

 1,172 

 2,360 

 632 

 263 

 -   

 1,199 

 17,117 

 34 

 7 

36

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report (continued) 
Remuneration Report  

7.1 Rights granted as compensation
Details of rights granted as compensation, exercised and forfeited during the year in the Performance Rights Plan, including vesting profiles, are as follows: 

Table 13 – Rights granted as compensation

Name

Date 
granted 

Incentive 
Plan

Balance at 
beginning 
of year

Rights 
awarded 
during the 
year 

Exercised 
during the 
year 

Forfeited in 
year

Balance 
at end of 
year

Fair value 
per right 
at grant 
date

Exercise 
price

Vested 
in year

Forfeited 
in year

Value of 
rights 
granted in 
year 1

Value of 
rights 
forfeited 
in year

Date on 
which 

grant vests Expiry date

No.

No.

No.

No.

No.

$

$

%

%

$’000

$’000

L E Hockridge 22-Nov-10

STIAD 

 333,333 

 -   

(333,333) 

22-Nov-10

STIAD 

 333,333 

1-Dec-10 LTIAD - EPS  333,333 

1-Dec-10 LTIAD - TSR  333,333 

 -   

 -   

 -   

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

 -   

 247,093 

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

 -   

 247,093 

D M O'Toole

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - EPS

 68,627 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - TSR

 68,627 

 -   

 -   

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 55,959 

 55,959 

 33,612 

 33,612 

K R Lewsey

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - EPS

 63,725 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - TSR

 63,725 

 -   

 -   

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 49,600 

 49,600 

 29,615 

 29,615 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 2.07 

 333,333 

 2.07 

 333,333 

 1.14 

 333,333 

 0.94 

 247,093 

 2.93 

 247,093 

 1.28 

 68,627 

 1.14 

 68,627 

 0.94 

 55,959 

 2.93 

 55,959 

 1.28 

 33,612 

 3.44 

 33,612 

 3.44 

 63,725 

 1.14 

 63,725 

 0.94 

 49,600 

 2.93 

 49,600 

 1.28 

 29,615 

 3.44 

 29,615 

 3.44 

M P McAuliffe 22-Nov-10 LTIAD - EPS

 58,824 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - TSR

 58,824 

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

M G Carter

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - EPS

 58,824 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - TSR

 58,824 

 -   

 -   

(31,042) 

(27,782) 

(31,041) 

(27,783) 

 45,785 

(15,260) 

(30,525) 

 45,785 

(15,260) 

(30,525) 

(26,344) 

(26,344) 

 26,344 

 26,344 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 1.14 

 0.94 

 2.93 

 1.28 

 3.44 

 3.44 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 58,824 

 1.14 

 58,824 

 0.94 

 45,785 

 2.93 

 45,785 

 1.28 

 25,618 

 3.44 

 25,618 

 3.44 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 45,785 

 45,785 

 25,618 

 25,618 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 100.00 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 53.00 

 47.00 

 53.00 

 47.00 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 723 

 316 

 -   

 -   

 164 

 72 

 116 

 116 

 -   

 -   

 145 

 63 

 102 

 102 

 -   

 -   

 -   22-Nov-11 30-Sep-12

 -   22-Nov-12 30-Sep-13

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    30-Sep-13 31-Dec-14

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    28-Sep-12

1-Oct-14

 -    28-Sep-13

1-Oct-14

 -    30-Sep-13 31-Dec-14

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    28-Sep-12

1-Oct-14

 -    28-Sep-13

1-Oct-14

 32  30-Sep-13 31-Dec-14

 26 22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 33.00 

 67.00 

 134 

 89  30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 33.00 

 67.00 

 -   

 100.00 

 -   

 100.00 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 59 

 91 

 91 

 -   

 -   

 39  30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 91  28-Sep-12

1-Oct-14

 91  28-Sep-13

1-Oct-14

 -    30-Sep-13 31-Dec-14

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 134 

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 59 

 88 

 88 

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    28-Sep-12

1-Oct-14

 -    28-Sep-13

1-Oct-14

DIRECTORS’ REpORT  |  QR NATIONAL

37

Table 13 – Rights granted as compensation (continued)

Name

Date 
granted 

Incentive 
Plan

Balance at 
beginning 
of year

Rights 
awarded 
during the 
year 

Exercised 
during the 
year 

Forfeited in 
year

Balance 
at end of 
year

Fair value 
per right 
at grant 
date

Exercise 
price

Vested 
in year

Forfeited 
in year

Value of 
rights 
granted in 
year 1

Value of 
rights 
forfeited 
in year

Date on 
which 

grant vests Expiry date

No.

No.

No.

No.

No.

$

$

%

%

$’000

$’000

G P Pringle 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - EPS

 53,922 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - TSR

 53,922 

 -   

 -   

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 41,969 

 41,969 

 25,436 

 25,436 

R J Stephens

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - EPS

 53,922 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - TSR

 53,922 

 -   

 -   

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 41,969 

 41,969 

 25,436 

 25,436 

L J Cooper

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - EPS

 49,020 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - TSR

 49,020 

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

G Robinson 

14-Jun-11 Retention

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - EPS

22-Aug-11 LTIAD - TSR

P Scurrah

1-Jan-12 Retention

1-Jan-12 Retention

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

C M Davies

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - EPS

 58,824 

22-Nov-10 LTIAD - TSR

 58,824 

 -   

 -   

 38,154 

 38,154 

 22,529 

 22,529 

 30,000 

 -   

 -   

 16,000 

(16,000) 

 17,442 

 17,442 

 -   

 -   

 40,000 

(40,000) 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 53,922 

 1.14 

 53,922 

 0.94 

 41,969 

 2.93 

 41,969 

 1.28 

 25,436 

 3.44 

 25,436 

 3.44 

 53,922 

 1.14 

 53,922 

 0.94 

 41,969 

 2.93 

 41,969 

 1.28 

 25,436 

 3.44 

 25,436 

 3.44 

 49,020 

 1.14 

 49,020 

 0.94 

 38,154 

 2.93 

 38,154 

 1.28 

 22,529 

 3.44 

 22,529 

 3.44 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 3.24 

 -   

 100.00 

 17,442 

 2.93 

 17,442 

 1.28 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 3.44 

 -   

 100.00 

 30,000 

 3.44 

 58,824 

 1.14 

 58,824 

 0.94 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 100.00 

 100.00 

 -   

 -   

 -    30-Sep-13 31-Dec-14

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 123 

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 54 

 88 

 88 

 -   

 -   

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    28-Sep-12

1-Oct-14

 -    28-Sep-13

1-Oct-14

 -    30-Sep-13 31-Dec-14

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 123 

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 54 

 88 

 88 

 -   

 -   

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    28-Sep-12

1-Oct-14

 -    28-Sep-13

1-Oct-14

 -    30-Sep-13 31-Dec-14

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 112 

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 49 

 78 

 78 

 52 

 51 

 22 

 138 

 103 

 -   

 -   

 87 

 87 

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    28-Sep-12

1-Oct-14

 -    28-Sep-13

1-Oct-14

 -    14-Jun-12

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    30-Jun-14 31-Dec-15

 -    24-Feb-12

 -    1-Jan-13

 -    30-Sep-13 31-Dec-14

 -   22-Nov-13 31-Dec-14

 87  28-Sep-12

1-Oct-14

 87  28-Sep-13

1-Oct-14

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

28-Sep-11

STIAD 

 -   

 -   

 25,524 

 25,524 

(25,524) 

(25,524) 

 -   

 -   

 3.44 

 3.44 

 2,264,708   1,681,740 (481,936)

(220,351)  3,244,161 

 4,226 

 542 

1 The value of rights granted in the year is the fair value independently calculated at grant date using an expected outcome model, this was consistent with the Monte-Carlo simulation 

conducted in the prior year and resulted in similar outcomes. This amount is progressively expensed over the vesting period. 

The number of rights to be granted under the STIAD for performance throughout the year ended 30 June 2012 was determined by the Remuneration and Succession 
Committee in August 2011, based on the five-day VWAP of the Company’s share price leading up to that date.  The total value of rights to be granted represents 50% 
of the STIA bonuses paid to executives in respect of the year ended 30 June 2011.

38

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Directors’ Report (continued) 
Remuneration Report  

7.2 Bonuses and share-based compensation benefits

For each cash bonus and grant of rights during the financial year, the percentage of the available bonus or grant that was payable or that vested in the financial 
year, and the percentage that was forfeited because the person did not meet the service and performance criteria, is set out below.  The rights vest after three years, 
provided the vesting conditions are met.  No rights will vest if the conditions are not satisfied, hence the minimum value of the right yet to vest is nil.  The maximum 
value of the right yet to vest has been determined as the amount of the grant date fair value of the rights, which will be expensed over the vesting period of the award. 

Table 14 – Bonuses and share-based compensation benefits

Cash bonus

Share-based compensation benefits (rights)

Name

Payable

Forfeited

Year granted

Vested

Forfeited

Financial years in which 
rights may vest

Minimum total value 
of grant yet to vest

Maximum total value 
of grant yet to vest

L E Hockridge

91%

9%

%

%

D M O'Toole 

78%

22%

K R Lewsey

78%

22%

M P McAuliffe

0%

100%

M G Carter

79%

21%

G P Pringle 

80%

20%

R J Stephens

80%

20%

L J Cooper

78%

22%

G Robinson

78%

22%

P Scurrah

67%

33%

C M Davies

0%

100%

2011

2011

2011

2012

2011

2012

2012

2011

2012

2012

2011

2012

2012

2011

2012

2012

2011

2012

2012

2011

2012

2012

2011

2012

2012

2011

2012

2012

2012

2011

2012

2012

%

%

 100.00 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 52.77 

 47.23 

 -   

 100.00 

 25.88 

 74.12 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 100.00 

 -

 100.00 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 100.00 

 100.00 

2012

2013

2014

2014

2014

2013

2014

2014

2013

2014

2014

2013

2014

2014

2013

2014

2014

2013

2014

2014

2013

2014

2014

2013

2014

2012

2014

2012

2013

2014

2013

2014

$’000

$’000

 -   

 691 

 694 

 1,039 

 143 

 116 

 351 

 133 

 102 

 310 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 123 

 88 

 281 

 112 

 88 

 264 

 112 

 88 

 264 

 102 

 78 

 238 

 -   

 73 

 -   

 103 

 123 

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

 -   

CORpORATE GOVERNANCE STATEmENT  |  QR NATIONAL

3939

Corporate Governance
Statement

In operating its portfolio of above and below rail 
and road transport assets, QR National Limited 
and the entities it controls (QR National or 
the Company) business objective is to create 
sustainable value growth for its shareholders by:

•	

Raising	performance	of	the	Company’s	
operations to ‘best in class’ levels

•	 Maximising	our	share	of	the	strong	underlying	
growth within our core markets through 
innovative customer focused solutions

•	

Seeking	out	profitable	new	growth	
opportunities in existing and adjacent markets.

Fundamental to the long term success of  
QR National’s business objective is a commitment 
to achieving and demonstrating the highest 
standards of corporate governance. 

The Board is committed to pursuing its business 
objectives in a manner which is consistent with  
the highest standards of corporate governance 
and, in so doing, to embed, promote and foster 
high standards of corporate integrity, transparency 
and ethical standards in all its activities.

This Statement sets out QR National’s corporate 
governance practices as at 30 June 2012.

Since listing on the Australian Securities Exchange 
(ASX) on 22 November 2010, the Company has 
complied with all of the Corporate Governance 
Principles and Recommendations released by the 
ASX Corporate Governance Council.

Further information regarding the Company’s 
corporate governance and Board practices, 
including copies of the Company’s Constitution, 
Charters, Committee Terms of Reference and key 
corporate governance documents referred to in  
this Statement are available in the Corporate 
Governance section of the Company’s website, 
www.qrnational.com.au (QR National website). 
These documents are reviewed regularly to 
address any changes in governance practices and 
changes to the law. Any additional key corporate 
governance documents that may be adopted by 
the Company during the year will also be made 
available via the Company’s website at or about 
the time they are adopted.

The Board of Directors

The Board is responsible for the overall stewardship, 
strategic direction, governance and performance of 
QR National.

The Company’s Constitution empowers the Board 
to conduct the business of the Company and also 
enables the Board to delegate authority to Board 
Committees and/or the MD & CEO.

The Board operates under a Charter which sets out 
the responsibilities of the Board and also the roles 
of the Chairman, individual Directors, the MD & CEO 
and the Company Secretary.

The key functions and responsibilities reserved to 
the Board include:

•	

The	appointment	of	the	MD	&	CEO	and	reports

•	 Approval	of	the	overall	Company	strategy

•	 Approving	annual	budgets

•	 Approving	and	monitoring	the	framework	 

on governance, safety and risk management

•	

The	succession	and	remuneration	of	the	 
Board and senior executives.

The roles and responsibilities of Directors are also 
formalised in the letter of appointment which 
each Director receives and commits to on their 
appointment.

The letters of appointment also specify the time 
commitment envisaged, expectations in relation 
to committee work, remuneration arrangements, 
induction processes and details of the Company’s 
key governance policies, such as the securities 
dealing policy.

Board Membership and Size

The Board currently comprises nine Directors, 
including a Non-Executive Chairman, seven  
Non-Executive Directors and the MD & CEO.

The Chairman, MD & CEO, and five of the  
Non-Executive Directors were appointed  
on the date of incorporation of QR National  
(14 September 2010). Two of the Non-Executive 
Directors were appointed on 19 April 2012.

The Board comprises Directors who bring with 
them a range of skills, expertise and experience 
in finance, human resources, engineering, 
transportation and heavy industry, mining and 
resources, strategy, governance, risk management 
and government. The Board is skills based and all 
of the Non-Executive Directors are independent.

Details of Directors’ skills, experience, expertise  
and committee memberships are disclosed on 
pages 18 to 20 of the Annual Report.

The Board’s composition is determined by the 
Company’s Constitution and the principles set  
out in the Board Charter, Diversity Policy and 
Selection, Appointment and Re-election of  
Non-Executive Director Policy.

In summary, the Board composition principles  
are as follows:

•	 A	majority	of	Directors	are	to	be	independent	

Non-Executive Directors

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

There	are	to	be	a	minimum	of	three	Directors

There	must	be	at	least	one	female	Director

The	roles	of	Chairman	and	that	of	MD	&	CEO	
must be held by separate persons

The	Chairman	must	be	an	independent	 
Non-Executive Director

The	Board	as	a	whole	should	comprise	a	 
range and mix of skills and experience

The	principles	of	diversity	are	to	be	embraced

In	the	absence	of	special	circumstances	or	
a contrary decision by the Board, a Non-
Executive Director must retire (or stand for  
re-election annually) at the next Annual 
General Meeting (AGM) held after that 
Director has served nine years or more on 
the Board, calculated from the date of the 
Director’s first election.

The Board reviewed its composition and size in 
2011. The review determined the appropriate size 
of the Board for QR National should be a maximum 
of 10 Directors. At the 2011 AGM shareholders 
approved an amendment to the QR National 
Constitution to reduce the maximum size of the 
Board from 12 to 10 Directors. 

Director Independence

In accordance with the Board Charter the majority 
of Directors are independent. Only the MD & CEO  
is not considered independent, by virtue of being  
an executive of the Company.

The Board Charter provides that an independent 
Director is a Non-Executive Director who is not a 
member of management and whom the Board 
considers independent, having regard to the 
following guidelines, without limitation:

•	

The	Director	is	not	a	substantial	shareholder	
of the Company or an officer of a substantial 
shareholder of the Company.

40

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Corporate Governance  
Statement (continued)

•	

•	

•	

•	

The	Director	has	not,	within	the	past	three	
years, been employed by the Company in an 
executive capacity, or in the past three years, 
been a principal or employee of a material 
professional adviser or consultant of the 
Company.

The	Director	has	not	been	a	material	supplier	or	
customer of the Company, or otherwise been 
associated directly or indirectly with a material 
supplier or customer of the Company, where 
materiality as a customer of the Company refers 
to payments of more than 2% of the Company’s 
total consolidated revenue accumulated over the 
Company’s past financial year, and in relation to 
materiality as a supplier, to payments that are 
the greater of either $250,000 or 2% of total 
consolidated revenue accumulated over the 
supplier’s past financial year.

In	the	absence	of	special	circumstances	or	a	
contrary decision by the Board, the period of 
office held by the Director is not more than 
nine years, calculated from the date of the 
Director’s first election.

The	Director	is	free	from	any	interest	or	
relationship which could, or could reasonably 
be perceived to, materially interfere with the 
Director’s ability to act in the best interests  
of the Company.

If a Director does not meet these guidelines, it is 
not conclusive that the Director is independent.  
The decision as to whether a Director is 
independent is a decision made by the Board.

The Board considers materiality thresholds on 
a case-by-case basis, if required. Each Director 
confirms their independence at each Board meeting 
and the Board as a whole assesses Directors’ 
independence regularly. During the year, the Board 
reviewed existing guidelines and an outcome of the 
review was the adoption of additional guidelines 
setting out quantitative materiality thresholds to 
assist Directors’ when assessing the continuing 
independence of Directors. The Board has confirmed 
the independence of all Non-Executive Directors. 
Only the MD & CEO is not considered independent, 
by virtue of being an executive of the Company. 

All Directors must declare actual or potential 
conflicts of interest and excuse themselves from 
discussions on issues where they may have an 
actual or potential conflict of interest. 

In circumstances where a conflict is believed  
to exist the Director concerned will not take  
part in any decision or consideration of the issue.  
In addition, the Director will not receive copies  
of the relevant Board papers.

During the year, the Board adopted a Related  
Party Transactions Policy and Procedure. This 
policy further refines the procedure for identifying, 
disclosing and, as required, seeking approval of 
related party transactions.

Tenure and Retirement

To promote demonstrable independence the 
Company has in place a tenure policy for Directors, 
which provides that, in the absence of special 
circumstances or a decision made otherwise by the 
Board, a Non-Executive Director must retire (or stand 
for re-election annually) at the next AGM which is 
held after a Director has served nine years or more 
on the Board from the date of their first election. 

In accordance with the Company’s Constitution 
and ASX Listing Rules, a Non-Executive Director 
who wishes to continue in their role as  
Non-Executive Director must seek re-election  
by shareholders at a general meeting.

Chairman

John Prescott AC, an independent Non-Executive 
Director has been Chairman of the Company 
since September 2010. The role of the Chairman 
is clearly set out in the Board Charter. It includes 
chairing meetings, providing Board leadership and 
promoting a respectful, consultative relationship 
between Board and management as well as 
maintaining relationships with key stakeholders.

Company Secretary

Details of Board and Committee meetings held 
during the year, and attendances at those meetings, 
are set out in the Annual Report on page 21.

Each formal Board meeting considers various 
matters including, but not limited to, the MD & 
CEO’s Report, the QR National Group Monthly 
Performance Report and a Workplace Health and 
Safety Report. Periodic reports are also provided 
on diversity, governance, and compliance, as well 
as submissions on the items specified in the Board 
Charter. At the end of each Board meeting, the  
Non-Executive Directors meet without management.

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Company 
Secretary are present at all QR National Board 
meetings, and other senior executives attend 
from time to time at the invitation of the Board or 
when a matter under their responsibility is being 
considered. In accordance with the Board Charter, 
Directors may also access senior management 
at any time through the Chairman, MD & CEO or 
Company Secretary.

To provide due consideration of items for discussion 
and/or decision, Board and Committee papers 
are distributed five business days prior to each 
meeting. The Company continues to deliver Board 
and Committee Papers electronically, as part of the 
Company’s commitment to governance excellence 
and innovation.

Director Induction and Ongoing 
Education

The Company Secretary is accountable to the Board 
for facilitating the Company’s corporate governance 
processes. Each Director is entitled to access the 
advice and services of the Company Secretary.

An induction process including appointment letters 
and ongoing education exists to promote early, 
active and relevant involvement of new members 
of the Board.

In accordance with the Company’s Constitution, 
the appointment or removal of the Company 
Secretary is a matter for the Board as a whole.

Details of the Company Secretary’s experience  
and qualifications are set out on page 20 of the 
Annual Report.

Board Process

Formal Board meetings are held at least nine  
times during the year. In addition to these  
formal meetings the Board schedules off-site 
meetings dedicated to strategy and site visits  
of the Company’s operations.

The Board also holds supplementary meetings 
to address financial updates and any significant 
matters that may arise.

All QR National Directors are members of the 
Australian Institute of Company Directors and 
are encouraged to further their knowledge 
through participation in industry, governance and 
government forums, and attend seminars hosted by 
the Australian Institute of Company Directors and 
other peak professional bodies.

In addition to peer review, interaction and 
networking with other Directors and industry 
leaders, QR National Directors participate 
from time to time in QR National leadership 
forums and actively engage with QR National 
employees by visiting QR National operations to 
gain an understanding of operational employee 
requirements, challenges and issues.

CORpORATE GOVERNANCE STATEmENT  |  QR NATIONAL

4141

Directors are encouraged and given the opportunity 
to broaden their knowledge of the business by 
visiting offices in different locations. During the 
year, Directors conducted site visits at Abbott Point, 
Queensland and Altona, Victoria.

Independent Advice and Access to 
Information

A process is in place whereby Directors, either 
collectively or individually, may seek independent 
professional advice where it is considered necessary 
to fulfil their duties and responsibilities. This is done 
at QR National’s expense. A Director wishing to 
seek such advice must obtain the approval of the 
Chairman.

Board Committees

To assist the Board in performing its responsibilities, 
it has established four Committees. Those 
Committees are:

•	 Audit	&	Risk	Management	Committee

•	

Remuneration	&	Succession	Committee

•	 Governance	&	Nomination	Committee

•	

Safety	&	Environment	Committee.

Each Committee is chaired by a Non-Executive 
Director and comprises a majority of independent 
Non-Executive Directors. 

Each Committee is governed by its own Terms of 
Reference which are reviewed annually. 

Details of the membership of each of the 
Committees, including the names and qualifications 
of the Committee members and their attendance 
(along with details of the number of meetings held 
in the 2011–2012 financial year) are set out on 
page 21 of the Annual Report.

Audit & Risk Management Committee

The Audit & Risk Management Committee assists 
the Board by reviewing and monitoring the integrity 
of QR National’s financial reporting systems, as well 
as risk management, internal control structures and 
compliance systems.

Under the Audit & Risk Management Committee’s 
Terms of Reference there must be at least three 
members of the Committee, all of whom must 
be independent Non-Executive Directors, and the 
Chair of the Committee must not be the Chairman 
of the Board. Currently, the Committee consists of 
four members that are all (including the Chairman) 
independent Non-Executive Directors.

In addition to the Audit & Risk Management 
Committee members, the MD & CEO, CFO, 
Chief Internal Auditor, external auditors and 
Company Secretary regularly attend Audit & Risk 
Management Committee meetings.

Remuneration & Succession Committee 

The Remuneration & Succession Committee 
assists the Board by reviewing and providing 
recommendations to the Board on the recruitment, 
retention and remuneration of the MD & CEO 
and senior executives, as well as the performance 
measurement arrangements for Directors, the MD 
& CEO and senior executives. 

Under the Remuneration & Succession Committee’s 
Terms of Reference there must be at least three 
members of the Committee, a majority of whom 
must be independent Non-Executive Directors, and 
the Chair of the Committee must be an independent 
Non-Executive Director. Currently, the Committee 
consists of four members that are all (including the 
Chairman) independent Non-Executive Directors.

Governance & Nomination Committee

The Governance & Nomination Committee 
assists the Board by reviewing and making 
recommendations on the governance framework, 
policies and compliance, as well as on Board 
appointments, succession, diversity, composition 
and performance. 

Under its Terms of Reference, the Governance  
& Nomination Committee is to consist of at least  
three Board members. The Committee currently 
consists of four members, including three 
independent Non-Executive Directors. The Chairman 
of the Governance & Nomination Committee is  
an independent Non-Executive Director.

Safety & Environment Committee

The Safety & Environment Committee assists the 
Board by reviewing and making recommendations 
to the Board on safety and environmental 
performance, strategies, policies and compliance. 

Under its Terms of Reference, the Safety  
& Environment Committee is to consist of at 
least three Board members. The Committee 
currently consists of four members, including 
three independent Non-Executive Directors. The 
Chairman of the Safety & Environment Committee 
is an independent Non-Executive Director.

QR Network Board

QR Network Pty Ltd (QR Network) is a wholly-owned 
subsidiary of QR National and operates the below 
rail business of QR National. QR Network is subject 
to ring-fencing obligations under the Queensland 
Competition Authority Act 1997 (Qld) and the 
access undertakings it provides to the Queensland 
Competition Authority from time to time.

Additional governance requirements operate to 
ensure that QR Network’s ring-fencing obligations 
are met.

A majority of QR Network Directors are required  
to be independent. The QR Network Board  
is currently comprised of five Directors, including 
three independent Non-Executive Directors.  
The Network Board Charter is available on the  
QR National website.

The Chairman of the QR Network Board is an 
independent Non-Executive Director.

Board and Committee Performance 
Evaluation

A performance review is undertaken annually in 
relation to the Board and the Board Committees.  
In addition to individual evaluation sessions 
between the Chairman and individual Directors, 
a formal self-evaluation questionnaire is used to 
facilitate the annual performance review process.

The annual review of the Chairman of the Board  
is facilitated by the Chairman of the Governance  
& Nominations Committee.

During the year, a review and evaluation of the 
performance of the Board, the Chairman, each 
Director and each Board Committee was conducted 
in accordance with the process described above.

As part its ongoing responsibilities, the Board 
actively focuses on strategy development, the 
development of talent and executive succession, 
and engagement in the Company’s operations  
by undertaking site visits.

Management Performance Evaluation

A key function of the Board is to monitor the 
performance of management according to the 
strategies and objectives decided by the Board.  
The Board sets the financial, operational, 
management and individual targets of the MD  
& CEO annually. The MD & CEO (in consultation 
with the Board) sets targets for his direct reports.

Performance against these targets is assessed 
periodically throughout the year. Performance 
evaluations for senior management have been 
completed for the year end and details of the 
process followed are set out in the Remuneration 
Report within the Annual Report.

The Board, together with the Remuneration & 
Succession Committee, reviews the performance 
of the MD & CEO and Executive Leadership Team 
members, inclusive of the CFO and Company 
Secretary.

Further details are set out in the Remuneration 
Report within the Annual Report.

42

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Corporate Governance  
Statement (continued)

MD & CEO, Senior Management and 
Delegations

The day-to-day management of the Company 
and the execution of the Company’s policies and 
strategies are delegated to the MD & CEO, and 
through the MD & CEO, to other Senior Executives.

The MD & CEO and those senior executives 
comprising the Executive Leadership Team have 
their roles and responsibilities set out in their 
employment contracts.

Delegations made by the Board and the delegation 
framework supporting delegations by the MD  
& CEO are reviewed annually by the Board.

Executive Management Structure

The senior executive management structure of 
the Company comprises the MD & CEO and the 
Executive Leadership Team.

The Executive Leadership Team comprises the  
MD & CEO and his direct reports.

The role of the Executive Leadership Team is to 
provide the MD & CEO with support and assistance 
in managing the Group’s performance and 
implementing the key strategic initiatives set  
by the Board.

The Executive Leadership Team supports the MD  
& CEO in leading change in the QR National Group, 
assessing risk and executing mitigation actions, 
monitoring compliance with policies, developing 
strategies for Board approval, assessing business 
and key organisational matters and making 
recommendations on courses of action.

The Executive Leadership Team also provides 
organisational leadership to ensure alignment  
and execution of corporate strategy. 

Typically, the Executive Leadership Team meets 
every week and has full day meetings once a month.

Remuneration Practices

The Company seeks to attract and retain high-
performance Directors and executives with 
appropriate skills, qualifications and experience to 
add value to the company and fulfil the roles and 
responsibilities required.

Executive remuneration is to reflect performance 
and, accordingly, remuneration is structured 
with a fixed component and performance-based 
remuneration component.

Non-Executive Directors are paid fixed fees for 
their services in accordance with the Company’s 
Constitution. Fees paid are a composite fee 
(covering all Board and Committee responsibilities)

and any contributions by QR National to a fund 
for the purposes of superannuation benefits for a 
Director. No other retirement benefits schemes are 
in place in respect to Non-Executive Directors.

The QR National Code of Conduct supports the 
Company’s values and provides guidance on 
Company expectations, with respect to compliance 
with its ethical, legal and statutory obligations.

Senior Executive and Non-Executive 
Director Share Holding and Retention 
Policy

The Company has in place a share holding and 
retention policy which applies to Non–Executive 
Directors, the MD & CEO and the direct reports of 
the MD & CEO. It provides that within six years of 
the date of listing of the Company or appointment 
(whichever is the later date):

•	 Non-Executive	Directors	are	expected	to	

•	

•	

accumulate and maintain one year worth  
of Directors’ fees of shares in the Company  
(to be calculated with reference to the total 
fees paid during the period divided by the 
number of years).

The	MD	&	CEO	is	expected	to	accumulate	and	
maintain one year worth of fixed remuneration 
in shares in the Company (to be calculated 
with reference to the total fixed remuneration 
paid during the period divided by the number 
of years).

The	MD	&	CEO’s	direct	reports	are	expected	
to accumulate and maintain 50% of one year 
worth of fixed remuneration in shares in the 
Company (to be calculated with reference to 
the total fixed remuneration paid during the 
period divided by the number of years).

Further information on remuneration is disclosed  
on pages 24 to 38 in the Remuneration Report 
within the Annual Report.

Code of Conduct

The Company recognises the critical importance of 
integrity, honesty and fairness in its dealings.

QR National has adopted and continues to promote 
its Company values, which are:

•	

•	

•	

Safety – Safety of ourselves and others is our 
number one priority.

Integrity – We are honest and fair and conduct 
business with the highest ethical standards.

Leadership, Passion and Courage – We are 
passionate about leading change. We deliver 
results with energy and conviction.

•	 World Class Performance – We deliver world 
class performance and superior value for our 
shareholders, customers and staff.

These values shape how QR National makes 
decisions, treats people, runs its business and  
gets results.

The key principles of the Code of Conduct provide 
that QR National Group employees must:

•	 Be	safe	and	fit	for	work

•	 Behave	professionally

•	

Respect	others

•	 Conduct	ourselves	lawfully,	ethically	and	fairly

•	

•	

Responsibly	manage	conflicts	of	interest

Protect	confidential	information

•	 Use	the	Company’s	systems,	equipment,	

property and tools appropriately

•	 Uphold	securities	exchange	requirements

•	 Consider	the	community	and	the	environment

•	

Report	suspected	breaches	of	the	Code	of	
Conduct.

Compliance and Assurance

Adherence to the Company’s Code of Conduct 
and other policies is monitored by QR National’s 
Internal Audit and Risk Management teams.  
The Company also conducts an annual compliance 
certificate process through which business units 
evaluate and report to management on their 
compliance with the Company’s key legislative 
obligations.

An e-learning module was implemented during 
the year to assist all QR National employees to 
understand the Code. This training package was 
recognised with an award at the Asia Pacific 
Learning and Technology Impact Awards 2012. 

Whistleblower Policy

The Company is committed to ensuring all of its 
business activities are carried out in a way that is 
both ethical and compliant and also recognises 
that any genuine commitment to detecting and 
preventing illegal and/or improper conduct must 
include a mechanism whereby employees and 
others can report their concerns freely and without 
fear of reprisal or intimidation. QR National has 
adopted a Whistleblower Policy that provides  
such a mechanism.

The Whistleblower Policy provides guidance on how 
illegal or improper conduct can be reported, how  
it will be investigated, and the protection available 
to those acting as whistleblowers. QR National has 
established a Whistleblower Hotline as a means by 
which concerns about illegal or improper conduct 
can be reported.

CORpORATE GOVERNANCE STATEmENT  |  QR NATIONAL

4343

Political Donations

QR National has a policy of impartiality with 
respect to party politics and does not make 
donations to political parties or their members.

Diversity

QR National has a Diversity Policy which sets out its 
objectives and reporting practices with respect to 
diversity. This policy is available on the QR National 
website.

The measurable objectives for gender diversity, 
agreed by QR National’s Board in 2011 for the 
2012 year, are set out below:

•	 At	least	one	female	Director	at	all	times

•	

•	

The	percentage	of	females	in	the	Management	
Leadership Team to be a minimum of 15% by 
the end of FY13

From	FY12	at	least	25%	of	future	graduate	
intakes to be female.

A comparative of QR National Group’s female 
employees between 30 June 2011 and 30 June 
2012 is set out below:

•	

•	

•	

•	

12.35%	of	total	employees	at	30	June	2012	
(11.64% at 30 June 2011)

10.53%	of	Management	Leadership	Team	 
at 30 June 2012 (11.29% at 30 June 2011)

30%	of	graduate	intake

22%	of	the	Board	at	30	June	2012	 
(11.11% at 30 June 2011).

During the year, QR National established a 
Diversity Council. Consistent with the stated 
purpose of the QR National Diversity Policy, the 
aim of the Diversity Council is to build a workforce 
and a work environment that promotes diversity by 
employing people from both genders, with different 
gender identities, impairments and abilities, ages, 
languages, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, sexual 
orientations, religious beliefs, political beliefs, trade 
union activities, parental and family responsibilities, 
and social backgrounds. During the year, the 
Diversity Council successfully established various 
nationwide initiatives including:

•	 A	Senior	Women’s	Networking	Group	was	

•	

established in December 2011, providing the 
opportunity for female employees to connect 
and network with women in senior and middle 
management positions within QR National. 
The Group meets on a bi-monthly basis.

The	Inaugural	QR	National	International	
Women’s Day Lunch was launched. Women 
from high schools, universities and Indigenous 
groups had the opportunity to hear from  
and engage with women employed in a range 
of positions in QR National.

•	 Management	leadership	teams	have	
undertaken development to raise 
understanding and awareness of unconscious 
bias and how it can influence key decision-
making in recruitment, promotion and 
development opportunities.

•	 Women	in	senior	roles	have	been	sponsored	 

to participate in the Chief Executive Women’s 
Leaders program. QR National hosted a  
Chief Executive Women’s program session  
in May 2012.

•	 QR	National	is	committed	to	increasing	

Indigenous employment across its national 
footprint. The Company signed the Australian 
Employment Covenant in 2011 to provide 
sustainable job opportunities for Indigenous 
Australians. Through the work of an 
Indigenous Ambassador, the Major Skills team, 
and management, throughout key locations, 
QR National has been able to build important 
relationships and networks with local 
communities, high schools and employment 
groups, resulting in increased employment 
prospects for Indigenous young people.

•	 A	variety	of	employment	strategies	including	
site visits, school talks, Indigenous career  
fairs, work experience, school-based 
apprentices and full apprenticeships, have  
been used for Indigenous young men and 
women to join QR National. Mentors have 
been used to support these young people 
through their careers.

•	 QR	National	has	reviewed	its	recruitment	
practices to ensure there are no barriers  
for Indigenous applicants. This has included  
cross-cultural training for the National 
Employment Centre staff.

Corporate Responsibility Statement

QR National recognises that acting responsibly, 
operating in a sustainable manner, making a 
positive contribution to society is vital to our 
ongoing business success.

We adhere to the following principles:

Safety
•	

Safety	for	ourselves	and	others	is	our	number	
one priority.

•	 We	work	with	our	people,	customers	and	

suppliers to create and maintain a safe 
workplace.

•	 We	have	comprehensive	safety	policies	and	 

are committed to our target of ZEROHarm.

Community
•	 We	support	the	communities	in	which	we	
work through community investment and 
engagement programs.

•	 We	are	part	of	the	community	and	we	are	 

here for the long term.

People
•	 We	are	committed	to	promoting	a	non-

discriminatory, diverse, inclusive, respectful  
and collaborative business.

•	 We	promote	equal	employment	opportunity	

in our recruitment, selection and employment 
practices.

•	 We	are	committed	to	the	ongoing	education	

and training of our people.

Performance
•	 We	strive	to	deliver	world-class	performance	

and superior value for our customers.

•	 We	deliver	results	with	energy	and	conviction.

•	 We	commit	to	delivering	outstanding	corporate	
performance and returns to our shareholders.

Integrity
•	 We	adhere	to	our	Code	of	Conduct.

•	 We	are	honest	and	fair,	and	conduct	business	

with the highest ethical standards.

•	 We	adhere	to	high	standards	of	corporate	
governance, and report annually on our 
corporate governance.

Environment
•	 We	responsibly	consider	the	community	and	
the environment in our actions and decisions.

•	 We	are	committed	to	the	efficient	use	of	
resources, and waste minimisation.

•	 We	are	committed	to	promoting	rail	as	an	

energy efficient mode of transport.

Details of the Company’s safety, people, 
environment and community activities and  
details of the Company’s sustainability activities 
are set out on pages 14 to 17 of the Annual Report.

Disclosure and Communications Policy

QR National is committed to keeping its 
shareholders fully informed on all matters that are 
relevant or material to its financial performance.

QR National has detailed policies and procedures 
in place to ensure compliance with ASX Listing 
Rules and Corporations Act continuous disclosure 
requirements including a Disclosure and 
Communications Policy. 

In addition to complying with its disclosure 
obligations under Listing Rule 3.1 by issuing  
ASX announcements, QR National communicates 
with its shareholders through its Half Year Results, 
Full Year Results and Annual Report. Market 
announcements made to the ASX are also made 
available on the QR National website. Shareholders 
are also given an opportunity to ask questions of 
the Company at its Annual General Meeting.

44

ANNuAL REpORT 2011–12

Corporate Governance  
Statement (continued)

These policies and practices ensure that all 
shareholders and investors have equal access  
to QR National’s information.

Disclosure Committee

In accordance with the Company’s Disclosure 
and Communications Policy the Company has 
established a Disclosure Committee.

The Disclosure Committee’s role is to consider 
potentially material price sensitive information and 
determine whether that information is required to 
be disclosed to the ASX.

The members of the Committee may vary from 
time to time but must consist of at least two 
members of the Executive Leadership Team and 
a Non-Executive Director of the Company. In 
practice, the Committee has comprised the MD  
& CEO, CFO, Company Secretary and Chairman  
of the Board.

The Company has established guidelines to assist 
officers and employees of the Company with 
complying with the Company’s Disclosure and 
Communications Policy and these are available  
on the QR National website.

Securities Dealing

QR National is committed to ensuring the Company 
and its employees act lawfully at all times in their 
dealings with securities and inside information.

The Company’s Securities Dealing Policy applies  
to all Directors and employees of the Group and:

•	

•	

•	

Provides	guidance	on	the	legal	restrictions	 
on dealing in securities

Prescribes	share	trading	black-out	periods	
(commencing 1 January and 1 July and 
continuing until, and inclusive of, the day 
of filing each of the Half Year and Full Year 
Financial Reports respectively)

Sets	out	additional	limitations	on	trading	by	
Directors and executives including a prohibition 
on margin loans and hedging arrangements.

Material Business Risk Management

The Company is committed to managing risks in  
an integrated, systematic and practical manner. 
The overall objective of risk management is to 
assist the Company to achieve its objectives 
by appropriately considering both threats and 
opportunities and making informed decisions.

The Audit & Risk Management Committee  
oversees the process for identifying and managing 
risk in QR National, in accordance with the  
Risk Management, Compliance & Assurance Policy 
(Risk Policy).

The Chief Internal Auditor provides ongoing 
audit reports to the Audit & Risk Management 
Committee, as well as an annual assessment of  
the adequacy and effectiveness of the Group’s 
control processes and risk management procedures.

The external audit function is performed by 
PricewaterhouseCoopers. 

QR National has adopted a Non-Audit Services 
Policy which prescribes the manner in which  
QR National will engage PricewaterhouseCoopers, 
without compromising their independence as the 
Company’s external auditor. 

The Non-Audit Services Policy also sets out 
prohibited services which PricewaterhouseCoopers 
may not provide to the Company in order to 
maintain the independence required to execute 
the role of external auditor. In essence, this policy 
provides that PricewaterhouseCoopers must not 
provide services that have the potential to impair or 
appear to impair the independence of its audit role.

PricewaterhouseCoopers has provided an Auditor’s 
Independence Declaration in relation to its audit  
of the QR National FY12 Financial Report. A copy  
of this Declaration is set out on page 23 of the 
Annual Report.

Further details are set out in the Directors’ Report 
on pages 18 to 44 of the Annual Report. 

 CEO and CFO Declaration

The Board has obtained a written assurance from 
the MD & CEO and CFO that the declaration 
provided under section 295A of the Corporations Act 
and Corporate Governance Principle 7.3 are founded 
on a sound system of risk management and internal 
control, and that the system is operating effectively 
in all material respects in relation to financial 
reporting and material business risks.

The MD & CEO and CFO Declaration, relating  
to the Company’s Financial Report for the year  
ended 30 June 2012, was provided prior to 
approving and signing the Financial Report.

The Risk Policy, summarised below, sets out the 
actions that QR National will undertake to  
manage risk:

•	 Applying	risk	tolerance	thresholds,	both	at	 

the enterprise level and at the business level, 
for each major category of identified risks.

•	 Developing,	implementing	and	maintaining	
principles and processes that support the 
effective management of QR National’s 
compliance obligations.

•	

Effectively	managing	risks	and	compliance	
obligations, documenting risk management 
and compliance activities, and providing timely 
assurance to the MD & CEO and the Board.

•	 Assessing	and	continuously	improving	the	
effectiveness of the risk management and 
compliance processes and controls, through 
training, ongoing monitoring, periodic reviews, 
communication and consultation.

During the reporting period management has 
reported to the Board on the effectiveness of the 
Company’s management of material business risks. 
Management has confirmed that the Company’s 
Risk Management, Compliance & Assurance 
Framework (Framework) and Risk Policy align 
with the best practice guidelines, and that the 
Framework is adequate in terms of its design and 
content to give effect to the Risk Policy. 

Further supporting the Company’s risk 
management processes QR National has: 

•	 An	internal	audit	function	that	is	independent	
of the external auditor (described below)

•	 A	risk	register	with	risk	profiles	populated	at	the	

various layers of the organisation

•	 A	management	specification	that	outlines	the	
processes for the prevention, detection and 
management of fraud within QR National, and 
for fair dealing in matters pertaining to fraud.

Internal and External Audit

The Company has an internal audit function  
that operates under an internal audit charter. 

The internal audit function is independent of 
management and the external auditor, and 
is overseen by the Audit & Risk Management 
Committee.

Financial 
Report
for the year ended  
30 June 2012

ABN: 14 146 335 622

These financial statements are the consolidated financial statements 
of the consolidated entity consisting of QR National Limited and 
its subsidiaries (“Group”). The financial statements are presented in 
Australian dollars.

QR National Limited is a company limited by shares, incorporated  
and domiciled in Australia. Its registered office is:

QR National Limited
Level 17 
175 Eagle Street 
BRISBANE, QLD 4000

A description of the nature of the consolidated entity’s operations 
and its principal activities are included in the review of operations 
and activities and in the Directors’ Report, which are not part of these 
financial statements.

The financial statements were authorised for issue by the Directors on 
23 August 2012. The Directors have the power to amend and reissue 
the financial statements.

Through the use of the internet, we have ensured that our corporate 
reporting is timely and complete. All press releases, financial reports 
and other information are available at our Investor Centre on our 
website; www.qrnational.com.au.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL
QR NATIONAL

45

Consolidated income statement 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Consolidated balance sheet 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Consolidated statement of cash flows 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

Summary of significant accounting policies 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements 

Financial risk management 

Segment information 

Revenue 

6  Other income 

7 

8 

9 

Expenses 

Income tax expense 

Cash and cash equivalents 

10  Trade and other receivables 

11 

Inventories 

12  Derivative financial instruments 

13  Other assets 

14 

Investments accounted for using the equity method 

15  Property, plant and equipment 

16 

Intangible assets 

17  Other financial assets 

18  Deferred tax assets 

19  Trade and other payables 

20  Borrowings 

21  Provisions 

22  Other liabilities 

23  Deferred tax liabilities 

24  Contributed equity 

25  Reserves 

26  Dividends 

27  Key management personnel disclosures 

28  Contingencies 

29  Commitments 

30 

Interests in joint ventures and associates 

31  Related party transactions 

32  Business combination 

33  Deed of cross guarantee 

34  Remuneration of auditors 

35  Reconciliation of profit after income tax to net cash  

inflow from operating activities 

36  Earnings per share 

37  Share-based payments 

38  Parent entity financial information 

39  Events occurring after the reporting period 

Directors’ declaration 

Independent auditor’s report to the members of QR National Limited   

46

46

47

48

49

50

50

61

62

66

69

69

70

71

71

72

72

73

73

73

74

75

75

75

76

76

76

78

78

79

79

80

80

82

83

84

85

86

86

88

88

89

89

91

91

91

92

46

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

Consolidated inCome statement
For the year ended 30 June 2012

Revenue from continuing operations

Other income

Consumables

Employee benefits expense

Depreciation and amortisation expense

Other expenses

Finance costs

Share of net profit of associates and joint venture partnership accounted for using the equity method

Profit before income tax

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit for the year

Notes

5

6

7

7

7

7

7

8

2012
$m

3,504.0

130.1

(1,400.1)

(1,132.7)

(463.7)

(41.9)

(41.5)

0.1

554.3

(113.4)

440.9

2011(1)
$m

3,196.7

96.0

(1,327.2)

(1,220.5)

(457.2)

(62.8)

(141.2)

-

83.8

277.1

360.9

Cents

Cents

Earnings per share for profit attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the Company:

Basic and diluted earnings per share

36

18.1

15.4

The above consolidated income statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Consolidated statement oF Comprehensive inCome
For the year ended 30 June 2012

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income

Changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges recognised in equity

Changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges recognised in the income statement

Income tax relating to components of other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax

Total comprehensive income for the year 

The above consolidated statement of comprehensive income should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result of a change in accounting policy.

Notes

2012
$m

2011(1)
$m

440.9                

360.9

 25(a)                  

 25(a)                  

8(c)

(1.4)                  

1.8

(0.1)

0.3                   

(2.3)

1.9

0.1

(0.3)

441.2                

360.6

Consolidated balanCe sheet
as at 30 June 2012

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Inventories

Derivative financial instruments

Other assets

Assets classified as held for sale

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Derivative financial instruments

Inventories

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Investments accounted for using the equity method

Other financial assets

Other assets

Total non-current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Other liabilities

Current tax liabilities

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

Provisions

Borrowings

Deferred tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

EQUITY

Contributed equity

Reserves

Retained earnings

Total equity

The above consolidated balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result of a change in accounting policy.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

47

Notes

9

10

11

12

13

15

12

11

15

16

14

17

12

19

21

22

12

21

20

23

22

24(b)

25(a)

2012
$m

98.8

548.1

215.8

0.1

8.0

8.7

879.5

-

8.7

9,037.2

16.6

78.0

-

0.5

9,141.0

10,020.5

1.3

349.6

371.4

37.5

7.9

767.7

2.0

81.3

1,201.6

363.5

310.2

1,958.6

2,726.3

7,294.2

6,119.1

(2.0)

1,177.1

7,294.2

2011(1)
$m

117.1

473.5

177.6

21.3

10.6

-

800.1

3.5

20.7

8,325.2

24.9

0.5

36.3

-

8,411.1

9,211.2

27.3

310.2

320.2

36.2

-

693.9

3.8

81.3

803.2

257.9

344.7

1,490.9

2,184.8

7,026.4

6,111.9

(2.3)

916.8

7,026.4

48

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

Consolidated statement oF Changes in equity
For the year ended 30 June 2012

Attributable to owners of QR National Limited

Balance at 1 July 2010                                                                                             

Impact of change in accounting policy (net of tax)

Restated total equity at the beginning of the financial year

Profit for the year as reported in 2011 financial statements

Impact of change in accounting policy (net of tax)

Restated profit for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners:

Capital distribution to Queensland Rail Limited

Capital distribution to State of Queensland

Capital contribution from State of Queensland

Dividends provided for or paid

Share-based payments

Balance at 30 June 2011

Balance at 1 July 2011

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners:

Dividends provided for or paid

Share-based payments

Balance at 30 June 2012

Notes

1(q)

1(q)

24(c)

24(c)

24(b)

26(a)

24(b)

26(a)

24(b)

Contributed 
equity
$m

2,067.0

–

2,067.0

–

–

–

–

–

(332.3)

(23.0)

4,397.3

–

2.9

4,044.9

6,111.9

6,111.9

–

–

–

–

7.2

Reserves
 $m

(2.0)

–

(2.0)

–

–

–

(0.3)

(0.3)

–

–

–

–

–

–

(2.3)

(2.3)

–

0.3

0.3

–

–

Retained 
profits
 $m

        619.0       

23.3

642.3

349.5

11.4

360.9

–

360.9

–

–

–

(86.4)

–

(86.4)

Total 
equity
 $m

2,684.0

23.3

2,707.3

349.5

11.4

360.9

(0.3)

360.6

(332.3)

(23.0)

4,397.3

(86.4)

2.9

3,958.5

916.8

7,026.4

916.8

440.9

–

440.9

(180.6)

–

7,026.4

440.9

0.3

441.2

(180.6)

7.2

7,294.2

The above consolidated statement of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

6,119.1

(2.0)

1,177.1

Consolidated statement oF Cash Flows
For the year ended 30 June 2012

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

49

Cash flows from operating activities

Receipts from customers

Interest received

Payments to suppliers and employees

Interest and other costs of finance paid

Income taxes paid

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Payments for acquisition of business, net of cash acquired

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Payments for property, plant and equipment

Payments for investment in associates

Payments for available-for-sale financial assets

Proceeds from sale of business

Net cash (outflow) from investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from borrowings

Repayment of borrowings

Dividends paid to Company's shareholders

Net cash inflow from financing activities

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the financial half-year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

Notes

2012
$m

2011(1)
$m

3,884.3

2.5

(2,881.7)

(80.7)

–

924.4

–

45.8

(1,156.3)

(41.2)

–

–

3,665.8

3.2

(2,847.1)

(234.5)

(2.3)

585.1

(12.3)

21.3

(1,352.0)

–

(0.5)

2.1

(1,151.7)

(1,341.4)

390.0

–

(180.6)

209.4

(17.9)

116.7

98.8

1,423.3

(471.2)

(86.4)

865.7

109.4

7.3

116.7

35

32

26(a)

9

Given the short-term nature of the drawdowns and repayments, cash flows in relation to the Syndicated Debt Facility (effective from November 2010) are presented 
on a net basis in the cash flows from financing activities.

The above consolidated statement of cash flows should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result of a change in accounting policy.

50

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies

The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these 
consolidated financial statements are set out below. These policies have  
been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise  
stated. The financial statements are for the consolidated entity consisting  
of QR National Limited (“the company”) and its subsidiaries, and together  
are referred to as the “Group” or “QR National”.

(a)  Basis of preparation
These general purpose financial statements have been prepared in accordance 
with Australian Accounting Standards, other authoritative pronouncements  
of the Australian Accounting Standards Board and the Corporations Act 2001.  
QR National Limited is a for-profit entity for the purpose of preparing the 
financial statements. 

The financial statements were approved for issue by the Directors on  
23 August 2012. The Directors have the power to amend and reissue the 
financial statements.

(i)  Compliance with IFRS

The consolidated financial statements of the Group also comply with 
International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”).

(ii)  New and amended standards adopted by the Group

The Group adopted a number of Australian Accounting Standards and 
Interpretations which were mandatory for annual reporting periods 
beginning on or after 1 July 2011. There has been no effect on the financial 
performance or position of the Group from the adoption of these standards 
and interpretations.

(iii)  Historical cost convention

These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost 
convention, as modified by the revaluation of available-for-sale financial  
assets, and financial assets and liabilities (including derivative instruments)  
at fair value.

(iv)  Critical accounting estimates

The preparation of financial statements requires the use of certain critical 
accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement 
in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies. The areas involving 
a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and 
estimates are significant to the financial statements, are disclosed in note 2.

(b)  Principles of consolidation
(i)  Subsidiaries

The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets and liabilities 
of all subsidiaries of the Group as at reporting date, and the results of all 
subsidiaries for the year then ended.

Subsidiaries are all entities over which the Group has the power to govern the 
financial and operating policies, generally accompanying a shareholding of 
more than one-half of the voting rights.

Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred 
to the Group, and deconsolidated from the date that control ceases. 
Transactions between continuing and discontinued operations are treated  
as external from the date the operation was discontinued.

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions 
between Group companies are eliminated on consolidation.

(ii)  Associates

Associates are all entities over which the Group has significant influence but 
not control or joint control, generally accompanying a shareholding of between 
20% and 50% of the voting rights. Investments in associates are accounted 
for using the equity method of accounting, after initially being recognised 
at cost. The Group’s investment in associates includes goodwill identified on 
acquisition. Details of investment in associates are set out in note 30(d).

The Group’s share of its associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses 
is recognised in profit or loss, and its share of post-acquisition other 
comprehensive income is recognised in other comprehensive income.  
The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the  
carrying amount of the investment. Dividends receivable from associates  
are recognised as reduction in the carrying amount of the investment.

When the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest 
in the associate, including any other unsecured long-term receivables, the 
Group does not recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or 
made payments on behalf of the associate.

Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its associates are 
eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the associates. Unrealised 
losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an 
impairment of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of associates have 
been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted 
by the Group.

(iii)  Joint ventures

Jointly controlled assets or operations
Where the Group has jointly controlled assets or operations, the proportionate 
interests in the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of a joint venture 
activity are incorporated in the financial statements under the appropriate 
headings. Details of joint venture operations and jointly controlled assets are 
set out in note 30(a) and (b).

Joint venture entities
Where the Group has an interest in a joint venture entity, the interest is 
accounted for using the equity method, after initially being recognised at cost. 
Under the equity method, the share of the profits or losses of the joint venture 
entity is recognised in the income statement, and the share of post-acquisition 
movements in reserves is recognised in other comprehensive income. Details of 
joint venture entities are set out in note 30(c).

Profits or losses on transactions establishing the joint venture entity, and 
transactions with the joint venture, are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s 
ownership interest, until such time as they are realised by the joint venture 
entity on consumption or sale. However, a loss on the transaction is recognised 
immediately if the loss provides evidence of a reduction in the net realisable 
value of current assets, or an impairment loss.

(c)  Segment reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal 
reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker. The chief operating 
decision maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing 
performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Executive 
Leadership Team (“ELT”).

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

51

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(d)  Foreign currency and commodity transactions
(i)  Functional and presentation currency

Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group’s entities are 
measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which 
the entity operates (“the functional currency”). The consolidated financial 
statements are presented in Australian dollars, which is QR National Limited’s 
functional and presentation currency.

(ii)  Transactions and balances

Where the Group is exposed to the risk of fluctuations in foreign exchange 
rates and commodity prices, it enters into financial arrangements to reduce this 
exposure. While the value of these financial instruments is subject to risk that 
market rates/prices may change subsequent to acquisition, such changes will 
generally be offset by opposite effects on the items being hedged.

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency 
using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign 
exchange gains and losses, resulting from the settlement of such transactions 
and from the translation at year end exchange rates of monetary assets 
and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies, are recognised in profit or 
loss, except when they are deferred in equity as qualifying cash flow hedges 
and qualifying net investment hedges, or are attributable to part of the net 
investment in a foreign operation.

Foreign exchange gains and losses that relate to borrowings are presented in 
the income statement, within finance costs.  All other foreign exchange gains 
and losses are presented in the income statement on a net basis within other 
income or other expenses.

Non-monetary items that are measured at fair value in a foreign currency 
are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair value was 
determined. Translation differences on assets and liabilities carried at fair  
value are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss. For example, translation 
differences on non-monetary assets and liabilities, such as equities held at 
fair value through profit or loss, is recognised in profit or loss as part of the fair 
value gain or loss, and translation differences on non-monetary assets, such as 
equities classified as available-for-sale financial assets, are recognised in other 
comprehensive income.

(e)  Revenue recognition
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or 
receivable. Amounts disclosed as revenue are net of returns, trade allowances, 
rebates, and amounts collected on behalf of third parties.

The Group recognises revenue when the amount of revenue can be reliably 
measured, it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the entity, 
and specific criteria have been met for each of the Group’s activities as 
described below. The Group bases its estimates on historical results, taking  
into consideration the type of customer, the type of transaction, and the 
specifics of each arrangement.

Revenue is recognised for the major business activities as follows:

(i)  Services revenue

Services revenue comprises revenue earned from the provision of the  
following services:

•       Track access

•       Freight transport

•       Other services revenue.

The Group also has operations that provide construction and engineering services 
that are substantially internal to the Group and eliminate on consolidation.

Track access

Access revenue generated from the regulated rail network Central Queensland 
Coal Network (“CQCN”) is recognised as services are provided, and is calculated 
on a number of operating parameters such as the tonnage hauled, and applied 
to regulator-approved tariffs. The tariff is determined by the total maximum 
allowable revenue, applied to the regulatory approved annual tonnage forecast.

Where annual actual tonnages railed are less than the annual tonnage 
forecast, an annual take or pay mechanism may become operative. A variable 
component of take or pay may also be applied where tonnage forecasts do not 
meet certain consecutive monthly thresholds. The take or pay portion of 
access revenue is recognised in the year the contractual railings were not achieved.

In addition, access revenue is subject to a revenue cap mechanism that serves 
to ensure the network recovers its maximum allowable revenue over the 
regulatory period, such that where actual tonnages railed are less than the 
regulatory approved tonnage forecast, the revenue shortfall (net of take or pay) 
is recovered in subsequent years, and conversely, where actual tonnages railed 
are greater, the excess revenue received is refunded through the access tariffs  
in subsequent years. The majority of under or over recovery in access tariffs  
(net of take or pay charges) are recognised as revenue in the second year 
following the period in which the contractual railings were not achieved in 
accordance with the regulatory framework.

Freight transport

Revenue from freight transport services is calculated based on the rates  
agreed with customer on a tonnes per delivery basis, either by way of  
long-term contract or on an ad-hoc basis. Revenue is recognised once the 
service has been provided.

In some circumstances, the Group is able to recover extra charges where the 
revenue receivable (based on tonnage hauled and agreed price) falls below 
minimum levels under contractual arrangements with customers. These 
additional revenues include Deficit Tonnage Charges (“DTC”). Recognition 
of DTC revenue is considered on a contract-by-contract basis, and generally 
recognised in the period following that in which the service was due to be 
provided (where the customer elects to pay the charges rather than to reduce 
future tonnage entitlements).

Other services revenue

Revenue includes Transport Service Contract (“TSC”) payments received from 
Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads for some specific rail 
and road-based regional freight services and livestock transportation services. 
Base amounts receivable under the TSC (regional freight and livestock) are 
recognised on a straight-line basis over the term of the contract. Additional 
payments are recognised when the revenue can be measured reliably on a 
‘stage of completion’ basis over the term of the agreement. Refer to note 5 for 
details related to TSC revenue recognised in the financial statements.

(ii)  Other revenue

Revenue from other service works is recognised by reference to the contractual 
entitlement.

52

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(e)  Revenue recognition (continued)
(ii)  Other revenue (continued)

Access facilitation deeds for mine-specific infrastructure

The Group builds mine-specific infrastructure for customers and provides  
access to those clients under access facilitation deeds. In substance, charges 
under the deeds comprise capital charges and interest charges (where the 
Group finances the assets). The capital charges are recognised on a straight-
line basis over the term of the access facilitation deed, while the interest 
charges are accrued in accordance with the contractual terms of the access 
facilitation deed arrangements. Where the customer prepays the future charges, 
the amounts received are recognised as deferred income and recognised within 
income, on a straight-line basis over the term of the access facilitation deed.

Liquidated damages

Liquidated damages occur when contractors fail to meet the key performance 
indicators set out in their contract with the Group. Income resulting from 
claims for liquidated damages is recognised as other income when all 
performance obligations are met (including when a contractual entitlement 
exists), it can be reliably measured (including the impact of the receipt, if any, 
on the underlying asset’s carrying value) and it is probable that the economic 
benefits will flow to the Group.

(f)  Other income
(i)  Disposal of assets

The gain or loss on disposal of assets is recognised at the date the significant 
risks and rewards of ownership of the asset passes to the buyer, usually when 
the purchaser takes delivery of the assets. The gain or loss on disposal is 
calculated as the difference between the carrying amount of the asset at the 
time of disposal and the net proceeds on disposal and is recognised as other 
income or expenses in the income statement.

(ii)  Interest income

Interest income is recognised using the effective interest method.

(iii)  Government grants

Grants from the government are recognised at their fair value, where there is a 
reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and the Group will comply 
with all attached conditions.

Government grants relating to costs are deferred, and recognised in the income 
statement over the period necessary to match those with the costs that they 
are intended to compensate.

(iv)  Dividends

Dividends are recognised as revenue when the right to receive payment  
is established.

(v)  Fuel Rebates

Fuel rebates are recognised as revenue during the period in which they relate.

(g)  Income tax
The income tax expense or revenue for the period is the tax payable on the 
current period’s taxable income, based on the applicable income tax rate for 
each jurisdiction, adjusted for the changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities 
attributable to temporary differences and to unused tax losses.

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws 
enacted (or substantively enacted) at the end of the reporting period in the 
countries where the Group’s subsidiaries and associates operate and generate 
taxable income. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax 
returns, with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject 
to interpretation. It establishes provisions, where appropriate, on the basis of 
amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.

Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary 
differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their 
carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, deferred 
tax liabilities are not recognised if they arise from the initial recognition of 
goodwill. Deferred income tax is also not accounted for if it arises from initial 
recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business 
combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting 
nor taxable profit or loss. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates 
(and laws) that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the end of the 
reporting period, and are expected to apply when the related deferred income 
tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.

Deferred tax assets are recognised for deductible temporary differences and 
unused tax losses only if it is probable that future taxable amounts will be 
available to utilise those temporary differences and losses.

Deferred tax liabilities and assets are not recognised for temporary differences 
between the carrying amount and tax bases of investments in foreign 
operations where the company is able to control the timing of the reversal 
of the temporary differences, and it is probable that the differences will not 
reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable 
right to offset current tax assets and liabilities, and when the deferred tax 
balances relate to the same taxation authority. Current tax assets and tax 
liabilities are offset where the entity has a legally enforceable right to offset, 
and intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the 
liability simultaneously.

To the extent that an item is recognised directly in equity, the deferred tax is 
also recognised directly in equity.

(h)  Leases
Leases on property, plant and equipment

Leases of property, plant and equipment, where the Group, as lessee, has 
substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership, are classified as finance 
leases. Finance leases are capitalised at the leases inception at the fair value 
of the leased property or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease 
payments. The corresponding rental obligations, net of finance charges, are 
included in other short-term and long-term payables. Each lease payment is 
allocated between the liability and finance cost. The finance cost is charged to 
profit or loss over the lease period, so as to produce a constant periodic rate of 
interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period. The property, 
plant and equipment acquired under finance leases is depreciated over the 
asset’s useful life or over the shorter of the asset’s useful life and the lease 
term if there is no reasonable certainty that the Group will obtain ownership at 
the end of the lease term.

Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership 
are not transferred to the Group as lessee are classified as operating leases. 
Payments made under operating leases (net of any incentives received from 
the lessor) are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over 
the period of the lease.

Rental revenue from operating leases where the Group is a lessor is recognised 
as income on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Where a sale and lease-
back transaction has occurred, the lease is classified as either a finance lease or 
operating lease, based on the factors described above.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

53

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(h)  Leases (continued)
Cross-border leases

The cross-border lease arrangement does not, in substance, involve a lease. 
The arrangement involves transferring the legal title of the rollingstock to the 
lessor, but the Group retains the risk and rewards incidental to ownership of 
the rollingstock and enjoys substantially the same rights to its use as before 
the arrangement. Under the cross-border lease arrangement, the rollingstock 
cannot be sold without the consent of the lessor. The rollingstock is depreciated 
based on its estimated useful life, as the Group intends to re-acquire the legal 
title of these assets. Benefits received from the cross-border lease arrangement 
are recognised as income at the inception of the arrangement.

Where it is necessary under the cross-border lease provisions to terminate 
part or all of a lease due to damaged or disposed leased assets, and there is a 
difference between the value of the owned asset and the termination cost of 
the leased asset, the net book value of the damaged asset is recognised in the 
income statement as loss (or gain) on disposal, and termination costs incurred 
are recognised in the income statement as other expenses.

(i)  Business combinations
The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for all business 
combinations, regardless of whether equity instruments or other assets are 
acquired. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary 
comprises the fair values of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred, and 
the equity interests issued by the Group. The consideration transferred also 
includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent 
consideration arrangement, and the fair value of any pre-existing equity 
interest in the subsidiary. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. 
Identifiable assets acquired, and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed 
in a business combination are, with limited exceptions, measured initially at 
their fair values at the acquisition date. On an acquisition-by-acquisition basis, 
the Group recognises any non-controlling interest in the acquiree, either at fair 
value or at the non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquiree’s 
net identifiable assets.

The excess of the consideration transferred, and the amount of any non-
controlling interest in the acquiree over the fair value of the net identifiable 
assets acquired, is recorded as goodwill. If those amounts are less than the 
fair value of the net identifiable assets of the subsidiary acquired, and the 
measurement of all amounts has been reviewed, the difference is recognised 
directly in profit or loss as a bargain purchase.

Where settlement of any part of cash consideration is deferred, the amounts 
payable in the future are discounted to their present value as at the date 
of exchange. The discount rate used is the entity’s incremental borrowing 
rate, being the rate at which a similar borrowing could be obtained from an 
independent financier under comparable terms and conditions.

Contingent consideration is classified either as equity or a financial liability. 
Amounts classified as a financial liability are subsequently remeasured to fair 
value, with changes in fair value recognised in profit or loss.

Impairment of assets

(j) 
Goodwill, and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life, are not 
subject to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment, or more 
frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate they might be 
impaired. Other assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes 
in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying 
amount exceeds its recoverable amount. For the purposes of assessing 
impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are 
separately identifiable cash flows, largely independent of the cash flows from 
other assets or groups of assets (cash-generating units).

The recoverable amount is the greater of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell 
and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are 
discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects 
current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific 
to the asset.

Impairment losses are recognised in the income statement. After the 
recognition of an impairment loss, the depreciation (amortisation) charge for 
the asset is adjusted in future periods, to allocate the asset’s revised carrying 
amount, less its residual value (if any), on a systematic basis over its remaining 
useful life. Impairment losses, if any, recognised in respect of cash-generating 
units, are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill 
allocated to cash-generating units, and then, to reduce the carrying amount  
of other assets in the unit on a pro-rata basis.

An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed. In respect of other 
non-financial assets, impairment losses recognised in prior periods are assessed 
at each reporting date for any indications that the loss has decreased or no 
longer exists. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent the asset’s 
carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been 
determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had 
been recognised.

(k)  Cash and cash equivalents
For the purpose of presentation in the statement of cash flow, cash and 
cash equivalents include cash on hand, deposits held ‘at call’ with financial 
institutions, and other short-term, highly liquid investments with original 
maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts 
of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

(l)  Trade and other receivables
Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value, and 
subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, 
less provision for impairment. Trade receivables generally have credit terms 
ranging from seven to 31 days. They are presented as current assets, unless 
collection is not expected for more than 12 months after the reporting date.

Collectability of trade and other receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. 
Debts which are known to be uncollectible are written off by reducing the 
carrying amount directly. A provision for impairment of trade and other 
receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Group  
will not be able to collect all amounts due, according to the original terms  
of the receivables.

Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability that the debtor will 
enter bankruptcy or financial reorganisation, and default or delinquency in 
payments (more than 90 days overdue) are considered indicators that the 
trade receivable is impaired. The amount of the impairment allowance is the 
difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of 
estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. 
Cash flows relating to short-term receivables are not discounted if the effect of 
discounting is immaterial.

The amount of the impairment loss is recognised in the income statement 
within other expenses. When a trade or other receivable for which an 
impairment allowance had been recognised becomes uncollectible in a 
subsequent period, it is written off against the allowance account. Subsequent 
recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against other 
expenses in the income statement.

54

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(m)  Inventories
Inventories include items held in centralised stores, workshops, and 
infrastructure and rollingstock depots, and are stated at the lower of cost and 
net realisable value. Cost comprises the cost of purchase, cost of conversion, 
and other costs incurred in bringing the inventories to its present location  
and condition. Cost is determined predominantly on an average cost basis.

Items expected to be consumed after more than one year are classified as  
non-current.

The provision for inventory obsolescence is based on assessments by 
management of particular inventory classes, and relates specifically to 
infrastructure and rollingstock maintenance items. The amount of the provision 
is based on a proportion of the value of damaged stock, slow-moving stock, 
and stock that has become obsolete during the reporting period.

(n)  Investments and other financial assets

Classification
The Group classifies its non-derivative financial assets in the following 
categories: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, loans and 
receivables, and ‘available-for-sale’ financial assets. The classification depends  
on the purpose for which the investments were acquired. Management 
determines the classification of its investments at initial recognition.

(i)   Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are financial assets held for 
trading. A financial asset is classified in this category if acquired principally 
for the purpose of selling in the short term. Derivatives are classified as held 
for trading unless they are designated as hedges. Assets in this category are 
classified as current assets if they are expected to be settled within 12 months, 
otherwise they are classified as non-current.

(ii)  Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or 
determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They  
are included in current assets, except for those with maturities greater than  
12 months after the reporting period, which are classified as non-current  
assets. Loans and receivables are included in trade and other receivables  
(note 10) in the balance sheet.

Measurement
At initial recognition, the Group measures a financial asset at its fair value 
plus, in the case of a financial asset not at fair value through the income 
statement, transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition 
of the financial asset. Transaction costs of financial assets carried at fair value 
through the income statement are expensed in the income statement.

Loans and receivables are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the 
effective interest method. Available-for-sale financial assets are subsequently 
carried at fair value. Changes in the fair value of other monetary and non-
monetary securities classified as available-for-sale are recognised in equity, 
unless they are impaired.

The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is objective evidence 
that a financial asset (or group of financial assets) are impaired. A financial 
asset (or a group of financial assets) is impaired and impairment losses are 
incurred only if there is objective evidence of impairment, as a result of one 
or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the asset (a “loss 
event”) and that loss event (or events) has an impact on the estimated future 
cash flows of the financial asset (or group of financial assets) that can be 
reliably estimated. In the case of securities classified as available-for-sale, a 
significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of a security below its cost is 
considered as an indicator that the securities are impaired.

Assets carried at amortised cost

For loans and receivables, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference 
between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated 
future cash flow (excluding future credit losses that have not been incurred) 
discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate. The carrying 
amount of the asset is reduced, and the amount of the loss is recognised, in the 
income statement. If a loan has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for 
measuring any impairment loss is the current effective interest rate determined 
under the contract. As a practical expedient, the Group may measure 
impairment on the basis of an instrument’s fair value using an observable 
market price.

If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the impairment loss decreases, 
and the decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring after the 
impairment was recognised (such as an improvement in the debtor’s credit 
rating), the reversal of the previously recognised impairment loss is recognised 
in the income statement.

(iii)  Available-for-sale financial assets

Assets classified as available-for-sale

Available-for-sale financial assets, comprising principally marketable equity 
securities, are non-derivatives that are either designated in this category or 
not classified in any of the other categories. They are included in non-current 
assets unless the investment matures or management intends to dispose of the 
investment within 12 months of the end of the reporting period. Investments 
are designated as available-for-sale if they do not have fixed maturities and 
fixed or determinable payments and management intends to hold them for the 
medium to long-term.

Recognition and derecognition
Regular purchases and sales of financial assets are recognised on trade date 
being the date on which the Group commits to purchase or sell the asset. 
Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from 
the financial assets have expired or have been transferred and the Group has 
transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership. When securities 
classified as available-for-sale are sold, the accumulated fair value adjustments 
recognised in equity are reclassified to the income statement as gains or losses 
from investment securities.

If there is objective evidence of impairment for available-for-sale financial 
assets, the cumulative loss (measured as the difference between the acquisition 
cost and the current fair value, less any impairment loss on that financial asset 
previously recognised in profit or loss) is removed from equity and recognised 
in the income statement. Impairment losses on equity instruments that are 
recognised in the income statement are not reversed through the income 
statement in a subsequent period.

If the fair value of a debt instrument classified as available-for-sale increases  
in a subsequent period, and the increase can be objectively related to an  
event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised in profit or loss,  
the impairment loss is reversed through profit or loss.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

55

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(o)  Derivatives and hedging activities
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative 
contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to their fair value 
at the end of each reporting period. The method of recognising the resulting 
gain or loss depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging 
instrument and, if so, the nature of the item being hedged.

The Group designates certain derivatives as hedges of the cash flows of 
recognised assets and liabilities and highly probable forecast transactions 
(“cash flow hedges”).

At inception, the Group documents the relationship between hedging 
instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk management objective 
and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. The Group also 
documents its assessment, both at hedge inception and on an ongoing  
basis, of whether the derivatives that is used in hedging transactions have 
been, and will continue to be, highly effective in offsetting future cash flows  
of hedged items.

The full fair value of a hedging derivative is classified as a non-current asset 
or liability when the remaining maturity of the hedged item is more than 
12 months: It is classified as a current asset or liability when the remaining 
maturity of the hedged item is less than 12 months.

(i)  Cash flow hedge

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that 
are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognised in other 
comprehensive income and accumulated in reserves in equity. The gain  
or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the 
income statement in other income or expense.

Amounts accumulated in equity are reclassified to the income statement 
to consumables in the periods when the hedged item affects profit or 
loss. However, when the forecast transaction that is hedged results in the 
recognition of a non-financial asset, the gains and losses previously deferred  
in equity are reclassified from equity and included in the initial measurement 
of the cost or carrying amount of the asset.

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold or terminated, or when a hedge 
no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or 
loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when 
the forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in the income statement in 
consumables. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the 
cumulative gain or loss that was reported in equity is immediately reclassified 
to the income statement.

(ii)  Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting

Certain derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting. Changes 
in fair value of any derivative instrument that does not qualify for hedge 
accounting are recognised immediately in the income statement in other 
income or expense.

(iii)  Embedded derivatives

Through the Group’s purchase and sale contracts, it is possible that embedded 
derivatives have been entered into. An embedded derivative will cause some 
or all of the cash flows of the purchase or sale contract (i.e. the host contract) 
to be modified by reference to a variable, such as a foreign exchange rate or a 
commodity price.

Embedded derivatives are separated from the host contract and accounted 
for as a stand-alone derivative if the economic characteristics and risks of the 
embedded derivatives are not closely related to those of the host contract.

(p)  Property, plant and equipment
(i)  Methodology for valuation of fixed assets

Buildings, plant and equipment, and rollingstock

Buildings, plant and equipment, and rollingstock are carried at cost less 
accumulated depreciation. Cost includes expenditure that is directly  
attributable to the acquisition of the asset or the fair value of the other 
consideration given to acquire an asset at the time of its acquisition or 
construction. Cost may also include interest and transfers from equity of any 
gains or losses on qualifying cash flow hedges of foreign currency purchases  
of property, plant and equipment, and may include capitalised interest.

Land

Land is carried at cost. As the Transport Infrastructure Act 1994 stipulates that 
corridor land is owned by the State, only non corridor land owned by the Group 
is recorded in the financial statements. Ownership of corridor land is with the 
Department of Environment and Resource Management, on behalf of the 
State. This land is leased to the Department of Transport and Main Roads and 
subsequently sub leased to QR Network Pty Ltd under two separate subleases, 
each with a rental of $1.00 per year if demanded. The subleases each expire on 
30 June 2109.

The land subleases will automatically be renewed for a period of 99 years 
if the infrastructure leases are renewed for that period (refer leased coal 
infrastructure below).

Leased property, plant and equipment

Leases of property, plant and equipment where the Group, as lessee, has 
substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership, are classified as finance 
leases. Assets held under finance leases are recorded at the lower of the net 
present value of the minimum lease payments or the fair value of the leased 
asset at the inception of the lease. Each lease payment is allocated between 
the liability and finance cost. The finance cost is charged to profit or loss on an 
effective interest rate basis.

Owned infrastructure

Infrastructure assets are transferred from Assets under construction once 
fully constructed and available for use. They are carried at cost and represent 
capitalised expenditures that are directly related to capital projects and may 
include materials, labour and equipment, in addition to an allocable portion of 
indirect costs that clearly relate to a particular project that will provide future 
economic benefit and remain within the control of the Group.

Leased coal infrastructure

Coal infrastructure assets are owned by (a) the State, with respect to the  
Central Queensland Coal Network and (b) Queensland Rail, with respect to  
the North Coast Line (each referred to as the Infrastructure Lessors). Under 
each infrastructure lease, the infrastructure is leased to QR Network Pty Ltd,  
a controlled entity. The term of each of the leases is 99 years (at a peppercorn 
rate of $1 per year), unless the Infrastructure Lessor exercises an option to 
extend its lease for a further 99 years. The notice period for the Infrastructure 
Lessor to renew or allow expiry of the lease is not less than 20 years prior 
to the end of the 99 year term. To the extent that the lease expires at the 
end of 99 years, the Infrastructure Lessor will pay QR Network Pty Ltd the 
fair market value of the infrastructure assets, including the infrastructure 
existing on commencement of the lease, as well as any railway assets added 
during the lease term as are reasonably required to enable the infrastructure 
to be operated as a fully functioning railway network. As the assets are not 
considered to be providing a public service, the Group’s economic interest in 
the assets is accounted for as property, plant and equipment.

56

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

The depreciation and amortisation rates used during the year were based on 
the following range of useful lives:

(p)  Property, plant and equipment (continued)
(i)  Methodology for valuation of fixed assets (continued) 

Assets under construction

Assets under construction represents the cost of fixed assets currently under 
construction and includes the cost of all materials used in construction, direct 
labour, site preparation, interest, foreign currency gains and losses incurred 
where applicable, and an appropriate proportion of variable and fixed 
overheads.

Costs of assets under construction are only capitalised when it is probable that 
future economic benefits associated with the asset will flow to the Group and 
the costs can be measured reliably.

(ii)  Subsequent costs

Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognised 
as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future 
economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost 
of the item can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of any component 
accounted for as a separate asset is derecognised when replaced. All other 
repairs and maintenance are charged to the income statement during the 
reporting period in which they are incurred.

(iii)  Depreciation and amortisation

Assets are depreciated or amortised from the date of acquisition, or, in respect 
of internally constructed or manufactured assets, from the time an asset is 
completed and held ready for use.

Buildings, infrastructure, rollingstock, plant and equipment are depreciated 
using the straight-line method to allocate their costs, net of their residual 
values, over their estimated useful lives. Motor vehicles are depreciated using 
the diminishing value basis (percentages range from 13.6% to 35.0%). Land 
and assets under construction are not depreciated.

Assets controlled by the Group under finance leases are amortised over the 
useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the 
shorter of either the unexpired period of the lease or the estimated useful lives 
of the improvements.

Where assets have separately identifiable components that are subject to 
regular replacement, these components are assigned useful lives distinct from 
the asset to which they relate. Any expenditure that increases the originally 
assessed capacity or service potential of an asset is capitalised, and the new 
depreciable amount is depreciated over the remaining life of the asset.

The Group builds mine-specific infrastructure for customers and provides access 
to those clients under access facilitation deeds. Infrastructure controlled by 
the Group under these deeds is depreciated over the term of the deed, except 
where economic benefits are expected to flow to the Group after the end of the 
term of the deed.

– Owned and leased infrastructure, including: 

Tracks 

Track turnouts 

Ballast 

Civil works 

Bridges 

Electrification 

Field signals 

– Buildings 

– Rollingstock, including: 

Locomotives 

  Wagons 

– Plant and equipment 

– Leased property 

30–45 years  

20–25 years  

8–20 years  

20–100 years  

50–100 years  

20–50 years  

15–40 years 

10–40 years 

8–40 years 

25–35 years 

25–35 years 

3–20 years 

3–40 years

The depreciation and amortisation rates are reviewed annually and adjusted if 
appropriate, refer note 2(iv). An asset’s carrying amount is written down to its 
recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated 
recoverable amount.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with the 
carrying amount and are recognised in the income statement.

(q)  Voluntary change in accounting policy
The financial statements have been prepared on the basis of a retrospective 
application of a voluntary change in accounting policy relating to mechanised 
Ballast undercutting.

Ballast is the layer of crushed rock or gravel upon which the railway track is laid 
and ballast undercutting is the renewal of this ballast that supports the track.

The new ballast undercutting accounting policy is to capitalise all mechanised 
ballast undercutting costs as separate identifiable assets with a useful life of 8 
years (20 years for spur line).

The previous accounting policy was to charge ballast undercutting expenditure 
against the profit and loss as incurred. The new accounting policy was adopted 
on 1 July 2011 and has been applied retrospectively from 1 September 2008 
onwards, as it was not practicable to apply for periods prior to 1 September 2008.

The revised policy will now align with global industry practice and hence makes 
benchmark comparisons with industry peers more relevant and meaningful.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

57

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(q)  Voluntary change in accounting policy (continued)
The tables below show the impact of the change in accounting policy:

Consolidated balance sheet (extract)

Property, plant and equipment

Deferred tax liabilities

Net assets

Retained earnings

Total equity

30 June 
2011
$m

Increase/ 
(Decrease)
$m

30 June 2011 
(Restated)
$m

30 June 
2010
$m

Increase/ 
(Decrease)
$m

30 June 2010 
(Restated)
$m

8,275.7

(463.5)

6,991.7

882.1

6,991.7

49.6

(14.9)

34.7

34.7

34.7

8,325.2

7,383.8

(478.4)

(693.3)

7,026.4

2,684.0

916.8

619.0

7,026.4

2,684.0

33.3

(10.0)

23.3

23.3

23.3

7,417.0

(703.3)

2,707.3

642.3

2,707.3

Balance sheet items, other than those mentioned above, were not affected by the change in accounting policy.

30 June 2011

Profit 
Increase/ 
(Decrease)
$m

2011 
(Restated)
$m

2011
$m

30 June 2012

Before 
voluntary 
change in 
policy
$m

Profit 
Increase/ 
(Decrease)
$m

2012
$m

Consolidated income statement (extract)

Consolidated income statement (extract)

Depreciation and 
amortisation expense

Consumables

(446.4)               

(10.8)

(457.2)

Depreciation and  
amortisation expense

(1,358.0)

  30.8 

(1,327.2)

Consumables

(447.6)

(16.1)

(463.7)

(1,434.8)

34.7

(1,400.1)

Other expenses                                                                                            

(60.7)                

Other income

Profit before income tax

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit for the year

97.6

67.5

282.0

349.5

(2.1)              

(1.6)                

16.3

(4.9)

11.4 

 (62.8)

96.0

83.8

277.1

360.9

Other expenses

Profit before income tax

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit for the year

(38.3)

 539.3

(108.9)

430.4

(3.6) 

15.0

(4.5)

10.5

(41.9)

554.3

(113.4)

440.9

Basic and diluted earnings per share for the prior year have also been restated. 
The amount of the adjustment for both basic and diluted earnings per share 
was an increase of 0.5 cents per share.

The change in accounting policy has resulted in both the basic and diluted 
earnings per share increase by 0.4 cents per share.

The impact of the change in accounting policy on the current year is as 
follows: 

30 June 2012

Before 
voluntary 
change in 
policy
$m

Increase/ 
(Decrease)
$m

Consolidated balance sheet (extract)

Property, plant and equipment

9,022.2

Deferred tax liabilities

Net assets

Retained earnings

Total equity

(534.1)            

7,283.7

1,166.6

7,283.7

15.0

(4.5)

10.5

10.5

10.5

2012
$m

9,037.2

(538.6)

7,294.2

1,177.1

7,294.2

Balance sheet items, other than those mentioned above, were not affected by 
the change in accounting policy.

(r)  Intangible assets
(i) 

 Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase consideration for an acquisition 
over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets of the 
acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions of 
subsidiaries is included in intangible assets. Goodwill is not amortised but is 
tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that it might be impaired, and is carried at cost less 
accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity 
include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold.

Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment 
testing. The allocation is made to those cash-generating units (or groups 
of cash-generating units) that are expected to benefit from the business 
combination in which the goodwill arose, identified according to operating 
segments.

58

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(r)  Intangible assets (continued)
(ii)  IT development and software

Software (mainly comprising the SAP development costs) has a finite useful 
life and is carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment. 
Amortisation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated 
useful life which varies from 3 to 11 years.

(iii)  Key customer contracts

Key customer contracts have a finite useful life and are carried at cost  
less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses. Amortisation is  
calculated using the straight-line method over the useful life, which varies  
from 3 to 6 years.

(iv)  Research and development

Research expenditure is recognised as an expense as incurred. Costs incurred 
on development projects (relating to the design and testing of new or 
improved products) are recognised as intangible assets when it is probable 
that the project will, after considering its commercial and technical feasibility, 
be completed and generate future economic benefits, and its costs can 
be measured reliably. The expenditure capitalised comprises all directly 
attributable costs, including costs of materials, services, direct labour and an 
appropriate proportion of overheads. Other development expenditures that do 
not meet these criteria are recognised as an expense as incurred. Development 
costs previously recognised as an expense are not recognised as an asset in a 
subsequent period. Capitalised development costs are recorded as intangible 
assets and amortised from the point at which the asset is ready for use on a 
straight-line basis over its useful life.

(s)  Trade and other payables
These amounts represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the 
Group prior to the end of financial year, which are unpaid. The amounts are 
unsecured and are usually paid within 30 days or within the terms set by the 
supplier. Trade and other payables are presented as current liabilities. They are 
recognised initially at their fair value and subsequently measured at amortised 
cost using the effective interest method.

(t)  Borrowings and borrowing costs
(i)  Borrowings

Debt is drawn from a syndicated debt arrangement and is initially recognised 
at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently 
measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Interest costs are calculated using the effective interest rate method. The 
effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash 
payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument. 
Interest is accrued monthly and paid on maturity. Commitment and agency 
fees are accrued monthly and paid quarterly.

Syndicated facility establishment costs have been capitalised and are 
amortised over the life of the facility. 

Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the Group has an 
unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months 
after the reporting date.

(ii)  Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs which are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction 
or production of a material qualifying asset are capitalised during the period 
of time that is required to complete and prepare the asset for its intended use 
or sale. A qualifying asset is an internally funded asset that necessarily takes 
a substantial period of time to be prepared for its intended use or sale. The 
rate used to determine the amount of borrowing costs to be capitalised is the 
interest rate applicable to the Group’s outstanding borrowings during the year. 
Other borrowing costs are expensed.

(u)  Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive 
obligation as a result of past events, it is probable that an outflow of resources 
will be required to settle the obligation and the amount has been reliably 
estimated. Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses.

Provisions are measured at the present value of management’s best estimate 
of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the reporting 
date. The discount rate used to determine the present value is a pre-tax rate 
that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the 
risks specific to the liability. The increase in the provision resulting from the 
passage of time is recognised in finance costs.

In accordance with Group’s environmental sustainability policy, and applicable 
legal and constructive obligations, a provision for land rehabilitation in respect 
of contaminated land is recognised when an obligation for rehabilitation is 
identified.

(v)  Employee benefits
(i)  Short-term obligations

Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits, annual 
leave and leave loading are recognised as current liabilities. These liabilities are 
in respect of employees’ services up to the reporting date and are measured 
at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled plus related 
on-costs.

(ii)  Other long-term employee benefit obligations

Liabilities for long-service leave, where employees have completed the required 
period of service, or are entitled to pro-rata payments, are recognised as current 
liabilities. The remaining unvested liabilities are included as non-current liabilities.

The liability for long-service leave is measured using the present value of 
the expected future payments to be made in respect of services provided by 
employees up to the reporting date. Consideration is given to expected future 
wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of 
service. Expected future non-current payments are discounted using market 
yields at the reporting date on Commonwealth government bonds with terms to 
maturity that match, as closely as possible, the estimated future cash outflows.

(iii)  Retirement allowance

Retirement allowance is payable to employees who fulfil the following 
requirements:

• 

Employees who retire or who are paid according to a Voluntary 
Redundancy Scheme or Medical Separation;

• 

are not members of an accumulation super fund; and

•  were employed prior to 1 February 1995.

Liabilities for retirement allowance for employees who have fulfilled these 
requirements are recognised as current liabilities. The remaining liabilities are 
included within employee benefits and recognised as non-current liabilities. 
The non-current liability for retirement allowance is measured at the present 
value of expected future payments to be made in respect of services provided 
by qualifying employees. Consideration is given to expected future wage and 
salary levels, experience of the departure of qualifying employees and periods 
of service. Expected future payments are discounted using market yields at 
the reporting date on Commonwealth government bonds with maturities that 
match, as closely as possible, to the estimated future cash outflows.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

59

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(v)  Employee benefits (continued)
(iv)  Share-based payments

The fair value of rights granted under the Performance Rights Plan is 
recognised as an employee benefits expense with a corresponding increase in 
equity. The total amount to be expensed is determined by reference to the fair 
value of the rights granted, which includes any market performance conditions 
and the impact of any non-vesting conditions, but excludes the impact of any 
service and non-market performance vesting conditions.

Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number 
of rights that are expected to vest. The total expense is recognised over the 
vesting period, which is the period over which all of the specified vesting 
conditions are to be satisfied. At the end of each period, the entity revises  
its estimates of the number of rights that are expected to vest based on the 
non-marketing vesting conditions. It recognises the impact of the revision  
to original estimates, if any, in profit or loss, with a corresponding adjustment 
to equity.

The Group settles the share-based compensation by making on-market 
purchases of the company’s ordinary shares.

(v)  Bonus plans

The Group recognises a liability and an expense for bonuses, based on 
a formula that takes into consideration the Group and individual key 
performance indicators, including profit attributable  to the Company’s 
shareholders after certain adjustments. The Group recognises a provision 
where contractually obliged or where there is a past practice that has  
created a constructive obligation.

(vi)  Sick leave

Sick leave is not provided for on the grounds that it is non-vesting and  
on average, no more than the annual entitlement is taken each year.

(vii)  Superannuation

Contributions are expensed as they are made.

The Group pays an employer subsidy to the Government Superannuation 
Office in respect of employees who are contributors to the Public Sector 
Superannuation (QSuper) scheme.

Employer contributions to the QSuper Defined Benefit Fund are determined 
by the State of Queensland Treasurer, having regard to advice from the State 
Actuary. The primary obligation to fund the defined benefits obligations 
are that of the State. However, the Treasurer has the discretion to request 
contributions from employers that contribute to the defined benefit category of 
QSuper. No liability is recognised for accruing superannuation benefits, as this 
liability is held on a Whole of Government basis and reported in the Whole of 
Government financial statements. The State Actuary performs a full actuarial 
valuation of the assets and liabilities of the fund on a triennial basis. The latest 
valuation was completed as at 30 June 2010, and the State Actuary found 
the fund was in surplus from a Whole of Government perspective. In addition, 
from late 2007, the Defined Benefit Fund was closed to new members, so any 
potential future deficit would be diluted as membership decreases. Accordingly, 
no liability/asset is recognised for the Group’s share of any potential deficit/
surplus of the Super Defined Benefit Fund of QSuper.

The Group also makes superannuation guarantee payments into the QSuper 
Accumulation Fund (Non-Contributory) and QSuper Accumulation Fund 
(Contributory) administered by the Government Superannuation Office, and to 
other complying Superannuation Funds designated by employees nominating 
Choice of Fund.

(w)  Contributed equity
Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable 
to the issue of new shares are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from 
the proceeds.

Where any Group company purchases the Company’s equity instruments, for 
example as the result of a share-based payment plan, the consideration paid, 
including any directly attributable incremental costs (net of income taxes) is 
deducted from equity attributable to the owners of QR National Limited as 
treasury shares until the shares are cancelled or reissued. Where such ordinary 
shares are subsequently reissued, any consideration received (net of any 
directly attributable incremental transaction costs and the related income tax 
effects) is included in equity attributable to the owners of QR National Limited.

(x)  Dividends
Provision is made for the amount of any dividend declared, being appropriately 
authorised and no longer at the discretion of the entity, on or before the end of 
the financial year but not distributed at reporting date.

(y)  Earnings per share
(i)  Basic earnings per share

Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing:

• 

• 

the profit attributable to owners of the Company, excluding any costs of 
servicing equity other than ordinary shares

by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during 
the financial year, adjusted for bonus elements in ordinary shares issued 
during the year and excluding treasury shares.

(ii)  Diluted earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share adjusts the figures used in the determination of 
basic earnings per share to take into account:

• 

• 

the after income tax effect of interest and other financing costs associated 
with dilutive potential ordinary shares; and

the weighted average number of additional ordinary shares that would 
have been outstanding, assuming the conversion of all dilutive potential 
ordinary shares.

(z)  Goods and Services Tax (“GST”)
Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of associated 
GST, unless the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian 
Tax Office (“ATO”). In this case, the GST is recognised as part of the cost of 
acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense.

Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of the amount of GST receivable 
or payable. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO is 
included with other receivables or payables in the balance sheet.

Cash flows are presented in the cash flow statement on a gross basis. The  
GST components of cash flows arising from investing or financing activities 
which are recoverable from, or payable to the ATO, are presented as operating 
cash flows.

QR National Limited and its subsidiaries are grouped for GST purposes. 
Therefore, any inter-company transactions within the Group do not attract GST.

(aa) Rounding of amounts
The Company is of a kind referred to in Class Order 98/100, issued by the 
Australian Securities and Investments Commission, relating to the ‘rounding 
off’ of amounts in the Financial Report. Amounts in the Financial Report have 
been rounded off in accordance with that Class Order to the nearest hundred 
thousand dollars, unless otherwise indicated.

60

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(ab) New accounting standards and interpretations
Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published 
that are not mandatory for 30 June 2012 reporting periods, and have not 
yet been applied in the financial statements. The Group’s assessment of the 
impact of these new standards and interpretations is set out below.

(i) 

 AASB 9 Financial Instruments, AASB 2009 11 Amendments to Australian 
Accounting Standards arising from AASB 9 and AASB 2010-7 Amendments 
to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 9 (December 2010) 
(effective from 1 January 2013)

AASB 9 Financial Instruments addresses the classification, measurement and 
derecognition of financial assets and financial liabilities. The standard is not 
applicable until 1 January 2013 but is available for early adoption. When 
adopted, the standard will affect, in particular the Group accounting for its 
available-for-sale financial assets, since AASB 9 only permits the recognition 
of fair value gains and losses in other comprehensive income if they relate to 
equity investments that are not held for trading.

There will be no impact on the Group accounting for financial liabilities, as 
the new requirements only affect the accounting for financial liabilities that 
are designated at fair value through profit or loss. The derecognition rules 
have been transferred from AASB 139 Financial Instruments: Recognition 
and Measurement and have not been changed. The Group does not intend to 
adopt the new standard before their operative date. They would therefore be 
first applied in the financial statements for the annual reporting period ending 
30 June 2014.

(ii) 

 AASB 10 Consolidated Financial Statements, AASB 11 Joint Arrangements, 
AASB 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities, revised AASB 127 
Separate Financial Statements and AASB 128 Investments in Associates 
and Joint Ventures and AASB 2011-7 Amendments to Australian 
Accounting Standards arising from the Consolidation and Joint 
Arrangements Standards (effective 1 January 2013)

In August 2011, the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) issued 
a suite of five new and amended standards, which address the accounting 
for joint arrangements, consolidated financial statements and associated 
disclosures.

AASB 10 replaces all of the guidance on control and consolidation in AASB 
127 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements, and Interpretation 12 
Consolidation – Special Purpose Entities. The core principle that a consolidated 
entity presents a parent and its subsidiaries as if they are a single economic 
entity remains unchanged, as do the mechanics of consolidation. However,  
the standard introduces a single definition of control that applies to all entities. 
It focuses on the need to have both power and rights or exposure to variable 
returns before control is present. Power is the current ability to direct the 
activities that significantly influence returns. Returns must vary and can be 
positive, negative or both. There is also new guidance on participating and 
protective rights and on agent/principal relationships. The Group does not 
expect the new standard to have a substantial impact on its composition.

AASB 11 introduces a principles based approach to accounting for joint 
arrangements. The focus is no longer on the legal structure of joint 
arrangements, but rather on how rights and obligations are shared by the 
parties to the joint arrangement. Based on the assessment of rights and 
obligations, a joint arrangement will be classified as either a joint operation or 
a joint venture. Joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method, and 
the choice to proportionately consolidate will no longer be permitted.  
Parties to a joint operation will account their share of revenues, expenses, 

assets and liabilities in much the same way as under the previous standard.  
AASB 11 also provides guidance for parties that participate in joint 
arrangements but do not share joint control. The Group does not expect the 
new standard to have any significant impact on its financial statements.

AASB 12 sets out the required disclosures for entities reporting under the 
two new standards, AASB 10 and AASB 11, and replaces the disclosure 
requirements currently found in AASB 128. Application of this standard by 
the Group will not affect any of the amounts recognised in the financial 
statements, but will impact the type of information disclosed in relation to  
the Group’s investments.

AASB 127 is renamed Separate Financial Statements and is now a standard 
dealing solely with separate financial statements. Application of this standard 
by the Group will not affect any of the amounts recognised in the financial 
statements.

Amendments to AASB 128 provide clarification that an entity continues to 
apply the equity method and does not remeasure its retained interest as part 
of ownership changes where a joint venture becomes an associate, and vice 
versa. The amendments also introduce a ‘partial disposal’ concept. There will 
be no impact on the Group’s financial statements from these amendments.

The Group does not intend to adopt the new standards before their operative 
date. They would therefore be first applied in the financial statements for the 
annual reporting period ending 30 June 2014.

(iii)   AASB 13 Fair Value Measurement and AASB 2011-8 Amendments  

to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 13 (effective  
1 January 2013)

AASB 13 was released in September 2011. It explains how to measure fair 
value and aims to enhance fair value disclosures. The Group does not use fair 
value measurements extensively. It is therefore unlikely that the new rules will 
have a significant impact on any of the amounts recognised in the financial 
statements. However, application of the new standard will impact the type of 
information disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements. 
The Group does not intend to adopt the new standard before its operative 
date, which means that it would be first applied in the annual reporting period 
ending 30 June 2014.

(iv)   Revised AASB 119 Employee Benefits, AASB 2011-10 Amendments to 
Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 119 (September 
2011) and AASB 2011-11 Amendments to AASB 119 (September 2011) 
arising from Reduced Disclosure Requirements (effective 1 January 2013)

In September 2011, the AASB released a revised standard on accounting for 
employee benefits. It requires the recognition of all remeasurements of defined 
benefit liabilities/assets immediately in other comprehensive income (removal 
of the so called ‘corridor’ method) and the calculation of a net interest expense 
or income by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability 
or asset. This replaces the expected return on plan assets that is currently 
included in profit or loss. The standard also introduces a number of additional 
disclosures for defined benefit liabilities/assets and could affect the timing of 
the recognition of termination benefits. It also changes the distinction between 
short and long-term benefits for measurement purposes, to be based on when 
payment is expected to be made, not when payment can be demanded. 
Since QR National Limited does not have any defined benefit obligations, the 
amendments are not expected to have any significant impact on the Group’s 
financial statements. The Group does not intend to adopt the new standard 
before their operative date, which means that it would be first applied in the 
annual reporting period ending 30 June 2014.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

61

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(ii)  Tax consolidation legislation

(ab) New accounting standards and interpretations (continued) 
(v) 

 AASB 2011-9 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards - 
Presentation of Items of Other Comprehensive Income (effective  
1 July 2012)

In September 2011, the AASB made an amendment to AASB 101 Presentation 
of Financial Statements which requires entities to separate items presented 
in other comprehensive income into two groups, based on whether they may 
be recycled to profit or loss in the future. This will not affect the measurement 
of any of the items recognised in the balance sheet or the profit or loss in the 
current period. The group intends to adopt the new standard from 1 July 2012.

QR National and its wholly-owned Australian controlled entities have 
implemented the tax consolidation legislation with effect from 22 November 
2010. All Australian wholly-owned companies in the QR National Limited Group 
are part of the tax consolidated group and are therefore taxed as a single 
entity. The head entity of the tax consolidated group is QR National Limited. 
The Group has notified the Australian Taxation Office that it has formed a tax 
consolidated group, applying from 22 November 2010.

The head entity, QR National Limited, and the controlled entities in the tax 
consolidated group account for their own current and deferred tax amounts. 
These tax amounts are measured as if each entity in the tax consolidated 
group continues to be a stand-alone taxpayer in its own right.

(vi)   AASB 2012-3 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standard - Offsetting 
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities and AASB 2012-2 Disclosures - 
Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (effective 1 January 
2014 and 1 January 2013 respectively)

In addition to its own current and deferred tax amounts, QR National Limited 
also recognises the current tax liabilities (or assets) and the deferred tax assets 
arising from unused tax losses and unused tax credits assumed from controlled 
entities in the tax consolidation group.

In June 2012, the AASB approved amendments to the application guidance 
in AASB 132 Financial Instruments: Presentation, to clarify some of the 
requirements for offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities in the 
balance sheet. These amendments are effective from 1 January 2014.  
They are unlikely to affect the accounting for any of the entity’s current 
offsetting arrangements. However, the AASB has also introduced more 
extensive disclosure requirements into AASB 7 which will apply from  
1 January 2013. When they become applicable, the Group will have to  
provide a number of additional disclosures in relation to its offsetting 
arrangements. The Group intends to apply the new rules for the first time  
in the financial year commencing 1 July 2013.

The entities have also entered into a tax funding agreement which sets out 
the funding obligations of members of the tax consolidated group in respect 
of income tax amounts. The tax funding arrangements require payments to 
the head entity equal to the current tax liability assumed by the head entity. 
In addition, the head entity is required to make payments equal to the current 
tax asset or deferred tax asset arising from unused tax losses and tax credits 
assumed by the head entity from a subsidiary member.

These tax funding arrangements result in the head entity recognising a  
current inter-entity receivable/payable equal in amount to the tax liability/
asset assumed.

(vii)  AASB 2011-4 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards to  

(iii)  Employee benefits – share-based payments

Remove Individual Key Management Personnel Disclosure Requirements 
(effective 1 July 2013)

In July 2011, the AASB removed the individual Key Management Personnel 
disclosure requirements from AASB 124 Related Party Disclosures, to achieve 
consistency with the international equivalent standard and remove a 
duplication of the requirements with the Corporations Act 2001. While this will 
reduce the disclosures that are currently required in the notes to the financial 
statements, it will not affect any of the amounts recognised in the financial 
statements. The amendments apply from 1 July 2013 and cannot be adopted 
early. The Corporations Act requirements in relation to remuneration reports, 
will remain unchanged for now, but these requirements, are currently subject  
to review and may also be revised in the near future.

(ac) Parent entity financial information
The financial information for the parent entity, QR National Limited, disclosed 
in note 38, has been prepared on the same basis as the consolidated financial 
statements, except as set out below.

(i) 

Investments in subsidiaries, associates, and joint-venture entities

Investments in subsidiaries, associates, and joint-venture entities are 
accounted for at cost in the financial statements of QR National Limited. 
Dividends received from associates are recognised in the parent entity’s 
income statement, rather than being deducted from the carrying amount  
of these investments.

The grant by the Company of rights over its equity instruments to the 
employees of subsidiary undertakings in the Group is treated as a capital 
contribution to that subsidiary undertaking. The fair value of employee services 
received, measured by reference to the grant date fair value, is recognised over 
the vesting period as an increase to investment in subsidiary undertakings, with 
a corresponding credit to equity.

2  Critical accounting estimates and judgements

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on 
historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events 
that may have a financial impact on the entity and that are believed to be 
reasonable under the circumstances.

The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The 
resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related 
actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of 
causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities 
within the next financial year are discussed over page.

62

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

2  Critical accounting estimates and judgements (continued)

(i) 

Impairment

The Group considers annually whether there has been any indicators of 
impairment and then tests whether non-current assets, including goodwill, have 
suffered any impairment, in accordance with the accounting policy  
stated in note 1(j). The recoverable amounts of cash generating units have 
been determined based on value in use calculations, or fair value less costs  
to sell. These calculations require the use of assumptions. Refer to note 15  
and 16 for further details on the carrying amounts of non-current assets 
subject to impairment testing.

(ii)  Employee benefits

The determination of the provisions required is dependent on specific 
assumptions, including expected wage increases, length of employee service, 
and bond rates. Refer to note 21 for further information.

(iii)  Taxation

The Group’s accounting policy for taxation requires management’s judgement 
as to the types of arrangements considered to be subject to tax. Judgement 
is also required in assessing whether certain deferred tax assets and certain 
deferred tax liabilities are recognised on the balance sheet. Deferred tax assets, 
including those arising from non-recoupable tax losses, capital losses and 
temporary differences, are recognised only when it is considered probable they 
will be recovered. Recoverability is dependent on the generation of sufficient 
future taxable profits.

Assumptions about the generation of future taxable profits depend on 
management’s estimates of future cash flows. These, in turn, depend on 
estimates of future sales volumes, operating costs, capital expenditure and 
other capital management transactions. Judgements are also required about 
the application of income tax legislation. These judgements and assumptions 
are subject to risk and uncertainty; hence, there is a possibility that changes 
in circumstances will alter expectations, which may impact the amount of 
deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities recognised on the balance 
sheet, and the amount of other tax losses and temporary differences not yet 
recognised. In such circumstances, some or all of the carrying amounts of 
recognised deferred tax assets and liabilities may then require adjustment, 
resulting in a corresponding credit or charge to the income statement.

Refer to notes 18 and 23 for carrying amounts of deferred tax assets and 
deferred tax liabilities respectively.

(iv)  Depreciation

Management estimates the useful lives and residual values of property, plant 
and equipment based on the expected period of time over which economic 
benefits from use of the asset will be derived. Management reviews useful 
life assumptions on an annual basis, having given consideration to variables, 
including historical and forecast usage rates, technological advancements and 
changes in legal and economic conditions. Refer to note 1(p) for details of 
current depreciation rates used. 

Revision of useful lives of plant and equipment

During the year, the useful lives of rollingstock were adjusted upwards from  
25 to 30 years to more accurately reflect the useful lives of these assets, as  
part of a management review (refer to note 1p(iii)). There has also been a 
reduction in the value ascribed to the initial overhaul component of rollingstock 
used within the Coal and Freight businesses. The overhaul component is 
depreciated over a useful life of 15 years. The change in accounting estimate 
has been applied with effect from 1 July 2011. The net effect of these changes 
for the year ended 30 June 2012 was a decrease in depreciation expense for 
the Group of $36.5 million. Assuming the assets are held until the end of their 
estimated useful lives, depreciation expensed will decrease by $36.5 million 
next financial year, however, the life over which depreciation is recognised will 
be extended.

The revised useful lives have been adopted following a detailed review and 
analysis of the current fleet, taking into consideration current and forecast 
operating statistics, detailed history of maintenance costs and overhaul profile.

(v)  Take or pay
The calculation of ‘take or pay’ is based on an assessment of access charges 
from contracted railings that have not been achieved, subject to an adjustment 
for QR Network Pty Ltd (“below rail”) cause. Below rail cause is based on 
information on below rail versus operator/mine cancellations in the relevant 
year. The estimate of ‘take or pay’ is based on management’s judgement of 
below rail cause and is recognised in the year in which the contractual railings 
have not been achieved.

(vi)  Strategic infrastructure projects
During the period, work continued on various significant infrastructure projects 
in relation to above and below rail development. For the year ended 30 June 
2012, $42.3 million (2011: $nil) of costs were capitalised. Management’s 
judgement has been applied to the extent to which capitalisation of these 
projects is appropriate. The application of this judgement will be re-assessed 
throughout the life of the projects.

These projects have significantly advanced since the half-year report, which 
includes announcements by the State of Queensland in respect of the rail 
corridor, announcements by the Group of a 25 mtpa expansion of the 
Goonyella to Abbot Point rail line, as well as customer announcements of joint 
agreements in respect of progressing the feasibility of those projects.

3  Financial risk management

The Group has exposure to a variety of financial risks, including market risk 
(foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk and fuel price risk), credit risk and 
liquidity risk. The Board approved Treasury Policy addresses the management 
of these risks using various financial instruments. Trading for speculation is 
strictly prohibited. Compliance with the Policy is monitored on an ongoing basis 
through regular reporting to the Board.

(a)  Market risk
Market risk is the risk that adverse movements in fuel price, foreign exchange, 
interest rates and equity prices will increase costs and negatively impact the 
Group’s income or the value of its holdings of financial instruments. The Group 
measures market risk using cash flow at risk. The objective of risk management 
is to manage the market risks inherent in the business to protect profitability 
and return on assets.

(i)  Foreign exchange risk

Exposure to foreign exchange risk
Foreign exchange risk arises from the purchase of capital equipment and 
operating expenditure (primarily fuel expenses) that are denominated in 
or related to a currency that is not the entity’s functional currency.  These 
transactions apply in large part to the US Dollar (“USD”) and the Euro (“EUR”). 

The Group’s exposure to foreign currency risk at the end of the reporting 
period, expressed in AUD, was as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade receivables

Net forward exchange contracts

Net exposures

  2012

  2011

USD
$m

 1.1

–

(8.8)

(7.7)

EUR
$m

0.1

–

(5.1)

(5.0)

USD
$m

1.2

0.8

(75.2)

(73.2)

EUR
$m

0.2

_

(2.3)

(2.1)

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

63

3  Financial risk management (continued)

(a)  Market risk (continued)
(i)  Foreign exchange risk (continued)

Risk management
In order to protect against foreign exchange movements, the Group enters 
into forward foreign exchange contracts. These contracts are hedging highly 
probable forecast foreign currency exposures. Such contracts are designated 
as cash flow hedges. Realised gains or losses on these contracts arise due to 
differences between the spot rates on settlement and the forward rates of the 
derivative contracts.

During the year, the net realised loss arising from foreign exchange hedging 
activities for the Group was $16.3 million (2011: loss of $15.4 million) as a 
result of the AUD appreciating above the average hedged rate. Of this net 
amount, a realised loss of $9.3 million (2011: loss of $17.2 million) represents 
the effective portion of the hedges which has been recognised in the relevant 
expenditure category which the contract was hedging or capitalised to 
a project, and a realised loss of $7.0 million (2011: gain of $1.8 million) 
represents the ineffective portion of hedges and non designated derivatives, 
which has been recognised in other expenses.

(ii)  Fuel price risk

Exposure to fuel price risk

Fuel price risk arises on the Group’s exposure to fuel prices, predominately Gasoil.

Risk management
In order to protect against adverse fuel price movements, the Group enters 
into commodity swap contracts. These contracts are hedging highly probable 
forecast fuel consumption. Realised gains and losses on these contracts arise 
due to differences between the actual fuel prices on settlement and the 
forward price of the derivative contract.

During the year, the net realised gain arising from fuel hedging activities 
for the Group was $9.9 million (2011: gain of $3.0 million) as a result of 
actual fuel prices moving higher than the average hedged price. Of this net 
amount, a realised gain of $6.0 million (2011: $3.5 million) represents the 
effective portion of the hedges which has been recognised in diesel expense, 
and a realised gain of $3.9 million (2011: loss of $0.5 million) represents the 
ineffective portion of the hedges which has been recognised in other expenses.

As at the reporting date, both fuel commodity and fuel foreign exchange 
hedging derivatives were closed out due to the reduction in fuel at risk as a 
result of the shift to new form contracts.

(iii)  Equity securities price risk

The Group was exposed to equity securities price risk in the prior period 
through its investment in an unlisted equity trust which is classified as an 
available-for-sale investment. In the current period, the investment has been 
classified as an associate following the acquisition of an additional 18% 
interest in the unit trust (refer to note 14). An increase/decrease of 10% to the 
valuation of property owned by the unlisted entity in which securities are held 
would increase equity/decrease profit before tax by $nil (2011: $3.6 million).

(iv)  Interest rate risk

Exposure to interest rate risk

The Group holds both interest bearing assets and interest bearing liabilities, 
and therefore the Group’s income and operating cash flows are subject to 
changes in market interest rates.

The Group’s main interest rate risk arises from long term borrowings. Borrowings 
issued at variable rates expose the Group to cash flow interest rate risk.

30 June 2012

30 June 2011

Weighted 
average 
interest 
rate
%

Weighted 
average 
interest 
rate
%

Balance
$m

Balance
$m

5.4%

1,220.0

6.7%

830.0

3.6%

(500.0)

–

–

720.0

830.0

Bank overdrafts 
and bank loans

Interest rate 
swaps

Net exposure to 
cash flow interest 
rate risk

Risk management
In order to protect against adverse interest rate movements, the Group enters 
into derivative contracts.

During the year, the net realised gain arising from interest rate hedging 
activities for the Group was $1.5 million (2011: nil) as a result of market 
interest rates closing higher than the average hedged rate. The total realised 
gain represents the effective portion of the hedges which has been recognised 
in interest expense.

The Group accounts for financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, and 
financial liabilities at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

(v)  Sensitivity on foreign exchange, fuel price and interest rate risk

The following table summarises the gain/(loss) impact of reasonably possible 
changes in market risk, relating to existing financial instruments, on net 
profit and equity before tax. For the purpose of this disclosure, the following 
assumptions were used:

•   15% (2011: 15%) appreciation/depreciation of the AUD against the USD;

•   40% (2011: 40%) increase/decrease in the price of fuel;

•   100 basis points increase/decrease in interest rates;

•   Sensitivity analysis assumes hedge designations and effectiveness test 

results as at 30 June 2012 remain unchanged;

•   Sensitivity analysis is isolated for each risk assuming all other variables 

remain constant; and

•   Sensitivity analysis on foreign currency rates and fuel indices represent 

current market conditions.

15% movement in foreign  
currency rates
15% USD depreciation
15% USD appreciation
40% movement in fuel indices
40% decrease per barrel in  
fuel indices 
40% increase per barrel in  
fuel indices
100bps movement in interest rates
100 bps decrease in interest rates

borrowings
derivatives

100 bps increase in interest rates

Profit 
(before tax)
2011 
$m

2012 
$m

Equity 
(before tax)
2011 
$m

2012 
$m

0.2
(0.1)

1.0
(0.7)

2.4
(1.8)

9.5
(7.0)

–

–

10.9
–

(10.9)
–

(0.6)

0.6

8.3
–

(8.3)
–

–

–

(13.6)

13.6

–
(4.2)

–
4.2

–
–

–
–

At the reporting date, the interest rate profile of the Group’s interest bearing 
financial instruments was:

borrowings
derivatives

64

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

3  Financial risk management (continued)

(b)  Credit risk
Credit risk is managed on a group basis. Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to 
the Group if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet 
its contractual obligations. Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents, 
derivative financial instruments, deposits with financial institutions and 
receivables from customers.

The maximum exposure to credit risk, excluding the value of any collateral or 
other security, at balance date, to recognised financial assets, is the carrying 
amount, net of any provisions for impairment of those assets, as disclosed in the 
balance sheet and notes to the financial statements. Credit risk further arises in 
relation to financial guarantees given to certain parties. Refer to note 3(d).

The Group does not have any material credit risk exposure to any single 
receivable (or group of receivables) under financial instruments entered into by 
the Group. For some trade receivables, the Group may also obtain security in 
the form of guarantees, deeds of undertaking, or letters of credit, which can be 
called upon if the counterparty is in default under the terms of the agreement. 
Refer to note 3(d) for further details.

The Group has policies in place to ensure that sales of services are only made 
to customers with an appropriate credit profile. If customers are independently 
rated, these ratings are used. Otherwise, if there is no independent rating, the 
credit quality of the customer is assessed, taking into account its financial 
position, past experience and other factors.

Credit risk on cash transactions and derivative contracts is managed through 
the Board approved Treasury Policy, which restricts the Group to financial 
institutions whose long-term credit ratings, determined by a recognised ratings 
agency, are at or above the minimum rating of A-. This Policy also limits the 
amount of credit exposure to any one financial institution. The Group’s net 
exposures and the credit ratings of its counterparties are regularly monitored.

The Group’s available-for-sale equity securities held in the prior period were 
units in an unlisted property trust with an unrated counterparty, where the 
underlying investment was commercial property. The Group has policies 
in place to ensure that investments are made with counterparties with an 
appropriate credit history/low credit risk.

An analysis of the Group’s trade and other receivables that have been impaired 
and the ageing of those that are past due but not impaired at the balance 
date is presented in note 10(b).

(c)  Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will encounter difficulties in meeting 
the obligations associated with its financial liabilities. The Group’s approach 
to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far as possible, sufficient liquidity is 
available to meet its liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed 
conditions without incurring unacceptable losses or risking damage to the 
Group’s reputation.

Financing arrangements

The Group has access to undrawn borrowing facilities through its Syndicated 
Facility Agreement.

The total amount of credit unused as at 30 June 2012 was $1,775.0 million 
(2011: $2,170.0 million).

The Group also has a credit standby arrangement with the Commonwealth 
Bank of Australia in the form of a bank overdraft totalling $2.0 million (2011: 
$2.0 million).

The following table summarises the contractual timing of undiscounted 
cash flows including estimated interest payments, of financial liabilities and 
derivative instruments. The contractual amount assumes current interest rates 
and foreign exchange rates estimated using forward curves applicable at the 
end of the reporting period.

For cash flows relating to cash and cash equivalents, refer to note 9.

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

2012

Non-derivatives

Non-interest bearing  

Variable rate borrowings  

Financial guarantees

Total non-derivatives

Derivatives

Forward commodity derivatives used  
for hedging

Interest rate swaps used for hedging

Foreign exchange contracts used for hedging

- (inflow) 

- outflow

Total derivatives

Less than
1 year
$m

Between
1 and 5 years
$m

Over 5 years
$m

Total contractual 
cash flows
$m

Carrying amount 
(assets)/ 
liabilities
$m

 349.6

60.2

54.1

463.9

–

(0.4)

(11.3)

12.1

0.4

–

1,254.6

–

1,254.6

–

(0.5)

(2.6)

3.0

(0.1)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

 349.6

1,314.8

54.1

1,718.5

–

(0.9)

(13.9)

15.1

0.3

 349.6

1,201.6

–

1,551.2

–

2.4

0.8

  3.2

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

65

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

3  Financial risk management (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

2011

Non-derivatives

Non-interest bearing  

Variable rate borrowings  

Financial guarantees

Total non-derivatives

Derivatives

Forward commodity derivatives used  
for hedging

Interest rate swaps used for hedging

Foreign exchange contracts used for hedging

- (inflow) 

- outflow

Total derivatives

Less than
1 year
$m

Between
1 and 5 years
$m

Over 5 years
$m

Total contractual 
cash flows
$m

Carrying amount 
(assets)/ 
liabilities
$m

310.2

55.9

40.5  

406.6

(7.3)

 (80.3)

96.2

8.6

–

931.5

–

931.5

(2.7)

(12.4)

16.0

0.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

310.2

987.4

40.5  

1,338.1

(10.0)

(92.7)

112.2

9.5

310.2

803.2

–

1,113.4

(10.0)

16.3

6.3

(d)  Fair value measurements
The net fair value of cash, cash equivalents and non interest bearing financial assets and liabilities approximates their carrying value due to their short maturity. 
The net fair value of other financial assets and liabilities is determined by valuing them at the present value of future contracted cash flows. Cash flows are 
discounted using standard valuation techniques at the applicable market yield, having regard to the timing of the cash flows.

The net fair value of forward foreign exchange and fuel contracts is determined as the unrealised gain/loss at balance date by reference to market exchange 
rates and fuel prices. The net fair value of interest rate swaps is determined as the present value of future contracted cash flows. Cash flows are discounted using 
standard valuation techniques at the applicable market yield, having regard to the timing of the cash flow.

66

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

3  Financial risk management (continued)

(d)  Fair value measurements (continued)

Financial assets 
carried at fair value
Forward exchange 
contracts

Interest rate swaps

Commodity swaps

Financial assets 
carried at amortised 
cost

Cash and cash 
equivalents

Trade and other 
receivables

Financial assets 
available-for-sale

Equity securities

Financial liabilities 
carried at fair value

Forward exchange 
contracts

Interest rate swaps

Commodity swaps

Financial liabilities 
carried at amortised 
cost

Trade and other 
payables

Carrying 
amount

Fair value

2012
$m

2011
$m

2012
$m

2011
$m

0.1

–

–

0.1

4.5

–

20.3

24.8

0.1

–

–

0.1

4.5

–

20.3

24.8

98.8

117.1

98.8

117.1

548.1

646.9

473.5

590.6

548.1

646.9

–

–

36.3

36.3

(0.9)

(2.4)

–

(3.3)

(20.8)

–

(10.3)

(31.1)

–

–

(0.9)

(2.4)

–

(3.3)

(349.6)

(310.2)

(349.6)

473.5

590.6

36.3

36.3

(20.8)

–

(10.3)

(31.1)

(310.2)

(856.2)

Borrowings

(1,201.6)

(803.2)

(1,210.6)

Off-balance sheet
Unrecognised 
financial assets

Third party 
guarantees

Bank guarantees

Insurance company 
guarantees

Unrecognised 
financial liabilities

Bank guarantees

(1,551.2)

(1,113.4)

(1,560.2)

(1,166.4)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

48.5

247.4

50.5

203.8

27.3

25.2

(54.1)

269.1

(40.5)

239.0

Fair value hierarchy
The table below analyses financial instruments carried at fair value, by 
valuation method. The different levels have been defined as follows:

• 

• 

• 

Level 1: quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets  
or liabilities

Level 2: inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that  
are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (i.e., as prices)  
or indirectly (i.e., derived from prices)

Level 3: inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable 
market data (unobservable inputs)

2012
Derivative financial 
assets

Derivative financial 
liabilities

Net financial 
instruments measured 
at fair value

2011
Derivative financial 
assets

Derivative financial 
liabilities

Available-for-sale 
financial assets 

Net financial 
instruments measured 
at fair value

Level 1
$m

Level 2
$m

Level 3
$m

Total
$m

–

–

–

0.1

(3.3)

(3.2)

–

–

–

Level 1
$m

Level 2
$m

Level 3
$m

24.8

(31.1)

–

–

0.1

(3.3)

(3.2)

Total
$m

24.8

(31.1)

–

36.3

36.3

(6.3)

36.3

30.0

–

–

–

–

During the year, there were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value 
hierarchies. Level 3 instruments comprise of unlisted equity securities which 
are no longer an available-for-sale instrument in the current period as it is now 
an investment in an associate following the acquisition of an additional 18% 
interest in the unit trust (refer to note 14). The determination of the fair value 
of these available-for-sale securities in the prior period was calculated with 
reference to an independent valuation of the investment property trust.

4  Segment information

(a)  Description of segments
Business Segments
The Group has determined operating segments based on the operating 
structure of the Group and the different reports reviewed by the Executive 
Leadership Team. The segments are based on the operational structure of 
the Group and the different products and services provided by each segment. 
The chief operating decision makers assess the performance of the operating 
segments based on the underlying earnings before interest and tax (“EBIT”). 
Amounts included in the report by the chief operating decision maker are in 
accordance with the Group’s accounting policies.

Interest expense for the entire Group is not allocated to specific segments but 
rather recorded as a corporate expense. With the exception of property, plant 
and equipment, asset and liability positions of the Group are only reviewed at 
the consolidated level. All assets and revenues are located in or attributable to 
the provision of services within Australia.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

67

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

4  Segment information (continued)

(a)  Description of segments (continued)
The following summary describes the operations in each of the Group’s 
reportable segments: 

Network Services
Provision of access to, and operation and management of the Central 
Queensland Coal Network.

Coal
Transport of coal from mines in Queensland and NSW to end customers and ports.

Provision of design, construction, overhaul, maintenance and management 
service to the Group as well as external customers.

Freight
Transport of bulk mineral commodities (including iron ore), agricultural 
products, mining and industrial inputs and general freight throughout 
Queensland, New South Wales and Western Australia, and containerised  
freight throughout Australia.

Unallocated
Items of revenue and expense of a corporate nature, as well as those  
relating to minor operations within the Group, and ineffective hedging  
gains and losses.

Coal
$m

Freight
$m

Network
Services
$m

Unallocated
$m

Total
$m

699.9

1,057.9

–
11.4

1,769.2

–
 21.1

–

–

21.1

 2.8

1,110.1

178.0

61.6

1,352.5

–
103.1

–

–

103.1

106.5

–
108.6

 138.1

353.2

 637.6

–

221.9

–

859.5

Total revenue

1,790.3

 1,455.6

1,212.7

Other income (note 6)

Total segment revenue and other income

37.3

1,827.6

68.0

1,523.6

(2.6)

1,210.1

(b)  Segment information

2012

Segment revenue

Revenue from external customers
Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services

Other revenue

Total revenue from external customers

Intersegment revenue
Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services    

Other revenue

Total intersegment revenue

Intersegment elimination

Consolidated revenue and other income

Segment result

Underlying EBITDA
Depreciation and amortisation

Underlying EBIT

Significant adjustments (note 4(c))

EBIT
Net finance costs 

Profit before income tax
Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit for the year

Other segment information
Property, plant and equipment

441.2
(184.2)

257.0

172.8
(72.9)

99.9

527.2
(185.8)

341.4

(93.0)
(20.8)

(113.8)

3,117.0

1,145.8

4,520.4

254.0

9,037.2

–

–

–
29.1

29.1

–
–

–

97.6

97.6 

126.7

27.4

154.1

809.2

2,168.0

286.6

240.2

3,504.0

 637.6

124.2

221.9

97.6

1,081.3

4,585.3

130.1

4,715.4

(1,081.3)

3,634.1  

1,048.2
(463.7)

584.5

8.8  

593.3
(39.0)

554.3
(113.4)

440.9

68

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

4  Segment information (continued)

(b)  Segment information (continued)

2011(1)

Segment revenue

Revenue from external customers

Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services

Other revenue

Intersegment revenue

Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services    

Other revenue

Total intersegment revenue

Total revenue

Other income (note 6)

Coal
$m

Freight
$m

Network
Services
$m

Unallocated
$m

Total
$m

 708.8

926.0

–

6.2

8.4

959.7

148.6

32.6

–

14.4

–

–

14.4

–

71.7

–

–

71.7

112.6

–

106.4

138.3

357.3

590.4

–

211.3

20.8

822.5

–

–

–

49.1

49.1

–

–

–

106.3

106.3

155.4

829.8

1,885.7

255.0

226.2

3,196.7

590.4

86.1

211.3

127.1

 1,014.9

4,211.6

1,655.4

1,221.0

1,179.8

35.1

56.2

–

4.7

96.0

Total revenue from external customers

1,641.0

1,149.3

Total segment revenue and other income

1,690.5

1,277.2

1,179.8

160.1

4,307.6

Intersegment elimination

Consolidated revenue and other income

Segment result

Underlying EBITDA

Depreciation and amortisation

Underlying EBIT

Significant adjustments (note 4(c))

EBIT

Net finance costs 

Profit before income tax

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit for the year

Other segment information
Property, plant and equipment

368.9

(210.1)

158.8

89.2

(58.6)

30.6

465.8

 (164.8)

301.0

(83.4)

(23.7)

(107.1)

(1,014.9)

3,292.7  

840.5

(457.2)

383.3

(161.7)

221.6

(137.8)

83.8

277.1

360.9  

3,194.4

864.5

4,007.2

259.1

8,325.2

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these adjustments.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

69

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

4  Segment information (continued)

(c)  Significant adjustments
The group’s underlying results differs from the statutory result. The exclusion of 
certain items permits a more appropriate and meaningful analysis of Group’s 
underlying performance on a comparative basis. The significant adjustments 
for the current and prior year are:

(d)  Customer disclosure
The nature of the Group’s business is that it enters into long-term contracts 
with key customers. It also earns material revenues from the Queensland 
Government under various contractual and non-contractual arrangements. 
A customer from the Coal segment represents approximately $335.1 million 
(2011: $398.6 million) of the Group’s total revenue.

Employee benefits

Restructure costs

Voluntary redundancy schemes

Stamp duty

Total significant adjustments

2012 
$m

–

–

–

(8.8)

(8.8)

2011 
$m

54.7

33.3

62.7

11.0

161.7

2012
As noted below, New South Wales (NSW) stamp duty was triggered on  
21 September 2010 with the interposing of QR National Limited as part of  
the pre IPO restructuring. At the time of interposing there were some 
uncertainties regarding whether NSW stamp duty should be payable in  
respect of only the land held by the Group in NSW or both the land and  
other assets (i.e. Rollingstock) held in NSW. QRN lodged an application with  
the NSW Office of State Revenue (“OSR”) that stamp duty was only payable  
on the land, however at the time of the IPO, QRN raised a provision of $11.0 
million on the assumption that OSR may impose stamp duty on both land and 
rollingstock. After review the OSR confirmed that stamp duty was only payable 
in respect of the land ($2.2 million). Accordingly, the remaining provision of 
$8.8 million has been released back to the income statement.

2011
The Group incurred $33.3 million of non-operating costs in respect of the 
restructuring and separation of the discontinued businesses, which were 
transferred to Queensland Rail, and in respect of the IPO. These costs comprise 
advisory and system separation costs incurred in respect of the restructure and 
the IPO.

Employee benefit expense of $54.7 million comprises the payment of  
$41.9 million to employees under enterprise agreements negotiated with  
union representatives, which provide for a one-off payment of $4,000 per 
eligible employee as at settlement; $9.0 million expense related to the 
Employee Gift Offer; and $3.8 million related to incentive schemes for 
management and employees in relation to the IPO.

A major voluntary redundancy scheme was completed in April 2011, with costs 
of $54.7 million. Additional redundancies during the year totalled $8.0 million.

NSW stamp duty was triggered on 21 September 2010 with the interposing of 
QR National Limited as part of the IPO restructuring. The Group recognised a 
provision of $11.0 million in relation to the stamp duty event.

5  Revenue

Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services revenue

Other revenue

2012 
$m

809.2

2,168.0

286.6

240.2

2011 
$m

829.8

1,885.7

255.0

226.2

3,504.0

3,196.7

Included within the Freight transport revenue is $28.6 million (2011: $14.9 
million) of Deficit Tonnage Charges.

Included in Track access is nil (2011: $26.1 million) of Revenue Cap recovered 
in year in relation to contractual railings that were not achieved in 2010.

Included in Other services is revenue from Transport Service Contracts 
(for Regional Freight and Livestock Transport Services) from the State of 
Queensland of $177.9 million (2011: $148.3 million) including $33.0 million 
(2011: nil) of accrued additional payments earned through meeting 
performance criteria under the contract.

6  Other income

Net gain on disposal of property, plant  
and equipment

Fair value gains on financial assets at fair 
value through profit or loss

Foreign exchange gains (net)

Fuel rebates

Interest revenue

Stamp duty release of provision 

Other income

2012 
$m

2011(1)
$m

16.2

 0.6

0.1

97.8

2.5

8.8

4.1

130.1

–

–

–

90.2

3.3

–

2.5

96.0

(1)  Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a 
result of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these 
adjustments.

70

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

2012 
$m

2011(1) 
$m

Other expenses

2012 
$m

2011(1) 
$m

Rental expense relating to leases

18.9

19.3

Inventory obsolescence

Research & development

Losses on derivatives at fair value through 
profit or loss

Loss on sale of asset

Impairment losses - financial assets

Trade receivables

Impairment/devaluation of non-current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Stamp duty

Other expenses

Total other expenses

Finance costs

Interest and finance charges paid/payable

Provisions: unwinding of discount

Total finance costs

Amount capitalised to qualifying assets (a)

Total finance costs

2.9

0.1

1.1

–

0.7

–

0.2

18.0

41.9

88.6

(1.7)

86.9

(45.4)

41.5

2.4

0.3

6.4

2.1

0.6

2.2

11.0

18.5

62.8

183.2

(0.6)

182.6

(41.4)

141.2

(a)  Capitalised borrowing costs
The capitalisation rate used to determine the amount of borrowing costs to 
be capitalised is the weighted average interest rate applicable to the entity’s 
outstanding borrowings during the year of 6.10% (2011: 7.37%).

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result 
of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these 
adjustments.

7  Expenses

Profit/(loss) before income tax includes 
the following specific expenses:

Consumables

Repairs and maintenance

Track access  

Energy and fuel  

Other

290.2

371.4

429.9

308.6

277.4

383.6

359.8

306.4

Total consumables   

1,400.1

1,327.2

Employee benefits expenses

Defined benefit superannuation expense

Defined contribution superannuation 
expense

Voluntary redundancies and ex-gratia 
payments

IPO related incentives

21.0

64.0

14.9

–

23.2

60.1

64.9

54.7

Salaries, wages and allowances

686.9

725.8

Other employment expenses including 
on-costs

Total employee benefit expense

345.9

1,132.7

291.8

1,220.5

Depreciation and amortisation expense

Depreciation

Buildings

Plant and equipment

Rollingstock

Infrastructure

Total depreciation

Amortisation

Leased property

Leased rollingstock

Leased infrastructure

Plant and equipment under  
finance leases

Total amortisation

Total depreciation and amortisation of 
property, plant and equipment (note 15)

Other amortisation

Software

Customer contracts

Total amortisation (note 16)

12.3

45.1

198.1

67.3

322.8

2.3

19.3

101.1

0.1

122.8

445.6

16.3

1.8

18.1

12.5

48.0

202.6

61.1

324.2

0.7

31.1

83.3

0.1

115.2

439.4

16.5

1.3

17.8

Total depreciation and amortisation 
expense

463.7

457.2

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

71

8 

Income tax expense

(a)  Income tax expense

Current tax

Deferred tax

Deferred tax base reset on consolidation 
and privatisation

Prior period adjustments

Income tax (benefit)/expense is  
attributable to:

2012 
$m

7.9

138.8

2011(1)
$m

–

9.2

(33.3)

(290.3)

–

4.0

113.4

(277.1)

Profit/(loss) from continuing operations

113.4

(277.1)

Deferred income tax (revenue) expense 
included in income tax expense/(benefit) 
comprises:

Decrease (increase) in deferred tax assets 
(note 18)

Increase (decrease) in deferred tax liabilities 
(note 23)

45.3

(56.2)

60.2

105.5

(224.9)

 (281.1)

(b) 

 Numerical reconciliation of income tax expense/(benefit) to prima 
facie tax payable

Profit before income tax expense

Tax at the Australian tax rate of 30%  
(2011: 30%)

Tax effect of amounts which are not 
deductible (taxable) in calculating taxable 
income:

Entertainment

Research and development

Tax base reset on consolidation and 
privatisation (note 8(f))

Non-assessable income

Stamp duty on business restructure/
acquisition of subsidiary

Share-based payments

Other

Prior period adjustments

2012 
$m

554.3

166.3

 0.2

(6.0)

 (33.3)

(7.7)

(2.7)

–

(3.4)

–

2011 (1) 
$m

83.8

25.1

0.1

(2.5)

(290.3)

(16.6)

3.3

2.8

(3.0)

4.0

(d)  Tax privatisation legislation
Entities within the Group exited the State administered National Tax 
Equivalents Regime upon privatisation on 22 November 2010. At the same 
time, QR National Limited and its wholly-owned Australian subsidiaries entered 
the Federal Tax Regime.

(e)  Tax consolidation
QR National Limited and its wholly-owned Australian subsidiaries have 
implemented the tax consolidation legislation as of 22 November 2010. All 
Australian wholly-owned companies in the QR National Limited Group are 
part of the tax consolidated group and are therefore taxed as a single entity. 
The Group has notified the ATO that it has formed a tax consolidated group, 
applying from 22 November 2010.

(f)  Tax base reset
During the year ended 30 June 2011, as a consequence of the privatisation of 
QR National Limited and the proposed election to consolidate its wholly-owned 
Australian subsidiaries under the Australian tax consolidation regime, the 
Group reset the tax base of its assets and liabilities as required by the specific 
privatisation tax rules and the tax consolidation regime. This resulted in an 
initial assessment of the net tax benefit of $290.3 million at 30 June 2011. 
At 30 June 2012, this net tax benefit upon privatisation has been reassessed 
to $323.6 million, and as a result, an additional income tax benefit of $33.3 
million has been recognised in the year ended 30 June 2012.

Government review of rights to future income legislation

Included in the $323.6 million net tax benefit upon privatisation is a  
benefit of $126.8 million relating to valuable customer contracts that can  
be deducted for tax purposes over an average life of seven years under rights  
to future income legislation. On 30 March 2011, the Assistant Federal Treasurer 
requested that the Board of Taxation review the application of the rights to 
future income rules, including the possibility of retrospective law changes, 
and make recommendations to the Government. The Board of Taxation has 
reported on its finding to the Government and the Government has enacted 
amending legislation to the rights to future income rules with retrospective 
effect from 1 July 2002. The amended legislation has not significantly 
impacted QR National’s tax claim under these provisions. This is because  
QR National’s claim arose after the original legislation was enacted but prior  
to the Government’s announcement to review the legislation.

(g)  Tax sharing agreement
The entities within the QR National Limited tax consolidated group have 
entered into a tax sharing agreement which limits the joint and several liability 
of the wholly-owned entities in the case of a default by the head entity.

9  Cash and cash equivalents

Cash on hand

2012 
$m

–

98.8

–

98.8

–

98.8

2011 
$m

0.1

116.6

 0.4

117.1

 (0.4)

116.7

Total income tax expense/(benefit)

113.4

(277.1)

Cash at bank

(c) 

 Tax expense (income) relating to items of other comprehensive income

Cash flow hedges

2012 
$m

0.1

2011 
$m

(0.1)

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result 
of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these 
adjustments.

Trust monies

Total cash and cash equivalents

Less: Trust monies

Balance as per cash flow statement

72

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

(b)  Past due but not impaired
As at 30 June 2012, trade receivables of $59.1 million (2011: $37.6 million) 
were past due but not impaired. The ageing of these trade receivables is as 
follows:

10  Trade and other receivables

Current

Trade receivables

Provision for impairment of  
receivables (note (a))

Net trade receivables

Other receivables

Coal network access undertaking receivables

2012 
$m

384.5

(2.9)

 381.6

166.5

–

548.1

2011 
$m

368.4

(2.2)

366.2

105.2

2.1

473.5

Up to 3 months

3 to 6 months

More than 6 months

11  Inventories

Other receivables include revenue for services performed but not yet invoiced 
under contracts including TSC, Take or Pay, and insurance receivables.

Current

(a)  Impaired trade receivables
As at 30 June 2012, the amount of the provision for impaired trade receivables 
was $2.9 million (2011: $2.2 million).

Movements in the provision for impairment of receivables are as follows:

Raw materials and stores - at cost

Work in progress - at cost

At 1 July 

Provision for impairment recognised  
during the year   

Receivables written off during the year  
as uncollectable  

Unused amounts reversed

At 30 June

2012 
$m

 2.2

1.3

0.0

(0.6)

2.9

2011 
$m

4.5

1.0

(1.4)

(1.9)

 2.2

The creation or release of the provision for impaired receivables has been 
included in the income statement. Amounts charged to the provision account 
are generally written off when there is no expectation of recovering additional 
cash.

The other classes within trade and other receivables do not contain impaired 
assets and are not past due. Based on the credit history of these other classes, 
it is expected these amounts will be received when due.

Non-current

Raw materials and stores - at cost

Provision for inventory obsolescence

Inventory at lower of cost or net  
realisable value

Inventory expense

a) 
Inventory recognised as expense during the year ended 30 June 2012 
amounted to $707.4 million (2011: $709.9 million). Write-downs of inventories 
to net realisable value recognised as an expense during the year ended  
30 June 2012 amounted to $1.9 million (2011: $2.0 million).

2012 
$m

48.4 

 5.1

 5.6

59.1

2012 
$m

204.0

11.8

215.8

2012 
$m

14.1

(5.4)

8.7

2011 
$m

33.9

 2.5

1.2

37.6

2011 
$m

162.1

15.5

177.6

2011 
$m

24.2

 (3.5)

20.7

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

73

12  Derivative financial instruments

Current assets

Forward exchange contracts -  
cash flow hedges

Forward exchange contracts -  
at fair value through profit or loss

Commodity contracts -  
at fair value through profit or loss

Commodity contracts - cash flow hedges

Total current derivative financial  
instrument assets

Non-current assets

Forward exchange contracts - at fair value 
through profit or loss

Commodity contracts - at fair value through 
profit or loss

Commodity contracts - cash flow hedges

Total non-current derivative financial 
instruments assets

Total derivative financial  
instrument assets

Current liabilities

Forward exchange contracts -  
cash flow hedges

Forward exchange contracts -  
at fair value through profit or loss

Commodity contracts -  
at fair value through profit or loss

Interest rate swap contracts -  
cash flow hedges

Total current derivative  
financial instrument liabilities

0.1

–

–

–

0.1

–

–

–

–

–

4.3

10.8

6.2

21.3

0.2

0.8

2.5

3.5

7.8

9.3

–

–

–

0.6

1.3

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

Non-current liabilities

Forward exchange contracts -  
cash flow hedges

Forward exchange contracts - at fair value 
through profit or loss

Commodity contracts - at fair value through 
profit or loss

Interest rate swap contracts - cash flow 
hedges

Total non-current derivative financial 
instrument liabilities

Total derivative financial  
instrument liabilities

(a)  Instruments used by the group
The Group holds derivative financial instruments to hedge (including 
economically hedge) its foreign currency, interest rate and fuel price risk 
exposures in accordance with the Group’s financial risk management policy 
(refer to note 3).

0.1

24.8

13  Other assets

0.7

10.2

Current

Prepayments

14  Investments accounted for using the equity method

27.3

Shares in associates (refer note 30(d))

Interest in joint ventures (refer note 30(c))

During the year the Group acquired a further 18% interest in Moorebank 
Industrial Property Trust (unlisted entity) for $41.1 million taking its stake to 
33%. Following the acquisition of the additional equity, the investments have 
been classified as an investment in an associate. In the prior year, these were 
classified as other financial assets in note 17.

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

0.2

–

–

1.8

2.0

3.3

1.9

1.0

0.9

–

3.8

31.1

2012 
$m

8.0

8.0

2012 
$m

77.5

0.5

78.0

2011 
$m

10.6

10.6

2011 
$m

–

0.5

0.5

74

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

15  Property, plant and equipment

Assets under 
construction 
$m

Land
$m

Leased 
property
$m

Build-
ings
$m

Plant and 
equipment 
$m

Rolling-
stock
$m

Leased 
infra- 
structure
$m

Leased 
rolling- 
stock
$m

Leased 
plant and 
equipment 
$m

Infra- 
structure
$m 

Total
$m

2012
Opening net 
book amount

Additions

Transfers 
between asset 
classes

Disposals

Impairment 
reversal

Assets classified 
as held-for-sale

Depreciation/
amortisation 
expense

Closing net 
book amount

Cost

Accumulated 
depreciation 
and impairment 
losses

Net book 
amount

2011(1)
Opening net 
book amount

Additions

Transfers 
between asset 
classes

Disposals

Impairment 
reversal

Depreciation/
amortisation 
expense

Closing net 
book amount

5.6

1.2

5.2

–

–

–

302.9

0.2

56.4

(0.9)

–

–

275.3

15.3

2,978.6

1,776.9

197.7

–

–

–

0.6

–

1,239.0

18.9

8,325.2

1,201.6

41.9

(9.0)

1.6

–

492.8

(10.4)

0.0

(2.2)

109.9

–

–

–

(2.8)

(2.8)

(0.1)

–

–

–

–

–

1,393.2

(3.8)

(9.3)

(29.6)

0.0

3.6

–

(8.7)

1,365.7

1,166.0

182.9

–

1.6

(2.7)

–

(6.5)

(2,107.5)

–

2.1

–

–

0.0

(2.3)

(12.3)

(45.1)

(198.1)

(101.1)

(19.3)

(0.1)

(67.3)

(445.6)

426.3

175.3

9.7

346.3

280.0

3,260.7

1,785.7

172.7

0.5

2,580.0

9,037.2

426.3

175.3

14.6

460.2

528.0

4,496.8

2,182.3

336.3

0.8

2,825.4

11,446.0

–

0.0

(4.9)

(113.9)

(248.0)

(1,236.1)

(396.6)

(163.6)

(0.3)

(245.4)

(2,408.8)

426.3

175.3

9.7

346.3

280.0

3,260.7

1,785.7

172.7

0.5

2,580.0

9,037.2

811.8

1,283.3

182.4

1.6

3.4

1.4

225.5

1.4

275.1

28.1

2,529.0

1,554.3

304.0

19.0

–

–

1.6

(2.7)

2.2

(0.7)

87.7

(0.3)

31.2

(11.1)

636.5

(3.3)

–

1.1

–

–

305.9

–

–

(74.5)

(0.7)

–

(729.4)

–

–

–

–

–

(0.7)

(12.5)

(48.0)

(202.6)

(83.3)

(31.1)

(0.1)

(61.1)

(439.4)

1,365.7

182.9

5.6

302.9

275.3

2,978.6

1,776.9

197.7

0.6

1,239.0

8,325.2

–

–

0.7

–

–

1,531.5

36.3

7,417.0

1,371.1

(263.6)

(4.1)

(1.7)

(22.9)

–

1.1

Cost

1,365.7

182.9

8.2

405.3

516.7

4,039.5

2,046.7

372.6

0.8

1,444.7

10,383.1

Accumulated 
depreciation 
and impairment 
losses

Net book 
amount

–

–

(2.6)

(102.4)

(241.4)

(1,060.9)

(269.8)

(174.9)

(0.2)

(205.7)

(2,057.9)

1,365.7

182.9

5.6

302.9

275.3

2,978.6

1,776.9

197.7

0.6

1,239.0

8,325.2

(1)  Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these adjustments.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

75

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

15  Property, plant and equipment (continued)

17  Other financial assets

(a)  Non-current assets pledged as security
Leased rollingstock assets of $172.7 million (2011: $197.7 million) have been 
pledged as security under the terms of the cross border lease arrangements.

Unlisted equity securities

2012 
$m

–

2011 
$m

36.3

During the year the Group exercised its pre-emptive rights to acquire additional 
equity in the Moorebank Industrial Property Trust (MIPT) for $41.1 million, 
taking its stake to 33%.

Following the acquisition of additional equity, the investments have been 
classified as investment in an associate in note 14.

18  Deferred tax assets

The balance comprises temporary differences attributable to:

2012 
$m

Provisions/accruals

Tax losses

Customer contracts

Unearned revenue

Cash flow hedges

Other temporary differences

70.5

–

91.4

2.9

1.0

9.3

2011 
$m

45.7

37.5

116.1

3.1

9.3

8.8

175.1

 220.5

Set-off of deferred tax liabilities pursuant to 
set-off provisions (note 23)

Net deferred tax assets

(175.1)

(220.5)

–

–

16  Intangible assets

Goodwill
$m

Software
$m

Key 
customer 
contracts
$m

Total
$m

24.9

0.5

0.0

9.3

21.5

–

–

9.3

  3.1

0.5

0.0

–

0.3

–

–

–

–

(16.3)

 (1.8)

 (18.1)

0.3

14.5

1.8

16.6

73.3

107.2

 9.3

189.8

(73.0)

0.3

(92.7)

14.5

 (7.5)

 1.8

(173.2)

16.6

–

0.3

–

–

–

–

36.5

–

0.1

(0.3)

1.7

2.9

–

1.5

–

–

39.4

0.3

1.6

(0.3)

1.7

(16.5)

(1.3)

(17.8)

2012

Opening net  
book amount 

Additions

Disposals

Transfers

Amortisation 
expense

Closing net  
book amount

Cost

Accumulation 
amortisation  
and impairment

Net book amount

2011

Opening net  
book amount 

Acquisition  
of business

Additions

Disposals

Transfers

Amortisation 
expense

Closing net  
book amount

0.3

21.5

3.1

8.8

24.9

180.5

Cost

73.3

98.4

Accumulated 
amortisation  
and impairment

Net book amount

(73.0)

0.3

(76.9)

21.5

(5.7)

3.1

(155.6)

24.9

76

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

18  Deferred tax assets (continued)

Movements

At 30 June 2010

(Charged)/credited

– to profit or loss

–  to profit or loss as a result of consolidation  

and privatisation

– to other comprehensive income

At 30 June 2011

At 30 June 2011

(Charged)/credited

– to profit or loss

–  to profit or loss as a result of consolidation  

and privatisation

– to other comprehensive income

At 30 June 2012

Provisions/
accruals
$m
111.9

Tax losses
$m
41.0

Customer 
contracts
$m
–

Unearned 
revenue
$m
3.3

Cash flow 
hedges
$m
0.9

27.0

(93.2)

–

45.7

45.7

24.3

0.5

–

70.5

31.3

(34.8)

–

37.5

(19.6)

135.7

–

116.1

37.5

116.1

2.7

(2.9)

–

3.1

3.1

(37.5)

(15.8)

(0.2)

–

–

–

(8.9)

–

91.4

–

–

2.9

9.1

(0.8)

0.1

9.3

9.3

(8.2)

–

(0.1)

1.0

19  Trade and other payables

21  Provisions

Trade payables

Other payables

20 Borrowings

Non-current - Unsecured

Syndicated debt facility

Capitalised borrowing costs     

Total unsecured non-current borrowings

2012 
$m

313.5

36.1

349.6

2012 
$m

1,220.0

(18.4)

1,201.6

2011 
$m

 280.1

30.1

310.2

2011 
$m

830.0

(26.8)

803.2

The Group entered into a $3,000 million Syndicated Facility Agreement on 
7 October 2010, with the first draw down of the facility in November 2010. 
A syndicate of lenders have provided $1,425 million in a facility expiring in 
December 2013 and $1,575 million in facilities expiring in December 2015.

The Syndicated Debt Facility imposes certain covenants on the Group to  
ensure that certain financial ratios are met, and restricts the amount of  
security that the Group and its subsidiaries can provide over their assets in 
certain circumstances.

Current

Employee benefits (a)

Provision for insurance claims (b)

Litigation and workers’ compensation 
provision (c)

Decommissioning/make good and other 
provisions (d) 

Total current provisions

Non-current

Employee benefits (a)

Litigation and workers’  
compensation claim (c)

Decommissioning/make good  
and other provisions (d) 

Land rehabilitation (e)

Total non-current provisions

Other
$m
7.1

4.2

(2.5)

–

8.8

8.8

Total
$m
164.2

54.7

1.5

0.1

220.5

220.5

(0.1)

(37.5)

0.6

–

9.3

2012 
$m

325.8

20.0

24.0

1.6

371.4

25.6

15.5

4.0

36.2

81.3

(7.8)

(0.1)

175.1

2011 
$m

295.2

12.0

11.0

2.0

320.2

23.4

20.0

3.5

34.4

81.3

Total provisions

452.7

401.5

(a)  Employee benefits

Annual leave

Long service leave

Other

89.3

193.0

69.1

351.4

85.2

173.9

59.5

318.6

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

77

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

21  Provisions (continued)

(a)  Employee benefits (continued)
The current provision for employee benefits includes accrued annual leave, 
leave loading, retirement allowances, long service leave and bonus accrual. 
Included in long service leave are all unconditional entitlements where 
employees have completed the required period of service and also a provision 
for the chance that employees will reach the required period of service. 
The entire amount of the provision is presented as current, since the Group 
does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement for any of these 
obligations. However, based on past experience, the Group does not expect  
all employees to take the full amount of accrued leave or require payment 
within the next 12 months. The current provision for employee benefits 
includes an amount of $197.5 million (2011:$155.2 million) that is not 
expected to be taken or paid within the next 12 months.

Other employee benefit liabilities includes payroll tax and retirement allowances.

(b)  Provision for insurance claims
The provision for insurance claims is raised for insurance claims external to the 
Group and represents the aggregate deductible component in relation to loss 
or damage to property, plant and equipment and rollingstock.

(c)  Litigation and workers’ compensation
A provision of $39.5 million (2011: $31.0 million) is made for the estimated 
liability for workers’ compensation and litigation claims. Claims are assessed 
separately for common law, statutory and asbestos claims. The outstanding 
liability is determined after factoring future claims inflation and discounting 
future claim payments. Estimates are made based on the average number of 
claims and average claim payments over a specified period of time. Claims 
Incurred But Not Reported (“IBNR”) are also included in the estimate. Claims 
are expected to be paid over a period exceeding more than one year.

(d)  Decommissioning/make good and other provisions
A provision of $4.9 million (2011: $3.6 million) has been made for the 
anticipated costs of the future restoration of leased office premises. Make 
good requirements vary for different properties. The provision includes future 
cost estimates associated with the restoration of office fixtures and fittings 
to original condition; removal of all property and equipment to return the 
premises to a vacant shell, and making good any damage caused by their 
removal; and repairing and making good any damage which may be caused to 
land adjoining the premises as a result of carrying out structural work or other 
improvements. The provision has been calculated based on recent comparable 
make good costs or independent assessments.

A provision of $0.7 million (2011: $1.9 million) has been made for onerous 
lease contracts which represent the net unavoidable costs in meeting the 
obligations under property leases over the remaining lease terms.

(e)  Land rehabilitation
A provision of $36.2 million (2011: $34.4 million) has been recognised for 
the estimated costs to remediate contaminated land in accordance with the 
Group’s constructive obligations following the Board’s review of its revised 
sustainability policy at 30 June 2010. The provision is based on an estimated 
long-term inflation rate in the order of 3.2% (2011: 4.5%). The projected 
remediation dates for the various sites ranges from 10 to 40 years. To measure 
the present value of the estimated costs, a discount rate in the order of 4.5% 
(2011: 5.7%) was used, based on the interest rate which reflects the maturity 
profile of the liability.

(f)  Movements in provisions
Movements in each class of provision during the financial year, other than 
employee benefits, are set out below:

2012

Current and non-current
Carrying amount at start of the year

Charged/(credited) to profit or loss

– Additional provision recognised

– Unused amounts released or reversed

–  Charged/(credited) to the profit or loss - 

unwinding of discount

Amounts used during the year

Carrying amount at end of year

2011
Carrying amount at start of year

Charged/(credited) to profit or loss

– Additional provision recognised

– Unused amounts released or reversed

–  Increase/(decrease) in discounted amount 
arising from passage of time and effect of 
any change in the discount rate

Amounts used during the year

Carrying amount at end of year

Provision for 
insurance claims 
$m

Litigation 
and workers 
compensation 
provision 
$m

Decommissioning/ 
make good and 
other provision 
$m

Provision for land 
rehabilitation 
$m

12.0

18.1

–

–
(10.1)

20.0

–

13.9

(1.9)

–

–

12.0

31.0

21.1

–

–
(12.6)

39.5

28.5

12.7

(1.2)

–
(9.0)

 31.0

5.5

1.0

(0.3)

–

(0.6)

5.6

4.2

2.6

–

–

(1.3)

5.5

34.4

0.1

–

1.7

–

36.2

34.7

0.3

–

(0.6)

–

34.4

Total 
$m

82.9

40.3

(0.3)

1.7

(23.3)

101.3

67.4

29.5

(3.1)

(0.6)

(10.3)

82.9

78

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

22  Other liabilities

23  Deferred tax liabilities

Current

Income received in advance

Other current liabilities

Non-current

Income in advance

Other non-current liabilities

2012 
$m

36.9

0.6

37.5

291.5

18.7

310.2

2011 
$m

36.0

0.2

36.2

314.6

30.1

344.7

The balance comprises temporary 
differences attributable to:

Property, plant and equipment

Capitalised deductible expenditure

Consumables and spares

Accrued income

Cash flow hedges

Other temporary difference

Total deferred tax liabilities

2012 
$m

2011(1) 
$m

399.9

100.5

16.7

12.4

–

 9.1

416.7

32.4

14.3

1.5

7.5

6.0

 538.6  

478.4

Income received in advance represents amounts received from customers 
as prepayment of future rentals under agreements of customer specific 
infrastructure. These amounts are deferred and earned over the term of the 
agreement.

Other non-current liabilities include a $17.1 million (2011:$26.4 million)  
non-interest bearing loan with a former subsidiary, On Track Insurance Pty Ltd.

Set-off of deferred tax assets pursuant to 
set-off provisions (note 18)

Net deferred tax liabilities

(175.1)

363.5

(220.5)

257.9

Property, 
plant and 
equipment
$m
629.7

Capitalised 
deductible 
expenditure
$m
10.0

Consumables 
and spares 
$m
20.9

Accrued 
income
$m
50.8

Cash flow 
hedges
$m
(1.1)

Movements

At 1 July 2010

Charged/(credited)

– to profit or loss

–  to profit or loss as result of 

consolidation and privatisation

At 30 June 2011

19.2

(232.2)

416.7

58.5

(36.1)

32.4

27.3

(33.9)

14.3

At 1 July 2011

416.7

32.4

14.3

Charged/(credited)

– to profit or loss

–  to profit or loss as result of 

consolidation and privatisation

At 30 June 2012

22.5

(39.3)

399.9

68.1

–

100.5

2.8

(0.4)

16.7

(46.9)

(2.4)

1.5

1.5

10.9

-

12.4

8.6

–

7.5

7.5

(7.4)

(0.1)

-

Other
$m
(7.0)

(2.9)

15.9

6.0

6.0

4.5

(1.4)

9.1

Total
$m
703.3

63.8

(288.7)

478.4

478.4

101.4

(41.2)

538.6

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these adjustments.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

79

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

24  Contributed equity

(a)  Issued capital

2012
Shares
‘000

2011
Shares
‘000

 2012
$m

2011
$m

Ordinary 
shares

Fully paid

2,440,000

2,440,000

1,711.7

1,711.7

(f)  Capital risk management
The Group’s objective is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain 
investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development of 
the business.

The Group and the parent entity monitor its capital structure by reference to 
its gearing ratio. This ratio is calculated as net debt divided by total capital. 
Net debt is calculated as total borrowings less cash and cash equivalents. Total 
capital is calculated as ‘equity’ as shown in the balance sheet plus net debt. 
There were no changes in the Group’s approach to capital management during 
the year.

(b)  Other contributed equity

Share-based payments

Capital contributions from the State  
on retirement of borrowings 

Capital contribution from the State for 
employee gift shares

2012 
$m

10.1

2011
$m

2.9

4,388.3

4,388.3

9.0

9.0

4,407.4

4,400.2

Total borrowings

Less: cash and cash equivalents

Net debt

Total equity

Total capital  

Gearing ratio

2012 
$m

1,201.6

(98.8)

1,102.8

7,294.2

8,397.0

2011(1) 
$m

803.2

(117.1)

686.1

7,026.4

7,712.5

 13%

9% 

Total contributed equity

6,119.1

6,111.9

The Group has complied with externally imposed capital debt covenants.

(c)  Movements in ordinary share capital

Date
1 July 2010

31 August 2010

Details
Opening balance

Capital distribution to 
Queensland Rail

21 September 2010 Change in legal capital 

6 October 2010

structure from QR 
Limited to QR National 
Limited

Capital distribution on 
disposal of OTI pursuant 
to Transfer Notice

6 October 2010

Share split

30 June 2011

Closing balance

Number 
of shares 
(‘000)
3,792,757

$m
2,067.0

–

(332.3)

25  Reserves

(a)  Reserves

Hedging reserve – cash flow hedges

(3,792,757)

–

Hedging reserve - cash flow hedges

Movements:

–

2,440,000

2,440,000

(23.0)

–

1,711.7

Balance 1 July

Fair value (losses) taken to equity

Deferred tax

Fair value losses transferred to profit or loss                                                                              

Deferred tax

Balance 30 June

(b)  Nature and purpose of reserves
Hedging reserve - cash flow hedges

30 June 2012

Closing balance

2,440,000

1,711.7

(d)  Ordinary shares
Ordinary shares have no par value and the Group does not have a limited 
amount of authorised capital. Ordinary shares entitle the holder to participate 
in dividends and the proceeds on winding up of the Company in proportion to 
the number of and amounts paid on the shares held.

(e)  Share-based payments
Share-based payments represent the fair value of share-based remuneration 
provided to employees.

2012 
$m

(2.0)

(2.0)

(2.3)

(1.4)

0.4

1.8

(0.5)

(2.0)

2011 
$m

(2.3)

(2.3)

(2.0)

(2.3)

0.7

1.9

(0.6)

(2.3)

The hedging reserve is used to record gains or losses on a hedging instrument 
in a cash flow hedge that are recognised in other comprehensive income, as 
described in note 1(o). Amounts are recognised in the income statement when 
the associated hedged transaction affects the income statement.

(1)  Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result 
of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these 
adjustments.

80

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

26  Dividends

(a)  Ordinary shares

27  Key Management Personnel disclosures 

(a)  Key Management Personnel compensation

Interim dividend for the year ended  
30 June 2012 of 3.7 cents per share
(2011: nil), paid 30 April 2012 (unfranked)

Final dividend for the year ended  
30 June 2011 of 3.7 cents per share,  
paid September 2011 (unfranked) 

Special dividend for the period to  
21 September 2010 of 3.54 cents per  
fully paid share, paid November 2010 
(unfranked)

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

90.3

90.3

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Long-term benefits

Termination benefits

Share-based payments 

–

–

2012 
$’000

13,555

570

256

1,171

3,238

18,790

2011 
$’000

15,023

632

263

–

1,199

17,117

–

180.6

86.4

86.4

Short-term employee benefits include cash salary, at risk performance 
incentives and fees and non monetary benefits. Non-monetary benefits 
represent the value of Reportable Fringe Benefits for the respective Fringe 
Benefits Tax year ending 31 March, the estimated value of car parking  
provided and annual leave accrued or utilised during the financial year.

(b)  Dividends not recognised at the end of the reporting period

Since 30 June 2012, the Directors have 
declared the payment of a final dividend 
of 4.6 cents per fully paid ordinary share 
(2011:3.7 cents), unfranked. The aggregate 
amount of the proposed dividend expected 
to be paid on 28 September 2012 out of 
retained earnings, but not recognised as a 
liability at year end is: 

112.2

90.3

(b)  Equity instrument disclosures relating to Key Management Personnel
(i)    Rights provided as remuneration and shares issued on exercise of such rights

Details of the rights provided as remuneration, and shares issued on the 
exercise of such rights, together with terms and conditions of the rights, can be 
found in sections 6.1.3, 6.1.4 and 7.1 of the remuneration report.

(ii)  Rights holdings

The numbers of rights over ordinary shares in the Group held during the 
financial year by each Director of QR National Limited and other Key 
Management Personnel of the Group, including their personally related  
parties, are set out below.

2012 
Name 

L E Hockridge

D M O’Toole

K R Lewsey

M P McAuliffe

M G Carter

G P Pringle

R J Stephens

L J Cooper

C M Davies

G Robinson

P Scurrah

Balance at start 
of the year
‘000 

Granted as 
compensation 
‘000

Exercised
‘000

Other changes 
‘000

1,333

137

127

118

118

108

108

98

118

–

–

494

179

158

144

143

135

135

121

51

51

70

(333)

–

–

(93)

–

–

–

–

–

(16)

(40)

–

–

–

(169)

–

–

–

–

(51)

–

–

Balance at end 
of the year 
‘000

1,494

316

285

–

261

243

243

219

118

35

30

Vested and 
exercisable 
‘000

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Unvested
‘000

1,494

316

285

–

261

243

243

219

118

35

30

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

81

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

27  Key Management Personnel disclosures (continued)

(b) 

 Equity instrument disclosures relating to Key Management Personnel (continued) 

Balance at start 
of the year
‘000 

Granted as 
compensation 
‘000

Exercised
‘000

Other changes 
‘000

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,333

137

127

118

118

108

108

98

118

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Balance at end 
of the year 
‘000

1,333

137

127

118

118

108

108

98

118

Vested and 
exercisable 
‘000

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Unvested
‘000

1,333

137

127

118

118

108

108

98

118

2011 
Name 

L E Hockridge

D M O’Toole

K R Lewsey

M P McAuliffe

M G Carter

G P Pringle

R J Stephens

L J Cooper

C M Davies

(iii)  Share holdings

The numbers of shares in the Group held during the financial year by each Director of QR National Limited and other Key Management Personnel of the Group, 
including their personally related parties, are set out below.

2012
Name

Directors of QR National Limited(1)

J B Prescott AC

L E Hockridge

J Atkin

R R Caplan

G T John AO

A J P Staines

G T Tilbrook

K Field

J Cooper

Other Key Management Personnel of the Group(2)

D M O’Toole

K R Lewsey

M G Carter

G P Pringle

R J Stephens

L J Cooper

G Robinson

P Scurrah

Balance at the  
start of the year
‘000

Received during 
the year on the 
exercise of rights
‘000

Other changes  
during the year
‘000

Balance at end of 
the year
‘000

157

204

20

82

47

5

31

–

–

105

61

41

29

91

12

9

–

–

333

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

16

40

58

1

1

–

10

–

–

–

12

1

2

22

1

–

1

20

–

215

539

21

82

57

5

31

–

12

106

63

63

30

91

13

45

40

(1) Mr A J Davies resigned on 13 December 2011 and Mr P C Kenny (deceased) ceased being director on 8 October 2011.

(2) Mr M P McAuliffe and Mr C M Davies ceased employment on 30 June 2012 and 25 May 2012 respectively and are no longer considered as key management personnel.

82

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

27  Key Management Personnel disclosures (continued)

 Equity instrument disclosures relating to Key Management Personnel (continued)

(b) 
(iii)  Share holdings (continued)

2011
Name

Directors of QR National Limited

J B Prescott AC

L E Hockridge

J Atkin

R R Caplan

A J Davies

G T John AO

P C Kenny (deceased)

A J P Staines

G T Tilbrook

Other Key Management Personnel of the Group

D M O’Toole

K R Lewsey

M P McAuliffe

M G Carter

G P Pringle

R J Stephens

L J Cooper

C M Davies

Balance at the  
start of the year
‘000

Received during 
the year on the 
exercise of rights
‘000

Other changes  
during the year
‘000

Balance at end of 
the year
‘000

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

157

204

20

82

184

47

2

5

31

105

61

20

41

29

91

12

112

157

204

20

82

184

47

2

5

31

105

61

20

41

29

91

12

112

(c)  Transactions with Directors and Key Management Personnel
There were no Key Management Personnel related party transactions during 
the year.

Deed of cross guarantee
Cross guarantees are given by the Company and some of its wholly owned 
subsidiaries as described in note 33.

28  Contingencies

The Group had contingencies at 30 June 2012 in respect of:

(a)  Contingent liabilities
Issues relating to common law claims and product warranties are dealt with as 
they arise. There were no material contingent liabilities requiring disclosures in 
the financial statements, other than as set out below.

Litigation
A number of common law claims are pending against the Group. Provisions 
are taken up for some of these exposures based on the management’s 
determination, and are included as such in note 21.

Guarantees and letters of credit
For information about guarantees and letters of credit given by the Group, refer 
to note 3(d).

Defined benefit fund liabilities
The State of Queensland has permitted existing employees of QR National 
Limited and its subsidiaries including QR Limited (the QR National Group), as at 
the date of the IPO, to retain their existing superannuation arrangements with 
the State Superannuation Public Sector Scheme (QSuper), and has provided the 
Group an indemnity if the State of Queensland Treasurer requires the Group to 
pay any amounts required to meet the defined benefit obligations. An actuarial 
assessment of the fund as at 30 June 2010 has been completed which showed 
the fund to be in surplus. Existing contribution arrangements are to continue 
into the foreseeable future.

Joint venture arrangements
Refer to note 30 for details of the Group’s share of the net asset deficiencies 
in joint venture investments. The Group is required to contribute additional 
capital, if requested, to make good any deficiency under the terms of the joint 
venture agreements.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

83

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

28  Contingencies (continued)

(b)  Contingent assets
Revenue cap adjustments
The Group has a contingent asset in respect of revenue cap adjustments 
in Network Services. Access revenue is subject to a revenue cap mechanism 
that serves to ensure the network recovers its full regulated revenue over the 
regulatory period, with the majority of under or over recovery in access tariffs 
(net of take or pay charges) during a financial year being charged or refunded, 
and recognised as revenue, in the second year following the period in which 
the contractual railings were not achieved. Subject to regulatory approval and 
any adjustments resulting from below rail cause, recovery of shortfalls via the 
revenue cap of $65.3 million (2011: $46.5 million) will be received during the 
year ending 30 June 2013 ($49.2 million) and 30 June 2014 ($16.1 million).

Deficit tonnage charges
The Group has a contingent asset of $33.2 million (2011: $21.1 million) in 
respect of deficit tonnage charges relating to contracts with a period ending 30 
June 2012. Deficit tonnage charges are recognised in the period following that 
in which the service was due to be provided where the customer elects to pay 
the charges rather than reduce future tonnage entitlements.

Stamp duty
In 2010, the Group recognised an expense of $24.9 million for stamp duty 
paid in relation to the 2006 acquisition of Australian Railroad Group (“ARG”). 
The amount was paid based on an assessment issued by the WA Office of 
State Revenue and as required under the Group’s Joint Acquisition Agreement 
(“JAA”) with Brookfield Infrastructure Group (Australia) Pty Ltd (“Brookfield”) 
(previously Prime Infrastructure). Brookfield, as the primary legal party, 
subsequently appealed the assessment through a submission to the WA State 
Advisory Tribunal. Under the JAA, the above amount would be refunded to QR 
National by Brookfield upon a favourable decision.

On 9 March 2012, the Tribunal found in favour of Brookfield. In late March 
2012, the WA Office of State Revenue appealed the decision to the WA Court 
of Appeal. The appeal is expected to be heard before December 2012. The 
Group is optimistic there will be a favourable outcome and the above amount 
will be refunded to QR National by Brookfield, as there are strong legal 
arguments to support the case.

Flood recovery
The Group has incurred $6.9 million (2011: $nil) to repair the damages 
resulting from the severe flood event across Central Queensland. The Group has 
lodged a submission with Queensland Competition Authority (“QCA”) for the 
recovery of these costs as adjustments to tariffs. QCA is currently reviewing the 
submission.

Guarantees and letters of credit
For information about guarantees given to the Group, refer to note 3(d).

29  Commitments

(a)  Capital commitments

2011 
$m
Capital expenditure contracted for at the reporting date but not recognised 
as liabilities is payable as follows:

2012 
$m

Property, plant and equipment

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than  
five years

254.2

2.3

256.4

353.4

–

353.4

(b)  Lease commitments

Commitments for minimum lease payments in relation to non-cancellable 
operating leases (excluding GST) are payable as follows:

Within one year

46.8

46.2

Later than one year but not later than  
five years

Later than five years

56.7

3.9

107.4

81.0

6.9

134.1

The above commitments flow primarily from operating leases of property and 
machinery. These leases, with terms mostly ranging from one to ten years, 
generally provide the Group with a right of renewal, at which times the lease 
terms are renegotiated. The lease payments comprise a base amount, while 
the property leases also contain a contingent rental, which is based on either 
the movements in the Consumer Price Index or another fixed percentage as 
agreed between the parties.

(c)  Lease commitments receivable: where the Group is the lessor

Some fixed assets are leased to tenants with rents payable monthly. 
Minimum lease payments (excluding GST) not recognised in the financial 
statements are receivable as follows:

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than  
five years

Later than five years

8.2

6.2

7.2

21.6

5.9

9.3

8.0

23.2

84

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

30  Interests in joint ventures and associates

(a)  Joint venture operation
The Group has an interest in the Nickel West Land Logistics Joint Venture 
Agreement. The Group severally provides rail freight services under this 
agreement, and the joint venture partner severally provides road freight 
services. There are no assets jointly controlled by the operation.

(b)  Jointly controlled assets
The Group has a 33.3% (2011: 33.3%) participating interest in a joint venture 
through its wholly owned subsidiary, QR Surat Basin Pty Ltd, together with two 
other parties.

The Group’s share of the joint assets, any liabilities that it has incurred directly 
and its share of any liabilities incurred jointly with the other venturers, income 
from the sale or use of its share of the output of the joint venture, its share 
of expenses incurred by the joint venture, and expenses incurred directly in 
respect of its interest in the joint venture, are detailed below.

The amounts are included in the consolidated financial statements under their 
respective asset, liability, income and expense categories:

Group’s share of:

Current assets

Non-current assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Total net assets

Revenue

Expenses

Tax benefit

Net profit/(loss) after tax

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

1.0

8.7

(1.2)

(9.3)

(0.8)

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.3

2.5

(0.1)

(3.9)

(1.2)

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

The balance sheet and income statement is based on the unaudited financial 
statements of the Surat Basin Rail joint venture as at 30 June 2012 (2011:  
30 June 2011).

Under Clause 7.3 of the QR Surat Basin Pty Ltd Joint Venture Agreement dated 
4 December 2006, the Project Director may call for additional contributions of 
funding from the participants in order to fund any expenditure incurred or to 
be incurred.

(c)  Joint venture entities
The joint venture entities in which the Group has an interest and which are 
equity accounted in the financial statements are as follows:

Name
CHCQ

Country of 
operation
China-Hong Kong

Chun Wo/CRGL

China-Hong Kong

KMQR Sdn Bhd

Malaysia

ARG Risk 
Management 
Limited

QLM Pty Ltd

Australia

Australia

(i)  Movements in carrying amounts

Carrying amount at the beginning of the 
financial year

Share of profits after income tax

Dividends received/receivable

Carrying amount at the end of the  
financial year

Ownership 
interest

2012 
%

15

20

30

50

50

2011 
%
15

20

30

50

50

Principal 
activity
Construction

Construction

Consulting

Insurance

Dormant

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

0.5

0.0

0.0

0.5

0.5

0.0

0.0

0.5

(ii)  Share of joint ventures’ assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses and results

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

Group’s share of: 

Current assets

Non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Total net assets

Revenue

Expenses

Profit before income tax

Tax

Profit after income tax                                                                                                                

2.2

0.0

2.2

(1.7)

0.0

(1.7)

0.5

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

2.2

0.0

2.2

(1.7)

0.0

(1.7)

0.5

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

85

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

30  Interests in joint ventures and associates (continued)

31  Related party transactions

(d)  Investments in associates
(i)  Movement in carrying values

(a)  Parent entities
The parent and ultimate parent entity within the Group is QR National Limited.

Opening balance

Additional investments

Transfer from available-for-sale investments

Share of profit in associates

Closing balance (note 14)

(ii)  Fair value of unlisted investments in associates

Moorebank Industrial Property Trust

2012 
$m

–

41.1

36.3

0.1

77.5

2012 
$m

77.5

2011 
$m

–

–

–

–

–

2011 
$m

–

(iii)  Summarised financial information of associates 

The Group’s share of the results of its principal associates and its aggregated 
assets (including goodwill) and liabilities are as follows:

Company’s share of:

Ownership
Interest %

Assets
$m

Liabilities
$m

Revenues
$m

Profit
$m

2012
Moorebank 
Industrial  
Property Trust

33.0

78.2

0.7

–

–

(iv)  Contingent liabilities of associates

Share of contingent liabilities incurred 
jointly with other investors

Contingent liabilities relating to liabilities  
of the associate for which the company
is severally liable

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

–

–

–

–

–

–

(b)  Subsidiaries
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets, liabilities and 
results of the following principal subsidiaries in accordance with the accounting 
policy described in note 1(b):

Name of entity

QR Limited

Country of 
incorporation

Australia

QR Intermodal Pty Ltd Australia

Class of 
shares 

Ordinary

Ordinary

Equity holding 

2012
%

2011
%

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

Interail Australia 
Pty Ltd

Logistics Australasia 
Pty Ltd

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Golden Bros. 
Group Pty Ltd

CRT Group Pty Ltd

NHK Pty Ltd

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australian Rail Pty Ltd Australia

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

Australian Eastern 
Railroad Pty Ltd
Australian 
Railroad 
Group 
Employment 
Pty Ltd

Australian Western 
Railroad Pty Ltd
AWR Lease  
Co Pty Ltd

QR Network Pty Ltd

QR Surat Basin 
Pty Ltd

QRN Property Holding 
Pty Ltd

QRN Property  
Pty Ltd
QRN Terminal 
Pty Ltd

QRN Moorebank 
Holdings Pty Ltd
QRN Moorebank  
Pty Ltd

QRN Moorebank 
Unit Trust

QRN Finance Pty Ltd

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Australia

Australia

Ordinary

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

Australia

Ordinary

100.0

Australia

Australia

Units

Ordinary

100.0

100.0

–

–

–

100.0

(c)  Key Management Personnel
Disclosures relating to Key Management Personnel are set out in note 27.

86

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

31  Related party transactions (continued)

32  Business combination

(d)  Transactions with other related parties
The following transactions occurred with related parties:

Dividend revenue - other related parties

2012 
$’000

7

2011 
$’000

39

(e)   Terms and conditions of transactions with related parties other than 

Key Management Personnel or entities related to them

All other transactions, other than those with the State as described below, were 
made on normal commercial terms and conditions and at market rates, except 
that there are no fixed terms for the repayment of loans between the parent 
and its subsidiaries. All loans are non interest bearing. Outstanding balances 
are unsecured.

(f)   Transactions with State of Queensland controlled entities
Until its 22 November 2010 listing on the ASX, the Group was a Queensland 
Government Owned Corporation, with all shares held by the Shareholding 
Ministers, on behalf of the State. Following listing, the State retained a 34.0% 
interest in the Company, which reduced to 33.7% in December 2011. The 
State remains a related party to the Group.

Queensland Treasury Corporation (“QTC”) borrowings of $4,388.3 million were 
replaced by a capital contribution from the State via Transfer Notice just prior 
to the listing on the ASX. Interest expense of $140.7 million was paid to QTC 
during the prior financial year. A dividend of $86.4 million was paid to the 
State prior to listing.

Transport Services Contracts
The Group has entered into Transport Service Contracts (“TSCs”) with the 
State (acting through the Department of Transport and Main Roads) to 
provide general freight and livestock transportation services. The contracts 
commenced on 1 July 2010 and expire on 30 June 2015 and 31 December 
2015 respectively.

Under the contracts, for the initial two and a half years, the Group will  
receive monthly base payments and quarterly payments in aggregate  
totalling $150.0 million for the year ended 30 June 2011, $148.1 million  
for the year ended 30 June 2012 and $75.1 million for the six months ended  
31 December 2012.

After 31 December 2012, and until expiry of the contract, there is a process 
to calculate payment amounts for the services then required by the State as 
detailed in the contract.

In addition, the contracts provide for additional payments of $90.0 million 
(general freight) and $13.0 million (livestock) between 31 December 2012 
and the expiry of the contracts relating to services provided over the life of the 
contracts (refer to note 5).

Service contracts with Queensland Rail
There exist a number of related party transactions between the Group and 
Queensland Rail Limited (“Queensland Rail”) arising from the separation of 
Queensland Rail from the Group on 30 June 2010. These transactions relate 
to service contracts (entered into between the parties) that are broadly priced 
on the basis of cost recovery plus a profit margin. At the conclusion of each 
contract (tenors range between one and five years), they will ordinarily be 
renegotiated by business as usual tender processes.

The largest service contracts (by financial value) are for the provision of 
maintenance services; repairs, manufacture and overhaul of rollingstock; hook 
and pull services for passenger rollingstock; IT services; and stowing services.

(a)  Summary of acquisition
There were no acquisitions undertaken in the current year.

During the prior year, CRT Group Pty Ltd acquired assets and liabilities that 
were considered to constitute a business of Isa Freight Express. The acquisition 
occurred in two Tranches, in July 2010 and October 2010. In June 2011,  
CRT Group Pty Ltd acquired assets and liabilities that were considered to 
constitute a business of Pittman Transport Pty Ltd. These businesses were 
acquired for $12.3 million. 

(b)  Cash flow information

Outflow of cash to acquire business, net of 
cash acquired

Cash consideration

Less: balances acquired

Cash

Outflow of cash - investing activities

(c)  Assets and liabilities acquired

Plant and equipment   

Provisions

Net identifiable assets acquired

Add: Goodwill

Net assets acquired

33  Deed of cross guarantee

2012 
$m

2011 
$m

–

–

–

12.3

–

12.3

30 June 2011

Acquiree’s 
carrying 
amount
$m

 12.2

(0.2)

12.0

Fair  
value

$m

 12.2

(0.2)

12.0

 0.3

  12.3

QR National Limited, QRN Finance Pty Ltd, QRN Property Holding Pty Ltd, QRN 
Property Pty Ltd, QRN Terminal Pty Ltd, QR Limited, QR Intermodal Pty Ltd, 
Logistics Australasia Pty Ltd, Golden Bros. Group Pty Ltd, CRT Group Pty Ltd, 
Interail Australia Pty Ltd, Australian Rail Pty Ltd, Australia Eastern Railroad Pty 
Ltd, Australia Western Railroad Pty Ltd, Australian Railroad Group Employment 
Pty Ltd and QR Network Pty Ltd (the “QR National Deed Parties”, and each a 
“QR National Deed Party”) entered into a Deed of Cross Guarantee dated 11 
March 2011 (the “Cross Guarantee”) with QR National Limited as the ‘Holding 
Entity’, under which each QR National Deed Party guarantees the debts of 
each other QR National Deed Party. By entering into the new Deed and lodging 
it with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (“ASIC”) on 29 
March 2011, the wholly-owned QR National Deed Parties have been relieved 
from the requirement to prepare separate financial and Directors’ reports by 
the operation of ASIC Class Order 98/1418 (as amended) (the “Class Order”). 
The cross guarantee became effective on lodgement with ASIC on 29 March 
2011.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

87

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

33  Deed of cross guarantee (continued) 

(a) 

 Consolidated income statement, consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income and summary of movements in consolidated 
retained earnings

The QR National Deed Parties represent the ‘closed group’ for the purposes of 
the Class Order, and as there are no other parties to the cross guarantee that  
are controlled by QR National Limited, they also represent the ‘extended  
closed group’.

The results of all the QR National Deed Parties are presented below in the 
consolidated income statement, a consolidated statement of comprehensive 
income, and a summary of movements in consolidated retained earnings. 
This represents the results of the Group, excluding On Track Insurance Pty Ltd, 
NHK Pty Ltd, AWR Lease Co Pty Ltd, QRN Moorebank Holdings Pty Ltd, QRN 
Moorebank Pty Ltd, QRN Moorebank Unit Trust and QR Surat Basin Pty Ltd.

Income statement

Revenue from continuing operations

Other income

Consumables

Employee benefits expense

Depreciation and amortisation expense

Other expenses

Finance costs

Share of net profits of associates and joint 
venture partnership accounted for using the 
equity method

Profit before income tax

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit for the year

Statement of comprehensive income

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income 

Cash flow hedges 

Income tax relating to components of other 
comprehensive income 

Other comprehensive income  
for the year, net of tax

Total comprehensive income for the year

2012 
$m

2011(1) 
$m

3,469.1

130.2

(1,400.1)

(1,132.6)

(463.5)

(41.6)

(41.5)

0.2

547.2

(117.7)

429.5

3,195.0

148.4

(1,330.4)

(1,220.5)

(456.8)

(63.2)

(141.2)

0.0

131.3

280.5

411.8

429.5

411.8

0.4

(0.1)

0.3

429.8

(0.4)

0.1

(0.3)

411.5

Summary of movements in consolidated 
retained earnings

Retained earnings at the beginning of the 
financial year

Profit for the year

Dividends provided for or paid

Disposal of subsidiary                                                                                                                    

Retained earnings at the end of the 
financial year   

2012 
$m

2011(1) 
$m

927.1

564.2

429.5

(180.6)

–

411.8

 (86.4)

 37.5

1,176.0

927.1

(b)  Consolidated balance sheet
The balance sheet of the parties to the Deed of Cross Guarantee at each 
reporting date is presented below.

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Inventories

Derivative financial instruments

Other assets

Assets classified as held for sale

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Other assets

Inventories

2012 
$m

98.5

549.8

215.8

0.1

8.0

8.7

881.0

0.5

8.7

2011(1) 
$m

117.0

480.9

177.6

21.3

10.3

–

807.1

37.0

20.7

Property, plant and equipment

9,012.1

8,305.6

Intangibles

Investments accounted for using the equity 
method

Derivative financial instruments

Other financial assets

Total non-current assets

16.6

0.5

-

18.8

24.9

0.5

3.5

18.8

9,057.2

8,411.0

Total assets

9,938.1

9,218.1

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a 
result of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after 
these adjustments.

88

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

Net assets

7,292.3

7,035.9

Fair value adjustment to derivatives

33  Deed of cross guarantee (continued)

(b)  Consolidated balance sheet (continued)

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Derivative financial instruments

Provisions

Other liabilities

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

Borrowings

Deferred tax liabilities

Provisions

Other liabilities

2012 
$m

348.4

1.3

379.2

37.5

766.4

2.0

1,201.6

366.8

81.3

227.7

2011(1) 
$m

309.9

27.3

320.3

36.2

693.7

3.8

803.2

257.2

81.3

343.0

Total non-current liabilities

1,879.4

1,488.5

Total liabilities

2,645.8

2,182.2

Equity

Contributed equity

Reserves

Retained earnings

Total equity

6,119.1

(2.8)

1,176.0

7,292.3

6,111.9

(3.1)

927.1

7,035.9

34  Remuneration of auditors

During the year the following fees were paid or payable for services provided by 
the auditor of the parent entity, its related practices and non-related audit firms:

PwC Australia

Audit and other assurance services

Audit and review of financial statements

1,670

1,956

2012 
$’000

2011 
$’000

Other assurance services

Audit of regulatory returns

Other assurance services

Total remuneration for audit and other 
assurance services

Taxation services

Tax advisory services

Other services

Advisory services

230

79

35

48

1,979

2,039

539

1,225

1,619

3,153

Total remuneration of PwC Australia

2012 
$’000

4,137

2011 
$’000

6,417

Auditor remuneration in the prior year includes $3,439,000 of non-audit 
services performed prior to listing on 22 November 2010 and prior to the 
appointment of PwC as auditor of the Company.

35  Reconciliation of profit after income tax to net cash inflow 

from operating activities 

Profit for the year

Depreciation and amortisation

Impairment of non-current assets

Impairment of financial assets

Non-cash employee benefits expense - 
share-based payments

Interest capitalised to qualifying assets

Net (gain) loss on sale of non-current assets

Inventory obsolescence

Amortisation of prepaid access facilitation 
deed charges

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

(Increase) in trade debtors

(Increase) in inventories

(Increase) decrease in other operating 
assets

(Decrease) increase in trade and other 
payables

(Decrease) increase in other operating 
liabilities

(Decrease) increase in other provisions

Net cash inflow (outflow) from operating 
activities

2012 
$m

  440.9

 463.7

–

0.7

7.2

(45.4)

(16.2)

2.9

(28.5)

(0.6)

(75.4)

(29.1)

27.2

36.2

81.9

58.9

2011(1) 
$m

360.9

457.2

2.2

0.5

12.0

(41.4)

2.1

2.4

(26.4)

5.3

67.6

 (9.5)

 0.8

 (29.6)

(259.0)

40.0

924.4

585.1

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result 
of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these 
adjustments.

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

89

36  Earnings per share

(a)  Basic earnings per share

Total basic and diluted earnings per share 
attributable to the ordinary equity holders 
of the Company

2012 
Cents

2011(1)
Cents

18.1

15.4

(b)  Reconciliation of earnings used in calculating earnings per share

Basic and diluted earnings per share

Profit from continuing operations

440.9

360.9

2012 
$m

2011(1) 
$m

(c)  Weighted average number of shares used as denominator

2012 
Number
’000

2011
Number 
’000

Weighted average number of ordinary shares 
used as the denominator in calculating basic 
and diluted earnings per share

2,440,000 

2,339,726

(d)  Information on the classification of securities
All shares issued by QR National Limited are fully paid ordinary shares that 
participate equally in profit distributions.

(1) Refer to note 1(q) for explanations of retrospective adjustments recognised as a result 
of a change in accounting policy. The amounts disclosed in this note are after these 
adjustments.

37  Share-based payments 

(a)  Performance rights plan
The Performance Rights Plan was established by the Board of Directors 
to provide long-term incentives to the Group’s senior executives based on 
shareholder returns taking into account the Group’s financial and operational 
performance. Under the Plan, eligible executives may be granted rights 
on terms and conditions determined by the Board from time to time. 
Participation in the plan is at the Board’s discretion so that no individual 
has a contractual right to be awarded rights under the plan or to receive any 
guaranteed benefits.

The Board will determine the exercise price payable on exercise of a vested 
right, and the exercise period of a right. The Board may, at its discretion, 
determine that early vesting of a right will occur if there is a takeover bid, 
scheme of arrangement or some other change of control transaction of 
the Group. The Board may also accelerate the vesting of some or all of the 
rights held by an executive in specified circumstances. These include, but 
are not limited to, death, total and permanent disablement, or cessation of 
employment.

Performance rights are granted by the Company for nil consideration. Each 
right is a right to receive one fully-paid ordinary share in QR National Limited 
at no cost if the vesting conditions are satisfied. Rights granted under the plan 
carry no dividend or voting rights.

Deferred Short-term Incentive Award (“STIAD”)
The STIAD was implemented in the 2011 financial year under which rights to 
the value of 50% of the cash Short-term Incentive Awards (“STIA”) received by 
eligible executives would be granted as rights to ordinary shares. The rights will 
vest equally over a two-year period, and become exercisable, provided that the 
executive remains employed by the group at the vesting date, unless otherwise 
determined by the Board.

The CEO was granted rights under STIAD on listing based on the likelihood of 
achieving EBITDA performance hurdles.

Long-term Incentive Award (“LTIA”)
Performance rights are granted to senior executives as part of the Group’s 
LTIA. The first grant of LTIA rights was in November 2010. The rights are 
subject to the executives remaining employed by the Group and satisfying 
market-based performance hurdles of Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) and 
non-market-based EPS and EBIT targets. The proportion of the LTIA rights 
that become exercisable will depend upon the TSR achieved by the Group, 
relative to a peer group of companies over a three-year period. The peer group 
comprises the companies in the ASX Top 100 index, other than financial, 
medical, telecommunications, pharmaceutical and gaming companies. To 
determine to what extent the TSR-related performance rights will vest, the TSR 
of the Group, over the performance period, will be compared to the TSR of all 
the companies in the peer group. Each of these peer companies will be ranked 
from highest to lowest based on their TSR over the performance period and the 
number of rights that vest will depend on where the group is ranked amongst 
the peer group. For the purposes of calculating the TSR measurement, the 
relevant share prices will be determined by reference to the volume weighted 
average share price over the 20 business days after the grant date and 20 
business days before the end of the performance period.

90

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

notes to the Consolidated FinanCial statements
30 June 2012

37  Share-based payments (continued)

(a)  Performance rights plan (continued)
Retentions
At the Board’s discretion, eligible executives may be granted retention rights 
that may vest at the end of the specified retention period, provided that the 
executive remains employed by the Group at the vesting date.

Set out below are summaries of rights granted under the plan:

Balance 
at start 
of the 
year
Number 
‘000 

667

4,582

–

5,249

–

–

–

2012

STIAD

LTI

Retentions

Total

2011

STIAD

LTI

Total

Granted 
during 
the year
Number 
‘000

Exercised 
during 
the year
Number 
‘000

Forfeited 
during 
the year
Number 
‘000

Balance 
at the 
end of 
the year
Number 
‘000

1,573

3,774

476

5,823

667

4,582

5,249

(333)

(93)

(56)

(482)

–

–

–

(192)

(544)

–

(736)

–

–

–

1,715

7,719

420

9,854

667

4,582

5,249

The key assumptions adopted for the valuation of performance rights granted 
during 2012 are contained below:

STIAD

LTIA

Tranche

Year 1

Year 2

TSR

EBIT/EPS

Grant date

28 Sep 2011

28 Sep 2011

22 Aug 2011 22 Aug 2011

Vesting date

28 Sep 2012

28 Sep 2013

30 Jun 2014

30 Jun 2014

Share price at 
grant date

$3.17

Expected life

1 year

Dividend yield 3.05%

Fair value

$3.08

$3.17

2 years

3.05%

$2.99

$3.25

$3.25

3.5 years

3.5 years

3.05%

$1.28

3.05%

$2.93

2011
The valuation of rights granted under the STIAD for the CEO was estimated 
with reference to historical EBIT performance from previous years for the QR 
Limited Group for which the Company became the parent on 21 September 
2010. Given the limited data, this was considered the best proxy available. For 
other executives, the fair value is based on 50% of their cash STIA.

The fair value of performance rights granted under the LTI was determined 
independently by Deloitte using the Monte-Carlo valuation method. The model 
takes into account a range of assumptions and the fair values have been 
calculated including the assumptions below:

The weighted average exercise price of rights granted during the year was nil 
(2011: nil), as the rights have no exercise price.

The weighted average share price at the date of exercise for rights exercised 
during the period was $3.24. 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of share rights outstanding at 
30 June 2012 was 1.4 years (2011: 2.2 years).

Grant date 

Vesting date 

Exercise price

Volatility

Risk free interest rate

Fair value of rights

2012
In determining the fair value below standard market techniques for valuation 
were applied in accordance with AASB2. The fair value of the STIAD and the 
portion of LTIA rights, that are subject to non-market based performance 
conditions, are determined by the share price at grant date less an adjustment 
for estimated dividends payable during the vesting period. The fair value of 
the LTIA rights subject to the TSR market based performance condition has 
been calculated using an expected vesting under the TSR performance test and 
applying it to the share price at grant date. In estimating expected vesting it, 
was assumed an equal chance that each company in the TSR peer group may 
finish the performance period ranked at any position within the group. Analysis 
was performed comparing this approach to the Monte-Carlo simulation 
conducted in the prior year and resulted in similar outcomes.

TSR

EPS

22 Nov 2010

22 Nov 2011

22 Nov 2013

30 Sep 2013

n/a

30%

5.25%

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

3.5

$2.54

$1.14

Dividend yield - 2011 financial year

2.1% - 2.5%

Dividend yield - 2012 financial year

2.8% - 3.3%

Expected life (years)

Share price at grant date

Fair value per right

3.5

$2.54

$0.94

As the company did not have historical share price data, the volatility of peer 
companies, Qantas, Asciano and Toll were used as a proxy. The expected 
volatility of the share price of each company’s in the peer group is determined 
based on the historical volatility of that company’s share price. Two years of 
historic volatility for each peer company were used. It was deemed appropriate 
to exclude the abnormal volatility score through the height of the Global 
Financial Crisis.

(b)  Expenses arising from share-based payment transactions
Total expenses arising from share-based payment transactions recognised 
during the period, as part of employee benefit expense, was $8.7 million  
(2011: $11.9 million, including shares to the value of $9.0 million gifted to 
eligible employees from the State in relation to the IPO).

notes to the Consolidated 
FinanCial statements  
30 June 2012

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

91

direCtors’ deClaration

38  Parent entity financial information

(a)  Summary financial information
The individual financial statements for the parent entity show the following 
aggregate amounts below.

In accordance with a resolution of the Directors of the Company, I state that: 
In the opinion of the Directors of the Company:

(a) 

 the financial statements and notes set out on pages 46 to 91 are in 
accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:

Current assets

Non-current assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Net assets

Shareholders' equity

Contributed equity

Retained earnings

Total equity

2012 
$m

7.8

2011 
$m

0.0

6,121.3

6,149.6

(7.9)

(2.0)

6,119.2

–

(37.6)

6,112.0

(i) 

 complying with Accounting Standards and other mandatory 
professional reporting requirements as detailed above, and the 
Corporations Regulations 2001; and

(ii)    giving a true and fair view of the consolidated entity’s financial 
position as at 30 June 2012 and of its performance for the year  
ended on that date, and

(b) 

 there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be  
able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable, and

6,119.1

6,111.9

(c) 

0.1

0.1

6,119.2

6,112.0

 at the date of this declaration, there are reasonable grounds to believe  
the members of the extended closed group identified in note 33 will 
be able to meet any obligations or liabilities to which they are, or may 
become, subject by virtue of the Deed of Cross Guarantee described in  
note 33.

Note 1(a) confirms that the financial statements also comply with 
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International 
Accounting Standards Board.

The Directors have been given the declarations by the Chief Executive  
Officer and Chief Financial Officer required by section 295A of the  
Corporations Act 2001.

John B Prescott AC 
Chairman

Brisbane QLD 
23 August 2012

Profit or loss for the year

Total comprehensive income

–

–

0.1

0.1

The parent entity has several employees. All costs associated with these 
employees are borne by a subsidiary of the parent entity and are not included 
in the above disclosures.

(b)  Guarantees entered into by the parent entity
There are cross guarantees given by QR National Limited, QR Limited, QRN 
Finance Pty Ltd, QRN Property Holding Pty Ltd, QRN Terminal Pty Ltd, QRN 
Property Pty Ltd, QR Intermodal Pty Ltd, Logistics Australasia Pty Ltd, Golden 
Bros. Group Pty Ltd, CRT Group Pty Ltd, Interail Australia Pty Ltd, Australian  
Rail Pty Ltd, Australia Eastern Railroad Pty Ltd, Australia Western Railroad Pty 
Ltd, Australian Railroad Group Employment Pty Ltd and QR Network Pty Ltd  
as described in note 33.

(c)  Contingent liabilities of the parent entity
The parent entity did not have any material contingent liabilities as at  
30 June 2012 or 30 June 2011. For information about guarantees given  
by the parent entity, please see above.

(d) 

 Contractual commitments for the acquisition of property, plant  
or equipment

As at 30 June 2012, the parent entity did not have any contractual 
commitments for the acquisition of property, plant or equipment (2011: nil).

39  Events occurring after the reporting period

On 23 August 2012 QR National Limited , after considering cash forecasts  
and current balance sheet, announced to the ASX an on market program  
to buy-back up to 10% of its issued share capital (244 million shares). 

On 5 June 2012, the Group announced the commencement of its consultation 
process on the voluntary redundancy program as a result of a further strategic 
review and restructure of the workforce. As at the date of this report, the 
Group has determined to accept approximately 750 voluntary redundancy 
applications at a one-off cost estimated at $75 million to be incurred in 
the 2013 financial year. The expected payback period in respect of this is 
approximately 12 months. 

 
 
92

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

independent auditor’s report to the members oF 
qr national limited

Report on the financial report 

We have audited the accompanying financial report of QR National Limited (the company), which comprises the 
balance sheet as at 30 June 2012, and the income statement, the statement of comprehensive income, statement  
of changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year ended on that date, a summary of significant 
accounting policies, other explanatory notes and the directors’ declaration for the QR National Limited Group  
(the consolidated entity). The consolidated entity comprises the company and the entities it controlled at the year’s 
end or from time to time during the financial year.

Directors’ responsibility for the financial report

The directors of the company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair  
view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 2001 and for such internal  
control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that is free from 
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In Note 1, the directors also state, in accordance with 
Accounting Standard AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements, that the financial statements comply with 
International Financial Reporting Standards.

Auditor’s responsibility 

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our audit in 
accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant 
ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance 
whether the financial report is free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial 
report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material 
misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor 
considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to 
design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion 
on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness  
of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the directors, as well as 
evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report.

Our procedures include reading the other information in the Annual Report to determine whether it contains any 
material inconsistencies with the financial report.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our  
audit opinions. 

Independence

In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

93

independent auditor’s report to the members oF 
qr national limited

Auditor’s opinion 

In our opinion:

(a)  the financial report of QR National Limited is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:

(i)  giving a true and fair view of the consolidated entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2012 and of its 

performance for the year ended on that date; and

(ii)  complying with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations)  

and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and

(b)   the financial report and notes also comply with International Financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in  

Note 1.

Report on the Remuneration Report

We have audited the remuneration report included in pages 24 to 38 of the directors’ report for the year ended  
30 June 2012. The directors of the company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration 
report in accordance with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on 
the remuneration report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards.

Auditor’s opinion 

In our opinion, the remuneration report of QR National Limited for the year ended 30 June 2012, complies with 
section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001.

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Robert Hubbard 
Partner

Brisbane
23 August 2012

94

ANNuAL REPORT 2011–12

shareholder inFormation

Range of Fully Paid Ordinary Shares as at 17 August 2012 

Range

1 – 1,000

1,001 – 5,000

5,001 – 10,000

10,001 – 100,000

100,001 – 999,999,999

1,000,000,000 – 9,999,999,999

Rounding

Total

Unmarketable Parcels

Total holders

22,401

28,922

3,856

3,425

141

0

58,745

Units

14,723,485

64,856,589

28,290,169

65,619,839

2,266,509,918

0

2,440,000,000

Minimum $ 500.00 parcel at $ 3.35 per unit

Minimum Parcel Size

150

Holders

528

The number of shareholders holding less than the marketable parcel of shares is 528 (shares: 27,427).

Substantial Holders of 5% or more of Fully Paid Ordinary Shares as at 17 August 2012*  

% of Issued Capital

0.60

2.66

1.16

2.69

92.89

0.00

0.00

100

Units

27,427

Name

Notice date

Shares

Queensland Treasury Holdings Pty Ltd, Gerard Bradley (Under Treasurer of the State of Queensland)

3 December 2010

829,600,000

Perpetual Limited

Children’s Investment Fund Management

Commonwealth Bank of Australia and its subsidiaries

*As disclosed in substantial shareholder notices received by the Company.

16 July 2012

8 May 2012

23 August 2011

150,152,065

125,051,143

122,611,329

Investor Calendar

2013 Dates

21 February 2013

29 March 2013

22 August 2013

30 September 2013

7 November 2013

Details

Half year results and interim dividend announcement

Interim dividend payment date

Full Year results and final dividend announcement

Final dividend payment date

Annual General Meeting

Note:
  The payment of a dividend is subject to the Corporations Act and Board discretion.  
The timing of any event listed above may change. Please refer regularly to the QR National website, www.qrnational.com.au, for an up-to-date list of upcoming events.

ASX code: QRN

Contact details

QR National
GPO Box 456 
Brisbane, Qld, 4001

Investor Relations

For all information about your shareholding, including employee  
shareholdings, dividend statements and change of address, contact  
the share registry Computershare on 1800 776 476 or visit  

www.investorcentre.com/au

For general enquiries, please call 13 23 32 within Australia.
If you are calling from outside Australia, please dial +61 7 3019 5555

To request information relating to Investor Relations please contact  
our Investor Relations team on +61 7 3019 5451 or email:   

www.qrnational.com.au

investor.relations@qrnational.com.au

FINANCIAL REPORT  |  QR NATIONAL

95

shareholder inFormation

Top 20 Holders of Fully Paid Ordinary Shares as at  17 August 2012

Name

Address

Units

% of 
Units

QUEENSLAND TREASURY HOLDINGS PTY LTD

LEVEL 14, QLD MINERALS AND ENERGY CENTRE, 
61 MARY STREET, BRISBANE QLD, 4000

821,507,659

33.67

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED

GPO BOX 5302, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

485,355,502

19.89

NATIONAL NOMINEES LIMITED

GPO BOX 1406, MELBOURNE VIC, 3001

255,183,965

10.46

J P MORGAN NOMINEES AUSTRALIA LIMITED

LOCKED BAG 7, ROYAL EXCHANGE NSW, 1225

195,650,244

8.02

CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED

GPO BOX 764G, MELBOURNE VIC, 3001

124,188,498

5.09

JP MORGAN NOMINEES AUSTRALIA LIMITED 

LOCKED BAG 20049, MELBOURNE VIC, 3001

82,310,862

3.37

RBC INVESTOR SERVICES AUSTRALIA NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 

GPO BOX 5430, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

71,234,259

2.92

BNP PARIBAS NOMS PTY LTD 

PO BOX R209, ROYAL EXCHANGE NSW, 1225

47,094,652

1.93

BNP PARIBAS NOMS PTY LTD 

PO BOX R209, ROYAL EXCHANGE NSW, 1225

21,043,500

0.86

CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 

GPO BOX 764G, MELBOURNE VIC, 3001

20,572,605

0.84

RBC INVESTOR SERVICES AUSTRALIA NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 

GPO BOX 5430, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

10,479,393

0.43

AMP LIFE LIMITED

PO BOX R209, ROYAL EXCHANGE NSW, 1225

9,798,957

0.40

RBC INVESTOR SERVICES AUSTRALIA NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 

GPO BOX 5430, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

9,159,581

0.38

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED 

GPO BOX 5302, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

8,005,020

0.33

BNP PARIBAS NOMS PTY LTD 

PO BOX R209, ROYAL EXCHANGE NSW, 1225

7,190,207

0.29

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED - A/C 2

GPO BOX 5302, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

6,268,830

0.26

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED - A/C 3

GPO BOX 5302, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

5,871,177

0.24

RBC INVESTOR SERVICES AUSTRALIA NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 

GPO BOX 5430, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

5,857,108

0.24

UBS NOMINEES PTY LTD 

LEVEL 16 CHIFLEY TOWER, 2 CHIFLEY SQUARE, 
SYDNEY NSW, 2000

5,756,656

0.24

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED-GSCO ECA

GPO BOX 5302, SYDNEY NSW, 2001

5,741,207

0.24

Totals: Top 20 holders of ORDINARY FULLY PAID SHARES (TOTAL)

Total Remaining Holders Balance

2,198,269,882

90.09

241,730,118

9.91

96

ANNuAL REPORT 2011/12

Glossary

Some terms and abbreviations used in this document, together with industry specific terms, have defined meanings.   
These terms and abbreviations are set out in this glossary and are used throughout this document.

A reference to dollars, $ or cents in this document is a reference to Australian currency unless otherwise stated.  Any reference to a statute, 
ordinance, code or other law includes regulations and any other  instruments under it and consolidations, amendments, re-enactments or 
replacements of any of them.  Any reference to Annual Report is a reference to this document.

ABN 
Australian Business Number

CPS 
Cents per share

above rail   
Rollingstock—including locomotives 
and wagons and associated 
infrastructure (e.g. maintenance and 
operational depots)

CQCN 
Central Queensland Coal Network

CQIRP 
Central Queensland Integrated Rail 
Project

ACN 
Australian Company Number

DTC 
Deficit Tonnage Charges

ASIC 
Australian Securities and Investments 
Commission

ASX 
Australian Securities Exchange 
operated by ASX Limited (ABN 98 
008 624 691)

ASX Listing Rules 
The official listing rules of ASX

below rail   
Track, electric infrastructure, signalling 
and associated rail infrastructure

Board 
The Board of Directors of QR National 
Limited

CAGR 
Compound annual growth rate, 
expressed as a percentage per year 

CGT  
Capital Gains Tax

Coal 
The above rail coal haulage operating 
division of QR National

Company or QR National  
QR National Limited (ACN 146 335 
622), and where the context requires, 
includes any of its subsidiaries and 
controlled entities

Company Secretary 
The company secretary of  
QR National Limited

Constitution 
The constitution of QR National 
Limited

Corporations Act  
Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)

EBIT 
Earnings before interest and tax

EBITDA 
Earnings before interest, tax, 
depreciation and amortisation

EBIT Margin 
Underlying earnings before interest 
and tax divided by total revenue and 
other income

EEO 
Energy Efficiency Opportunity

EEO Act 
Energy Efficiency Opportunity Act 
2006 (Cth) 

EPS 
Earnings Per Share

Freight 
The above rail freight haulage 
operating division of QR National

FY 
Financial year ended 30 June, as the 
context requires

GAP 
Goonyella to Abbot Point

GAPE 
Gonyella to Abbot Point Expansion 

GAAP 
Generally Accepted Accounting 
Principles

IBNR 
Incurred but not reported

IFRS 
International Financial Reporting 
Standards

km 
kilometre 

LTIA 
Long-term Incentive Awards

LTIFR 
Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate, 
being a measure of the number of 
lost time injuries per million hours 
worked over a 12 month period

MTIFR 
Medically Treated Injury Frequency 
Rate, being a measure of the number 
of medically treated injuries per 
million hours worked over a 12 month 
period

MAR 
Maximum Allowable Revenue that 
QR Network Pty Ltd is entitled to earn 
from the provision of coal carrying 
train services in the CQCN across the 
term of an access undertaking

mt 
Millions of tonnes

mtpa 
Millions of tonnes per annum

Network 
QR Network Pty Ltd (ACN 132 181 
116), a wholly owned subsidiary of 
QR National 

Network Services 
The Network Services operating 
division of QR National

NGER 
National Greenhouse Energy 
Reporting

NGER Act   
National Greenhouse Energy 
Reporting Act 2007 (Cth)

ntk 
Net tonne kilometre, unit of measure 
representing the movement over 
a distance of one kilometre of one 
tonne of contents excluding the 
weight of the locomotive and wagons

operating ratio 
1 – EBIT margin, expressed as a 
percentage

OPEX 
Operating expense including 
depreciation and amortisation

PPT 
Percentage point

QCA 
Queensland Competition Authority

QR National or Company 
QR National Limited (ACN 146 335 
622), and where the context requires, 
includes any of its subsidiaries and 
controlled entities

Queensland Rail 
Queensland Rail Limited (ACN 132 
181 090)—this entity is owned by the 
State and operates the core public rail 
passenger business

RAB 
Regulated Asset Base the value of 
the asset base on which pricing is 
determined by the price regulator

ROIC 
Return on Invested Capital

share 
A fully paid ordinary share in  
QR National

STIA 
Short-term Incentive Award

tonne 
One metric tonne, being 1,000 
kilograms

tonne kilometres  
The product of tonnes and distance

TSC 
Transport Services Contract entered 
into between the Queensland State 
Government and the Company for 
the provision of regional freight and 
livestock services.

WACC 
Weighted Average Cost of Capital, 
expressed as a percentage

WICET 
Wiggins Island Coal Expansion 
Terminal

WIRP 
Wiggins Island Rail Project

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
QR NATIONAL

97

Corporate  
Information

QR National Limited 

ABN 14 146 335 622

DIRECTORS 
John B Prescott AC 
Lance E Hockridge
John Atkin
Russell R Caplan
John Cooper
Karen Field
Graeme John AO
Andrea Staines

Gene Tilbrook

COMPANY SECRETARY 
Dominic D Smith

REGISTERED OFFICE 

Level 17 
175 Eagle Street  
BRISBANE, QLD 4000

AUDITORS 

PricewaterhouseCoopers 

SHARE REGISTRY 

Computershare Investor  
Services Pty Limited
117 Victoria Street,
West End, Qld 4001, Australia
Tel: 1800 776 476  

(or +61 3 9938 4376)

 
AnnuAl RepoRt 
2011–12