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Aurizon

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FY2020 Annual Report · Aurizon
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ANNUAL REPORT 

Contents

FY2020 in Review .................................................. 1

Chairman’s Report ................................................ 2

Managing Director & CEO’s Report .............. 3

Directors’ Report ...................................................4

– Operating and Financial Review .................11

– Remuneration Report ....................................25

Auditors’ Independence Declaration ........ 39

Corporate Governance Statement .............40

Financial Report ..................................................46

Shareholder Information  ................................110

Glossary .................................................................. 112

Corporate Information  ....................................114 

Purpose 
Growing regional Australia by delivering bulk 
commodities to the world.

Vision
The first choice for bulk commodity transport 

solutions. 

Values
 Safety: We have a relentless focus 
towards ZEROHarm.

People: We seek diverse perspectives.

Integrity: We have the courage to do  
the right thing.

Customer: We strive to be the first choice  
for customers.

Excellence: We set and achieve ambitious goals.

FY2020 in Review

Result Highlights (Underlying and statutory continuing operations)
($M)

Total revenue

EBITDA

EBIT

EBIT Statutory

NPAT

NPAT Statutory

Free cash flow (FCF)

Final dividend (cps)

Total dividend (cps)

Earnings per share (cps)

Return on invested capital (ROIC)

EBITDA margin (%)

Operating ratio (OR) (%)

Above Rail Tonnes (m)

Above Rail opex/NTK (excluding access) ($/’000 NTK)

Gearing (net debt/net debt + equity) (%)

FY2020

3,064.6

1,467.6

909.0

1,014.4

531.4

605.1

714.7

13.7

27.4

27.2

10.9%

47.9%

70.3%

262.0

20.9

45.1%

FY2019

2,907.6

1,371.6

829.0

829.0

473.3

473.3

734.4

12.4

23.8

23.8

9.7%

47.2%

71.5%

258.9

20.3

41.7%

VARIANCE

5%

7%

10%

22%

12%

28%

(3%)

10%

15%

14%

1.2ppt

0.7ppt

1.2ppt

1%

(3%)

(3.4ppt)

Performance Overview
 › EBIT up 10% to $909.0m with:

Major items
 › Bulk – strong financial performance delivered 

Outlook
 › Underlying EBIT guidance for FY2021 for 

through new contracts and ongoing 
operational efficiency improvements. 
Acquisition of Townsville Bulk Storage and 
Handling (renamed Aurizon Port Services) 
in March 2020 expands capability and 
offering to customers

 › Network – UT5 Undertaking approved during 

the year providing greater certainty and 
improved returns 

 › Coal – secured contract extensions with major 
customers during the year and now operates 
in all coal systems across the east coast 
of Australia

 › Completed the refinancing of Network’s 

bank debt facilities in June 2020, increasing 
capacity to $1.3bn with maturities from June 
2023 – June 2025, of which $525.0m is to 
cover the upcoming bond maturity

Group $830m to $880m. Key assumptions:
•  Coal – flat volumes 210-220mt based 
on current view of COVID-19 impact  
on coal
•  Network – 

 – Tariffs based on QCA approved 

volume forecast of 239mt – 5% higher 
than FY2020 actual volumes

 – CQCN volumes expected to be lower 
than 239mt due to COVID-19's impact 
on coal demand, resulting in a revenue 
under-recovery

 – Flat volumes implies a revenue under-
recovery of approximately $50m1 
– any shortfall will form part of the 
revenue cap in FY2023 partly offset 
by other adjustments including WACC

•  Operational efficiency improvements 
remain a key driver in the business
•  Redundancy costs included in guidance 

(reported in 'Other' segment)

•  No material disruptions to commodity 

supply chains (such as adverse weather 
and/or COVID-19)

•  Bulk up $52.6m (141%) with higher 
revenue through new contracts and 
benefits from ongoing efficiency 
improvements

•  Network up $68.5m (17%) with higher 

revenue from the implemented 
UT5 Undertaking and non-recurrence of 
the FY2018 true-up that impacted FY2019 

•  Coal down $4.5m (1%) with higher 
depreciation and operating costs 
associated with installing additional 
capacity to deliver contracted 
volume growth

•  Other down $36.6m impacted by the sale 
of the Rail Grinding business in October 
2019 and the recovery of a $20.3m 
doubtful debt in FY2019

 › FCF declined 3% to $714.7m due to the 

impact of the Cliffs termination payment 
in FY2019 and FY2018 true-up adjustment 
paid in FY2020 more than offsetting an 
improvement in cash flows from investing 
activities (sale of Rail Grinding business) 
and higher Group earnings 

 › Final dividend 13.7cps, 70% franked, 
representing a payout ratio of 100% 
of underlying NPAT for the continuing 
operations, an increase of 10%

 › Commitment to returning surplus funds to 
shareholders with completion of $400.0m 
on market buy-back and further $300.0m 
targeted for FY2021

1  Based on 227mt applied to $941 MAR (excluding GAPE).

FY2020 IN REVIEW

1

Chairman’s Report

A message from the Chairman 

Dear fellow shareholders

I am pleased to report that Aurizon has 
performed well during a challenging year 
to 30 June 2020. It was a year of two very 
different operating periods for your Company, 
with the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) 
dominating the second half of FY2020. As an 
essential service provider to the Australian 
economy, Aurizon has continued to operate 
throughout COVID-19, delivering safely and 
reliably for our customers. The health and 
well-being of our employees has remained our 
highest priority. A range of proactive measures, 
aligned with expert health and government 
advice, has been maintained in Aurizon 
workplaces. Further detail on these measures 
is provided in Andrew Harding’s MD & CEO 
report on the following page. Andrew chairs 
the COVID-19 Crisis Management Team for the 
Company, with the support of our leadership 
team and Chief Medical Officer.

Aurizon is strongly committed to safety – 
for our employees, the customers we serve 
and the communities in which we operate. 
We were saddened by the death in December 
2019 of one of our employees, Hans Ah Chee, 
in a work motor vehicle accident. Hans was 
a highly respected train driver working in our 
Coal business in Central Queensland and is 
missed by his colleagues. Andrew addresses 
in his report the broader program of safety 
work underway in Aurizon. 

In terms of earnings, Aurizon delivered 
Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) in 
FY2020 of $909 million. This was a solid result 
given the uncertain business environment that 
unfolded during the second half of FY2020. 
While there were no significant impacts to 
demand during this period, changes were 
required in how we delivered rail haulage 
and infrastructure services for customers. 
Additional health and hygiene protocols were 
also implemented to protect our employees. 
Collectively, these added complexity and cost 
to our business. It is a mark of the resilience of 
our Company and the efforts of our employees 
that Aurizon was able to deliver on EBIT 
guidance in FY2020.

Aurizon has decided to pay out 100% of 
Underlying Net Profit After Tax as dividends, 
consistent with our practice for the past five 
years. The Board has declared a final dividend 
of 13.7 cents per share, 70% franked. This will 
take total dividends in respect of FY2020 
to 27.4 cents per share, 70% franked. During 
the year, we also completed a $400 million 
on-market share buy-back which is value-
accretive for shareholders.

Strong progress was made on several key 
priorities during FY2020:

 › Approval from the Queensland Competition 

Authority for the 10-year Access Undertaking 
(UT5) for the Central Queensland Coal 
Network. This agreement is a major 
achievement for Aurizon and the coal 
industry, providing long-term investment 
certainty for one of Australia’s most 
important export infrastructure assets 
and a platform for continued performance 
improvement across the supply chain

 › Implementation of a new legal and capital 
structure for the Aurizon Group which 
has organised the above and below-rail 
businesses under the holding company. 
We established independent gearing 
levels for each business, consistent with 
their different risk profiles, which has 
made available additional funding capacity 
of approximately $1.2 billion. By progressively 
adding debt over time, we can optimise the 
balance sheet and unlock additional value  
for shareholders

 › Successful completion of the refinancing 

of Aurizon Network’s bank facilities, 
extending the maturity to 2023-2025 and 
increasing the facility size to $1.3 billion,  
an increase of $420 million. With the 
completion of this refinancing, the Aurizon 
Group now has more than $1.1 billion of 
available liquidity (30 June 2020). After the 
October 2020 maturity of the $525 million 
Medium Term Note (which will be repaid 
from the proceeds of this refinancing), the 
Aurizon Group has no further refinancing 
requirements until 2023

 › The turnaround of the operational 

and financial performance of the Bulk 
business has continued strongly, with 
new customer contracts and ongoing 
efficiency improvements. The Company 
initiated a turnaround plan in 2017 following 
a strategic review of the loss-making 
freight business. In the space of three years, 
Bulk has improved its EBIT by more than 
$100 million, from negative $14 million 
in FY2017 to $90 million in FY2020. 

2

In February, we acknowledged the sad passing 
of our highly-respected former colleague, 
John Cooper. John served on Aurizon’s Board 
from April 2012 until May 2019 when he retired 
due to health reasons. John was a force for 
positive change during his time as a Director 
and played a key role in the Board’s focus on 
safety, people and culture as part of broader 
transformation efforts.

In December 2019, Dr Sarah Ryan and 
Mr Lyell Strambi joined the Aurizon Board 
as Non-Executive Directors. Sarah and Lyell 
have brought further operational, major project, 
technology and transport skills and experience 
to your Board. Sarah has approximately 
30 years of international experience in the 
oil and gas industry. Lyell is the Chief Executive 
Officer of Melbourne Airport and has extensive 
experience over more than 40 years in the 
aviation and transport infrastructure sectors, 
both in Australia and overseas. We are delighted 
that Sarah and Lyell have joined our Board.

As we enter FY2021, we are cognisant of the 
continuing economic uncertainty in the markets 
we serve and the inevitable headwinds that will 
flow through to our business. We have built 
strong foundations for the Company in recent 
years by simplifying the business model and 
focussing on core services for our customers. 
Aurizon is well-positioned from a funding 
perspective, with a strong balance sheet. 

On behalf of the Board, I thank all employees 
across the business for their outstanding 
contribution to our results this year and 
particularly for their efforts in the challenging 
environment of COVID-19. I also acknowledge 
the continued support of you, our shareholders.

Tim Poole

Chairman 
10 August 2020

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
Managing Director & CEO’s Report

A message from the  
Managing Director & CEO

Dear fellow shareholders

I begin my report to you on our business results 
in FY2020 by addressing safety performance in 
the Company. 

Sadly, as the Chairman has also noted in 
his report, one of our employees was killed 
in a road accident in December 2019. Hans 
Ah Chee was a highly respected train driver 
working in our Coal business and based at 
Sarina in Central Queensland. Workplace 
Health & Safety Queensland has advised 
it has considered all issues relating to the 
accident and is not investigating the matter 
any further. Our thoughts remain with Han’s 
family, friends and colleagues.

Notwithstanding this tragic fatality, our total 
recordable injury frequency rate improved by 
10% during FY2020. The other metric we use to 
measure safety performance is Rail Process 
Safety (RPS) which measures significant 
operational safety incidents including 
derailments, signals passed at danger and 
collisions. In FY2020, there was a deterioration 
in RPS by 8%. While it is important to note 
that over the past decade there has been 
long-term improvement in Aurizon’s safety 
performance, we remain absolutely focused 
on driving further significant improvements. 
Safety remains Aurizon’s highest priority and 
we are determined to focus our resources 
and investment on ‘managing what matters’ 
and, in particular, identifying and learning 
from events that have the potential for 
serious injury and fatality.

Last year I reported on the extensive work we 
have commenced to enhance safety including 
systems, leadership and culture. In FY2021, 
we are moving to the next phase of this work, 
updating our strategy and building on the 
improvements and successful initiatives that have 
been delivered over the past year. 

I also want to build on the Chairman’s 
comments regarding Aurizon’s response to 
the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). Aurizon 
continues to monitor developments relating to 
COVID-19, with our workplace responses and 
decision-making guided by advice from the 
Australian Government’s Department of Health 
and respective State Governments. 

Our first priority remains the health and 
well-being of our employees. Protocols are 
in place across workplaces to provide a safe 
work environment while providing business 
continuity to our customers:

 › protocols and practices for all operational 
and office environments, including hygiene 
stations, workplace separation and social 
distancing. Ongoing work from home 
arrangements have been facilitated for 
employees not in operational roles

 › increased staff awareness and education 

on personal hygiene and cleaning regimes 
for depots, offices, locomotives and vehicles

 › ceasing all non-essential travel and 

training courses

 › a special COVID-19 leave entitlement of 

10 days’ paid leave to support employees 
who may be impacted

 › extending a range of resources to support 
the physical and mental well-being of 
our employees.

I am immensely proud of our employees’ 
dedication and discipline throughout COVID-19 
in looking after the health and wellbeing 
of themselves and their colleagues, while 
delivering safely and reliably for our customers.

Now turning to the operational performance 
of the Company and the business by 
business breakdown. 

The Bulk business has delivered a strong 
result in FY2020, winning a number of new 
haulage contracts and delivering ongoing 
transformation benefits. It achieved EBIT 
of $90 million, a major turnaround from 
the loss-making position it was in three 
years ago. Contract wins include South32 
Cannington (11-year extension to 2032 
on the Mt Isa corridor), Incitec Pivot (new 
contract commencing January 2020 on 
the Mt Isa corridor), and BGC (new contract 
commencing June 2020 on the Kalgoorlie 
Freighter). During the year, Aurizon Bulk 
completed the acquisition of Townsville Bulk 
Storage and Handling which operates bulk 
transport, handling and stevedoring services 
in North Queensland. The acquisition – now 
known as Aurizon Port Services – allows us 
to extend supply chain services beyond our 
core rail capability on the Mt Isa line corridor, 
connecting the Port of Townsville to the 
commodity-rich North West Minerals province.

In FY2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had some 
impact on coal demand in Asia and on the 
Indian sub-continent which has contributed 
to volumes slightly lower than anticipated 
in our Coal and Network businesses.

The Coal business delivered 214 million tonnes 
(mt) of coal for customers during FY2020, 
which is broadly in line with FY2019. It achieved 
EBIT of $410.6 million in FY2020, a decrease 
of 1% against FY2019. Contract wins during 
FY2020 include: Peabody (extension of all 
existing volumes and new business on the 
Central Queensland Coal Network (CQCN) 
and NSW); Coronado (contract variation with 
additional volumes and term extension for 
Curragh mine, CQCN), Bluescope (commenced 
railings in April 2020 installing Aurizon into 
the Illawarra region. NSW). With the Bluescope 
contract, Aurizon Coal now operates in all coal 
systems across Australia.

The Network business achieved EBIT of $469 
million in FY2020, an increase of 17% compared 
to FY2019. This reflects the new rates of return 
contained in the UT5 Access Undertaking for 
the Central Queensland Coal Network (CQCN). 
Tonnages carried across the CQCN in FY2020 
were 229 mt, compared to 234 mt in FY2019, 
a decrease of 2%.

During FY2020, we had some changes 
to our senior leadership team. I would like 
to acknowledge the contribution of former 
Group Executive Network, Michael Riches, 
who left Aurizon in December 2019. Michael 
was instrumental in reaching agreement with 
coal customers on the UT5 Access Agreement. 
Recognising the strong capability of the 
leadership team, we appointed the Chief 
Financial Officer and Group Executive 
Strategy, Pam Bains to the Network role. 
George Lippiatt, the former Head of 
Strategy and Corporate Development for 
the Company, was subsequently appointed 
to the role of Chief Financial Officer and 
Group Executive Strategy.

I extend special thanks to our employees 
across the Company for their efforts in a 
very challenging year. Our people are central 
to Aurizon’s success and the connection 
we have with the communities in which 
we operate. While COVID-19 has tested 
our operational capabilities, we have found 
new and more flexible ways of working. 
We have also benefitted from having a 
decentralised workforce with more than 
80% of employees working and living 
in regional areas of Australia. 

Andrew Harding

Managing Director & CEO 
10 August 2020

MANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO’S REPORT 

3

 
Directors’ Report

Aurizon Holdings Limited 
For the year ended 30 June 2020
The Directors of Aurizon Holdings Limited 
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 2020 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.

T Poole
Experience: Mr Poole began his career in 
1990 at PricewaterhouseCoopers before a 
long and successful period (1995 to 2007) 
helping to build Hastings Fund Management, 
where he became Managing Director in 2005. 
Hastings was a global investor in unlisted 
assets, predominantly equity and debt 
issued by infrastructure companies.

Qualifications: BCom.

Special Responsibilities: Chairman of 
Nomination & Succession Committee. Member 
of Audit, Governance & Risk Management 
Committee. Member of Safety, Health & 
Environment Committee.

Australian Listed Company Directorships held 
in the past three years: Chairman of Lifestyle 
Communities Limited (19 November 2007 to 
14 August 2019) and McMillan Shakespeare 
Limited (17 December 2013 – ongoing). 
Non-Executive Director of Reece Limited 
(28 July 2016 – ongoing).

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

T Poole 
(Appointed 1 July 2015) 
(Chairman, Independent Non-Executive Director)

A Harding 
(Appointed 1 December 2016) 
(Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer)

M Bastos 
(Appointed 15 November 2017)  
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

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

M Fraser 
(Appointed 15 February 2016)  
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

S Lewis 
(Appointed 17 February 2015)  
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

S Ryan 
(Appointed 1 December 2019)  
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

L Strambi 
(Appointed 1 December 2019)  
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

K Vidgen 
(Appointed 25 July 2016)  
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

Details of the experience, qualifications, 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.

4

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20A Harding
Experience: Mr Harding has extensive 
operational experience in the resources industry 
and in managing supply chains for the world’s 
largest integrated portfolio of iron ore assets.

Mr Harding’s 24-year executive career has 
been spent with Rio Tinto and in its subsidiary 
companies, with his most recent role before 
joining Aurizon being the global Chief 
Executive Iron Ore.

Mr Harding was also the Global Practice Leader, 
Asset Management, Technology and Innovation 
group of Rio Tinto from 2005 to 2009.

Mr Harding has championed a number of 
workplace initiatives including improvements 
in safety, a commitment to diversity, and 
the strengthening of Indigenous and 
community relationships.

Mr Harding is a member of the 2012 class of 
Henry Crown Fellows at the Aspen Institute.

Qualifications: B.Eng. (Mining Engineering), MBA.

Special Responsibilities: Managing Director 
& CEO of Aurizon, Director of Aurizon 
subsidiary companies including Aurizon 
Network Pty Ltd. Member of Safety, Health 
& Environment Committee.

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

M Bastos
Experience: Mr Bastos has more than 30 years 
of experience globally in the mining industry. 
He has extensive experience in major project 
development, operations, logistics and senior 
leadership in most of the major sectors of 
the mining industry including iron ore, gold, 
copper, nickel, zinc and coal.

Previously Mr Bastos was the Chief Operating 
Officer of MMG Limited with responsibility for 
the business in four continents and a member 
of many of the company Boards. Before MMG 
he spent seven years with BHP Billiton where 
he served as President Nickel Americas, 
President Nickel West (based in Perth), and 
Chief Executive Officer and President of BHP 
Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (based in Brisbane).

Mr Bastos also had a 19-year career with Vale in 
a range of senior management and operational 
positions in Brazil, including General Manager 
of Carajas in the northern region and also 
Director of Non Ferrous – Copper business.

Mr Bastos is currently a Non-Executive Director 
of IIuka Resources Limited, Non-Executive 
Director of Anglo American PLC, and an 
External Director (Non-Executive Independent) 
of Golder Associates.

Qualifications: B.Eng. Mechanical (Hons), 
MBA (FDC-MG), MAICD.

Special Responsibilities: Chairman of Safety, 
Health & Environment Committee. Non-
Executive Director of Aurizon Network Pty Ltd.

Australian Listed Company Directorships held 
in the past three years: lluka Resources Limited 
– Non-Executive Director (February 2014 – 
current); Oz Minerals Limited – Non-Executive 
Director (September 2018 to April 2019).

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 and Chairman and 
Non-Executive Director of Horizon Roads Pty 
Ltd. He is a former Non-Executive Director 
of Woodside Petroleum Limited and former 
Chairman of Orica Limited and the Australian 
Institute of Petroleum.

Qualifications: LLB, FAICD, FAIM.

Special Responsibilities: Member of 
Remuneration & Human Resources Committee. 
Member of Audit, Governance & Risk 
Management Committee.

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

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

5

Directors’ Report (continued)

M Fraser
Experience: Mr Fraser has more than 35 years 
of experience in the Australian energy industry. 
He has held various executive positions 
at AGL Energy culminating in his role as 
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer 
for a period of seven years until February 
2015. Mr Fraser is currently Chairman and 
Non-Executive Director of the ASX listed 
APA Group.

Mr Fraser is former Chairman of the Clean 
Energy Council, Elgas Limited, ActewAGL 
and the NEMMCo Participants Advisory 
Committee, as well as a former Director 
of Queensland Gas Company Limited, the 
Australian Gas Association, and the Energy 
Retailers Association of Australia.

Qualifications: BComm, FCPA, MAICD.

Special Responsibilities: Chairman of Aurizon 
Network Pty Ltd. Member of Remuneration & 
Human Resources Committee.

Australian Listed Company Directorships 
held in the past three years: APA Group – 
Chairman and Non-Executive Director 
(1 September 2015 – ongoing).

S Lewis
Experience: Ms Lewis has extensive financial 
experience, including as a lead auditor of a 
number of major Australian listed entities.

Ms Lewis has significant experience working 
with clients in the manufacturing, consumer 
business and energy sectors, and in addition 
to external audits, has provided accounting 
and transactional advisory services to other 
major organisations in Australia. Ms Lewis’ 
expertise includes accounting, finance, 
auditing, risk management, corporate 
governance, capital markets and due diligence. 
Ms Lewis is currently a Non-Executive Director 
and Chairman of the Audit & Compliance 
Committee of Orora Limited, Chairman of 
APRA’s Audit and Risk Committee, and a 
Non-Executive Director and Chairman of the 
Audit & Risk Committee of Nine Entertainment 
Co. Holdings Limited. Previously, Ms Lewis was 
an Assurance & Advisory partner from 2000 
to 2014 with Deloitte Australia.

Qualifications: BA (Hons) EC, CA, ACA, GAICD.

Special Responsibilities: Chair of Audit, 
Governance & Risk Management Committee. 
Member of Remuneration & Human Resources 
Committee. Member of Nomination & 
Succession Committee.

Australian Listed Company Directorships 
held in the past three years: Orora Limited – 
Non-Executive Director (1 March 2014 – 
ongoing), Nine Entertainment Co. Holdings 
Limited (20 March 2017 – ongoing).

S Ryan
Experience: Dr Sarah Ryan has approximately 
30 years of international experience in the oil 
and gas industry. Initially Sarah spent 20 years 
in various technical, operational and senior 
management positions, including 15 years with 
Schlumberger Limited both in Australia and 
overseas. Dr Ryan then spent 10 years as an 
equity analyst covering natural resources with 
institutional investment firm Earnest Partners, 
based in the US. Dr Ryan is currently a Non-
Executive Director of ASX listed Woodside 
Petroleum Limited and Viva Energy Group 
Limited and a Non-Executive Director of 
Future Battery Industry Cooperative Research 
Centre. Dr Ryan is also a Non-Executive 
Director of Norwegian listed Akastor ASA. 
Dr Ryan is a Fellow of the Australian Academy 
of Technology and Engineering.

Qualifications: PhD (Petroleum and 
Geophysics), BSc (Geophysics) (Hons 1), 
BSc (Geology), FTSE.

Special Responsibilities: Member of 
Audit, Governance & Risk Management 
Committee. Member of Safety, Health 
& Environment Committee.

Australian Listed Company Directorships 
held in the past three years: Woodside 
Petroleum Limited – Non-Executive Director 
(24 October 2012 – current), Viva Energy 
Group – Non-Executive Director (18 June 2018 
– current) and Central Petroleum Limited – 
Non-Executive Director (23 October 2017 to 
13 November 2018).

6

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20L Strambi
Experience: Mr Strambi was appointed CEO 
and Managing Director of Australia Pacific 
Airports Corporation (APAC) in September 
2015. He is responsible for the operation 
and development of both the Melbourne 
and Launceston airports.

Mr Strambi has a wealth of experience in 
the aviation sector both in Australia and 
abroad, spanning 40 years. As APAC’s leader, 
Mr Strambi is responsible for overseeing 
a direct workforce of 300 staff and assets 
valued in excess of $10 billion.

Prior to commencing at APAC, Mr Strambi 
was the Chief Executive Officer of Qantas 
Airways Domestic, a role he held for three 
years following four years as the airline’s 
Group Executive Operations. Between 2001 
and 2008 Mr Strambi was based in London, 
working in senior roles at Virgin Atlantic 
that included Executive Director – Airline 
Services and followed by six years as Chief 
Operating Officer.

Mr Strambi is a Graduate and Fellow of the 
Australian Institute of Company Directors 
and a Member of the Australian Institute of 
Management. He holds a Bachelor of Business 
in Accounting and Finance.

As a Director, Mr Strambi has held positions 
with Star Track Express, Traveland and 
Southern Cross Distribution Systems and 
was President of the Royal Flying Doctors 
SE. Currently Mr Strambi is an APAC 
Board Member.

Qualifications: BBus (Accy), FAICD.

Special Responsibilities: Non-Executive 
Director of Aurizon Network Pty Ltd. Member 
of Safety, Health & Environment Committee.

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

K Vidgen
Experience: Ms Vidgen began her career 
as a banking, finance and energy lawyer 
at Malleson Stephen Jacques and in 1998 
started in the Infrastructure advisory 
team within the Macquarie Group. During 
her time at Macquarie, Ms Vidgen has 
traversed a number of sectors with a focus 
on infrastructure, energy and resources. 
Ms Vidgen has also held a number of roles 
including heading up Macquarie Capital’s 
coal advisory team in Australia and being 
Global Co-Head of Resources Infrastructure. 
Ms Vidgen remains an Executive Director 
at Macquarie Capital and is currently the 
Global Head of Principal in Oil and Gas.

Qualifications: LLB (Hons), BA, GAICD.

Special Responsibilities: Chair of 
Remuneration & Human Resources Committee. 
Member of Nomination & Succession 
Committee. Non-Executive Director of 
Aurizon Network Pty Ltd.

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

Company Secretary
Mr Dominic Smith was appointed Company 
Secretary of the QR Limited Group in May 
2010 and to Aurizon Holdings Limited upon 
its incorporation on 14 September 2010.

Mr Smith has over 20 years’ ASX listed 
company secretariat, governance, corporate 
legal and senior management experience 
across a range of industries.

Mr Smith holds a Masters of Laws degree from 
the University of Sydney and is a Fellow of 
both the Governance Institute of Australia and 
the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Qualifications: BA, LLB, LLM, DipLegS, FGIA, 
FCSA, FCIS, FAICD.

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

Network

Provision of access to, and operation of, the 
Central Queensland Coal Network (CQCN). 
Provision of maintenance and renewal of 
Network assets.

Coal

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

Bulk

Transport of bulk mineral commodities, 
agricultural products, mining and industrial 
inputs, and general freight throughout 
Queensland and Western Australia.

Review of operations
A review of the Group’s operations for 
the financial year and the results of those 
operations, are contained in the Operating 
and Financial Review as set out on pages 11 
to 24 of this report.

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

7

Directors’ Report (continued)

In September 2019, the Federal Department 
of Environment and Energy advised off-road 
diesel transport, including rail freight, was 
exempt from the introduction of national 
standards for the regulation of off-road 
engines. This decision gave due recognition 
to actions the rail freight industry, led by 
Aurizon, has taken to manage emissions by 
introducing the CoP.

The National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting 
Act 2007 (NGER) (Cth) 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.

At the close of the third Emissions Reduction 
Fund Safeguard Mechanism (Safeguard) 
compliance period (ended on 30 June 2019), 
three of Aurizon’s NGER facilities were 
captured. Through effective management 
of the Company’s emissions, it achieved full 
compliance with the Safeguard and as such, 
was not required to purchase or generate 
Australian Carbon Credit Units for the 
reporting period. Following amendments 
to the Safeguard Rule in 2019, Aurizon is 
well positioned for a timely transition of its 
reported and calculated baselines over the 
coming reporting periods. 

Further details of the Company’s climate and 
environmental performance will be published 
in Aurizon’s forthcoming Sustainability Report 
which will be published in October 2020.

Environmental prosecutions
There have been no environmental 
prosecutions during this financial year.

Dividends
A final dividend of 12.4 cents per fully paid 
ordinary share (70% franked) was paid on 
23 September 2019 and an interim dividend 
of 13.7 cents per fully paid ordinary share 
(70% franked) was paid on 23 March 2020.

Further details of dividends provided for, or 
paid, are set out in note 16 to the consolidated 
financial statements.

Since the end of the financial year, the 
Directors have declared to pay a final dividend 
of 13.7 cents per fully paid ordinary share.

The dividend will be 70% franked and is 
payable on 21 September 2020.

State of affairs
In the opinion of the Directors, there were 
no 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
The Directors are not aware of any events 
or  developments which are not set out in 
this report or note 37 of the Financial 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 set out on page 2 
of this report and the Managing Director & 
CEO’s Report set out on page 3 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.

Environmental regulation  
and performance
Aurizon 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, Aurizon seeks 
to comply with all applicable environmental 
laws and regulations.

Aurizon acknowledges the strong scientific 
consensus of climate change and supports 
the objectives of the Paris Agreement, to 
find a pathway to limiting global warming 
to below 2°C. Aurizon also acknowledges the 
objectives of the Paris Agreement to pursue 
efforts to limit the temperature increase even 
further to 1.5°C. To this end, Aurizon continues 
to incorporate the recommendations of the 
Financial Stability Board’s (FSB) Final Report: 
Recommendations of the Task Force on 
Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), 
when considering climate-related risks. While 
Aurizon’s annual Sustainability Report will 
remain the primary channel for engaging on 
all ESG matters, in FY2021 Aurizon will publish 
its inaugural Climate Strategy and Action Plan 
which will consolidate the Company’s position 
on climate change and set-out Aurizon’s 
long-term climate strategy, actions and targets. 

For more information, see our Sustainability 
Report, available on our website, aurizon.com.au.

In 2016, Aurizon established a greenhouse gas 
(GHG) emissions intensity target which expires 
in 2020. Over the past year, Aurizon continued 
to monitor its progress towards its target and 
despite significant reductions made to date, 
Aurizon’s emissions intensity was higher than 
initial target forecasts due to operational 
and service mix changes in previous years, 
and Aurizon will not achieve its target of 
15% emissions intensity reduction on 2015 
levels in 2020. Aurizon remains committed 
to further reducing the greenhouse gas 
emissions intensity of its operations through 
targeted initiatives and programs and will be 
announcing revised short term and long-term 
operational decarbonisation targets in FY2021. 

In July 2019, the NSW government introduced 
legislation requiring Rolling Stock Operators 
(RSOs) to apply for a mandatory Environment 
Protection Licence (EPL) by January 2020. 
The EPLs, set to be finalised in August 2020, 
are significant in that they establish acceptable 
thresholds for locomotive diesel emissions 
and rail noise. Aurizon was first aware of the 
potential for this requirement in 2014 and, 
since this time, has led extensive consultation 
with the NSW Environment Protection 
Authority (EPA). The EPA recognised past 
efforts of RSOs, led by Aurizon, in developing 
the 2018 Rail Industry and Standards Board 
(RISSB) Code of Practice (CoP) on the 
Management of Locomotive Diesel Emissions 
and ultimately adopted the requirements set 
out in the CoP. Aurizon’s reputation enabled 
effective input to the EPA’s approach to 
EPL implementation.

8

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Risk management
Aurizon recognises that risk is characterised by both threat and opportunity, and manages risk to enhance opportunities and reduce threats to sustain 
shareholder value. Aurizon fosters a risk-aware culture through the application of high-quality, integrated risk assessments to support informed decision 
making. The Board is ultimately responsible for risk management, which considers a wide range of risks within strategic planning. Aurizon has a 
commitment to effective risk management as a key element of business success.

The Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee monitors management’s performance against Aurizon’s risk management framework, including 
whether it is operating within the risk appetite set by the Board (see page 44 of this Annual Report). The Company’s Risk and Assurance Function is 
responsible for providing oversight of the risk management framework and assurance on the management of significant risks to the Managing Director 
& CEO and the Board.

Aurizon’s risk-aware culture has an emphasis on frontline accountability for effective risk management. The consideration of risk features heavily in 
our thinking, from the framing of strategy through to informing decision making. Aurizon’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework and Appetite and 
supporting Risk Assessment Procedure are aligned to the international standard for risk management (AS/NZS ISO 31000:2018) and supports the 
identification, assessment and reporting of risk across the business, and includes both financial and non financial risks.

Processes exist for the prevention, detection and management of fraud within the Company, and for fair dealing in matters pertaining to fraud. 
Further details of risks and risk management are set out on pages 22 to 23 of the Directors’ Report.

TABLE 1 – DIRECTORS’ MEETINGS AS AT 30 JUNE 2020

DIRECTOR

AURIZON HOLDINGS 
BOARD

AUDIT, GOVERNANCE 
& RISK MANAGEMENT 
COMMITTEE

REMUNERATION & 
HUMAN RESOURCES 
COMMITTEE 

SAFETY, HEALTH 
& ENVIRONMENT 
COMMITTEE

NOMINATION 
& SUCCESSION 
COMMITTEE

T Poole1

A Harding1

M Bastos

R Caplan

M Fraser

S Lewis

S Ryan

L Strambi

K Vidgen

A

13

13

13

13

13

13

8

8

13

B

13

13

13

13

13

13

8

8

13

A

8

–

–

8

–

8

4

–

–

B

8

–

–

8

–

8

4

–

–

A

–

–

–

5

5

5

–

–

5

B

–

–

–

5

5

5

–

–

5

A

5

5

5

–

–

–

3

3

–

B

5

5

5

–

–

–

3

3

–

A

1

–

–

–

–

1

–

–

1

B

1

–

–

–

–

1

–

–

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 T Poole and A Harding met respectively on two occasions.

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 above.

During the year, the Aurizon Network Pty Ltd 
Board met on six occasions.

Directors’ interests
Directors’ interests are as at 30 June 2020.

TABLE 2 – DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS AS AT 30 JUNE 2019

DIRECTOR

T Poole

A Harding

M Bastos

R Caplan

M Fraser

S Lewis

S Ryan

L Strambi

K Vidgen

NUMBER OF ORDINARY 
SHARES

110,500

316,997 

25,947

82,132

70,000

43,025

13,000

5,355

40,000

Only Mr Harding, Managing Director & CEO receives performance rights, details of which are set out in the 
Remuneration Report.

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

9

 
Directors’ Report (continued)

Remuneration Report
The Remuneration Report is set out on pages 25 
to 38 and forms part of the Directors’ Report 
for the financial year ended 30 June 2020.

Rounding of amounts
The amounts contained in this report and in 
the financial statements have been rounded 
to the nearest hundred thousand dollars 
unless otherwise stated (where rounding 
is applicable) under the option available 
to the Company under ASIC Corporations 
(Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Reports) 
Instrument 2016/191. The Company is an 
entity to which the instrument applies.

Auditor’s Independence Declaration
A copy of the Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration, as required under section 307C 
of the Corporations Act 2001, is set out on 
page 39. The Directors’ Report is made in 
accordance with a resolution of the Directors 
of the Company.

Tim Poole

Chairman 
10 August 2020

Non‑audit services
During the year, the Company’s auditor 
PricewaterhouseCoopers (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 2001.

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

Total remuneration for  
other assurance services

OTHER SERVICES

Total remuneration  
for other services

2020 
$’000

34

70

CEO and CFO declaration
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 2001.

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 respects 
in relation to the reporting of financial risks.

Indemnification and insurance 
of officers
The Company’s Constitution provides that the 
Company may indemnify any person who is, 
or has been, an officer of the Group, including 
the Directors and Company Secretary, against 
liabilities incurred while acting as such officers 
to the maximum 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 
civil litigation proceedings, arbitration 
proceedings, administration appeals, or 
criminal or governmental prosecutions of a 
material nature which are not set out in this 
report or note 33 of the Financial Report in 
which Aurizon Holdings is directly or indirectly 
concerned which are likely to have a material 
adverse effect on the business or financial 
position of the Company.

10

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
Directors’ Report (continued)
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS (Underlying continuing operations unless stated)
The Group’s financial performance is explained using measures that are not defined under IFRS and are therefore termed non-IFRS measures. 
The non-IFRS financial information contained within this Directors’ Report and Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements has not been audited 
in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. The non-IFRS measures used to monitor Group performance are EBIT (Statutory and Underlying), 
EBITDA (Statutory and Underlying), EBITDA margin (Statutory and Underlying), NPAT Underlying, Return on Invested Capital (ROIC), Net debt and 
Net gearing ratios. Each of these measures are discussed in more detail on page 108. Unless otherwise noted, the Operating and Financial Review 
information excludes discontinued operations being Intermodal. 

1. Annual Comparison 

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

($M)

Total revenue
Operating costs

Employee benefits 
Energy and fuel
Track access
Consumables
Other 

EBITDA 

Statutory EBITDA
Depreciation and amortisation 

EBIT 

Statutory EBIT

Net finance costs 

Income tax expense

Statutory Income tax expense

NPAT 

Statutory NPAT

Profit after tax from discontinued operations Statutory

NPAT (group) Statutory
Earnings per share1

Statutory

Earnings per share1 (continuing and discontinued operations)

Statutory

Return on invested capital (ROIC)2
Operating Ratio
Net cashflow from operating activities 
Final dividend per share (cps)
Gearing (net debt/net debt + equity) (%) (group)
Net tangible assets per share ($) (group)
People (FTE) 
Labour costs3/Revenue
Above Rail Tonnes (m)4

EBIT BY SEGMENT 

Coal
Bulk

Network
Other

Group (Continuing operations)

FY2020

3,064.6

(791.6)
(231.3)
(107.2)
(440.7)
(26.2)

1,467.6
1,573.0
(558.6)

909.0
1,014.4
(148.5)

(229.1)
(260.8)

531.4
605.1
10.8

615.9
27.2
31.0

27.7

31.5
10.9%
70.3%
1,237.5
13.7
45.1%
2.2
4,883
26.4%
262.0

FY2020
410.6
89.9

468.8
(60.3)

909.0

FY2019

2,907.6

(778.6)
(233.9)
(101.0)
(397.8)
(24.7)

1,371.6
1,371.6
(542.6)

829.0
829.0
(147.1)

(208.6)
(208.6)

473.3
473.3
3.2

476.5
23.8
23.8

24.0

23.9
9.7%
71.5%
1,316.1
12.4
41.7%
2.3
4,728
26.0%
258.9

FY2019
415.1
37.3

400.3
(23.7)

829.0

VARIANCE

5%

(2%)
1%
(6%)
(11%)
(6%)

7%
15%
(3%)

10%
22%
(1%)

(10%)
(25%)

12%
28%
238%

29%
14%
30%

15%

32%
1.2ppt
1.2ppt
(6%)
10%
(3.4ppt)
(4%)
(3%)
(0.4ppt)
1%

VARIANCE
(1%)
141%

17%
(154%)

10%

1   Calculated on weighted average number of shares on issue – 1,953m FY2020 and 1,990m FY2019
2   ROIC is defined as underlying rolling twelve-month EBIT divided by the average invested capital. The average invested capital is calculated as the rolling twelve-month 

average of net assets (excluding cash, borrowings, tax, derivative financial assets and liabilities) 

3  FY2020 excludes $16.0m redundancy costs (FY2019 excludes $21.4m redundancy costs)
4  Includes both Coal and Bulk

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

11

 
 
Directors’ Report (continued)
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Group Performance Overview
EBIT improved $80.0m or 10% due to higher earnings in Network from the UT5 Undertaking and volume growth (principally new contracts) in Bulk. 
Earnings in Coal were marginally lower with higher costs incurred to support an increase in contracted volumes. The decline in Other EBIT is principally 
due to the completion of the sale of the Rail Grinding business in October 2019 and a $20.3m doubtful debt recovery in FY2019.

Group revenue improved $157.0m or 5% with higher revenue in all business units with new contract growth for Bulk, greater revenue yield in Coal and 
higher revenue from the UT5 Undertaking in Network, partly offset by the impact from the sale of the Rail Grinding business. 

Operating costs increased $61.0m or 4% principally due to additional costs in the Bulk business associated with the increased volumes and revenues.

The net impact on EBIT of adopting AASB 16 Leases was $1.4m.

ROIC has improved 1.2ppts to 10.9% reflecting the increased EBIT during FY2020.

Reconciliation to Statutory Earnings
Underlying earnings is a non-statutory measure and is the primary reporting measure used by management and the Group’s chief operating decision 
making bodies for managing and assessing the financial performance of the business. Underlying earnings is derived by adjusting statutory earnings 
for significant items as noted in the following table:

($M)

Underlying EBIT (Continuing operations)

Significant items (Continuing operations)

Sale of Rail Grinding

Statutory EBIT (Continuing operations)

Net finance costs

Statutory PBT (Continuing operations)

Income tax expense

Statutory NPAT (Continuing operations)

EBIT (Discontinued operations)

Significant items (Discontinuing operations)

Asset impairments

Intermodal closure benefit

Redundancy benefit

Net finance benefit (Discontinued operations)

Income tax (expense)/benefit (Discontinued operations)

Statutory NPAT

FY2020

909.0

105.4

105.4

1,014.4

(148.5)

865.9

(260.8)

605.1

12.7

2.5

–

2.5

–

–

(4.4)

615.9

FY2019

829.0

–

–

829.0

(147.1)

681.9

(208.6)

473.3

6.7

(11.4)

(25.1)

13.2

0.5

0.1

7.8

476.5

Significant items in the continuing operations during FY2020 were $105.4m and relate to the net gain on sale of the Rail Grinding business.

Significant items for the discontinued operations totalled $2.5m, including gain on the sale of surplus assets.

12

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
2. Other financial information

BALANCE SHEET SUMMARY 

($M)

Assets classified as held for sale

Other current assets

Total current assets

Property, plant and equipment (PP&E)

Other non-current assets

Total non‑current assets 

Total Assets

Liabilities classified as held for sale

Other current liabilities

Total borrowings

Other non-current liabilities

Total Liabilities

Net Assets

Gearing (net debt/net debt + equity) (%)

30 JUNE 2020

30 JUNE 2019

65.1

650.2

715.3

8,537.1

519.6

9,056.7

9,772.0

(0.7)

(814.1)

(3,607.2)

(992.3)

5,414.3

4,357.7

45.1%

108.4

631.2

739.6

8,536.3

425.2

8,961.5

9,701.1

(3.8)

(795.7)

(3,369.8)

(854.4)

5,023.7

4,677.4

41.7%

Balance Sheet Movements 
Total current assets decreased by $24.3m largely due to: 

 › Net reduction of $43.3m in assets classified as held for sale predominately due to the completion of the Rail Grinding business sale
 › Reduction in trade and other receivables of $21.7m due to the timing of receipt of customer receipts and lower Take-or-Pay accrual

These reductions in current assets were partly offset by: 

 › Increase in current inventory of $28.6m to support overhaul and maintenance programs and additional requirements due to COVID-19 
 › Increase in other assets of $8.6m predominately due to the adoption of AASB 16
 › Increase in cash and cash equivalents of $4.1m

Total non-current assets increased by $95.2m largely due to a $24.1m favourable valuation of derivative financial instruments, an increase in other 
assets of $61.9m as a result of the adoption of AASB 16 and an increase in contract asset balances.

Total current liabilities, excluding borrowings increased by $18.4m largely due to:

 › Increase in current tax liabilities of $42.5m
 › Unfavourable valuation of derivative financial instruments (and a portion reclassified from non-current) of $35.1m due to the reduction in 

interest rates

 › Increase in other liabilities of $26.2m due to an increase in contract liability balances and adoption of AASB 16

These increases in current liabilities were partly offset by a reduction of $83.6m in trade and other payables mainly due to the settlement of an $81.3m 
over-collection of access revenue in FY2019.

Total borrowings increased by $237.4m, including $82.0m proceeds from issuance of an Australian Dollar Medium Term Note, net proceeds from bank 
debt facilities of $134.0m and $18.7m unfavourable revaluation of Euro Medium Term Notes. The first Australian Dollar Medium Term Note matures in 
October 2020 and as a result has been reclassified to current borrowings. 

Other non-current liabilities increased by $137.9m largely due to a $71.0m increase in net deferred tax liabilities and $67.9m increase in other liabilities 
predominately due to the adoption of AASB 16. 

Gearing (net debt/debt plus equity) was 45.1% as at 30 June 2020. 

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

13

Directors’ Report (continued)
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

CASH FLOW SUMMARY

($M)

Statutory EBITDA (Continuing operations)

Working capital and other movements

Non-cash adjustments – asset impairments

Cash inflows from Continuing operations

Interest received

Income taxes paid

Principal elements of lease receipts

Net cash inflow from operating activities from Continuing operations

Net operating cashflows from Discontinued operations

Net operating cash flows

Cash flows from investing activities

Proceeds from sale of business

Payments for acquisitions of subsidiary, net of cash acquired

Proceeds from associate and sale of property, plant and equipment (PP&E) 

Payments for PP&E and intangibles

Net cash (outflow) from investing activities from Continuing operations

Net investing cashflows from Discontinued operations

Net investing cash flows

Net cash flow from financing activities

Net proceeds/(repayments) from borrowings

Payment for share buy-back and share based payments

Interest paid

Proceeds from settlement of derivatives

Dividends paid to Company shareholders

Finance lease payments

Net cash (outflow) from financing activities from Continuing operations

Net financing cashflows from Discontinued operations

Net financing cash flows

Net (decrease)/increase in cash from Continuing operations

Net increase/(decrease) in cash from Discontinued operations

Free Cash Flow (FCF)5 from Continuing operations

Free Cash Flow (FCF)5 from Discontinued operations

FY2020

1,573.0

(203.2)

5.7

1,375.5

2.8

(146.5)

5.7

1,237.5

9.9

1,247.4

165.3

(24.5)

15.8

(528.3)

(371.7)

0.4

(371.3)

211.2

(403.6)

(151.1)

–

(513.8)

(14.6)

(871.9)

–

(871.9)

(6.1)

10.3

714.7

10.3

FY2019

1,371.6

61.6

24.9

1,458.1

2.9

(145.3)

–

1,315.7

(25.4)

1,290.3

– 

–

13.7

(444.5)

(430.8)

11.1

(419.7)

(253.4)

(0.6)

(150.5)

11.5

(487.6)

–

(880.6)

–

(880.6)

4.3

(14.3)

734.4

(14.3)

5  FCF – Defined as net cash flow from operating activities less net cash outflow from investing activities less interest paid

Cash flow movements 
Net cash inflow from operating activities from continuing operations decreased by $78.2m (6%) to $1,237.5m. This was largely due to the receipt of 
the Cliffs termination payment in FY2019 and the FY2018 UT5 true-up adjustment that was paid to customers in FY2020. These working capital items 
offset the improved earnings of the Group. 

Net cash outflow from investing activities from continuing operations decreased by $59.1m (14%) to $371.7m, largely due to $164.5m proceeds from the 
sale of the Rail Grinding business which completed on 31 October 2019. This was partly offset by a $24.5m payment for the acquisition of Townsville 
Bulk Storage and Handling (renamed Aurizon Port Services) in March 2020 and a $83.8m increase in payments for capital expenditure. 

Net cash outflow from financing activities from continuing operations reduced by $8.7m (1%) to $871.9m with the higher dividend payments and the 
on-market share buy-back largely offset by an increase of net proceeds from borrowing of $464.6m. 

14

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
Discontinued Operations 
On 14 August 2017 Aurizon announced 
the intention to exit the Intermodal business 
through a combination of closure and sale. 

Aurizon signed a binding agreement with 
Pacific National on 29 July 2017 to sell its 
Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal for $205.0m, 
of which a $35.0m non-refundable amount 
was received in advance. This transaction is 
subject to approval by the ACCC and Foreign 
Investment Review Board. 

On 6 May 2020, the Full Federal Court 
unanimously dismissed an appeal by the ACCC 
that the sale of the Acacia Ridge Intermodal 
Terminal to Pacific National contravened section 
50 of the Commonwealth's Competition and 
Consumer Act (2010). On 26 June 2020, the 
ACCC sought special leave to the High Court 
to appeal the decision of the Full Federal Court.

It is anticipated that the special leave 
application decision will be received before  
the end of calendar year 2020. The Group 
remains committed to exiting the Acacia 
Ridge Intermodal Terminal and on this 
basis has continued to classify the Acacia 
Ridge Intermodal Terminal as held for sale and 
a discontinued operation as at 30 June 2020.

The Queensland Intermodal business was sold 
to Linfox on 31 January 2019.

Funding 
The Group's improved legal and capital 
structure was implemented in FY2020 which 
results in a more efficient balance sheet and 
funding structure. Aurizon Operations’ and 
Aurizon Network’s credit ratings have each 
been maintained at BBB+/Baa1. The Aurizon 
Holdings’ credit rating was withdrawn during 
the period.

The Group continues to be committed 
to diversifying its debt investor base 
and increasing average debt tenor.

During FY2020 Aurizon Network: 

 › Issued a 10.5 year, $82.0m A$ Private 

Placement 

 › Cancelled existing Network bank debt 

syndicated facilities maturing in July 2021 
and October 2022 and replaced them with 
bilateral bank debt facilities totalling $1.3bn 
with maturity extended to June 2023, 2024 
and 2025

In respect of FY2020: 

 › Weighted average debt maturity tenor 

was 3.8 years. This was lower than FY2019 
(4.3 years) due to the debt portfolio’s 
duration reducing by 12 months, partly offset 
by the extinguishment and replacement of 
Network bank debt facilities noted above.
 › Group interest cost on drawn debt was 4.5% 

(FY2019 4.5%) 

 › Available liquidity (undrawn facilities plus 

cash) as at 30 June 2020 was $1,165m, with 
$525m to be used for the upcoming bond 
maturing 

 › Group gearing (net debt/(net debt + equity)) 
as at 30 June 2020 was 45.1% (FY2019 41.7%) 

 › Network gearing (net debt/Regulated 

Asset Base (excluding Access Facilitation 
Deeds)) as at 30 June 2020 was 56.0% 
(FY2019 58.7%) 

 › Operations gearing (net debt/(net debt 
+ equity)) as at 30 June 2020 was 10.2% 
(FY2019 0.7%)

Dividend
The Board has declared a final dividend for 
FY2020 of 13.7cps (70% franked) based on a 
payout ratio of 100% in respect of underlying 
NPAT for continuing operations. 

The relevant final dividend dates are: 

 › 24 August 2020 – ex-dividend date
 › 25 August 2020 – record date
 › 21 September 2020 – payment date 

Share buy-back
On 12 August 2019, Aurizon announced 
its intention to undertake an on-market 
share buy-back of up to $300.0m during 
FY2020. This was subsequently increased 
on 10 February 2020 to $400.0m, confirming 
Aurizon’s commitment to returning surplus 
capital to shareholders.

During the year, 75,485,000 shares at a total 
consideration of $400.0m were bought back 
and subsequently cancelled.

Tax 
For FY2020 continuing operations, the 
underlying income tax expense was $229.1m 
and the statutory income tax expense was 
$260.8m. Statutory income tax expense for 
the Group (both continuing and discontinued) 
for FY2020 was $265.2m. The Group 
underlying and statutory effective tax rate6 for 
FY2020 was 30.1% which is greater than 30% 
due to the derecognition of the deferred tax 
asset in respect of net capital losses. The Group 
underlying cash tax rate7 for FY2020 was 
21.3%, which is less than 30% primarily due to 
accelerated fixed asset related adjustments. 

The underlying effective tax rate for FY2021 
is expected to be in the range of 29-31% and 
the underlying cash tax rate is expected to be 
less than 25% for the short to medium term.

Aurizon publishes additional tax information 
in accordance with the voluntary Tax 
Transparency Code in its sustainability 
report. Please refer to www.aurizon.com.
au/sustainability for a copy of Aurizon’s 
sustainability report (including tax 
transparency disclosures).

6  Underlying effective tax rate = income tax expense excluding the impact of significant items/underlying consolidated profit before tax
7  Underlying cash tax rate = cash tax payable excluding the impact of significant items/underlying consolidated profit before tax

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

15

Directors’ Report (continued)
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

BUSINESS UNIT REVIEW

COAL 

Aurizon’s Coal business provides a critical supply chain link for the majority of Australia’s coal producers. The coal transport operation connects mines 
in the Newlands, Goonyella, Blackwater, Moura and West Moreton systems in Queensland and the Hunter Valley and Illawarra coal systems, in New 
South Wales with domestic customers and coal export terminals.

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

($M)

Revenue

Above Rail

Track Access

Other

Total revenue

Operating costs 

EBITDA

Depreciation and amortisation 

EBIT

METRICS 

Total tonnes hauled (m)

CQCN

NSW & SEQ

Contract utilisation

Total NTK (bn)

CQCN

NSW & SEQ

Average haul length (km)

Total revenue/NTK ($/’000 NTK)

Above Rail Revenue/NTK ($/’000 NTK)

Operating Ratio (%)

Opex/NTK ($/’000 NTK)

Opex/NTK (excluding access costs) ($/’000 NTK)

Locomotive productivity (‘000 NTK/Active locomotive day)8

Active locomotives (as at 30 June)8

Wagon productivity (‘000 NTK/Active wagon day)8

Active wagons (as at 30 June)8 

Payload (tonnes)8

Velocity (km/hr)8 

Fuel Consumption (l/d GTK)8

FY2020

FY2019

VARIANCE

1,260.3

512.8

2.2

1,775.3

(1,158.9)

616.4

(205.8)

410.6

1,236.2

487.7

0.9

1,724.8

(1,115.0)

609.8

(194.7)

415.1

2%

5%

144%

3%

(4%)

1%

(6%)

(1%)

FY2020

FY2019

VARIANCE

213.9

150.1

 63.8 

86%

50.0

37.8

12.2

234

35.5

25.2

76.9%

27.3

17.1

405.5

332

15.7

8,721

7,676

23.5

2.86

214.3

152.3

 62.0 

90%

50.5

38.3

12.2

236

34.2

24.5

75.9%

25.9

16.6

416.0

337

16.0

8,732

7,501

22.9

2.82

(0%)

(1%)

3%

(4.0ppt)

(1%)

(1%)

–

(1%)

4%

3%

(1.0ppt)

(5%)

(3%)

(3%)

(1%)

(2%)

(0%)

2%

3%

(1%)

8  Operational metrics have been restated in prior periods to reflect new reporting which utilises updated data sources 

Coal Performance Overview
Coal EBIT decreased $4.5m (1%) to $410.6m with higher depreciation and operating costs associated with installing additional capacity, technology 
improvements and CPI impacts, partly offset by revenue quality improvements.

Volumes were 213.9mt (-0.4mt; 0%) which was broadly in line with the prior year.

 › Across the CQCN, volumes decreased by 2.2mt (1%) to 150.1mt largely due to customer specific maintenance and production issues which more than 

offset recovery from the one-off supply chain impacts experienced in FY2019

 › In NSW and South-East Queensland (SEQ), volumes increased by 1.8mt (3%) to 63.8mt with higher volumes from MACH Energy partly offset by 

production issues experienced by other key customers

16

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Coal revenue increased by $50.5m (3%) 
to $1,775.3m, with higher above rail revenue 
yield (including CPI impacts) and track access 
revenue following an increase in CQCN access 
tariffs from the finalisation of UT5, partly offset 
by prior year Take-or-Pay recovery.

Total operating costs (including depreciation) 
increased $55.0m (4%) to $1,364.7m with 
higher track access costs and an increase 
in other operating costs and depreciation. 
The major drivers of these movements are 
noted below:

 › Track access costs increased by $35.0m 
(7%) due to the increase in the CQCN 
access tariffs

 › Other operating costs increased $8.9m due 
to increased traincrew and maintenance 
costs to meet expected volume growth and 
wages and consumables escalation, including 
the commencement of new Enterprise 
Agreements. These costs were partly 
offset by lower fuel expenses and ongoing 
efficiency benefits

 › Depreciation increased $11.1m relating to 
the additional installed fleet, overhauls 
of existing rollingstock and technology 
modernisation investments

BULK

Operationally, key productivity metrics 
showed some deterioration given lower 
than expected NTKs. However, average 
payloads and velocity have increased as 
a result of successful efficiency initiatives, 
including increasing consist lengths in the 
Hunter Valley and SEQ and implementing 
improved driver methodologies.

Market update 
Australia exported 176mt of metallurgical coal 
in FY2020, down 4% against the prior year. 
China was Australia's largest metallurgical coal 
export market with export volume of 50mt 
(28% share), followed by India at 40mt (22% 
share) and Japan at 32mt (18% share). Although 
not impacting crude steel production in China, 
increasing by 2% in the six months to June, steel 
capacity in both India and Japan was curtailed 
as a result of COVID-19 with production reducing 
by -24% and -17% respectively over the same 
period. The average hard coking coal price in 
FY2020 fell by 30% (compared to the prior 
year) to US$145/t. In the 12 months to June, 
metallurgical coal exports from the United States 
(the second largest metallurgical coal export 
nation behind Australia) decreased by 20%.

Australia exported a record 213mt of thermal 
coal in FY2020, up 1% against the prior year. 
Japan remained Australia’s largest thermal coal 
export market with export volume of 74mt  
(35% share), followed by China at 52mt  
(24% share) and South Korea at 32mt  
(15% share). This was a record result for China 
and also Vietnam, with the export volume for the 
latter at 13mt (+78%). The average Newcastle 
benchmark thermal coal price in FY2020 fell by 
35% (compared to the prior year) to US$65/t. 
In the 12 months to May, total coal exports 
(almost entirely thermal coal) from Indonesia 
(the largest thermal coal export nation) 
decreased by 2% against the same period 
of the prior year.

Contract update
 › Bluescope – commenced railings in 

April 2020 installing Aurizon into the 
Illawarra region

 › Peabody – commenced railings in July across 

CQCN and NSW under new contracts 

Aurizon’s Bulk business supports a range of customers nationally for bulk materials and commodities, agricultural products and mining and 
industrial inputs. 

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

($M)

Revenue

Freight Transport

Other

Total revenue

Operating costs

EBITDA

Depreciation and amortisation

EBIT

Total tonnes hauled (m)

Operating Ratio (%)

FY2020

FY2019

VARIANCE

583.4

25.4

608.8

(498.7)

110.1

(20.2)

89.9

48.1

85.2%

474.6

27.1

501.7

(447.2)

54.5

(17.2)

37.3

44.6

92.6%

23%

(6%)

21%

(12%)

102%

(17%)

141%

8%

7.4ppt

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

17

Directors’ Report (continued)
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Contract update 
 › South32 Cannington – executed an 11 year 
contract extension out to 2032 for services 
on the Mt Isa corridor

 › Aurizon Port Services – acquired Townsville 

Bulk Storage and Handling to extend 
supply chain services for Bulk customers in 
North Queensland

 › Incitec Pivot Ltd – new contract commenced 
in January 2020 for the haulage of acid and 
fertiliser on the Mt Isa corridor

 › BGC – new contract commenced in June 
2020 hauling cement products on the 
Kalgoorlie Freighter

Bulk Performance Overview

EBIT increased $52.6m (141%) to $89.9m due 
to new volume growth, increased revenue 
quality and ongoing operational efficiencies. 
The result demonstrates the strong progress 
made on the Bulk turnaround program. All 
divisions within the Bulk business are now 
profitable. The result was also supported by 
the decision to not expense sustaining capital 
spend in Bulk East from July 2019 based on 
a more sustainable earnings outlook. 

Revenue increased $107.1m (21%) to $608.8m 
due to:

 › The full year impact of the Linfox agreement 

(no volumes are recorded against this 
contract as it is a hook and pull agreement 
and invoiced on a per service basis)
 › The full year impact of the Glencore 

Freighter service on the Mt Isa corridor 
in October 2018 along with increased 
concentrate volumes

 › The commencement of the Rio Tinto 

contract for the operation and maintenance 
of Rio’s ballast cleaning machine on its 
Western Australian (WA) Pilbara network 
in February 2020

 › The commencement of the Mineral Resource 

contract for the lease of rollingstock, 
provision of mainline crew and Esperance 
yard operations during 2H FY2020

 › The acquisition of Townsville Bulk Storage 

and Handling (renamed Aurizon Port 
Services) from Flinders Ports in March 2020

 › Higher revenue yield through some minor 

contract variations, CPI mechanisms and the 
expiry of a short-term rate relief arrangement 
for an Iron Ore customer in late FY2019

In Bulk East, volumes increased by 0.9mt with 
the commencement of the Glencore Freighter 
service in October 2018 and the significant 
flooding event in 2H FY2019 in North 
Queensland. Overall train services increased 
42% driven by the Linfox contract which 
commenced in February 2019.

In WA, iron ore volumes were up 2.0mt driven 
by the commencement of Mineral Resources 
volumes into Esperance in 2H FY2020. 
Bulk West volumes increased by 0.5mt 
largely due to higher volumes for the South 
West customers. 

Total costs (including depreciation) increased 
$54.5m (12%) largely due to operating costs 
associated with the new volumes, Aurizon Port 
Services and the full year run rate for the Linfox 
contract. This was partly offset by ongoing cost 
benefits from the Bulk turnaround program, 
lower average fuel prices compared to the prior 
year and not expensing Bulk East sustaining 
capital spend from July 2019. 

Market update
Aurizon’s Bulk business includes haulage 
of a range of bulk commodities such as iron 
ore, bauxite, alumina, base metals, grain 
and livestock across WA and Queensland. 
In addition to commodities required to build 
infrastructure, exposure to growth markets 
of fertilisers and batteries will unlock future 
opportunities. In terms of batteries, the global 
uptake of electric vehicles is expected to 
drive demand for commodities such as nickel, 
cobalt, copper and lithium. This is supported by 
increased exploration expenditure in Australia 
– for the nine months ended 31 March 2020, 
copper exploration expenditure increased 
by 54% (compared to the same period of 
the prior year) and nickel (including cobalt) 
exploration expenditure rose by 11%, across 
the same period.

18

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20NETWORK 

Network refers to the business of Aurizon Network Pty Ltd (Network) which operates the 2,670km CQCN. The open access network is the largest 
coal rail network in Australia and one of the country’s most complex, connecting multiple customers from more than 40 mines to five export terminals 
located at three ports. The CQCN includes four major coal systems (Moura, Blackwater, Goonyella and Newlands) and a connecting link (the Goonyella 
to Abbot Point Expansion (GAPE)).

FY2020

FY2019

VARIANCE

1,131.7

56.8

1,188.5

(390.4)

798.1

(329.3)

468.8

FY2020

226.9

56.2

60.6%

2.3

12.8

23.3

83.3%

248

1,070.3

47.4

1,117.7

(396.5)

721.2

(320.9)

400.3

FY2019

232.7

57.9

64.2%

2.3

12.4

23.1

83.8%

249

6%

20%

6%

2%

11%

(3%)

17%

VARIANCE

(2%)

(3%)

3.6ppt

–

(3%)

1%

(0.5ppt)

(0%)

This was partially offset by:

 › A volume related under-recovery of allowable 
revenue in FY2020 of $22.6m compared to 
an over-recovery of $11.8m in FY2019;
 › Unfavourable Revenue Cap movements 

of $57.5m, being a repayment in FY2020 
of both $0.8m in relation to FY2018 and 
$12.2m in relation to FY2019 compared 
to a recovery of $44.5m in FY2019; and

 › GAPE revenue was $2.7m lower.

Access Revenue included the recognition of 
$25.6m Take-or-Pay in relation to the Goonyella 
and Moura systems.

Services and other revenue increased $9.4m 
(20%) mainly due to additional external 
construction works revenue ($9.1m) partially 
offset in expenses.

Operating costs decreased by $6.1m (2%) 
from a reduction in consumables due to lower 
professional services spend (primarily relating 
to UT5 and the WIRP dispute), overhead 
savings and lower employee costs from cost 
saving initiatives which more than offset 
CPI impacts.

Depreciation increased $8.4m (3%) due 
to increased levels of asset renewals and 
ballast undercutting.

Network’s 2018-2019 Regulated Asset 
Base roll-forward is estimated to be $5.5bn 
(including all deferred capital but excluding 
Access Facilitation Deeds of $0.4bn).

Although the volume related under-recovery 
was $22.6m for the year, the revenue cap 
adjustment is expected to be minmal given 
offsets from lower maintenance costs and 
adjustments for rebates and WACC.

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

($M)

Revenue

Track Access

Services and other

Total revenue

Operating costs 

EBITDA

Depreciation and amortisation 

EBIT

METRICS

Tonnes (m)

NTK (bn)

Operating Ratio (%)

Maintenance/NTK ($/’000 NTK) 

Opex/NTK ($/’000 NTK)

Cycle Velocity (km/hr)

System Availability (%)

Average haul length (km)

Network Performance Overview
EBIT improved $68.5m (17%) to $468.8m in 
FY2020, with increased revenue of $70.8m 
(6%) and reduced operating costs of $6.1m 
(2%) partially offset by higher depreciation 
of $8.4m (3%).

Regulatory access revenue has been accounted 
for based on actual railed tonnes using tariffs 
approved by the QCA on 21 February 2020. 
Actual net tonnes were 226.9mt compared 
to the regulatory system forecast of 240.0mt.

Total Access Revenue increased $61.4m (6%), 
benefitting from:

 › Increased regulatory allowable revenue 
of $76.6m including the impact of the 
UT5 Undertaking; 

 › The non-recurrence of the FY2018 true-up 
that impacted FY2019 revenue, totalling 
$60.1m; and 

 › Lower customer funded infrastructure 
rebates, which were $17.8m favourable 
compared to FY2019 due to a combination 
of lower volumes and a true-up adjustment 
following the finalisation of the UT5 
Undertaking as rebates had previously 
been paid on a transitional tariff basis. 

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

19

Directors’ Report (continued)
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

 › Network obtained Rail Industry Group 
(RIG) approval of both the FY2021 
Maintenance Strategy and Budget 
and the FY2021 Renewals Strategy 
and Budget on 14 February 2020

 › On 21 February 2020, the QCA approved 
the consolidated Draft Amending Access 
Undertaking (DAAU) which brought together 
the outcomes from the customer-supported 
UT5 and the Volume Reset DAAU into one 
operational Access Undertaking. Key points 
from this approval included:
•  Reset FY2020 forecast volumes for the 

CQCN from 248.2 to 240.0mt

•  Reduce the FY2020 variable maintenance 
allowance to reflect the lower volumes

•  Reduce the forecast electrical 

infrastructure charges (AT5) to reflect 
lower charges from Transmission 
Network Service Providers

•  Bring-forward the FY2019 Revenue 
cap adjustment from FY2021 to a 
payment in FY2020

 › The QCA approved Network's FY2021 

reference tariff submission on 28 May 2020 
and brought together the following elements, 
which are ultimately reflected in the Access 
tariffs effective from 1 July 2020:
•  Revised FY2021 coal volume forecasts for 

the CQCN from 249.2 to 239.2mt 

•  Updated maintenance indicator for each 
coal system to reflect the RIG-approved 
Maintenance Strategy and Budget
•  Updated capital indicator for each coal 
system to reflect the RIG-approved 
Renewals Strategy and Budget

•  A true-up of the revenues associated with 
the approved FY2018 capital expenditure 
against the Capital Indicator

Regulation Update
 › On 19 December 2019, the Queensland 
Competition Authority (QCA) approved 
the 2017 Access Undertaking (UT5) with 
support from customers representing more 
than 90% of railed tonnes in the CQCN

 › Aurizon continues to progress the 

implementation of UT5. The status of key 
aspects of UT5 is as follows:
•  The term of UT5 is extended to 10 years 

(1 July 2017 to 30 June 2027)

•  The appointment of an Independent 
Expert (IE) to complete initial and 
ongoing capacity assessments and 
to undertake reporting requirements

 – The IE was incorporated on 

20 April 2020, as the Coal Network 
Capacity Co Pty Ltd

 – The IE is in the process of setting up 
for operation with the Chair and the 
Chief Executive Officer appointed

 – Network and its customers 

are continuing to progress the 
development of the Initial Capacity 
Assessment Report while the 
IE is being established with the 
assistance of external consultants

•  Network's weighted average cost 
of capital (WACC) increased from 
5.7% to 5.9% on 3 May 2019, with 
a further increase to 6.3% upon the 
completion of specific milestones by 
both the IE and Network (Report Date). 
QCA approved reference tariffs assume 
the commencement of the WACC uplift 
to 6.3% from 1 March 2020. Future tariffs 
may be adjusted to reflect the actual 
Report Date

•  The Performance Rebate mechanism is 
not applicable for FY2020. The rebate 
will come into effect once Network 
provides its response to the Initial 
Capacity Assessment Report. Transitional 
arrangements may be in effect depending 
on the outcomes of the Initial Capacity 
Assessment Report and any resulting 
remedial requirements

Operational Update
Network maintained strong operational 
performance during FY2020 despite 
challenges presented by bushfires, wet 
weather and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

 › The supply chain delivered the third 

highest volumes on record in the CQCN of 
226.9mt with new monthly CQCN records 
achieved in July and December. Volumes 
during FY2020 were impacted by isolated 
customer demand and production issues 
along with additional reactive maintenance 
requirements particularly during the second 
half of FY2020

 › Total System Availability declined marginally 

from 83.8% to 83.3%

 › Cancellations due to the Network rail 
infrastructure increased from 1.8% to 
2.5% partly reflecting additional reactive 
maintenance requirements, primarily in 
Blackwater and Goonyella 

 › Cycle velocity improved from 23.1km/h 

to 23.3km/h

The RM902, Network’s new ballast cleaning 
machine remains in the commissioning phase 
following the identification of some design 
modification requirements. It is now expected 
that the machine will be fully operational in 
the second half of FY2021. 

Wiggins Island Rail Project (WIRP)
 › During FY2020 legal proceedings 

continued in relation to the notices received 
by Network in September 2015 from WIRP 
customers purporting to exercise a right 
under their WIRP Deeds to reduce their 
financial exposure in respect of payment 
of the non-regulated WIRP fee. On 27 June 
2019, the Supreme Court of Queensland 
ruled in Network’s favour. Customers 
appealed that decision and that appeal 
was heard in the Queensland Court of Appeal 
between 10-12 March 2020. A decision of the 
Queensland Court of Appeal is expected to 
be delivered during 1HFY2021

 › The WIRP customers also initiated other 
disputes under their respective WIRP 
Deeds, which were the subject of an expert 
determination in February 2019. The Expert’s 
Determination was issued on 4 June 2019 
and found that the WIRP Fee should be 
reduced. These disputes relate to the same 
component of WIRP revenue as the Supreme 
Court proceedings and will not impact 
recovery of the regulated access charge 
component of WIRP capital expenditure. 
Network is determining options for appeal 
of this outcome

 › Due to the ongoing dispute, no revenue in 

respect of the WIRP fee has been recognised 
in FY2020

20

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20OTHER

Other includes the provision of maintenance services (e.g. rail grinding) 
to internal and external customers and central costs not allocated such 
as the Board, Managing Director & CEO, Investor Relations, Strategy and 
Company Secretariat. 

($M)

Total revenue

Operating costs

EBITDA

Depreciation and 
amortisation 

EBIT

FY2020

FY2019

VARIANCE

40.7

(97.7)

(57.0)

(3.3)

82.2

(96.1)

(13.9)

(9.8)

(50%)

(2%)

(310%)

66%

(60.3)

(23.7)

(154%)

Other Performance Overview
EBIT decreased by $36.6m (154%) mainly due to reduced earnings from 
the sale of the Rail Grinding business which completed in October 2019 
and the recovery of a $20.3m doubtful debt in FY2019.

INTERMODAL – DISCONTINUED OPERATION 

($M)

Total revenue

Operating costs 

EBITDA – Underlying

Depreciation and 
amortisation 

EBIT – Underlying

Significant Items

Net finance benefit

Income tax (expense)/
benefit

NPAT (Discontinued 
operations) – Statutory

FY2020

FY2019

VARIANCE

25.0

(12.1)

12.9

(0.2)

12.7

2.5

–

(4.4)

10.8

111.0

(104.1)

6.9

(0.2)

6.7

(11.4)

0.1

7.8

3.2

(77%)

88%

87%

–

90%

122%

(100%)

(156%)

238%

Intermodal Performance Overview
The EBIT position for Intermodal improved $6.0m to $12.7m with the sale 
of Queensland Intermodal in the prior period.

OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT UPDATE 
As part of Aurizon’s Strategy In Action, particularly the Optimise and 
Excel levers, Aurizon continues to focus on operational efficiency to 
continuously improve its operational performance, asset efficiency and 
cost competitiveness. Through the Optimise and Excel levers, Aurizon is 
making targeted investments in technology on the journey to continuous 
improvement. Outlined below are the major initiatives being pursued in 
the business.

Precision Railroading Operations

Precision Scheduled Railroading (Precision) ultimately delivers better 
value for Aurizon’s customers and shareholders. 

Partnerships across the supply chain are critical to facilitating a step-
change in system throughput using a disciplined and evidence-based 
approach to scheduling, execution and continuous improvement. 
The focus of Precision in FY2020 has been twofold:

 › Improve system performance in Blackwater through the 

implementation of the Schedule Adherence operating mode. Schedule 
Adherence brings further discipline to train operations and creates a 
stable baseline from which to drive operational improvements. By Q4 
FY2020, the Schedule Adherence process had been implemented with 
a high degree of consistency within the business and resulted in the 
following improvements compared with the FY2019 baseline9:
•  On-time arrival to mine improved from 47% to 86%
•  On-time arrival to port improved from 16% to 60%
•  A 20% reduction in service cancellations to Network and 

Operator causes

 › Establish the Precision master plan, comprised of five key workstreams 

which are driving operational improvements:
•  Fleet Performance
•  Network Performance
•  Day of Operations Optimisation
•  Modern Planning & Scheduling
•  Resource Performance

These workstreams have identified numerous process and operational 
changes in both the Coal and Network business units. The primary 
objective of these workstreams is to reduce train turnaround time which 
in turn creates options for Aurizon to deliver additional throughput and/
or reduce the rollingstock capital requirements of Aurizon Operations. 
The Precision project team is working closely with relevant stakeholders 
to implement these changes throughout FY2021.

9  Baseline is the 12 week period (to 1 December 2018) immediately preceding Schedule Adherence

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

21

Directors’ Report (continued)
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

TrainGuard 

TrainHealth

Optimise Strategic Lever 

TrainGuard is a platform utilising ETCS 
(European Train Control System) technology 
to support driver decision making, particularly 
in relation to speed control and signal 
enforcement. TrainGuard will support safer and 
more efficient train operations with reduced 
rail process safety issues and improved train 
handling. TrainGuard is also a pathway to 
expanding our driver only operations in Central 
Queensland. Operational demonstration of 
TrainGuard was completed as planned in Q4 
FY2020. Following this, the business decision 
to proceed with deployment of TrainGuard 
across Blackwater and Goonyella has been 
communicated to stakeholders. TrainGuard’s 
next phase is deployment on the Blackwater 
mainline (Callemondah to Bluff) by the end 
of calendar year 2021.

Asset Maintenance

A project plan and multi-year project has 
been established and a dedicated project 
team stood up to work in close collaboration 
with the business stakeholders. 

The program of work is broken down into five 
distinct but complementary work streams:

 › Governance and Management
 › Maintenance Program
 › Supply Chain and Vendor Management
 › Planning Processes
 › Shop floor and work procedures

All workstreams are being advanced in 
parallel with initial work standardisation, 
depot efficiency and supply chain processes 
indicating positive early results to solidify 
our maintenance capability. Preparation work 
to transform the maintenance program and 
move towards condition based and predictive 
maintenance is underway with a rollout in our 
key fleets during FY2021. The outcome of the 
program will ensure the optimal amount of 
the right maintenance, completed on time. 
Benefits include: reduction in the maintenance 
cost base, enhanced turnaround time in depots 
and increased fleet reliability, availability and 
optimising the investment in the rollingstock 
assets. The program is complementary to 
Project Precision and will leverage from other 
technology investments to maximise benefits 
and performance.

TrainHealth provides Aurizon with capability 
to monitor performance of locomotives and 
train handling/utilisation in real time. This 
initiative enables access to real time asset 
data that is being used to inform the health 
of the locomotive, enhance asset reliability 
and maintenance decisions for the fleet, 
provide greater visibility on driver variability 
and support business decisions for on-time 
running. TrainHealth is initially being installed 
across the Siemens electric locomotive fleet 
in the CQCN, with installation expected to be 
completed by December 2020. Approximately 
half of the Siemens fleet has been fitted 
to date. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Senior Management Changes
Pam Bains, CFO & Group Executive Strategy 
was appointed to the role of Group Executive 
Network in March 2020 following the 
resignation of Michael Riches in December 
2019. George Lippiatt, Head of Strategy 
and Corporate Development was appointed 
to the role of CFO & Group Executive 
Strategy in June 2020. 

Risk
Aurizon promotes a risk-aware culture with 
an emphasis on frontline accountability for 
effective risk management. The consideration 
of risk features heavily in Aurizon’s thinking, 
from the framing of strategy through to 
informing decision-making. In 2020, Aurizon 
updated the Board approved Enterprise Risk 
Management Framework and Appetite to 
encompass culture and conduct-related risks, 
among others. This latest update ensures that 
Aurizon continues to consider and develop 
strategies to manage the full scope of risks.

Enhancements have also been made to the 
risk reporting provided both to our Board and 
supporting Committees, to better facilitate the 
early identification and proactive management 
of emerging risks where the impacts and 
opportunities are continually evolving.

Risks to the delivery of strategy have been 
categorised into the three strategic levers 
of Optimise, Excel and Extend. 

Delivery of Optimise Initiatives 
Aurizon maintains a pipeline of efficiency 
initiatives that are expected to deliver a 
cost effective and customer aligned model. 
Failure to be the lowest cost or highest 
service provider may occur due to a lack of 
definition in the target state or unsuccessful 
implementation of the associated action plans. 
Impacts of non-delivery include not achieving 
budget and failure to maximise volumes within 
customer contracts.

Operational Agility 
A lack of operational agility would result 
in Aurizon’s inability to flex operations and 
support an alignment between costs and 
revenue. If operational agility is not achieved 
it may result in missed revenue during market 
upturns due to a lag in accessing the required 
resources, or static costs during downturns 
eroding financial performance. 

Business Interruption 
Aurizon may experience business interruption 
and consequential financial impact from a 
range of circumstances including, but not 
limited to: 

 › Road Vehicle Incident – death or injuries 

to our people from operating road vehicles 

 › Process Safety Incident – major process 
safety event leading to death or injuries 
to our people, significant distraction or 
loss of license to operate 

 › Illegal protest activity – safety risks to 

employees and individuals due to anti-coal 
protesters illegally entering the rail corridor 
and danger zone to conduct blockades
 › Cyber security incidents from external 
penetration of Aurizon’s corporate and 
operational systems

 › Technology incidents – failure of technical 

infrastructure impacting technology-
dependent systems and operations 
 › Adverse weather events could impact 

Aurizon’s operations, assets or customers 

22

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20COVID-19
The global Coronavirus pandemic exposes 
Aurizon to two primary risks:

 › Reduced demand – due to export markets 
requiring less of the commodities we haul, 
Aurizon’s profitability would reduce.

 › Service delivery – employee health issues 
limiting our ability to provide services to 
customers. This risk extends to other supply 
chain participants such as mines and ports, 
and their ability to provide continuity 
of service.

Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal 
sale transaction
There is a risk that the Acacia Ridge Intermodal 
Terminal sale transaction as described on 
page 15 of this report will be prevented from 
completing and Aurizon incurs orders for costs.

Excel Strategic Lever 

Competition in Current Markets 
Aurizon may face competition from parties 
willing to compete at reduced margins and/or 
accept lower returns and greater risk positions 
than Aurizon. This may potentially negatively 
impact Aurizon’s competitiveness. Most of 
Aurizon’s significant customer contracts 
are secured on long-dated terms, however 
failure to win or retain customer contracts at 
acceptable rates will be a risk to future financial 
performance. Increased competition may be 
experienced from new entrants to Aurizon’s 
core markets in both above and below rail 
and includes existing customers in-sourcing 
Aurizon’s services. Competitors may also 
deploy technology or innovation more rapidly 
than Aurizon.

General Regulatory Risk 
Aurizon’s operations and financial performance 
are subject to legislative and regulatory 
oversight. Unfavourable changes may be 
experienced with respect to access regimes, 
safety accreditation, taxation, carbon 
reduction, environmental and industrial 
(including occupational health and safety) 
regulation, government policy, and approval 
processes. Implementation of these changes 
may have a material adverse impact on project 
investment, Aurizon’s profitability and business 
in general, as well as Aurizon’s customers.

Implementation of the UT5 obligation to 
publish an Initial Capacity Assessment Report 
could be delayed, resulting in an adverse 
financial outcome.

Aurizon is also exposed to the risk of material 
regulatory breaches resulting in the loss of 
operating licences and financial penalties. In 
the event of a loss of licence, critical business 
operations may not be supplied to customers, 
impacting profitability and reputation. 

Counterparty Risk
Aurizon’s earnings are concentrated in 
commodity markets across a relatively small 
number of customers and may be impacted 
by deterioration in counterparty credit 
quality, mine sale to a lower tier party, mine 
profitability, contract renewals, supply chain 
disruptions and/or macro-industry issues. 

General Economic Conditions
Aurizon develops its own position regarding 
future coal demand through our Strategy 
in Uncertainty framework which includes 
scenario analysis. This process considers 
both short-term impacts as well as risks that 
emerge over the medium to long term, where 
the timing and magnitude are less certain. In 
developing our own scenario analysis we assess 
global seaborne demand for metallurgical 
coal and thermal coal, driven primarily by 
steel production and energy generation 
respectively. Based on this addressable market, 
Australian supply is assessed considering the 
risks and opportunities for both current and 
future coal production. Given our customers' 
exposure (almost entirely) to export markets, 
trade and geopolitical risk may impact demand 
for Aurizon services.

Extend Strategic Lever 

WIRP Non-Regulated Revenue Dispute 
Given the decision of the Supreme Court  
has been appealed by the customers,  
there is potential the entire amount of the 
WIRP non-regulated fee as described in the 
Network Section of this report is determined 
by the Court of Appeal to not be payable by 
the WIRP customers.

Climate Change Risk 
Aurizon acknowledges that climate change 
is affecting a wide range of industries around 
the world, resulting in financial implications. 
Transition risks, related to energy policy, 
regulation, technology and market shifts 
(that are necessary to achieve the transition 
to a low-carbon economy) will affect the 
demand for the commodities that Aurizon 
hauls. Physical risks related to extreme weather 
events will also continue to affect Aurizon 
through supply chain disruptions. 

The long-term implications of climate change 
may impact Aurizon on several fronts. 
For example: 

Transition Risks

 › Demand for thermal coal is subject to energy 

policy and fuel-mix decisions driven by 
energy costs, energy security, and regulation 
of GHG emissions (including carbon pricing)
 › Demand for metallurgical coal is subject to 

factors such as economic development, steel 
intensive growth, alternate methods of steel 
production, import reliance and regulation 
of GHG emissions (including carbon pricing)

 › Investor concern over climate-related risks 
may result in an inability for Aurizon, its 
customers and end-users of coal to gain 
licences, funding and insurance for coal 
mining, transport and coal-fired generation 
and/or steel production capacity
 › Carbon liability under the Safeguard 

Mechanism Rule and potential penalties for 
inappropriate carbon reporting under the 
National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting 
(NGER) Act

Physical Risks

 › Current and future disruption arising 

from increased severity and/or frequency 
of extreme weather events (higher 
temperatures, strong winds, flooding and 
associated erosion, bushfires and others)

Climate change risks and opportunities are 
disclosed annually in Aurizon’s Sustainability 
Report. This year will be the fourth reporting 
period in which Aurizon incorporates 
recommendations from the Financial Stability 
Board’s Final Report: Recommendation of 
the Task Force on Climate-related Financial 
Disclosures (TCFD). In addition, in 2020 
Aurizon will publish a Climate Strategy and 
Action Plan, outlining the Company’s position 
on climate change, underpinned by long-term 
strategies and associated actions to mitigate 
climate risk and take advantage of climate-
related opportunities.

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

23

Directors’ Report (continued)
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Sustainability 
Aurizon keeps stakeholders informed of 
its corporate governance and financial 
performance via announcements to the 
Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and 
the Company’s website. Investors can access 
copies of announcements to the ASX, notices 
of meetings, annual reports, policies, investor 
presentations, webcasts, and transcripts of 
those presentations on this site.

In addition to the above disclosures, Aurizon 
takes a direct approach to reporting 
Environmental, Social and Governance 
(ESG) disclosures to stakeholders with the 
publication of our annual Sustainability Report. 
This Report is prepared with reference to the 
Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) standards to 
provide investors with comparable information 
relating to ESG performance. Aurizon strives to 
ensure that our Sustainability Report reflects 
significant ESG priorities that may influence 
strategic decision-making. As such, the 
Company continuously assesses the material 
issues that affect its business, stakeholders, 
and operating environment. 

In August 2019, Aurizon maintained a 'Leading’ 
rating for the fifth consecutive year by the 
Australian Council of Superannuation Investors 
(ACSI) for Corporate Sustainability Reporting 
in Australia. Having received this rating for four 
or more consecutive years, Aurizon has again 
been considered a ‘Leader’ by ACSI, along with 
45 other ASX200 companies.

In addition to our annual Sustainability Report 
(to be published in October), in 2020 we will 
publish a Climate Strategy and Action Plan that 
will communicate our plans to decarbonise 
our operations and provide direction for the 
Company’s long-term climate change strategy. 

Safety 
At Aurizon safety is a core value and we are 
committed to protecting ourselves, each other 
and our communities. Throughout FY2020, 
we retained two primary safety metrics to 
measure safety outcomes across the enterprise 
being Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate 
(TRIFR) and Rail Process Safety (RPS). 

Rail Process Safety, which measures 
operational safety including derailments, 
signals passed at danger and rollingstock 
collisions deteriorated 8% against the prior 
year to 4.74. Aurizon continues to progress 
a number of initiatives, including Train Guard, 
to strengthen Rail Process Safety. 

FY2020 TRIFR was 9.92 injuries per million 
hours worked, which was a 10% improvement 
against the prior year. 

We are determined to focus on managing what 
matters, with a specific focus on identifying 
and learning from events that have the 
potential for Serious Injury and Fatality (SIF).

In September 2019, the Federal Department 
of Environment and Energy advised off-road 
diesel transport, including rail freight, was 
exempt from the introduction of national 
standards for the regulation of off-road 
engines. This decision gave due recognition 
to actions the rail freight industry, led by 
Aurizon, has taken to manage emissions 
by introducing CoP. 

In FY2020, Aurizon had six notifiable 
environmental incidents. Remediation 
actions have been implemented as required 
and no ongoing environmental impacts 
are anticipated.

People 
At Aurizon our values (Safety, People, Integrity, 
Customer and Excellence) guide our people’s 
work in delivering bulk commodities to the 
world. During the year we have continued 
to focus on developing the capability of 
our people through:

 › Leadership programs designed to embed 
a safe and high performing culture and 
engage and enable employees

 › Further improve our people, processes and 
systems through cascading performance 
succession systems through the organisation 
and further embedding a quality 
performance management cycle
 › Continuing to promote diversity and 

inclusion through actively reducing the 
gender pay gap, meeting workforce 
representation targets and implementing an 
online Culture Awareness learning experience

Environment

Aurizon’s vision is to deliver environmental 
value through effective management of 
material environmental risks and improved 
enterprise environmental performance.

Aurizon continues to focus on efforts to 
improve visibility and transparency related to 
key and emerging environmental issues such 
as climate change, rail noise and clean air.

In July 2019, the NSW government introduced 
legislation requiring Rolling Stock Operators 
(RSOs) to apply for mandatory Environment 
Protection Licences (EPL) by January 2020. 
The EPLs, set to be finalised in August 2020, 
are significant as they establish acceptable 
thresholds for locomotive diesel emissions 
and rail noise. Aurizon was first aware of the 
potential for this requirement in 2014 and, 
since this time, has led extensive consultation 
with the NSW Environment Protection 
Authority (EPA). The EPA recognised 
the past efforts of RSOs, led by Aurizon, 
in developing the 2018 Rail Industry and 
Standards Board (RISSB) Code of Practice 
(CoP) on the Management of Locomotive 
Diesel Emissions. This acknowledgement 
ultimately led to the EPA setting the CoP 
requirements as conditions of the EPLs. 
Aurizon’s deep experience in rollingstock 
engineering enabled effective input to the 
EPA’s approach to EPL implementation.

24

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Directors’ Report (continued)
REMUNERATION REPORT

Dear fellow shareholders 

On behalf of the Board, we are pleased to present Aurizon’s Financial Year (FY) 2020 Remuneration Report. The Board believes that the Company has 
performed well during a challenging year and wishes to recognise the Leadership Team's performance in executing our business strategy, for improving 
the core business of delivering bulk commodity transport solutions for our customers, and for achieving key milestones during the year. 

Being an essential service provider to the Australian economy, Aurizon has continued to operate throughout the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, with the 
health and wellbeing of our employees paramount. A range of proactive workplace protocols and measures, aligned with expert health and government 
advice, has been maintained throughout our operations. The Board would like to thank all employees across the business for their ongoing dedication and 
discipline throughout this challenging period. 

We were saddened by the death in December 2019 of one of our employees, Hans Ah Chee, in a work motor vehicle accident. Hans was a highly 
respected train driver working in our Coal business in Central Queensland. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has advised it has considered all 
issues relating to the accident and is not investigating the matter any further. 

The Short Term Incentive (STI) Award for FY2020 continued to be based on annual performance measures of Underlying Earnings Before Interest and 
Tax (EBIT), Safety and Individual Key Deliverables. Business Unit earnings measures were introduced for Bulk and Coal in FY2019 and Network in FY2020. 

Target performance was achieved for Group Underlying EBIT of $909 million in FY2020. Outcomes varied across the Business Units, with Bulk achieving 
Stretch performance, Network achieving an outcome between Threshold and Target, while Coal performance was below Threshold. 

During the year there was a mixed result across the Safety measures with a 10% improvement in the Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR) 
and an 8% deterioration in Rail Process Safety (Total Accident Rate, Signals Passed at Danger and Collisions). Despite the improvement in TRIFR, the 
safety targets were not achieved and no reward was allocated for the Enterprise Safety performance. 

The mixed performance across the Enterprise and Business Unit earnings measures and individual measures is reflected directly in the STI payments for 
our Executive Key Management Personnel (KMP). The Board has determined that above Target outcomes will be awarded to Bulk participants, with the 
remaining participants receiving overall outcomes below Target. The Board have determined that no adjustment will be made to STI outcomes as a result 
of the fatality.

The Long Term Incentive (LTI) Award performance measures are Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) and relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR). During 
FY2020, the 2017 (3 year) LTI Award was subject to testing. No portion of the ROIC component vested and these rights will lapse. A positive TSR of 6% 
was achieved over the period. Relative TSR ranked above the median and therefore 16.5% of the total award will vest in August 2020. 

The fixed remuneration of the Executive KMP was reviewed and benchmarked against an external peer group. As a result of this review, increases were 
awarded between 3.5-5% and 10% (Group Executive Bulk) effective 1 July 2019. The MD & CEO did not receive any fixed remuneration increase.

Due to the uncertainty in the economic outlook, the Board has determined that no fixed remuneration increases will be awarded to the Executive KMP 
in FY2021. 

The Board also determined that, from FY2021, an adjustment would be made to the remuneration for the MD & CEO. This adjustment will see the 
maximum opportunity of the LTI increase from 120% to 150% of fixed remuneration, and further aligns remuneration and shareholder outcomes. 

In FY2020, the Board continued to review and refine Aurizon’s remuneration framework. Some changes were made to the governing rules to strengthen 
Board discretion, extend the definition of a claw-back event and formalise Good Leaver guidelines. The Board will continue to review the framework to 
ensure it delivers against Aurizon's remuneration principles and remains effective in driving performance.

The Board considers that these overall remuneration outcomes reach an appropriate balance between shareholder outcomes, uncertainty in the 
economic outlook, and recognising the significant value-adding contribution of the MD & CEO and Leadership Team. 

We are grateful for your ongoing support.

Yours faithfully,

Tim Poole  
Chairman

Kate Vidgen 
Chair, Remuneration and 
Human Resources Committee

REMUNERATION REPORT 

25

 
Directors’ Report (continued)
REMUNERATION REPORT

1. 
 Remuneration Report Introduction
Aurizon’s remuneration practices are aligned 
with the Company’s strategy of providing 
rewards that drive and reflect the creation 
of shareholder value, while attracting and 
retaining Directors and Executives with the 
right capability to achieve results.

The Remuneration Report for the year ended 
30 June 2020 is set out as per Table 1. The 
information in this Report has been audited.

2.  Directors and Executives
The Key Management Personnel (KMP) of the Group (being those whose remuneration must be 
disclosed in this Report) include the Non-Executive Directors and those Executives who have the 
authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of Aurizon.

The Non-Executive Directors and Executives that formed part of the KMP for the Financial Year 
(FY) ended 30 June 2020 are identified in Table 2.

Table 3 identifies other persons who were KMP at some time during FY2020. 

TABLE 2 – KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL

NAME

POSITION

TABLE 1 – TABLE OF CONTENTS

NON–EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

SECTION CONTENTS

PAGE

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Remuneration Report 
Introduction

Directors and Executives

Remuneration 
Framework Components

Company Performance 
for Financial Year 2020

Take Home Pay

Short Term Incentive 
Award

Long Term Incentive 
Award

Executive Employment 
Agreements

Non-Executive Director 
Remuneration

Executive Remuneration 
for Financial Year 2020

26

26

27

29

29

30

32

34

35

36

T Poole

M Bastos

R Caplan

M Fraser

S Lewis

S Ryan1

L Strambi2

K Vidgen

EXECUTIVE KMP

A Harding

P Bains3

G Lippiatt4

C McDonald

E McKeiver

Chairman, Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Independent Non-Executive Director

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer

Group Executive Network

Chief Financial Officer & Group Executive Strategy

Group Executive Bulk

Group Executive Coal

1  S Ryan was appointed a Director on 1 December 2019
2  L Strambi was appointed a Director on 1 December 2019
3   P Bains was appointed Group Executive Network on 9 March 2020 and prior to this held the role of Chief 

Financial Officer & Group Executive Strategy 

4   G Lippiatt was appointed Chief Financial Officer & Group Executive Strategy on 9 March 2020 in an acting 

capacity, and permanently on 30 June 2020

TABLE 3 – FORMER KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL

NAME

EXECUTIVE KMP

M Riches1

POSITION

Group Executive Network

1  M Riches ceased in role on 17 December 2019 and with the Company on 30 June 2020 

26

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
3.   Remuneration Framework 

FIGURE 1 – TOTAL POTENTIAL REMUNERATION1

Components 

Total Potential Remuneration 
Aurizon’s Remuneration Framework for each 
Executive comprises three components:

 › Fixed remuneration (not ‘at risk’) that 
comprises salary and other benefits, 
including superannuation

 › STIA (‘at risk’ component, awarded on the 

achievement of performance conditions over 
a 12-month period) that comprises both a 
cash component and a component deferred 
for 12 months into equity

 › LTIA (‘at risk’ component, awarded on the 

achievement of performance conditions over 
a four-year period) that comprises only an 
equity component

The structure is intended to provide an 
appropriate mix of fixed and variable 
remuneration, and provide a combination 
of incentives intended to drive performance 
against the Company’s short and longer-term 
business objectives.

The mix of potential remuneration components 
for FY2020 for the MD & CEO and Executive 
KMP is set out in Figure 1: Total Potential 
Remuneration. During the year, the Board 
reviewed the remuneration for the MD & 
CEO and has determined that, from FY2021, 
the maximum opportunity of the LTI will 
be increased from 120% to 150% of fixed 
remuneration. This change ensures alignment 
with the external market and increases 
the proportion of the remuneration mix 
aligned with the interests of shareholders. 
The remuneration for other Executive KMP 
remains unchanged.

Executive Remuneration Governance
Figure 2 represents Aurizon’s remuneration 
governance framework. Details on the 
composition of the Remuneration and 
Human Resources Committee (Committee) 
are set out on page 9 of this report. The 
Committee’s Charter is available in the 
Governance section of the Company’s 
website at www.aurizon.com.au

EXECUTIVE KMP: CASH COMPONENT: 51% 

EQUITY COMPONENT: 49%

30%

21%

14%

35%

MD & CEO (PRIOR TO FY2021): CASH COMPONENT: 51% 

EQUITY COMPONENT: 49%

27%

24%

16%

33%

MD & CEO (FROM FY2021): CASH COMPONENT: 47% 

EQUITY COMPONENT: 53%

24%

23%

15%

38%

Fixed Remuneration

STIA

Deferred STIA

LTIA

1   Assumes achievement of the stretch performance hurdle outcomes for STIA, full vesting of the Deferred STIA and 
LTIA at a value equal to the maximum opportunity of the original award i.e. assuming no share price appreciation

FIGURE 2 – REMUNERATION GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK

BOARD
The Board:
 › Approves the overall remuneration policy and 

ensures it is competitive, fair and aligned with the 
long-term interests of the Company

 › Approves Non-Executive Director remuneration, 

MD & CEO and Executive Committee remuneration
 › Assesses the performance of, and determines the 

STIA outcome for, the MD & CEO giving due weight 
to objective performance measures while retaining 
discretion to determine final outcomes

 › Considers and determines the STIA outcomes 
of the Executive Committee based on the 
recommendations of the MD & CEO

REMUNERATION AND  
HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE
The Remuneration and Human Resources Committee 
is delegated responsibility by the Board to review 
and make recommendations on:

 › The remuneration policies and framework for 

the Company

 › Non-Executive Director remuneration
 › Remuneration for MD & CEO and Executive Committee
 › Executive incentive arrangements

MANAGEMENT
 › Provides information relevant to remuneration 
decisions and makes recommendations to the 
Remuneration and Human Resources Committee
 › Obtains remuneration information from external 
advisors to assist the Remuneration and Human 
Resources Committee (i.e. market data, legal 
advice, accounting advice, tax advice)

CONSULTATION WITH 
SHAREHOLDERS AND 
OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

REMUNERATION 
CONSULTANTS AND 
OTHER EXTERNAL 
ADVISORS
In performing duties and 
making recommendations 
to the Board, the 
Remuneration and Human 
Resources Committee may, 
from time to time, appoint 
and engage independent 
advisors directly in relation 
to remuneration matters. 
These advisors:

 › Review and provide 

recommendations on the 
appropriateness of the 
MD & CEO and Executive 
remuneration

 › Provide independent 
advice, information 
and recommendations 
relevant to remuneration 
decisions

Any advice or 
recommendations provided 
by external advisors are 
used to assist the Board – 
they do not substitute 
for the Board and 
Remuneration and Human 
Resources Committee 
processes

REMUNERATION REPORT

27

 
 
Directors’ Report (continued)
REMUNERATION REPORT

Remuneration Framework and objectives Financial Year 2020

During FY2019 and FY2020, the Board continued to review and refine Aurizon’s remuneration framework. The Board has determined that the current 
framework, as summarised in Figure 3, continues to deliver against our remuneration principles and, with minor adjustments, remains effective in 
driving performance. The Board will continue to review the framework and assess alternative structures implemented in the market. 

FIGURE 3 – REMUNERATION FRAMEWORK AND OBJECTIVES FOR FINANCIAL YEAR 2020

PERFORMANCE MEASURE

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES AND  
LINK TO PERFORMANCE

FY2020 FRAMEWORK  
CHANGES

D
E
X
F

I

I

N
O
T
A
R
E
N
U
M
E
R

M
R
E
T
T
R
O
H
S

D
R
A
W
A
E
V
T
N
E
C
N

I

I

Considerations:
 › Experience and qualifications
 › Role and responsibility
 › Retain key capability
 › Reference to remuneration paid by  
similar-sized companies in similar 
industry sectors

 ›

Internal and external relativities

 › Underlying EBIT (Enterprise and, 
if applicable, Business Unit) (60%)

 › Safety (10%)
 ›

Individual (30%)

Measured over a one-year performance 
period

Participants can earn up to a maximum 
of 150% of “at-target” remuneration

STIA at Risk:
MD & CEO: Target 100% of Fixed 
Remuneration and maximum 150% 
of Fixed Remuneration

Other Executive KMP: Target 75% 
of Fixed Remuneration and maximum 
112.5% of Fixed Remuneration

 › Relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR) 

(50%)

 › Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) (50%)

Measured over a four-year 
performance period 

LTIA at Risk (Maximum):
MD & CEO: 120% of Fixed Remuneration

Other Executive KMP: 112.5% of Fixed 
Remuneration

M
R
E
T
G
N
O
L

D
R
A
W
A
E
V
T
N
E
C
N

I

I

 › Effective 1 July 2019, fixed 

remuneration increases were 
provided to Executive KMP to 
ensure alignment with external 
peer group:
•  GE Coal (3.5%)
•  CFO & GE Strategy (5%)
•  GE Bulk (10%)

 › The MD & CEO did not receive 

an increase 

 ›

Introduction of Business Unit 
measure (Underlying EBIT) 
for Coal, Bulk (FY2019) and 
Network (FY2020)

 › A review is underway to assess 
alternative reward structures 
and performance metrics to 
support an improvement in 
Safety performance

 › Governing rules updated to 

strengthen Board discretion, 
extend definition of claw-back 
event (DSTIA) and formalised 
Good Leaver guideline 

 › For the MD & CEO, from FY2021, 
the maximum opportunity of the 
LTI will be increased from 120% 
to 150% of Fixed Remuneration 

 › To attract and retain Executives with 
the right capability to achieve results

The financial and non-financial 
performance measures were 
chosen because:

 › Underlying EBIT delivers direct 

financial benefits to shareholders
 › Safety drives a continuous safety 

 ›

improvement culture and embeds safe, 
efficient and effective processes across 
all aspects of a heavy industry business
Individual aligns employee contribution 
to the achievement of the Company 
strategy. At the start of the performance 
year the Board determines the MD 
& CEO individual strategic measures. 
Relevant measures are cascaded 
to the Executive Committee and 
throughout the Company

 › Relative TSR is a measure of the 
return generated for Aurizon’s 
shareholders over the performance 
period relative to a specific peer 
group of companies (from the 
ASX100 Index)

 › ROIC reflects the fact that Aurizon 

operates a capital-intensive 
business and our focus should be 
on maximising the level of return 
generated on the capital we invest

Note: Minimum shareholding 
requirements for Executive KMP and the 
remainder of the Executive Committee 
encourages retention of shares and 
alignment with shareholder interests

Total Remuneration 
Overall, Executive remuneration is designed to support the delivery of superior shareholder returns by placing a significant proportion of an 
Executive’s total potential remuneration at risk and awarding a significant portion of at risk pay in equity

28

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.   Company Performance for Financial Year 2020
Aurizon reported Group Underlying Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) of $909 million for continuing operations for year ended 30 June 2020, 
in line with EBIT guidance range ($880m – $930m). 

Being an essential service provider to the Australian economy, Aurizon has continued to operate throughout the challenging coronavirus pandemic 
(COVID-19) period, with the health and wellbeing of our employees paramount. Progress has continued in executing the business strategy 
and achieving key milestones during FY2020. 

Table 4 shows historical Company performance across a range of key measures. Performance across earnings and individual measures is reflected directly 
in STIA payments. LTIA outcomes are aligned with the shareholder experience over the last three years. Detail related to performance against the FY2020 
STIA performance measures is provided in Table 6 (page 31). Table 8 (page 32) provides additional information related to the LTIA performance outcomes.

TABLE 4 – HISTORICAL COMPANY PERFORMANCE AGAINST KEY MEASURES 

KEY PERFORMANCE MEASURES

DESCRIPTION

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

FY2017

FY2016

Group Underlying EBIT1

Bulk Underlying EBIT2

Coal Underlying EBIT2

Network Underlying EBIT2

Return on Invested Capital

$m

$m

$m

$m

%

Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR)3

per million work hours

Rail Process Safety (RPS)4

per million train kilometres

Total Shareholder Return (TSR)

3-year TSR

%

%

909

90

411

469

10.9

9.92

4.74

-9.6

6.0

829

37

415

400

9.7

11.07

4.38

28.2

25.5

941

50

429

481

10.9

10.02

5.08

-13.6

-5.5

884

871

9.3

7.12

15.8

26.3

8.6

9.88

-8.6

18.9

1  Continuing operations
2  Business Unit model was introduced from FY2018 
3  From FY2018, TRIFR definition has been redefined and contractor statistics have been included. Performance unaudited prior to FY2018.
4  Rail Process Safety (Total Accident Rate and Signals Passed at Danger) was introduced from FY2018

5.  Take Home Pay 
Table 5 identifies the actual remuneration 
earned during FY2020 for Executive KMP.

The table has not been prepared in accordance 
with accounting standards but has been provided 
to ensure shareholders are able to clearly 
understand the remuneration outcomes for 
Executive KMP. Remuneration outcomes, which 
are prepared in accordance with the accounting 
standards, are provided in Section 10 (page 36).

Following a market review, effective 1 July 2019, 
fixed remuneration increases were provided to 
Executive KMP (between 3.5% to 10%) to ensure 
alignment with external peer group. The MD & 
CEO did not receive an increase. 

The remuneration outcomes identified in 
Table 5 are directly linked to the Company 
performance described in Section 6 (page 30) 
and Section 7 (page 32).

The actual STIA is dependent on Aurizon, 
Business Unit and individual performance 
as described in Section 6. 

Varying performance across our key measures 
is also reflected directly in the payments for our 
Executive KMP, which range from 43% to 88% 
of their potential maximum. 

The actual vesting of the LTIA is dependent 
on Aurizon’s performance and the outcomes 
are further described in Section 7. 

During FY2020, the 2017 Award (3 year) was 
subject to testing. Relative TSR ranked above 
the median and therefore 16.5% of the award 
will vest in August 2020. No portion of the ROIC 
component vested and these rights will lapse. 

Movement in the Aurizon share price over 
the various performance periods is reflected 
in the remuneration outcomes for Executive 
KMP, aligning the Executive KMP outcomes 
with the shareholder experience.

TABLE 5 – REMUNERATION EARNED IN FINANCIAL YEAR 2020 

FIXED 
REMUNERATION  
$’000

NON‑MONETARY 
BENEFITS1  
$’000

STIA  
CASH2 
$’000

STIA DEFERRED  
FROM PRIOR YEAR3 
$’000

LTIA  
VESTING4 
$’000

SHARE PRICE 
DEPRECIATION5 
$’000

ACTUAL FY2020 
REMUNERATION OUTCOMES  
$’000

NAME

EXECUTIVE KMP

A Harding

P Bains

G Lippiatt6

C McDonald

E McKeiver

1,717

788

129

667

683

–

5

–

29

3

981

328

61

394

200

1,031

338

–

273

277

252

97

32

83

89

(202)

(67)

(2)

(54)

(55)

3,779

1,489

220

1,392

1,197

1   The amount relates to reportable Fringe Benefits for the respective FBT year ending 31 March and includes travel benefits and relocation assistance
2   The amount relates to the cash component (60%) of the FY2020 STIA which will be paid in September 2020
3   The amount relates to the deferred component (40%) of the FY2019 STIA which was awarded in performance rights and will become unrestricted in September 2020 

(calculation assumes a share price of $6.03)

4   The amount is the value of rights which will vest in August 2020 (ie a portion of the 2017 Award (3-year)) (calculation assumes share price of $5.17)
5   The amount is the number of rights which vest multiplied by the decrease in the Aurizon share price over the period ended 30 June 2020 (calculation assumes share 

price depreciation of $1.11 DSTIA and $0.25 LTIA)

6   The amount relates to the salary and STIA attributable to the Chief Financial Officer & Group Executive Strategy role 

REMUNERATION REPORT 

29

Directors’ Report (continued)
REMUNERATION REPORT

6.  Short Term Incentive Award 

What is the STIA and who participates? 
The STIA is ‘at risk’ remuneration subject to the 
achievement of pre-defined Company, Business 
Unit and individual performance measures 
which are set annually by the Board at the 
beginning of the performance period. 

For each component of the STIA, three 
performance levels are set:

 › Threshold, below which no STIA is paid for 

that component

 › Target, which typically aligns to relevant 
corporate plans and budgets, a business 
improvement targeted outcome or reflects 
an improvement on historical achievement

 › Stretch, outcomes which are materially 

better than Target

The STIA applies in a similar manner to 
all non-enterprise agreement employees. 
For the MD & CEO, Executive KMP and the 
remaining Executive Committee (direct reports 
to the MD & CEO) a portion (40%) will be 
deferred into equity for a period of 12 months, 
which is subject to claw-back for financial 
misstatements and misconduct.

What are the Company performance 
measures?
The performance measures which apply to 
all participants are Underlying EBIT, Safety 
and Individual. 

From FY2019, Business Unit measures were 
included in the scorecard for Bulk and Coal. 
Following the Final Decision on the UT5 
outcome, from FY2020, Network also has 
a Business Unit measure. 

Each measure has a defined level of 
performance. The measures drive a continuous 
safety improvement culture, strengthen and 
grow our current business while continuing 
to transform the Enterprise. 

STIA outcomes are determined by calculating 
the performance outcome against the 
relevant weighted performance measure. 
Figure 5 provides an example of an at Target 
performance outcome.

This is achieved through a focus on people 
and asset efficiencies while at the same time, 
delivering benefits to shareholders'. 

Individual performance measures relate to 
each specific role and measure an individual’s 
contribution against a range of operational 
and strategic performance measures (including 
additional safety measures). At the start of 
the performance year the Board determines 
the MD & CEO individual strategic measures. 
Relevant measures are cascaded to the 
Executive Committee and throughout the 
Company as reflected in Figure 4.

What is the amount that participants 
can earn through an STIA?
The employment agreements specify a 
target STIA, expressed as a percentage of 
Fixed Remuneration (100% for the MD & CEO 
and 75% for the remaining Executive KMP). 
Each participant can earn between 0% up to 
a maximum of 150% of this target percentage, 
depending on performance and subject to 
Board discretion. Depending on performance 
assessed at year end, participants may earn for 
each enterprise measure: 0% for performance 
below Threshold, 50% at Threshold (for 
measures other than Underlying EBIT, for 
which Threshold earnings are 30%) with a 
linear scale up to 100% at Target performance; 
and a further linear scale to 200% at 
Stretch performance.

What are the outcomes for FY2020?
Table 6 identifies the performance measures, 
relevant weightings and outcomes for FY2020. 
The FY2020 actual outcomes for Executive 
KMP are identified within Table 7.

Target performance was achieved for Group 
Underlying EBIT. Outcomes varied across the 
Business Units, with Bulk achieving Stretch 
performance, Network achieving an outcome 
between Threshold and Target while Coal 
performance was below Threshold. 

During the year there was a mixed result across 
the Safety measures with a 10% improvement 
in the Total Recordable Injury Frequency 
Rate (TRIFR) and an 8% deterioration in 
Rail Process Safety. 

Despite the improvement in TRIFR, Executive 
KMP will not be rewarded for any portion of 
the Safety measures.

In December 2019 there was also a tragic death 
of one of our employees, in a work motor 
vehicle accident. Workplace Health and Safety 
Queensland has advised it has considered 
all issues relating to the accident and is not 
investigating the matter any further. The Board 
determined that no adjustment would be made 
to the outcome as a result of the fatality.

FIGURE 4 – STRATEGIC MEASURES CASCADING PROCESS

Managing 
Director  
& Chief  
Executive 
Officer

Executive 
Committee

Direct 
Reports 
to the 
Executive 
Committee

Other  
STIA 
Participants

OPTIMISE

EXCEL

EXTEND

30

FIGURE 5 – STIA PERFORMANCE 
OUTCOME CALCULATION

MD & CEO AND SUPPORT 
FUNCTION PARTICIPANTS

60%

+ 10%

+

30%

=

100%

BUSINESS UNIT PARTICIPANTS

30%

+

10%

+

30%

+

30%

=

100%

Enterprise 
Measures
(EBIT)

Enterprise 
Safety
Measures
(TRIFR, 
RPS)

Business 
Unit 
Measures
(EBIT)

Individual 
Strategic 
Measures
(varied)

STIA 
OUTCOME

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20TABLE 6 – SHORT TERM INCENTIVE AWARD FINANCIAL YEAR 2020 OBJECTIVES1 

PERFORMANCE MEASURE

ENTERPRISE

Group EBIT1: Underlying EBIT delivers financial benefit to shareholder through the 
achievement of underlying operating earnings 

Group Safety: The measures drive a commitment to delivering a continuous 
safety improvement culture across all of the Company measured through equally 
weighted parameters which include:
 › Total Reportable Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR)
 › Rail Process Safety (Total Accident Rate and Signals Passed at Danger) (RPS)

BUSINESS UNIT1

Coal EBIT:

Bulk EBIT:

Network EBIT:

INDIVIDUAL: At the start of the performance year the Board determines the 
MD & CEO individual strategic measures. These individual measures are based 
on the Aurizon strategy of continuing to optimise, excel and extend the business. 
Relevant measures are subsequently cascaded to the Executive Committee and 
throughout the organisation. During FY2020 some of the key strategic measures 
for the MD & CEO and across the organisation were:
 › Deliver key operational efficiency  

improvement programs (including Project  
Precision and Network Optimisation Program)

 › Advancement of key technology programs

TOTAL OUTCOME

 › Safety and performance culture 
 › Climate change response
 › Position business for growth

WEIGHTING 

MD & CEO 
& CFO

COAL, 
BULK & 
NETWORK

TARGET

FY2020 PERFORMANCE 
OUTCOME

60%

30%

$906m

$906m

5%

5%

5%

5%

–

30%

7.96

3.79

$431m

$59m

$473m

9.92

4.74

$411m

$90m

$469m

30%

30% Individual performance 
targets vary for each 
specific role

Personal outcomes 
for MD & CEO and 
Executive KMP varied 
between above Target 
and Stretch depending 
on performance against 
individual KPIs

100%

100%

Bulk 
MD & CEO, CFO, Coal & Network

1  Company performance hurdles relate to continuing operations and excludes the Rail Grinding business which was sold in October 2019

 Stretch   Between Target & Stretch   Target   Between Threshold & Target   Threshold   Below Threshold

TABLE 7 – SHORT TERM INCENTIVE AWARDED IN FINANCIAL YEAR 2020 

NAME

EXECUTIVE KMP

A Harding

P Bains

G Lippiatt3,4

C McDonald

E McKeiver

TARGET STIA  
$’000

MAXIMUM 
POTENTIAL 
STIA $’000

CASH 
COMPONENT

DEFERRED 
SHARE 
COMPONENT1

TOTAL STIA 
PAYMENT

% OF 
TARGET 
STIA

% OF 
MAXIMUM 
STIA2

AWARDED FY2020 $’000

1,717

591

64

500

512

2,576

887

97

750

768

981

328

61

394

200

654

218

–

263

134

1,635

546

61

657

334

95

92

95

131

65

63

62

63

88

43

1  A portion (40%) awarded in the form of rights to shares, which vest on the first anniversary of payment of the cash component subject to Board’s ability to ‘claw-back’
2  Executives have forfeited between 12% and 57% of their maximum potential outcomes
3  G Lippiatt was not remunerated as an Executive KMP for FY2020 therefore his STIA will be awarded entirely as cash 
4  The amount relates to the STIA made while acting as Chief Financial Officer & Group Executive Strategy from March 2020

REMUNERATION REPORT 

31

Directors’ Report (continued)
REMUNERATION REPORT

7.  Long Term Incentive Award

What is the LTIA and who participates? 
The LTIA is the component of Total Potential 
Remuneration linked to providing long-term 
incentives for selected Executives whom the 
Board has identified as being able to contribute 
directly to the generation of long-term 
shareholder returns. This includes the MD & 
CEO, Executive KMP, the remaining Executive 
Committee (direct reports to the MD & CEO) 
and a number of other management employees.

What is the amount that Executives can 
earn through an LTIA?
The maximum potential remuneration (expressed 
as a percentage of Fixed Remuneration) available 
through the LTIA is 120% in the case of the MD 
& CEO (increasing to 150% from FY2021) and 
112.5% for the remaining Executive KMP. 

What is the performance period?
From the 2017 Award, Company hurdles are 
measured over an extended performance period, 
which increased from a three to a four-year 
performance period. Retesting does not form 
part of any awards.

Each performance right is a right to receive 
one share in Aurizon upon vesting. The number 
of performance rights that vest is determined 
by performance outcomes compared against 
predetermined company hurdles as described 
in Table 8 and Table 9.

What are the performance hurdles?
The LTIA has two performance hurdles – 
Relative Total Shareholder Return and Average 
Return on Invested Capital.

How is the LTIA determined?
The number of performance rights issued 
under the LTIA to each Executive is calculated 
by dividing their respective LTIA potential 
remuneration (expressed as a percentage of 
Fixed Remuneration) by the five-day Volume 
Weighted Average Price (VWAP) of Aurizon 
shares at the time of their award.

What happens when performance 
rights vest?
Performance rights awarded under the LTIA 
vest subject to the satisfaction of company 
hurdles. Rights vest and the resulting shares are 
transferred to the Executive at no cost to the 
Executive. Value of the award will be subject 
to movements in the Aurizon share price over 
the performance period, aligning Executive 
outcomes and shareholder experience. 

Company performance and vesting outcomes 
for the 2017 LTIA (3 year) is identified in Table 8. 
Partial vesting of the LTIA has occured which is 
aligned with the shareholder experience over the 
performance period.

TABLE 8 – COMPANY PERFORMANCE AGAINST LONG TERM INCENTIVE AWARDS SUBJECT TO TESTING IN FINANCIAL YEAR 2020 

COMPANY HURDLE AND PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT PERIOD

WEIGHTING

RESULT

%  
VESTED

% 
LAPSED

2017 AWARD (3 YEAR): 01 JULY 2017 – 30 JUNE 20201

Relative TSR: against peer 
group within ASX100 Index

30% of rights vest at the 50th percentile, 75% at the 
62.5th percentile up to 100% at the 75th percentile

ROIC: average annual ROIC 
FY2018 – FY20202

50% of rights vest with an average ROIC of 10.5%, up 
to 100% at 11.5%

TOTAL WEIGHTED OUTCOME

50%

Above Median 

32.9%

67.1%

50%

100%

9.5%

0%

100%

16.5%

83.5%

1   From the 2017 Award, company hurdles are measured over an extended performance period, which increased from a three-year performance period to a four-year 

performance period. In order to facilitate this transition two awards were issued at 75% of the maximum vesting opportunity in FY2018

2   Following the expected Network regulatory outcomes, the Board has determined that no adjustment will be made to the hurdles for 2017 and 2018 Awards

 Maximum   Between Minimum and Maximum   Minimum   Below Minimum 

32

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20TABLE 9 – LONG TERM INCENTIVE AWARD PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW AND HURDLES FOR FUTURE AWARDS

DEFINITION

RELATIVE TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN (WEIGHTING 50%)

Measures the growth in share price plus cash distributions notionally 
reinvested in shares and is:
 › Conditional on Aurizon’s TSR performance relative to a peer group of 
companies in the ASX 100 index (approximately 70) that are broadly 
comparable to Aurizon (ie with which Aurizon competes for capital  
and/or capability)

 › Financial, healthcare, biotechnology, casinos and gaming companies 

are excluded from the peer group

 › Determined by reference to a VWAP over a period to smooth any 

short-term ‘peaks’ or ‘troughs’
 › Verified by an independent expert

RETURN ON INVESTED CAPITAL (WEIGHTING 50%)

For the purposes of LTIA, ROIC is underlying EBIT divided by Invested 
Capital and will be calculated on the same basis as published ROIC, with 
the following exceptions:
 › Adjusted, for Invested Capital, to exclude major (infrastructure 

investments with an approved budget capital expenditure over $250m) 
assets under construction until these investments are planned to 
generate income, subject to Board discretion (for example, in the case 
of a delay judged to be outside the control of management and not able 
to be foreseen or mitigated)

 › Adjusted (add-back depreciation charge and invested capital) to 

reflect asset impairments which occur during the performance period, 
excluding asset impairments driven by continued efficiency and 
productivity improvements

VESTING THESHOLDS

Vesting Thresholds are consistent across all outstanding Awards

MINIMUM VESTING

MAXIMUM VESTING

30% of rights vest at 
the 50th percentile

75% of rights vest at 
the 62.5th percentile

100% of rights vest at 
the 75th percentile

All rights will vest pro-rata on a straight-line basis between the minimum 
and maximum vesting points

Vesting Thresholds vary across outstanding Awards

MINIMUM VESTING

MAXIMUM VESTING

50% of Rights vest 
with an average 
ROIC of:

100% of Rights vest 
with an average 
ROIC of:

2017 Award (4 year)1

10.5%

2018 Award1

2019 Award2,3

2020 Award2,3

9%

9.5%

9.5%

11.5%

10%

10.5%

10.5%

All rights will vest pro-rata on a straight-line basis between the minimum 
and maximum vesting points

1   Following the expected Network regulatory outcomes, the Board has determined that no adjustment will be made to the hurdles for 2017 Award and 2018 Awards
2   With the introduction of the new lease accounting standard effective from 1 July 2019 which has the effect of bringing leases on balance sheet, we have completed 
a review of our current ROIC calculation and simplified the definition of invested capital which will be applied from the 2019 Award. This definition change has no 
material impact on the ROIC

3   ROIC hurdles have been set taking into account the current business outlook and the expected Network regulatory outcomes

How does Aurizon utilise Retention awards? 
In some circumstances, as approved by the Board, Management may recommend using retention awards where the services of an individual are 
considered critical to Aurizon over the short-to-medium term and the existing remuneration arrangements are thought to be insufficient to retain 
those services. Retention awards may be time-based or project-based and are governed by stringent performance conditions and may be cash-based 
or equity-based. In FY2018, an award was issued to an Executive who has subsequently been appointed to the Executive Committee (CFO & GE 
Strategy). During FY2020, no retention awards were issued to Executive KMP but a number were issued to other employees. Further information is 
available in note 31 of the Financial Report (page 94). 

REMUNERATION REPORT 

33

Directors’ Report (continued)
REMUNERATION REPORT

8.  Executive Employment Agreements

Executive Employment Agreements 
Remuneration and other terms of employment 
for the MD & CEO and Executive KMP are 
formalised in an Employment Agreement as 
summarised in Table 10.

Minimum Shareholding policy 
for Executives
To align KMP and the Executive Committee 
(direct reports to the MD & CEO) with 
shareholders, the Company requires:

 ›  Non-Executive Directors to accumulate and 
maintain one year’s Total Directors’ fees 
(consisting of Directors’ fee plus applicable 
Committee fee/s) of shares in the Company
 › the MD & CEO to accumulate and maintain 
one year’s Fixed Remuneration of shares in 
the Company

 › the remaining Executive KMP and Executive 
Committee to accumulate and maintain 50% 
of one year’s Fixed Remuneration of shares 
in the Company

This is to be achieved within six years of 
the date of their appointment. This will be 
calculated with reference to the Total Directors’ 
fees and Executives’ Fixed Remuneration 
during the period divided by the number 
of years.

Details of KMP shareholdings as at 30 June 
2020 are set out in Table 11.

Hedging and margin lending policies
Aurizon has in place a policy that prohibits 
Executives from hedging economic exposure to 
unvested rights that have been issued pursuant 
to a Company employee share plan. The policy 
also prohibits margin loan arrangements for 
the purpose of purchasing Aurizon shares. 
Adherence to this policy is monitored regularly 
and involves each Executive signing an annual 
declaration of compliance with the policy.

TABLE 10 – EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS 

NAME

EXECUTIVE KMP

A Harding

P Bains

G Lippiatt

C McDonald

E McKeiver

DURATION OF  
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

FIXED REMUNERATION AT 
END OF FINANICAL YEAR 
20201

NOTICE PERIOD2

BY EXECUTIVE

BY COMPANY3

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

1,717,000

788,000

700,000

667,000

683,000

6 months

3 months

3 months

3 months

3 months

12 months

6 months

6 months

6 months

6 months

1  Fixed remuneration includes a superannuation component
2  Post employment restraints in any competitor business in Australia is aligned to the notice period
3  Any termination payment will be subject to compliance with the Corporations Act and will not exceed 12 months

TABLE 11 – KMP SHAREHOLDINGS AS AT 30 JUNE 2020 

NAME

NON–EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

BALANCE  
AT THE START  
OF THE YEAR

RECEIVED  
DURING THE YEAR  
ON VESTING

OTHER  
CHANGES DURING  
THE YEAR

BALANCE  
AT THE END  
OF THE YEAR

% OF FIXED 
REMUNERATION1

T Poole

M Bastos

R Caplan2

M Fraser

S Lewis

S Ryan

L Strambi

K Vidgen

EXECUTIVE KMP

A Harding

P Bains

G Lippiatt

C McDonald

E McKeiver

90,500

11,400

82,132

70,000

33,025

–

–

40,000

82,9473

68,627

9,435

110,968

56,929

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

199,050

61,663

–

54,442

55,677

20,000

14,547

–

–

10,000

13,000

5,355

–

35,000

(78,921)

2,500

(71,000)

(55,677)

110,500

25,947

82,132

70,000

43,025

13,000

5,355

40,000

316,997

51,369

11,935

94,410

56,929

111%

57%

195%

151%

93%

31%

13%

87%

91%

32%

8%

70%

41%

1  Assumes Total Directors’ Fees and Fixed Remuneration as at 30 June 2020 and the calculation assumes a share price of $4.92
2  KMP required to meet the minimum shareholding requirement due to length of service in a KMP role being longer than six years
3  Restated from FY2019

34

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–209.   Non‑Executive Director 

Remuneration

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 Aurizon.

Remuneration for Non-Executive Directors 
is reviewed by the Committee and set by 
the Board, taking into account external 
benchmarking. Fees and payments to 
Non-Executive Directors are reviewed 
annually by the Board and reflect the 
demands which are made on, and the 
responsibilities of, the Directors.

The Chairman’s fees are determined 
independently to the fees of Non-Executive 
Directors, based on comparative roles in 
the external market. The Chairman does 
not participate in any discussions relating 
to the determination of his own remuneration.

Fee Structure
The current annual base fees for the Non-
Executive Directors are set out in Table 12. 

The Chairman’s fee is inclusive of fees for 
Committee memberships. 

In addition, to base Directors’ fee, 
Non-Executive Directors are also eligible 
to receive Committee chairperson and/
or member fees. These Committee fees  
are set out in Table 13.

The base Directors’ fee and Committees' 
fees include both cash and any statutory 
superannuation contributions. There are no 
other retirement benefits in place for Non-
Executive Directors. Non-Executive Directors 
do not receive performance pay. 

The actual remuneration outcomes for the 
Non-Executive Directors of the Company 
is summarised in Table 14. Details of the 
Non-Executive Director membership is 
disclosed on page 9.

What are the aggregate fees approved by shareholders? 
$2.5 million. The cap does not include remuneration for performing additional or special duties for 
Aurizon at the request of the Board or reasonable travelling, accommodation and other expenses 
of Directors in attending meetings and carrying out their duties.

TABLE 12 – DIRECTORS’ FEES

DIRECTORS

Chairman 

TERM

Directors’ fees (inclusive of all responsibilities 
and superannuation contributions)

Other Non-Executive Directors Directors’ fees (inclusive of all 
superannuation contributions)

$490,000

$170,000

TABLE 13 – COMMITTEE FEES

NETWORK 
BOARD

AUDIT AND RISK 
COMMITTEE

$40,000

$20,000

$40,000

$20,000

REMUNERATION 
AND HUMAN 
RESOURCES 
COMMITTEE

SAFETY, 
HEALTH AND 
ENVIRONMENT 
COMMITTEE

$35,000

$17,500

$35,000

$17,500

Chairperson

Member

TABLE 14 – NON‑EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION 

SHORT‑TERM 
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

POST‑EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFITS

SALARY 
AND 
FEES1 
$’000

NON‑
MONETARY 
BENEFITS2 
$’000

SUPERANNUATION  
$’000

TOTAL 
REMUNERATION 
$’000

NAME

YEAR

NON‑EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS3

T Poole

M Bastos

R Caplan

M Fraser

S Lewis

S Ryan

L Strambi

K Vidgen

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2020

2020

2019

479

469

205

194

200

197

208

199

208

199

115

102

203

185

FORMER NON‑EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

J Cooper

K Field

Total

2019

2019

2020

2019

183

61

1,720

1,687

3

3

–

–

–

–

–

–

3

3

–

–

–

–

–

–

6

6

11

21

20

18

9

19

20

19

20

19

1

10

19

18

17

6

110

137

493

493

225

212

209

216

228

218

231

221

116

112

222

203

200

67

1,836

1,830

1   Salary and fees include any salary sacrificed benefits
2   Non-monetary benefits represent the value of Reportable Fringe Benefits for the respective FBT year ending 

31 March 2020

3   Details assosiated with Non-Executive Director fee changes are described in Section 9 of the FY2018 and 

FY2019 Remuneration Reports

REMUNERATION REPORT 

35

Directors’ Report (continued)
REMUNERATION REPORT

10. Executive Remuneration for Financial Year 2020
The table below details the number and value of movements in equity awards during FY2020.

TABLE 15 – RIGHTS GRANTED AS COMPENSATION 

INCENTIVE  
PLAN

BALANCE AT 
BEGINNING 
OF YEAR

 RIGHTS 
AWARDED 
DURING THE 
YEAR1 

VALUE OF 
RIGHTS 
GRANTED IN 
YEAR

VESTED IN 
YEAR

EXERCISED 
DURING THE 
YEAR 

FORFEITED IN 
YEAR

FORFEITED IN 
YEAR

NO.

 NO. 

$’000

%

NO.

NO.

%

VALUE OF RIGHTS  

BALANCE AT END 

VALUE PER RIGHT 

FORFEITED IN YEAR

OF YEAR

AT GRANT DATE

GRANT  

DATE 

DATE ON WHICH 

GRANT VESTS2

EXPIRY  

DATE

WEIGHTED FAIR 

NAME

EXECUTIVE KMP
A Harding

P Bains

G Lippiatt

C McDonald

E McKeiver

20163
2017 (3 year)4
2017 (4 year)
2018 STIAD5
2018
2019 STIAD6
2019
20153
20163
2017 (3 year)4
2017 (4 year)
2018 STIAD5
2018
2019 STIAD6
2019
20153
20163
2017 (3 year)
2017 (4 year)
2018 – Ret7
2018
2019
20153
20163
2017 (3 year)
2017 (4 year)
2018 STIAD5
2018
2019 STIAD6
2019
20153
20163
2017 (3 year)4
2017 (4 year)
2018 STIAD5
2018
2019 STIAD6
2019

FORMER EXECUTIVE KMP
M Riches

2017 (3 year)4
2017 (4 year)
2018 STIAD5
2018
2019 STIAD6
2019

463,636
295,938
295,938
199,050
459,911
–
–
46,066
60,776
114,241
114,241
61,663
188,337
–
–
40,307
47,845
37,573
37,573
44,843
62,500
–
51,824
60,776
97,921
97,921
54,442
152,176
–
–
55,279
64,656
104,449
104,449
55,677
165,737
–
–

110,161
110,161
53,682
174,526
–
–

170,846
347,454

1,030
1,371

55,970
149,494

338
590

48,799

193

45,224
126,539

273
499

45,970
129,574

51,866
136,404

277
511

313
538

100%

(199,050)

100%

(61,663)

100%

(54,442)

100%

(55,677)

100%

(53,682)

(463,636)

100%

(46,066)
(60,776)

100%
100%

(40,307)
(47,845)

100%
100%

(51,824)
(60,776)

100%
100%

(55,279)
(64,656)

100%
100%

(110,161)
(110,161)

(174,526)
(51,866)
(136,404)

100%
100%

100%
100%
100%

$’000

1,616

184

210

161

165

207

210

221

223

350

339

446

313

538

NO.

295,938

295,938

459,911

170,846

347,454

114,241

114,241

188,337

55,970

149,494

37,573

37,573

44,843

62,500

48,799

97,921

97,921

152,176

45,224

126,539

104,449

104,449

165,737

45,970

129,574

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

$

3.49

3.09

2.99

4.21

2.58

6.03

3.95

4.00

3.45

3.18

3.07

4.21

2.56

6.03

3.95

4.00

3.45

3.18

3.07

4.46

2.56

3.95

4.00

3.45

3.18

3.07

4.21

2.56

6.03

3.95

4.00

3.45

3.18

3.07

4.21

2.56

6.03

3.95

3.18

3.07

4.21

2.56

6.03

3.95

18-Oct-17

18-Oct-17

18-Oct-17

17-Sept-18

18-Oct-18

30-Sept-19

17-Oct-19

17-Aug-15

7-Oct-16  

6-Oct-17

6-Oct 17

17-Sept-18

5-Oct-18

30-Sept-19

17-Oct-19

17-Aug-15

7-Oct-16  

6-Oct-17

6-Oct 17

10-Aug-18

5-Oct-18

17-Oct-19

17-Aug-15

7-Oct-17

6-Oct-17

6-Oct 17

17-Sept-18

5-Oct-18

30-Sept-19

17-Oct-19

17-Aug-15

7-Oct-16

6-Oct-17

6-Oct 17

17-Sept-18

5-Oct-18

30-Sept-19

17-Oct-19

6-Oct-17

6-Oct 17

17-Sept-18

5-Oct-18

30-Sept-19

17-Oct-19

7-Sept-19

18-Oct-20

18-Oct-21

17-Sept-19

18-Oct-22

30-Sept-20

17-Oct-23

17-Aug-18

7-Oct-19

6-Oct-20

6-Oct 21

17-Sept-19

5-Oct-22

30-Sept-20

17-Oct-23

17-Aug-18

7-Oct-19

6-Oct-20

6-Oct 21

13-Aug-20

5-Oct-22

17-Oct-23

17-Aug-18

7-Oct-20

6-Oct-20

6-Oct 21

17-Sept-19

5-Oct-22

30-Sept-20

17-Oct-23

17-Aug-18

7-Oct-19

6-Oct-20

6-Oct 21

17-Sept-19

5-Oct-22

30-Sept-20

17-Oct-23

6-Oct-20

6-Oct 21

17-Sept-19

5-Oct-22

30-Sept-20

17-Oct-23

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-21

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-22

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-23

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-21

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-22

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-23

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-21

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-22

31-Dec-23

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-21

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-22

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-23

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-21

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-22

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-23

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-21

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-22

31-Dec-20

31-Dec-23

1   The number of performance rights awarded, as described in Section 7, is a function of the market price (5-day VWAP) at the time of the award, that is, ‘face value’.  

For remuneration purposes, Aurizon does not use fair value to determine LTI Awards

2  Date on which the grant vests will be adjusted for awards eligible for retest. Retesting has been removed from the 2016 Award onwards
3  Details of the vesting outcomes are described in Table 7 in the FY2019 Remuneration Report

3636

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–2010. Executive Remuneration for Financial Year 2020

The table below details the number and value of movements in equity awards during FY2020.

TABLE 15 – RIGHTS GRANTED AS COMPENSATION 

NAME

INCENTIVE  

PLAN

EXECUTIVE KMP

A Harding

BALANCE AT 

BEGINNING 

OF YEAR

NO.

 RIGHTS 

AWARDED 

VALUE OF 

RIGHTS 

EXERCISED 

DURING THE 

GRANTED IN 

VESTED IN 

DURING THE 

FORFEITED IN 

FORFEITED IN 

YEAR1 

 NO. 

YEAR

$’000

YEAR

%

YEAR 

NO.

YEAR

NO.

YEAR

%

P Bains

G Lippiatt

C McDonald

E McKeiver

20163

2017 (3 year)4

2017 (4 year)

2018 STIAD5

2019 STIAD6

2017 (3 year)4

2017 (4 year)

2018 STIAD5

2019 STIAD6

2018

2019

20153

20163

2018

2019

20153

20163

2018

2019

20153

20163

2017 (3 year)

2017 (4 year)

2018 – Ret7

2017 (3 year)

2017 (4 year)

2018 STIAD5

2019 STIAD6

2018

2019

20153

20163

2017 (3 year)4

2017 (4 year)

2018 STIAD5

2019 STIAD6

2018

2019

2017 (3 year)4

2017 (4 year)

2018 STIAD5

2019 STIAD6

2018

2019

463,636

295,938

295,938

199,050

459,911

46,066

60,776

114,241

114,241

61,663

188,337

40,307

47,845

37,573

37,573

44,843

62,500

–

51,824

60,776

97,921

97,921

54,442

152,176

55,279

64,656

104,449

104,449

55,677

165,737

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

110,161

110,161

53,682

174,526

–

–

170,846

347,454

1,030

1,371

55,970

149,494

338

590

48,799

193

45,224

126,539

273

499

45,970

129,574

51,866

136,404

277

511

313

538

100%

(199,050)

100%

(61,663)

100%

(54,442)

100%

(55,677)

100%

(53,682)

(463,636)

100%

(46,066)

(60,776)

100%

100%

(40,307)

(47,845)

100%

100%

(51,824)

(60,776)

100%

100%

(55,279)

(64,656)

100%

100%

(110,161)

(110,161)

(174,526)

(51,866)

(136,404)

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

FORMER EXECUTIVE KMP

M Riches

VALUE OF RIGHTS  
FORFEITED IN YEAR

BALANCE AT END 
OF YEAR

WEIGHTED FAIR 
VALUE PER RIGHT 
AT GRANT DATE

GRANT  
DATE 

DATE ON WHICH 
GRANT VESTS2

EXPIRY  
DATE

$’000

1,616

184
210

161
165

207
210

221
223

350
339

446
313
538

NO.

–
295,938
295,938
–
459,911
170,846
347,454
–
–
114,241
114,241
–
188,337
55,970
149,494
–
–
37,573
37,573
44,843
62,500
48,799
–
–
97,921
97,921
–
152,176
45,224
126,539
–
–
104,449
104,449
–
165,737
45,970
129,574

–
–
–
–
–
–

$

3.49
3.09
2.99
4.21
2.58
6.03
3.95
4.00
3.45
3.18
3.07
4.21
2.56
6.03
3.95
4.00
3.45
3.18
3.07
4.46
2.56
3.95
4.00
3.45
3.18
3.07
4.21
2.56
6.03
3.95
4.00
3.45
3.18
3.07
4.21
2.56
6.03
3.95

3.18
3.07
4.21
2.56
6.03
3.95

18-Oct-17
18-Oct-17
18-Oct-17
17-Sept-18
18-Oct-18
30-Sept-19
17-Oct-19
17-Aug-15

7-Oct-16  
6-Oct-17
6-Oct 17
17-Sept-18
5-Oct-18
30-Sept-19
17-Oct-19
17-Aug-15

7-Oct-16  
6-Oct-17
6-Oct 17
10-Aug-18
5-Oct-18
17-Oct-19
17-Aug-15
7-Oct-17
6-Oct-17
6-Oct 17
17-Sept-18
5-Oct-18
30-Sept-19
17-Oct-19
17-Aug-15
7-Oct-16
6-Oct-17
6-Oct 17
17-Sept-18
5-Oct-18
30-Sept-19
17-Oct-19

6-Oct-17
6-Oct 17
17-Sept-18
5-Oct-18
30-Sept-19
17-Oct-19

7-Sept-19
18-Oct-20
18-Oct-21
17-Sept-19
18-Oct-22
30-Sept-20
17-Oct-23
17-Aug-18
7-Oct-19
6-Oct-20
6-Oct 21
17-Sept-19
5-Oct-22
30-Sept-20
17-Oct-23
17-Aug-18
7-Oct-19
6-Oct-20
6-Oct 21
13-Aug-20
5-Oct-22
17-Oct-23
17-Aug-18
7-Oct-20
6-Oct-20
6-Oct 21
17-Sept-19
5-Oct-22
30-Sept-20
17-Oct-23
17-Aug-18
7-Oct-19
6-Oct-20
6-Oct 21
17-Sept-19
5-Oct-22
30-Sept-20
17-Oct-23

6-Oct-20
6-Oct 21
17-Sept-19
5-Oct-22
30-Sept-20
17-Oct-23

31-Dec-19
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-21
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-22
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-23
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-21
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-22
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-23
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-21
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-22
31-Dec-23
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-21
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-22
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-23
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-21
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-22
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-23

31-Dec-20
31-Dec-21
31-Dec-19
31-Dec-22
31-Dec-20
31-Dec-23

1   The number of performance rights awarded, as described in Section 7, is a function of the market price (5-day VWAP) at the time of the award, that is, ‘face value’.  

For remuneration purposes, Aurizon does not use fair value to determine LTI Awards

2  Date on which the grant vests will be adjusted for awards eligible for retest. Retesting has been removed from the 2016 Award onwards

3  Details of the vesting outcomes are described in Table 7 in the FY2019 Remuneration Report

4  Details of the vesting outcomes are described in Table 8
5  Deferred STIA component as described in Section 3 and Section 5 of this report and Table 5 in the FY2018 Remuneration Report
6  Deferred STIA component as described in Section 3 and Section 5 of this report and Table 6 in the FY2019 Remuneration Report
7  Retention Award as described in Section 7 in the FY2018 Remuneration Report 

REMUNERATION REPORT 

37

Directors’ Report (continued)
REMUNERATION REPORT

Details of the remuneration paid to Executives are set out below and has been prepared in accordance with the accounting standards.

TABLE 16 – EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION 

NAME

EXECUTIVE KMP

A Harding

P Bains7

G Lippiatt8

C McDonald

E McKeiver

FORMER EXECUTIVE KMP

M Riches9

Total Executive KMP 
compensation (group) 

CASH 
SALARY 
AND FEES1 
$’000

A

1,696

1,696

764

674

122

646

585

662

639

323

672

4,213

4,266

YEAR

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

SHORT‑TERM EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

POST‑ 
EMPLOYMENT 
BENEFITS

LONG‑
TERM 
BENEFITS

EQUITY‑ 
SETTLED 
SHARE‑BASED 
PAYMENTS

CASH 
BONUS 
$’000

ANNUAL 
LEAVE2 
$’000

NON‑ 
MONETARY 
BENEFITS3 
$’000

OTHER 
$’000

SUPER‑ 
ANNUATION4 
$’000

LONG‑ 
SERVICE 
LEAVE 
$’000

RIGHTS5 
$’000

TOTAL 
$’000

PROPORTION OF  
COMPENSATION 
PERFORMANCE  
RELATED6 %

REMUNERATION 
CONSISTING  
OF RIGHTS FOR  
THE YEAR %

B

981

1,545

328

506

61

394

409

200

416

–

469

1,964

3,345

C

51

34

22

15

(6)

34

23

(2)

(18)

14

23

113

77

D

–

–

5

3

–

29

52

3

57

1

–

38

112

E

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

386

–

386

–

F

21

21

24

76

7

21

21

21

21

10

21

104

160

G

32

36

46

34

28

24

(51)

(23)

23

12

5

119

47

H

1,560

814

543

297

32

461

178

477

153

I

4,341

4,146

1,732

1,605

244

1,609

1,217

1,338

1,291

(411)

490

335

1,680

2,662

9,599

1,932

9,939

J

59

57

50

50

38

53

48

51

44

–

57

48

53

K

36

20

31

19

13

29

15

36

12

–

29

28

19

1 

2 

 Cash salary and fees include any salary sacrifice benefits

 Annual leave represents annual leave accrued or utilised during the financial year and excludes periods of unpaid annual leave. Negative amounts represent the 
utilisation of annual leave

3   Non-monetary benefits includes travel benefits and relocation assistance

4   Superannuation amounts represent employers’ contribution to superannuation

5   The accounting expense recognised in relation to 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. Refer to note 31 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. This includes the cost of deferred short-term, long-term and retention

6   The short-term incentives (cash bonus), deferred short-term incentives and long-term incentives (equity settled share-based payments) represent the at-risk 

performance related remuneration

7 

 P Bains was appointed Group Executive Network on 9 March 2020 prior to this held the role of Chief Financial Officer & Group Executive Strategy 

8   G Lippiatt was appointed Chief Financial Officer & Group Executive Strategy on 9 March 2020 in an acting capacity, and permanently on 30 June 2020. The cash salary 

and fees (column A) and cash bonus (column B) reflect the salary and STIA attributable to the Chief Financial Officer & Group Executive Strategy role

9   M Riches ceased in the role on 17 December 2019. Other (column E) represents contractual benefits received until 30 June 2020. He did not receive any remuneration 

associated with the FY2020 STIA. The Rights value reflects the forfeiture of awards upon termination

38

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Auditors Independence Declaration 
As lead auditor for the audit of Aurizon Holdings Limited for the year ended 30 June 2020, 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 Aurizon Holdings Limited and the entities it controlled during the 
period. 

Nadia Carlin 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Brisbane 
10 August 2020 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
480 Queen 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. 

AUDITORS’ INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION

39

  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
                                    
                         
 
 
Corporate Governance Statement

Aurizon Holdings Limited and the entities 
it controls (Aurizon Holdings or Company) 
believe corporate governance is a critical 
pillar on which business objectives and, 
in turn, shareholder value must be built.

The Board has adopted a suite of charters 
and key corporate governance documents 
which articulate the policies and procedures 
followed by Aurizon Holdings.

These documents are available in the 
Governance section of the Company’s website 
aurizon.com.au. These documents are reviewed 
regularly to address any changes in governance 
practices and the law.

This Statement explains how Aurizon 
Holdings complies and is an early adopter 
of the ASX Corporate Governance Council’s 
Corporate Governance Principles and 
Recommendations – 4th Edition (ASX 
Principles and Recommendations), and 
all the practices outlined in this Statement 
unless otherwise stated, have been in place 
for the full reporting period. 

This Statement was adopted by the Board 
on 7 August 2020.

Principle 1: Lay solid foundations for management and oversight

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

1.1 Role of Board and 
management which 
is set out in a Board 
Charter

The Board has established a clear distinction between the functions and responsibilities reserved for the Board 
and those delegated to management, which are set out in the Aurizon Holdings Board Charter (Charter).

The Charter also provides an overview of the roles of the Chairman, individual Directors, the Managing Director 
& CEO and the Company Secretary.

1.2 Information 
regarding election 
and re‑election of 
Director candidates 
and appropriate checks 
are undertaken on 
Director and senior 
executive appointments

1.3 Written agreements 
setting out terms of 
appointment

1.4 Company Secretary

A copy of the Charter is available in the Governance section of the Company’s website aurizon.com.au.

Aurizon carefully considers the character, experience, education, skill set as well as interests and associations 
of potential candidates for appointment to the Board and conducts appropriate checks to verify the suitability 
of the candidate prior to their appointment.

Aurizon has appropriate procedures in place to ensure material information relevant to a decision to elect or 
re-elect a Director is disclosed in the Notice of Meeting provided to shareholders. Aurizon also conducts checks 
on character, experience, education, criminal records and bankruptcy before appointing a new Director or a senior 
executive (the MD&CEO and his or her direct reports). During the year two Directors were appointed to the Board 
and satisfactory checks were undertaken before those appointments were made.

In addition to being set out in the Charter, 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 
specify the term of appointment, time commitment envisaged, expectations in relation to committee work or any 
other special duties attached to the position, reporting lines, remuneration arrangements, disclosure obligations 
in relation to personal interests, confidentiality obligations, insurance and indemnity entitlements and details of 
the Company’s key governance policies, such as the Securities Dealing Policy.

A copy of the key governance policies can be found on the Company’s website aurizon.com.au.

Each senior executive enters into a service contract which sets out the material terms of employment, including a 
description of position and duties, reporting lines, remuneration arrangements, termination rights and entitlements.

Contract details of senior executives who are Key Management Personnel can be found on page 34 of the 
Annual Report.

The Company Secretary is directly accountable to the Board, through the Chairman, for facilitating and advising 
on the Company’s corporate governance processes and on all matters to do with the proper functioning of the 
Board. Each Director is entitled to access the advice and services of the Company Secretary. The Board Charter 
also sets out the responsibilities of the Company Secretary.

In accordance with the Company’s Constitution and Board Charter, 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 7 of the Annual Report.

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40

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

1.5 Diversity & inclusion

Aurizon Holdings has had a Diversity and Inclusion Policy since 2011 which is reviewed periodically, and which sets 
out its objectives including its stated values and reporting practices with respect to inclusion and diversity and is 
available in the Governance section of the Company’s website aurizon.com.au.

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The measurable objectives and outcomes for diversity, agreed by the Aurizon Holdings Board for FY2020, are set 
out below:

ENTERPRISE MEASURES

FY20 TARGET

FY20 ACTUAL

Gender representation on the Board Minimum 30% (each gender)

33.3% women/66.7% men

Representation of women in senior 
executive roles (direct reports to 
the MD & CEO)

Representation of women in 
the workforce

Representation of Aboriginal and 
Torres Strait Islander men and 
women in Aurizon

30%

22%

5.5%

33.3%

22%

6.1%

Further details on the Company’s inclusion and diversity performance and activities can be found on the Company 
website aurizon.com.au.

1.6 Board reviews

A performance review is undertaken annually in relation to the Board and the Board Committees. Periodically 
the Board engages a professional independent consultant experienced in Board reviews to conduct a review 
of the Board and its Committees, and the effectiveness of the Board as a whole.

In relation to FY20 the Board conducted an internal review of its Board (and its individual Directors)  
and Committees and their effectiveness.

1.7 Management 
reviews

Each year the Board sets financial, operational, management and individual targets for the Managing Director 
& CEO. The Managing Director & CEO (in consultation with the Board) in turn, sets targets for direct reports.

Performance against these targets is assessed periodically throughout the year, and a formal performance 
evaluation for senior executives is completed for the year-end. The Company’s Remuneration & Human Resources 
Committee reviews the remuneration and performance management frameworks during the year. In addition, the 
MD & CEO and each of his direct reports present to the Board on the status, progress made and their performance 
against their set key deliverables.

Principle 2: Structure the Board to be effective and add value 

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

2.1 Nominations 
Committee 

The Nomination & Succession Committee comprises three members (including the Chairman), all of whom are 
Independent Non-Executive Directors. Details of the membership of the Nomination & Succession Committee, 
including the names and qualifications of the Committee members, are set out on pages 4 to 7 of the Annual Report.

2.2 Board skills

The number of meetings held and attended by each member of the Nomination & Succession Committee during 
the financial year are set out on page 9 of the Directors’ Report within the Annual Report.

The Charter governing the conduct of the Nomination & Succession Committee is reviewed annually and is available 
in the Governance section of the Company’s website aurizon.com.au. Aurizon also has in place a policy on election 
and appointment of Non-Executive Directors, which is reviewed annually.

The skills listed below have been identified as the optimum skills Aurizon Holdings seeks to achieve across its Board 
membership. The Aurizon Holdings Board possesses a good blend of these skills. During FY2020 two Directors 
were appointed (Dr Sarah Ryan and Mr. Lyell Strambi). In appointing these two Directors the Board enhanced its 
operational, transformation, major project, technology, regulatory and transport skills and experience. 

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

41

Corporate Governance Statement 
(continued)

Principle 2: Structure the Board to be effective and add value (continued)

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

General
 › Board experience
 › Senior management experience
 › ASX listed company governance
 › Risk management

Industry 
 › Transport and logistics
 › Mining and resources
 › Government relations
 › Safety, health and environment

Technical
 › Finance and accounting
 › Regulatory
 › Corporate strategy
 › Capital allocation including  
acquisitions and divestments

 › Information and operational technology
 › Capital markets
 › Engineering and construction
 › Human resources

2.3 Disclose  
independence and 
length of service

Further details regarding the skills and experience of each Director are included on pages 4 to 7 of the Report.

Details regarding which Directors are considered independent and the length of their service are set out on page 4 
of the Annual Report.

2.4 Majority of 
Directors independent

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

Details regarding which Directors are considered independent and the length of their service are set out on page 4 of 
the Annual Report.

2.5 Chair independent 

The Chairman, Tim Poole, is an Independent Non-Executive Director. The role of CEO is performed by another Director.

2.6 Induction 
and professional 
development

Further details regarding the Directors are set out on pages 4 to 7 of the Annual Report.

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

In addition to peer review, interaction and networking with other Directors and industry leaders, Aurizon Holdings’ 
Directors participate, from time-to-time, in Aurizon Holdings’ leadership forums and actively engage with Aurizon 
Holdings’ employees by visiting operational sites to gain an understanding of the Company’s operating environment.

During the year, Directors receive accounting policy updates, especially around the time the Board considers the 
half-year and full-year financial statements.

The Board also receives briefings from time-to-time on legal, accounting, regulation, developments in 
communication and human resource management and technology.

Directors are encouraged and given the opportunity to broaden their knowledge of the business by visiting offices 
and sites in different locations. During the financial year, Directors made visits to operational sites in Queensland 
and Western Australia.

Principle 3: Instil a culture of acting lawfully, ethically and responsibly 

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

3.1 The values of 
the Company are 
articulated and 
disclosed

3.2 Code of Conduct

3.3 Whistleblower 
Policy

3.4 Anti‑Bribery and 
Corruption Policy

The Company has a clear set of core values. These core values are Safety, People, Integrity, Customer and 
Excellence. A description of these values is set out in the Company’s Code of Conduct and the Company’s Annual 
Report. The Company’s values, their articulation and acknowledgment are embedded in all meetings of the Board, 
Board Committee and the MD & CEO’s Executive meetings and form part of the performance and remuneration 
framework of the Company.

The Board has a Code of Conduct for its Directors, senior executives and employees, a copy of which is available 
in the Governance section of the Company’s website aurizon.com.au. The Company’s Code of Conduct forms part 
of the induction of Directors as well as new employees. The code is reviewed periodically by the Board. The Board 
is informed of any material breaches of the code either through the whistleblower reports or the governance reports 
that are presented from time to time to the Company’s Audit, Governance and Risk Management Committee.

The Company has a Whistleblower Policy, a copy of which is available in the Governance section of the Company’s 
website aurizon.com.au and the Board, through the Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee, reviews 
reports on concerns raised or material breaches under the Whistleblower Policy.

The Company has an Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy a copy of which is available in the Governance section 
of the Company’s website aurizon.com.au and the Board, through the Audit, Governance and Risk Management 
Committee, receives an update annually on any material breaches of this policy through the Governance report 
to the Committee.

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42

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Principle 4: Safeguard the integrity of corporate reports 

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1 Audit Committee 

The Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee comprises four members, all of whom are Independent 
Non-Executive Directors. Details of the membership of the Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee, 
including the names and qualifications of the Committee members, are set out on pages 4 to 7 of the Annual Report.

In addition to the Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee members, the Managing Director & CEO, 
CFO, Head of Risk & Assurance, external auditors and Company Secretary attend the Audit, Governance & Risk 
Management Committee meetings.

The number of meetings held and attended by each member of the Audit, Governance & Risk Management 
Committee during the financial year are set out on page 9 of the Annual Report.

The Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee Charter is reviewed annually and is available on the Aurizon 
Holdings website aurizon.com.au. Among other things, the Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee reviews 
the processes that validate the Directors' Report and the Annual Report. The Board, as a whole, has oversight of other 
corporate reporting, such as investor presentations prepared for full year and half year results briefings.

4.2 CEO and CFO  
certification of 
financial statements

The Board has obtained a written assurance from the Managing Director & CEO and CFO that the declaration 
provided under Section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 (and for the purposes of Recommendation 4.2) is 
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.

4.3 Disclose processes 
to verify the integrity 
of periodic corporate 
reports released to 
the market

The periodic corporate reports, being the half year and full year financial statements including the Company’s 
Annual Report, is underpinned by a certification process whereby each Group Executive and finance partner for 
each business unit responds to set questionnaires and signs a certification. This process provides verification and 
sign off for the MD and CFO then to provide a signed representation letter to the external auditors and also a signed 
declaration to the Board that supports that the accounts provide a true and fair view and that there is integrity 
in the statements that the financial statements comply with the Corporations Act 2001 and relevant Accounting 
standards. The certification process is reviewed annually with the view that it remains current having regard to any 
changes in the Corporations Act 2001, accountings standards or governance. The Company also provides quarterly 
above rail volume reports to the market. These reports are verified by each of the respective business unit Group 
Executives. For other types of periodic corporate reports, including the Company's quarterly above rail volume 
reports, the Company conducts an internal review and verification process to ensure that such reports, are materially 
accurate, balanced and provide investors with appropriate information. Where applicable, the relevant reports will 
be approved in accordance with the Company's Disclosure and Communication Policy.

Principle 5: Make timely and balanced disclosure 

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Disclosure and 
Communications 
Policy

Aurizon Holdings has adopted a Disclosure and Communications Policy which sets out the processes and practices to 
ensure compliance with the continuous disclosure requirements under the ASX Listing Rules and the Corporations Act 2001.

Aurizon Holdings has established guidelines to assist officers and employees of the Company comply with the 
Company’s Disclosure and Communications Policy. A copy of the policy and guidelines are available on the 
Aurizon Holdings’ website aurizon.com.au. 

5.2 Material Market 
Announcements

The Board receives a copy of all announcements under Listing Rule 3.1 immediately prior to those announcements 
being made to the ASX (noting that the Board may not approve or authorise all announcements made to the ASX).

5.3 New and 
substantive investor or 
analyst presentation 
materials to be released 
to the ASX ahead of 
the presentation

Aurizon releases new and substantive presentations to the ASX prior to them being presented. This will typically 
occur at the half year and full year results briefings, and prior to the Annual General Meeting.

Where practicable, Shareholders are provided with the opportunity to participate in such presentations, for example, 
by providing dial-in details.

Principle 6: Respect the rights of security holders 

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Information  
on website 

6.2 Investor relations 
programs

Aurizon Holdings keeps investors informed of its corporate governance, financial performance and prospects via 
announcements to the ASX and Aurizon's website. Investors can access copies of all announcements to the ASX, 
notices of meetings, annual reports, investor presentations, webcasts and/or transcripts of those presentations and 
a key event calendar via the ‘Investors’ tab. Investors can access general information regarding the Company and 
the structure of its business under the ‘Company’, ‘What we deliver’ and ‘Sustainability’ tabs.

Aurizon Holdings conducts regular market briefings including half year and full year results announcements, 
investor days, site visits, and attends regional and industry specific conferences in order to facilitate effective 
two-way communication with investors and other financial markets participants. Access to senior executive and 
operational management is provided to investors and analysts at these events, with separate one-on-one or group 
meetings offered, whenever possible.

The presentation material provided at these events is sent to the ASX prior to commencement and subsequently 
posted on Aurizon Holdings’ Investor Centre website, including the webcast and transcript, if applicable.

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

43

 
 
 
Corporate Governance Statement 
(continued)

Principle 6: Respect the rights of security holders (continued)

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

6.3 Facilitate 
participation at 
meetings of security 
holders

6.4 Resolutions 
decided by Poll

6.5 Option to receive 
communications 
electronically

Aurizon Holdings uses technology to facilitate the participation of security holders in meetings including webcasting 
of the AGM.

Shareholders are encouraged to participate and are given an opportunity to ask questions of the Company and its 
auditor at the AGM. 

All resolutions put to shareholders at the Company’s AGM are determined by Poll.

Aurizon provides shareholders the option to receive communications from, and send communications to, the Company 
and the share registry electronically.

Principle 7: Recognise and manage risk 

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

7.1 Risk Committee 

Aurizon Holdings’ Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee oversees the process for identifying and 
managing material risks in the Company in accordance with the Aurizon Risk Management Framework (Risk Policy).

7.2 Annual risk review 

7.3 Internal audit 

Further details regarding the Committee, its membership and the number of meetings held during the financial 
year are set out in response to Recommendation 4.1 and on page 9 of the Annual Report.

The Board reviews Aurizon’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework and Appetite at least annually to approve 
updates, where required. The Audit, Governance & Risk Management Committee monitors management’s 
performance against Aurizon’s risk management framework, including whether it is operating within the risk 
appetite set by the Board. The Executive Committee regularly reviews and updates the enterprise risk profile to 
satisfy itself that Aurizon is operating with due regard to the risk appetite set by the Board. The Company’s Risk 
and Assurance Function is responsible for providing oversight of the risk management framework and assurance 
on the management of significant risks to the Managing Director & CEO and the Board.

The Company has an internal audit function that operates under a Board-approved Internal Audit Charter. 
The internal audit function is independent of management and the external auditor and is overseen by the Audit, 
Governance & Risk Management Committee. In accordance with the Committee Charter, the appointment or 
removal of the Head of Risk & Assurance is a matter for this Committee.

The Head of Risk & Assurance provides ongoing internal audit reports to the Audit, Governance & Risk Management 
Committee, as well as an annual assessment of the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company’s control processes 
and risk management procedures.

7.4 Sustainability risks  Aurizon Holdings discloses material exposures to environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks and associated 

risk management strategies through our annual Sustainability Report. During FY2020, the Company published 
its sixth Sustainability Report (for the period ended 30 June 2019). A copy of this report is available in the 
Sustainability section of the Company’s website aurizon.com.au.

Aurizon’s FY2020 Sustainability Report will be published in October 2020. This will be the fourth reporting 
period in which Aurizon incorporates recommendations from the Financial Stability Board’s (FSB) Final Report: 
Recommendation of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), released in June 2017.

Aurizon acknowledges and supports the objectives of the Paris Agreement to find a pathway to limiting global 
warming to below 2°C. Aurizon also acknowledges the objectives of the Paris Agreement to pursue efforts to 
limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5°C. Climate change is affecting a wide range of industries globally, 
resulting in financial implications. Transition risks, related to energy policy, regulation, technology and market shifts 
(that are necessary to achieve the transition to a low-carbon economy) will affect the demand for the commodities 
that Aurizon hauls. Physical risks related to extreme weather events will also continue to affect Aurizon through 
supply chain disruptions. Aurizon's primary channel for engaging with stakeholders on all ESG matters, including 
our climate-related disclosures, is through the publication of our Sustainability Report, which is updated and 
issued annually. 

During FY2021, Aurizon will be publishing its inaugural Climate Strategy and Action Plan which will consolidate 
Aurizon’s position on climate change underpinned by long-term strategies, actions and targets to mitigate 
climate risk and leverage emerging opportunities. 

Aurizon commits to supporting and respecting the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights, as 
set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 10 principles of the United Nations Global Compact. 
Aurizon understands its responsibility to respect human rights and commit to providing transparency on any risks 
that exist in Aurizon's supply chain and how they are being addressed. In accordance with legislation, Aurizon will 
publish its first Modern Slavery Statement during 2020, which will describe the modern slavery risks associated with 
its business activities and actions taken to address those risks.

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44

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
Principle 8: Remunerate fairly and responsibly  

RECOMMENDATION

AURIZON HOLDINGS’ COMPLIANCE WITH RECOMMENDATIONS

8.1 Remuneration 
Committee

8.2 Disclosure 
of Executive and 
Non‑Executive 
Director remuneration 
policy

Aurizon Holdings’ remuneration function is performed by the Remuneration & Human Resources Committee, 
comprising four members, all of whom are Independent Non-Executive Directors. Details of the membership of the 
Remuneration & Human Resources Committee, including the names and qualifications of the Committee members, 
are set out on pages 4 to 7 of the Annual Report.

The number of meetings held and attended by each member of the Remuneration & Human Resources Committee 
during the financial year are set out on page 9 of the Annual Report.

The Charter governing the conduct of the Remuneration & Human Resources Committee is reviewed annually and is 
available in the Governance section of the Company’s website aurizon.com.au.

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

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It reviews requirements for additional capabilities at least annually.

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

Non-Executive Directors are paid fixed fees for their services in accordance with the Company’s Constitution. The 
Chairman’s fee is inclusive of fees for Committee membership and the other Non-Executive Directors are paid a 
fixed base fee plus Committee fees, as applicable. Further detail is set out in the Remuneration Report on page 35.

The Company has in place a Share Holding and Retention Policy which applies to Non-Executive Directors, 
the Managing Director & CEO and the direct reports of the Managing Director & CEO.

Further details regarding remuneration and share retention policies, and the remuneration of senior executives and 
Non-Executive Directors, are set out on pages 25 to 38 of the Annual Report. The Company also has in place a 
Related Party Transaction Policy. The policy and disclosures under that policy are reviewed annually by the Board. 
During the year, there were no agreements entered for the provision of consulting or similar services by a Director 
or senior executive, or by a related party of a Director or senior executive.

8.3 Policy on hedging 
equity incentive 
schemes

Aurizon Holdings’ Executives must not enter into any hedge arrangement in relation to any performance rights they 
may be granted or otherwise entitled to under an incentive scheme or plan, prior to exercising those rights or, once 
exercised, while the securities are subject to a transfer restriction.

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For the purposes of this policy, hedging includes the entry into any transaction, arrangement or financial product 
which operates to limit the economic risk of a security holding in the Company and includes financial instruments 
such as equity swaps and contracts for differences. The term ‘Executive’ is broadly defined to include the 
Managing Director & CEO and his direct reports and any other person entitled to participate in an Aurizon Holdings 
performance rights plan. Further details regarding the Company’s hedging policy are set out in the Company’s 
Securities Dealing Policy which is available on the Governance section of the website aurizon.com.au.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

45

 
Financial Report
for the year ended 30 June 2020

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

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

About this report 

— Significant judgements and estimates 

Key events and transactions for the reporting period 

Results for  
the year

Operating assets 
and liabilities

Capital and 
financial risk 
management

Group  
structure

Other  
notes

1. 

 Segment 
information

7. 

 Trade and other 
receivables

15.  Capital risk 

management

2.   Revenue and 
other income

3.  Expenses

4.   Impairment of 

non-financial 
assets

5.  Income tax 

8.   Inventories

16. Dividends

9.   Property, plant 
and equipment

17.  Equity and 
reserves

10.  Intangible 
assets

11.   Other assets

18. Borrowings

19.  Financial risk 
management

12.   Trade and other 

20.  Derivative 

6.   Earnings per 

payables

share

13.   Provisions

14.  Other liabilities

financial 
instruments

21.   Associates 
and joint 
arrangements

22.  Material 

subsidiaries

23.  Parent 

28.  Notes to the 
consolidated 
statement of 
cash flows

29.  Related party 
transactions

disclosures

30.  Key 

24.  Deed of cross 
guarantee

25.  Business 

combination

26.  Discontinued 
operation

27.  Assets classified 
as held for sale

Management 
Personnel 
compensation

31.  Share-based 
payments

32.  Remuneration 
of auditors

33.  Summary of 

other significant 
accounting 
policies

34.  Changes in 
accounting 
policies

Page 47

Page 47

Page 48

Page 49

Page 50

Page 51 

Page 51

Page 51

Unrecognised  
items and events 
after reporting date

35. Contingencies

36. Commitments

37.  Events occurring 

after the 
reporting period

SIGNED REPORTS

Directors’ Declaration 

Independent auditor’s report to the members of Aurizon Holdings Limited 

ASX INFORMATION

Non-IFRS Financial Information in 2019-20 Annual Report 

Page 100

Page 101

Page 108

46

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20

Consolidated income statement
for the year ended 30 June 2020

Revenue from continuing operations

Other income

Total revenue and other income

Employee benefits expense

Energy and fuel

Track access

Consumables

Depreciation and amortisation

Impairment losses

Other expenses

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

Operating profit

Finance income

Finance expenses

Net finance costs

Profit before income tax

Income tax expense

Profit from continuing operations after tax

Profit from discontinued operations after tax

Profit for the year attributable to owners of Aurizon Holdings Limited

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

– continuing and discontinued operations

– continuing operations

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

– continuing and discontinued operations

– continuing operations

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 2020 

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income:

Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss

– changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges 

– income tax relating to these items

Other comprehensive expense for the year, net of tax

Notes

2

2

3

3

4

3

5

26

6

6

Notes

17(b)

5(d)

Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to owners of Aurizon Holdings Limited

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

2020 
$m

3,061.6

108.4

3,170.0

(791.6)

(231.3)

(107.2)

(440.7)

(558.6)

(5.7)

(20.4)

(0.1)

1,014.4

2.5

(151.0)

(148.5)

865.9

(260.8)

605.1

10.8

615.9

2019 
$m

2,905.2

2.4

2,907.6

(778.6)

(233.9)

(101.0)

(397.8)

(542.6)

(24.9)

0.1

0.1

829.0

2.9

(150.0)

(147.1)

681.9

(208.6)

473.3

3.2

476.5

Cents

Cents

31.5

31.0

31.5

30.9

2020 
$m

615.9

(35.7)

10.7

(25.0)

590.9

23.9

23.8

23.9

23.8

2019 
$m

476.5

(50.6)

15.2

(35.4)

441.1

47

FINANCIAL REPORT   
Consolidated balance sheet
as at 30 June 2020

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

Inventories

Derivative financial instruments

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Other assets

Investments accounted for using the equity method

Total non-current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Borrowings

Derivative financial instruments

Current tax liabilities

Provisions

Other liabilities

Liabilities directly associated with assets classified as held for sale

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Borrowings

Derivative financial instruments

Deferred tax liabilities

Provisions

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.

48

Notes

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

7

8

20

11

27

8

20

9

10

11

21

12

18

20

13

14

18

20

5(f)

13

14

17(a)

17(b)

29.3

460.1

145.8

0.2

14.8

65.1

715.3

38.1

220.8

8,537.1

187.5

70.5

2.7

9,056.7

9,772.0

323.0

657.6

35.1

83.4

271.3

101.3

0.7

1,472.4

25.2

481.8

117.2

0.8

6.2

108.4

739.6

40.2

196.7

8,536.3

176.9

8.6

2.8

8,961.5

9,701.1

406.7

149.0

–

40.9

273.0

75.1

3.8

948.5

2,949.6

3,220.8

45.7

605.3

64.0

277.3

3,941.9

5,414.3

4,357.7

506.6

3,395.1

456.0

4,357.7

49.1

537.4

62.9

205.0

4,075.2

5,023.7

4,677.4

906.6

3,418.5

352.3

4,677.4

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Consolidated statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 30 June 2020

Attributable to owners of Aurizon Holdings Limited

Balance at 30 June 2019

Adjustment on adoption of AASB 16

Balance at 1 July 2019

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive expense

Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the year

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners:

Buy-back of ordinary shares

Dividends provided for or paid

Share-based payments

Balance at 30 June 2020

Balance at 1 July 2018

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive expense

Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the year

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners:

Dividends provided for or paid

Share-based payments

Notes

34(a)

17(b)

17(a)

16(a)

17(b)

17(b)

16(a)

17(b)

Contributed 
equity 
$m

906.6

–

906.6

–

–

–

Reserves 
$m

3,418.5

–

3,418.5

–

(25.0)

(25.0)

(400.0)

(0.4)

–

–

(400.0)

506.6

906.6

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2.0

1.6

3,395.1

3,460.1

–

(35.4)

(35.4)

–

(6.2)

(6.2)

Balance at 30 June 2019

906.6

3,418.5

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

Retained 
earnings 
$m

352.3

1.6

353.9

615.9

–

615.9

–

(513.8)

–

(513.8)

456.0

363.4

476.5

–

476.5

(487.6)

–

(487.6)

352.3

Total  
equity 
$m

4,677.4

1.6

4,679.0

615.9

(25.0)

590.9

(400.4)

(513.8)

2.0

(912.2)

4,357.7

4,730.1

476.5

(35.4)

441.1

(487.6)

(6.2)

(493.8)

4,677.4

49

FINANCIAL REPORT  Consolidated statement of cash flows
for the year ended 30 June 2020

Cash flows from operating activities

Receipts from customers (inclusive of GST)

Payments to suppliers and employees (inclusive of GST) 

Interest received

Income taxes paid

Principal elements of lease receipts

Net cash inflow from operating activities from continuing operations

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities from discontinued operations

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Payment for acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired

Payments for property, plant and equipment

Proceeds from sale of business

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Interest paid on qualifying assets

Payments for intangibles

Distributions received from associates

Net cash (outflow) from investing activities from continuing operations

Net cash inflow from investing activities from discontinued operations

Net cash (outflow) from investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from borrowings

Repayment of borrowings

Payments of transaction costs related to borrowings 

Principal elements of lease payments 

Interest paid

Proceeds from settlement of derivatives

Payments for buy-back of ordinary shares

Payments of transaction costs for buy-back of ordinary shares

Payments for shares acquired for share-based payments

Dividends paid to Company’s shareholders

Net cash (outflow) from financing activities from continuing operations

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing activities from discontinued operations

Net cash (outflow) from financing activities

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents from continuing operations

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from discontinued operations

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the financial year

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the financial year

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

Notes

28

26

25

3

26

16

26

26

2020 
$m

3,407.6

(2,032.1)

2.8

(146.5)

5.7

1,237.5

9.9

1,247.4

(24.5)

(492.3)

165.3

15.8

(3.9)

(32.1)

–

(371.7)

0.4

(371.3)

702.0

(486.0)

(4.8)

(14.6)

(151.1)

–

(400.0)

(0.4)

(3.2)

(513.8)

(871.9)

–

2019 
$m

3,325.5

(1,867.4)

2.9

(145.3)

–

1,315.7

(25.4)

1,290.3

–

(407.8)

–

13.0

(3.9)

(32.8)

0.7

(430.8)

11.1

(419.7)

139.0

(390.0)

(2.4)

–

(150.5)

11.5

–

–

(0.6)

(487.6)

(880.6)

–

(871.9)

(880.6)

(6.1)

10.3

25.2

(0.1)

29.3

4.3

(14.3)

34.8

0.4

25.2

50

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Notes to the consolidated financial statements
30 June 2020

About this report

Aurizon Holdings Limited is a company limited by shares, incorporated 
and domiciled in Australia and is a for-profit entity for the purposes 
of preparing the financial statements. The financial statements are 
for the consolidated entity consisting of Aurizon Holdings Limited 
(the Company) and its subsidiaries and together are referred to as 
the Group or Aurizon.

The financial statements were approved for issue by the Directors on 
10 August 2020. The Directors have the power to amend and reissue 
the financial statements.

The financial statements are general purpose financial statements which:

 › Have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the 
Corporations Act 2001, Australian Accounting Standards and 
Interpretations issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board 
(AASB) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) issued 
by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB)

 › Have been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified 

by the revaluation of financial assets and liabilities (including derivative 
instruments) at fair value

 › Are presented in Australian dollars, with all amounts in the financial 
report being rounded off in accordance with ASIC Corporations 
(Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Reports) Instrument 2016/191 to 
the nearest hundred thousand dollars, unless otherwise indicated
 › Where necessary, comparative information has been restated to 

conform with changes in presentation in the current year

 › Adopt all new and amended Accounting Standards and Interpretations 
issued by the AASB that are relevant to the operations of the Group 
and effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2019
 › Equity account for associates and joint arrangements listed at note 21

The notes to the financial statements
The notes include information which is required to understand the 
financial statements and is material and relevant to the operations, 
financial position and performance of the Group. Information is 
considered material and relevant if, for example:

 › The amount in question is significant because of its size or nature
 › It is important for understanding the results of the Group
 › It helps to explain the impact of significant changes in the Group’s 
business – for example, acquisitions, disposals and impairment 
write downs

 › It relates to an aspect of the Group’s operations that is important to its 

future performance

Significant and other accounting policies that summarise the measurement 
basis used and are relevant to an understanding of the financial statements 
are provided throughout the notes to the financial statements.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
The “Keeping it simple” explanations are designed to provide 
a high level overview of the accounting treatment of the more 
complex sections of the financial statements. Disclosures in 
the notes to the financial statements provide information 
required by the Accounting Standards or ASX Listing Rules. 
The notes provide explanations and additional disclosure 
to assist readers’ understanding and interpretation of the 
financial statements.

SIGNIFICANT JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES
In the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies, 
management has made a number of judgements and applied 
estimates of future events. Details of the following judgements 
and estimates which are material to the financial statements can 
be found in the following notes:

Revenue

Impairment

Income tax

Useful lives

Discontinued operations

Note
2

4

5

9

26

Key events and transactions for the 
reporting period
The financial position and performance of the Group was particularly 
affected by the following events and transactions during the 
reporting period:

(a)  Access revenue
2017 Access Undertaking
The Queensland Competition Authority (QCA) approved Aurizon Network 
Pty Ltd’s (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group) consolidated Compliant 
Access Undertaking and Volume Reset Draft Amending Access Undertaking 
(DAAU) for the Central Queensland Coal Network (CQCN) on 21 February 
2020. Key elements of the consolidated Compliant Access Undertaking 
and Volume Reset DAAU include:

 › Extending the term of the Access Undertaking to 10 years, from 

1 July 2017 to 30 June 2027, enabling improved long-term investment 
decisions for the CQCN;

 › Greater customer involvement in assessing and pre-approving 

strategies and annual budgets for asset renewals and replacement 
(capital expenditure) and maintenance expenditure;

 › The ability for operating cost efficiencies to be retained by Aurizon;
 › An improved return which better reflects the risks of owning and 

operating the CQCN; and

 › A rebate mechanism to customers if Aurizon performs below target levels.

The Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) applied under the Compliant 
Access Undertaking and Volume Reset DAAU is 5.90%, increasing to 6.30% 
upon completion of an independent capacity assessment of the CQCN. In 
the event that a capacity deficit is identified, the WACC increase to 6.30% 
will commence when Aurizon notifies relevant parties of proposed options 
to address the deficit. The independent capacity assessment is expected to 
be completed in the second half of financial year 2021.

The consolidated Compliant Access Undertaking and Volume Reset DAAU 
approved by the QCA assumed the independent capacity assessment would 
be complete by 1 March 2020 and therefore, a combined WACC of 6.03% 
(5.90% July – February, 6.30% March – June) would apply for financial year 
2020. The delay in the independent capacity assessment and the higher 
WACC of 6.30% applying has resulted in an over-collection of access charges 
in financial year 2020 which forms part of the revenue cap adjustment. The net 
financial year 2020 revenue cap adjustment is up to $3.0 million and includes 
the over-recovery of WACC offset by a volume under-recovery and other 
adjustments. The net revenue cap adjustment is collectible in financial year 
2022 and is subject to QCA approval.

Access revenue for the period has been recognised based on the consolidated 
Compliant Access Undertaking and Volume Reset DAAU.

51

FINANCIAL REPORT  Notes to the consolidated financial statements
30 June 2020 (continued)

Key events and transactions for  
reporting period (continued)

(a)  Access revenue (continued)

Wiggins Island Rail Project (WIRP)
In the 2019 financial year, legal proceedings occurred in relation to the 
notices received by Aurizon Network Pty Ltd from the WIRP customers 
purporting to exercise a right under their WIRP Deeds to reduce their 
financial exposure in respect of payment of the non-regulated WIRP 
fee. On 27 June 2019, the Supreme Court of Queensland ruled in the 
Group’s favour. Customers appealed that decision and that appeal 
was heard in the Queensland Court of Appeal between 10 March 2020 
and 12 March 2020. A decision of the Queensland Court of Appeal is 
expected to be delivered in the first half of financial year 2021.

The WIRP customers also initiated other disputes under their respective 
WIRP Deeds which were the subject of an expert determination in 
February 2019. The Expert’s Determination was issued on 4 June 
2019 and found that the WIRP fee should be reduced. These disputes 
relate to the same component of WIRP revenue as the Supreme Court 
of Queensland proceedings and will not impact the recovery of the 
regulated access charge component of WIRP capital expenditure. 
The Group is determining options for appeal of this outcome.

Due to the ongoing dispute, no revenue in respect of the WIRP fee 
has been recognised in the 2020 financial year. 

(b)  Closure and sale of Intermodal
On 14 August 2017, the Group announced its intention to exit the 
Intermodal business through a combination of closure and sale, as such, 
the Intermodal business is disclosed as a discontinued operation from 
that date.

The Group signed a binding agreement with Pacific National 
on 28 July 2017 to sell its Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal for 
$205.0 million, of which a $35.0 million non-refundable deposit was 
received in advance. The transaction is subject to approval by the 
Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) and Foreign 
Investment Review Board (FIRB).

On 6 May 2020, the Full Federal Court unanimously dismissed an appeal 
by the ACCC that the sale of the Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal 
to Pacific National contravened section 50 of the Commonwealth’s 
Competition and Consumer Act (2010). On 26 June 2020, the ACCC 
sought special leave to the High Court to appeal the decision of the 
Full Federal Court.

It is anticipated that the special leave application decision will be 
received before the end of calender year 2020. The Group remains 
committed to exiting the Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal and on this 
basis has continued to classify the Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal as 
held for sale and a discontinued operation as at 30 June 2020.

The Queensland Intermodal business was sold to Linfox Australia Pty Ltd 
on 31 January 2019.

(c)  Sale of rail grinding business
Sale of the rail grinding business to Loram Pty Ltd completed on 
31 October 2019. The net gain on sale of $105.4 million has been 
classified as a significant item.

(d)  Acquisition of Flinders TBSH Pty Ltd
Aurizon Operations Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Group) acquired 100% of the issued shares in Flinders TBSH Pty Ltd, 
a bulk transport, handling and stevedoring services provider in North 
Queensland, for consideration of $24.8 million on 20 March 2020. The 
company was renamed Aurizon Port Services Pty Ltd. The acquisition 
includes long-term leases at the Port of Townsville with bulk storage 
warehouses and handling facilities adjacent to rail lines. Refer to note 25 
for further information.

(e)  Debt refinancing
During the year Aurizon Network Pty Ltd:

 › Reduced the capacity of the syndicated bank debt facility maturing 

July 2021 from $490.0 million to $380.0 million in July 2019;

 › Issued a long term $82.0 million fixed rate Medium Term Note maturing 

22 March 2030 in September 2019; and

 › Cancelled existing syndicated bank debt facility maturing July 

2021 and October 2022 and replaced them with bilateral bank debt 
facilities totalling $1,300.0 million maturing June 2023 – June 2025 
in June 2020.

$525.0 million Medium Term Note maturing October 2020 (AMTN 1) 
is classified as a current liability and the Group has sufficient bank debt 
facility capacity to repay the Medium Term Note.

(f)  On-market share buy-back scheme
The Group has completed an on-market share buy-back program of 
up to $400.0 million. The Group acquired 75.5 million shares for total 
consideration of $400.0 million.

(g)  Deed of Cross Guarantee
The Deed of Cross Guarantee, for which Aurizon Holdings Limited was 
the Trustee, was revoked effective 14 February 2020. Aurizon Operations 
Limited has subsequently entered a Deed of Cross Guarantee as Trustee 
with all parties of the former consolidated group (the ‘closed group’), 
except for Aurizon Holdings Limited, on 22 April 2020. Refer to note 24 
for further information.

(h)  Change in accounting policies
The Group adopted AASB 16 Leases retrospectively from 1 July 2019 
and comparatives for the 2019 financial year have not been restated 
as permitted under specific transitional provisions in the standard. 
The impact of the new leasing standard and change in accounting 
policies are disclosed in note 34.

(i)  Impact of COVID-19
COVID-19 has had no material impact on the Group in financial year 
2020. The potential risk of the COVID-19 pandemic on key assumptions 
used in impairment testing and assessment of useful lives is included in 
the significant judgement disclosures.

52

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Results for the year

IN THIS SECTION

Results for the year provides segment information and a 
breakdown of individual line items in the consolidated income 
statement that the Directors consider most relevant, including 
a summary of the accounting policies, judgements and estimates 
relevant to understanding these line items.

1 

Segment information 

2  Revenue and other income 

3  Expenses 

4 

Impairment of non-financial assets 

5 

Income tax 

6  Earnings per share 

Page 54

Page 57

Page 59

Page 60

Page 61

Page 63

53

FINANCIAL REPORT  1  Segment information

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
Segment reporting requires presentation of financial 
information based on the information that is internally 
provided to the Managing Director & CEO and the 
Executive Committee (chief operating decision makers).

Aurizon determines and presents operating segments on a business 
unit structure basis as this is how the results are reported internally and 
how the business is managed. The Managing Director & CEO and the 
Executive Committee assess the performance of the Group based on the 
underlying EBIT.

Unless otherwise noted, the segment reporting information excludes 
discontinued operations. Information relating to discontinued operations 
is included in note 26.

(a)  Description of segments
The following summary describes the operations in each of the Group’s 
reportable segments:

Network
Provision of access to, and operation of, the Central Queensland 
Coal Network (CQCN). Provision of maintenance and renewal of 
Network assets.

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

Bulk
Transport of bulk mineral commodities, agricultural products, mining 
and industrial inputs, and general freight throughout Queensland and 
Western Australia.

Other
Includes provision of services to internal and external customers 
and central costs not allocated such as Board, Managing Director 
& CEO, company secretary, strategy and investor relations.

54

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–201  Segment information (continued)

(b)  Segment information

Network
$m

Coal
$m

Bulk
$m

Other
$m

Total continuing 
operations
$m

30 June 2020

External revenue

Revenue from external customers

Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services

Other revenue

Total revenue from external customers

Internal revenue

Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services

Total internal revenue

Total revenue

Other income

Total revenue and other income

Internal elimination

Consolidated revenue and other income

Continuing EBITDA (Underlying)1,2

Depreciation and amortisation

Continuing EBIT (Underlying)1

Significant adjustments (note 1(c))

EBIT1

Net finance costs

Profit before income tax from continuing operations

1   Refer to page 108 for Non-IFRS financial information.

617.4

–

18.7

29.0

665.1

514.3

–

9.1

523.4

1,188.5

–

1,188.5

798.1

(329.3)

468.8

512.8

1,260.3

–

2.2

1,775.3

–

–

–

–

–

568.8

23.1

1.0

592.9

–

14.6

1.3

15.9

1,775.3

608.8

–

–

1,775.3

608.8

–

–

16.2

12.1

28.3

–

–

9.4

9.4

37.7

3.0

40.7

616.4

(205.8)

410.6

110.1

(20.2)

89.9

(57.0)

(3.3)

(60.3)

1,130.2

1,829.1

58.0

44.3

3,061.6

514.3

14.6

19.8

548.7

3,610.3

3.0

3,613.3

(548.7)

3,064.6

1,467.6

(558.6)

909.0

105.4

1,014.4

(148.5)

865.9

2   Refer to note 34 for details regarding the impact of changes in the Group’s accounting policies following the adoption of the new leasing standard from 1 July 2019 

on segment information. The new leasing standard has been adopted retrospectively and comparatives for the 2019 financial year have not been restated as permitted 
under specific transitional provisions in the standard.

55

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  1  Segment information (continued)

(b)  Segment information (continued)

Network
$m

Coal
$m

Bulk
$m

Other
$m

Total continuing 
operations
$m

30 June 2019

External revenue

Revenue from external customers

Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services

Other revenue

Total revenue from external customers

Internal revenue

Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services

Total internal revenue

Total revenue

Other income

Total revenue and other income

Internal elimination

Consolidated revenue and other income

Continuing EBITDA (Underlying)1

Depreciation and amortisation

Continuing EBIT (Underlying)1

EBIT1

Net finance costs

Profit before income tax from continuing operations

1  Refer to page 108 for Non-IFRS financial information.

590.0

–

9.7

31.9

631.6

480.3

–

5.8

486.1

1,117.7

–

1,117.7

721.2

(320.9)

400.3

487.7

1,236.2

–

0.9

1,724.8

–

–

–

–

1,724.8

–

1,724.8

609.8

(194.7)

415.1

–

465.2

23.3

0.5

489.0

–

9.4

0.9

10.3

499.3

2.4

501.7

–

–

41.3

18.5

59.8

–

–

22.4

22.4

82.2

–

82.2

54.5

(17.2)

37.3

(13.9)

(9.8)

(23.7)

1,077.7

1,701.4

74.3

51.8

2,905.2

480.3

9.4

29.1

518.8

3,424.0

2.4

3,426.4

(518.8)

2,907.6

1,371.6

(542.6)

829.0

829.0

(147.1)

681.9

56

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–201  Segment information (continued)

(c)  Significant adjustments
The Group’s underlying results differ from the statutory results. The 
exclusion of certain items permits a more appropriate and meaningful 
analysis of the Group’s underlying performance on a comparative basis.

Net gain on sale of rail grinding business 
(before income tax)

Total significant adjustments 
(continuing operations)

2020  
$m

2019  
$m

105.4

105.4

–

–

Total significant adjustments from continuing operations, net of tax 
is $73.8 million.

For disclosure on the significant items relating to discontinued 
operations refer to note 26.

(d)  Customer disclosure
The nature of the Group’s business is that it enters into long-term 
contracts with key customers. Two customers each contribute more 
than 10% of the Group’s total revenue as detailed below:

Customer 1

Customer 2

Total

2020 
$m

522.2

438.2

960.4

2019 
$m

2020 
credit rating

2019 
credit rating

488.7

405.9

894.6

A

BBB+

A

BBB+

2  Revenue and other income

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
Aurizon recognises revenue from the provision of access 
to the CQCN and the provision of freight haulage services 
across Australia.

The Group derives the following types of revenue:

Services revenue

Track access

Freight transport

Other services

Other revenue

1,130.2

1,829.1

58.0

44.3

1,077.7

1,701.4

74.3

51.8

Total revenue from continuing operations

3,061.6

2,905.2

Other income

108.4

2.4

Total revenue and other income from 
continuing operations

3,170.0

2,907.6

Other income includes net gain on sale of rail grinding business.

(a)   Disaggregation of revenue from contracts 

with customers

The Group derives revenue from the provision of services over time. 
Revenue is disaggregated by the Group’s segments, refer to note 1(b).

(b)  Contract assets and liabilities

(i)  Contract assets

The Group has recognised the following revenue related contract assets:

Current

Contract assets for freight transport

Customer contract costs

Non-current

Contract assets for freight transport

Customer contract costs

2020
$m

2019
$m

0.2

1.1

1.3

14.7

7.2

21.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

Contract assets primarily represent incremental costs incurred to secure 
new or extensions to existing customer contracts. These amounts 
are capitalised and amortised against revenue as the performance 
obligations are satisfied over time.

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than five years

Later than five years

2020
$m

1.3

16.3

5.6

23.2

2019
$m

–

–

–

–

(ii)  Contract liabilities

The Group has recognised the following revenue-related 
contract liabilities:

2020  
$m

2019  
$m

Current

Advances for freight transport

Advances for other services

Non-current

Advances for freight transport

Advances for other services

2020
$m

2019
$m

2.0

26.5

28.5

14.4

136.0

150.4

1.8

26.4

28.2

3.9

161.1

165.0

Contract liabilities primarily represent amounts received from customers 
as advances for future track access under agreements for mine specific 
infrastructure. These amounts are deferred and earned over the term of 
the agreements using the output method as performance obligations 
are satisfied.

57

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  2 Revenue and other income (continued)

SIGNIFICANT JUDGEMENTS 

(b)  Contract assets and liabilities (continued)

(ii)  Contract liabilities (continued)

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than five years

Later than five years

2020
$m

28.5

109.7

40.7

178.9

2019
$m

28.2

124.7

40.3

193.2

The reduction in contract liabilities primarily represents revenue 
recognised for prepayments from future access charges in previous 
financial years, offset by freight revenue received in advance under 
transport agreements during the financial year.

(iii)  Revenue recognised in relation to contract liabilities

The following table shows how much of the revenue recognised in the 
current reporting period relates to carried-forward contract liabilities.

Revenue recognised that was included in the 
contract liability balance at the beginning of 
the year

Advances for freight transport

Advances for other services

2020
$m

2019
$m

0.4

26.8

27.2

1.2

26.0

27.2

(iv)  Unsatisfied performance obligations

The Group has a number of long-term contracts to provide services to 
customers in future periods. The majority of revenues are recognised 
on an as invoiced basis, hence, the right to consideration from a customer 
corresponds directly with the entity’s performance completed to date.

Long-term track access and freight transport contracts are considered 
by management to be a series of annual performance obligations 
that are satisfied within each financial year. Any amounts received 
as prepayments to provide access to the CQCN are recognised over 
the term of the access agreement as performance obligations are 
satisfied. The Group applies the practical expedient in paragraph 121 
of AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and does not 
disclose information on the transaction price allocated to performance 
obligations that are unsatisfied.

All other track access and freight transport contracts for periods of 
one year or less are billed monthly based on the services provided. 
As permitted under AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers, 
the transaction price allocated to these unsatisfied performance 
obligations is not disclosed.

Take-or-Pay revenue 
Take-or-Pay clauses may trigger when annual volumes railed are 
less than the regulatory forecast. Take-or-Pay is calculated based 
on management’s judgement of below rail cause versus above rail 
operator/mine cancellations. This judgement impacts the calculation 
of Take-or-Pay and the receivable recognised in the year that the 
contractual railings were not achieved. Take-or-Pay revenue of 
$25.6 million has been recognised at 30 June 2020 (2019: $4.2 million).

Wiggins Island Rail Project (WIRP) Access Revenue
In the 2019 financial year, legal proceedings occurred in relation to 
the notices received by Aurizon Network Pty Ltd from the WIRP 
customers purporting to exercise a right under their WIRP Deeds 
to reduce their financial exposure in respect of payment of the 
non-regulated WIRP fee. On 27 June 2019, the Supreme Court of 
Queensland ruled in the Group’s favour. Customers appealed that 
decision and that appeal was heard in the Queensland Court of 
Appeal between 10 March 2020 and 12 March 2020. A decision of the 
Queensland Court of Appeal is expected to be delivered in the first 
half of financial year 2021.

The WIRP customers also initiated other disputes under their 
respective WIRP Deeds which were the subject of an expert 
determination in February 2019. The Expert’s Determination was 
issued on 4 June 2019 and found that the WIRP fee should be 
reduced. These disputes relate to the same component of WIRP 
revenue as the Supreme Court of Queensland proceedings and will 
not impact the recovery of the regulated access charge component 
of WIRP capital expenditure. The Group is determining options for 
appeal of this outcome.

Due to the ongoing dispute, no revenue in respect of the WIRP fee 
has been recognised in the 2020 financial year.

Freight Transport Contract Modifications
Modifications to existing agreements where there is also a new 
agreement put in place are assessed based on the facts and substance 
of the individual contractual arrangements and will be accounted 
for as either combined or separate contracts in accordance with 
AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers. There is significant 
judgement exercised in determining if a modification to an existing 
agreement should be treated as a combined or separate contract. 
Judgement, including expected volumes to be railed in individual 
contract years and whether the contract price represents the market 
price in the respective contract period, is applied in determining 
contract or liabilities recorded. These judgements impact the timing 
of revenue recognition over the life of the individual contract.

(c) Recognition and measurement
The Group recognises revenue as the relevant performance obligations 
are satisfied. Revenue includes the provision of track access and freight 
transport services as described below.

(i)  Track access
Track access revenue is generated from the provision of access to, and 
operation of, the CQCN. Access revenue is recognised over time as the 
relevant performance obligations are satisfied, being the provision of 
access to the rail network.

A contract liability is recorded for revenue received in advance of satisfying 
a performance obligation and is subsequently recognised in profit and loss 
as the performance obligation is satisfied during the term of the contract.

58

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
2 Revenue and other income (continued)

(c) Recognition and measurement (continued)

(i)  Track access (continued)

Approved Access Undertaking
Track access revenue is recognised as track access is provided and is 
measured on a number of operating parameters including volumes hauled 
applied to regulator approved tariffs. The tariffs charged are determined 
with reference to the total allowable revenue, applied to the regulatory 
approved annual volume forecast for each system. At each balance date, 
track access revenue and receivables include an amount of revenue for 
which performance obligations have been met under the respective 
contract but have not yet settled. The Group has an unconditional right 
to receive this consideration once the performance obligation is satisfied 
and therefore a trade receivable is recognised for these amounts.

Where annual volumes railed are less than the regulatory forecast, Take-
or-Pay may trigger. Take-or-Pay is recognised as a receivable in the year 
that the contractual railings were not achieved as the related performance 
obligations have been satisfied.

The majority of access revenue is subject to a revenue cap mechanism 
that serves to ensure the rail network recovers its system allowable 
revenue over the regulatory period. A revenue adjustment event results 
in the under or over recovery of regulatory access revenue (net of Take-
or-Pay revenue) for a financial year being recognised in the accounting 
revenues in the second financial year following the event as per the 
Access Undertaking.

Access revenue for the financial year has been recognised based on the 
consolidated Compliant Access Undertaking and Volume Reset DAAU. 
Refer to key events and transactions during the reporting period for 
further information.

(ii)  Freight transport
Freight transport revenue is recognised as the relevant performance 
obligations are satisfied over time, being the provision of freight 
transport services.

Freight transport revenue is billed monthly in arrears and recognised 
at rates specified in each contractual agreement and adjusted for the 
amortisation of customer contract assets or liabilities. At each balance 
date, freight transport revenue includes an amount of revenue for 
which performance obligations have been met under the respective 
contract but have not yet settled. These amounts are recognised 
as trade receivables.

A contract modification is a separate contract if the scope of services 
is increased by distinct additional services and the total price increases 
by the market rate for those services over the remaining contract period. 
Where the distinct services don’t indicate market prices, weighted-
average contract rates are applied which may result in the recognition 
of a contract asset or liability that amortise over the term of the 
individual contract.

Modifications to existing agreements where there is also a new 
agreement put in place are assessed based on the facts and substance 
of the individual contractual arrangements and will be accounted for 
as either combined or separate contracts.

A contract asset is recorded for revenue when the Group does not 
have an unconditional right to invoice the customer for performance 
obligations satisfied. A contract liability is recorded for revenue received 
in advance of satisfying a performance obligation and is recognised over 
the term of the contract.

(iii)  Capitalisation of customer contract costs
Where incremental costs are incurred to secure new or extensions to 
existing customer contracts these costs are capitalised as a contract 
asset and amortised against revenue as the performance obligations 
are satisfied over time in the new contract.

Where an arrangement contains a significant financing component 
the transaction price is adjusted to reflect the effects of the financing 
component and a contract asset is recognised and amortised against 
revenue as the performance obligations are satisfied over time.

3  Expenses

Profit before income tax from continuing operations includes the 
following specific expenses:

Employee benefits expense

Defined benefit superannuation expense

Defined contribution superannuation expense

Redundancies

Salaries, wages and allowances including on-costs

Depreciation and amortisation

Depreciation

Amortisation of intangibles

Impairment losses1

Property, plant and equipment

Intangibles

1  Refer to note 4 for information.

Finance expenses

2020 
$m

2019  
$m

10.2

57.9

16.0

707.5

791.6

530.8

27.8

558.6

5.7

–

5.7

11.4

54.3

21.4

691.5

778.6

516.9

25.7

542.6

24.7

0.2

24.9

Interest and finance charges paid/payable

152.3

155.1

Interest paid on lease liability 

Provisions: unwinding of discount

Amortisation of capitalised borrowing costs

Amortisation of AMTN 2 fair value adjustment

Counterparty credit risk adjustments

Amount capitalised to qualifying assets

5.1

–

3.8

(2.4)

(3.9)

154.9

(3.9)

151.0

–

0.1

3.5

(0.9)

(3.9)

153.9

(3.9)

150.0

59

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  Notes to the consolidated financial statements
30 June 2020 (continued)

4  Impairment of non-financial assets

Continuing operations

Bulk impairment

Asset impairment as a result of transfer to held 
for sale

Other assets

Discontinued operations

Intermodal impairment

Total impairment of non-financial assets

2020  
$m

2019  
$m

–

–

5.7

5.7

–

5.7

11.4

13.5

–

24.9

25.1

50.0

(a)  Impairment of non-financial assets 

Current period
An impairment charge has been recognised for other assets not in use 
as at 30 June 2020 for which the carrying amount is not considered 
recoverable. This impairment has not been classified as a significant item.

Prior period

(i)  Bulk impairment ($11.4 million) 

An impairment charge was recognised in respect of the Bulk East CGU 
using fair value less costs of disposal (FVLCD) methodology during 
the 2017 and 2018 financial years. The Bulk East CGU continued to be 
valued under FVLCD methodology during the 2019 financial year, and as 
a result, an impairment charge of $11.4 million was recorded in respect 
of additional sustaining capital expenditure not considered recoverable. 
The residual carrying value of property, plant and equipment as at 30 
June 2019 was $45.8 million. This impairment was not classified as a 
significant item.

(ii)   Asset impairment as a result of transfer to held for sale 

($13.5 million)

As a result of the transfer of assets to held for sale, an asset impairment 
of $13.5 million was recognised in the 2019 financial year. This impairment 
was not classified as a significant item.

(iii)   Discontinued operations – Intermodal impairment 

($25.1 million)

As a result of the sale of the Queensland Intermodal business an asset 
impairment of $25.1 million was recognised at 30 June 2019.

SIGNIFICANT JUDGEMENTS 
The Group considers annually whether there have been any indicators 
of impairment or impairment reversal and then tests whether non-
current assets have suffered any impairment, in accordance with the 
accounting policy stated in note 9 and note 10.

Impairment tests for cash generating units (CGUs) and goodwill 
CGUs are tested for impairment whenever events or circumstances 
indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. CGUs 
containing goodwill are tested for impairment annually, or more 
frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might 
be impaired. CGUs that have previously recognised an impairment to 
the carrying amount are reviewed for impairment reversal whenever 
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the recoverable 
amount may exceed the carrying amount.

Indicators of impairment reversal were identified for the Bulk East and 
Western Australian CGUs.

The recoverable amount of a CGU is determined based on value in 
use calculations. These calculations use cash flow projections based 
on a corporate plan approved by the Board covering a four-year 
period. Cash flows beyond the four-year period are extrapolated 
using estimated growth rates.

The Group applies a pre-tax discount rate of 10.4% (2019: 10.9%) and 
terminal growth rate of 2.0% (2019: 2.0%) to the below CGUs. There 
is a risk that the assumptions applied to the CGUs below may be 
impacted by the effects of either COVID-19 or climate-related emerging 
risks and don’t reflect the actual future impact. The recoverable amount 
of the Bulk East and Western Australia CGUs were tested for sensitivity 
of the pre-tax discount rate as well as other factors as noted below.

Bulk East CGU
The Bulk East CGU includes goodwill of $5.2 million acquired on 
acquisition of a subsidiary (refer to note 25) in the financial year. 
The CGU was previously impaired under fair value less costs of disposal 
methodology. The recoverable amount of the CGU is now determined 
based on the value in use methodology. The recoverable amount is 
sensitive to changes in customer contractual arrangements and should 
any major contracts not be renewed, this may result in a reduction to 

the recoverable amount of the CGU. The recoverable amount of the 
CGU supports the carrying amount including goodwill, therefore no 
further impairment has been recognised. Due to the sensitivity of the 
recoverable amount to the renewal of major customer contracts, no 
reversal of previous impairment has been recognised.

Western Australia CGU
The Western Australia CGU was previously impaired under value 
in use methodology. The Western Australia CGU has a small number 
of customers and the recoverable amount is sensitive to changes in 
customer contractual arrangements. The recoverable amount of the 
CGU was determined taking into consideration expected end of mine 
life for major contracts. Should any major contracts not be renewed 
or the remaining iron ore customer either cease to operate before 
the expected end of mine life or be unable to comply with current 
contractual arrangements, it may result in a change to the impairment 
recorded for the CGU. The recoverable amount of the CGU supports the 
carrying amount, therefore no further impairment has been recognised. 
Due to the sensitivity in major customer assumptions no reversal of 
previous impairment has been recognised.

Impairment tests for property, plant and equipment 
Assets that are subject to depreciation and amortisation are reviewed 
for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Assets 
that have previously been impaired are reviewed for impairment 
reversal whenever events or changes in circumstance indicate that 
the recoverable amount may exceed the carrying amount.

The Group prepares an Enterprise Fleet Plan to determine the level 
of rollingstock required. The Enterprise Fleet Plan covers a 10-year 
period and key assumptions include forecast volumes, productivity 
and required level of contingent fleet.

There is a risk that the key assumptions applied may be impacted by 
the effects of either COVID-19 or climate-related emerging risks and 
the forecast volumes, productivity or contingent fleet requirements 
don’t reflect the actual rollingstock required.

60

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
30 June 2020 (continued)

5 Income tax

(a)  Income tax expense

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
This note provides an analysis of the Group’s income tax 
expense/benefit (including a reconciliation of income tax 
expense to accounting profit), deferred tax balances and 
income tax recognised directly in equity.

Differences between tax law and accounting standards 
result in non-temporary (permanent) and temporary 
(timing) differences between tax and accounting income. 
Current income tax expense is equal to net profit before 
tax multiplied by the applicable tax rate, adjusted for 
non-temporary differences. Temporary differences do 
not adjust income tax expense as they reverse over time. 
Until they reverse, a deferred tax asset or liability must be 
recognised on the balance sheet. This note also includes 
details of income tax recognised directly in equity.

The Group recognises a significant net deferred tax liability 
and a current cash tax position significantly lower than 
the applicable tax rate. This is primarily due to accelerated 
fixed asset tax depreciation and is common for entities 
operating in a capital intensive environment.

Current tax

Deferred tax

Current tax relating to prior periods

Deferred tax relating to prior periods

2020 
$m

186.6

81.2

1.1

(3.7)

2019 
$m

127.6

73.4

(1.5)

1.3

265.2

200.8

Income tax expense/(benefit) is attributable to:

Profit from continuing operations

260.8

208.6

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations 
(note 26(b))

Deferred income tax expense included in 
income tax expense comprises:

Increase/(decrease) in deferred tax assets 
(note 5(e))

Increase in deferred tax liabilities (note 5(f))

4.4

265.2

(7.8)

200.8

11.7

65.8

77.5

(21.2)

95.9

74.7

(b)   Numerical reconciliation of income tax expense to prima 

facie tax payable

Profit before income tax expense from 
continuing operations

Profit/(loss) before income tax expense from 
discontinued operations

Tax at the Australian tax rate of 30% (2019: 30%)

Tax effect of amounts which are not deductible 
(taxable) in calculating taxable income:

Capital losses not recognised

Other

Adjustments for current tax of prior periods

(c)  Amounts recognised directly in equity

Aggregate deferred tax arising in the reporting 
period and directly debited/(credited) to equity

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

865.9

681.9

15.2

881.1

264.3

(4.6)

677.3

203.2

1.1

2.4

(2.6)

3.6

(5.8)

(0.2)

265.2

200.8

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

0.7

(1.6)

(d)   Tax expense/(benefit) relating to items of other 

comprehensive income

Cash flow hedges

2020 
$m

(10.7)

2019 
$m

(15.2)

61

FINANCIAL REPORT  Notes to the consolidated financial statements
30 June 2020 (continued)

5  Income tax (continued)

(e)  Deferred tax assets

Total deferred tax assets

Set-off of deferred tax liabilities pursuant to set-off provisions

Net deferred tax assets

2020
$m

265.2

2019
$m

236.1

(265.2)

(236.1)

–

–

The table below outlines the temporary differences and movements in those temporary differences that comprise the deferred tax assets:

Consumables
and spares
$m

Provisions/ 
accruals 
$m

Customer 
contracts 
$m

Unearned 
revenue 
$m

Financial 
instruments 
$m

Movements

At 1 July 2019

Adjustment on adoption of AASB 16

Acquisition of subsidiary (note 25)

(Charged)/credited

– to profit or loss

– to other comprehensive income

– directly to equity

At 30 June 2020

At 1 July 2018

(Charged)/credited

– to profit or loss

– to other comprehensive income

– directly to equity

At 30 June 2019 

(f)  Deferred tax liabilities

7.0

–

–

2.1

–

–

9.1

(1.2)

8.2

–

–

7.0

108.7

–

0.2

7.3

–

–

12.2

–

–

(2.6)

(7.3)

(3.2)

–

–

106.3

121.3

–

–

–

14.7

(12.6)

(7.4)

–

–

108.7

–

–

7.3

–

–

9.0

11.9

0.3

–

–

12.2

Other 
$m

15.8

26.2

4.4

(5.8)

–

(0.7)

39.9

Total 
$m

236.1

26.2

4.6

(11.7)

10.7

(0.7)

265.2

85.1

–

–

5.1

10.7

–

100.9

41.9

9.5

198.1

28.0

15.2

–

85.1

4.7

–

1.6

15.8

2020
$m

870.5

21.2

15.2

1.6

236.1

2019
$m

773.5

(265.2)

(236.1)

605.3

537.4

Total deferred tax liabilities

Set-off of deferred tax liabilities pursuant to set-off provisions

Net deferred tax liabilities

The table below outlines the temporary differences and movements in those temporary differences that comprise the deferred tax liabilities:

Movements 

At 1 July 2019

Adjustment on adoption of AASB 16

Acquisition of subsidiary (note 25)

Charged/(credited)

– profit or loss

At 30 June 2020

At 1 July 2018

Charged/(credited)

– profit or loss

At 30 June 2019

62

Non-current 
assets
$m

Accrued 
income 
$m

Financial 
instruments 
$m

711.8

26.2

5.0

58.4

801.4

642.3

69.5

711.8

2.4

–

–

0.4

2.8

1.7

0.7

2.4

59.3

–

–

7.0

66.3

33.6

25.7

59.3

Total 
$m

773.5

26.2

5.0

65.8

870.5

677.6

95.9

773.5

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
 
5  Income tax (continued)

6  Earnings per share

(f)  Deferred tax liabilities (continued)

SIGNIFICANT JUDGEMENTS 
The deferred tax asset of $67.8 million, attributable to the impairment 
of the investment in an associate in the 2016 financial year has not 
been recognised as it is not considered probable that it will be 
recovered in the foreseeable future. The recoverability of the deferred 
tax asset is dependent on the sale of shares in the associate.

Recognition and measurement
The income tax expense or credit for the year is the tax payable on the 
current year’s taxable income based on the applicable income tax rate 
for each jurisdiction adjusted by changes in deferred tax assets and 
liabilities attributable to temporary differences and 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 year 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 and 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 substantively enacted by the end of the reporting year 
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 only if it is probable that future 
taxable amounts will be available to utilise those temporary differences 
and losses.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where there is a legally 
enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and where 
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 in other comprehensive 
income or directly in equity, the deferred tax is also recognised 
in other comprehensive income or directly in equity.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
Earnings per share (EPS) is the amount of post-tax profit 
attributable to each share.

(a)  Basic earnings per share
Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to owners of the 
Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding.

Basic earnings per share attributable to the 
ordinary equity holders of the Company:

– continuing and discontinued operations

– continuing operations

2020 
Cents

2019 
Cents

31.5

31.0

23.9

23.8

(b)  Diluted earnings per share
Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to owners 
of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares 
outstanding after adjustment for the effects of all dilutive potential 
ordinary shares.

Diluted earnings per share attributable to the 
ordinary equity holders of the Company:

– continuing and discontinued operations

– continuing operations

(c)   Weighted average number of shares  

used as denominator

Weighted average number of ordinary  
shares used as the denominator in  
calculating basic earnings per share

Adjustments for calculation of diluted EPS:

2020 
Cents

2019 
Cents

31.5

30.9

23.9

23.8

2020  
Number  
‘000

2019  
Number  
‘000

1,952,895

1,990,128

Rights

2,918

1,567

Weighted average number of ordinary 
and potential ordinary shares used as the 
denominator in calculating diluted EPS

1,955,813

1,991,695

63

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT   
 
Operating assets  
and liabilities

IN THIS SECTION

Operating assets and liabilities provides information about 
the working capital of the Group and major balance sheet 
items, including the accounting policies, judgements and 
estimates relevant to understanding these items.

7  Trade and other receivables 

8 

Inventories 

9  Property, plant and equipment 

10 

Intangible assets 

11  Other assets 

12  Trade and other payables 

13  Provisions 

14  Other liabilities 

Page 65

Page 65

Page 66

Page 69

Page 70

Page 70

Page 70

Page 72

64

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)7  Trade and other receivables

8  Inventories

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

Current

366.1

Raw materials and stores – at cost

(5.8)

Provision for inventory obsolescence

Non-current

Raw materials and stores – at cost

Provision for inventory obsolescence

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

155.9

(10.1)

145.8

50.5

(12.4)

38.1

130.9

(13.7)

117.2

53.0

(12.8)

40.2

Recognition and measurement 
Inventories include infrastructure and rollingstock items held in 
centralised stores, workshops and depots. Inventories are measured 
at the lower of cost and net realisable value. 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.

Current

Trade receivables

Provision for impairment of receivables 

Net trade receivables

Other receivables

352.1

(7.7)

344.4

115.7

460.1

360.3

121.5

481.8

Other receivables include revenue for services performed but not yet 
invoiced under contracts including external construction contracts, 
Take-or-Pay and annual GAPE fees.

The creation or release of the provision for impairment of receivables 
has been included in profit or loss. Amounts charged to the provision 
account are generally written off when there is no expectation of 
recovering additional cash. During the financial year, $1.9 million of 
the provision for impairment of receivables was expensed to profit 
or loss (2019: $21.9 million released).

Recognition and measurement
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.

The Group applies the simplified approach to providing for expected 
credit losses prescribed by AASB 9 Financial Instruments, which requires 
the use of the lifetime expected loss provision for all trade receivables.

The Group’s debtors exhibit similar credit risk characteristics and 
exposure. Estimating the Group’s credit risk to debtors has focused 
largely on experienced payment history and outlook. The trade 
receivable balances disclosed are unsecured and represent the 
Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk.

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2016–17

65

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT   
 
9  Property, plant and equipment

Assets under 
construction 
$m

Land 
$m

Buildings 
$m

Plant and 
equipment 
$m

Rollingstock 
$m

Infrastructure 
$m

Right-
of-use
$m

Total 
$m

2020

Opening net book amount

281.7

138.9

266.1

285.7

2,202.0

5,361.9

–

8,536.3

Adjustment for change in 
accounting policy (note 34(a))

–

–

Restated opening net book amount

281.7

138.9

Additions

Transfers between asset classes

Acquisition of subsidiary (note 25)

Disposals

494.6

(473.9)

–

–

–

0.3

–

(1.1)

Assets classified as held for sale

(1.3)

(13.8)

Depreciation1

Impairment2

–

–

–

–

(48.9)

217.2

–

10.5

6.1

(2.6)

(7.2)

(12.6)

–

Closing net book amount

301.1

124.3

211.4

–

–

–

102.2

53.3

285.7

2,202.0

5,361.9

102.2

8,589.6

–

20.5

11.6

(1.9)

(0.1)

(43.8)

(1.9)

270.1

–

139.4

–

(0.1)

–

–

303.3

0.9

(5.4)

(5.8)

0.3

–

14.6

(4.7)

–

494.9

0.1

33.2

(15.8)

(28.2)

(162.4)

(298.0)

(14.2)

(531.0)

–

–

(3.8)

(5.7)

2,178.9

5,356.9

94.4

8,537.1

At 30 June 2020

Cost

Accumulated depreciation 
and impairment

Net book amount

Owned

Leased

2019

Opening net book amount

Additions

Transfers between asset classes

Disposals

Assets classified as held for sale

Depreciation1

Impairment2

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2018

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation 
and impairment

Net book amount

Owned

Leased

301.1

124.3

461.1

670.1

5,284.7

7,917.6

120.0

14,878.9

–

301.1

301.1

–

124.3

98.5

25.8

301.1

124.3

–

(249.7)

(400.0)

(3,105.8)

(2,560.7)

(25.6)

(6,341.8)

211.4

209.5

1.9

211.4

270.1

270.1

–

270.1

2,178.9

2,178.9

–

2,178.9

5,356.9

985.5

4,371.4

5,356.9

94.4

8,537.1

–

4,043.6

94.4

94.4

4,493.5

8,537.1

Assets under 
construction 
$m

Land 
$m

Buildings 
$m

Plant and 
equipment 
$m

Rollingstock 
$m

Infrastructure 
$m

Total 
$m

275.3

467.6

(424.7)

–

(25.2)

–

(11.3)

281.7

126.5

–

0.6

(1.9)

13.7

–

–

138.9

231.3

–

64.0

(5.7)

5.9

(19.6)

(9.8)

266.1

327.6

–

41.3

(3.1)

(27.7)

(50.7)

(1.7)

285.7

2,231.7

–

128.6

(1.1)

(0.1)

(155.2)

(1.9)

5,467.5

8,659.9

–

192.3

(5.1)

1.1

(291.6)

(2.3)

467.6

2.1

(16.9)

(32.3)

(517.1)

(27.0)

2,202.0

5,361.9

8,536.3

281.7

138.9

520.2

655.3

5,165.2

7,644.2

14,405.5

–

281.7

281.7

–

281.7

–

138.9

113.4

25.5

138.9

(254.1)

(369.6)

(2,963.2)

(2,282.3)

(5,869.2)

266.1

264.0

2.1

266.1

285.7

285.7

–

285.7

2,202.0

2,202.0

–

2,202.0

5,361.9

973.4

4,388.5

5,361.9

8,536.3

4,120.2

4,416.1

8,536.3

1   Depreciation of $531.0 million (2019: $517.1 million) includes depreciation from continuing operations of $530.8 million (2019: $516.9 million) (note 3) and discontinued 

operations of $0.2 million (2019: $0.2 million) (note 26).

2   Impairment of $5.7 million (2019: $27.0 million) includes impairment from continuing operations of $5.7 million (2019: $24.7 million) (note 3) and discontinued operations 

of $nil (2019: $2.3 million) (note 26).

66

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–209   Property, plant and equipment  

(continued)

SIGNIFICANT JUDGEMENTS

Useful lives
The useful lives of assets are determined based on the expected 
period of time over which economic benefits from use of the asset 
will be derived. The useful life of assets is reviewed on an annual 
basis with consideration of key assumptions including historical 
and forecast usage rates, technological advancements, changes in 
legal and economic environments.

The useful life of property, plant and equipment in use in the 
Queensland Coal, New South Wales and Network CGUs were reviewed 
in the financial year due to the potential effects of COVID-19 and 
climate-related emerging risks. The assumptions reviewed included 
volume growth, including a negative volume growth scenario to reflect 
the potential impact on thermal coal exports, and expected end of mine 
life for major contracts. The assumptions reviewed support the remaining 
useful life of property, plant and equipment in use in these CGUs.

There is a risk that the assessment of factors used to determine 
useful lives of property, plant and equipment may be impacted by 
the effects of either COVID-19 or climate-related emerging risks and 
as a result useful lives may be revised in the future resulting in a 
change in depreciation rates.

(a)  Leases
The Group has adopted AASB 16 Leases retrospectively from 1 July 
2019, and has not restated comparatives for the 2019 financial year 
as permitted under the specific transitional provisions in the standard. 
The reclassifications and the adjustments arising from the new leasing 
rules are therefore recognised in the opening balance sheet on 1 July 
2019. Refer note 34(a) for further information.

On adoption of AASB 16 Leases, fit-out assets relating to leased buildings 
were reclassified to right-of-use. Coal infrastructure, corridor land and 
buildings captured by leases with the State and Queensland Rail as 
noted below were not reclassified to the right-of-use asset class in order 
to continue to show the breakdown of the carrying amount of these 
right-of-use assets across the respective asset classes.

Right-of-use assets
The Group primarily leases buildings with terms mostly ranging from 
one to 20 years. The leases generally provide the Group with the right 
to renewal at which time the lease terms are renegotiated. The Group 
applies the following practical expedients permitted by the standard:

Corridor land and buildings
Aurizon Network Pty Ltd, leases corridor land and buildings owned by 
the State. The leases expire on 30 June 2109 and rental is $1 per year if 
demanded. As the rental is only payable if demanded, no lease liability is 
recognised on balance sheet for corridor land and buildings.

(i)  Amounts recognised in the consolidated balance sheet
The balance sheet includes the following amounts relating to leased assets:

Right-of-use assets

Buildings

Equipment

Other leased assets2

Coal infrastructure

Corridor land

Buildings

Total leased assets

Lease liabilities

Current

Non-current

2020 
$m

88.8

5.6

94.4

1 July 
2019 
$m1

101.7

0.5

102.2

4,371.4

4,388.5

25.8

1.9

25.5

2.1

4,399.1

4,416.1

4,493.5

4,518.3

17.4

125.4

142.8

14.1

128.8

142.9

1   Refer to note 34 for details regarding the impact of changes in the Group’s 

accounting policies following the adoption of the new leasing standard from 
1 July 2019

2   Reflects the assets of the CQCN 

(ii)  Amounts recognised in consolidated income statement
The consolidated income statement includes the following amounts 
relating to right-of-use assets:

Right-of-use assets

Buildings

Equipment

 › Payments for short-term leases of less than 12 months are recognised 

as an expense in profit or loss as incurred; and

Other leased assets

Coal infrastructure

 › Payments for leases for which the underlying asset is of a low value 

Buildings

are recognised as an expense in profit or loss as incurred.

Coal infrastructure
The Group leases infrastructure assets including:

 › CQCN from the State; and
 › North Coast Line owned by Queensland Rail.

The infrastructure assets are leased to Aurizon Network Pty Ltd. The 
term of each lease is 99 years, expiring 30 June 2109, at a rental of $1 per 
year if demanded. The State and Queensland Rail (Infrastructure Lessors) 
have an option to extend the infrastructure leases by a further 99 years, 
with at least 20 years notice prior to expiry of the existing term. As the 
rental is only payable if demanded, no lease liability is recognised on 
balance sheet for coal infrastructure assets.

Total leased assets depreciation

Interest expense (included in net finance costs)

Expense relating to short-term leases 
(included in consumables)

Expenses relating to variable lease 
payments not included in lease liabilities 
(included in consumables)

The total cash outflow for leases during the financial year was $25.9 million.

67

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

13.5

0.7

14.2

–

–

–

245.7

240.6

0.2

245.9

260.1

5.1

1.4

4.8

0.2

240.8

240.8

–

–

–

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  9   Property, plant and equipment  

(continued)

Gains and losses 

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds 
with carrying amount. These are included in profit or loss.

(b)  Recognition and measurement

(i)  Property, plant and equipment

Carrying value
Property, plant and equipment (including leased coal infrastructure, 
corridor land and buildings) are stated at historical cost, less any 
accumulated depreciation or impairment. Historical costs include 
expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the 
items, gains or losses on qualifying cash flow hedges of foreign 
currency purchases transferred from equity and capitalised interest.

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. All repairs 
and maintenance are charged to profit or loss during the financial 
period in which they are incurred.

Depreciation
Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis, except for motor 
vehicles included in plant and equipment for which depreciation is 
calculated on a diminishing value method. Straight-line allocates the 
cost of an item of property, plant and equipment net of residual values 
over the expected useful life of each asset. Estimates of remaining useful 
life and residual values are reviewed and adjusted, if appropriate, on an 
annual basis.

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

The depreciation rates used for each class of assets are:

Infrastructure, including:

- Tracks

- Track turnouts

- Ballast

- Civil works

- Bridges

- Electrification

- Field signals

Buildings

Rollingstock, including:

- Locomotives

- Locomotives componentisation

- Wagons

- Wagon componentisation

Plant and equipment

8 – 50 years

20 – 25 years

8 – 20 years

20 – 100 years

30 – 100 years

20 – 50 years

15 – 40 years

10 – 40 years

25 – 35 years

8 – 12 years

25 – 35 years

10 – 17 years

3 – 20 years

An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable 
amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated 
recoverable amount.

(ii)  Leases

Until 30 June 2019, leases of property, plant and equipment were 
classified as either finance or operating leases (refer to note 33(d)). 
From 1 July 2019, leases are recognised as a right-of-use asset and a 
corresponding liability at the date at which the leased asset is available 
for use by the Group. Where the Group is a sub-lessor and the sub-lease 
is for the duration of the head lease, the right-of-use asset recognised 
from the head leases are derecognised and a lease receivable equal to 
the present value of future lease payments receivable is recognised.

Assets and liabilities arising from a lease are initially measured on a 
present value basis. Lease liabilities include the net present value of 
the following lease payments:

 › fixed payments (including in-substance fixed payments), less any 

lease incentives receivable;

 › variable lease payments that are based on an index or a rate; and
 › payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term 

reflects the lessee exercising that option.

The lease payments are discounted using the Group’s incremental 
borrowing rate, being the rate that the Group would have to pay to 
borrow the funds necessary to obtain an asset of similar value in a 
similar economic environment with similar terms and conditions.

Right-of-use assets are measured at cost comprising the following:

 › the amount of the initial measurement of lease liability;
 › any lease payments made at or before the commencement date less 

any lease incentives received; and

 › any initial direct costs.

Right-of-use assets are depreciated over the shorter of the asset’s useful 
life and the lease term on a straight-line basis. Depreciation is calculated 
using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life which varies 
from two to 20 years.

(iii)  Impairment of assets

Assets that are subject to depreciation and amortisation are reviewed 
for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate 
that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Assets that have 
previously been impaired are reviewed for impairment reversal whenever 
events or changes in circumstance indicate that the recoverable amount 
may exceed the carrying amount.

An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s 
carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable 
amount is the higher of an assets fair value less cost of disposal and 
value in use.

For the purpose of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the 
lowest levels for which there are separately identified cash flows 
(cash generating units).

68

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–2010 Intangible assets

2020

Opening net book amount

Additions

Transfers between asset classes

Acquisition of subsidiary (note 25)

Amortisation

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2020

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book amount

2019

Opening net book amount

Additions

Transfers between asset classes

Amortisation

Impairment

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2019

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book amount

Recognition and measurement 

(i)  Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the 
fair value of the Group’s share of net identifiable assets of the acquired 
subsidiary or business at the date of the acquisition. Goodwill on 
acquisitions of subsidiaries is included in intangible assets. Goodwill 
is not amortised. Instead, it 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. Any impairment is recognised as an expense and is not 
subsequently reversed.

Goodwill is allocated to cash generating units for the purpose of 
impairment testing. The allocation is made to those cash generating 
units or group of cash generating units that are expected to benefit 
from the business combination in which the goodwill arose.

Goodwill 
$m

Software 
$m

Software under 
development 
$m

–

–

–

5.2

–

5.2

5.2

–

5.2

158.2

–

29.7

–

(27.8)

160.1

371.3

(211.2)

160.1

18.7

33.3

(29.8)

–

–

22.2

22.2

–

22.2

Software 
$m

Software under 
development
$m

Key customer 
contracts
$m

126.6

-

57.5

(25.7)

(0.2)

158.2

344.1

(185.9)

158.2

46.0

32.3

(59.6)

–

–

18.7

18.7

–

18.7

–

–

–

–

–

–

3.0

(3.0)

–

Total 
$m

176.9

33.3

(0.1)

5.2

(27.8)

187.5

398.7

(211.2)

187.5

Total 
$m

172.6

32.3

(2.1)

(25.7)

(0.2)

176.9

365.8

(188.9)

176.9

(ii)  Software
Costs incurred in developing products or systems and costs incurred 
in acquiring software and licenses that will contribute to future period 
financial benefits through revenue generation and/or cost reduction are 
capitalised to software and systems. Costs capitalised include external 
direct costs of materials and service, employee costs and an appropriate 
portion of relevant overheads. Software development costs include only 
those costs directly attributable to the development phase and are only 
recognised following completion of technical feasibility and where the 
Group has an intention and ability to use the asset.

Software is stated at historical cost, less any accumulated amortisation 
or impairment. Amortisation is calculated using the straight-line method 
over the estimated useful life which varies from three to 11 years.

69

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT   
11  Other assets

13  Provisions

Current

Contract assets

Lease receivable

Other current assets

Non-current

Contract assets

Lease receivable

Other non-current assets

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

1.3

6.5

7.0

14.8

21.9

48.6

–

70.5

–

–

6.2

6.2

–

–

8.6

8.6

Current

Employee benefits (a)

Provision for insurance claims

Litigation and workers compensation provision 

Other provisions

Non-current

Employee benefits (a)

Litigation and workers compensation provision

Decommissioning/make good

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

229.3

8.6

20.9

12.5

271.3

13.4

9.7

2.9

38.0

–

64.0

335.3

2020 
$m

67.1

112.0

63.6

242.7

234.7

1.4

33.6

3.3

273.0

12.6

10.9

3.0

34.2

2.2

62.9

335.9

2019 
$m

55.4

110.5

81.4

247.3

Land rehabilitation

Other provisions

Total provisions

(a)   Employee benefits 

Annual leave

Long service leave

Other1

1   Included in other employee benefits are short-term incentives, retirement 
allowances and termination benefits. As well as payroll tax on leave and 
short-term incentive plans. 

The current provision for employee benefits includes accrued annual 
leave, leave loading, retirement allowances, long service leave, short-term 
incentive plan and redundancy provision. Included in long service leave 
are all unconditional entitlements where employees have completed 
the required period of service and also a provision for the probability 
that employees will reach the required period of service. 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 
$105.6 million (2019: $90.6 million) that is not expected to be taken 
or paid within the next 12 months.

Details of employee benefits

(i)  Short-term obligations
Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits and 
accumulating annual leave and leave loading that are expected to be 
settled wholly within 12 months after the end of the period in which 
the employees render the related service, are recognised in respect 
of employees’ services up to the end of the reporting period and are 
measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are 
settled. The short-term employee benefit obligations are recognised 
in the provision for employee benefits.

(a)  Contract assets
Refer to note 2(b) for further information relating to contract assets.

(b)  Lease receivable
Lease receivables represent the present value of future lease payments 
receivable on sub-lease arrangements where the expiry of the term of 
the sub-lease is the same as the head lease. Refer to note 34 for details 
regarding the impact of changes in the Group’s accounting policies 
following the adoption of the new leasing standard from 1 July 2019.

Minimum lease payments receivable on sub-leases are as follows:

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than five years

Later than five years

Less: Unearned interest income 

Total lease receivables

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

8.2

32.9

22.6

63.7

(8.6)

55.1

–

–

–

–

–

–

Interest income (included in net finance costs) relating to sub-lease 
arrangements during the financial year was $1.9 million. Income relating 
to variable lease payments received (included in other revenue) during 
the financial year was $7.6 million.

The total cash inflow for sub-leases in the financial year was $15.2 million.

12  Trade and other payables

Current liabilities

Trade payables

Other payables

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

289.0

34.0

323.0

297.5

109.2

406.7

Other payables in the 2019 financial year included a payable of 
$81.3 million (including GAPE) in respect of the over-collection 
of access revenue. This was settled and there is no similar payable 
included in the 2020 financial year.

Recognition and measurement
Trade and other payables 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 45 days or within 
the terms agreed with the supplier.

70

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–2013  Provisions (continued)

Details of employee benefits (continued)

(ii)  Other long-term employee benefit obligations
The liabilities for retirement allowance and long service leave that are 
not expected to be settled wholly within 12 months after the end of the 
period in which the employees render the related service, are measured 
as the present value of expected future payments to be made in respect 
of services provided by employees up to the end of the reporting period 
using the projected unit credit method. Remeasurements as a result 
of experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are 
recognised in profit or loss.

The obligations are presented as current liabilities in the balance sheet 
if the entity does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement 
for at least 12 months after the reporting period, regardless of when 
the actual settlement is expected to occur. Benefits falling due more 
than 12 months after the end of the reporting period are discounted to 
present value.

(iii)  Short-term incentive plans
The Group recognises a liability for short-term incentive plans based 
on a formula that takes into consideration the Group and individual 
key performance indicators. The Group recognises a provision where 
contractually obliged or where there is a past practice that has created 
a constructive obligation.

(iv)  Termination benefits
Termination benefits are payable when the Group decides to terminate 
the employment, or when an employee accepts redundancy in exchange 
for these benefits. The Group recognises termination benefits at 
the earlier of the following dates: (a) when the Group can no longer 
withdraw the offer of those benefits; and (b) when the Group recognises 
costs for a restructuring that is within the scope of AASB 137 Provisions, 
Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets and involves the payment 
of termination benefits. Benefits falling due more than 12 months after 
the end of the reporting period are discounted to present value.

(v)  Superannuation
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 at least every three years. The latest 
valuation was completed as at 30 June 2019 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 QSuper Defined Benefit 
Fund. The State of Queensland has provided Aurizon with an indemnity 
if the Treasurer requires Aurizon to pay any amounts required to meet 
any potential deficit/surplus. The indemnity is subject to Aurizon not 
taking any unilateral action, other than with the approval of the State 
that causes a significant increase in unfunded liabilities.

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.

Recognition and measurement
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 pre-tax discount rates for employee benefits 
are based on Australian corporate bond rates and range between 0.6% 
and 2.5% (2019: 1.5% and 2.7%).

To measure the estimated costs to remediate contaminated land an 
inflation rate of 1.6% (2019: 1.9%) has been applied, based on remediation 
dates ranging between five to 40 years. A weighted average discount 
rate of 1.2% (2019: 2.0%) has been used in determining present value, 
based on the interest rate which reflects the maturity profile of the 
liability. The increase in the provision resulting from the passage of time 
is recognised in finance costs.

71

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  13  Provisions (continued)

14 Other liabilities

Recognition and measurement (continued)
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.

A provision is made for the estimated liability for workers’ compensation 
and litigation claims. Claims are assessed separately for common law, 
statutory and asbestos claims. 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 are also included in the estimate.

Current

Contract liabilities

Income received in advance

Lease liabilities

Other current liabilities

A provision for onerous contracts is recognised by the Group when 
the unavoidable costs of meeting the obligations under the contract 
exceed the expected economic benefits to be received. It is measured 
at the present value of management’s best estimate of the expenditure 
required to settle the present obligation at the reporting period.

Non-current

Contract liabilities

Lease liabilities

Other non-current liabilities

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

28.5

36.9

17.4

18.5

101.3

150.4

125.4

1.5

277.3

28.2

36.7

–

10.2

75.1

165.0

–

40.0

205.0

(a)  Contract liabilities
Refer to note 2(b) for further information relating to contract liabilities.

(b)  Income received in advance
Income received in advance primarily represents deposits received.

(c)  Lease liabilities
Lease liabilities represent the present value of future lease payments. 
Refer to note 34 for details regarding the impact of changes in the 
Group’s accounting policies following the adoption of the new leasing 
standard from 1 July 2019.

Minimum lease payments are as follows:

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than five 
years

Later than five years

Less: Discounted using Group’s incremental 
borrowing rate

Total lease liabilities

2020 
$m

22.3

72.6

75.8

170.7

(27.9)

142.8

2019 
$m

–

–

–

–

–

–

72

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
Capital and financial  
risk management

IN THIS SECTION

Capital and financial risk management provides information 
about the capital management practices of the Group and 
shareholder returns for the year, and discusses the Group’s 
exposure to various financial risks, how these affect the Group’s 
financial position and performance, and what the Group does to 
manage these risks.

15  Capital risk management 

16  Dividends 

17  Equity and reserves 

18  Borrowings 

19  Financial risk management 

20  Derivative financial instruments 

Page 74

Page 74

Page 74

Page 76

Page 76

Page 83

FINANCIAL REPORT  

73

15 Capital risk management

(b)   Dividends not recognised at the end of the reporting period

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
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. During 
the financial year, the Board endorsed the implementation 
of a simplified legal structure to optimise the Company’s 
balance sheet and provide additional funding capacity for 
the Group. The Group and the Company monitor its capital 
structure by reference to its gearing ratio.

Net debt consists of borrowings (both current and non-current) less cash 
and cash equivalents. Net debt excludes lease liabilities (included in other 
liabilities) recognised on adoption of the new lease accounting standard 
effective from 1 July 2019. Net gearing ratio is defined as Net debt divided 
by Equity plus Net debt. Net debt and Net gearing ratio are measures of 
the Group’s indebtedness and provides an indicator of the balance sheet 
strength. An alternative Net gearing ratio is also disclosed to include 
derivative financial instruments used to hedge market risk on borrowings 
and is reconciled in the Non-IFRS financial information on page 108.

Total borrowings

Notes

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

18

3,607.2

3,369.8

Less: cash and cash equivalents

(29.3)

(25.2)

Since 30 June 2020, the Directors have 
recommended the payment of a final dividend 
of 13.7 cents per fully paid ordinary share 70% 
franked (2019: 12.4 cents 70% franked). The 
aggregate amount of the proposed dividend 
expected to be paid on 21 September 2020 
out of retained earnings, but not recognised 
as a liability at year end is:

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

262.3

246.8

(c)  Franked dividends
The franked portions of the final dividends recommended after 30 June 
2020 will be franked out of existing franking credits or out of franking 
credits arising from the payment of income tax in the period ending 30 June 
2021. The amounts are calculated from the balance of the franking account 
as at the end of the reporting period, adjusted for franking credits that will 
arise from the payment of the amount of the provision for income tax.

Franking credits available for subsequent 
reporting periods based on a tax rate of 30% 
(2019: 30%)

17  Equity and reserves

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

92.6

64.9

Net debt

Total equity

Total capital

Gearing ratio

Alternative gearing ratio

16 Dividends

(a)  Ordinary shares

3,577.9

3,344.6

4,357.7

4,677.4

7,935.6

8,022.0

45.1%

43.3%

41.7%

40.0%

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
Issued capital represents the amount of consideration 
received for securities issued by Aurizon.

When the Company purchases its own shares, as a result 
of the share-based payment plans and share buy-back, 
the consideration paid, including any directly attributable 
incremental costs (net of income taxes), is recognised 
directly in equity.

Interim dividend for the year ended 30 June 
2020 of 13.7 cents 70% franked (2019: 11.4 cents 
70% franked) per share, paid 23 March 2020

Final dividend for the year ended 30 June 2019 
of 12.4 cents 70% franked (2018: 13.1 cents 60% 
franked) per share, paid 23 September 2019

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

(a)  Contributed equity

(i) 

Issued capital

267.0

226.9

246.8

513.8

260.7

487.6

2020
Shares
‘000

2019
Shares
‘000

2020
$m

2019
$m

Ordinary shares
– fully paid

1,914,643

1,990,128

506.6

906.6

(ii)  Movements in ordinary share capital

Details

At 1 July 2018

At 30 June 2019

On-market share buy-back

At 30 June 2020

Number 
of shares 
‘000

1,990,128

1,990,128

$m

906.6

906.6

(75,485)

(400.0)

1,914,643

506.6

Ordinary shares have no par value and the Company 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.

74

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–2017  Equity and reserves (continued)

(b)  Reserves

Balance at 1 July 2019

Fair value gains/(losses) taken to equity

Fair value (gains)/losses transferred to property, plant 
and equipment

Deferred tax

Other comprehensive income

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners

Buy-back of ordinary shares

Share-based payments expense

Employee share trust to employees

Deferred tax

Balance at 30 June 2020 

Balance at 1 July 2018

Fair value gains/(losses) taken to equity

Fair value (gains)/losses transferred to property, plant 
and equipment

Deferred tax

Other comprehensive income

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners

Share-based payments expense

Employee share trust to employees

Deferred tax

Balance at 30 June 2019 

Share 
of an 
associate’s 
OCI
$m

(1.8)

Notes

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

31(b)

Cash flow 
hedges 
$m

Share- 
based 
payments 
$m

Capital 
reserves 
$m

Total 
$m

(46.6)

(39.3)

3.6

10.7

(25.0)

–

–

–

–

(0.6)

3,467.5

3,418.5

–

–

–

–

–

5.9

(3.2)

(0.7)

1.4

–

–

–

–

(0.4)

–

–

–

(39.3)

3.6

10.7

(25.0)

(0.4)

5.9

(3.2)

(0.7)

3,467.1

3,395.1

(1.8)

(71.6)

Share 
of an 
associate’s 
OCI
$m

(1.8)

Notes

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

31(b)

Cash flow 
hedges 
$m

Share- 
based 
payments 
$m

Capital 
reserves 
$m

Total 
$m

(11.2)

(52.2)

1.6

15.2

(35.4)

–

–

–

5.6

3,467.5

3,460.1

–

–

–

–

(7.2)

(0.6)

1.6

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(52.2)

1.6

15.2

(35.4)

(7.2)

(0.6)

1.6

(1.8)

(46.6)

(0.6)

3,467.5

3,418.5

Nature and purpose of reserves

Cash flow hedges
The hedging reserve is used to record the effective portion of gains or 
losses on hedging instruments that are designated cash flow hedges and 
are recognised in other comprehensive income. Amounts are recognised 
in the income statement when the associated hedged transaction affects 
the income statement.

Share-based payments
Share-based payments represent the fair value of share-based 
remuneration provided to employees.

Capital reserves
Capital reserves represent capital contributions from Queensland 
State Government pre-IPO less cumulative share buy-backs and 
transaction costs charged to this account.

75

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  Establishment costs have been capitalised and are amortised over 
the life of the related borrowing less one year, with the expectation 
that borrowings will be refinanced within the year prior to maturity.

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 year and the Group does not expect 
to repay within 12 months.

Borrowings are removed from the balance sheet when the obligation 
specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired.

(ii)  Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs which are directly attributable to the construction 
of a qualifying asset are capitalised during the period of time that is 
required to complete the asset for its intended use. The capitalisation 
rate used to determine the amount of borrowing costs to be capitalised 
is the weighted average interest rate applicable to the Group’s 
outstanding borrowings, excluding working capital facilities, during 
the year of 4.9% (2019: 4.6%).

19 Financial risk management

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
Exposure to market risk (including foreign currency risk and 
interest rate risk), credit risk and liquidity risk arises in the 
normal course of the Group’s business. A central treasury 
department oversees financial risk under Board approved 
Treasury Policies that cover specific areas related to these 
exposures, as well as the use of derivative and non-derivative 
financial instruments.

Compliance with the Board approved Treasury Policies is 
monitored on an ongoing basis, including regular reporting 
to the Board. Trading for speculation is prohibited.

(a)  Market risk

Market risk is the risk that adverse movements in foreign exchange 
and/or interest rates will affect the Group’s financial performance or 
the value of its holdings of financial instruments. The Group monitors 
and measures market risk relative to risk limits established in the Board 
approved Treasury Policies. 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 commercial transactions and 
recognised assets and liabilities that are denominated in or related to a 
currency that is not the Group’s functional currency. The Group’s foreign 
exchange exposure relates largely to the Euro (€) denominated Medium-
Term Notes maturing September 2024 (EMTN 1) and June 2026 (EMTN 
2). The Group also has exposure to movements in foreign currency 
exchange rates through anticipated purchases of parts and equipment.

18 Borrowings

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
The Group borrows money through bank debt facilities and 
through the issuance of debt securities in capital markets.

The carrying amount of the Group’s borrowings is as follows:

Current – Unsecured

Medium-term notes

Bank debt facilities

Non-current – Unsecured

Medium-term notes

Bank debt facilities

Capitalised borrowing costs

Total borrowings

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

524.6

133.0

657.6

–

149.0

149.0

2,249.8

2,670.0

710.0

(10.2)

560.0

(9.2)

2,949.6

3,220.8

3,607.2

3,369.8

The Group’s bank debt facilities contain financial covenants. Both the 
bank debt facilities and medium-term notes contain general undertakings 
including negative pledge clauses which restrict the amount of security 
that the Group can provide over assets in certain circumstances. The 
Group has complied with all required covenants and undertakings 
throughout the reporting period.

The Group manages its exposure to interest rate risk as set out in 
note 19(a). Risk is managed in accordance with Board approved 
Treasury Policies.

During the year Aurizon Network Pty Ltd:

 › Reduced the capacity of the syndicated bank debt facility maturing 

July 2021 from $490.0 million to $380.0 million in July 2019;

 › Issued a long term $82.0 million fixed rate Medium Term Note maturing 

22 March 2030 in September 2019; and

 › Cancelled existing syndicated bank debt facility maturing July 

2021 and October 2022 and replaced them with bilateral bank debt 
facilities totalling $1,300.0 million maturing June 2023 – June 2025 
in June 2020.

$525.0 million Medium Term Note maturing October 2020 (AMTN 1) 
is classified as a current liability and the Group has sufficient bank debt 
facility capacity to repay the Medium Term Note.

Details of the Group’s financing arrangements and exposure to risks 
arising from current and non-current borrowings are set out in note 19(c).

Recognition and measurement

(i)  Borrowings
Borrowings are 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.

76

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
Risk management
The Group manages cash flow interest rate risk by using interest rate 
swaps. CCIRS have been put in place to remove any exposure to Euro 
interest rates and associated foreign exchange from the EMTN issuances 
which in effect convert the debt to variable AUD.

Interest rate swaps currently in place cover approximately 93% (2019: 
99%) of the variable rate exposure. The weighted average maturity of 
outstanding swaps is approximately 2.0 years (2019: 2.7 years).

The International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) agreements 
held with counterparties allow for the netting of payments and receipts 
with respect to settlements for interest rate swap transactions.

During the year, the net realised loss arising from interest rate hedging 
activities for the Group was $25.9 million (2019: $2.2 million) as a result 
of market interest rates closing lower than the average hedged rate. 
The total realised loss represents the effective portion of the hedges 
which have been recognised in interest expense.

(iii)  Sensitivity on interest rate risk
The following table summarises the gain/(loss) impact of interest rate 
changes, relating to existing borrowings and financial instruments, 
on net profit and equity before tax. The effect on equity is based on 
the financial instruments notional principal. For the purpose of this 
disclosure, sensitivity analysis is isolated to a 100 basis points increase/
decrease in interest rates (with the decrease in interest rates limited to 
a reduction to 0.0% where the sensitivity would have reduced interest 
rates to negative), assuming hedge designations and effectiveness and 
all other variables remain constant.

 Effect on profit 
 (before tax)

 Effect on equity 
 (before tax)

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

1.6

0.2

(69.8)

(62.4)

(1.6)

(0.2)

68.1

60.4

100 bps movement 
in interest rates

100 bps decrease 
in interest rates

100 bps increase 
in interest rates

19  Financial risk management 

(continued)

(a)  Market risk (continued)

(i)  Foreign exchange risk (continued)

Risk management
Cross currency interest rate swap agreements
To mitigate the risk of adverse movements in foreign exchange 
and interest rates in relation to borrowings denominated in foreign 
currency, the Group enters into cross currency interest rate swap 
(CCIRS) agreements through which it replaces the related foreign 
currency principal and interest liability payments with Australian 
Dollar principal and interest payments. These cross currency interest 
rate swap agreements are designated into cash flow and fair value 
hedge relationships.

Foreign exchange contracts
The Group uses forward contracts to manage its foreign exchange 
risk arising from anticipated purchases of parts and equipment. 
These contracts are hedging highly probable forecast foreign currency 
exposures and are denominated in the same currency as the highly 
probable future purchases. The forward contracts are designated as 
cash flow hedges and are timed to mature when foreign currency 
payments are scheduled to be made. 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.

At the reporting date, the Group’s exposure to foreign exchange risk 
after taking into consideration hedges of foreign currency borrowings 
and forecast foreign currency transactions is not considered material.

(ii)  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 cash flows are subject 
to changes in market interest rates.

The Group’s main interest rate risk arises from long-term borrowings 
which expose the Group to interest rate risk.

At reporting date, the Group has exposure to the following variable 
rate borrowings and interest rate swaps:

30 June 2020

30 June 2019

Weighted 
average 
interest 
rate 
%

Weighted 
average 
interest 
rate 
%

Balance 
$m

Balance 
$m

4.5

2,331.8

4.5

2,197.8

4.4

(2,175.0)

4.3

(2,175.0)

156.8

22.8

Variable rate 
exposure

Interest rate 
swaps (including 
debt credit 
margins)

Net exposure to 
interest rate risk

77

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  19 Financial risk management (continued)

(a)  Market risk (continued)

(iv)  Effects of hedge accounting on the consolidated balance sheet and consolidated income statement
The impact of hedging instruments designated in hedging relationships on the consolidated balance sheet of the Group is as follows:

  Notional amount

Carrying amount assets/
(liability) refer to note 20 

Change in fair value  
used for measuring 
ineffectiveness for the year

2020

2019

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

Cash flow hedges

Foreign exchange risk

Forward contracts

Forward contracts

Interest rate risk

US$4.0m

US$11.0m

€13.0m

€13.0m

Interest rate swaps (current)

A$2,175.0m

A$2,175.0m

Interest rate swaps (forward dated)1

A$2,550.0m

A$1,225.0m

Foreign exchange and interest rate risks

CCIRS – EMTN 1

CCIRS – EMTN 2

Fair value hedges

Interest rate risk

Interest rate swaps – AMTN 2

Interest rate swaps – AMTN 3

Foreign exchange and interest rate risks

CCIRS – EMTN 1

CCIRS – EMTN 2

€500.0m

€500.0m

€500.0m

€500.0m

–

A$82.0m

–

–

€500.0m

€500.0m

€500.0m

€500.0m

(0.7)

(0.8)

(37.9)

(41.2)

0.2

(6.8)

–

3.2

155.1

69.1

0.5

0.3

(41.4)

(7.7)

0.9

(4.3)

–

–

150.7

49.4

(1.2)

(1.1)

3.5

(33.5)

(0.7)

(2.5)

–

3.4

2.9

15.7

(0.7)

(0.2)

(45.7)

(7.7)

(0.3)

(0.5)

(3.3)

–

44.3

62.8

1  Forward dated interest rate swaps entered into commencing June 2021 on maturity of current interest rate swaps in June – August 2021 

The impact of hedged items designated in hedging relationships on the consolidated balance sheet is as follows:

Cash flow hedges (before tax)

Foreign exchange risk

Firm commitments

Interest rate risk

Forecast floating interest payments

Foreign exchange and interest rate risks

EMTN 1

EMTN 2

Cash flow hedge reserve1 

Change in fair value used for 
measuring ineffectiveness 
for the year 

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

1.5

79.1

5.2

16.5

(0.8)

2.3

49.1

4.7

13.8

30.0

0.7

2.5

0.9

53.4

0.3

0.5

1   Cash flow hedge reserve includes the cumulative impact of cross currency basis relating to EMTN 1 and EMTN 2 of $19.3 million for the financial year ended 30 June 

2020 (2019: $19.1 million)

78

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
19 Financial risk management (continued)

(a)  Market risk (continued)

(iv)   Effects of hedge accounting on the consolidated balance sheet and consolidated income statement (continued)

Carrying amount1

Accumulated fair value 
adjustment

Change in fair value  
used for measuring 
ineffectiveness for the year

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

(85.4)

–

(3.4)

–

(3.4)

–

Fair value hedges (before tax)

Interest rate risk

AMTN 3

Foreign exchange and interest rate risks

EMTN 1

EMTN 2

(873.9)

(863.2)

(1,737.1)

Total borrowings (subject to fair value hedges)

(1,822.5)

1  Carrying amount excludes the effect of discounts 

The above hedging relationships affected other comprehensive income 
as follows: 

Cash flow hedges (before tax)
Foreign exchange risk
Forward contracts

Interest rate risk
Interest rate swaps

Foreign exchange and interest rate risk
CCIRS

Hedging gain/(loss)  
recognised in  
comprehensive income

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

(2.3)

(0.8)

(30.0)

(53.4)

(3.4)
(35.7)

3.6
(50.6)

There was no material ineffectiveness related to cash flow hedges and 
fair value hedges recognised in the consolidated income statement 
during the financial year.

(b)  Credit risk
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 received from certain parties.

(870.9)

(847.4)

(1,718.3)

(1,718.3)

(163.2)

(85.0)

(248.2)

(251.6)

(160.3)

(69.2)

(229.5)

(229.5)

(2.9)

(15.7)

(18.6)

(22.0)

(44.3)

(62.8)

(107.1)

(107.1)

Historically, there has been no significant change in customers’ credit 
risk and the lifetime expected loss assessment of the Group remains 
unchanged. The Group considers the probability of default upon initial 
recognition of asset and whether there has been a significant increase 
in credit risk on an ongoing basis throughout the reporting period. 
To assess whether there is a significant increase in credit risk, the 
Group compares the risk of a default occurring on the asset as at the 
reporting date with the risk of default as at the date of initial recognition. 
It considers available reasonable and supportive forward-looking 
information. The following indicators are considered:

 › External credit rating (as far as available)
 › Actual or expected significant adverse changes in business, financial 

or economic conditions that are expected to cause a significant change 
to the borrower’s ability to meet its obligations

 › Significant changes in the value of the collateral supporting the obligation 

or in the quality of third-party guarantees or credit enhancements
 › The financial position of customers, past experience and other factors 

(macroeconomic information)

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 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 19(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 or where 
appropriate security is held. 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 Policies which restricts the 
Group’s exposure to financial institutions by credit rating band. 
The Treasury Policies limit 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.

79

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT   
19 Financial risk management (continued) 

(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 the following arrangements at the end of the financial year:

Aurizon Finance Pty Ltd

Working capital facility

Bilateral facility

Aurizon Network Pty Ltd

Working capital facility

Syndicated facility2

Syndicated facility2

Bilaterial facility2

Bilaterial facility2

Bilaterial facility2

AMTN 1

AMTN 23

AMTN 34

EMTN 15

EMTN 25

Utilised1

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

Facility limit
2020 
$m

2019 
$m

Security

Maturity

Unsecured

Dec-20

Unsecured

Nov-23

83.3

290.0

373.3

Unsecured

Dec-20

67.5

Unsecured

Jul-21

Unsecured

Oct-22

–

–

Unsecured

Jun-23

420.0

Unsecured

Jun-24

Unsecured

Jun-25

Unsecured

Oct-20

Unsecured

Jun-24

Unsecured

Mar-30

Unsecured

Sept-24

Unsecured

Jun-26

–

–

525.0

425.0

82.0

710.6

778.2

84.3

90.0

174.3

82.6

470.0

–

–

–

–

525.0

425.0

–

710.6

778.2

150.0

450.0

600.0

100.0

–

–

850.0

300.0

150.0

525.0

425.0

82.0

710.6

778.2

150.0

450.0

600.0

100.0

490.0

500.0

–

–

–

525.0

425.0

–

710.6

778.2

Total Group financing arrangements

3,008.3

2,991.4

3,920.8

3,528.8

3,381.6

3,165.7

4,520.8

4,128.8

1 

2 

 Amount utilised includes bank guarantees of $17.8 million (2019: $17.9 million) and excludes capitalised borrowing costs of $10.2 million (2019: $9.2 million) and 
discounts on Medium-Term Notes of $7.1 million (2019: $10.3 million)

 Aurizon Network Pty Ltd cancelled existing syndicated bank debt facility maturing July 2021 and October 2022 and replaced them with bilateral bank debt facilities 
totalling $1,300.0 million maturing between June 2023 – June 2025 in June 2020

3   Amount utilised excludes accumulated fair value adjustment of $9.5 million (2019: $11.9 million) which will be recognised in profit or loss over the remaining term of the 

AMTN 2 bond

4   AMTN 3 amount utilised excludes accumulated fair value adjustment of $3.4 million (2019: $nil)

5   EMTN 1 amount utilised excludes accumulated fair value adjustments of $163.2 million (2019: $160.3 million). EMTN 2 amount utilised excludes accumulated fair value 

adjustments $85.0 million (2019: $69.2 million) 

Within the working capital facilities, the Group has access to financial accommodation arrangements totalling $250.0 million (2019: $250.0 million) 
which may be utilised in the form of short-term working capital funding and the issuance of bank guarantees. At the end of the financial year, the 
Group utilised $17.8 million (2019: $17.9 million) for financial bank guarantees.

The Group has complied with all debt covenants during the 2020 and 2019 financial years.

The following table summarises the contractual timing of undiscounted cash flows, including estimated interest payments, of financial liabilities and 
derivative instruments, expressed in AUD. The contractual amount assumes current interest rates and foreign exchange rates estimated using forward 
curves applicable at the end of the reporting period.

80

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
19 Financial risk management (continued) 

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

2020
Non-derivatives
Trade payables
Borrowings1
Financial guarantees
Lease liabilities2

Derivatives
Interest rate swaps
Foreign exchange contracts

(inflow)
outflow

CCIRS – EMTN 11
CCIRS – EMTN 21

2019

Non-derivatives

Trade payables

Borrowings1

Financial guarantees

Derivatives

Interest rate swaps

Foreign exchange contracts

(inflow)

outflow

CCIRS – EMTN 11

CCIRS – EMTN 21

1  Borrowings exclude the effect of cross currency interest rate swap derivatives

2  Lease liabilities are included in other liabilities, refer to note 14 

Less  
than  
1 year 
$m

Between 
1 and 5 
years
$m

Over 5 
years
$m

Total 
contractual 
cash flows
$m

Carrying 
amount 
(assets)/
liabilities1
$m

323.0
745.9
17.8
22.3
1,109.0

43.1
–
(1.5)
0.2
(2.4)
6.2
45.6

406.7

104.4

17.9

529.0

20.1

–

(0.5)

0.2

4.5

14.0

38.3

–
2,207.7
–
72.6
2,280.3

36.9
–
(0.3)
–
(123.3)
33.6
(53.1)

–
938.4
–
75.8
1,014.2

(2.2)
–
–
–
–
(28.6)
(30.8)

323.0
3,892.0
17.8
170.7
4,403.5

77.8
–
(1.8)
0.2
(125.7)
11.2
(38.3)

323.0
3,607.2
–
142.8
4,073.0

75.9
1.5
–
–
(155.3)
(62.3)
(140.2)

–

2,779.5

–

–

835.7

–

406.7

3,719.6

17.9

406.7

3,369.8

–

2,779.5

835.7

4,144.2

3,776.5

30.4

–

–

–

(90.0)

75.3

15.7

–

–

–

–

–

(13.0)

(13.0)

50.5

–

(0.5)

0.2

(85.5)

76.3

41.0

49.1

(0.8)

–

–

(151.6)

(45.1)

(148.4)

81

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  Notes to the consolidated financial statements
30 June 2020 (continued)

Carrying 
amount

Fair value

Notes

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

Financial assets 
carried at fair value
Foreign exchange 
contracts

Interest rate swaps – 
AMTN 3

CCIRS – EMTN 1

CCIRS – EMTN 2

Financial assets carried  
at amortised cost
Cash and cash 
equivalents

Trade and other 
receivables

Financial liabilities 
carried at fair value
Foreign exchange 
contracts

Interest rate swaps

20

20

20

20

0.2

0.8

0.2

0.8

3.2

155.3

62.3

221.0

–

151.6

45.1

197.5

3.2

155.3

62.3

221.0

–

151.6

45.1

197.5

29.3

25.2

29.3

25.2

7

460.1

489.4

481.8

507.0

460.1

489.4

481.8

507.0

20

20

(1.7)

(79.1)

(80.8)

–

(49.1)

(49.1)

(1.7)

(79.1)

(80.8)

–

(49.1)

(49.1)

Financial liabilities carried at 
amortised cost
Trade and other 
payables

Borrowings

Off-balance sheet

Unrecognised financial 
assets
Third party 
guarantees

Bank guarantees

Insurance company 
guarantees

Unrecognised 
financial liabilities

Bank guarantees

12

(323.0)

(323.0)
18 (3,607.2) (3,369.8) (3,688.6)

(406.7)

(406.7)

(3,510.9)

(3,930.2) (3,776.5)

(4,011.6)

(3,917.6)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

19.1

315.6

19.1

315.2

2.3

2.5

(17.8)

319.2

(17.9)

318.9

19 Financial risk management (continued) 

(d)  Fair value measurements
The fair value of cash, cash equivalents and non-interest bearing financial 
assets and liabilities approximates their carrying value due to their short 
maturity. The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an 
active market (for example, over-the-counter derivatives) are determined 
using valuation techniques. These valuation techniques maximise the use 
of observable market data where available and rely as little as possible 
on entity specific estimates. If all significant inputs required to fair value 
an instrument are observable, the instrument is included in Level 2.

The Group measures and recognises the following assets and liabilities 
at fair value on a recurring basis:

 › Forward foreign exchange contracts
 ›  Interest rate swaps
 › CCIRS

The fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts has been 
determined as the unrealised gain/(loss) at balance date by reference to 
market rates. The fair value of interest rate swaps has been determined 
as the net present value of contracted cash flows.

These values have been adjusted to reflect the credit risk of the Group 
and relevant counterparties, depending on whether the instrument is 
a financial asset or a financial liability. The existing exposure method, 
which discounts estimated future cash flows to present value using credit 
adjusted discount factors after counterparty netting arrangements, has 
been adopted for both forward foreign exchange contracts and interest 
rate swaps.

The fair value of CCIRS has been determined as the net present value of 
contracted cash flows. The future probable exposure method is applied 
to the estimated future cash flows to reflect the credit risk of the Group 
and relevant counterparties.

The fair value of non-current borrowings is estimated by discounting 
the future contractual cash flows at the current market interest rates 
that are available to Aurizon for similar financial instruments. For the 
period ended 30 June 2020, the borrowing rates were determined 
to be between 0.9% to 3.0%, depending on the type of borrowing 
(2019: 1.8% to 4.2%).

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.

8282

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2017–18AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
19   Financial risk management (continued) 

20  Derivative financial instruments

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)

During the year, there were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and 
Level 3 fair value hierarchies.

2020

Notes

Level 1 
$m

Level 2 
$m

Level 3 
$m

Derivative financial assets

20

Derivative financial 
liabilities

20

Net financial instruments 
measured at fair value

2019

Derivative financial assets

20

Derivative financial 
liabilities

20

Net financial instruments 
measured at fair value

–

–

–

–

–

–

221.0

(80.8)

140.2

197.5

(49.1)

148.4

–

–

–

–

–

–

Total 
$m

221.0

(80.8)

140.2

197.5

(49.1)

148.4

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
A derivative is a type of financial instrument typically used 
to manage risk. A derivative’s value changes over time in 
response to underlying variables such as exchange rates 
or interest rates and is entered into for a fixed period. The 
Group holds derivative financial instruments to economically 
hedge its foreign currency and interest rate exposures in 
accordance with the Board approved Treasury Policies 
(refer to note 19).

Current assets

Foreign exchange contracts

Non-current assets

Interest rate swaps – AMTN 3

CCIRS – EMTN 1

CCIRS – EMTN 2

Total derivative financial instrument assets

Current liabilities

Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate swaps

Non-current liabilities

Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate swaps

Total derivative financial instrument liabilities

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

0.2

0.8

3.2

155.3

62.3

220.8

221.0

(1.5)

(33.6)

(35.1)

(0.2)

(45.5)

(45.7)

(80.8)

–

151.6

45.1

196.7

197.5

–

–

–

–

(49.1)

(49.1)

(49.1)

83

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  20   Derivative financial instruments (continued)

(a)  Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities
The following table presents the recognised financial instruments that are offset, or subject to enforceable master netting arrangements and other 
similar agreements but not offset, as at 30 June 2020 and 30 June 2019. The column ‘net amount‘ shows the impact on the Group’s balance sheet if 
all set-off rights were exercised.

Effects of offsetting on the balance sheet

Related amounts not offset

Gross amounts 
$m

Gross amounts  
set-off in the 
balance sheet
$m

Net amounts
presented in the 
balance sheet
$m

Amounts subject  
to master netting
arrangements
$m

Net amount1
$m

2020

Financial assets

Derivative financial instruments

Financial liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

2019

Financial assets

Derivative financial instruments

Financial liabilities

Derivative financial instruments

1  No financial instrument collateral

221.0

(80.8)

197.5

(49.1)

–

–

–

–

221.0

(80.8)

197.5

(49.1)

(0.9)

0.9

–

–

220.1

(79.9)

197.5

(49.1)

Master netting arrangement
Derivative transactions are administered under ISDA Master Agreements. Under the terms of these agreements, where certain credit events occur 
(such as default), the net position owing/receivable to a single counterparty in the same currency will be taken as owing and all the relevant 
arrangements terminated. As the Group does not presently have a legally enforceable right of set-off between different transaction types, these 
amounts have not been offset in the balance sheet, but have been presented separately in the table above.

84

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–2020    Derivative financial instruments 

(continued)

(a)   Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities 

(continued)

Recognition and measurement
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative 
contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured to their fair 
value at the end of each reporting period. The accounting for subsequent 
changes in fair value 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). The Group has established a 100% 
hedge relationship against the identified exposure, therefore the 
hedge ratio is 1:1.

At inception, the Group documents the relationship between hedging 
instruments and hedged items, the risk management objective and 
the strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. At inception 
and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents its assessment of 
whether the derivatives used in hedging transactions have been, and will 
continue to be, highly effective in offsetting future cash flows of hedged 
items. Hedge effectiveness is determined at the inception of the hedge 
relationship, and through periodic prospective effectiveness assessments 
to ensure that an economic relationship exists between the hedged item 
and hedging instrument. The Group enters into hedge relationships where 
the critical terms of the hedging instrument match exactly with the terms 
of the hedged item, and so a qualitative assessment of effectiveness is 
performed. If changes in circumstances affect the terms of the hedged 
item such that the critical terms no longer match exactly with the critical 
terms of the hedging instrument, the Group uses the hypothetical 
derivative method to assess effectiveness.

The fair values of derivative financial instruments used for hedging 
purposes are disclosed in this section. 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.

 Cash flow hedge

(i) 
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 limited 
to the cumulative change in fair value of the hedged item on a present 
value basis from the inception of the hedge. Ineffectiveness is recognised 
on a cash flow hedge where the cumulative change in the designated 
component value of the hedging instrument exceeds on an absolute 
basis the change in value of the hedged item attributable to the hedged 
risk. Ineffectiveness may arise where the timing of the transaction 
changes from what was originally estimated or differences arise between 
credit risk inherent within the hedged item and the hedging instrument. 
The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised 
immediately in profit or loss within other income or other expense.

Amounts accumulated in equity are reclassified to profit or loss 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 
profit or loss. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, 
the cumulative gain or loss that was reported in equity is immediately 
reclassified to profit or loss.

If the hedge ratio for risk management purposes is no longer optimal 
but the risk management objective remains unchanged and the hedge 
continues to qualify for hedge accounting, the hedge relationship 
will be rebalanced by adjusting either the volume of the hedging 
instrument or the volume of the hedged item so that the hedge ratio 
aligns with the ratio used for risk management purposes. Any hedge 
ineffectiveness is calculated and accounted for at the time of the hedge 
relationship rebalancing.

(ii)   Fair value hedge
Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify 
as fair value hedges are recorded in the profit or loss, together with 
any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are 
attributable to the hedged risk.

The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of interest rate swaps 
hedging fixed rate borrowings is recognised in profit or loss within 
finance costs, together with changes in the fair value of the hedged fixed 
rate borrowings attributable to interest rate risk. The gain or loss relating 
to the ineffective portion is recognised in the profit or loss within other 
income or other expenses. If the hedge no longer meets the criteria for 
hedge accounting, the adjustment to the carrying amount of a hedged 
item for which the effective interest method is used is amortised to the 
profit or loss over the period to maturity using a recalculated effective 
interest rate.

85

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  Group structure

IN THIS SECTION

Group structure provides information about particular 
subsidiaries and associates and how changes have affected 
the financial position and performance of the Group.

21  Associates and joint arrangements 

22  Material subsidiaries 

23  Parent disclosures 

24  Deed of cross guarantee 

25  Business combination 

26  Discontinued operations 

27  Assets classified as held for sale 

Page 87

Page 87

Page 88

Page 89

Page 89

Page 89

Page 90

86 AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)21   Associates and joint arrangements

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
Associates are all entities over which the Group has 
significant influence but not control or joint control. 
Investments in associates and joint arrangements are 
accounted for using the equity method of accounting 
after initially being recognised at cost.

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.

The carrying amount of equity accounted investments is tested for 
impairment in accordance with the policy described in note 9. The 
recoverable amount of the investment in Aquila is dependent on 
judgements made in relation to the long-term foreign exchange rates, 
metallurgical coal prices, iron ore prices and the timing of development 
of Aquila’s mining projects and is $nil.

(a)  Investments in associates
The Group has an interest in the following associates:

22  Material subsidiaries

Name

Aquila Resources 
Limited1

Ownership interest

Country of 
operation

2020  
%

2019  
%

Principal 
activity

Australia

15

15

Exploration 
and mining

1   Aquila Resources Limited is accounted for as an associated company because 

the Group has significant influence primarily through representation on its Board 
of Directors.

(b)  Investments in joint ventures
The Group has an interest in the following joint ventures, which are 
equity accounted. The Group’s share of net loss from joint ventures was 
$0.1m (2019: net profit $0.1 million). The joint ventures have net assets 
of $2.7 million (2019: $2.8 million) and are not considered material to 
the Group.

Name

Coal Network 
Capacity Co Pty Ltd1

Chun Wo/CRGL

ARG Risk 
Management Limited

Integrated Logistics 
Company Pty Ltd

ACN 169 052 288

Ownership interest

Country of 
operation

2020  
%

2019  
%

Principal 
activity

Australia

China- 
Hong Kong

Bermuda

Australia

Australia

8

17

50

14

15

Independent 
Expert

–

17 Construction

50

Insurance

14

15

Consulting

Dormant

1   Coal Capacity Co Pty Ltd is the Independent Expert established as a result of the 

approved Access Undertaking. 

Recognition and measurement
Under the equity method of accounting, the investments are initially 
recognised at cost and adjusted thereafter to recognise the Group’s 
share of the post-acquisition profits or losses of the investee in profit 
or loss, and the Group’s share of movements in other comprehensive 
income of the investee in other comprehensive income. The cumulative 
post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying amount 
of the investment. Dividends received or receivable from associates and 
joint ventures are recognised as a reduction in the carrying amount of 
the investment.

The Group’s material subsidiaries that were controlled during the 
financial year are set out below:

Name of entity

Aurizon Operations Limited

Interail Australia Pty Ltd

Australia Eastern Railroad Pty Ltd

Australia Western Railroad Pty Ltd

Aurizon Network Pty Ltd

Aurizon Property Pty Ltd

Aurizon Terminal Pty Ltd

Aurizon Finance Pty Ltd

Aurizon Port Services Pty Ltd

Equity holding

Country of 
incorporation

2020  
%

2019  
%

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

–

100

Iron Horse Insurance Company Pte Ltd

Singapore

Principles of consolidation
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 financial year.

Subsidiaries are all entities (including structured entities) over which 
the Group has control. The Group controls an entity when the Group is 
exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with 
the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power 
to direct the activities of the entity.

Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control 
is transferred to the Group and de-consolidated from the date that 
control ceases. Transactions between continuing and discontinued 
operations are treated as external from the date that the operation 
was discontinued. Where arrangements between the continuing and 
discontinued operation will continue subsequent to disposal, transactions 
including revenue and expenses will be included in the continuing 
operations profit or loss with elimination entries recognised in profit 
or loss of the discontinued operation.

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

87

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  22  Material subsidiaries (continued) 

Changes in ownership interests
When the Group ceases to have control, joint control or significant 
influence, any retained interest in the entity is remeasured to its fair 
value with the change in carrying amount recognised in the profit or 
loss. This fair value becomes the initial carrying amount for the purposes 
of subsequently accounting for the retained interest as an associate, 
joint venture or financial asset. In addition, any amounts previously 
recognised in other comprehensive income in respect of that entity are 
accounted for as if the Group had directly disposed of the related assets 
or liabilities. This may mean that amounts previously recognised in other 
comprehensive income are classified to profit or loss.

If the ownership interest in a joint venture or an associate is reduced 
but joint control or significant influence is retained, only a proportionate 
share of the amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive 
income are reclassified to profit or loss where appropriate.

23  Parent disclosures

The parent and ultimate parent entity within the Group is Aurizon 
Holdings Limited.

During the financial year, the Aurizon Holdings Limited Board endorsed 
the implementation of a simplified legal structure to optimise the Group’s 
balance sheet and provide additional funding capacity. The internal 
reorganisation was completed on 19 August 2019.

 › Aurizon Operations Limited transferred its equity investment in Aurizon 

Network Pty Ltd to the Company; and

 › The Company transferred its equity investment in Aurizon Finance Pty 

Ltd to Aurizon Operations Limited.

(a)  Summary financial information
The individual financial statements for the parent entity, Aurizon Holdings 
Limited, show the following aggregate amounts:

Current assets

Non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Shareholders’ equity

Contributed equity

Retained earnings

Reserves

Total equity

Profit for the year

Total comprehensive income

2020  
$m

67.7

2019  
$m

40.9

4,004.5

6,086.1

4,072.2

6,127.0

(67.5)

(42.4)

–

(1,724.8)

(67.5)

(1,767.2)

4,004.7

4,359.8

506.6

44.6

906.6

2.0

3,453.5

3,451.2

4,004.7

4,359.8

556.4

556.4

487.9

487.9

(b)  Guarantees entered into by the parent entity
The Deed of Cross Guarantee, for which Aurizon Holdings Limited was 
the Trustee, was revoked effective 14 February 2020. Refer to note 24 
for further information.

On 25 January 2017, as a residual obligation under the project documents 
with Moorebank Intermodal Company (MIC) Aurizon Holdings Limited 
provided a Parent Company Guarantee (PCG) in favour of MIC in relation 
to 50% of the cost to complete construction of the Terminal Works and 
25% of the contract sum for design and construction of the Rail Access. 
The estimated maximum exposure under the guarantee is $65.8 million 
(2019: $70.8 million), however Aurizon Holdings Limited has obtained 
a 100% cross indemnity guarantee from Qube Holdings Ltd in respect 
of any call under the Aurizon Holdings Limited PCG.

(c)  Contingent liabilities of the parent entity
The parent entity did not have any material contingent liabilities as at 
30 June 2020 (2019: $nil).

(d)   Contractual commitments for the acquisition of 

property, plant and equipment

As at 30 June 2020, the parent entity did not have any contractual 
commitments for the acquisition of property, plant and equipment 
(2019: $nil).

Recognition and measurement
The financial information for the parent entity, Aurizon Holdings Limited, 
has been prepared on the same basis as the consolidated financial 
statements, except as set out below.

 Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint venture entities

(i) 
Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint venture entities are 
accounted for at cost in the financial statements of Aurizon Holdings 
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.

(ii)  Tax consolidation legislation
Aurizon and its wholly-owned Australian entities elected to form a 
tax consolidation group with effect from 22 November 2010 and are 
therefore taxed as a single entity. The head entity of the tax consolidated 
group is Aurizon Holdings Limited.

The head entity, Aurizon Holdings 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.

In addition to its own current and deferred tax amounts, Aurizon 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.

The entities have also entered into tax sharing and tax funding 
agreements. The tax funding agreement 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.

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.

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.

The tax sharing agreement limits the joint and several liability of the 
wholly-owned entities in the case of a default by the head entity.

88

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Goodwill is attributable to future customer growth and has been 
allocated to the Bulk East CGU. None of the goodwill is expected to 
be deductible for tax purposes.

Acquisition costs of $0.5 million were expensed to profit or loss. 
Net cash outflow from investing activities for acquisition of subsidiary 
was $24.5 million, representing cash paid of $24.8 million net of cash 
acquired of $0.3 million.

26  Discontinued operations

(a)  Description

Closure and sale of Intermodal
On 14 August 2017, the Group announced its intention to exit the 
Intermodal business through a combination of closure and sale, as such, 
the Intermodal business is disclosed as a discontinued operation from 
that date.

The Group signed a binding agreement with Pacific National on 28 July 
2017 to sell its Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal for $205.0 million, of 
which a $35.0 million non-refundable deposit was received in advance. 
The transaction is subject to approval by the ACCC and FIRB.

On 6 May 2020, the Full Federal Court unanimously dismissed an appeal 
by the ACCC that the sale of the Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal 
to Pacific National contravened section 50 of the Commonwealth’s 
Competition and Consumer Act (2010). On 26 June 2020, the ACCC 
sought special leave to the High Court to appeal the decision of the 
Full Federal Court.

It is anticipated that the special leave application decision will be 
received before the end of calendar year 2020.

The Queensland Intermodal business was sold to Linfox Australia Pty Ltd 
on 31 January 2019.

SIGNIFICANT JUDGEMENTS
The Group remains committed to exiting the Intermodal business 
and on this basis has continued to classify the Acacia Ridge 
Intermodal Terminal as a discontinued operation and held for sale 
at 30 June 2020.

23  Parent disclosures (continued)

(d)   Contractual commitments for the acquisition of 
property, plant and equipment (continued)

(iii)  Employee benefits (share-based payments)
The grant by the Company of rights over its equity instruments to the 
employees of subsidiaries are treated as a capital contribution to that 
subsidiary. 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 the corresponding subsidiaries.

24  Deed of cross guarantee

The Deed of Cross Guarantee, for which Aurizon Holdings Limited was 
the Trustee, was revoked effective 14 February 2020. Aurizon Operations 
Limited has subsequently entered a Deed of Cross Guarantee as Trustee 
with all parties of the former consolidated group (the ‘closed group’), 
except for Aurizon Holdings Limited, on 22 April 2020.

The parties to the Deed of Cross Guarantee included: Aurizon Holdings 
Limited, Aurizon Finance Pty Ltd, Aurizon Property Holding Pty Ltd, 
Aurizon Property Pty Ltd, Aurizon Terminal Pty Ltd, Aurizon Operations 
Limited, Aurizon Intermodal Pty Ltd, Logistics Australasia Pty Ltd, Aurizon 
Resource Logistics Pty Limited, Interail Australia Pty Ltd, Australian Rail 
Pty Ltd, Australia Eastern Railroad Pty Ltd, Australia Western Railroad 
Pty Ltd and Australian Railroad Group Employment Pty Ltd.

Refer to the 2019 Annual Report for information relating to the 2019 
financial year.

25  Business combination

(a)  Summary of acquisition
Aurizon Operations Limited acquired 100% of the issued shares in 
Flinders TBSH Pty Ltd, a bulk transport, handling and stevedoring 
services provider in North Queensland, for consideration of $24.8 million 
on 20 March 2020. The company was renamed Aurizon Port Services Pty 
Ltd. The acquisition includes long-term leases at the Port of Townsville 
with bulk storage warehouses and handling facilities adjacent to rail lines. 
The business will be complementary to the Bulk East CGUs rail operation 
as it is located at the end of the Mt Isa rail line connecting the Port of 
Townsville to the commodity rich North West Minerals Province.

Details of the provisional purchase consideration, the net assets acquired 
and goodwill are as follows:

Total purchase consideration

Total assets

Total liabilities

Net identifiable assets acquired

Add: Goodwill

Net assets acquired

$m

24.8

Fair value
$m

36.4

(16.8)

19.6

5.2

24.8

89

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  26  Discontinued operations (continued)

(b)  Financial performance and cash flow information

Financial information relating to the discontinued operations is set out 
below. The 2019 financial year includes the Queensland Intermodal 
business that was sold on 31 January 2019.

Revenue

Other income

Employee benefits expense

Energy and fuel

Track access

Consumables

Depreciation

Impairment1

Other expenses

Net finance costs

Profit/(loss) before income tax

Income tax (expense)/benefit

Profit from discontinued operations after tax

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating 
activities

Net cash inflow from investing activities

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing 
activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash generated by 
the discontinued operations

2020 
$m

25.0

2.5

(3.6)

(0.2)

–

(8.4)

(0.2)

–

0.1

–

15.2

(4.4)

10.8

9.9

0.4

–

2019 
$m

111.0

12.1

(31.2)

(6.1)

(8.7)

(58.4)

(0.2)

(25.1)

1.9

0.1

(4.6)

7.8

3.2

(25.4)

11.1

–

Current period
Intermodal closure benefit includes gain on sale of assets in the period.

Prior period
Intermodal closure benefit includes gain on sale of assets in the period 
and release of contract exit cost provisions recognised in the prior 
period of $13.2 million. Significant items also include asset write downs 
of $25.1 million and a redundancy benefit of $0.5 million as a result of 
the sale of the Queensland Intermodal business.

(d)   Assets and liabilities of disposal group classified as 

held for sale

The following assets and liabilities of the disposal group are classified 
as held for sale:

Assets classified as held for sale

Property, plant and equipment

Trade and other receivables

Total assets of disposal group held for sale

Liabilities directly associated with assets 
classified as held for sale

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

38.8

3.9

42.7

36.7

6.2

42.9

Employee benefit obligations

Net assets classified as held for sale

(0.7)

42.0

(0.7)

42.2

27  Assets classified as held for sale

2020 
$m

61.2

3.9

–

65.1

2019 
$m

90.0

15.3

3.1

108.4

Property, plant and equipment

10.3

(14.3)

Trade and other receivables

1 

 Financial year 2019 includes $22.8 million impairment of assets classified as held 
for sale and $2.3 million impairment of property, plant and equipment. 

Inventories

Total assets held for sale

(c)  Significant items
Significant items are those items where their nature and amount 
is considered material to the financial statements. Items related 
to discontinued operations are detailed below:

Significant items

Intermodal closure benefit

Intermodal impairment expense

Redundancy benefit

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

2.5

–

–

2.5

13.2

(25.1)

0.5

(11.4)

90

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Other notes

IN THIS SECTION

Other notes provides information on other items which require 
disclosure to comply with Australian Accounting Standards and 
other regulatory pronouncements however are not considered 
critical in understanding the financial performance or position 
of the Group.

28   Notes to the consolidated statement of cash flows 

29  Related party transactions 

30  Key Management Personnel compensation 

31  Share-based payments 

32  Remuneration of auditors 

33  Summary of other significant accounting policies 

34  Changes in accounting policies 

Page 92

Page 93

Page 93

Page 93

Page 94

Page 95

Page 97

FINANCIAL REPORT   91

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)28   Notes to the consolidated statement of cash flows

(a)  Reconciliation of net cash inflow from operating activities to profit from continuing operations

Profit for the year from continuing operations

Depreciation and amortisation

Impairment of non-financial assets

Finance expenses

Non-cash employee incentive expense/(benefit)

Net (gain)/loss on sale of non-current assets

Net (gain)/loss on sale of business

Share of profits of associates and joint ventures

Net exchange differences

Change in operating assets and liabilities:

(Increase)/Decrease in trade and other receivables

(Increase)/Decrease in inventories

(Increase)/Decrease in other operating assets

Increase/(Decrease) in trade and other payables

Increase/(Decrease) in other liabilities

Increase/(Decrease) in current tax liabilities

Increase/(Decrease) in deferred tax liabilities

Increase/(Decrease) in provisions 

Net cash inflow from operating activities from continuing operations

(b)  Reconciliation of liabilities arising from financing activities to financing cash flows

2020 
$m

605.1

558.6

5.7

151.0

5.8

1.1

(105.4)

0.1

(0.1)

25.9

(26.2)

(19.2)

(77.3)

(3.5)

39.9

74.4

1.6

1,237.5

Current
borrowings

Non-current
borrowings

Liabilities 
held to 
hedge
borrowings1

Assets held  
to hedge
borrowings1

$m

$m

$m

$m

2019 
$m

473.3

542.6

24.9

150.0

(7.2)

2.8

–

(0.1)

0.9

49.5

(13.1)

(10.2)

87.2

(17.8)

(31.2)

94.7

(30.6)

1,315.7

Total

$m

Balance as at 1 July 2019

Reclassification

Financing cash flows2

Effect of changes in exchange rates

Other changes in fair values

Other non-cash movements

Balance as at 30 June 2020

Balance as at 1 July 2018

Financing cash flows2

Effect of changes in exchange rates

Other changes in fair values

Other non-cash movements

Balance as at 30 June 2019

(3,220.8)

(49.1)

196.8

(3,222.1)

(149.0)

(523.5)

16.0

–

(1.1)

–

(657.6)

(100.0)

(49.0)

–

–

–

523.5

(227.2)

(14.1)

(9.6)

(1.4)

(2,949.6)

(3,401.9)

302.4

(46.4)

(72.3)

(2.6)

(149.0)

(3,220.8)

–

–

–

(30.0)

–

(79.1)

(21.3)

–

10.6

(38.4)

–

(49.1)

–

–

14.1

9.9

–

–

(211.2)

–

(30.8)

(1.4)

220.8

(3,465.5)

110.4

(11.5)

35.8

62.1

–

(3,412.8)

241.9

–

(48.6)

(2.6)

196.8

(3,222.1)

1  Assets and liabilities held to hedge borrowings exclude foreign exchange contracts included in note 20.

2   Financing cash flows consists of the net amount of proceeds from borrowings, repayment of borrowings, payments of transaction costs related to borrowings and 

proceeds from settlement of derivatives in the consolidated statement of cash flows.

92

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
29  Related party transactions

31  Share-based payments

(a)   Transactions with Directors and Key Management 

Personnel

There were no Key Management Personnel (KMP) related party 
transactions during the financial year (2019: nil).

(b)  Transactions with other related parties
There were no transactions with other related parties during the financial 
year (2019: nil).

(c)   Terms and conditions of transactions with related parties 

other than Key Management Personnel or entities 
related to them and intra group transactions

All other transactions 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.

30   Key Management Personnel 

compensation

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Long-term benefits

Other benefits

Share-based payments

2020  
$’000

2019  

$’000

8,054

9,493

214

119

386

2,662

11,435

297

47

–

1,932

11,769

Short-term employee benefits include cash salary, at risk performance 
incentives and fees, non-monetary benefits and other short-term 
benefits. Non-monetary benefits represent the value of Reportable 
Fringe Benefits for the respective Fringe Benefits Tax year ending 
31 March, motor vehicle lease payments and annual leave accrued 
or utilised during the financial year. Other short-term benefits include 
sign-on bonus and relocation assistance.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
The Performance Rights Plan was established by the 
Board 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. 
Eligible executives may be granted rights on terms and 
conditions determined by the Board from time to time. 
The fair value of rights granted under the schemes is 
recognised as an employee benefits expense with a 
corresponding increase in equity.

(a)  Performance rights plan
Under the Performance Rights Plan, rights may be offered to Participants 
selected by the Board. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, 
no payment is required for the grant of rights under the Performance 
Rights Plan.

Subject to any adjustment in the event of a bonus issue, each right 
is an option to subscribe for one Share. Upon the exercise of a right 
by a Participant, each Share issued will rank equally with other Shares 
of the Company.

The Performance Rights Plan schemes are described as follows:

Short-term Incentive Award (STIA) 
A portion of any STIA for the Managing Director & CEO and the 
Executive Management Team is awarded in performance rights and are 
deferred. The rights vest after one year and a Participant may exercise 
the right provided that the Participant remains employed by the Group 
at the vesting date, unless otherwise determined by the Board.

Long-term Incentive Award (LTIA)
Performance rights are granted to senior executives as part 
of the Group’s LTIA. Vesting of the rights is subject to satisfying 
service conditions and performance conditions including Total 
Shareholder Return (market based) and Return on Invested Capital  
(non-market based).

Retentions
Performance rights are granted to eligible executives at the Board’s 
discretion for retention. The rights vest at the end of a specified retention 
period or project and a Participant may exercise the right provided that 
the Participant remains employed by the Group at vesting date.

93

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  31   Share-based payments (continued)

(b)  Expenses arising from share-based payment transactions

(a)  Performance rights plan (continued)
Retentions (continued) 

The table below summarises rights granted under the plan:

Balance 
at start of 
the year 
Number 
‘000

Granted 
during 
the year 
Number  
‘000

Exercised 
during 
the year 
Number 
‘000

Forfeited 
during 
the year 
Number 
‘000

Balance 
at end of 
the year1 
Number 
‘000

2020

STIAD

LTIA

Retentions

Total

2019

STIAD

LTIA

Retentions

Total

546

10,679

263

480

2,354

18

(546)

(52)

428

–

–

(5,043)

7,990

–

281

11,488

2,852

(546)

(5,095)

8,699

105

11,655

25

11,785

546

2,950

263

3,759

(105)

–

546

–

(3,926)

10,679

(25)

(130)

–

263

(3,926)

11,488

Performance Rights Plan

2020 
$m

5.9

2019 
$m
7.2

Recognition and measurement
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.

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 Company revises its estimates of the number 
of rights that are expected to vest based on the non-market vesting 
conditions. It recognises the impact of the revision to original estimates, 
if any, in profit or loss, with a corresponding adjustment to equity.

Share-based compensation is settled by making on-market purchases 
of the Company’s ordinary shares.

1 Balance of rights at the end of the year remains unvested. 

32  Remuneration of auditors

The weighted average share price at the date Participants exercised 
rights during the period was $5.79 (2019: $4.32). The weighted average 
remaining contractual life of unvested rights at 30 June 2020 was 
1.6 years (2019: 1.2 years).

Fair value of rights granted
In determining the fair value, market techniques for valuation were 
applied in accordance with AASB 2 Share-based payments. The fair 
value of the portion of Short-term Incentive Award deferred (STIAD) was 
$6.03 (2019: $4.21) representing the share price at grant date. The fair 
value of LTIA rights, that are subject to non-market based performance 
conditions, was $4.77 (2019: $3.40) and represents 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 market 
based performance condition has been calculated using the Monte-Carlo 
simulation techniques based on the inputs disclosed in the table below:

2020

2019

LTIA EXECS & CEO LTIA EXECS
17 Oct 2019
30 Jun 2023
31 Dec 2023
$5.80

5 Oct 2018
5 Oct 2022
31 Dec 2022
$4.14

LTIA CEO
18 Oct 2018
18 Oct 2022
31 Dec 2022
$4.10

Scheme
Grant date
Vesting date
Expiry date
Share price at 
grant date
Expected life
Company 
share price 
volatility
Risk free rate
0.80%
Dividend yield 5.30%
Fair value

$3.12

4 years
17.80%

4 years
18.70%

4 years
18.90%

2.20%
5.20%
$1.70

2.30%
5.20%
$1.77

During the year the following fees were paid or payable for services 
provided by the auditor of the parent entity and its related practices:

PwC Australia

Audit and other assurance services

2020 
$’000

2019 
$’000

Audit and other assurance services

Audit and review of financial statements

1,190

1,213

Other assurance services

Other assurance services

34

58

Total remuneration for audit and other 
assurance services

Taxation services

Tax advisory services

Other services

Advisory services

Total remuneration of PwC Australia 

1,224

1,271

11

–

59

1,294

246

1,517

33   Summary of other significant 

accounting policies

Other significant 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. Where necessary, comparative information has been restated 
to conform with changes in presentation in the current year.

The Company share price volatility is based on the Company’s average 
historical share price volatility to the grant date.

94

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
30 June 2020 (continued)

33   Summary of other significant 

accounting policies (continued)

(a)  Basis of preparation

(i)  New and amended standards adopted by the Group
The Group has applied the following standards and amendments for 
the first time for the annual reporting period commencing 1 July 2019:

 › AASB 16 Leases
 › Interpretation 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments
 › AASB 2018-1 Amendments to Australia Accounting Standards – 

Annual Improvements 2015-2017 Cycle

The Group also elected to adopt the following amendments early:

 ›  AASB 2019-3 Amendments to Australia Accounting Standards – 

Interest Rate Benchmark Reform

The Group had to change its accounting policies as a result of adopting 
AASB 16. The Group elected to adopt the new rules retrospectively and 
recognised the cumulative effect of initially applying the new standard 
on 1 July 2019. This is disclosed in note 34. The Interest Rate Benchmark 
Reform amendments modify specific hedge accounting requirements 
to allow hedge accounting to continue during the period of uncertainty 
relating to the benchmarking reforms for affected cash flow and fair value 
hedges related to the Group’s European Medium Term Notes (EMTN). 
The Interest Rate Benchmark Reform and other amendments listed above 
did not have any impact on the amounts recognised in prior years and are 
not expected to significantly affect the current or future years.

(ii)   New standards and interpretations not yet adopted
Certain new accounting standards and amendments to standards 
have been published that are not mandatory for reporting periods 
commencing 1 July 2019 and have not been early adopted by the 
Group. These standards are not expected to have a material impact 
on the entity in the current or future reporting periods and on 
foreseeable future transactions.

(b)  Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes 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.

(c)  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 the 
Company’s functional and presentation currency.

(ii)  Transactions and balances
Where the Group is exposed to the risk of fluctuations in foreign 
exchange rates and market interest rates, it enters into financial 
arrangements to reduce these exposures. 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 at the dates of the transactions. 
Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of 
such transactions and from the translation of monetary assets and 
liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at year end exchange 
rates are generally recognised in profit or loss. They are deferred in 
equity if they relate to 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.

(d)  Leases
As explained in note 33(a)(i), the Group has changed its accounting 
policy for leases where the Group is the lessee. The new policy is 
described in note 9(b) and the impact of the change in note 34.

Until 30 June 2019, leases in which a significant portion of the risks 
and rewards of ownership are not transferred to the Group, as lessee, 
were classified as operating leases. Payments made under operating 
leases (net of any incentives received from the lessor) were charged 
to the consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the 
period of the lease. Lease income from operating leases where the 
Group is a lessor was recognised as income on a straight-line basis 
over the lease term.

(e)  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
 › liabilities incurred to the former owners of the acquired business
 › equity interests issued by the Group
 › fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent 

consideration arrangement, and

 › fair value of any pre-existing equity interest in the subsidiary.

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. The 
Group recognises any non-controlling interest in the acquired entity 
on an acquisition-by-acquisition basis either at fair value or at the 
non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquired entity’s 
net identifiable assets.

Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred.

The excess of the:

 › consideration transferred,
 › amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquired entity, and
 › acquisition-date fair value of any previous equity interest in the 

acquired entity

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 business acquired, the difference is recognised 
directly in profit or loss as a bargain purchase.

95

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  Notes to the consolidated financial statements
30 June 2020 (continued)

33   Summary of other significant 

accounting policies (continued)

(e)  Business combinations (continued)
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.

Predecessor value method of accounting is used to account for all 
business combinations that involve entities under common control. 
Acquired assets and liabilities are recorded at their existing carrying 
values and no goodwill is recorded. Retrospective presentation of the 
acquired entity’s results and balance sheet are incorporated as if both 
entities (acquirer and acquiree) had always been combined.

(f)   Non-current assets (or disposal groups) held for sale 

and discontinued operations

Non-current assets (or disposal groups) are classified as held for sale 
if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale 
transaction rather than through continuing use and a sale is considered 
highly probable. They are measured at the lower of their carrying amount 
and fair value less costs to sell, except for assets such as deferred tax 
assets, assets arising from employee benefits, financial assets and 
investment property that are carried at fair value and contractual 
rights under insurance contracts, which are specifically exempt 
from this requirement.

An impairment loss is recognised for any initial or subsequent write-
down of the asset (or disposal group) to fair value less costs to sell. 
A gain is recognised for any subsequent increases in fair value less costs 
to sell of an asset (or disposal group), but not in excess of any cumulative 
impairment loss previously recognised. A gain or loss not previously 
recognised by the date of the sale of the non-current asset (or disposal 
group) is recognised at the date of derecognition.

Non-current assets (including those that are part of a disposal group) 
are not depreciated or amortised while they are classified as held for sale. 
Interest and other expenses attributable to the liabilities of a disposal 
group classified as held for sale continue to be recognised.

Non-current assets classified as held for sale and the assets of a disposal 
group classified as held for sale are presented separately from the other 
assets in the balance sheet. The liabilities of a disposal group classified 
as held for sale are presented separately from other liabilities in the 
balance sheet.

A discontinued operation is a component of the entity that has been 
disposed of or is classified as held for sale and that represents a separate 
major line of business or geographical area of operations, is part of a 
single co-ordinated plan to dispose of such a line of business or area of 
operations, or is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale. 
The results of discontinued operations are presented separately in the 
statement of profit or loss.

(g)  Financial instruments

(i)  Non-derivative financial assets
The Group initially recognises financial assets on the trade date at 
which the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of 
the instrument. 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.

Financial assets are initially measured at fair value. If the financial asset 
is not subsequently accounted for at fair value through profit or loss, 
then the initial measurement includes transaction costs that are directly 
attributable to the asset’s acquisition or origination. On initial recognition, 
the Group classifies its financial assets as subsequently measured at 
either amortised cost or fair value, depending on its business model 
for managing the financial assets and the contractual cash flow 
characteristics of the financial assets.

(ii)  Financial assets measured at amortised cost
A financial asset is subsequently measured at amortised cost, using 
effective interest method and net of any impairment loss, if

 › The asset is held within the business model whose objective is to 

hold assets in order to collect contractual cash flows; and

 › The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise, on specified 

dates, to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest

The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is objective 
evidence that a financial asset (or group of financial assets) is impaired. 
For trade receivables, the Group applies the simplified approach 
permitted by AASB 9 Financial Instruments, which requires expected 
lifetime losses to be recognised from initial recognition of the receivables.

(iii)  Non-derivative liabilities
The Group initially recognises loans and debt securities issued on the 
date when they originate. Other financial liabilities are initially recognised 
on the trade date. The Group derecognises a financial liability when its 
contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled or expire.

Non-derivative financial liabilities are initially recognised at fair value 
less any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial 
recognition, these liabilities are measured at amortised cost using the 
effective interest method.

(h)  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 Taxation 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.

The Company and its subsidiaries are grouped for GST purposes. 
Therefore, any inter-company transactions within the Group do 
not attract GST.

96

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–2034  Changes in accounting policies

The change in accounting policy affected the following items in the 
consolidated balance sheet on 1 July 2019:

This note explains the impact of adoption of AASB 16 Leases on the 
Group’s financial statements and discloses the new accounting policies 
that have been applied from 1 July 2019.

The Group has adopted AASB 16 retrospectively from 1 July 2019 
and comparatives for the 2019 financial year have not been restated 
as permitted under the specific transitional provisions in the standard. 
The reclassifications and the adjustments arising from the new leasing 
rules are therefore recognised in the opening balance sheet on 
1 July 2019.

(a)  Adjustments recognised on adoption of AASB 16
On adoption of AASB 16, the Group recognised lease liabilities in relation 
to leases which had previously been classified as ‘operating leases’ under 
the principles of AASB 117 Leases. These liabilities were measured at 
the present value of the remaining lease payments, discounted using 
the Group’s incremental borrowing rate as of 1 July 2019. The weighted 
average incremental borrowing rate applied to the lease liabilities on 
1 July 2019 was 3.6%.

Operating lease commitments disclosed as at 
30 June 2019

Discounted using the Group’s incremental 
borrowing rate at the date of initial application

(Less): short-term leases recognised on a 
straight-line basis as expense

(Less): adjustments as a result of a different 
treatment of termination options

Lease liability recognised as at 1 July 2019

Of which:

Current other liabilities

Non-current other liabilities

2019
$m

174.6

(26.4)

(0.5)

(4.8)

142.9

14.1

128.8

142.9

The associated right-of-use assets, which relate primarily to property, 
were measured at the amount equal to the lease liability and initial direct 
costs incurred when entering into the lease less incentives received for 
fitout contributions. The right-of-use assets were adjusted for the lease 
receivable on sub-lease arrangements where the sub-lease was for the 
duration of the head lease.

ASSETS

Current assets

Other assets

Non-current assets

Property, plant and equipment

Other assets

LIABILITIES 

Current liabilities

Provisions

Other liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Provisions

Other liabilities

Net assets

EQUITY

Retained earnings

1 July 2019
$m

4.9

53.3

41.1

0.1

(9.8)

2.3

(90.3)

1.6

1.6

Impact on segment disclosures and earnings per share
(i) 
As a result of adopting the new leasing standard from 1 July 2019, 
segment continuing EBITDA has improved due to the change in policy. 
The impact for 2020 financial year is included in the table below.

Segment

Network

Coal

Bulk

Other

Continuing 
EBITDA
$m

–

4.6

1.6

2.0

8.2

There has been no material impact on earnings per share for the 2020 
financial year as a result of the adoption of AASB 16.

(ii)  Practical expedients applied
In applying AASB 16 for the first time, the Group has used the following 
practical expedients permitted by the standard:

 › the accounting for operating leases with a remaining lease term 
of less than 12 months as at 1 July 2019 as short-term leases; and
 › reliance on previous assessments on whether leases are onerous.

The Group has also elected not to reassess whether a contract is, or 
contains a lease at the date of initial application. Instead, for contracts 
entered into before the transition date, the Group relied on its 
assessment made applying AASB 117 and Interpretation 4 Determining 
whether an Arrangement contains a Lease.

(b)   The Group’s leasing activities and how these are 

accounted for

Refer to note 9(b) for the Group’s accounting policy relating to leases.

97

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT   
Unrecognised items and 
events after reporting date

IN THIS SECTION

Unrecognised items provide information about items that are 
not recognised in the financial statements but could potentially 
have a significant impact on the Group’s financial position and 
performance. This section also includes events occurring after 
the reporting date.

35  Contingencies 

36  Commitments 

37  Events occurring after the reporting period 

Page 99

Page 99

Page 99

98 AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20

35  Contingencies

36   Commitments

(a)  Capital commitments
Significant capital expenditure contracted for at the end of the financial 
year but not recognised as liabilities is as follows:

2020 
$m

2019 
$m

Property, plant and equipment

Within one year

102.6

81.1

(b)  Lease commitments
The Group primarily leases property, plant and equipment. These leases, 
with terms mostly ranging from one to 10 years, generally provide 
the Group with a right of renewal at which times the lease terms 
are renegotiated.

From 1 July 2019, the Group has recognised a lease liability for these 
leases, except for short-term and low-value assets. Refer to note 9 
and note 34 for further information.

Commitments for minimum lease payments in relation to 
non-cancellable operating leases are payable as follows:

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than five years

Later than five years

2019 
$m

19.4

75.3

79.9

174.6

37  Events occurring after the  

reporting period

No matter or circumstance, other than the matters disclosed in key 
events and transactions for the period, has occurred subsequent to 
the interim financial period that has significantly affected, or may 
significantly affect, the operations of the Group, the results of those 
operations or the state of affairs of the Group or economic entity in 
subsequent financial periods.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE  
Contingencies relate to the outcome of future events and may 
result in an asset or liability, but due to current uncertainty, 
do not qualify for recognition.

(a)  Contingent liabilities
Issues relating to common law claims, product warranties and regulatory 
breaches are dealt with as they arise. There were no material contingent 
liabilities requiring disclosure in the financial statements, other than as 
set out below.

Guarantees and letters of credit
For information about guarantees and letters of credit given by the 
Group, refer to note 19(d). For information about the MIC Parent 
Company Guarantee, refer to note 23(b).

Transfer duty exemption
The transfer of ownership of Aurizon Network Pty Ltd from Aurizon 
Operations Limited to Aurizon Holdings Limited in August 2019 qualified 
for an exemption from transfer duty under the Queensland Duties 
Act 2001. Should duty become payable in respect of the restructure 
(for example, due to a change in ownership of Aurizon Network Pty 
Ltd within three years of the transfer of the shares in August 2019), 
Aurizon estimates the duty liability may be approximately $295 million.

(b)  Contingent assets

Guarantees and letters of credit
For information about guarantees given to the Group, refer to note 19(d).

Wiggins Island Rail Project (WIRP)
In the 2019 financial year, legal proceedings occurred in relation to the 
notices received by Aurizon Network Pty Ltd from the WIRP customers 
purporting to exercise a right under their WIRP Deeds to reduce their 
financial exposure in respect of payment of the non-regulated WIRP fee. 
On 27 June 2019, the Supreme Court of Queensland ruled in the Group’s 
favour. Customers appealed that decision and that appeal was heard in 
the Queensland Court of Appeal between 10 March 2020 and 12 March 
2020. A decision of the Queensland Court of Appeal is expected to be 
delivered in the first half of financial year 2021.

The WIRP customers also initiated other disputes under their respective 
WIRP Deeds which were the subject of an expert determination in 
February 2019. The Expert’s Determination was issued on 4 June 
2019 and found that the WIRP fee should be reduced. These disputes 
relate to the same component of WIRP revenue as the Supreme Court 
of Queensland proceedings and will not impact the recovery of the 
regulated access charge component of WIRP capital expenditure. 
The Group is determining options for appeal of this outcome.

Due to the ongoing dispute, no revenue in respect of the WIRP fee 
has been recognised in the 2020 financial year.

99

Notes to the consolidated financial statements30 June 2020 (continued)FINANCIAL REPORT  Directors’ Declaration
30 June 2020

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 99 are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:

(i) 

 complying with Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements as detailed above, 
and the Corporations Regulations 2001,

(ii)   giving a true and fair view of the consolidated entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its performance 

for the financial 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.

Page 51 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 Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer required by section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001.

Tim Poole 
Chairman 

Brisbane 
10 August 2020

100

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
 
 
Independent auditor’s report 
To the members of Aurizon Holdings Limited 

Report on the audit of the financial report 

Our opinion 

In our opinion: 

The accompanying financial report of Aurizon Holdings Limited (the “Company”) and its controlled 
entities (together the “Group”) is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including: 

(a)  giving a true and fair view of the Group's financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its financial 

performance for the year then ended; and  

(b)  complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001. 

What we have audited 
The Group financial report comprises: 

● 
● 
● 
● 
● 
● 

● 

the consolidated balance sheet as at 30 June 2020; 
the consolidated income statement for the year then ended; 
the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year then ended; 
the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year then ended; 
the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended;  
the notes to the consolidated financial statements, which include a summary of significant 
accounting policies; and 
the directors’ declaration. 

Basis for opinion 

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under 
those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report 
section of our report. 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for 
our opinion. 

Independence 
We are independent of the Group in accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the 
Corporations Act 2001 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical 
Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence 
Standards) (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial report in Australia. We have also 
fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
480 Queen 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. 

101

FINANCIAL REPORT   
 
  
 
Our audit approach 

An audit is designed to provide reasonable assurance about whether the financial report is free from 
material misstatement. Misstatements may arise due to fraud or error. They are considered material if 
individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of 
users taken on the basis of the financial report. 

We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed enough work to be able to give an opinion 
on the financial report as a whole, taking into account the geographic and management structure of the 
Group, its accounting processes and controls and the industry in which it operates. 

Materiality 

Audit scope 

Key audit matters 

●  Amongst other relevant topics, 
we communicated the following 
key audit matters to the Audit 
and Risk Committee: 

−  Access Revenue 
recognition; and 
−  Recoverability of assets 

(including Bulk East and 
Western Australia (WA) 
Cash Generating Units 
(CGUs) and Rollingstock).  

●  These are further described in 

the Key audit matters section of 
our report. 

●  For the purpose of our audit 
we used overall Group 
materiality of $38 million, 
which represents 
approximately 5% of the 
Group’s profit before tax from 
continuing operations.   

●  Our audit focused on where 
the Group made subjective 
judgements; for example, 
significant accounting 
estimates involving 
assumptions and inherently 
uncertain future events. 

●  The Group is a large rail-based 
freight operator and transports 
coal, iron ore and other bulk 
commodities across Australia.  

●  The Group also owns and 
operates the Central 
Queensland Coal Network 
(CQCN) which is a multi-user 
track network that comprises 
of four major coal systems and 
one connecting system serving 
Queensland’s Bowen Basin 
coal region.  

●  We applied this threshold, 

together with qualitative 
considerations, to determine 
the scope of our audit and the 
nature, timing and extent of 
our audit procedures and to 
evaluate the effect of 
misstatements on the financial 
report as a whole. 

●  We chose Group profit before 

tax from continuing operations 
because, in our view, it is the 
benchmark against which the 
performance of the Group is 
most commonly measured.   

●  We utilised a 5% threshold 
based on our professional 
judgement, noting it is within 
the range of commonly 
acceptable thresholds.  

102

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
 
 
Key audit matters 

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our 
audit of the financial report for the current period. The key audit matters were addressed in the context of 
our audit of the financial report as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a 
separate opinion on these matters. Further, any commentary on the outcomes of a particular audit 
procedure is made in that context.  

Key audit matter 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter 

 Access Revenue recognition 
(Refer to note 2 and Key events and transactions for 
the reporting period) 

During the year ended 30 June 2020 (FY2020), the 
Group recorded track access revenue of $1,130.2 
million.  

The following procedures amongst others were 
performed in relation to access revenue recognition: 

●  Obtained management’s reconciliation of the 

total MAR for FY2020 as per the QCA 
approved 2017 Access Undertaking to actual 
revenue billed to customers for each of the 
systems in the CQCN. 

●  Agreed the reference tariff applicable for each 
of the systems within the CQCN for FY2020 to 
the QCA approved 2017 Access Undertaking. 

●  Agreed on a sample basis that revenue had 

been recognised based on actual volumes 
hauled and the approved 2017 Access 
Undertaking reference tariffs. 

Track access revenue is recognised over time as access 
to the Central Queensland Rail Network (CQCN) is 
provided and is measured on a number of operating 
parameters, including the volume hauled and regulator 
(Queensland Competition Authority (QCA)) approved 
pricing tariffs. 

The tariffs are determined with reference to the total 
allowable revenue, applied to the regulatory approved 
annual volume forecast for each rail system. 

Where annual volumes railed are less than the 
regulatory forecast Take-or-Pay clauses may be 
triggered. Take-or-Pay is calculated based on the 
Group’s judgement of below rail cause versus above rail 
operator/mine cancellations. 

Take-or-Pay revenue is recognised in the financial year 
that the contractual railings were not achieved as the 
Group consider that related performance obligations 
have been satisfied.  

2017 Access Undertaking Update 

On 21 February 2020, the QCA approved Aurizon 
Networks’ consolidated Compliant Access Undertaking 
and Volume Reset Draft Amending Access Undertaking 
(DAAU) for the CQCN (2017 Access Undertaking). 

The tariffs included in the 2017 Access Undertaking 
approved by the QCA assumed an independent 
capacity assessment would be complete by 1 March 
2020 and therefore, a combined WACC of 6.03% 
(5.90% July - February, 6.30% March - June) would 
apply for FY2020.  

103

FINANCIAL REPORT   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Key audit matter 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter 

The delay in the independent capacity assessment and 
the higher WACC of 6.30% applying from March 2020 
has resulted in an over-collection of access charges in 
FY2020.  This over collection forms part of the net 
revenue cap adjustment of up to $3.0 million to be 
collected in FY2022 subject to the approval of the QCA. 

Access revenue for FY2020 has been recognised based 
on the QCA approved 2017 Access Undertaking.  

Take-or-Pay 

 Take-or-Pay 

In FY2020, Take-or-Pay clauses have been triggered 
under the 2017 Access Undertaking resulting in $25.6 
million of revenue being recognised where the Group 
considered that customers have not railed their 
nominated forecast volumes and the reason for the 
shortfall was not due to Aurizon Network’s 
management of the CQCN.   

There is judgement involved in respect of the revenue 
recognised in accordance with the Take-or-Pay clauses 
in determining whether the shortfall to nominated 
forecast volumes is due to below rail cause or above rail 
operator/mine cancellations.  

We considered revenue recognition to be a key audit 
matter due to the new 2017 Access Undertaking being a 
key event in the financial year, complexity in revenue 
calculations and the judgement, including the 
determination of Take-or-Pay revenue. 

Recoverability of assets (including Bulk East 
and Western Australia (WA) Cash Generating 
Units (CGUs) and Rollingstock)  
(Refer to note 4) 

Bulk East and WA CGUs  

The Bulk East and WA CGUs have been impaired in 
prior years due to the loss of key customers, 
challenging and competitive Bulk markets and 
operational performance issues. 

During FY2020, impairment reversal indicators have 
been identified for the Bulk East and WA CGUs. 

The Bulk East and WA CGUs’ recoverable amount is 
determined using the Value in Use (VIU) methodology 
utilising a discounted cash flow model.   

●  Obtained computation for the Take-or-Pay 
revenue and agreed that the amounts 
recognised are in accordance with the 2017 
Access Undertaking. 

●  Agreed on a sample basis the Take-or-Pay 
model inputs (including operational units 
such as tonnages hauled, train paths, consist 
configuration, kilometres travelled etc.) to 
underlying customer contracts and other 
supporting documentation.   

●  Tested the mathematical accuracy of the Take-

or-Pay model. 

●  Agreed on a sample basis, the evidence to 
support the cause for volume shortfalls 
relative to nominated forecasts used in the 
determination of Take-or-Pay revenue. 

To evaluate the Group’s assessment of the recoverable 
amount of the Bulk East & WA CGUs, we performed a 
number of procedures including the following:  

●  Assessed whether the division of the Group’s 
property, plant and equipment assets into 
CGUs, which are the smallest identifiable 
groups of assets that can generate largely 
independent cash inflows, was consistent with 
our knowledge of the Group’s operations and 
internal Group reporting.  

●  Assessed whether the carrying value of the 
CGUs included all assets, liabilities and 
cashflows directly attributable to the CGU and 
a reasonable allocation of corporate 
overheads. 

104

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Key audit matter 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter 

In determining the recoverable amount, the Group has 
made the following key judgements: 

● 

● 

the terminal value growth rate of 2.0%; and 

the pre-tax discount rate of 10.4% is 
appropriate. 

Due to the sensitivity of the recoverable amount to the 
renewal of major customer contracts, no reversal of 
previous impairments has been recognised during the 
year ended 30 June 2020.  

Rollingstock 

●  Evaluated the Group’s historical ability to 
forecast future cashflows by comparing 
budgets with reported prior years’ actual 
results.  

●  Tested that forecast cashflows used in the 

model were consistent with the most up-to-
date corporate plan formally approved by the 
Board.  

●  Evaluated the appropriateness of the  

judgements made by the Group in relation to 
key customers’ current and future contractual 
arrangements.  

The Group prepares an Enterprise Fleet Plan (EFP) to 
determine the level of rollingstock required. 

●  Assessed, with assistance from PwC valuation 

experts:  

The Enterprise Fleet Plan covers a ten-year period and 
key assumptions include forecast volumes, productivity 
and required level of contingent fleet. 

Given the judgements incorporated by the Group, the 
assessments of the recoverability of assets (including 
the Bulk East & WA CGUs and rollingstock) is 
considered to be a key audit matter. 

o 

o 

o 

the forecast terminal value growth 
rate of 2.0% by comparing it to 
economic forecasts;  

that the pre-tax nominal discount 
rate applied in the model reflects the 
risks of the CGU; and 

the mathematical accuracy of the 
model.  

●  Evaluated the Group’s sensitivity analysis to 
assess reasonable possible changes that may 
give rise to a further impairment or reversal of 
previous impairments.  

Rollingstock 

To evaluate the Group’s assessment of the recoverable 
amount of rollingstock, we performed a number of 
procedures including the following: 

●  Evaluated the key assumptions included in the 

Group’s EFP.  

●  Compared the forecast haulage demand and 

rollingstock requirements included in the EFP 
to the Board-approved corporate plan.  

●  Evaluated the level of contingent fleet and 

previously impaired rollingstock retained in 
service included in the EFP.  

105

FINANCIAL REPORT   
 
 
  
Other information 

The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information 
included in the annual report for the year ended 30 June 2020, but does not include the financial report 
and our auditor’s report thereon. 

Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and accordingly we do not 
express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

In connection with our audit of the financial report, our responsibility is to read the other information 
and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial 
report or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. 

If, based on the work we have performed on the other information that we obtained prior to the date of 
this auditor’s report, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are 
required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. 

Responsibilities of the directors 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 gives a true and fair view and is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or 
error. 

In preparing the financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the ability of the Group to 
continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the 
going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Group or to cease 
operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report 

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole is free 
from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes 
our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit 
conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material 
misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, 
individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of 
users taken on the basis of the financial report. 

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial report is located at the Auditing 
and Assurance Standards Board website at: 
https://www.auasb.gov.au/admin/file/content102/c3/ar1_2020.pdf            

This description forms part of our auditor's report. 

106

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
Report on the remuneration report 

Our opinion on the remuneration report 

We have audited the remuneration report included in pages 25 to 38 of the directors’ report for the year 
ended 30 June 2020. 

In our opinion, the remuneration report of Aurizon Holdings Limited for the year ended 30 June 2020 
complies with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. 

Responsibilities 

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.  

PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Nadia Carlin                                                                                                                Tim Allman                                                                                                                       
Partner                                                                                                                          Partner 

Brisbane                                                                                                                                                                          
10 August 2020   

FINANCIAL REPORT   107

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-IFRS Financial Information  
in 2019-20 Annual Report 

Net debt consists of borrowings (both current and non-current) less 
cash and cash equivalents. Net debt excludes lease liabilities (included 
in other liabilities) recognised on adoption of the new lease accounting 
standard effective from 1 July 2019. Net gearing ratio is defined as Net 
debt divided by Shareholders Equity plus Net debt. Net debt and Net 
gearing ratio are measures of the Group’s indebtedness and provides an 
indicator of the balance sheet strength. An alternative Net debt and Net 
gearing ratio are also disclosed to include derivative financial instruments 
used to hedge market risk on borrowings.

These above mentioned measures are commonly used by management, 
investors and financial analysts to evaluate companies’ performance.

A reconciliation of the non-IFRS measures and specific items to the 
nearest measure prepared in accordance with IFRS is included in the 
table. The non-IFRS financial information contained within this Directors’ 
report and Notes to the Financial Statements has not been audited in 
accordance with Australian Auditing Standards.

In addition to using profit as a measure of the Group and its segments’ 
financial performance, Aurizon uses EBIT (Statutory and Underlying), 
EBITDA (Statutory and Underlying), EBITDA margin – Underlying, NPAT 
Underlying, Return On Invested Capital (ROIC), Net debt and Net gearing 
ratio. These measurements are not defined under IFRS and are, therefore, 
termed ‘Non-IFRS’ measures.

EBIT – Statutory is defined as Group profit before net finance costs and 
tax, while EBITDA – Statutory is Group profit before net finance costs, 
tax, depreciation and amortisation. EBIT underlying can differ from EBIT 
– Statutory due to exclusion of significant items that permits a more 
appropriate and meaningful analysis of the underlying performance 
on a comparative basis. EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing 
underlying EBITDA by the total revenue. These measures are considered 
to be useful measures of the Group’s operating performance because 
they approximate the underlying operating cash flow by eliminating 
depreciation and/or amortisation.

NPAT – Underlying represents the underlying EBIT less finance costs less 
tax expense excluding tax impact of significant adjustments.

ROIC is defined as underlying rolling twelve-month EBIT divided 
by average invested capital. With the introduction of the new lease 
accounting standard effective from 1 July 2019, which has the effect of 
bringing leases onto the balance sheet, the definition of average invested 
capital has been simplified. Average invested capital is calculated as 
the rolling 12-month average of net assets (excluding cash, borrowings, 
tax, derivative financial assets and liabilities). This measure is intended 
to ensure there is alignment between investment in infrastructure and 
superior returns for shareholders.

108

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20Non-IFRS Financial Information  
in 2019-20 Annual Report (continued)

2020

2019

Continuing 
operations
$m

Discontinued 
operations
$m

Continuing 
operations
$m

Discontinued 
operations
$m

NPAT – Underlying

Significant adjustments, net of tax

NPAT – Statutory

Income tax expense/(benefit)

Profit/(loss) before income tax

Net finance costs/(benefit)

EBIT – Statutory

Add back significant adjustments:

— Net gain on sale of rail grinding business

— Intermodal closure benefit

— Intermodal impairment

— Intermodal redundancy benefit

EBIT – Underlying

Depreciation and amortisation

EBITDA – Underlying

Average invested capital (continuing operations)

ROIC (continuing operations)

Net Gearing Ratio

Total borrowings

Less: cash and cash equivalents

Net debt

Total equity

Total capital

Net Gearing Ratio

Alternative Net Gearing Ratio

Net debt

Accumulated fair value adjustments1

Alternative Net Debt

Total equity

Total capital 

Alternative Net Gearing Ratio

1 Refer note 19 (a) (iv)

9.0

1.8

10.8

4.4

15.2

–

15.2

–

(2.5)

–

–

12.7

0.2

12.9

531.3

73.8

605.1

260.8

865.9

148.5

1,014.4

(105.4)

–

–

–

909.0

558.6

1,467.6

8,364

10.9%

473.3

–

473.3

208.6

681.9

147.1

829.0

–

–

–

–

829.0

542.6

1,371.6

8,561

9.7%

2020
$m

3,607.2

(29.3)

3,577.9

4,357.7

7,935.6

45.1%

2020
$m

3,577.9

(251.6)

3,326.3

4,357.7

7,684.0

43.3%

11.2

(8.0)

3.2

(7.8)

(4.6)

(0.1)

(4.7)

-

(13.2)

25.1

(0.5)

6.7

0.2

6.9

2019
$m

3,369.8

(25.2)

3,344.6

4,677.4

8,022.0

41.7%

2019
$m

3,344.6

(229.5)

3,115.1

4,677.4

7,792.5

40.0%

109

FINANCIAL REPORT  Shareholder Information

RANGE OF FULLY PAID ORDINARY SHARES AS AT 4 AUGUST 2020

RANGE

1-1,000

1,001 – 5,000

5,001 – 10,000

10,001 – 100,000

100,001 Over

Total

18,220

22,703

2,990

1,933

79

45,925

11,359,678

50,264,205

21,753,244

38,689,820

1,792,575,885

1,914,642,832

TOTAL HOLDERS

UNITS % OF ISSUED CAPITAL

UNMARKETABLE PARCELS AS AT 4 AUGUST 2020

Minimum $500.00 parcel at $4.59 per unit

MINIMUM PARCEL SIZE

109

HOLDERS

904

The number of shareholders holding less than the marketable parcel of shares is 904 (shares: 43,178).

0.59

2.63

1.14

2.02

93.62

100.00

UNITS

43,178

SUBSTANTIAL HOLDERS OF 5% OR MORE OF FULLY PAID ORDINARY SHARES AS AT 4 AUGUST 2020*

NAME

The Vanguard Group Inc

BlackRock Group

* As disclosed in substantial shareholder notices received by the Company.

NOTICE DATE

20/12/2017

28/01/2019

SHARES

108,337,155

141,036,686

INVESTOR CALENDAR

2021 DATES

15 February 2021

29 March 2021

9 August 2021

DETAILS

Half Year results and interim dividend announcement 

Interim dividend payment date

Full Year results and final dividend announcement

20 September 2021

Final dividend payment date

12 October 2021

Annual General Meeting

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 to the Company website, 
aurizon.com.au, for an up-to-date list of upcoming events.

ASX code: AZJ

Investor Relations

Contact details
Aurizon 
GPO Box 456 
Brisbane QLD 4001

For general enquiries, please call 13 23 32 
within Australia. If you are calling from outside 
Australia, please dial +61 7 3019 9000.

aurizon.com.au

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 investorcentre.com.

To request information relating to Investor 
Relations please contact our Investor  
Relations team on +61 7 3019 1127 or email: 
investor.relations@aurizon.com.au.

110

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20 
 
 
TOP 20 HOLDERS OF FULLY PAID ORDINARY SHARES AS AT 4 AUGUST 2020

NAME

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED

J P MORGAN NOMINEES AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED

CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED

NATIONAL NOMINEES LIMITED

BNP PARIBAS NOMINEES PTY LTD 

QUEENSLAND TREASURY HOLDINGS PTY LTD

BNP PARIBAS NOMS PTY LTD 

CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED  

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED 

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED-GSCO ECA

NAVIGATOR AUSTRALIA LTD  

AMP LIFE LIMITED

AUSTRALIAN UNITED INVESTMENT COMPANY LIMITED

BNP PARIBAS NOMS (NZ) LTD 

NETWEALTH INVESTMENTS LIMITED 

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED 

DIVERSIFIED UNITED INVESTMENT LIMITED

WOODROSS NOMINEES PTY LTD

SANDHURST TRUSTEES LTD 

POWERWRAP LIMITED 

Totals: Top 20 holders of ORDINARY FULLY PAID SHARES (Total)

Total Remaining Holders Balance

UNITS

% OF UNITS

775,184,290

434,125,352

221,827,478

119,936,840

58,207,609

54,926,186

43,988,881

17,271,598

16,151,753

5,746,166

3,770,621

3,532,324

3,000,000

2,983,338

2,919,205

2,284,843

1,500,000

1,462,649

1,420,000

1,419,717

1,771,658,850

142,983,982

40.49

22.67

11.59

6.26

3.04

2.87

2.30

0.90

0.84

0.30

0.20

0.18

0.16

0.16

0.15

0.12

0.08

0.08

0.07

0.07

92.53

7.47

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

111

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

Above Rail
Includes the business unit segments of Coal, 
Bulk and Other of Aurizon Holdings Limited

ACN
Australian Company Number

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

Aurizon
Aurizon Holdings Limited (ABN 14 146 335 622) 
and where the context requires, includes any 
of its subsidiaries and controlled entities

Below Rail
The business unit segment of Network — 
Aurizon Network Pty Ltd (ACN 132 181 116) 
a wholly owned subsidiary of Aurizon 
Holdings Limited

Coal
The Above Rail coal haulage operating division 
of Aurizon Holdings Limited

Company or Aurizon Holdings
Aurizon Holdings Limited (ACN 146 335 622) 
and where the context requires, includes any 
of its subsidiaries and controlled entities

Company Secretary
The Company Secretary of Aurizon Holdings 
Limited

Constitution
The constitution of Aurizon Holdings Limited

Corporations Act
Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)

CPS
Cents Per Share

CQCN
Central Queensland Coal Network

EBIT
Earnings Before Interest and Tax

EBITDA
Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation 
and Amortisation

Board
The Board of Directors of Aurizon Holdings 
Limited

EBIT Margin
Underlying Earnings Before Interest and Tax 
divided by total revenue and other income

Bulk
The Above Rail freight haulage operating 
division of Aurizon Holdings Limited

CAGR
Compound Annual Growth Rate, expressed as 
a percentage per year

CAPEX
Capital Expenditure

CGT
Capital Gains Tax

EEO
Energy Efficiency Opportunity

EEO Act
Energy Efficiency Opportunity Act 2006 (Cth)

EPS
Earnings Per Share

FY
Financial Year ended 30 June, as the context 
requires

GAP
Goonyella to Abbot Point

112

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20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 Export Terminal

WIRP
Wiggins Island Rail Project

GAPE
Goonyella to Abbot Point Expansion

OP – Operating Ratio
1 – EBIT margin, expressed as a percentage

GAAP
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

IBNR
Incurred But Not Reported

IFRS
International Financial Reporting Standards

km
Kilometre

LTIA
Long Term Incentive Awards

M
Million

MAR
Maximum Allowable Revenue that Aurizon 
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

OPEX
Operating Expense including depreciation 
and amortisation

OTHER
A business unit segment of Aurizon 
Holdings Limited

PPT
Percentage Point

QCA
Queensland Competition Authority

RAB
Regulated Asset Base, the value of the asset 
base on which pricing is determined by the 
price regulator

Rail Process Safety
The cumulative number of SPAD, derailment 
and rollingstock to rollingstock collision 
incidents, per million train kilometres, over 
a given recording period

Note: Infrastructure Caused SPADs have been 
removed from the SPAD element of Aurizon’s 
Rail Process Safety metric

ROIC
Return on Invested Capital

Network
Aurizon Network Pty Ltd (ACN 132 181 116) a 
wholly-owned subsidiary of Aurizon Holdings

Share
A fully paid ordinary share in Aurizon Holdings

NGER
National Greenhouse Energy Reporting

STIA
Short Term Incentive Award

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

tonne
One metric tonne, being 1,000 kilograms

tonne kilometres
The product of tonnes and distance

TRIFR
The cumulative number of Lost Time Injuries, 
Medical Treatment Injuries and Restricted 
Work Injuries sustained by employees and 
contractors, per million hours worked, over 
a given recording period

GLOSSARY

113

Corporate Information

Aurizon Holdings Limited 
ABN 14 146 335 622

Directors
Tim Poole 
Andrew Harding 
Marcelo Bastos 
Russell Caplan 
Michael Fraser 
Samantha Lewis 
Sarah Ryan 
Lyell Strambi 
Kate Vidgen

Company Secretary
Dominic D Smith

Registered Office
Level 8, 900 Ann Street  
Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

Auditors
PricewaterhouseCoopers

Share Registry 
Computershare Investor Services Pty Limited

Level 1, 200 Mary Street 
Brisbane QLD 4001

Tel: 1800 776 476 
(or +61 3 9938 4376)

114

AURIZON ANNUAL REPORT 2019–20D
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Aurizon Holdings Limited 
ABN 14 146 335 622