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Biotron Limited

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FY2020 Annual Report · Biotron Limited
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Annual Report
2020

BIOTRON LIMITED  
ABN 60 086 399 144

 
 
 
 
 
Contents

Operating and Financial Review ...................................................................................................... 1

Corporate Governance Statement .................................................................................................. 6

Directors’ Report .............................................................................................................................. 7

Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration ....................................................................................17

Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income .................................................18

Statement of Financial Position ....................................................................................................19

Statement of Changes in Equity ....................................................................................................20

Statement of Cash Flows ...............................................................................................................21

Notes to the Financial Statements ................................................................................................22

Directors’ Declaration ....................................................................................................................42

Independent Auditor’s Report .......................................................................................................43

Additional Stock Exchange Information .......................................................................................46

Corporate Directory ........................................................................................................................48

Operating and Financial Review

Review of Operations
Biotron Limited (‘Biotron’ or ‘the Company’) has completed several significant milestones during the 
2019-2020 financial year.  These include:

Appointment of an international Scientific Advisory Board for Biotron’s HIV-1 drug development 
program.
Appointment of a Chief Medical Officer to advise the Company on its HIV-1 development program.
Presentation of new data from the BIT225-009 Phase 2 HIV-1 clinical trial at an international HIV-1 
conference in March 2020.
Acceptance in June 2020 of a late-breaker abstract for presentation of key BIT225 HIV-1 data at the 
23rd International AIDS Conference in July 2020.
Strengthening of the Company’s intellectual property position with the filing of two new patent 
applications, expanding the use of Biotron’s lead drug BIT225 and other Biotron anti-HIV-1 
compounds.
Completion of toxicology studies of BIT225 to support long-term dosing of humans in future trials.
Expanding its antiviral screening program to include SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19.
Continuation of designing, synthesising and testing new compounds under its Hepatitis B program.
Receipt of $753,026 under the Australian Government R&D Tax Incentive scheme.
Raising $5.3 million in capital from the exercise of Company options.

HIV-1 Program
During the 2019-2020 Financial Year, the Company’s 
HIV-1 clinical program has remained at the forefront of 
development activities.

Since completing its successful BIT225-009 Phase 2  
HIV-1 clinical trial in late 2018, Biotron has been 
focused on extending its understanding of the unique 
mechanism of action of its lead anti-HIV-1 drug 
BIT225.  BIT225 is a first-in-class small-molecule 
anti-viral compound that works to inhibit the viroporin 
mechanism of Viral Protein U (Vpu).  Vpu is a protein 
that HIV uses in the assembly of new virus particles and 
in the “budding” of new viruses from the host cell and 
also plays a key role in modulating the body’s immune 
system to allow the virus to establish and maintain an 
infection.

The Company has previously reported that the Phase 2  
trial showed that BIT225 induced statistically 
significant changes to key immune cell populations.  
These changes have not been seen in any trials using 
currently approved anti-HIV-1 drugs.

Ongoing post-trial analyses are providing key 
information on how BIT225 induces the significant 
immunological changes observed in the trial.  In 
March this year, Biotron presented new data from the 
Phase 2 trial at an international scientific conference, 
further characterising the previously reported immune 
modulating effects of BIT225.  The new data showed that 
BIT225 “unmasks” HIV-infected cells that remain in the 
body despite treatment with approved anti-HIV-1 drugs.

These infected reservoir cells are usually hidden from 
the immune system and are the reason why life-long 
drugs are necessary to keep the HIV-1 infection under 
control.  The data indicate that the addition of BIT225 
to anti-HIV-1 drugs stimulates the innate immune 
system so that the body’s cells can “see” the HIV-infected  
reservoir cells and take the necessary steps to 
eliminate any residual virus.

While current antiretroviral treatment (ART) drugs are 
extremely efficient at clearing the HIV-1 virus, they do 
not clear cellular reservoirs.  Because of this, HIV-infected  
people must take drugs for their lifetime to keep virus 
under control.

Annual Report 2020

1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating and Financial Review

Eradication of virus from hidden reservoirs is key to 
further improving health outcomes in this population 
and also key to any strategy to cure patients infected 
with HIV-1.

In mid-2020, Biotron presented additional data on 
BIT225 at the 23rd International AIDS Conference (AIDS 
2020).  The data showed how BIT225 directly modifies 
immune responses to HIV-1 infection and helps explain 
the positive immune changes that were reported in 
the Phase 2 clinical trial.  The data help to explain how 
BIT225 “unmasks” HIV-infected cells and promotes 
immune recognition of the virus.  Immune system 
recognition initiates the host defence processes 
including the clearance of virus.  In combination with 
results from the Phase 2 clinical trial, these latest 
results support further clinical study of the potential 
anti-viral and immunological benefits of BIT225 
therapy in combination with ART.

BIT225 is unique.  It is the first of its kind to act as 
both a direct-acting antiviral drug and an immune 
enhancer.  Taken together, the research undertaken 
over the last 12 months has provided a more detailed 
understanding of how the addition of BIT225 to anti-
HIV-1 drugs stimulates the body’s immune system so 
that it can find HIV-infected reservoir cells and take 
the necessary steps to eliminate any residual virus.  
This effect of “unmasking” infected cells within cellular 
reservoirs would solve a huge problem in treating HIV-1 
by allowing the body's immune system to work together 
with the anti-HIV drugs to clear out inaccessible 
pockets of virus and annihilate the infection for good 
– opening up the potential for HIV-infected people to 
avoid lifetime drug treatment.

Since the end of the year in review, in July 2020 Biotron 
appointed Stephen Becker MD as Chief Medical Officer 
(CMO) to oversee the next stage of BIT225’s clinical 
development.  Dr Becker has extensive experience 
as a product development executive, clinician and 
researcher with specific focus on the therapeutic areas 
of HIV, infectious diseases and immunology.  Based in 
the USA, he brings solid clinical experience plus years 
of experience in a similar role in the industry, as well 
as time in a senior role with the Bill & Melinda Gates 
Foundation.

Dr Becker’s connections with pharmaceutical 
companies, USA government organisations, 
philanthropic organisations, as well as his knowledge 
of regulatory and policy issues relating to development 
and approvals of new drugs bring essential skills at this 
critical stage of the Company’s development.

Dr Becker’s appointment follows on from the 
establishment during the first half of the financial 
year of an expert Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) for 
its HIV-1 clinical development program.  The SAB is an 
international group of experts with broad experience 
within the HIV-1 field, covering clinical development of 
HIV-1 therapies.  The members are highly regarded by 
academia and industry and have experience advising 
pharmaceutical industry on new treatment strategies, 
including HIV-1 cure.  The group augments the support 
that Biotron receives from key opinion leaders, 
academics and industry participants across its antiviral 
programs and will be central to the development of 
Biotron’s lead drug, BIT225.

The existing Phase 2 trial data are showing us and, 
importantly, potential partners how BIT225 may play 
a role in the eradication of HIV-1.  The results are 
encouraging and may have profound implications for 
the future treatment and cure of HIV-1 infection.

The next step in the development of BIT225 is to refine 
how it should be used in the clinic, based on the latest 
data.  This will likely require a Phase 2b clinical trial to 
convert the statistically significant immune markers 
changes seen in the completed Phase 2 trial into 
statistically significant changes in clinical outcomes.  
The recent completion of long-term toxicology studies 
of BIT225 is an important milestone as they support 
long-term dosing of BIT225 in the next stage of 
clinical development and beyond.  The expertise of the 
Company’s CMO and the SAB, together with feedback 
from industry and regulatory agencies are central to 
mapping out this next stage of development. 

The Company is focused on achieving a commercial 
outcome for its promising antiviral programs whilst 
continuing to progress its clinical HIV-1 program to 
prepare for more advanced clinical trials.

The existing Phase 2 trial data are showing us and, importantly, 
potential partners how BIT225 may play a role in the eradication 
of HIV-1.  The results are encouraging and may have profound 
implications for the future treatment and cure of HIV-1 infection.

2

Biotron Limited

Operating and Financial Review

Within Biotron’s anti-viroporin library are compounds 
that have shown good activity against a range of 
coronaviruses, based on studies that were undertaken 
at the time of outbreak of severe acute respiratory 
syndrome (SARS-1) – which was a coronavirus – back 
in 2002-2004.  The Company’s scientists were the first 
to identify and publish data showing that the E protein 
of the coronavirus is a viroporin and a good target for 
antiviral drugs.

In February this year, Biotron began testing a range 
of its compounds against SARS-CoV-2, the causative 
agent of COVID-19, to assess whether they can inhibit 
this new coronavirus.  This work is progressing well in 
a series of different assays to assess impact of the 
compounds on markers of virus replication as well as 
immune markers.  These assays will provide the best 
overall understanding of the potential of Biotron’s 
compounds to treat COVID-19.

Biotron remains focused on progressing its antiviral 
programs directed at viroporins through to a 
commercial outcome.  The current pandemic highlights 
the importance of novel approaches such as Biotron’s 
with its potential to target a broad range of existing 
and emerging viruses.

The Company’s scientists were the 
first to identify and publish data 
showing that the E protein of the 
coronavirus is a viroporin and a good 
target for antiviral drugs.

Hepatitis B Virus Program 
In addition to its HIV-1 clinical program, Biotron 
continues to progress its Hepatitis B virus (HBV) 
program.  Like HIV-1, HBV can be treated with drugs 
that stop the virus replicating, but these do not 
eradicate the virus.  Chronic infection with HBV can lead 
to complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer, 
which cause close to one million deaths worldwide 
each year.  Over 2 billion people worldwide have been 
infected with HBV.  The World Health Organisation 
estimates that over 250 million are chronically infected.

The Company continues to design, synthesise and 
test new compounds with the aim of identifying a lead 
candidate.  Biotron is working with other experienced 
groups to access key assays.  Ongoing pre-clinical 
studies in cell culture models have demonstrated that 
Biotron compounds have significant anti-viral activity 
against HBV, reducing levels of cccDNA (covalently 
closed circular DNA), as well as other key viral markers.  
Biotron’s compounds have a unique mechanism 
of action and are expected to generate significant 
interest from potential partners in Biotron’s family of 
compounds.

Characterisation of the mechanism of action of the 
HBV compounds is continuing, and the focus is on 
identifying and selecting a lead drug candidate to take 
forward to safety studies as quickly as possible.

Coronavirus
Biotron’s core expertise lies in the design and 
development of drugs that target virus-encoded 
proteins known as viroporins.  Viroporins are found 
in a broad range of viruses and play key roles in 
viral pathogenesis.  Viroporins are central to viruses 
modifying host immune responses so that they 
can fly under the radar and establish and maintain 
ongoing cycles of infection.  Biotron has designed and 
developed a library of compounds that target viroporins 
from a broad range of different viruses that cause 
serious infections in humans and other hosts.

Annual Report 2020

3

Operating and Financial Review

Commercialisation
Development of new drugs is a slow, measured 
process.  The strict international regulatory and safety 
requirements mean that there are no shortcuts to 
the development of new drugs.  Similarly, beneficial 
partnerships in the biopharmaceutical industry take 
time.  They are dependent on good science, addressing 
clear unmet medical needs, and rigorous data.

Biotron’s core antiviral programs have all these key 
elements.

Biotron is focused on achieving a commercial outcome 
for its antiviral programs.  The Company has been 
sharing information on its antiviral programs with 
potential partners in the pharmaceutical industry 
since early preclinical development.  This has included 
regular updates on progress and discussions of the 
next stage of development.  The Company has good 
relationships with the pharmaceutical companies 
active in this space and ongoing dialogue on these 
programs is ongoing and progressing.

Discussions with pharmaceutical companies are 
iterative in nature.  Every successful series of 
experiments or clinical trial generates another series of 
questions that will guide the decision-making process 
on the side of commercial partners.  Good, well founded 
science is core to success.  Biotech companies, 

such as Biotron, also need to demonstrate how their 
drug(s) will fit within a changing treatment landscape, 
especially with new mode of action drugs such as 
BIT225.  The Company is consulting with internationally 
recognised HIV-1 experts with extensive expertise in 
clinical development of HIV-1 treatments, as well as 
experience in advising the pharmaceutical industry.  
The aim is to map out the next stage of clinical 
development based on the latest data.

The positive outcomes from the body of Biotron’s 
work to date mean that the Company is able to 
continue discussions with key potential partners with 
compelling Phase 2 data in hand.  Phase 2 is generally 
considered the best time to license technology to 
a major pharmaceutical company as they have the 
expertise and resources necessary for late stage 
clinical development and regulatory approvals in major 
markets such as the USA.  This is not a rapid process, 
nor is there a guarantee of a successful commercial 
outcome.

Sharing of data and ongoing discussions are continuing 
throughout the COVID-19 outbreak.  We appreciate 
the ongoing support and patience of shareholders 
while we work to achieve the long-awaited commercial 
outcomes.

4

Biotron Limited

 
Operating and Financial Review

Patents
Biotron continues to progress patents related to its 
antiviral programs through the international patenting 
process.  The Company recognises that the key to 
establishment of partnerships is the expansion and 
continued strengthening of Biotron’s intellectual 
property portfolio.  Strong, defensible, international 
patents are essential to attract partners and to ensure 

Title

Status

a competitive advantage for the Company’s products in 
the marketplace.

During the 2019-2020 financial year the Company has 
expanded its portfolio with the filing of new patent 
applications that expand the use of Biotron’s lead drug 
BIT225 and other Biotron anti-HIV-1 compounds.

WO04112687
Antiviral compounds and methods
Priority – 26 June 2003

WO06135978
Antiviral compounds and methods 
Priority – 24 June 2005

WO2009/018609
Hepatitis C antiviral compounds  
and methods
Priority – 3 August 2007

WO/2018/145148
Methods of Treating Influenza
Priority – 8 February 2017

Provisional (New)
Methods of Treating HIV-1 Infection
Priority – 26 November 2019

Granted in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Japan, Korea, 
New Zealand, Singapore, USA and South Africa

Under examination elsewhere (Europe and Hong Kong)

Granted in Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, China, 
Germany, Denmark, Spain, Finland, France, United Kingdom, 
Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Monaco, The 
Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, Singapore, 
Turkey, South Africa and USA

Under examination elsewhere (Brazil, India)

Granted in Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, China, 
Germany, Denmark, Spain, Finland, France, United Kingdom, 
Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Monaco, The 
Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, Singapore, 
Turkey and South Africa

Under examination in elsewhere (Brazil, India, and USA)

Application filed in Australia, China, Europe, Guatemala, Hong Kong, 
Japan, Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, El Salvador, 
Thailand, USA and South Africa

Applications filed in USA and Australia

Corporate
During the 2019-2020 financial year, the Company 
raised a total of $5,311,343 before costs from the 
exercise of options.  This significant injection of funds 
places the Company in a sound financial position as 
it focuses on achieving commercial outcomes for its 
programs.

The Company also received $753,026 under the 
Australian Government R&D Tax Incentive scheme.

During the next financial year, the Company will be 
focused on:

•  Progressing the design and implementation of the 
next stage of clinical development of BIT225 in 
consultation with its SAB and relevant industry and 
regulatory input.

•  Ongoing sharing of data and discussions on its 
antiviral programs including the HIV-1 Phase 2 
clinical trial with potential pharmaceutical company 
partners regarding commercialisation opportunities 
for the Company’s antiviral intellectual property.

•  Undertaking additional in vitro cell-based 

preclinical testing of compounds for the HBV 
program, including screening of newly designed 
and synthesised compounds for potential anti-HBV 
activity with the aim of identifying a lead compound 
to progress to clinical development. 

•  Continued testing of Biotron compounds for activity 

against other key commercially relevant virus 
targets including SARS-CoV-2.

Annual Report 2020

5

 
Operating and Financial Review

Subsequent Events
No matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affected or may 
significantly affect the operations of the Company, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the 
Company in future financial years.

We look forward to the next year with confidence.

Michael J. Hoy 
Chairman 

Michelle Miller
Managing Director

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT
The Board is committed to maintaining the highest standards of Corporate Governance. Corporate Governance is 
about having a set of core values and behaviours that underpin the Company's activities and ensure transparency, 
fair dealing and protection of the interests of stakeholders.  The Company has reviewed its corporate governance 
practices against the Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations (3rd edition) published by the ASX 
Corporate Governance Council.

The 2020 Corporate Governance Statement, dated as at and approved by the Board on 27 August 2020, reflects 
the corporate governance practices throughout the 2020 financial year.  A description of the Company’s current 
corporate governance practices is set out in the Company’s corporate governance statement which can be viewed at 
http://www.biotron.com.au/corporate-governance.

6

Biotron Limited

Directors’ Report

Directors
The names and particulars of the directors of the 
Company at any time during or since the end of the 
financial year are:

Mr Michael J. Hoy

Dr Susan M. Pond AM, MD DSc, FTSE FAHMS

Independent and Non-Executive Chairman

Independent and Non-Executive Director

Mr Hoy has more than 30 years’ corporate experience 
in Australia, the United Kingdom, USA and Asia. He is 
Chairman of Lipotek Pty Limited and a former director 
of John Fairfax Holdings Limited and FXF Trust.

Mr Hoy has been a director since 7 February 2000 and 
Chairman since 16 March 2000.

Dr Michelle Miller, BSc, MSc, PhD, GCertAppFin 
(Finsia)

Managing Director

Dr Miller has worked for over 25 years in the bioscience 
industry, with extensive experience in commercial drug 
development. She completed her PhD in the Faculty of 
Medicine at Sydney University investigating molecular 
models of cancer development. Her experience 
includes several years at Johnson & Johnson 
developing anti-HIV gene therapeutics through 
preclinical research to clinical trials. She has finance 
industry experience from time spent as an Investment 
Manager with a specialist bioscience venture capital 
fund.

Dr Miller was appointed as Managing Director on 21 
June 2002.

Dr Pond has a strong scientific and commercial 
background having held executive positions in the 
biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry for 12 
years, most recently as chairman and managing 
director of Johnson & Johnson Research Pty Limited 
(2003 - 2009). Previous non-executive positions 
include chair of AusBiotech Limited and director 
of Australian Nuclear Science and Technology 
Organisation, Wound Management Innovation CRC and 
Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and 
Engineering (ATSE). Dr Pond also served as a board 
member of Commercialisation Australia and Innovation 
Australia. 

Dr Pond is currently chair of the New South Wales 
Smart Sensing Network, director of the Trusted 
Autonomous Systems Defence Cooperative Research 
Centre, Vectus Biosystems Ltd, Cannatrek Ltd and the 
Australian Phenomics Network and Governor in Council 
of the Queensland University of Technology.  She is a 
Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, 
the Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering, 
the Academy of Health and Medical Sciences and the 
Royal Society of NSW.

Dr Pond holds a first-class honours degree in 
Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the University 
of Sydney and a Doctor of Medicine degree from 
the University of New South Wales. She obtained 
specialist clinical credentials in internal medicine, 
clinical pharmacology and clinical toxicology and held 
academic appointments at the University of California, 
San Francisco and the University of Queensland before 
joining industry.

Dr Pond was appointed as a director on 7 March 2012.

Annual Report 2020

7

Directors’ Report

Mr Robert B. Thomas BEc, MSDIA, SF Fin, FICD

Independent and Non-Executive Director

Mr Thomas has over 35 years’ experience in the 
securities industry, with Potter Partners (now UBS), 
County NatWest and Citigroup.

He is the chairman of Starpharma Holdings Limited.  
He chairs Grahger Retail Securities Pty Ltd and is a 
director of O’Connell Street Associates Pty Limited.

Mr Thomas has a Bachelor of Economics degree from 
Monash University (1963 - 1966). He has been a 
member of the Securities Institute of Australia since 
1976 and was appointed as a Fellow to the Institute in 
1997. He is a Master Stockbroker and is a Fellow of the 
Institute of Company Directors.

Mr Thomas was appointed as a director on 7 March 
2012.

Prof Stephen Locarnini, BSc(Hons), PhD, MBBS, 
FRC(Path)

Independent and Non-Executive Director

Professor Locarnini is a past director of the World 
Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Reference 
Laboratory for Hepatitis B and D for the Western 
Pacific Region (WPRO). His current major research 
interests include viral hepatitis, hepatitis vaccines 
and antiviral chemotherapy with an emphasis on 
the basic virology of the various agents of hepatitis, 
the molecular pathogenesis of hepatitis, as well as 
prevention and public health control measures.

Curative treatments for hepatitis B infections 
with antiviral agents represent the current focus 
for Professor Locarnini who is also interested in 
intellectual property issues when applied to clinical and 
diagnostic virology. He is a named inventor on over 20 
internationally granted patents.

He worked at the Victorian Infectious Diseases 
Reference Laboratory (VIDRL, originally Fairfield 
Hospital Virus Laboratory) from 1989, as Director of 
Laboratory Services from 1990 to 1998 and, in 1993, 
he oversaw the amalgamation of all the Fairfield 
Laboratories into the one service of the VIDRL. He 
subsequently assumed the position of Head, Research 
& Molecular Development of VIDRL when the laboratory 
relocated to Melbourne Health in 1998.

Professor Locarnini is the recipient of numerous 
awards including the European Association for the 
Study of Liver Disease (EASL) International Recognition 
Award in 2010, the Malaysian Liver Foundation’s 
Medal for work on Viral Hepatitis in 2003 and the 
Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA) 
Distinguished Research Prize in 2013. In 2019 he 
received the William H. Prusoff HEP DART Lifetime 
Achievement Award. He is author of 289 peer-reviewed 
articles, 24 invited editorials and 100 book chapters 
and reviews and every year delivers numerous invited, 
plenary, and named lectures at major international 
meetings and conferences.

Professor Locarnini currently has an academic 
appointment at the University of Melbourne.

He is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board 
of a number of emerging as well as established 
pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. In 2017, 
he co-founded the biotech start-up company CLEAR-B 
with the Morningside-Newton Investment group in 
Boston, USA focusing on curative strategies for chronic 
hepatitis B. He is also the Hepatitis Virus Editor for 
Antiviral Therapy.

Professor Locarnini was appointed as a Director on 23 
October 2018.

Mr Peter J. Nightingale

Company Secretary

Mr Nightingale graduated with a Bachelor of 
Economics degree from the University of Sydney and is 
a member of the Chartered Accountants Australia and 
New Zealand. He has worked as a chartered accountant 
in both Australia and the USA.

As a director or company secretary Mr Nightingale 
has, for more than 25 years, been responsible for 
the financial control, administration, secretarial and 
in-house legal functions of a number of private and 
public listed companies in Australia, the USA and 
Europe including Argent Minerals Limited, Bolnisi 
Gold N.L., Cockatoo Coal Limited, Callabonna Uranium 
Limited, Mogul Mining N.L., Pangea Resources Limited, 
Perseverance Corporation Limited, Sky Metals Limited 
(previously Planet Gas Limited) Sumatra Copper & 
Gold plc, Timberline Minerals, Inc. and Valdora Minerals 
N.L. Mr Nightingale is currently a director of Alpha
HPA Limited, Nickel Mines Limited and unlisted public
company Prospech Limited.

Mr Nightingale has been Company Secretary since 23 
February 1999.

8

Biotron Limited

Directors’ Report

Directors’ Meetings
The number of directors’ meetings held and number of meetings attended by each of the directors of the Company, 
while they were a director, during the year are:

Director

Michael J. Hoy

Michelle Miller

Susan M. Pond

Robert B. Thomas

Stephen Locarnini

Directors’ Meetings

No. of Eligible Meetings to Attend

No. of Meetings Attended

7

7

7

7

7

7

7

7

7

7

Remuneration Committee Meetings
The remuneration committee meets when required to review matters concerning the committee. During the year, no 
meetings were held.

Directors’ Interests
At the date of this report, the beneficial interests of each director of the Company in the issued share capital of the 
Company and options, each exercisable to acquire one fully paid ordinary share of the Company are:

Directors

Michael J. Hoy

Michelle Miller

Fully Paid  
Ordinary Shares

9,347,793

3,156,250

Options

-

Option Terms 
(Exercise Price and Term)

5,000,000
1,000,000
1,000,000

1 $0.25 from 26 November 2019 up to 29 November 2021
2 $0.20 from 26 November 2020 up to 29 November 2022
2 $0.20 from 26 November 2021 up to 29 November 2023

Susan M. Pond

Robert B. Thomas

Stephen Locarnini

654,295

3,663,195

800,000

-

-

-

1  Vesting date is subject to the completion of a commercialisation transaction.
2  Vesting conditions are based on minimum service periods being achieved.

Following shareholder approval in November 2019, 5,000,000 unlisted options with an exercise price of $0.25 and 
2,000,000 unlisted options with an exercise price of $0.20 were granted to Michelle Miller. 

There were no options over unissued ordinary shares granted as compensation to directors or executives of the 
Company during or since the end of the financial year.

Annual Report 2020

9

Directors’ Report

Unissued Shares Under Option
At the date of this report, unissued ordinary shares of the Company under option are:

Number of Options

Exercise Price

1 5,000,000

2 1,000,000

2 1,000,000

2 5,000,000

$0.25

$0.20

$0.20

$0.20

Expiry Date

29 November 2021

29 November 2022

29 November 2023

31 January 2023

1  Vesting date is subject to the completion of a commercialisation transaction.
2  Vesting conditions are based on minimum service periods being achieved.

All options expire on the earlier of their expiry date or termination of the employee’s employment provided the 
exercise period has been reached. In the event that the employment of the option holder is terminated, any options 
which have not reached their exercise period will lapse and any options which have reached their exercise period may 
be exercised within two months of the date of termination of employment. Any options not exercised within this two 
month period will lapse. The persons entitled to exercise the options do not have, by virtue of the options, the right to 
participate in a share issue of the Company or any other body corporate.

Shares Issued on Exercise of Options
During or since the end of the financial year, the Company issued ordinary shares as a result of the exercise of 
options as follows (there are no amounts unpaid on the shares issued):

Number of Shares

106,226,853

Amount paid on each share

$0.05

Principal Activities
The principal activities of the Company during the financial year were the funding and management of intermediate 
and applied biotechnology research and development projects.

Financial Result and Review of Operations
The operating loss of the Company for the financial year after income tax was $3,575,959 (2019 - $1,611,799 loss).

A review of the Company’s operations for the year is set out in the Operating and Financial Review.

Impact of Legislation and Other External Requirements
There were no changes in environmental or other legislative requirements during the year that have significantly 
impacted the results or operations of the Company.

Dividends
The directors recommend that no dividend be paid by the Company. No dividend has been paid or declared since the 
end of the previous financial year.

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 year ended 30 June 2020.

10

Biotron Limited

Directors’ Report

Environmental Regulations
The Company’s operations are not subject to significant environmental regulations under Commonwealth or State 
legislation in relation to its research projects.

Events Subsequent to Balance Date
There has not arisen in the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report any item, 
transaction or event of a material and unusual nature likely, in the opinion of the directors of the Company, to affect 
significantly the operations of the Company, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the Company in 
future financial years.

Likely Developments
During the year ended 30 June 2020, the Company continued to fund and manage its research and development 
projects. The success of these research projects, which cannot be assessed on the same fundamentals as trading 
and manufacturing enterprises, will determine future likely developments.

Indemnification of Officers and Auditors
During or since the end of the financial year, the Company has not indemnified or made a relevant agreement to 
indemnify an officer or auditor of the Company against a liability incurred by such an officer or auditor. In addition, 
the Company has not paid or agreed to pay, a premium in respect of a contract insuring against a liability incurred by 
an officer or auditor.

Remuneration Report - Audited

Principles of compensation - Audited

Key management personnel have authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of 
the Company. Key management personnel comprise the directors of the Company and the Company Secretary. No 
other employees have been deemed to be key management personnel.

The policy of remuneration of directors and senior executives is to ensure the remuneration package properly 
reflects the person’s duties and responsibilities, and that remuneration is competitive in attracting, retaining and 
motivating people of the highest quality. The Board is responsible for reviewing its own performance. The non-
executive directors are responsible for evaluating the performance of the executive directors who, in turn, evaluate 
the performance of all other senior executives. The evaluation process is intended to assess the Company’s 
business performance, whether long term strategic objectives are being achieved and the achievement of individual 
performance objectives.

Remuneration generally comprises salary and superannuation. Longer term incentives are able to be provided 
through the Company’s Incentive Option Plan which acts to align the directors and senior executives’ actions with 
the interests of the shareholders. The vesting conditions of options issued under the plan are based on a minimum 
service periods being achieved. 

In the event that the employment or office of the option holder is terminated, any options which have not reached 
their exercise period will lapse and any options which have reached their exercise period may be exercised within 
two months of the date of termination of employment. Any options not exercised within this two month period will 
lapse. The remuneration disclosed below represents the cost to the Company for the services provided under these 
arrangements.

No directors or senior executives receive performance related remuneration in the prior year.

There were no remuneration consultants used by the Company during the year ended 30 June 2020 or in the prior 
year.

Annual Report 2020

11

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report - Audited (Cont.)

Consequences of performance on shareholder wealth - Audited

In considering the Company’s performance and benefits for shareholders wealth, the Board have regard to the 
following indices in respect of the current financial year and the previous four financial years.

Net loss attributable to equity 
holders of the Company

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

$3,575,959 

$1,611,799 

$1,593,645

$3,093,405

$3,004,303

Dividends paid

-

-

-

-

-

Change in share price

0.07 cents

0.05 cents

(0.1) cents

(4.0) cents

(7.0) cents

The overall level of key management personnel’s compensation is assessed on the basis of market conditions, status 
of the Company’s projects, and financial performance of the Company.

Details of remuneration for the year ended 30 June 2020 - Audited

Details of director and senior executive remuneration and the nature and amount of each major element of the 
remuneration of each director of the Company, and other key management personnel of the Company are set out 
below:

Primary 
Fees 
$

Super- 
annuation 
$

Share Based 
Payments 
- Options 
$

Long term 
benefits 
$

Value of Options 
as a % of 
Remuneration

Total 
$

Directors

Non-executive

Michael J. Hoy 
(Chairman)

Susan M. Pond

Robert B. Thomas

Stephen Locarnini 1.

Executive

Year

2020
2019

2020
2019

2020
2019

2020
2019

74,853
70,356

39,922
37,523

39,922
37,523

39,922
26,221

7,272
6,684

3,878
3,565

3,878
3,565

3,878
2,491

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-

-
-

82,125
77,040

43,800
41,088

43,800
41,088

43,800
28,712

Michelle Miller
(Managing Director)

2020
2019

323,285
307,191

31,233
29,183

21,338
-

5,481
14,886

381,337
351,260

Executives

Peter J. Nightingale
(Company Secretary)

2020
2019

84,000
78,000

-
-

-
-

-
-

84,000
78,000

1. Appointed as a director on 23 October 2018.

No bonuses were paid during the financial year. Options granted to Michelle Miller include performance based 
vesting conditions, refer below for further details. No performance based component of remuneration existed in the 
prior period. The Company employed no other key management personnel.

12

Biotron Limited

-
-

-

-

-

6%
-

-
-

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report - Audited (Cont.)

Options granted as compensation – Audited

Details of options granted as compensation to each key management person:

Director

Grant Date

Number of  
Options Granted

Fair Value at  
Grant Date

Option Terms  
(Exercise Price and Term)

Michelle Miller

26 November 2019

1 5,000,000

$30,625

Michelle Miller

26 November 2019

2 1,000,000

$14,215

Michelle Miller

26 November 2019

2 1,000,000

$19,502

$0.25 from 26 November 2019  
to 29 November 2021

$0.20 from 26 November 2020  
to 29 November 2022

$0.20 from 26 November 2021  
to 29 November 2023

1 Vesting date is subject to the completion of a commercialisation transaction.
2 Vesting conditions are based on minimum service periods being achieved.

During the year, Michelle Miller was granted 7,000,000 options as compensation and no options were granted during 
the 2019 financial years. The number of options that vested as at 30 June 2020 was nil (2019 was nil). 

• 

• 

• 

The fair value of the 5,000,000 options at grant date was determined based on a Black- Scholes formula. The 
model inputs of the options issued, were the Company’s share price of $0.064 at the grant date, a volatility factor 
of 75.77% based on historic share price performance, a risk free rate of 0.77% based on the 2 year government 
bond rate and no dividends paid. The value also considered the vesting conditions in relation to the options.

The fair value of the 1,000,000 options at grant date was determined based on a Black- Scholes formula. The 
model inputs of the options issued, were the Company’s share price of $0.064 at the grant date, a volatility factor 
of 75.77% based on historic share price performance, a risk free rate of 0.73% based on the 3 year government 
bond rate and no dividends paid.

The fair value of the 1,000,000 options at grant date was determined based on a Black- Scholes formula. The 
model inputs of the options issued, were the Company’s share price of $0.064 at the grant date, a volatility factor 
of 75.77% based on historic share price performance, a risk free rate of 0.81% based on the 5 year government 
bond rate and no dividends paid.

During 2019 Michelle Miller exercised 5,000,000 options. No options lapsed during the 2020 and 2019 financial 
years.

Modification of terms of equity-settled share-based payment transactions - Audited

No terms of equity-settled share-based payment transactions (including options granted as compensation to a key 
management person) have been altered or modified by the Company during the 2020 financial year.

Exercise of options granted as compensation - Audited

There were no shares issued on the exercise of options previously granted as compensation during 2020 and  
5 Million shares were issued on the exercise of options during 2019.

Annual Report 2020

13

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report - Audited (Cont.)

Analysis of options and rights over equity instruments granted as compensation - Audited

All options refer to options over ordinary shares of Biotron Limited, which are exercisable on a one-for-one basis.

Options granted

Director

Number

% vested  
at year end

Exercised/forfeited 
during the year

Balance  
at year end

Financial year in  
which grant vests

Date

Michelle Miller

5,000,000 26 November 2019

1,000,000 26 November 2019

1,000,000 26 November 2019

23%

37%

23%

-

-

-

5,000,000

1 30 June 2022

1,000,000

2 30 June 2021

1,000,000

2 30 June 2022

1 Vesting date is subject to the completion of a commercialisation transaction.
2 Vesting conditions are based on minimum service periods being achieved.

The number of options that had vested as at 30 June 2020 is nil (2019 - nil). No options were granted subsequent to 
year end.

Analysis of movements in options ganted as compensation - Audited

Director

Michelle Miller

Granted in the year

$64,342

Valuation of options  
exercised in the year

-

Lapsed in the year

-

The number of options that had vested as at 30 June 2020 is nil. 7,000,0000 options were granted as remuneration 
during the year (2019: nil).

Options and rights over equity instruments - Audited

The movement during the reporting period in the number of options over ordinary shares in the Company held 
directly, indirectly or beneficially, by each key management person, including their personally related entities, is as 
follows:

Option holdings 2020 - Audited

Held at  
1 July 2019

Granted/ 
Purchased

Exercised/Sold

Expired

Held at  
30 June 2020

Vested and 
exercisable at  
30 June 2020

Directors

Michael J. Hoy

Michelle Miller

Susan M. Pond

Robert B. Thomas

Stephen Locarnini

Executives

Peter J. Nightingale

1,557,965

-

1,557,965

190,625

7,000,000

109,049

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

190,625

109,049

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,000,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Loans to key management personal and their related parties - Audited

There were no loans made to key management personnel or their related parties during the 2020 and 2019 financial 
years and no amounts were outstanding at 30 June 2020 (2019 - $nil).

14

Biotron Limited

Directors’ Report

Remuneration Report - Audited (Cont.)

Other transactions with key management personnel - Audited

The following key management person holds a position in another entity that results in them having control or joint 
control over the financial or operating policies of that entity, and this entity transacted with the Company during the 
year as follows:

During the year ended 30 June 2020, Peter J. Nightingale had a controlling interest in an entity, MIS Corporate Pty 
Limited, which provided full administrative services, including rental accommodation, administrative staff, services 
and supplies, to the Company. Fees paid to MIS Corporate Pty Limited during the year amounted to $144,000 (2019 
- $144,000). There were no outstanding amounts at 30 June 2020 (2019 - $nil).

Movements in shares - Audited

The movement during the reporting period in the number of ordinary shares in the Company held directly, indirectly 
or beneficially, by each key management person, including their personally-related entities, is as follows:

Fully paid ordinary shareholdings and transactions 2020 - Audited

Directors
Michael J. Hoy

Michelle Miller

Susan M. Pond

Held at  
1 July 2019

Purchased

7,789,828

2,965,625

545,246

-

-

-

Robert B. Thomas

2,663,195

1,000,000

Stephen Locarnini

-

800,000

Executives

Peter J. Nightingale

3,594,903

3,000,000

Service contracts - Audited

Received on  
exercise of  
options

1,557,965

190,625

109,049

-

-

-

Sales

Held at  
30 June 2020

-

-

-

-

-

-

9,347,793

3,156,250

654,295

3,663,195

800,000

6,594,903

In accordance with best practice corporate governance, the Company provided each key management personnel 
with a letter detailing the terms of appointment, including their remuneration.

Michelle Miller’s is employed by the Company as Managing Director and is required to provide the Company 
with three months’ notice in order to terminate employment. The contractual salary is $360,000 (including 
superannuation). 

Non-executive directors - Audited

Total compensation for all non-executive directors is determined by the Board based on market conditions.

Non-audit Services

During the year KPMG, the Company’s auditor, performed no other services in addition to their statutory duties.

A copy of the auditors’ independence declaration as required under Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 is 
included in the Directors’ Report.

Details of the amounts paid and accrued to the auditor of the Company, KPMG, and its related practices for audit and 
non-audit services provided during the year are set out below.

Statutory audit

Audit and review of financial reports - KPMG

59,270

52,500

2020  
$

2019  
$

Annual Report 2020

15

Directors’ Report

Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration
The Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration is set out on page 17 and forms part of the Directors’ Report for the 
year ended 30 June 2020.

This report has been signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors and is dated 27 August 2020:

Michael J. Hoy 
Chairman 

Michelle Miller
Managing Director

16

Biotron Limited

 
Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration

Annual Report 2020

17

Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

Continuing operations

Other income

Administration and consultants’ expenses

Depreciation

Employee and director expenses

Direct research and development expenses

Rent and outgoings expenses

Travel expenses

Other expenses from ordinary activities

Operating loss before financing income

Interest income

Interest expense

Net financing income

Loss before tax

Income tax expense 

Loss for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive loss for the year

Basic and diluted loss per share (cents)

Notes

2020  
$

2019  
$

5

11

6

9

7

803,026

1,072,832

(237,223)

(50,119)

(875,774)

(299,580)

(12,467)

(806,272)

(2,857,383)

(1,115,879)

(11,099)

(16,931)

(394,670)

(3,640,173)

69,332

(5,118)

64,214

(61,236)

(73,849)

(404,488)

(1,700,939)

89,140

-

89,140

(3,575,959)

(1,611,799)

-

-

(3,575,959)

(1,611,799)

-

-

(3,575,959)

(1,611,799)

(0.55) cents

(0.29) cents

The above Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income should be read in conjunction with the 
accompanying notes.

18

Biotron Limited

Statement of Financial Position
As at 30 June 2020

Notes

2020  
$

2019  
$

8

10

11

12

13

14

13

14

15

15

7,660,903

58,240

7,719,143

5,739,788

37,004

5,776,792

73,203

33,855

107,058

46,321

33,855

80,176

7,826,201

5,856,968

556,406

243,640

40,709

840,755

9,126

3,312

12,438

853,193

6,973,008

202,466

209,623

-

412,089

5,909

-

5,909

417,998

5,438,970

52,843,994

74,081

47,523,320

284,758

(45,945,067)

(42,369,108)

6,973,008

5,438,970

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Other assets

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Plant and equipment

Other financial assets – bond deposit

Total non-current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Employee entitlements

Lease liability

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Employee entitlements

Lease liability

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Issued capital

Reserves

Accumulated losses

Total equity

The above Statement of Financial Position should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Annual Report 2020

19

Statement of Changes in Equity
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

Attributable to equity holders of the Company

Notes

Issued  
Capital  
$

Option  
Reserves  
$

Accumulated  
Losses  
$

Total  
$

Balance at 1 July 2018

41,439,162

599,655

(40,757,309)

1,281,508

Total comprehensive income for the year

Loss for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive loss for the year

Transactions with owners, recorded directly 
in equity

Contribution by and distribution to owners

Ordinary shares/options issued

Cost of shares issued

Exercise of options

Balance at 30 June 2019

-

-

-

6,038,728

(269,467)

-

-

-

-

-

314,897

(314,897)

(1,611,799)

(1,611,799)

-

-

(1,611,799)

(1,611,799)

-

-

-

6,038,728

(269,467)

-

15

47,523,320

284,758

(42,369,108)

5,438,970

Balance at 1 July 2019

47,523,320

284,758

(42,369,108)

5,438,970

Total comprehensive income for the year

Loss for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive loss for the year

Transactions with owners, recorded directly 
in equity

Contribution by and distribution to owners

Ordinary shares/options issued

Cost of shares issued

Exercise of options

Share based payment

-

-

-

5,311,343

(275,427)

-

-

-

-

-

284,758

(284,758)

-

74,081

(3,575,959)

(3,575,959)

-

-

(3,575,959)

(3,575,959)

-

-

-

-

5,311,343

(275,427)

-

74,081

Balance at 30 June 2020

15

52,843,994

74,081

(45,945,067)

6,973,008

The above Statement of Changes in Equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

20

Biotron Limited

Statement of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

Notes

2020  
$

2019  
$

786,906

(1,421,280)

(2,510,694)

68,364

(5,118)

1,073,232

(1,580,305)

(1,079,958)

89,140

-

Cash flows from operating activities

Cash receipts in the course of operations

Cash payments in the course of operations

Payments for research and development

Interest received

Finance costs

Net cash used in operating activities

16

(3,081,822)

(1,497,891)

Cash flows from investing activities

Rental bond

Payments for plant and equipment

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from issue of shares and options

Cost of issue of shares and options

Lease Payments

Consideration received – option exercise, share not yet 
granted

-

-

-

5,311,343

(275,427)

(32,979)

-

(11,949)

(40,933)

(52,882)

6,038,728

(291,678)

-

500

Net cash from financing activities

5,002,937

5,747,550

Net increase/(decrease) in cash held

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 July

Effect of exchange rate adjustments on cash held

1,921,115

5,739,788

-

4,196,777

1,543,002

9

Cash and cash equivalents at 30 June

8

7,660,903

5,739,788

The above Statement of Cash Flows should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Annual Report 2020

21

 
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

1. REPORTING ENTITY
Biotron Limited (the ‘Company’) is a company domiciled in Australia. The address of the Company’s registered office 
is at Level 2, 66 Hunter Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. The Company is a for-profit entity and is primarily engaged in the 
funding and management of intermediate and applied biotechnology research and development projects.

2. BASIS OF PREPARATION

(a) Statement of compliance

These financial statements are general purpose financial statements which have been prepared in accordance with 
Australian Accounting Standards (‘AASBs’) adopted by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (‘AASB’) and the 
Corporations Act 2001. The financial statements of the Company also comply with International Financial Reporting 
Standards (‘IFRSs’) adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board (‘IASB’).

The Company adopted the newly effective accounting standard AASB 16 Leases effective from 1 July 2019. AASB 
16 removes the lease classification test for lessees and requires all the leases (including operating leases) to be 
brought onto the balance sheet. 

The financial report was authorised for issue by the directors on 27 August 2020.

(b) Basis of measurement

The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, unless otherwise stated.

(c) Functional and presentation currency

These financial statements are presented in Australian dollars, which is the Company’s functional currency.

(d) Use of estimates and judgements

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions 
that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and 
expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are 
recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised and in any future periods affected.

In particular, information about significant areas of estimation uncertainty and critical judgements in applying 
accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements are 
described in the following notes:

•  Note 9 – Unrecognised deferred tax asset

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in these financial 
statements, and have been applied consistently by the Company.

(a) Changes in accounting policies

The Company has initially applied AASB 16 from 1 July 2019. A number of other new standards are also effective 
from 1 July 2019 but they do not have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements. See Note 3(p).

Due to the transition methods chosen by the Company in applying these standards, comparative information 
throughout these financial statements has not been restated to reflect the requirements of the new standards.

22

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

(a) Changes in accounting policies (Cont.)

(i) Initial adoption of AASB 16 Leases

AASB 16 introduces a single, on-balance sheet lease accounting model for lessees. A lessee recognises a right-
of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset and a lease liability representing its obligation to 
make lease payments. There are optional exemptions for short-term leases and leases of low-value items. Lessor 
accounting remains similar to the current standard — i.e. lessors continue to classify leases as finance or operating 
leases.

The Company has applied AASB 16 using the modified retrospective approach and therefore the comparative 
information has not been restated and continues to be reported under AASB 117.

a. Right of use assets

Right of use assets for operating leases relate to the lease of an office premises with a term of 3 years and are 
presented as part of the Company’s property, plant and equipment per Note 11.

The below table outlines the movement in right of use assets during the period:

Adjustment at 1 July on adoption of AASB 16

Depreciation charge

Balance at 30 June 2020

b. Lease liabilities

Office Premises

77,001

(35,539)

41,462

Total

77,001

(35,539)

41,462

On adoption of AASB 16, the Company 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 lessee’s incremental borrowing rate as a 1 July 
2019. The incremental borrowing rate applied to the lease liabilities was 9%.

A reconciliation between operating leases disclosed as commitments to the lease liability is disclosed below:

Operating lease commitment at 30 June 2019 

Discounted using the incremental borrowing rate at 1 July 2019

Lease liability recognised at 1 July 2019

1 July 2019  
$

84,216

(7,215)

77,001

(b) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits with an original maturity of three months or 
less.

(c) Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables are stated at their amortised cost less impairment losses.

(d) Property, plant and equipment

Property plant and equipment are stated at their historical cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated 
impairment losses. Depreciation is recognised in profit or loss using the reducing balance method from the date of 
acquisition at rates between 13% and 40% per annum.

Annual Report 2020

23

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

(e) Government grants

Where a grant is received relating to research and development costs that have been expensed, the grant is 
recognised as other income when the grant becomes receivable and the Company complies with all attached 
conditions.

Research and development costs

Expenditure on research activities, undertaken with the prospect of gaining new scientific or technical knowledge 
and understanding, is recognised in profit and loss when incurred.

Development activities involve a plan or design for the production of new or substantially improved products and 
processes. Development expenditure is capitalised only if development costs can be measured reliably, the product 
or process is technically and commercially feasible, future economic benefits are probable, and the Company 
intends to and has sufficient resources to complete development and to use or sell the asset. The expenditure 
capitalised includes the cost of materials, direct labour and overhead costs that are directly attributable to preparing 
the asset for its intended use. Otherwise, development expenditure is recognised in profit or loss when incurred.

Capitalised development expenditure is measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated 
impairment losses.

(f) Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables are stated at their amortised cost, are non-interest bearing and are normally settled within 
60 days.

(g) Employee entitlements

Short-term employee benefits 

Short-term employee benefits are expensed as the related service is provided. A liability is recognised for the 
amount expected to be paid under short term cash bonus or profit sharing plans if the Company has a present legal 
or constructive obligation to pay this amount as a result of past service provided by the employee, and the obligation 
can be estimated reliably.

Long term employee benefits

The Company’s net obligation in respect of long term employee benefits is the amount of future benefit that 
employees have earned in return for their service in the current and prior periods. That benefit is discounted to 
determine its present value. Re-measurements are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they arise.

Share-based payment transactions

The grant-date fair value of share-based payment awards granted to employees is recognised as an employee 
expense, with a corresponding increase in equity, over the period that the employees become unconditionally 
entitled to the awards. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which 
the related service and non-market vesting conditions are expected to be met, such that the amount ultimately 
recognised as an expense is based on the number of awards that meet the related service and non-market 
performance conditions at the vesting date. For share-based payment awards with non-vesting conditions, the 
grant date fair value of the share-based payment is measured to reflect such conditions and there is no true-up for 
differences between expected and actual outcomes.

24

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

(h) Financial instruments

Non-derivative financial assets
Recognition and initial measurement

The Company initially recognises trade receivables on the date that they are originated. All other financial assets are 
recognised initially on the trade date at which the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the 
instrument.

The Company derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, 
or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows on the financial asset in a transaction in which 
substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred. Any interest in such 
transferred financial assets that is created or retained by the Company is recognised as a separate asset or liability.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the statement of financial position when, 
and only when, the Company has a legal right to offset the amounts and intends either to settle them on a net basis 
or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Classification and subsequent measurement

On initial recognition, a financial asset is classified as measured at:

•  Amortised cost;
•  Fair value through other comprehensive income – equity investment; or 
•  Fair value through profit or loss. 

Financial assets are not reclassified subsequent to their initial recognition unless the Company changes its business 
model for managing financial assets, in which case all affected financial assets are reclassified on the first day of 
the first reporting period following the change in the business model.

A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both the following conditions and is not designated as fair 
value through profit or loss:

• 
• 

It is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and
Its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest 
on the principal amount outstanding.

All financial assets not classified as measured at amortised cost or fair value through other comprehensive income 
as described above are measured at fair value through profit or loss. This includes all derivative financial assets. On 
initial recognition, the Company may irrevocably designate a financial asset that otherwise meets the requirements 
to be measured at amortised cost or at fair value through other comprehensive income as at fair value through 
profit or loss if doing so eliminates or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch that would otherwise arise. 

The Company classified its financial assets into one of the following.

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are financial assets held for trading. A financial asset is classified 
in this category if acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the short term. Derivatives are classified as held 
for trading unless they are designated as hedges. Assets in this category are classified as current assets if they are 
expected to be settled within 12 months; otherwise, they are classified as non-current. Financial assets at fair value 
through profit or loss are measured at fair value and changes therein, which take into account any dividend income, 
are recognised in profit or loss.

Annual Report 2020

25

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

(h) Financial instruments (Cont.)

Non-derivative financial assets (Cont.)

Amortised cost

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted 
in an active market. Such assets are recognised at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. 
Subsequent to initial recognition, loans and receivables are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest 
method, less any impairment losses. They are included in current assets, except for those with maturities greater 
than 12 months after the reporting period, which are classified as non-current assets. Loans and receivables 
comprise cash and cash equivalents and trade and other receivables.

Non-derivative financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are measured at amortised cost.

The Company initially recognises debt securities issued and subordinated liabilities on the date that they are 
originated. All other financial liabilities are recognised initially on the trade date, which is the date that the Company 
becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

The Company derecognises a financial liability when its contractual obligations are discharged, cancelled or expire.

Other financial liabilities comprise loans and borrowings and trade and other payables.

(i) Share Capital

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of ordinary shares are 
recognised as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects.

(j) Tax

Income tax comprises of current tax and deferred tax and is recognised in profit or loss except to the extent that it 
relates to a business combination, or items recognised directly in equity or in other comprehensive income.

Current tax

Current tax is the expected tax payable or receivable on the taxable income or loss for the year, using tax rates 
enacted or substantially enacted at the reporting date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous 
years.

Current tax assets and liabilities are offset only if certain criteria are met.

Deferred tax

Deferred tax is recognised in respect of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities 
for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is not recognised 
for temporary differences on the initial recognition of assets or liabilities in a transaction that is not a business 
combination and that affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss.

The measurement of deferred tax reflects the tax consequences that would follow the manner in which the Company 
expects, at the end of the reporting period, to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.

Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to temporary differences when they 
reverse, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are 
offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets, and they relate to taxes levied 
by the same tax authority on the same taxable entity, or on different tax entities, but they intend to settle current tax 
liabilities and assets on a net basis or their tax assets and liabilities will be realised simultaneously.

A deferred tax asset is recognised for unused tax losses, tax credits and deductible temporary differences, to the 
extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which they can be utilised. Deferred 
tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the 
related tax benefit will be realised.

26

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

(j) Tax (Cont.)

Goods and services tax

Revenue, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of goods and services tax (‘GST’), except where 
the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the taxation authority. In these circumstances, 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 with the amount of GST included. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or 
payable to, the ATO is included as a current asset or liability in the balance sheet.

Cash flows are included in the statement of cash flows on a gross basis. The GST components of cash flows arising 
from investing and financing activities which are recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO are classified as operating 
cash flows.

(k) Finance income

Finance income comprises interest income on funds invested. Interest income is recognised as it accrues in profit or 
loss, using the effective interest method.

(l) Earnings per share

The Company presents basic and diluted earnings per share (‘EPS’) data for its ordinary shares. Basic EPS is 
calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Company by the weighted 
average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is determined by adjusting the profit 
or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders and the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for 
the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares, which comprise share options.

(m) Impairment

Financial instruments

The Company recognises expected credit losses (‘ECLs’), where material, on:

•  Financial assets measured at amortised cost;

The Group measures loss allowances at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs, except for the following, which are 
measured at 12-month ECLs:

•  Other debt securities and bank balances for which credit risk (i.e the risk of default occurring over the expected 

life of the financial instrument) has not increased significantly since initial recognition. 

Loss allowances for trade receivables and contract assets are always measured at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs. 
At each reporting date, the Group assesses whether financial assets carried at amortised cost and debt securities at 
fair value through other comprehensive income are credit-impaired. 

The gross carrying amount of a financial asset is written off when the Group has no reasonable expectations of 
recovering a financial asset in its entirety or a portion thereof.

(n) Provisions

A provision is recognised if, as a result of a past event, the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation 
that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the 
obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects 
the current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of 
the discount is recognised as a finance cost.

Annual Report 2020

27

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Cont.)

(o) Segment reporting

Determination and presentation of operating segments

The Company determines and presents operating segments based on the information that is provided internally to 
the Managing Director, who is the Company’s chief operating decision maker.

An operating segment is a component of the Company that engages in business activities from which it may earn 
revenues and incur expenses, including revenues and expenses that relate to transactions with any of the Company’s 
other components. All operating segments’ operating results are regularly reviewed by the Company’s Managing 
Director to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance.

Segment results that are reported to the Managing Director include items directly attributable to a segment as well 
as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis. Unallocated items comprise mainly corporate assets (primarily 
the Company’s headquarters), head office expenses, and income tax assets and liabilities.

(p) Standards issued but not yet effective

A number of new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations are effective for annual periods 
beginning after 1 January 2020, and have not been applied in preparing these financial statements. The following 
amended standards and interpretations are not expected to have a significant impact on the financial statements. 

•  Amendments to References to Conceptual Frameworks in IFRS standards;
•  Definition of a Business (Amendments to AASB 3);
•  Definition of Material (Amendments to AASB 101 and AASB 108);
•  AASB 17 Insurance Contracts

4. DETERMINATION OF FAIR VALUES
A number of the Company’s accounting policies and disclosures require the determination of fair value, for both 
financial and non-financial assets and liabilities. Fair values have been determined for measurement and/or 
disclosure purposes based on the following methods. Where applicable, further information about the assumptions 
made in determining fair values is disclosed in the notes specific to that asset or liability.

Trade and other receivables

The fair value of trade and other receivables is estimated as the present value of future cash flows, discounted at the 
market rate of interest at the measurement date. Fair value is determined at initial recognition and, for disclosure 
purposes, at each annual reporting date.

Share-based payment transactions

The fair value of employee share options is measured using the Black-Scholes formula. Measurement inputs include 
share price on measurement date, exercise price of the instrument, expected volatility (based on weighted average 
historic volatility adjusted for changes expected due to publicly available information), weighted average expected 
life of the instruments (based on historical experience and general option holder behaviour), expected dividends, and 
the risk-free interest rate (based on government bonds). Service and non-market performance conditions attached 
to the transactions are not taken into account in determining fair value. Share-based payment arrangements in 
which the Company receives goods or services as consideration for its own equity instruments are accounted for as 
equity-settled share-based payment transactions. 

Non-derivative financial liabilities

Non-derivative financial liabilities are measured at fair value, at initial recognition, and for disclosure purposes, at 
each annual reporting date. Fair value is calculated based on the present value of future principal and interest cash 
flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the measurement date.

28

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

5. OTHER INCOME
Research and development rebate

Other 

6. LOSS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Loss from ordinary activities has been arrived at after 
charging the following items:

Auditors’ remuneration paid to KPMG

 - Auditor’s and review of financial reports

Depreciation

 - Office equipment

 - Plant and equipment

 - Right of use asset

Direct research and development expenditure expensed 
as incurred

Provision for employee entitlements

Superannuation expense

Note

11

11

11

2020  
$

2019  
$

753,026

50,000

803,026

1,072,832

-

1,072,832

59,270

52,500

10,719

3,861

35,539

11,505

962

-

2,857,383

1,115,879

53,842

66,765

38,608

63,313

7. LOSS PER SHARE
The calculation of basic and diluted loss per share at 30 June 2020 was based on the loss attributable to ordinary 
shareholders of $3,575,959 (2019 - $1,611,799 loss) and a weighted average number of ordinary shares 
outstanding during the financial year ended 30 June 2020 of 654,163,613 (2019 – 559,287,341), calculated as 
follows:

Net loss for the year

3,575,959

1,611,799

Weighted average number of ordinary shares (basic and diluted)

Issued ordinary shares at 1 July

Weighted average number of ordinary shares at 30 June

595,705,860

502,417,116

654,163,613

559,287,341

As the Company is loss making, none of the potentially dilutive securities are currently dilutive.

2020  
Number

2019  
Number

Annual Report 2020

29

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

8. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash at bank

Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows

9. INCOME TAX EXPENSE
Current tax expense

Current year

Tax losses not recognised

Deferred tax expense

Current year

De-recognition of temporary differences

2020  
$

2019  
$

7,660,903

7,660,903

5,739,788

5,739,788

(1,176,698)

(802,107)

1,176,698

802,107

-

-

(6,093)

6,093

-

65,030

(65,030)

-

Numerical reconciliation between tax expense and pre-tax net profit

Loss before tax - continuing operations

(3,575,959)

(1,611,799)

Prima facie income tax benefit at the Australian tax rate of 27.5% 

(983,388)

(443,245)

Increase in income tax expense due to:

- Adjustments not resulting in temporary differences

- Effect of tax losses not recognised

- Unrecognised temporary differences

Income tax expense current and deferred

Deferred tax assets have not been recognised in respect of the following 
items

Deductible temporary differences (net)

Tax losses

Net

276,537

700,759

6,092

-

385,425

122,850

(65,030)

-

294,609

10,170,409

10,465,018

214,244

9,469,650

9,683,894

The deductible temporary differences and tax losses do not expire under the current tax legislation. Deferred tax 
assets have not been recognised in respect of these items because it is not probable that future taxable profit will 
be available against which the Company can utilise the benefits of the deferred tax asset.

30

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

2020  
$

2019  
$

58,240

58,240

37,004

37,004

239,116

239,116

(213,437)

(202,718)

25,679

36,398

514,442

514,442

(508,380)

(504,519)

6,062

9,923

77,001

(35,539)

41,462

73,203

-

-

-

46,321

10. OTHER ASSETS
Current prepayments

11. PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Office equipment - at cost 

Accumulated depreciation

Plant and equipment - at cost

Accumulated depreciation

Rights of use assets

Accumulated depreciation

Total plant and equipment - net book value

Reconciliations

Reconciliations of the carrying amounts for each class of plant and equipment are set out below:

Office equipment

Balance at 1 July

Additions

Depreciation

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

Plant and equipment

Balance at 1 July

Additions

Depreciation

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

Right of use asset

Balance at 1 July

Adoption of AASB16 (Note3(a))

Depreciation

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

Total carrying amount at the end of the financial year

36,398

-

(10,719)

25,679

9,923

-

(3,861)

6,062

-

77,001

(35,539)

41,462

73,203

9,453

38,450

(11,505)

36,398

8,401

2,484

(962)

9,923

-

-

-

-

46,321

Annual Report 2020

31

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

12. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES
Current

Creditors

Accruals

13. EMPLOYEE ENTITLEMENTS
Current

Employee annual leave provision

Long service leave provision

Non-current

Long service leave provision

14. LEASE LIABILITY
Current

Lease liability

Non-current

Lease liability

2020  
$

2019  
$

309,994

246,412

556,406

158,270

44,196

202,466

96,176

147,464

243,640

69,024

140,599

209,623

9,126

5,909

40,709

3,312

-

-

Set out below are the carrying amounts of the lease liabilities recognised and the movements during the year:

Adjustment at 1 July on adoption of AASB 16

Additions 

Interest expense

Payments 

Balance at 30 June 2020

Office Premises  
$

77,001

-

5,118

(38,098)

44,021

Total  
$

77,001

-

5,118

(38,098)

44,021

32

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

15. CAPITAL AND RESERVES
Issued and paid up capital

701,932,713 (2019 – 595,705,860) fully paid ordinary shares

52,843,994

47,523,320

2020  
$

2019  
$

Fully paid ordinary shares

Balance at the beginning of the financial year

Issue of shares

Exercise of options

Costs of issue

Balance at the end of financial year

47,523,320

41,439,162

5,311,343

6,038,728

284,758

314,897

(275,427)

(269,467)

52,843,994

47,523,320

The Company does not have authorised capital or par value in respect of its issued shares. All issued shares are fully 
paid.

•  During the year ended 30 June 2020,106,226,853 fully paid ordinary shares (30 June 2019 – 9,859,614) 

were issued through the exercise of 12 December 2019 $0.05 listed options for cash totalling $5,311,343 (30 
June 2019 - $492,981).  The fair value of the options issued at the grant date was $284,758 (30 June 2019 - 
$26,424).

•  During the year, the Company entered into an agreement with Gleneagle Securities (Aust) Pty Ltd to underwrite 
any shortfall arising from the exercise of 12 December 2019 $0.05 options with 22,451,353 options being 
underwritten by Gleneagle Securities (Aust) Pty Ltd. Total issue cost of $275,427 was recognised as a reduction 
in proceeds of issue of these shares.

•  During the year ended 30 June 2019, 2,000,000 fully paid ordinary shares were issued to Michelle Miller through 
the exercise of 30 November 2018 $0.15 unlisted options for cash totalling $300,000. The fair value of the 
options when granted was $35,806. Total issue cost of $2,654 was recognised as a reduction in proceeds of 
issue of these shares.

•  During the year ended 30 June 2019, 3,000,000 fully paid ordinary shares were issued to Michelle Miller through 
the exercise of 30 November 2018 $0.18 unlisted options for cash totalling $540,000. The fair value of the 
options issued when granted was $48,751. Total issue cost of $5,904 was recognised as a reduction in proceeds 
of issue of these shares.

•  During the year ended 30 June 2019, 78,429,130 fully paid ordinary shares were issued through the exercise of 
30 November 2018 $0.06 listed options for cash totalling $4,705,747. The fair value of the options when grated 
was $203,916.  During the year ended 30 June 2019, the Company entered into an agreement with CPS Capital 
Group Pty Ltd to underwrite any shortfall arising from the exercise of 30 November 2018 $0.06 options with 
1,336,137 options being underwritten by CPS Capital Pty Ltd. Total issue cost of $260,909 was recognised as a 
reduction in proceeds of issue of these shares.

No dividends were declared or paid by the Company during the current or prior period.

Annual Report 2020

33

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

15. CAPITAL AND RESERVES (Cont.)
The following unlisted options were on issue at 30 June 2020:

•  5,000,000 options with a fair value at grant date of $0.006 cents, each exercisable at 25 cents to acquire 
one fully paid ordinary share at any time after the 26 November 2019 (subject to the completion of a 
commercialisation transaction) up to 29 November 2021. The fair value of the options at grant date was 
determined based on Black- Scholes formula. The model inputs of the options issued, were the Company’s share 
price of $0.064 at the grant date, a volatility factor of 77% based on historic share price performance, a risk free 
rate of 0.75.77% based on the 2-year government bond rate and no dividends paid.

•  1,000,000 options with a fair value at grant date of $0.014 cents, each exercisable at 20 cents to acquire one 

fully paid ordinary share at any time after the 26 November 2020 up to 29 November 2022. The fair value of the 
options at grant date was determined based on Black- Scholes formula. The model inputs of the options issued, 
were the Company’s share price of $0.064 at the grant date, a volatility factor of 75.77% based on historic share 
price performance, a risk free rate of 0.73% based on the 3-year government bond rate and no dividends paid.

•  1,000,000 options with a fair value at grant date of $0.02 cents, each exercisable at 20 cents to acquire one 

fully paid ordinary share at any time after the 26 November 2021 up to 29 November 2023. The fair value of the 
options at grant date was determined based on Black- Scholes formula. The model inputs of the options issued, 
were the Company’s share price of $0.064 at the grant date, a volatility factor of 75.77% based on historic share 
price performance, a risk free rate of 0.81% based on the 5-year government bond rate and no dividends paid.

•  5,000,000 options with a fair value at grant date of $0.021 cents, each exercisable at 20 cents to acquire one 
fully paid ordinary share at any time after the 31 January 2021 up to 31 January 2023. The fair value of the 
options at grant date was determined based on Black- Scholes formula. The model inputs of the options issued, 
were the Company’s share price of $0.064 at the grant date, a volatility factor of 87.62% based on historic share 
price performance, a risk free rate of 0.73% based on the 5-year government bond rate and no dividends paid.

The following unlisted options were on issue as at 30 June 2020.

Opening Balance  
1 July 2019  
Number

-

-

Exercise  
Price  
$

0.25

0.20

Granted  
during the year 
 Number

5,000,000

7,000,000

Exercised/Expired  
during the year  
Number

-

-

Closing Balance  
30 June 2020  
Number

5,000,000

7,000,000

There were no unlisted options on issue as at 30 June 2019.

The following listed options were on issue at 30 June 2020:

Opening Balance  
1 July 2019  
Number

106,226,853

Exercise  
Price  
$

0.05

Granted  
during the year  
Number

Exercised/Expired  
during the year  
Number

Closing Balance  
30 June 2020  
Number

-

106,226,853

-

Terms and conditions - Shares

Holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared and, are entitled to one vote per share at 
shareholders’ meetings. In the event of winding up of the Company, ordinary shareholders rank after creditors and 
are fully entitled to any proceeds of liquidation.

34

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

2020  
$

2019  
$

74,081

-

74,081

-

284,758

284,758

-

74,081

84,557

-

-

(84,557)

74,081

-

284,758

515,098

-

-

(284,758)

(230,340)

-

284,758

15. CAPITAL AND RESERVES (Cont.)
Option Reserves

Equity based compensation reserve

Option premium reserve

Movements during the period

Equity based compensation reserve

Balance at the beginning of period

Share based payment expense

Options exercised during the period

Balance at end of period

Option premium reserve

Balance at the beginning of period

Issue of options

Exercise of options

Balance at end of period

Nature and purpose of reserves

Equity based compensation reserve:

The equity based compensation reserve is used to recognise the grant date fair value of options issued but not 
exercised 

Option premium reserve:

The option premium reserve is used to accumulate proceeds received from the issuing of options.

Annual Report 2020

35

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

16. STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
Reconciliation of cash flows from operating activities

Loss for the period

Adjustments for:

Other income

Depreciation of plant and equipment

Provisions for employee entitlements

Share based payments

Effect of exchange rate adjustments

Changes in assets and liabilities

Decrease / (Increase) in prepayments

(Decrease) / Increase in accruals

(Decrease) / Increase in payables

Net cash used in operating activities

2020  
$

2019  
$

(3,575,959)

(1,611,799)

(17,088)

50,119

37,234

74,081

-

(20,270)

246,412

123,649

-

12,467

38,608

-

(9)

(556)

-

63,398

(3,081,822)

(1,497,891)

17. RELATED PARTIES

Key management personnel and director transactions

The following key management person holds a position in another entity that results in them having control or joint 
control over the financial or operating policies of that entity, and this entity transacted with the Company during the 
year as follows:

During the year ended 30 June 2020, Peter J. Nightingale had a controlling interest in an entity, MIS Corporate Pty 
Limited, which provided full administrative services, including rental accommodation, administrative staff, services 
and supplies, to the entity. Fees paid to MIS Corporate Pty Limited during the year, amounted to $144,000 (2019 - 
$144,000). There were no outstanding amounts at 30 June 2020 (2019 - $nil).

Key management personnel compensation

During the year ended 30 June 2020, compensation of key management personnel totalled $678,862 (2019 - 
$617,188), which comprised primary salary and fees of $601,904 (2019 - $556,814), superannuation of $50,139 
(2019 - $45,488), share based payments of $21,338 (2019 - nil) and long service leave of $5,481 (2019 - $14,886). 
During the 2020 and 2019 financial years, no long term benefits or termination payments were paid.

36

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

18. SHARE BASED PAYMENTS 
The Company has an Incentive Option Plan to provide eligible persons, being employees or directors, or individuals 
whom the Plan Committee determine to be employees for the purposes of the Plan, with the opportunity to acquire 
options over unissued ordinary shares in the Company. The number of options granted or offered under the Plan will 
not exceed 10% of the Company’s issued share capital and the exercise price of options will be the greater of the 
market value of the Company’s shares as at the date of grant of the option or such amount as the Plan Committee 
determines. Options have no voting or dividend rights. The vesting conditions of options issued under the plan are 
based on a minimum service periods being achieved. There are no other vesting conditions attached to options 
issued under the plan.

In the event that the employment or office of the option holder is terminated, any options which have not reached 
their exercise period will lapse and any options which have reached their exercise period may be exercised within two 
months of the date of termination of employment. Any options not exercised within this two month period will lapse.

During the year ended 30 June 2020, the Company 12,000,000 unlisted options 7,000,000 to key management 
personnel and 5,000,000 to employees of the Company and no options were issued during the year ended 30 June 
2019. At 30 June 2020, 12,000,000 options were on issue (2019 - nil) as detailed in note 15.

The terms and conditions of the options held by key management personnel during the year ended 30 June 2020 are 
as follows:

Grant date

Expiry date

Vesting date

26 November 
2019

29 November  
2021

1 26 November  
2019

26 November 
2019

29 November  
2022

2 26 November  
2020

26 November 
2019

29 November  
2023

2 26 November  
2021

Fair value  
of options  
granted  
$

Exercise  
price

Total   
granted  
Number

Total  
Exercised  
Number

$0.25

30,625

5,000,000

$0.20

14,215

1,000,000

$0.20

19,502

1,000,000

64,342

7,000,000

-

-

-

-

Balance  
at end of  
the period  
Number

5,000,000

1,000,000

1,000,000

7,000,000

1 Vesting date is subject to the completion of a commercialisation transaction.
2 Vesting conditions are based on minimum service periods being achieved.

The terms and conditions of the 5,000,000 employee options granted during the year ended 30 June 2020 are as 
follows:

Grant date

Expiry date

Vesting date

26 November 
2019

31 January  
2023

1 31 January  
2021

Fair value  
of options 
granted  
$

Exercise  
price

Total   
granted  
Number

Total   
Exercised  
Number

Balance  
at end of  
the period  
Number

$0.20

102,756

5,000,000

-

5,000,000

1 Vesting conditions are based on minimum service periods being achieved

No options issued as share based payment were outstanding at 30 June 2019.

Annual Report 2020

37

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

18. SHARE BASED PAYMENTS  (Cont.)
Movement of options in the equity based compensation reserve during the year

Number of  
options  
2020

7,000,000

Weighted average  
exercise price  
2020

$0.236

Number of  
options  
2019

-

Weighted average  
exercise price  
2019

-

Outstanding 

The equity based compensation reserve is used to record the options issued to directors and executives of the 
Company as compensation. Options are valued using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

The weighted average remaining contractual life of share options outstanding at the end of the year in the equity 
based compensation reserve was 2.16 years (2019 – nil).

During the year, no ordinary shares were issued as a result of the exercise of options granted pursuant to the 
Incentive Option Plan (2019 – 5 million).

Fair value of options

The fair value of options granted is measured at grant date and recognised as an expense over the period during 
which the employee becomes unconditionally entitled to the options. The fair value of the options granted is 
measured using an option valuation methodology, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the 
options were granted. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect the actual number of options that 
vest.

When options on issue are modified and the modification is beneficial to the other party the incremental fair value 
at the date of the modification is recognised over the remaining modified vesting period and the original grant-
date fair value is recognised over the remaining original vesting period. When the modification is to options on 
issue that have fully vested the incremental fair value is recognised as an expense in the period the modification 
occurs. The incremental fair value is the difference between the fair value of the share based payment at the date of 
modification between the old and new terms.

Expenses arising from share-based payment transactions

Total expenses arising from share based payment transactions recognised during the year ended 30 June 2020 was 
$74,081 (2019 - $nil).

19. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Financial risk management objectives and policies

The Company’s financial instruments comprise deposits with banks, receivables, trade and other payables and from 
time to time short term loans from related parties. The Company does not trade in derivatives or in foreign currency.

The Company manages its risk exposure of its financial instruments in accordance with the guidance of the Board of 
Directors. The main risks arising from the Company’s financial instruments are market risk, credit risk and liquidity 
risks. This note presents information about the Company’s exposure to each of these risks, its objectives, policies 
and processes for measuring and managing risk, and the Company’s management of capital.

Risk management framework

The Board has overall responsibility for the establishment and oversight of the risk management framework. 
Informal risk management policies are established to identify and analyse the risks faced by the Company. 

The primary responsibility to monitor the financial risks lies with the Managing Director and the Company Secretary 
under the authority of the Board.

38

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

19. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS  (Cont.)

Credit risk

Credit risk arises mainly from the risk of counterparties defaulting on the terms of their agreements.

The carrying amounts of the following assets represent the Company’s maximum exposure to credit risk in relation 
to financial assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

Security deposits

Cash and cash equivalents

Note

8

Carrying amount

2020  
$

7,660,903

33,855

7,694,758

2019  
$

5,739,788

33,855

5,773,643

The Company mitigates credit risk on cash and cash equivalents by dealing with regulated banks in Australia.

Trade and other receivables

Credit risk of trade and other receivables is very low as it usually consists predominantly of amounts recoverable 
from a regulated bank in Australia.

All financial assets are current and are not past due or impaired and the Company does not have any material credit 
risk exposure to any single debtor or group of debtors under financial instruments entered into by the Company.

Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The 
Company’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far as possible, that it will always have sufficient liquidity 
to meet its liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring unacceptable losses or 
risking damage to the Company’s reputation.

The ultimate responsibility for liquidity management rests with the Board. The Company monitors rolling forecasts of 
liquidity on the basis of expected fund raisings, trade payables and other obligations for the ongoing operation of the 
Company. At balance date, the Company has available funds of $7,660,903 for its immediate use.

The following are the contractual maturities of financial liabilities, including estimated interest payments:

Carrying  
amount  
$

556,406

44,021

Contractual  
cash flows  
$

Less than  
one year  
$

Between one  
and five years  
$

(556,406)

(46,118)

(556,406)

(42,806)

-

(3,312)

30 June 2020

Trade and other payables

Lease Liability

30 June 2019

Trade and other payables

202,466

(202,466)

(202,466)

-

It is not expected that the cash flows included in the maturity analysis could occur significantly earlier, or at 
significantly different amounts.

Annual Report 2020

39

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

19. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS  (Cont.)

Market risk

Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices, such as foreign exchange rates, interest rates and equity prices 
will affect the Company’s income or the value of its holdings of financial instruments. The objective of market risk 
management is to manage and control market risk exposures within acceptable parameters, while optimising the 
return.

Interest rate risk

The Company’s income statement is affected by changes in interest rates due to the impact of such changes on 
interest income from cash and cash equivalents and interest bearing security deposits. The average interest rate on 
funds held during the year was 0.94% (2019 – 2%).

At balance date, the Company had the following mix of financial assets exposed to variable interest rate risk that are 
not designated as cash flow hedges.

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Security deposits

Net exposure

Note

8

2020  
$

2019  
$

7,660,903

33,855

7,694,758

5,739,788

33,855

5,773,643

The Company had the following fixed interest bearing financial liabilities in the current year.

Financial liabilities

Lease liability

Net exposure

14

44,021

44,021

-

-

The Company does not have interest rate swap contracts. The Company always analyses its interest rate exposure 
when considering renewals of existing positions including alternative financing.

Sensitivity analysis

The following sensitivity analysis is based on the interest rate risk exposures at balance date.

An increase of 100 basis points in interest rates throughout the reporting period would have decreased the loss 
for the period by the amounts shown below, whilst a decrease would have increased the loss by the same amount. 
The Company’s equity consists of fully paid ordinary shares. There is no effect on fully paid ordinary shares by an 
increase or decrease in interest rates during the period.

2020  
$

2019  
$

73,410

46,348

Currency risk

The Company is exposed to currency risk on cash and cash equivalents that are denominated in United States 
currency. The company’s gross financial exposure to foreign currency risk at balance date was US$97 (2019 - 
US$97).

The Company is not exposed to price risks.

40

Biotron Limited

Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2020

19. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS  (Cont.)

Capital management

The Board’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence 
and to sustain future development of the business.

The Board ensures costs are not incurred in excess of available funds and will seek to raise additional funding 
through issues of shares for the continuation of the Company’s operations. There were no changes in the Company’s 
approach to capital management during the year.

The Company is not subject to externally imposed capital requirements.

Estimation of fair values

The carrying amounts of financial assets and liabilities approximate their net fair values, given the short time frames 
to maturity and or variable interest rates.

20. FINANCIAL REPORTING BY SEGMENTS
The Company operates in one reportable operating and geographical segment, being the biotechnology industry in 
Australia.

21. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
The Company may be party to commercial disputes and litigation in the normal course of business. No material 
liabilities are expected to arise in respect of the commercial disputes and litigation existing at balance date.

There are no capital commitments at the date of these financial statements.

22. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
There have been no matters arise in the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report 
any item, transaction or event of a material and unusual nature likely, in the opinion of the directors of the Company, 
to affect significantly the operations of the Company, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the 
Company in future financial years.

Annual Report 2020

41

Directors’ Declaration

1.

In the opinion of the directors of Biotron Limited:

a)

the financial statements and notes set out on pages 18 to 41, and the Remuneration Report in the
Directors’ Report, set out on pages 11 to 15, are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:

(i) giving a true and fair view of the Company’s financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its

performance for the financial year ended on that date; and

(ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards (including Australian Accounting Interpretations) and

the Corporations Regulations 2001;

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.

2.

3.

The directors have been given the declarations required by Section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 from the
chief executive officer and chief financial officer for the financial year ended 30 June 2020.

The directors draw attention to note 2(a) of the financial statements, which includes a statement of compliance
with International Financial Reporting Standards.

This report has been signed in accordance with a resolution
of the directors and is dated 27 August 2020:

Michael J. Hoy 
Chairman 

Michelle Miller
Managing Director

42

Biotron Limited

Independent Auditor’s Report

Annual Report 2020

43

Independent Auditor’s Report

44

Biotron Limited

Independent Auditor’s Report

Annual Report 2020

45

Additional Stock Exchange Information

Home Exchange

The Company is listed on the ASX Limited. The home exchange is Sydney.

Use of Cash and Assets

Since the Company’s listing on the ASX, the Company has used its cash and assets in a way consistent with its 
stated business objectives.

Class of Shares and Voting Rights

There is only one class of shares in the Company, fully paid ordinary shares.

The rights attaching to shares in the Company are set out in the Company’s Constitution. The following is a summary 
of the principal rights of the holders of shares in the Company.

Every holder of shares present in person or by proxy, attorney or representative at a meeting of shareholders has 
one vote on a vote taken by a show of hands, and, on a poll every holder of shares who is present in person or by 
proxy, attorney or representative has one vote for every fully paid share registered in the shareholder’s name on the 
Company’s share register.

A poll may be demanded by the chairperson of the meeting, by at least 5 shareholders entitled to vote on the 
resolution or shareholders with at least 5% of the votes that may be cast on the resolution on a poll.

Distribution of Equity Securityholders

As at 31 July 2020, the distribution of each class of quoted equity securityholders was as follows:

Fully Paid  
Ordinary  
Share Holders

Total Number  
of Shares

29 November  
2021  
$0.25 unlisted 
Options

29 November  
2022  
$0.20 unlisted  
Options

29 November  
2023   
$0.20 unlisted  
Options

31 December  
2023  
$0.20 unlisted  
Options

180

44,495

1,328

4,863,513

1,502

12,107,915

Range

1 - 1,000

1,001 - 5,000

5,001 - 10,000

10,001 - 100,000

3,534

134,782,437

100,001 and over

1,088

550,134,353

7,632 701,932,713

1

1

1

1

1

1

3

3

At 31 July 2020, 1,540 shareholders held less than a marketable parcel of shares.

Type of securities

Ordinary shares

Unlisted options

Number of holders

Number of securities

7,632

4

701,932,713

12,000,000

46

Biotron Limited

Additional Stock Exchange Information

Twenty Largest Quoted Shareholders
At 31 July 2020 the twenty largest fully paid ordinary shareholders held 16.55% of fully paid ordinary as follows:

Name

Jey Investment Pty Ltd

Dr Angela Fay Dulhunty

Umbiram Pty Ltd 

Armco Barriers Pty Ltd

DNS Accounting and Law Consultancy Pty Ltd

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited

Fordholm Investments Pty Ltd 

Rookharp Capital Pty Limited

Pathold No 222 Pty Ltd

Scott’s A V Pty Ltd 

Edstop Pty Limited 

Road & Construction Supplies of Australia Pty Ltd 

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13 Mr Robert Thomas and Mrs Kyrenia Thomas 

14

15

Dr Sanjiv Pathak

Attollo Copia Pty Ltd 

16 Mr Peter James Nightingale

17 Mr Mark Andrew Peterson 

18 Mr John Yan

19 Mr William John Dunn

20 Mr Charles Tollios Panos

There are no current on-market buy-backs.

Fully Paid  
Ordinary Shares

14,440,945

10,000,000

9,347,793

7,800,000

7,753,488

7,495,962

7,000,000

7,000,000

5,200,000

4,918,000

4,071,588

3,800,000

3,663,195

3,632,313

3,600,565

3,594,903

3,300,000

3,266,858

3,200,000

3,099,234

%

2.06

1.42

1.33

1.11

1.10

1.07

1.00

1.00

0.74

0.70

0.58

0.54

0.52

0.52

0.51

0.51

0.47

0.47

0.46

0.44

Annual Report 2020

47

Principal Administration Office:
Suite 3.3, 56 Delhi Road
NORTH RYDE NSW 2113
Phone:  61-2 9805 0488
61-2 9805 0688
Fax: 

Corporate Directory

Directors:
Mr Michael J. Hoy (Chairman)
Dr Michelle Miller (Managing Director)
Dr Susan M. Pond
Mr Robert B. Thomas
Prof Stephen Locarnini

Company Secretary:
Mr Peter J. Nightingale

Registered Office: 
Level 2, 66 Hunter Street 
SYDNEY NSW 2000 
Phone:  61-2 9300 3344 
Fax: 
61-2 9221 6333 
E-mail: enquiries@biotron.com.au
Homepage: www.biotron.com.au

Share Registrar:
Computershare Investor Services Pty Limited
Level 4, 60 Carrington Street
SYDNEY NSW 2000
Phone: 1300 787 272 

Fax: 61-3-9473 2500

Auditors:
KPMG Level 16, Riparian Plaza
71 Eagle Street
BRISBANE QLD 4000

Home Exchange:
ASX Limited 20 Bridge Street
SYDNEY NSW 2000

Solicitors:
Minter Ellison
88 Phillip Street
SYDNEY NSW 2000

Biotron Limited, incorporated and domiciled in Australia, 
is a publicly listed company limited by shares.

48

Biotron Limited

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