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Brambles
Annual Report 2009

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FY2009 Annual Report · Brambles
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www.BramBles.com

BramBles limited
Level 40, Gateway
1 Macquarie Place 
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia 
Tel: 61 (0) 2 9256 5222
Fax: 61 (0) 2 9256 5299 

General enquiries
Email: info@brambles.com

investor and analyst enquiries
MichAEL RobERTS
Vice President investor Relations and corporate Affairs
Tel: 61 (0) 2 9256 5222
Fax: 61 (0) 2 9256 5299 
Email: michael.roberts@brambles.com

retail shareholders
For Share Registrars’ details go to page 54 of this Annual Report.

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09:00 | CHEP SALES REP ON THE WAY  
    TO MEET WITH A CUSTOMER

brambles is committed to achieving Zero harm, which 
means zero injuries and zero environmental damage, 
and has used a PEFc, chain of custody accredited 
printer to produce this Annual Report.

PEFC/01-00-01

business
NEVER sLeePs

bRAMbLES ANNUAL REPORT 2009

09:00 | TRUCkLOAd Of PALLETS HEAdINg 
  TO CHEP SERvICE CENTRE fOR 
  INSPECTION ANd REPAIR

08:30 | MANUfACTURER dESPATCHEd 
gOOdS ON CHEP PALLETS TO 
A RETAILER dISTRIbUTION 
CENTRE

09:00 | RECALL COURIER EN ROUTE 

TO PICk-UP CUSTOMER 
dOCUMENT CARTONS fOR 
ARCHIvINg

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EVERY SECOND 
eVeRY DAY 
EVERY TRADING  
Continent

Through our global businesses 
of CHEP and Recall, we meet 
the demands of our customers 
efficiently, safely and sustainably 
using sophisticated operating 
models tailored to the demands 
of diverse trading environments 
around the world. 

Despite the challenging 
economic environment, the 
world doesn’t stop – and neither 
do we. Our businesses help 
keep the world moving. From 
fresh produce and groceries to 
the most sensitive paper and 
digital documents, our 12,000 
employees are committed to 
the optimal movement of goods 
and information.

Contents

001 _ Chairman and CEO’s Report
002 _ Performance Summary
004 _ Our Global Reach
006 _ Strategy Matrix
010 _ Operational and Financial Review
018 _ Board of Directors
020 _ Executive Leadership Team
022 _ Corporate Governance Statement
035 _ Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report
049 _ Directors’ Report – Other Information
054 _ Shareholder Information

057 _ Financial Report – Financial Statements
126 _ Financial Report – Directors’ Declaration
127 _ Financial Report – Independent Auditors’ Report
129 _ Auditors’ Independence Declaration
130 _ Five Year Financial Performance Summary
131 _ Glossary
IBC _ Investor Information

note: All growth percentages in this Annual Report are in constant currency, unless stated otherwise.

brambles Limited
AbN 89 118 896 021

inVestoR inFoRMAtion

BramBles limited
Level 40, Gateway
1 Macquarie Place
Sydney NSW 2000
Australia
Telephone: 61 (0) 2 9256 5222
Facsimile: 61 (0) 2 9256 5299
Website: www.brambles.com

brambles Limited has a primary listing on 
the Australian Securities Exchange and a 
secondary listing on the London Stock 
Exchange. The global headquarters of 
brambles is in Sydney, Australia.

All currency amounts in this report are 
in US dollars unless otherwise specified.

annual General meetinG
The 2009 Annual General Meeting of 
brambles Limited will be held on Thursday, 
19 November 2009 at 2.00pm (AEDT) at:

The Savoy ballroom
Grand hyatt Melbourne
123 collins Street
Melbourne Vic 3000

A live webcast of the meeting will be 
broadcast on www.brambles.com.

dividend
The final dividend of 12.5 Australian cents 
per share is 20% franked for all shareholders 
in brambles Limited and will be paid on 
8 october 2009.

brambles Limited offers a dividend 
reinvestment plan for shareholders resident 
in Australia and New Zealand. Further details 
are available from Link Market Services, 
whose contact details shown on page 54.

cDi holders will receive their dividend 
payments as soon as possible after ordinary 
shareholders, once fx transactions have 
been completed.

cDis holders who are also cREST 
participants can expect to receive their 
dividend payments via cREST electronic 
Unmatched Stock Event (USE) messages, 
once the cash has been received and 
reconciled by Euroclear UK & ireland, taking 
note of their election (if any) of a default 
payment currency option as detailed in the 
Euroclear UK and ireland international 
service description.

For cDi holders who use the Equiniti 
corporate nominee service, additional 
processing time is required to print and mail 
cheques, or, for holders who have completed 
dividend mandate forms, to set up cash 
transfers into their bank accounts. All cDi 
holders who use the Equiniti corporate 
nominee service will receive their dividends 
in pounds sterling. 

BramBles Business units

cheP americas
8517 South Park circle
orlando FL 32819-9040
United States of America
Telephone: 1 407 370 2437
Facsimile: 1 407 363 5354
Email: chep@brambles.com
Website: www.chep.com

cheP emea
Rotherwick house
3 Thomas More Street
London
E1W 1YZ
United Kingdom
Telephone: 44 (0) 1932 833 089
Facsimile: 44 (0) 207 702 1612

cheP asia-Pacific
Level 6, building c
11 Talavera Road,
North Ryde NSW 2113
Australia
Telephone: 61 (0) 2 9856 2437
Facsimile: 61 (0) 2 9856 2404

recall
one Recall center
180 Technology Parkway
Norcross GA 30092
United States of America
Telephone: 1 770 776 1000
Facsimile: 1 770 776 1001
Email: recall@brambles.com
Website: www.recall.com

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Chairman and CEO’s rEpOrt

this year the Sustainability Report will be published on Brambles’ 
website prior to the 2009 Annual General Meeting. It will provide 
more information on our journey in creating a sustainable company 
and sustainable shareholder value. 

safety
During the year there were, sadly, two work-related fatalities in the 
Group. In october a Recall vehicle in Canada struck and killed a 
pedestrian and in november, Mr Suresh Kumar, an employee of Recall in 
India was fatally injured from the collapse of file shelving. these tragic 
events are unacceptable and our sincere condolences are extended to 
the families, friends and colleagues of those affected. Brambles has a 
very strong commitment to Zero Harm and we constantly review our 
procedures and processes to reinforce our Zero Harm safety culture 
throughout all workplaces.

CHep usa review 
Brambles has been undertaking a major review of CHep uSA to best 
position the business for the medium and long term. the review is on 
track for completion by the end of September, with the outcomes to be 
announced in early october. Further information can be found on pages 12 
and 13.

well plaCed to aCCelerate finanCial performanCe as 
eConomies reCover 
Brambles’ initiatives to deal with the economic downturn, address 
customer requirements, improve cost structures and realise efficiencies 
will provide a solid foundation to drive future operating performance. We 
will also continue our investments in China, India, Germany and Central 
and eastern europe to drive additional medium to long term growth.

Recent early signs of improving macro-economic stability are 
encouraging. In particular, the destocking by CHep’s customers 
appears to be coming to an end. Improving economic conditions will, 
in due course, positively impact our major customers as they return 
to growth, which in turn will benefit Brambles due to its strong 
underlying business models and robust new business pipeline. 

even in a severe economic downturn, Brambles has delivered sales 
revenue growth. As global economies improve we plan a return to our 
traditional stronger rate of sales revenue growth and we would expect:
 —
organic volumes that declined last year to return to positive growth;
 —
growth on recently won business;
 —
to continue to win significant new business;
 —
additional revenue from our investment in new growth 
opportunities;
CHep to benefit from operating leverage through an improved cost 
structure as pallets are moved back to the market to generate 
revenue; and
improvements in the automotive sector and Recall’s SDS business 
as activity levels improve and recycled paper prices increase.

 —

 —

Consequently, combined with an ongoing focus on cash generation and 
a strong balance sheet, Brambles is well placed to accelerate financial 
performance as economies recover.

Graham Kraehe ao | CHAIRMAn

miKe ihlein | CHIeF exeCutIve oFFICeR

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

1

Mike Ihlein, Ceo (left) and Graham Kraehe Ao, Chairman (right)

Your Company achieved sales revenue growth and a very strong cash 
flow performance for the year ended 30 June 2009 despite the 
weakest global economy in decades. 

this resilient performance demonstrates the strength of our business 
models. new business wins (net of any losses) were approximately 
uS$100 million and, together with some price and mix gains, offset 
weak organic volumes. 

our investment in growth initiatives in China, India, Germany and 
poland, a focus on cash generation, disciplined capital management and 
implementation of initiatives to deal with the economic downturn have 
positioned Brambles well to accelerate its financial performance as the 
world’s economies recover.

A summary of the results can be found on pages 2 and 3, while a full 
review of operations for the year begins on page 10.

dividend
the Board declared a final dividend of 12.5 Australian cents per share, 
franked to 20%, taking the full year dividend total to 30.0 Australian 
cents per share, compared with 34.5 Australian cents the previous year. 
this reflects the Board’s focus on prudent conservation of cash in the 
current environment. During 2009, the Board also introduced a dividend 
reinvestment plan.

Board and Corporate GovernanCe
In March, Mr Brian Schwartz joined the Brambles Board as a 
non-executive Director and in early September 2009 the Company 
announced that Mr John Mullen would join the Board as a non-executive 
Director from 1 november 2009. Both new directors bring a wealth of 
international business experience to the Board.

During the year, the Board continued to review best practice corporate 
governance and consequently implemented a number of changes. 
the Corporate Governance Statement on pages 22 to 34 outlines 
the key components of Brambles’ governance framework.

sustainaBility
Sustainability is fundamental to the way Brambles does business and 
both CHep and Recall make a positive contribution to sustainable 
business practices, especially for our customers. As you can see on pages 
6 and 7, Sustainability is a core part of both CHep and Recall’s strategy. 

performanCe summary

rEsiLiEnt pErFOrmanCE

 +

Revenue growth and strong cash flow

 +

Net new business wins across all regions

 +

 +

Focus on cash generation and disciplined capital management 
reinforces strong balance sheet

Initiatives to improve cost structures and underpin future operating 
performance on track

 +

New Walmart arrangements successfully implemented

us$ millions 

Continuing operations 

Sales revenue 

Underlying profit  

Underlying profit after finance costs and tax  

Significant items after tax  

Profit after tax  

Profit after tax – discontinued operations  

Profit for the year  

earnings per share (us cents) 

EPS on Underlying profit after finance costs and tax  

Basic EPS  

Cash flow 

Cash flow from operations  

Free cash flow after dividends  

Net debt  

Net debt / EBITDA (times)  

EBITDA / net finance costs (times)  

Gearing (net debt/net debt + equity) 

Brambles Value Added (BVA) at fixed exchange rates 

2009 

2008 

% CHanGe 

% CHanGe  
at Constant 
CurrenCy

(8) 

(16) 

(17) 

(33) 

(30)

(15) 

(29) 

1

(8)

(9)

(7)

4,018.6 

900.6 

534.3 

(100.3) 

434.0 

18.6 

452.6 

38.5 

32.6 

722.4 

141.9 

4,358.6 

1,071.9 

640.0 

6.9 

646.9 

1.8 

648.7 

45.4 

46.0 

810.0 

(32.2) 

2,143.4 

2,426.2 

1.8 

10.0 

60.0% 

334 

1.6 

10.0 

61.1%

532

Total dividend (Australian cents per share)  

30.0 

34.5 

note

Constant currency results are presented by translating both 2009 and 2008 foreign currency results into US dollars at the actual 
monthly exchange rates applicable in 2008, so as to show relative performance between the two years before the translation impact 
of currency fluctuations.

30.0C

ToTal dividend 
ausTralian cenTs

$722.4m

cash flow from 
operaTions us$

$1.9B

debT refinanced 
durinG year us$

2

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
rEsiLiEnt pErFOrmanCE

sales revenue us$

$4,018.6m
$900.6m
$534.3m

underlyinG profiT us$

underlyinG profiT afTer 
finance cosTs and Tax us$

38.5C

earninGs per share us cenTs

SALES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS1 
(US$ MILLIONS)

UNDERLYING PROFIT1 
(US$ MILLIONS)

4,359

3,869

4,019

9%

3,522

8%

3,275

8%

40%

8%

38%

36%

38%

38%

37%

8%

36%

38%

36%

39%

By business:

16%

16%

17%

17%

17%

CHEP Asia-Pacific

CHEP EMEA

CHEP Americas

Recall

1,099

953

9%

35%

9%

927

36%

7%

35%

798

10%

617

12%

37%

41%

34%

13%

44%

44%

By business:

47%

CHEP Asia-Pacific

41%

12%

12%

11%

11%

CHEP EMEA

CHEP Americas

Recall

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

CASH FLOW FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS1
(US$ MILLIONS)

EARNINGS PER SHARE2 
(US CENTS)

867

847

752

11%

7%

756

8%

41%

35%

42%

2%

49%

40%

37%

35%

CHEP Asia-Pacific

43%

By business:

25.3

18.2

698

10%

43%

34%

45.4

37.3

38.5

13%

11%

10%

15%

14%

CHEP EMEA

CHEP Americas

Recall

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

note

1  Excludes unallocated Brambles Headquarters costs. 
2  EPS on Underlying profit after finance costs and tax.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

3

our GloBal rea CH

+

45counTries around  

The world

ARGENTINA
AUSTRALIA
AUSTRIA
BELGIUM
BOTSWANA
BRAZIL
CANADA
CHILE
CHINA
CZECH REPUBLIC
DENMARK
FINLAND
FRANCE
GERMANY
GREECE
HONG KONG
HUNGARY
INDIA
INDONESIA
IRELAND
ITALY
LUXEMBOURG
MALAYSIA
MEXICO

NAMIBIA
NETHERLANDS
NEW ZEALAND
NORWAY
POLAND
PORTUGAL
SAUDI ARABIA
SINGAPORE
SLOVAKIA
SLOVENIA
SOUTH AFRICA
SPAIN
SWAZILAND
SWEDEN
SWITZERLAND
TAIWAN
THAILAND
TURKEY
UAE
UK
URUGUAY
USA
ZIMBABWE

$35m

US$ sales revenue 
impact of net new 
business wins in 
CHEP USA

6%

Recall Europe's sales 
revenue growth for 
the year

12%

CHEP Latin America's 
sales revenue growth 
for the year

ToTal asseTs us$

$5.1B
21%
$334m

reTurn on capiTal invesTed

brambles value added (bva) us$

4

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

palleTs & conTainers

1B

+
300m
88m $4.0B

eQuipmenT movemenTs 
manaGed every year 

sales revenue us$

carTons of 
informaTion sTored

$40m

US$ sales revenue 
impact of net new 
business wins in 
CHEP Europe

16%

CHEP Middle East and 
Africa's sales revenue 
growth for the year

250+

Customers CHEP now 
has in its emerging 
China business

4%

Sales revenue growth 
of CHEP Asia-Pacific's 
RPC business

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

5

strateGy matrix

thE jOurnEy ahEad

tHeme

wHat

How

CHep StRAteGY

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION 
AND QUALITY

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE 
AND SUSTAINABILITY 

 +

Deliver superior customer 
value by understanding future 
customer needs, effectively 
target and innovate service 
offerings and achieve 
the highest quality 
customer experience

 +

Leverage know-how, scale 
and network coverage to 
optimise service delivery 
costs and achieve maximum 
environmental benefit for 
CHEP and its customers 
and partners

GROWTH

 +

Drive significant sustainable, 
profitable growth over 
medium to long term

supported By

wHat

PEOPLE

SYSTEMS

 +

Attract, retain and motivate 
the best people to deliver 
CHEP’s strategy 

 +

Deliver cost-effective systems 
solutions to enable growth for 
CHEP and enhanced ease of 
doing business for customers 

 +
 +
 +

 +

 +

 +

 +

 +
 +
 +

 +
 +

 +
 +
 +
 +
 +

 +
 +

 +

 +

 +

 +

Partner with customers
Develop deep insights into future customer needs 
Create innovative services and products (including new 
platforms) to meet and exceed customer current and 
future needs
Continue to deliver quality platforms to achieve the 
best overall supply chain solution
Enhance ease of doing business through simpler, 
improved systems and processes

Minimise supply chain costs through network 
optimisation
Drive process and service delivery efficiency through 
application of Lean, Six Sigma and other tools
Maximise asset efficiency and minimise asset leakage
Realise scale efficiencies
Develop solutions with customers to reduce the 
environmental impact of their supply chain activity
Control emissions and waste
Continue to embed Zero Harm principles 

Expand in existing geographies and segments
Enter new geographies and segments 
Develop new pallet pooling solutions and platforms
Create new service offerings 
Leverage CHEP’s information and customer 
relationships to optimise supply chain costs

How

Attract the best
Develop, motivate, educate and train people to 
achieve potential
Organise to deliver

Leverage global information systems investments in 
SAP and other applications to achieve maximum value 
to CHEP and its customers
Leverage business intelligence capabilities and 
techniques to extract value for customers 
Provide easy-to-use tools to simplify doing business 
with CHEP and enhance customer experience 

6

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

Our objective is to deliver the world’s best supply 
chain solutions and information management 
services to customers. We know what to do and 
how to do it.

tHeme

wHat

How

ReCAll StRAteGY

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

 +

Deliver best in class service, 
security and efficiency 

 +

 +

 +

Leverage global reach through benchmarking and best 
practice sharing
Continuously drive efficiency improvements and ease 
of doing business through Lean, Six Sigma, Perfect 
Order and continuous improvement techniques
Add value to customer relationships through global 
information management tools and world class 
standard operating procedures

PROFITABLE GROWTH

EXPAND THE OFFERING

 +

Develop profitable 
partnerships with current and 
new customers 

 +
 +
 +

Expand in existing geographies and segments 
Enter new segments 
Increase cross-selling and value-added services

 +

Increase value to customers 
through new services, 
products and geographies 

 +

 +
 +
 +

Partner with customers to develop deeper insights into 
future needs and target customer specific solutions
Add complementary service offerings
Enter new geographies
Utilise technology such as radio frequency 
identification (RFID) to increase value to customers

SUSTAINABILITY

 +

Provide value to stakeholders 
through financial stability and 
low environmental impact

 +
 +
 +

Reduce customers’ environmental impact
Control emissions and waste
Continue to embed Zero Harm principles

supported By

wHat

How

PEOPLE

SYSTEMS

 +

Attract, retain and motivate 
the best people to deliver 
Recall’s strategy

 +

Develop industry-leading 
standards to deliver solutions 
that allow customers to work 
effectively and efficiently

 +
 +

 +

 +

 +

Attract the best
Develop, motivate, educate and train people to 
achieve potential
Organise to deliver

Implement multi-year Business Technology 
Transformation Program to develop new solutions 
and drive growth 
Implement industry-leading systems that:
 -

Enable customers to operate more efficiently 
and to focus on their own core business activities
Enhance ease of doing business with Recall

 -

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

7

stratEgy matrix – CONTINUED

CHep Case studies*

1. transport optimisation
Customer and opportunity 
A leading manufacturer of welded steel pipe wanted to centralise 
command and control of its transport management. the company had 
grown by acquisition and transport operations had been assimilated 
without centralisation or process standardisation and it wanted to protect 
itself from significant increases in freight costs.

Solution 
leanlogistics and the customer designed and implemented 
a transport management solution that:
 —

rationalised the carrier base and implemented transport contracts 
using a network-wide rate; 
centralised command and control of transportation through 
leanlogistics on-Demand tMS® solution – from managing 
contracts through to payment of freight bills; and 
employed leanlogistics to manage the day-to-day 
transport operations.

 —

 —

the entire project was accomplished in less than 100 days.

Customer benefits
lower transport costs and higher than expected savings on freight bills. 
A reduction of the carrier base from 230 to 80 (and further reductions 
expected) assures the supply of transport from a more manageable 
carrier base.

A change in freight quotation processes has allowed the customer 
to benefit from standardised rates and carrier contracts and through 
leanlogistics’ on-Demand tMS® solution, provides visibility of its 
transportation and management information in terms of metrics, 
service levels and costs.

2. on-site total pallet management solution
Customer and opportunity
A multi-national consumer goods manufacturing company wanted a high 
quality shipping platform with improved customer service at a lower 
overall cost to serve.

Solution
CHep established a total pallet Management (tpM) program on the 
manufacturer’s site. By using a limited amount of space within the 
customer’s operation, CHep can sort pallets on-site. pallets that meet 
the customer’s criteria are sent directly to its operational area.

the program eliminates legs of transportation in the supply chain 
network and provides the customer an on-site CHep representative 
who can handle all of its pallet-related needs including inventory 
management, quality assurance, invoicing and site level account 
management. 

the site’s success can be gauged by the customer’s willingness to 
establish tpMs at additional manufacturing sites. the customer has 
also agreed to award additional business to CHep.

Customer benefits
the program has achieved immediate annual savings of approximately 
uS$250,000 for the customer by lowering the cost of goods sold. the 
customer is now receiving high quality pallets at a lower overall cost. 
CHep representatives located on site are consistently delivering pallets 
that meet the customer’s needs.

the establishment of a second program on another site is expected 
to deliver additional annual cost savings of uS$200,000. A further 
uS$100,000 in savings is anticipated for additional volume that was 
awarded as a result of the program. 

8

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

3. network optimisation
Opportunity
CHep collects more than 400 million pieces of equipment from its 
european customer base each year and while this process is successful, 
improvements to the process were identified.

Solution 
through the alignment of collection processes and making best use of 
internal data, CHep has developed an intelligent system that predicts pallet 
flows through any one of its 300,000 customer locations across europe.

CHep reviewed core flow volumes through customer locations and found 
that, for most customers, 80% of their volumes were stable. this allows 
CHep to work with customers and transporters to put in place agreements 
that facilitate stable transport flows with a clear, consistent cost base.

the system streamlines transport flows from CHep service centre to 
manufacturer locations then back to the service centre, reducing CHep’s 
costs and making customer collections more reliable.

the process is currently being implemented in europe, with around 70% of 
the volume expected to be covered by the end of the 2009 calendar year.

Customer benefits
this new system allows CHep to more effectively organise transport for 
customers and provides greater assurance that locations will be visited at 
the right time. A predictable process means lower costs and fewer pallet 
losses at each location.

In the uK and Italy, preliminary feedback via customer surveys has been 
encouraging with around 12% increase in satisfaction among retailers.

4. one-touch solution
Customer and opportunity
Woolworths, one of Australia’s largest retailers, turned to CHep to deliver 
a durable, high quality reusable plastic container that could be shipped 
from fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers through the supply chain to end 
retail display with minimal handling.

Solution
In February 2009 CHep and Woolworths launched a specially designed 
range of foldable reusable plastic crates (FRpCs) to streamline the 
delivery of selected fresh produce from suppliers to Woolworths 
supermarkets around Australia.

Developed specifically for the Woolworths supply chain by CHep and the 
FRpC designers, the crates allow fresh produce suppliers to pack and 
transport produce from farms direct to supermarket shelves. the 
one-touch solution means that the Woolworths customer who places the 
produce into their shopping basket is the first person to touch the produce 
since it left the farm. 

Customer benefits
this precision packaging reduces product damage and minimises waste. 
Fully recyclable, the crates are designed to reduce manual handling 
oH&S risks and, by significantly reducing the incremental folding height 
of the crates, achieves up to 40% savings on reverse logistics costs. 

the crates also eliminate the requirement for waxed cardboard cartons, 
string nets and styrofoam plastic boxes in the supply chain and reduce 
waste going to landfill. It is estimated that over 50 million single use 
cardboard cartons will be eliminated from Woolworths’ supply chain 
each year.

*  CHEP will not disclose a customer’s name unless it receives permission from 

the customer.

reCall Case studies*

1. account payables solution
Customer and opportunity 
A global leader in industrial automation and power technologies wanted 
to standardise its accounts payable process in 30 countries. the customer 
also requested that the new process solution be compliant with all local 
laws and regulations. under its current operational framework not only 
was the accounts payable function managed differently in each of the 
targeted 30 countries but internal invoices generated between them were 
also processed in a non-standard manner, adding to the complexity and 
inefficiency of the execution of a critical function within the organisation.

Solution 
Recall implemented a process in which the customer’s suppliers 
send their invoices locally to Recall’s operations. upon receipt of the 
documents, Recall scans, enhances and forwards the information to 
Recall’s Global Centre of excellence in ostersund, Sweden where the 
images are processed by optical character recognition (oCR) technology 
and data files are created to the client’s specifications. the invoice 
images and data files are then transmitted to the customer within 
24 hours of receipt.

Customer benefits
the solution provides the customer a standardised global framework with 
the flexibility to meet specific invoice compliance needs of each country. 
this process solution has reduced both payment processing time and 
administration costs and increased compliance with regulations. this 
process solution has also removed the need to transport several tonnes 
of paper annually, hence benefiting the environment in a variety of ways.

2. document workflow services
Customer and opportunity
A major insurance company operating in South America had an outdated 
document imaging system. With changes in regulation on the horizon 
that would require all applications from 80 separate locations to be 
processed within 15 days, it was unlikely that the customer was going 
to be successful in implementing changes to its legacy systems in order 
to meet the pending legislative change.

Solution 
Recall developed a comprehensive document workflow management 
process that included scanning, indexing, workflow storage, processing 
and retrieval technologies. Recall’s Review and onBase systems were 
used to import the applications, which were then successfully integrated 
with the customer’s legacy systems.

Customer benefits
the time taken to issue insurance policies has been reduced by 50%, 
with the time required to conduct pre-analysis of applications reduced 
by 2,000 hours per month, thus resulting in significant cost savings 
for the customer. the solution implemented by Recall has enabled 
the customer’s service offering to be significantly improved and has 
helped the customer achieve compliance at all locations before the 
regulatory deadline.

3. rfid for information management
Customer and opportunity
A leader in the global pharmaceutical industry required an information 
management solution that could guarantee the traceability of critical 
records throughout their lifecycle and, at the same time, execute audits 
for regulatory compliance both quickly and efficiently. 

Given the sensitive nature of their business and highly regulated 
environment in which the company operates, adherence to global 
standards, process transparency and security were of critical 
importance in selecting a partner. 

After a lengthy audit process, the company selected Recall to implement 
and manage its critical physical records.

Solution 
Recall implemented a physical document management solution that 
tracks information holdings at all stages throughout the chain of 
custody. All company cartons are tagged with a Recall RFID tag 
containing an electronic barcode. once scanned, a carton is 
automatically entered into Recall’s online tracking system.

through adherence to consistent operating procedures in all locations, 
Recall can accurately audit tens of thousands of highly confidential 
records in a fraction of the time and without the risk of human error 
inherent in traditional manual audits.

Customer benefits
the handling of information is more efficient and secure and the customer 
can confidently deliver important information to regulatory agencies in a 
timely and accurate manner.

Saving time means saving money. Increasing accuracy means reducing 
risk. through its partnership with Recall, the customer has the peace of 
mind of both.

4. Credit application management
Customer and opportunity
one of the top five financial institutions in Australia wanted to improve 
the processing time for credit card approvals; specifically from the time 
a customer submits a completed application to receipt of the credit card.

Solution 
processing of credit card applications was removed from the bank’s back 
office and all applications are now sent directly to Recall for processing.

on a daily basis, Recall receives the applications via mail and fax. once 
the data is scanned and captured by oCR technology, quality assurance 
checks are performed to verify specific information required by the bank. 
the data is then transmitted to the bank for processing by its credit card 
approval system. Finally, images are loaded onto Review and can be 
viewed by the bank’s employees within 24 hours of Recall receiving 
the application.

In the bank’s service provider surveys, Recall has been consistently 
scoring 100% each quarter, exceeding Six Sigma standards.

Customer benefits
the time taken to process an application has been reduced from seven 
days to one day. this process solution has reduced operational costs, 
allowing the bank to focus upon its core business and has improved the 
experience for the bank’s customers by significantly improving processing 
turnaround times.

*  For confidentiality and security reasons, Recall does not name individual 

customers.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

9

OpEratiOnaL and FinanCiaL rEviEw

overview – ContinuinG operations
In 2009, Brambles drove sales revenue and cash flow growth across 
the business, with net new business wins and price/mix gains 
offsetting a decline in organic volumes that reflected worsening global 
economic conditions in the last nine months of the financial year.

Group sales revenue: uS$4.019 billion, up 1%1 (down 8% in actual 
currency), an encouraging result reflecting continuing success in 
winning net new business and price/mix gains which, as the economic 
slowdown deepened in the second half, offset a decline in organic 
volume. the automotive sector and recycled paper revenue (affecting 
Secure Destruction Services (SDS) in Recall) were especially weak. 
excluding automotive and SDS, Group sales revenue grew 3%, well 
ahead of the declines in retail sales in many parts of the world. 

underlying profit: uS$900.6 million, down 8% (down 16% in actual 
currency) primarily due to:

 —

factors which were largely economic in nature:
 >

the impact of the global downturn including significantly 
lower revenue from the automotive sector2 in CHep and SDS3 
in Recall
the impact of higher numbers of pallets being returned from 
the field driving increased handling and storage costs and, in 
some cases, greater pallet relocations 

 >

 —

continued investment in growth initiatives such as the developing 
CHep businesses in China, India, Germany and poland, and RpCs 
in Australia

earnings per share on underlying profit after finance costs and tax 
(epS) of 38.5 uS cents was down 7% (down 15% in actual currency). 
Australian dollar epS was 51.7 Australian cents (2008: 50.0 
Australian cents).

free cash flow after dividends for the 2009 year improved strongly 
to uS$141.9 million reflecting continuing strong cash flow from 
operations which was uS$722.4 million, up uS$8.1 million in constant 
currency. lower underlying profit was more than offset by significantly 
reduced capital expenditure, demonstrating the cash generation 
capability of the Brambles business models. 

strong balance sheet with a prudent level of debt and uS$1.2 billion 
of undrawn committed bank facilities at 30 June 2009. uS$1.9 billion 
of debt facilities were renewed during the year.

significant items totalled uS$182.4 million before tax.

After Significant items, statutory operating profit was down 30% 
to uS$718.2 million. profit after tax from continuing operations 
was down 33% to uS$434.0 million and statutory epS was down 29% 
to 32.6 uS cents.

Brambles value added (Bva) for continuing operations was 
uS$334 million, down uS$198 million (at comparable fixed exchange 
rates) reflecting the impact of the economic downturn, Significant 
items within ordinary activities and investments for future growth.

final dividend declared of 12.5 australian cents per share, franked 
to 20%. Including the interim dividend of 17.5 Australian cents per 
share, total dividends declared for the 2009 financial year were 
30.0 Australian cents per share. 

dividend reinvestment plan (DRp) introduced for the 2009 interim 
dividend at a price discount of 2.5%. the DRp remains in place for the 
final dividend.

1  All growth comparisons, except for statutory measures, are in constant currency terms unless otherwise indicated. 
2  CHep’s automotive sales revenue comprises 3% of Brambles’ sales revenue.
3  Recall’s SDS sales revenue comprises 4% of Brambles’ sales revenue.

10

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

us$ million

sales revenue 

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

total CHep 

Recall 

total sales revenue 

underlying profit  

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

total CHep 

Recall 

Brambles HQ 

underlying profit  

net finance costs 

underlying profit before tax  

tax expense on underlying profit 

underlying profit after finance costs and tax 

Significant items after tax 

profit from continuing operations 

profit from discontinued operations 

profit for the year 

2009

2008 % CHanGe 
(aCtual 
fx rates)

% CHanGe 
(Constant 
CurrenCy)

2

–

1

1

1

1

(6)

(7)

(19)

(8)

(3)

(20)

(8)

11

(7)

5

(9)

1,556.9 

1,581.3 

1,452.6 

1,642.1 

323.4 

386.9 

3,332.9 

3,610.3 

685.7 

748.3 

4,018.6 

4,358.6 

434.4 

327.5 

61.1 

823.0 

104.3 

483.8 

396.5 

95.9 

976.2 

122.4 

(2) 

(12) 

(16) 

(8) 

(8) 

(8) 

(10) 

(17) 

(36) 

(16) 

(15) 

(26.7) 

(26.7) 

– 

900.6 

1,071.9 

(16) 

(120.9) 

(149.5) 

19 

779.7 

922.4 

(15) 

(245.4) 

(282.4) 

13 

534.3 

640.0 

(17) 

(100.3) 

6.9 

434.0 

18.6 

452.6 

646.9 

(33) 

1.8 

648.7 

(30) 

Brambles value added (Bva) at fixed exchange rates 

334 

532 

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

11

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OpEratiOnaL and FinanCiaL rEviEw – CONTINUED

Business unit operations review

CHep americas

us$ million

2009

2008

Sales revenue 

1,556.9 

1,581.3 

underlying profit*  

underlying profit margin  

Statutory profit* 

Cash flow from operations 

434.4 

28% 

229.0 

267.0 

483.8 

31% 

452.3 

365.2 

% CHanGe 
(aCtual fx 
rates)

% CHanGe 
(Constant 
CurrenCy)

(2) 

(10) 

2

(6)

(3)pp 

(3)pp

(49) 

* the difference between underlying profit and statutory profit is due to 
Significant items of uS$205.4 million (2008: uS$31.5 million): pallet quality 
program: uS$77.4 million (2008: uS$20.6 million); Walmart net transition 
impact: uS$29.0 million (2008: 10.9 million); Accelerated pallet scrapping: 
uS$99.0 million (2008: nil)

AMeRICAS 
CHep Americas reported increased sales revenue despite the 
challenging economic environment across all countries in the region. 
Sales revenue was uS$1,556.9 million, up 2% (down 2% in actual 
currency), due to significant net new business wins and moderate 
price/mix gains offsetting a decline in organic volumes.

 —

Despite the growth in sales revenue, underlying profit was lower at 
uS$434.4 million, down 6% (down 10% in actual currency), primarily 
due to higher plant and indirect costs. 

plant costs increased by uS$37 million (constant currency) primarily 
due to:
 —

the economic slowdown resulting in higher numbers of pallets 
being returned from the field driving increased handling and 
storage costs (approximately uS$10 million);
increased service centre costs (approximately uS$14 million) 
including costs associated with plant network optimisation, 
increased total pallet Management (tpM) activities and increased 
repair costs related to reducing new pallet commitments; and
other costs (approximately uS$10 million), principally inflation 
and general cost increases.

 —

 —

transport costs reduced by uS$6 million (constant currency) 
reflecting the benefits of plant network optimisation.

Indirect costs increased by uS$30 million (constant currency) 
primarily as a result of investment in growth (mainly leanlogistics 
and latin America expansion) and lower levels of pallet 
compensations in the uSA. CHep Americas’ Irrecoverable pooling 
equipment provision (Ipep) expense was uS$11 million higher, mainly 
due to timing factors (the completion of a significant number of pallet 
audits during the latter part of the year).

CHep Americas cash flow from operations was uS$98.2 million lower 
than the previous year primarily due to expenditure on the CHep uSA 
pallet quality program, the Walmart transition arrangements and the 
reduction in underlying profit. encouragingly, capital expenditure was 
lower than prior year by uS$46.6 million, reflecting progress made on 
converting customers off new pallets leading to 1.5 million fewer 
pallet purchases in the uSA. Second half capital expenditure for CHep 
Americas was uS$22.6 million lower than the first half.

uSA
In CHep uSA, overall volumes declined by 1%. net new business wins 
contributed 3% volume growth but were offset by a 4% decline in 
organic volume. Favourable price and mix resulted in sales revenue 
in line with the prior year. 

12

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

the 2009 sales revenue impact from net new business wins in the 
uSA was approximately uS$35 million. Whilst trading was 
competitive, CHep uSA won new business including Scott’s 
(fertilisers / garden products), new World pasta, the prepared foods 
division of nestlé, Reser’s and Bumble Bee Foods. Although some 
business was lost during the year, the emphasis remains on winning 
new business and winning back lost business with improved service 
and pallet quality. 

on an annualised basis, the sales revenue impact of new business 
wins was sufficient to offset the losses during the year and 
demonstrates the continuing strength of the uSA new business 
sales pipeline.

In line with guidance issued at the interim result, Significant items 
within ordinary activities included:
 —

uS$29.0 million due to the Walmart transition arrangements 
(now completed), slightly below the original uS$30 million 
forecast spend. the future economic cost estimated at 
uS$5 million per annum will be reflected within underlying profit 
from FY10; and
uS$77.4 million operating expenditure on the two year CHep uSA 
pallet quality program together with uS$5.0 million in capital 
expenditure. 

Significant items outside ordinary activities:
 —

uS$99.0 million for a two year program to accelerate the 
scrapping of seven million excess pallets in CHep uSA. these 
excess pallets are a consequence of the rapid slowdown in the 
uSA economy resulting in more pallets being returned from the 
field, together with customer imports into the uSA and 
contractual commitments to a limited number of customer 
locations with new pallets. the program will recover good quality 
lumber for use in future repairs and should contribute to an 
improvement in the overall quality of the pool.

lAtIn AMeRICA AnD CAnADA 
CHep latin America continued to grow strongly with 12% sales 
revenue growth driven by a combination of volume growth from 
new customers and existing business, and some inflationary price 
increases. However, underlying profit declined due to investment 
expenditure for growth and higher commodity costs arising from the 
currency impact of uS dollar denominated costs.

CHep Canada achieved 4% sales revenue growth. the customer base 
was expanded with the addition of nearly 300 new customers in 2009.

leAnloGIStICS
leanlogistics made excellent progress during its first full year of 
ownership by CHep and contributed uS$13.2 million of sales revenue 
in the year which represents over 20% growth on a like-for-like basis. 
the business continued to expand the customer base for its on-Demand 
tMS®4. Sales revenue from its Managed Services offering increased 
significantly and Greenlanes (Freight optimization Services) grew 
steadily throughout the year.

CHep uSA RevIeW
Brambles has been undertaking a major review of CHep uSA to 
position the business for the medium to long term. the review 
will determine the optimal range of service offerings, pallet platforms, 

4   on-Demand tMS® provides customers complete daily planning, execution, and 
settlement functions in addition to periodic strategic procurement of their 
transportation requirements.

 
 
 
pallet quality, service centre network requirements and cost and 
pricing structures to best meet future customer needs. the review 
is on track to be completed by the end of September 2009, with the 
outcomes to be announced in early october 2009. 

As part of the review, further significant and positive customer 
engagement has been undertaken to better understand their future 
needs and market trends, and to determine how CHep uSA can best 
create future growth opportunities and deliver customer requirements. 

the review of the CHep uSA business, when finalised, will be a key 
component of CHep’s broader strategy for the uSA market. Whilst the 
review had not been completed at the time of this report’s publication, 
it is clear to us that a wood pallet platform remains the best solution 
for the broad supply chain in the uSA in terms of both economic and 
environmental sustainability. We believe alternative platforms such 
as plastic are currently not sustainable outside niche segments of the 
uSA supply chain.

CHep emea

us$ million

2009

2008

Sales revenue 

underlying profit* 

underlying profit margin  

Statutory profit* 

Cash flow from operations  

1,452.6 

1,642.1 

327.5 

23% 

286.5 

372.7 

396.5 

24% 

396.5 

296.1 

% CHanGe 
(aCtual fx 
rates)

% CHanGe 
(Constant 
CurrenCy)

(12) 

(17) 

–

(7)

(1)pp 

(2)pp

(28) 

* the difference between underlying profit and statutory profit is due to 
Significant items comprising Restructuring – facilities and operations 
rationalisation uS$41.0 million (2008: nil)

CHep eMeA has delivered a solid performance in a challenging 
economic environment. Sales revenue was uS$1,452.6 million, in 
line with the prior year (down 12% in actual currency), primarily due 
to net new business wins and price/mix offsetting a 5% decline in 
organic volumes.

A significant contributor to the lower organic volumes was the 
automotive business (sales revenue down 22%), which declined 
significantly from october 2008 until stabilising towards the end of the 
year. excluding automotive, CHep eMeA sales revenue increased by 2%.

pallet volumes in europe were in line with 2008. Strong new business 
wins offset a 3% decline in organic pallet volumes due to weak 
economic conditions, which were particularly pronounced in the uK. 
the 2009 sales revenue impact from net new business wins in CHep 
europe was approximately uS$40 million. Wins in the year included 
leche pascual in Spain (won back from a pooling competitor), 
confectioner Haribo in Germany, DIY supplier tarmac in the uK, 
pastacorp in France, leGo in the Czech Republic, Colgate palmolive 
in Denmark and Inergy Automotive Systems.

the focus on Germany and poland has resulted in strong domestic 
growth in B1208A pallets, with associated sales revenue up 20% and 
60% respectively for the year.

Strong sales revenue growth in CHep Middle east and Africa (up 16%) 
was driven by increases in both volume and price. A significant RpC 
contract in South Africa has been signed with pick ‘n’ pay which is 
expected to come fully on stream during FY10. 

CHep europe’s plant costs increased in 2009. the weak economy 
resulted in a higher number of pallets being returned from the field 
leading to increased handling and storage costs. Material and labour 

costs also increased resulting in plant costs as a percentage of sales 
increasing by 1pp to 26%. transportation costs increased mainly due 
to the decision to relocate higher numbers of B1210A pallets from the 
uK to continental europe in order to reduce capital expenditure on new 
pallets. the transportation cost ratio increased 1pp to 24%.

underlying profit in CHep eMeA of uS$327.5 million was 7% lower 
(down 17% in actual currency). the main reasons for the profit 
shortfall were economy driven due to the decline in the automotive 
business and higher pallet relocations as outlined above. overheads 
were in line with last year with investments in the growth markets 
of Germany and poland offset by efficiency programs. the underlying 
profit margin declined slightly to 23% as a result. excluding automotive, 
underlying profit for CHep eMeA was down by 2%.

Cash flow from operations in constant currency increased by 
uS$130.1 million (uS$76.6 million in actual currency) due to lower 
capital expenditure, reflecting careful asset management (including 
the higher pallet relocations) and improvements in working capital 
management. Strong credit control led to europe’s average debtors 
days reducing by 4 days to 54 days.

CHep asia-pacific

us$ million

2009

2008

Sales revenue 

underlying profit* 

underlying profit margin  

Statutory profit* 

Cash flow from operations  

323.4 

386.9 

61.1 

19% 

57.9 

9.8 

95.9 

25% 

95.9 

58.0 

% CHanGe 
(aCtual fx 
rates)

% CHanGe 
(Constant 
CurrenCy)

(16) 

(36) 

1

(19)

 (6)pp 

(5)pp

(40) 

* the difference between underlying profit and statutory profit is due to 
Significant items comprising Restructuring – facilities and operations 
rationalisation uS$3.2 million (2008: nil)

Sales revenue was up 1% to uS$323.4 million (down 16% in actual 
currency). this result was achieved in spite of ongoing difficult 
conditions in the Australian automotive sector, excluding which 
CHep Asia-pacific sales revenue grew by 3%. the established 
pallet businesses in Australia, new Zealand and South east Asia 
demonstrated resilience in difficult trading conditions. Increased 
sales revenue was achieved from the emerging businesses in China 
and India.

RpC sales revenue grew by 4%, driven by the impact of the 
commencement of the new Woolworths FRpC contracts in Australia 
and new Zealand (see page 8). For 2009, the profit growth from 
the part-year contribution from these contracts was exceeded by 
set-up costs to expand the service centre network to serve these 
opportunities.

CHep Asia-pacific’s underlying profit of uS$61.1 million was down 
19% (down 36% in actual currency). this reduction was due to:
 —

substantial production declines in the Australian automotive 
sector;
supply chain destocking in Australia and new Zealand leading to 
higher numbers of net pallet returns, reducing daily hire revenue 
growth and increasing storage and handling costs;
costs incurred in developing new pallet service centres to drive 
future efficiencies and support the commencement of the new 
Woolworths FRpC contract in Australia; and 
costs associated with the start up of the investments in China and 
India and the full year impact of a regional management structure 
to support growth. 

 —

 —

 —

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

13

 
 
 
 
 
 
OpEratiOnaL and FinanCiaL rEviEw – CONTINUED

China and India in aggregate delivered uS$7.8 million of sales 
revenue in 2009 and incurred an underlying loss of uS$17.7 million 
(2008: uS$13.1 million). the increased loss which was in line with 
expectations was largely due to the first full year of operations 
in India.

Cash flow from operations was uS$20.8 million lower, mainly due to 
foreign currency translation. Major capital expenditure during the year 
included racking and safety infrastructure to support growth 
throughout all regions, along with investments in new state-of-the-art 
Information Centres in the uK and thailand. 

the China business has made strong progress in expanding its pallet 
and automotive businesses and now has over 250 customers serviced 
by four offices and over 100 staff. Recent customer wins include 
Hewlett-packard and Chery Automotive, China’s largest independent 
automotive manufacturer. 

the India business commenced operations in June 2008 and provides 
pallet and container services to customers across the country. CHep 
India now has over 50 staff with key customers including pepsiCo, 
Hindustan unilever, procter & Gamble, united Breweries and 
Coca-Cola franchise bottler, Indo european Breweries limited.

Cash flow from operations was uS$48.2 million lower than the 
previous year due to the initial capital investment required to support 
the new Woolworths FRpC contract in Australia and the reduction in 
the region’s underlying profit. Capital expenditure for China and India 
combined was uS$19.0 million in the year (2008: uS$29.0 million). 

recall

us$ million

2009

2008

Sales revenue 

underlying profit* 

underlying profit margin  

Statutory profit* 

685.7 

104.3 

15% 

95.9 

Cash flow from operations  

106.9 

748.3 

122.4 

16% 

121.9 

127.7 

% CHanGe 
(aCtual fx 
rates)

% CHanGe 
(Constant 
CurrenCy)

(8) 

(15) 

1

(3)

 (1)pp 

(1)pp

(21) 

* the difference between underlying profit and statutory profit is due to 
Significant items comprising Restructuring – facilities and operations 
rationalisation uS$8.4 million (2008: $0.5 million)

Recall sales revenue was up 1% to uS$685.7 million (down 8% in 
actual currency). Growth was achieved in all regions except Americas 
(sales revenue down 2%) where the impact of the global economic 
slowdown on the SDS business was felt the most, with significantly 
lower recycled paper revenues. excluding SDS, Recall’s sales revenue 
grew 6%.

A strong performance was achieved in DMS in all regions with carton 
volumes increasing by 6%. Sales revenue of uS$470.8 million was up 
6% (down 5% in actual currency). DMS gross margins increased to 
39% driven by improvements in service delivery efficiencies in north 
America and was achieved despite little growth in customer activity 
levels in the current economic environment. 

SDS sales revenue was down 13% (down 18% in actual currency) 
to uS$145.6 million due to a significant reduction in paper prices and 
lower activity, particularly in north America and europe. the reduction 
in paper prices resulted in the SDS gross margin falling by 7pp to 33%.

underlying profit of uS$104.3 million was 3% lower than the previous 
year (down 15% in actual currency). Recall’s gross profit in constant 
currency was in line with the prior year with improvements in DMS 
offsetting the fall in SDS margins. underlying profit was also impacted 
by investment in information technology and marketing to support 
future growth. Recall implemented cost cutting measures throughout 
the year to respond to the global economic decline. 

additional finanCial information

significant items
In response to the challenging economic environment, Brambles has 
implemented a number of initiatives to improve its cost structure, 
underpin future operating performance over the medium to long term 
and meet customer requirements. During the 2009 financial year, 
Brambles’ continuing operations had Significant items before tax of 
uS$182.4 million (uS$100.3 million after tax). these are set out in 
note 6 (page 74) to the financial statements. 

Capital expenditure on property, plant & equipment 
(accruals basis)

us$ million

2009 

2008 

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

total CHep 

Recall 

Brambles HQ 

290.8 

234.4 

92.7 

337.4 

353.2 

103.7 

617.9 

794.3 

52.4 

2.1 

54.5 

0.4 

CHanGe 
(aCtual fx 
rates)

46.6

118.8

11.0

176.4

2.1

(1.7)

total capital expenditure 

672.4 

849.2 

176.8

Brambles capital expenditure was uS$176.8 million lower than the 
previous year (including the benefit of uS$65.3 million from foreign 
currency translation). Capital expenditure has been tightly managed as 
sales growth slowed and customers reduced stock levels and returned 
more pallets to CHep.

In CHep Americas, capital expenditure was down by uS$46.6 million 
with the majority of the reduction taking place in the second half of 
2009. the main contributor was CHep uSA which benefited from a 
reduction in the number of new pallets required for contractual 
commitments to certain customer locations. Further reductions in 
these commitments and the level of imports into the uSA on CHep 
pallets will continue to benefit capital expenditure in FY10.

CHep eMeA reduced capital expenditure by uS$118.8 million, mainly 
due to lower pallet purchases in the slower economic environment.

CHep Asia-pacific capital expenditure also declined but mainly due to 
foreign currency translation. During the year there was a substantial 
initial investment in containers for a new Australian RpC contract 
which was partially offset by reductions in pallet capital expenditure 
in Australia and China. Capital expenditure in China was lower in 2009 
following the establishment of the pallet pool in the previous year.

total pallet capital expenditure for the Group was uS$462.1 million, 
a reduction of uS$157.0 million on the prior year. the majority of new 
pallet capital purchases was for replacement. the total pallet pool 
was 251 million pallets at the end of the period (inclusive of six million 
excess pallets held for accelerated scrapping in CHep uSA).

Recall capital expenditure included investment in new information 
centres in the uK and thailand as the business invests to improve 
future efficiencies.

14

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Brambles value added (Bva) and return on Capital 
invested (roCi)
In 2009, Brambles continued to focus on the use of BvA which forms 
the core component of short term incentive arrangements for all 
senior executives, including executive Directors.

2009 at 
fixed 
June 08 fx 
us$m

2008 at 
fixed 
June 08 fx 
us$m

2009 
roCi

2008 
roCi

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

CHep 

Recall 

Continuing (pre HQ) 

153 

177 

34 

364 

(5) 

359 

unallocated Brambles HQ costs 

(25) 

total continuing operations 

334 

275 

207 

62 

544 

5 

549 

(17)

532 

26% 

23% 

19% 

24% 

12% 

21% 

32%

25%

31%

29%

13%

25%

21% 

25%

total BvA for Brambles’ continuing operations was uS$334 million, a 
decrease of uS$198 million on the previous year based on comparable 
fixed exchange rates. the reduction reflects the impact of the 
economic downturn, Significant items within ordinary activities and 
investments for future growth. Brambles’ RoCI was 21%.

In CHep Americas, BvA fell uS$122 million due to higher plant costs, 
higher indirect costs, and the adverse impact of uS$106.4 million 
(2008: uS$31.5 million) of Significant items within ordinary activities 
(costs associated with the CHep uSA pallet quality program and the 
Walmart net transition impact). Average Capital Invested in CHep 
Americas increased due to the acquisition of leanlogistics in the 
second half of the previous year and the impact of excess pallet 
holdings in the uSA. Increases in Average Capital Invested combined 
with the fall in underlying profit led to a reduction in RoCI to 26%.

In CHep eMeA, BvA fell uS$30 million driven by the decline in the 
automotive business and a decision to relocate a higher number of 
pallets from the uK to continental europe in order to reduce capital 
expenditure on new pallets. RoCI was 23%.

CHep Asia-pacific’s BvA fell by uS$28 million due to substantial 
production declines in the Australian automotive sector, supply chain 
destocking which increased storage and handling costs, costs incurred 
in developing new service centres and the start up investments in 
China and India, and the full year impact of a regional management 
structure. Average Capital Invested in CHep Asia-pacific increased 
due to the investment in pooling equipment to support growth in China 
and a new RpC contract in Australia. RoCI was 19%. 

Recall’s BvA fell by uS$10 million with improvements in DMS partially 
offsetting a fall in SDS. BvA was also impacted by an investment in 
information technology and marketing to support future growth. 
RoCI was 12%.

finance costs
net finance costs were uS$120.9 million compared to uS$149.5 million 
in 2008. the reduction in net finance costs reflected lower interest 
rates on variable rate borrowings, the increase in euro-denominated 
debt to fund capital repatriations with the equivalent pay-down of 
higher cost Australian dollar denominated debt, and the impact of 
foreign exchange translation due to the stronger uS dollar. these 
benefits were partially offset by higher borrowing margins and fees 
on debt refinanced during the year.

taxation
Brambles’ effective tax rate on underlying profit for the year was 
31.5%, slightly higher than last year’s rate of 30.6% due to the effect 
of higher tax rates in overseas jurisdictions.

the effective tax rate on statutory profit (from continuing operations) 
for the year was 27.3%, broadly in line with last year’s rate of 26.6%, 
and less than the Australian tax rate of 30% primarily due to the 
non-tax effect of foreign exchange gains on the repatriation of capital 
from europe to Australia.

Cash flow

us$ million

Continuing operations 

underlying profit  

Significant items within  
ordinary activities 

2009 

2008 

CHanGe 
(aCtual fx 
rates)

900.6 

1,071.9 

(171.3)

Depreciation & amortisation 

418.4 

458.6 

(106.4) 

(31.5) 

(74.9)

(40.2)

eBitda 

1,212.6 

1,499.0 

(286.4)

Capital expenditure 

(683.8) 

(869.4) 

185.6

proceeds from disposals 

Working capital movement 

Irrecoverable pooling  

equipment provision 

provisions / other  

104.6 

25.8 

133.8 

41.4 

(29.2)

(15.6)

97.8 

91.2 

(34.6) 

(86.0) 

6.6

51.4

Cash flow from  continuing operations  

722.4 

810.0 

(87.6)

Significant items outside  
ordinary activities 

(49.9) 

(27.7) 

(22.2)

Cash flow from operations 

672.5 

782.3 

(109.8)

Financing costs and tax 

(253.0) 

(369.7) 

116.7

free cash flow  

Dividends paid 

419.5 

412.6 

(277.6) 

(444.8) 

free cash flow after dividends 

141.9 

(32.2) 

6.9

167.2

174.1

Free cash flow of uS$419.5 million was strong and sufficient to cover 
uS$277.6 million of dividends paid, resulting in uS$141.9 million of free 
cash flow after dividends.

Brambles continues to generate strong operating cash flows. 
Cash flow from continuing operations was uS$722.4 million, 
an increase of uS$8.1 million in constant currency terms. the 
uS$87.6 million reduction in actual currency terms was primarily 
due to the translation impact of exchange rate movements 
(uS$95.7 million). lower underlying profit was more than offset 
by significantly lower capital expenditure.

nearly 70% of cash flow from operations was generated in the second 
half of the year following significant reductions in capital expenditure 
and working capital. Working capital continues to be tightly controlled 
across the business. Average debtors days improved from 48 to 46 days 
partially offset by a reduction in creditor days.

Significant items outside ordinary activities related to the restructuring 
activities during the year and included uS$22.2 million of expenditure on 
the accelerated scrapping of excess pallets in CHep uSA.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OpEratiOnaL and FinanCiaL rEviEw – CONTINUED

dividends
the Board has declared a final dividend of 12.5 Australian cents per 
share, franked to 20%. Including the interim dividend of 17.5 Australian 
cents per share, total dividends declared for the 2009 financial year 
were 30.0 Australian cents per share (2008: 34.5 Australian cents per 
share). the dividends reflect the Board’s focus on prudent conservation 
of cash in the current environment.

A dividend reinvestment plan was introduced with the interim dividend. 
the Board set the price at which shares are allotted under the plan as 
the arithmetic average of the daily volume weighted average sale price 
of all Brambles shares sold on the Australian Securities exchange (ASx) 
in the ordinary course of trading on the ASx during a nominated 
10 trading days, less a discount of 2.5%. 

funding and liquidity
Brambles funded its operations during the Year through existing equity, 
retained cash flow and borrowings, and manages its capital structure 
so as to be consistent with a solid investment grade credit. Borrowing 
facilities are generally structured on a multi-currency, revolving basis 
with maturities ranging to December 2013. Borrowings under the 
facilities are floating-rate, unsecured obligations with covenants and 
undertakings typical for these types of arrangements. to reduce 
foreign exchange risks, borrowings are arranged in the currency of 
the relevant operating asset to be funded.

net debt at 30 June 2009 was uS$2,143.4 million, down 
uS$282.8 million from 30 June 2008, with positive cash generation 
after dividends and favourable foreign exchange translation on non-uS 
dollar denominated debt balances evenly contributing to the reduction.

Brambles made excellent progress during 2009 to refinance 
committed bank facilities well ahead of their scheduled maturity 
dates. At June 2008, committed bank facilities totalling uS$3.0 billion 
were due to mature in november 2010 (equivalent to uS$2.7 billion at 
June 2009 foreign exchange rates). During 2009, bank facilities of 
uS$1.9 billion were renewed for terms between 3 and 5 years. 
uS$0.7 billion is due to mature in november 2010.

At 30 June 2009, undrawn committed bank facilities totalled 
uS$1.2 billion. expected improvements in cash generation, mainly due 
to a focus on reducing capital expenditure, and these undrawn 
committed facilities should provide additional scope to reduce the 
amount of future refinancing requirements. 

to further improve liquidity, Brambles accessed the uS private 
placement debt market in May 2009 and raised uS$110 million for 
tenors of 5, 7 and 10 years. 

the average term to maturity of total credit facilities increased from 
2.2 years at June 2008 to 3.3 years at June 2009.

the Dividend Reinvestment plan participation rate for the 2009 interim 
dividend was 35% and provided uS$62 million of additional liquidity.

Key financial ratios continue to reflect the strong balance sheet 
position and remain well within the financial covenants included 
in Brambles’ major financing agreements, with net debt to eBItDA 
at 1.8x and eBItDA interest cover at 10.0x. 

16

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

risk management
Brambles is exposed to a variety of market based and financial risks 
(refer to principle 7, page 28), including exposure to fluctuating 
interest and exchange rates, liquidity risks, changing economic 
conditions, technological and industry based risks, competitive 
environment, counterparty credit risks and regulatory changes which, 
either singularly or collectively, may affect revenue, cost structure 
or value of assets within the business, all of which are difficult 
to quantify. 

Brambles’ policies with respect to interest and exchange rate risk and 
appropriate hedging instruments are described below and further 
information is contained in note 30 (page 105) to the Financial 
Statements including a sensitivity analysis (page 107 and page 110) 
with respect to these financial instruments. Brambles’ centralised 
treasury function is responsible for the management of these risks 
within Brambles. 

Standard financial derivatives are used by Brambles to manage 
financial exposures in the normal course of business. Dealings in 
financial derivatives are restricted through a set of delegated 
authorities approved by the Board. no derivatives are used for 
speculative purposes. In addition, derivatives are transacted 
predominantly with relationship banks which have a reasonable 
understanding of Brambles’ business operations. Furthermore, 
individual credit limits are assigned to those banks, thereby limiting 
exposure to credit-related losses in the event of non-performance 
by a counterparty.

interest rate risk
Brambles’ interest rate risk policy is designed to reduce volatility 
in funding costs through prudent selection of hedging instruments. 
this policy includes maintaining a mix of fixed and floating-rate 
instruments within a target band, over a certain time horizon. In 
some cases, interest rate derivatives are used to achieve this result 
synthetically. the present policy is to require the level of fixed rate 
debt to be within 40% to 70% of total forecast debt arising over a 
12 month period, progressively decreasing to 0% to 50% for debt 
maturities extending beyond three years. 

As at 30 June 2009, 41% of Brambles’ weighted average interest-
bearing debt over the next 12 months was at fixed interest rates 
(48% in 2008). the weighted average period was 3.6 years (3.2 years 
in 2008). the fair value of all interest rate swap instruments was 
uS$18.1 million net loss.

foreign exchange risk
Foreign exchange exposures are managed from a perspective of 
protecting shareholder value. exposures generally arise in either 
of two forms: 
 —

transaction exposures affecting the value of transactions 
translated back to the functional currency of the subsidiary; and 
translation exposures affecting the value of assets and liabilities 
of overseas subsidiaries when translated into uS dollars.

 —

under Brambles’ foreign exchange policy, foreign exchange hedging is 
mainly confined to hedging transaction exposures where they exceed 
a certain threshold, and as soon as a defined exposure arises. Within 
Brambles, exposures may arise with external parties or, alternatively, 
by way of cross-border intercompany transactions. Forward foreign 
exchange contracts are primarily used for these purposes. In 
Brambles’ context, these exposures are not significant given the 
nature of its operations. 

translation exposures are mitigated by matching the currency of debt 
with that of the asset. except for a small amount of balance sheet 
hedge borrowing in euro, Brambles does not hedge currency exposures 
incurred on foreign currency profits and net investment balances. 

At the end of the financial year, the fair value of foreign exchange 
instruments was uS$0.5 million net gain.

relative strenGtH of maJor CurrenCies  
aGainst tHe us dollar

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR

EURO

STERLING

1.60

1.50

1.40

1.30

1.20

2.10

1.90

1.70

1.50

1.30

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

Average exchange rate

EURO

Average exchange rate

STERLING

Average exchange rate

2.10

1.90

1.70

1.50

1.30

1.00

0.90

0.80

0.70

0.60

1.60

1.50

1.40

1.30

1.20

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR

Average exchange rate

EURO

Average exchange rate

STERLING

Average exchange rate

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

1.00

0.90

0.80

0.70

0.60

2.10

1.90

1.70

1.50

1.30

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

JUN 07

DEC 07

JUN 08

DEC 08

JUN 09

Average exchange rate

Average exchange rate

Average exchange rate

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR

1.00

0.90

0.80

0.70

0.60

1.60

1.50

1.40

1.30

1.20

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

17

BOard OF dirECtOrs

1.

4.

7.

2.

5.

8.

3.

6.

9.

1. GraHam KraeHe ao  
non-executive Chairman

4. tony froGGatt  
non-executive Director

7. Carolyn Kay 
non-executive Director

2. miKe iHlein 
Chief executive officer

5. david Gosnell 
non-executive Director

8. luKe mayHew 
non-executive Director

3. liZ doHerty  
Chief Financial officer

6. stepHen JoHns  
non-executive Director

9. Brian sCHwartZ am  
non-executive Director

18

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

stepHen JoHns | non-exeCutIve DIReCtoR (InDepenDent)
Chairman of the Audit Committee and member of the Nominations 
Committee
Joined Brambles as a non-executive Director in August 2004. He is 
currently a non-executive director of the Westfield Group, Chairman 
of Spark Infrastructure Group and a director of Sydney Symphony 
limited. previously Stephen had a long executive career with 
Westfield where he held a number of positions including that of 
Finance Director from 1985 to 2002. He has a Bachelor of economics 
degree from the university of Sydney and is a Fellow of the Institute 
of Chartered Accountants in Australia. Age 62.

Carolyn Kay | non-exeCutIve DIReCtoR (InDepenDent)
Member of the Audit Committee
Joined Brambles as a non-executive Director in June 2006. She is a 
director of Commonwealth Bank of Australia limited and the Sydney 
Institute and an external Board Member of Allens Arthur Robinson. 
Carolyn has had extensive experience in international finance at 
Morgan Stanley in london and Melbourne, Jp Morgan in new York 
and Melbourne and linklaters & paines in london. She holds Bachelor 
Degrees in law and Arts from the university of Melbourne and a 
Graduate Diploma in Management from the AGSM. Carolyn is a Fellow 
of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a member of Chief 
executive Women and was awarded a Centenary Medal for services 
to Australian society in business leadership. Age 48.

luKe mayHew | non-exeCutIve DIReCtoR (InDepenDent)
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee
Joined Brambles as a non-executive Director in August 2005. He is a 
non-executive director of WH Smith plc and Chairman of pets at Home 
Group limited. luke was Managing Director of John lewis, the uK’s 
leading department store business, from 2000 to 2004 and Director 
of Research and expansion at John lewis partnership plc, which also 
includes the Waitrose supermarket operation, from 1992 to 2000. He 
previously held senior positions at thomas Cook and British Airways 
and was Chief executive of Shandwick’s european business. He has 
a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree from oxford university and a 
Master of economics degree from the university of london. luke is 
the Chairman of the British Retail Consortium. Age 56.

Brian sCHwartZ am | non-exeCutIve DIReCtoR (InDepenDent)
Member of the Audit Committee
Joined Brambles as a non-executive Director in March 2009. 
Currently a non-executive director of Insurance Australia Group 
limited and the Westfield Group. He is also Deputy Chairman 
of Football Federation Australia and a member of the Federal 
Government’s Multicultural Advisory Council. In March 2009 he 
retired as Ceo of Investec Bank (Australia) limited, although he 
remains as a consultant to the bank. Having joined ernst & Young in 
1979, Brian became a partner in 1985. From 1998 to 2004 he was 
Ceo of ernst & Young Australia and a member of the ernst & Young 
Global executive Board. Brian is a Fellow of the Institute of 
Chartered Accountants in Australia. Age 56.

GraHam KraeHe ao | non-exeCutIve CHAIRMAn 
(InDepenDent)
Chairman of the Nominations Committee and member of the 
Remuneration Committee
Rejoined the Board in December 2005, was appointed Deputy 
Chairman in october 2007 and Chairman in February 2008. He is 
currently a member of the Board of the Reserve Bank of Australia, 
Chairman of Bluescope Steel limited and a director of Djerriwarrh 
Investments limited. Graham was a non-executive Director of 
Brambles from December 2000 until March 2004, when he retired due 
to commitments in his past role as Chairman of national Australia 
Bank limited. He has also been the Managing Director and Chief 
executive officer of Southcorp limited and a non-executive director of 
news Corporation. Graham has a Bachelor of economics degree from 
Adelaide university. He is an officer of the order of Australia. Age 66.

miKe iHlein | CHIeF exeCutIve oFFICeR
Chairman of the Executive Leadership Team
Joined Brambles as Chief Financial officer in March 2004 and became 
Chief executive officer in July 2007. previously, he had a long career 
with Coca-Cola Amatil limited (and related companies), where he was 
Chief Financial officer (1997–2004), Managing Director of Coca-Cola 
Amatil poland (1995–97) and had previously held a number of senior 
business development and treasury roles within that company. Mike 
holds a Bachelor of Business Studies (Accounting) from the university 
of technology, Sydney. He is also an Associate Member of the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors, a CpA Australia and a member of 
Financial Services Institute of Australasia (Finsia). Age 54.

liZ doHerty | CHIeF FInAnCIAl oFFICeR
Member of the Executive Leadership Team
Joined Brambles as Chief Financial officer and executive Director in 
December 2007. She is currently a non-executive director of SABMiller 
plc. liz was Group International Finance Director at tesco plc from 2001 
to 2007. She previously had a long career with unilever plc in increasingly 
senior operating finance roles based in a number of locations, including 
Asia and europe. She holds a First Class Bachelor of Science Degree from 
university of Manchester, uK. liz is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute 
of Management Accountants (FCMA) and a Fellow of the RSA. Age 51.

tony froGGatt | non-exeCutIve DIReCtoR (InDepenDent)
Member of the Nominations Committee and the Remuneration 
Committee
Joined Brambles as a non-executive Director in June 2006. Currently 
a non-executive director of AxA Asia pacific Holdings limited and 
Billabong International limited. previously, he was Chief executive of 
Scottish & newcastle plc from May 2003 to october 2007. tony began 
his career with the Gillette Company and has held a wide range of 
sales, marketing and general management positions in many countries 
with major consumer goods companies including HJ Heinz, Diageo and 
Seagram. He holds a Bachelor of law degree from Queen Mary College, 
london and an MBA from Columbia Business School, new York. Age 61.

david Gosnell | non-exeCutIve DIReCtoR (InDepenDent)
Member of the Audit Committee
Joined Brambles as a non-executive Director in June 2006. He is 
Managing Director of Global Supply and procurement for Diageo plc, 
leading a global team of 9,000 people across manufacturing, logistics 
and technical operations as well as managing Diageo’s multi-billion dollar 
procurement budget. prior to joining Diageo, Mr Gosnell spent 20 years at 
HJ Heinz where he served on the uK board and held various european 
operational positions. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical 
and electronic engineering from Middlesex university, england. Age 52.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

19

ExECutivE LEadErship tEam

1.

4.

7.

2.

5.

8.

3.

6.

1. miKe iHlein 
Chief executive officer

4. Jasper Judd 
Senior vice-president 
– Strategic Development

7. niCK smitH  
Senior vice president 
– Human Resources

2. liZ doHerty 
Chief Financial officer

5. elton potts 
Group president and Chief 
operating officer, Recall

8. CraiG van der l aan 
Group president, CHep Asia-pacific  
Global Head of Mergers 
& Acquisitions

3. tom Gorman 
Group president, CHep eMeA

6. Kevin sHuBa  
Group president, CHep Americas

20

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

miKe iHlein | CHIeF exeCutIve oFFICeR
Chairman of the Executive Leadership Team
Joined Brambles as Chief Financial officer in March 2004 and became 
Chief executive officer in July 2007. previously, he had a long career 
with Coca-Cola Amatil limited (and related companies), where he was 
Chief Financial officer (1997–2004), Managing Director of Coca-Cola 
Amatil poland (1995–97) and had previously held a number of senior 
business development and treasury roles within that company. Mike 
holds a Bachelor of Business Studies (Accounting) from the university 
of technology, Sydney. He is also an Associate Member of the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors, a CpA Australia and a member of 
Financial Services Institute of Australasia (Finsia). Age 54.

elton potts | GROUP PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OPERATING 
OFFICER, RECALL
elton joined Brambles in 2002 as vice president, Controller for 
CHep uSA. that same year he was appointed vice president, Asset 
Management for CHep uSA, and later became Senior vice president, 
Asset Management for CHep uSA in 2003. In December 2006 he was 
appointed Chief operating officer of Recall and then appointed president 
and Chief operating officer of Recall in April 2007. Before joining 
Brambles, elton held various operations and finance roles with owens-
Corning and newell Rubbermaid. He holds a degree in Financial 
Management from Clemson university and an MBA from Capital 
university. Age 45.

liZ doHerty | CHIeF FInAnCIAl oFFICeR
Joined Brambles as Chief Financial officer and executive Director in 
December 2007. She is currently a non-executive director of SABMiller 
plc. liz was Group International Finance Director at tesco plc from 2001 
to 2007. She previously had a long career with unilever plc in increasingly 
senior operating finance roles based in a number of locations, including 
Asia and europe. She holds a First Class Bachelor of Science Degree from 
university of Manchester, uK. liz is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute 
of Management Accountants (FCMA) and a Fellow of the RSA. Age 51.

tom Gorman | GROUP PRESIDENT, CHEP EMEA
tom joined Brambles in March 2008. previously, he had a long career with 
the Ford Motor Company, and served as president Ford Australia from 
March 2004 until January 2008. His previous roles at Ford included 
General Sales Manager; executive Director, north America Fleet, lease 
and Remarketing operations; executive Director, Business Development; 
and Finance Director, Ford France. Before joining Ford, he worked for the 
Bank of Boston. tom graduated from tufts university in 1982 with a 
Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and International Relations and 
in 1987 he graduated from Harvard Business School with a Master of 
Business Administration with distinction. Age 49.

Jasper Judd | SenIoR vICe-pReSIDent – StRAteGIC 
DevelopMent
Jasper joined Brambles in 2002. He served as Acting Chief Financial 
officer following Mike Ihlein’s appointment as Chief executive officer in 
July 2007 and, before that, was Group Financial Controller for about four 
years. His previous roles were Interim Senior vice president and Chief 
Financial officer, CHep europe and General Manager, Finance & 
Administration. Before joining Brambles, he was Chief Financial officer 
of Brainspark plc and held senior financial positions at a number of other 
companies including Booker plc. Jasper is a member of the Institute of 
Chartered Accountants in england and Wales and graduated from 
Cambridge university with a Master of Arts (Hons). Age 48.

Kevin sHuBa | GROUP PRESIDENT, CHEP AMERICAS
Kevin has worked with CHep since 1996, serving as president, CHep uSA 
from november 2006 until his appointment to his current role in 
February 2008. His previous roles at CHep include Senior vice president, 
new Business Development and Senior vice president, Sales & Business 
Development. Before CHep, he worked for insurance company Mason-
McBride Inc from 1994 to 1996 and Baxter Healthcare Corporation from 
1987 to 1994. Kevin attended the united States Military Academy at 
West point, graduating in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science degree in 
engineering. He served in various command and staff positions in the 
united States Army from 1981 to 1986. Age 50.

niCK smitH | SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT – HUMAN RESOURCES
nick joined Brambles in november 2007. previously, nick was the 
Group Human Resources Director for Inchcape plc, the international 
automotive retail group. prior to this nick spent a number of years in the 
telecommunications industry, firstly with British telecom plc, and then 
Cable & Wireless plc. During this period, nick spent three years working 
for Cable & Wireless optus in Australia, where he was Human Resources 
Director. He has also worked for KpMG and Macquarie Bank. nick is a 
qualified management accountant, and has a BSc (econ) in International 
politics and an MBA. Age 48.

CraiG van der laan | GROUP PRESIDENT, CHEP ASIA-PACIFIC  
GLOBAL HEAD OF MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS
Craig joined Brambles in 2001 and, having served continuously as a 
member of Brambles’ global executive leadership team, was appointed 
to his current role in February 2008. His previous roles with Brambles 
include Group General Counsel, Group Company Secretary and global 
head of Human Resources. prior to joining Brambles, he was a General 
Counsel to, and Company Secretary of, the Westfield Group. He holds 
degrees in law (llB (Hons)) and Arts (BA) from the university of Sydney. 
Age 44.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

21

COrpOratE gOvErnanCE statEmEnt

introduCtion
Brambles is a global provider of support services and operates in over 
45 countries, with a primary listing on the ASx and a secondary listing 
on the lSe. It is therefore subject to an extensive range of legal, 
regulatory and governance requirements. Brambles is committed to 
observing the requirements applicable to publicly listed companies 
in Australia and the requirements applicable to companies with a 
secondary listing in the uK. the Board is conscious that best practice 
in the area of corporate governance is continuously evolving, and will 
therefore continue to anticipate and respond to further corporate 
governance developments.

this Corporate Governance Statement outlines the key components 
of Brambles’ governance framework as at 20 August 2009, by 
reference to the ASx Corporate Governance Council Corporate 
Governance principles and Recommendations (CGpR). During the year 
ended 30 June 2009, the Board believes Brambles met or exceeded all 
the requirements of the CGpR.

A checklist summarising Brambles’ compliance with the CGpR is 
included at the end of this Statement. various documents referred 
to in this Statement have been posted in the “Corporate Governance” 
section of the Brambles website at www.brambles.com. the checklist 
includes more detailed guidance on the location of all the governance-
related documents available at www.brambles.com.

the structure of the Board ensures that no individual or group 
of individuals dominates the Board’s decision-making process.

the Brambles executive leadership team assists in implementing 
Brambles’ strategic direction, and ensuring its resources are well 
managed. the team has a range of responsibilities, which include: 
 —
 —

reviewing business and corporate strategies; 
formulating major policies in areas such as succession planning 
and talent management, human and capital resources 
management, information technology, risk management, 
communications and post-investment project reviews; 
leading initiatives which may from time to time vary but include:
 >
 >
 >
leading the implementation of change processes. 

Zero Harm;
development of strategy; and
innovation 

 —

 —

Biographical details for the members of the executive leadership 
team are shown on page 21.

ReSponSIBIlItIeS oF tHe BoARD

1.1.2  
the Board is responsible for setting the Group’s overall strategic 
objectives, facilitating the provision of appropriate financial and 
human resources to meet these objectives and reviewing executive 
management’s performance. 

lay solid foundations for manaGement 

role of the Board and executive management

Role oF tHe BoARD AnD exeCutIve MAnAGeMent

prinCiple 1: 
and oversiGHt
1.1  
1.1.1  
the Board has overall responsibility for overseeing the effective 
management and control of the Group on behalf of Brambles’ 
shareholders, and supervising executive management’s conduct of 
the Group’s affairs within a control and authority framework which 
is designed to enable risk to be prudently and effectively assessed 
and monitored.

the Board has adopted a schedule of matters reserved to it for 
decision, a copy of which can be found at www.brambles.com, and 
further details of which are in section 1.1.2. 

the roles of the Chairman and executive management, led by the 
Chief executive officer, are separated and clearly defined:
 —

the Chairman, Graham Kraehe, is responsible for leadership of the 
Board, setting the Board’s agenda, conducting Board meetings, 
facilitating effective communication with shareholders and the 
conduct of shareholder meetings; and
executive management, led by the Chief executive officer, 
Mike Ihlein, has been delegated responsibility for the management 
of Brambles within the control and authority framework referred 
to above. the levels of authority for management are periodically 
reviewed by the Board and are documented. the Chief executive 
officer is assisted by the executive leadership team.

 —

the non-executive Directors constructively challenge the development 
of strategy. they review the performance of management in meeting 
agreed objectives and monitor the reporting of performance. they 
have a prime role in appointing and where necessary, recommending 
the removal of, executive Directors, and in their succession planning.

22

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

the schedule of matters reserved to the Board for decision includes, 
among other matters:
 —

the establishment of the Group’s overall strategic direction 
and strategic plans for the major business units;
the approval of budgets, financial objectives and policies, 
and significant capital expenditure;
the approval of Brambles’ financial statements and published 
reports;
the establishment and annual review of the effectiveness of 
Brambles’ systems of internal control and risk management 
processes; and
the appointment of key senior executives.

 —

 —

 —

 —

the Board has delegated some of its responsibilities to the Audit, 
nominations and Remuneration committees. the charters of the Board 
committees also require certain matters to be approved by the Board 
including, among other matters, the executive remuneration policy and 
the appointment of the external auditors. the Board is also supported 
by the executive leadership team and the Group Risk Committee, 
which are management committees. Details of these Board and 
executive management committees are set out in sections 1.1.1, 2.4, 
4.1, 7.2.3 and 8.1 and the committee charters can be found at 
www.brambles.com. 

AlloCAtIon oF InDIvIDuAl ReSponSIBIlItIeS

1.1.3  
Formal letters of appointment, which are contracts for service but not 
contracts of employment, have been put in place for all non-executive 
Directors. the letters set out the key terms and conditions of their 
engagement, including time commitments, corporate expectations 
and, if appropriate, any special duties or assignments. A template 
letter of appointment for a non-executive Director is available at 
www.brambles.com.

Senior executives have employment contracts setting out their term 
of office, rights and responsibilities and entitlements on termination, 
and job descriptions setting out their duties.

performance evaluation of senior executives

1.2  
Brambles has a well established performance management and 
development planning process, which is used throughout the Group. 
the process involves objective setting consistent with Brambles' 
remuneration policy and targets, for cash and equity-based incentive 
plans set by the Remuneration Committee. personal development 
planning, half year reviews and full year appraisals feed into a 
performance rating, leading to the assessment of annual bonuses. 
Senior executives (including executive Directors and the executive 
leadership team) all participate in this process, which is overseen 
by the Remuneration Committee.

performance evaluations for senior executives, including executive 
Directors and the executive leadership team, were carried out during 
the Year in accordance with this process.

InDuCtIon oF SenIoR exeCutIveS

1.2.1  
Business units have procedures for the induction of senior executives, 
to assist them in participating fully and actively in management 
decision-making at the earliest opportunity after commencing their 
new roles.

struCture tHe Board to add value

prinCiple 2: 
At the date of the Directors' Report, the Board consists of nine 
members, with two executive Directors (the Chief executive officer 
and the Chief Financial officer) and seven non-executive Directors. 
the biographies for each of the current Directors, shown on page 19, 
indicate the breadth of their business, financial and international 
experience. this gives the Directors the range of skills, knowledge and 
experience essential to govern Brambles, including an understanding 
of the health, safety, environmental and community related issues 
which it faces. the Board considers that its current composition 
reflects an appropriate balance of executive and non-executive 
Directors.

the table below sets out the names of the Directors in office at the 
date of the Directors’ Report, the year of their most recent election 
by shareholders, their status as executive or non-executive Directors, 
whether the Board considers that they are independent Directors, 
whether they will retire and seek re-election at the 2009 AGM, and 
when they are next due for re-election. 

independent directors

InDepenDent DeCISIon-MAKInG

2.1  
2.1.1  
the Board recognises the importance of independent judgement 
and constructive debate on all issues under consideration. With 
the approval of the Chairman, Directors may take independent 
professional advice at Brambles’ expense in the furtherance of 
discharging their duties and responsibilities. none of the Directors 
availed themselves of this right during the Year.

the Chairman holds meetings with the non-executive Directors from 
time to time, including meetings at scheduled sessions, without the 
presence of the executive Directors or other executives. the non-
executive Directors meet without the Chairman present on such 
occasions as may be considered appropriate.

InDepenDent DIReCtoRS

2.1.2  
the Board has considered the independence of each of the Directors 
in office as at the date of the Directors’ Report and concluded that 
all non-executive Directors are independent. therefore the Board has 
a majority of independent directors. In reaching this conclusion, the 
Board had regard to the relationships set out in Box 2.1 of the CGpR 
and noted that one of these relationships exists.

Carolyn Kay is a director of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia 
(CBA), which is a substantial shareholder of Brambles. the Board 
noted that the most recent substantial shareholder notice issued 
by CBA provided that, except for 143,784 shares (being 0.01% of 
Brambles' issued share capital at the date of this Statement), CBA’s 
relevant interests in Brambles shares are exercised either as a 
superannuation trustee; a life company holding statutory funds; 
a responsible entity or manager of a managed investment scheme; 
under an investment mandate; by external managers unrelated to the 
CBA group; or subject to client direction. the Board does not consider 
that Carolyn Kay’s relationship with CBA gives rise to any actual or 
perceived loss of independence on her part because of the manner 
in which CBA's relevant interests in Brambles shares are held. In 
considering the matters in Box 2.1 of the CGpR, the Board considered 
that a customer was material if it accounted for more than 2% of 
Brambles’ consolidated gross revenue and that a supplier was 
material if Brambles accounts for more than 2% of the supplier’s 
consolidated gross revenue.

name

year appointed

year last 
eleCted1

exeCutive or 
non-exeCutive

independent

seeKinG eleCtion/ 
retirinG and seeKinG 
re-eleCtion in 2009

next due for 
re-eleCtion

G J Kraehe Ao

20052

M e Doherty

A G Froggatt

D p Gosnell

M F Ihlein

S p Johns

S C H Kay

C l Mayhew

B M Schwartz AM

2007

2006

2006

2004

2004

2006

2005

2009

2006

2008

2008

2008

2008

2007

2006

2007

–

non-executive

executive

non-executive

non-executive

executive

non-executive

non-executive

non-executive

non-executive

Yes

no

Yes

Yes

no

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

no

no

no

no

Yes

Yes

no

Yes

2009

2011

2011

2011

2011

2009

2009

2010

–

1   For the purposes of this table, the date of last election is the date the relevant Director was last elected to the Boards of Brambles or BIl and BIp. 
2   Graham Kraehe also served as a director from 2000 to 2004, then re-joined the Board in 2005.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

23

COrpOratE gOvErnanCE statEmEnt – CONTINUED

ReGulAR ASSeSSMentS

2.1.3  
Directors are required to complete a declaration of interest form 
prior to their appointment. this form is tabled at the Board meeting 
to consider the appointment of the relevant Director. If their 
circumstances change or they acquire any office, property or interest 
which may conflict with their office as a Director of Brambles or the 
interests of Brambles, Directors are required to disclose its character 
and extent in writing at the next Board meeting. the Board also makes 
an annual assessment of the independence of each non-executive 
Director. If the Board concludes that a Director has lost their status 
as an independent director, that conclusion will be advised to the 
market in a timely manner.

Directors are generally not entitled to attend any part of a Board 
meeting, or to vote on any matter, in which they have a material 
personal interest unless the other Directors unanimously decide 
otherwise. In appropriate cases, Directors may be required to absent 
themselves from a meeting of the Board while such a matter is 
being considered. 

independent Chairman

2.2  
the Board has concluded that the Chairman is independent and that 
his other positions do not prevent him from devoting sufficient time 
to perform the role effectively. As the Chairman is independent, 
the Board does not consider it necessary to appoint a lead 
independent director.

the Chairman is responsible for facilitating the effective contribution 
of non-executive Directors, who are to receive accurate, timely and 
clear information so that they may effectively discharge their duties 
and responsibilities. the Chairman is also responsible for fostering 
constructive relations between executive and non-executive 
Directors.

roles of Chairman and Chief executive officer

2.3  
the roles of Chairman and Chief executive officer are exercised by 
two different individuals and are clearly documented, as discussed in 
section 1.1.1 of this Statement. the Chairman does not have a history 
of employment with Brambles.

nominations Committee

puRpoSe oF tHe noMInAtIonS CoMMIttee

2.4  
2.4.1  
the objective of the nominations Committee is to support and advise 
the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities to shareholders in ensuring 
that the Board is comprised of individuals who are best able to 
discharge the responsibilities of Directors.

CHARteR

2.4.2  
A copy of the nominations Committee’s Charter giving full details of 
its duties and responsibilities can be found at www.brambles.com. 

the nominations Committee’s Charter also sets out its composition, 
structure, membership requirements and the procedures for inviting 
non-members to attend meetings. the Committee is authorised to 
seek any information it requires from any Group employee or from any 
other source, including obtaining outside legal or other independent 
professional advice.

2.4.3  
CoMpoSItIon oF tHe noMInAtIonS CoMMIttee
the nominations Committee is comprised entirely of non-executive 
Directors, all of whom the Board considers to be independent. 
the members of the nominations Committee are Graham Kraehe 
(Committee Chairman), Stephen Johns and tony Froggatt. 

24

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

Details of nominations Committee meetings held during the Year and 
attendance at those meetings, are set out in the Directors’ Report – 
other Information on page 50.

ReSponSIBIlItIeS

2.4.4  
the nominations Committee discharges its responsibilities by meeting 
regularly throughout the year and, among other matters:
 —

assessing periodically the skills required to discharge competently 
the Board’s duties, having regard to the strategic direction of the 
Group, and assessing the skills currently represented on the Board 
to determine whether those current skills meet the required skills 
identified;
reviewing the structure, size and composition (including the 
balance of skills, knowledge and experience) of the Board and 
the effectiveness of the Board as a whole, and keeping under 
review the leadership needs of Brambles, both executive and 
non-executive, with a view to ensuring the continued ability of 
Brambles to compete effectively in the marketplace;
preparing a description of the role and capabilities required for any 
Board appointment, identifying suitable candidates to fill Board 
vacancies as and when they arise and nominating candidates for 
the approval of the Board;
ensuring that, in determining the process for the identification 
of suitable candidates for appointment:
 >

a search is undertaken by an appropriately qualified 
independent third party acting on a brief prepared by the 
Committee which identifies the skills sought;
the search is international, extending to those countries in 
which candidates with the necessary skills would ordinarily 
be expected to be found; and
 >
candidates are considered from a wide range of backgrounds;
ensuring that, on appointment, non-executive Directors receive 
a formal letter of appointment, setting out the time commitment 
and responsibilities envisaged in the appointment;
on any re-appointment of a non-executive Director on the 
conclusion of their specified term of office, undertaking a process 
of review of the retiring non-executive Director’s performance 
during the period from their appointment or most recent 
reappointment, as the case may be, to the Board;
reviewing annually the time commitment required of non-executive 
Directors and carrying out performance evaluations to assess 
whether the non-executive Directors are devoting enough time to 
fulfilling their duties; and 
giving full consideration to appropriate succession planning, 
satisfying itself that processes and plans are in place in relation 
to both Board (particularly for the key roles of Chairman and Chief 
executive officer) and other senior executive appointments.

 >

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

SeleCtIon AnD AppoIntMent pRoCeSS AnD Re-eleCtIon 

2.4.5  
oF DIReCtoRS
the Board is conscious of the need to ensure that proper processes 
are in place to deal with succession issues at Board level. this requires 
the Board to assess periodically the skills and expertise necessary to 
meet Brambles’ demands. the nominations Committee assists the 
Board in this process, which ordinarily involves the identification of the 
need for a new appointee and suitable candidates, the preparation of a 
brief including a description of the role and capabilities required and 
the engagement of independent recruitment organisations.

Board renewal has been ongoing over the past several years. During 
the second half of the 2008 year, the Board, with the assistance of the 
nominations Committee, conducted a review of its skills set (including 
its geographic experience) and appointed Brian Schwartz as a 

non-executive Director in March 2009. In addition, the Board will 
continue to seek to appoint new members in future years to succeed 
existing Directors as they retire, ensuring an appropriate balance of 
skills and experience is maintained. 

A non-executive Director's formal letter of appointment (see section 
1.1.3) sets out, among other things, the time commitment required 
and specifies that the Director should consult with the Chairman 
before accepting any additional commitments which may impact on 
their role. each non-executive Director standing for election or 
re-election at the 2009 Annual General Meeting has considered their 
other significant commitments and specifically acknowledged to 
Brambles that they will have sufficient time to meet what is expected 
of them as Directors of Brambles. Details of the number of Board and 
committee meetings held during the Year, and attendance at those 
meetings by each of the Directors and committee members, are set 
out in the Directors’ Report – other Information on page 50.

Directors are appointed for an unspecified term, but are subject to 
election by shareholders at the first general meeting after their initial 
appointment by the Board. no Director may serve for more than three 
years without being re-elected by shareholders. Re-appointment is 
not automatic. the Board reviews whether retiring Directors should 
stand for re-election, having regard to their performance and the 
contribution of their individual skills and experience to the desired 
overall composition of the Board.

the non-executive Directors' formal letters of appointment confirm 
that the non-executive Directors have no right to compensation on the 
termination of their appointment for any reason, other than for unpaid 
fees and expenses for the period actually served.

process for evaluating the performance of the Board, its 

2.5  
committees and directors
the Board and its committees carry out both internal and external 
evaluations, with the form of evaluation being determined each year. 
For the Year, the Board undertook an enhanced internal evaluation of 
its performance as a whole and the performance of each of its 
committees as well as an evaluation of the performance of individual 
non-executive Directors. the evaluations involved the completion of a 
questionnaire by each of the Directors and executive management on 
matters relevant to the performance of the Board, its committees and 
the non-executive Directors. the Board and committee reviews were 
subsequently presented to, and reviewed by, the Board and each 
committee respectively. the Chairman reviewed the results of each 
individual Director's performance evaluation with that Director. the 
Chairman’s performance evaluation was reviewed with him by the 
Chairman of the Audit Committee.

InDuCtIon AnD eDuCAtIon

2.5.1  
newly appointed Directors receive appropriate induction and training, 
specifically tailored to their needs. Appointees are provided with 
an information pack including governance policies and business 
information, taken to visit operating sites, hold meetings with major 
shareholders and receive presentations on Brambles’ businesses 
and functions by its business unit leaders and functional heads.

on an ongoing basis, Directors participate in various seminars and 
conferences held by industry and professional bodies. In addition, 
Board meetings regularly include sessions on recent developments 
in governance and corporate matters, operational site visits and 
meetings with major customers.

ACCeSS to InFoRMAtIon

2.5.2  
the Board receives accurate, timely and clear information so that it 
may effectively discharge its duties and responsibilities. 
Where necessary, Directors seek clarification or request the 
provision of further information to assist with their decision-making 
processes. the Board committee charters document the committees’ 
unrestricted rights to seek information from any Group employee or 
from any other source. presentations to the Board are frequently 
made by senior executives.

tHe BoARD AnD tHe CoMpAnY SeCRetARY

2.5.3  
the Board is assisted by the Company Secretary who, under the 
direction of the Chairman, is responsible for facilitating good 
information flows within the Board and its committees and between 
senior executives and non-executive Directors, as well as the 
induction of new Directors and the ongoing professional development 
of all Directors. the Company Secretary is responsible for monitoring 
compliance with the Board’s procedures and for advising the Board, 
through the Chairman, on all governance matters. All Directors have 
access to the advice and services of the Company Secretary, whose 
appointment and removal is a matter for the Board.

the Company Secretary is Robert Gerrard. His qualifications and 
experience are set out on page 49.

establish a code of conduct

promote etHiCal and responsiBle 

prinCiple 3: 
deCision-maKinG
3.1  
Brambles has a Code of Conduct, which provides an ethical and legal 
framework for all employees in the conduct of Brambles’ business. 
During the Year, Brambles amended its Code of Conduct, taking into 
account the suggestions for the content of a code of conduct in 
Box 3.1 of the CGpR. Brambles’ Code of Conduct includes the 
following schedules:
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —
 —

Corporate Social Responsibility policy;
Speaking up policy;
Continuous Disclosure and Communications policy;
Group Guidelines for Serious Incident Reporting;
environmental policy;
Competition Compliance policy;
Health and Safety policy;
Securities trading policy;
Risk Management; and
Guidelines for Document Management.

the policies listed above set out the reporting responsibilities of 
specified individuals, or in some cases, all employees. the Audit 
Committee is responsible for monitoring compliance with the Speaking 
up policy and at each meeting receives a report on investigations into 
any matters raised under that policy. A copy of the Code of Conduct is 
at www.brambles.com.

puRpoSe oF tHe CoDe oF ConDuCt

3.1.1  
the Code of Conduct defines how Brambles relates to its 
shareholders, employees, customers, suppliers and the community. 
It includes Brambles’ general principles on business integrity. All 
employees are expected to conduct business in accordance with the 
laws and regulations of the countries in which the business is located, 
and in a manner so as to enhance the reputation of Brambles.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

25

COrpOratE gOvErnanCE statEmEnt – CONTINUED

ApplICAtIon oF tHe CoDe oF ConDuCt

3.1.2  
the Code of Conduct has been translated into several languages, 
so that it can be used to form part of employees' terms and conditions 
of employment. non-executive Directors are required to agree to 
comply with the Code of Conduct and to acknowledge that their 
performance assessments will include an element on conformity with 
the Code.

the Code of Conduct is not intended to be all-encompassing. there are 
areas in which Brambles expects its businesses to develop detailed 
policies in accordance with local requirements. the Code of Conduct 
provides a set of guiding principles that may be supplemented with 
additional local policies. It provides a common behavioural framework.

Brambles implements the Code of Conduct through a variety of 
induction and training programs. During the Year, ongoing training took 
place with the aim of enhancing employees’ compliance with certain 
of the policies under the Code.

the Code of Conduct requires Brambles' contractors to adhere to 
Brambles' health and safety, environmental and serious incident 
reporting standards and requires consultants or professional advisers 
who are engaged to undertake work for the Group to comply with the 
Continuous Disclosure and Communications policy.

securities trading policy

3.2  
Details of Brambles limited securities held by Directors are set out 
on pages 42, 43 and 45. the Board has put in place a Securities trading 
policy covering dealings in securities by:
 —
 —
 —
 —

Directors;
senior executives;
all individuals located in Brambles’ Headquarters;
any other person who is notified that they are subject to the policy 
from time to time; and
their related persons.

 —
(collectively Designated persons). the Securities trading policy 
was updated at the beginning of the Year, taking into account the 
suggestions for the content of a trading policy in Box 3.2 of the CGpR. 

the policy is designed to ensure that shareholders, customers 
and the international business community have confidence that 
Brambles’ Directors and senior executives are expected to comply 
with the law and best practice in corporate governance, and handle 
confidential information lawfully and with integrity. It can be found 
at www.brambles.com.

under the Securities trading policy, Designated persons are required 
to obtain approval before dealing in Brambles limited’s securities, 
and are prohibited from such dealing at certain times, other than in 
exceptional circumstances, and then only where the Designated 
person declares that he or she does not possess any price sensitive, 
non-public information.

Any dealings in Brambles limited securities by a Director or a member 
of the executive leadership team must be reported to Brambles 
within two business days of effecting such dealings. the ASx and a 
uK regulatory information service are notified of these transactions 
within applicable time limits.

the Securities trading policy applies to Brambles’ equity-based 
awards under the incentive plans described in the Remuneration 
Report. the policy prohibits Designated persons from acquiring 
financial products or entering into arrangements which have the 
effect of limiting exposure to the risk of price movements 
of Brambles securities.

26

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

the Securities trading policy also prohibits Designated persons 
from using their securities in Brambles limited as security for a 
margin loan.

Brambles takes compliance with the Securities trading policy 
seriously. A breach of the policy by any employee will be regarded 
as a breach of their conditions of employment and may result 
in termination.

safeGuard inteGrity in finanCial 

prinCiple 4: 
reportinG
4.1  
Brambles confirms that, in accordance with ASx listing Rule 12.7, 
it has had an Audit Committee throughout the Year.

establish an audit Committee

puRpoSe oF tHe AuDIt CoMMIttee

4.1.1  
the objective and purpose of the Audit Committee is to assist the 
Board in fulfilling its corporate governance and oversight 
responsibilities by:
 —

monitoring and reviewing:
 >
 >
 >
 >

the integrity of financial statements;
internal financial controls;
the objectivity and effectiveness of the internal auditors; and
the independence, objectivity and effectiveness of the external 
auditors;

 —

 —

 —

 —

making recommendations to the Board in relation to the 
appointment or removal of the external auditors, the approval of 
their remuneration and the terms of their engagement, including 
the rotation of external audit engagement partners;
assessing whether the Committee is satisfied that the 
independence of the external auditors has been maintained, 
having regard to any non-audit related services;
reviewing and monitoring the policy on the engagement of the 
external auditors to supply non-audit services (set out in the 
Charter of Audit Independence, a copy of which can be found 
at www.brambles.com), taking into account relevant legal and 
ethical guidance regarding the provision of non-audit services by 
the external auditors; and
reporting to the Board, identifying any matters in respect of which 
it considers that action or improvement is needed and making 
recommendations as to the steps to be taken.

structure of the audit Committee

CoMpoSItIon oF tHe AuDIt CoMMIttee

4.2  
4.2.1  
the Audit Committee has four members and is chaired by Stephen 
Johns, an independent Director.

IMpoRtAnCe oF InDepenDenCe

4.2.2  
the Audit Committee is comprised entirely of non-executive Directors, 
all of whom the Board considers to be independent.

teCHnICAl expeRtISe

4.2.3  
the Board considers that each of the members of the Audit 
Committee has recent and relevant financial and accounting 
experience and an understanding of accounting and financial issues 
relevant to the industries in which Brambles operates.

the members of the Audit Committee, including details of their 
relevant qualifications, are as follows: 
 —

Stephen Johns had a long career as a senior executive and director 
of the Westfield Group, holding a number of positions including 
that of Finance Director from 1985 until 2002. He holds a Bachelor 
of economics degree from the university of Sydney and is a Fellow 
of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia.

 —

 —

 —

David Gosnell is the Managing Director of Global Supply and 
procurement for Diageo plc. He holds a Bachelor of Science 
degree in electrical and electronic engineering from Middlesex 
university, england.
Carolyn Kay is a director of CBA and an external Board Member of 
Allens Arthur Robinson. She holds Bachelor Degrees in law and 
Arts from the university of Melbourne and a Graduate Diploma in 
Management from the AGSM. She is a Fellow of the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors.
Brian Schwartz is a non-executive director of Insurance Australia 
Group limited and the Westfield Group. He had a long career at 
ernst & Young, holding a number of senior positions including that 
of Ceo ernst & Young Australia from 1998 to 2004. He is a Fellow 
of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia.

Stephen Johns, David Gosnell and Carolyn Kay were members of the 
Committee throughout the Year; Brian Schwartz became a member 
on 23 June 2009, following his appointment to the Board.

CHARteR

audit Committee Charter

4.3  
4.3.1  
the Audit Committee has a Charter which includes its duties and 
responsibilities, composition, structure, membership requirements, 
authority, access rights and sets out a procedure for inviting 
non-members to attend its meetings. the Charter requires the Audit 
Committee to meet with internal and external auditors at least once 
a year without executive management being present. A copy of the 
Audit Committee’s Charter, which is reviewed annually, can be found 
at www.brambles.com.

ReSponSIBIlItIeS

4.3.2  
the Audit Committee discharges its responsibilities by meeting 
regularly throughout the year and, among other matters:
 —

 —

 —

 —

reviewing, and challenging where necessary, the actions and 
judgment of management in relation to full-year and half-year 
financial reports and other announcements relating to those 
reports prepared for release to the ASx, regulators and the public, 
before making appropriate recommendations to the Board;
reviewing the audit plans of the internal auditors, including the 
scope and materiality level of their audits; monitoring compliance 
with, and the effectiveness of, the audit plans of the internal 
auditors; reviewing reports from the internal auditors on their 
audit findings, management responses and action plans in relation 
to those findings, and reports from the internal auditors on the 
implementation of those action plans; and facilitating an open 
avenue of communication between the internal auditors, the 
external auditors and the Board;
reviewing the audit plans of the external auditors, including the 
nature, scope, materiality level and procedures of their audits; 
monitoring compliance with, and the quality and effectiveness of, 
the audit plans of the external auditors; and reviewing reports 
from the external auditors in relation to their major audit findings, 
management responses and action plans in relation to those 
findings, and reports from the external auditors on the 
implementation of those action plans; and
reviewing and recommending to the Board the fees payable to the 
external auditors, monitoring compliance with the Charter of 
Audit Independence and pre-approving the performance by the 
external auditors of any non-audit related work and any proposed 
fees to be paid to the external auditors for that work, as required 
by the Charter of Audit Independence. the Charter divides 
non-audit work into three categories: work which must be approved 

by the Chief Financial officer (if fees will fall below specified 
limits); work which must be approved by the Audit Committee; 
and work which is prohibited. prior consultation with, and approval 
of the Chief Financial officer or Audit Committee, as prescribed by 
the Charter, is required whenever management recommends that 
the external auditors undertake non-audit work. Internal 
accounting, valuation services, actuarial services and internal 
audit services must not be performed by the external auditors.

the Audit Committee is also responsible for monitoring the Brambles’ 
Speaking up policy, that it is communicated properly and complied 
with throughout Brambles, and for monitoring that appropriate 
protection against victimisation and dismissal is given to Brambles 
employees who make certain disclosures in the public interest.

MeetInGS

4.3.3  
Details of the number of Audit Committee meetings held during the 
Year, and attendance at those meetings, are set out in the Directors’ 
Report – other Information on page 50. Minutes of meetings are 
included in the papers for the next full Board meeting.

RepoRtInG

4.3.4  
the Chairman of the Audit Committee reports to the Board on the 
Committee’s proceedings and on all matters relevant to the 
Committee’s duties and responsibilities. 

establish a continuous disclosure policy

maKe timely and BalanCed disClosure

prinCiple 5: 
5.1  
Brambles is committed to the promotion of investor confidence by 
taking steps within its power to ensure that trading in its securities 
occurs in an efficient and informed market. Brambles recognises 
the importance of effective communication as a key part of building 
shareholder value and that, to prosper and achieve growth, it must, 
among other matters, earn the trust of shareholders, employees, 
customers, suppliers and communities, by being open in its 
communications and consistently delivering on its commitments.

the Board has adopted a Continuous Disclosure and Communications 
policy to:
 —

reinforce Brambles’ commitment to the continuous disclosure 
obligations imposed by law and to describe the processes 
implemented by it to ensure compliance;
outline Brambles’ corporate governance standards and related 
processes and ensure that timely and accurate information about 
Brambles is provided equally to all shareholders and market 
participants; and
outline Brambles’ commitment to communicating effectively 
with shareholders and encouraging shareholder participation 
in shareholder meetings.

 —

 —

the Continuous Disclosure and Communications policy takes into 
account the matters listed in Box 5.1 of the CGpR. A copy can be found 
at www.brambles.com.

to achieve the above objectives and satisfy regulatory requirements, 
the Board provides information to shareholders and the market in 
several ways:
 —

significant announcements are released directly to the market via 
the ASx and a uK regulatory information service. Copies of these 
announcements are immediately placed on www.brambles.com.
Brambles conducts investor and analyst briefings as a part of its 
investor relations programme. no new materials or price sensitive 
information is provided at those briefings unless it has been 

 —

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

27

COrpOratE gOvErnanCE statEmEnt – CONTINUED

 —

previously or is simultaneously released to the market. 
presentation materials are placed on Brambles' website.
www.brambles.com contains further information about Brambles 
and its activities, including copies of recent interim and annual 
reports and recordings of the most recent presentations 
to analysts. 

CoMMentARY on FInAnCIAl ReSultS

5.1.1  
the Audit Committee Charter requires the Committee to review the 
clarity of financial reports. During the Year, a change was made to the 
presentation of the Income Statement, with the aim of simplifying the 
presentation of data and allowing greater transparency and 
understanding of Brambles’ results.

A review of operations and activities for the Year is included on pages 
10 to 17. presentations of the full and half year results are made to 
the investment community immediately after they are released to the 
market. live webcasts of these presentations are transmitted via, and 
presentation materials are placed on, the Brambles website.

5.1.2  
elIMInAtInG SuRpRISe on teRMInAtIon entItleMentS
Details of the termination entitlements of Brambles’ Chief executive 
officer, Chief Financial officer and other Key Management personnel are 
disclosed on page 39 of the Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report.

respeCt tHe riGHts of sHareHolders

prinCiple 6: 
Shareholders play an important role in the governance of Brambles 
by electing the Board, whose task it is to govern on their behalf.

the Chairman regularly meets major investors to understand their 
issues and concerns and discuss particular matters relating to 
Brambles’ governance and strategy. no new material or price sensitive 
information is provided at such meetings. other non-executive 
Directors may attend meetings with major investors and will attend 
them if requested. the Chairman reports to the Board on the matters 
discussed at meetings with major investors and copies of relevant 
correspondence are included in the Board papers. Copies of analysts’ 
reports are also circulated to the Board.

establish a communications policy

6.1  
As disclosed in section 5.1, the Board has adopted a Continuous 
Disclosure and Communications policy, which outlines Brambles’ 
commitment to communicating effectively with shareholders and 
encouraging shareholder participation in shareholder meetings. 
A copy can be found at www.brambles.com.

eleCtRonIC CoMMunICAtIon

6.1.1  
Brambles takes all of the measures to make effective use of 
electronic communication that are outlined in Box 6.1 of the CGpR.

Brambles posts a copy of all announcements made to the ASx and 
through a uK regulatory information service on www.brambles.com. 
on release, significant announcements are highlighted in the “latest 
news” area on the home page of the website.

presentations to investors, analysts or media during briefings 
and copies of speeches and presentations made by the Chairman 
and Chief executive officer at general meetings are released as 
regulatory announcements and posted on www.brambles.com after 
release. Briefings and general meetings are also webcast live, via 
www.brambles.com.

All of the regulatory releases and notices of meeting that Brambles 
limited has published since it was listed in December 2006 are 
available on www.brambles.com, as are several years’ history of such 
documents relating to BIl and BIp, prior to unification.

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BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

Shareholders are asked to elect whether they would like to receive 
shareholder communications in printed form or provide an email address 
and be sent an electronic notification when a communication is available 
on www.brambles.com, instead of a hard copy. Shareholders who do not 
respond are sent a printed notification of availability of the annual 
report and hard copies of all other communications. Shareholders may 
electronically appoint proxies and lodge proxy instructions for items of 
business to be considered at general meetings. the 2009 AGM notice 
describes how this can be done and explains how shareholders can 
lodge direct votes for the first time at the 2009 AGM. 

MeetInGS

6.1.2  
AGMs provide an opportunity for the Board to communicate with 
investors, through presentations on Brambles’ businesses and current 
trading. Shareholders are encouraged to attend AGMs and to 
participate and use the opportunity to ask questions on any matter.

to make better use of the limited time available, shareholders are 
invited to register questions and issues of concern prior to AGMs. 
this can be done either by completing the relevant form accompanying 
the notices convening the meetings or by emailing Brambles at 
shareholderquestions@brambles.com. Answers to frequently asked 
questions are given during presentations to AGMs. Shareholders may 
also ask questions at AGMs without having registered their questions 
in this manner.

CoMMunICAtIon WItH BeneFICIAl oWneRS

6.1.3  
Beneficial owners of shares, investors or members of the public 
are encouraged to register for free email alerts, so that they may 
stay up to date on major news announcements made by Brambles. 
there is a link to the email Alerts registration area of the website 
on the home page of www.brambles.com. users of the email Alerts 
service may customise the types of announcements that they receive.

WeBSIte

6.1.4  
Brambles encourages shareholders to make full use of 
www.brambles.com and to provide an email address to the share 
registry so that they may be sent email notifications when shareholder 
communications are available. Brambles believes shareholders benefit 
from electronic communication as they receive information promptly 
and have the convenience and security of electronic delivery. 
electronic communication is also environmentally friendly and 
generates cost savings.

RISK MAnAGeMent polICIeS

reCoGnise and manaGe risK 
establish policies for the oversight and management of 

prinCiple 7: 
7.1  
material business risks
7.1.1  
the Board is responsible for the establishment, and reviewing the 
effectiveness of the Group’s system of internal control and risk 
management. the Board is supported in this role by management, 
in particular by the Group Risk Committee, the Audit Committee 
(in relation to financial reporting risks) and the Group’s internal audit 
function. the Group Risk Committee’s responsibilities are described 
in section 7.2.3 of this Statement. the Audit Committee’s 
responsibilities are described in section 4.3.2 of this Statement.

During 2008, Brambles commissioned an independent assessment 
of its risk governance framework. Several actions to improve the 
oversight and management of material business risks were taken 
during the Year to implement the principal recommendations arising 
from that assessment. new risk management training materials were 
also developed and used to conduct training sessions to improve risk 
awareness and skills across the Group.

Material business risks are categorised as follows:
 —

strategic risks, which are largely derived from the external 
environment in which Brambles operates (e.g. competitive threat, 
business environment changes);
enablement risks, which are largely derived from Brambles’ own 
competencies (e.g. innovation, people capability); and
operational risks, which are largely related to business operations 
(e.g. safety, business continuity, fire protection).

 —

 —

During the Year, the Board conducted a review of Brambles’ 
Group-level risk profile having regard to its risk appetite and goals of 
creating shareholder wealth and remaining a good corporate citizen. 
the business units formalised their risk management practices by 
establishing individual risk and control committees and conducting 
an in-depth review of the business unit risk profiles that underpin 
the Group-level risk profile. the outcomes of both reviews were 
consolidated by Brambles’ risk management team. the updated risk 
profiles and accompanying mitigation plans were re-evaluated by 
business unit risk and control committees and Group presidents, 
senior management at Brambles Headquarters, the Group Risk 
Committee and the Board. In preparing and updating mitigation plans, 
it was necessary to take into account Brambles’ legal obligations and 
the reasonable expectations of stakeholders, such as shareholders, 
customers, employees, subcontractors, suppliers and the community 
in general.

reporting on effective management of material business risks

RISK MAnAGeMent AnD InteRnAl ContRol SYSteM

7.2  
7.2.1  
Management is responsible for the development, implementation 
and management of systems that:
 —

identify, assess and manage risks in an effective and efficient 
manner;
enable decisions to be based on a comprehensive view of the 
reward-to-risk balance;
provide greater certainty of the delivery of objectives; and
satisfy the Group’s corporate governance requirements.

 —

 —
 —

these systems are designed to limit the risk of failure to achieve 
business objectives. It must be recognised, however, that internal 
control and risk management systems can provide only reasonable, 
and not absolute, assurance against the risk of material loss.

Key elements of Brambles’ internal control systems include:
 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —
 —
 —

a Code of Conduct that sets out an ethical and legal framework 
for all employees in the conduct of Brambles’ business;
financial systems to provide timely, relevant and reliable 
information to management and to the Board;
appropriate formalised delegations and limits of authority 
consistent with Brambles’ objectives;
biannual management declarations at country, regional and global 
levels confirming, among other matters, the adequacy of internal 
control procedures, the effectiveness of risk management 
systems and compliance with the Code of Conduct and all 
regulatory and statutory requirements;
an internal audit function, described in section 7.2.2 of 
this Statement;
a risk management function; 
a risk and control committee for each of its business units; and
other sources of independent assurance, such as environmental 
audits, occupational health and safety audits and reports from 
the external auditors.

the key elements of Brambles’ ongoing business risk management 
systems are set out below: 

Risk control – risks to the achievement of business objectives are 
identified through a process of examination between the Group Risk 
Committee, Brambles’ risk management team, the business unit 
Group presidents, business unit risk and control committees and 
functional process owners. Key business risks are also identified 
and analysed during regular management reporting and discussions. 
the identified risks are assessed in terms of their underlying causes, 
business consequences, external variables, current internal control 
effectiveness, likelihood of occurrence, overall risk priority and risk 
mitigation status. the resulting net risk and control profiles are 
presented to the Board, together with a risk improvement program 
designed to increase the effectiveness of controls and manage the 
overall level of risk. this process forms part of the Board’s annual 
review of the effectiveness of the systems of internal control.

Risk monitoring – there is regular reporting of key risk events, such 
as safety incidents, litigation and serious incidents (as defined in the 
Code of Conduct). In addition to regular monitoring by the Group 
Risk Committee and Brambles' risk management team, risks and 
controls are reassessed by business unit risk and control committees 
on at least a biannual basis. the outcome of those assessments 
and details of progress in implementing risk improvement programs 
are signed off by Group presidents and reported to the Group vice 
president, Risk and Audit. In addition, a report on the effectiveness 
of the management of business risks is provided to the Group Risk 
Committee and the Board. the effectiveness of the specific risk 
controls and risk improvement programs are also periodically 
reviewed by internal audit, and the results reported to the Group 
Risk Committee and the Board.

During the Year, the Board reviewed the effectiveness of the internal 
control and risk management systems and will continue to do so on 
an ongoing basis by:
 —

 —

 —
 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

considering and approving the budget and forward plan of each 
business;
reviewing detailed monthly reports on business performance 
and trends;
setting limits on delegated authority;
receiving regular reports on Brambles’ treasury activities, 
and reviewing treasury guidelines, limits and controls;
conducting the review of Brambles’ risk profiles, as described 
in section 7.1.1 of this Statement;
receiving twice-yearly reports from the Group Risk Committee 
on the effectiveness of internal control and risk management 
systems for Brambles' material business risks, being the report 
required by Recommendation 7.2 of the CGpR;
receiving twice-yearly written assurances from the Chief 
executive officer and Chief Financial officer, as described 
in section 7.3 of this Statement; and
receiving reports from the Audit Committee, which has a 
responsibility to assist the Board in reviewing internal financial 
controls.

the principal risks and uncertainties facing Brambles are 
described below.
 —

economic Cycle – Brambles has operations spread across a 
diverse range of countries and territories. It is subject to risks 
related to global economic and business conditions. these may 

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

29

COrpOratE gOvErnanCE statEmEnt – CONTINUED

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

affect, among other things, profitability, demand for Brambles’ 
services and solvency of counterparties. 
Business environment Changes – Brambles has operations spread 
across a diverse range of countries and territories. It is subject 
to risks related to rapid and sustained changes in the business 
environment, which may invalidate aspects of its current business 
models. these changes could include fuel prices, lumber supply and 
the structure of customers’ supply chains. these may affect, among 
other things, profitability and demand for Brambles’ services.
Climate Change – Brambles is subject to the risk of unforeseen 
impacts upon its businesses arising from climate and 
environmental changes. examples include emissions trading or 
carbon taxes and government regulation such as mandatory 
eco-efficiency targets.
Competition and Retention of Major Customers – Brambles 
operates in a competitive environment. Many of the markets in 
which Brambles operates are served by numerous competitors 
and are subject to the threat of new entrants. In addition, the 
concentration of distributors in certain areas could lead to shifts 
in bargaining position and intensity of competition. the above risks 
could have an impact on market structure, penetration, revenue, 
profitability, economies of scale and the value of existing assets.
Insufficient Growth – Brambles is subject to the risk of not 
selecting the optimal corporate strategy, business model, financial 
structure or capital allocation, including the pace of expansion 
into emerging markets. As these are central to the value of 
shareholders’ investment and protection of Brambles’ assets, 
Brambles may be unable to capture the full value of its growth 
opportunities.
obsolescence of pallet platform – new technologies in pallet 
design or components could influence alternative supply chain 
solutions. this would, over time, have an impact on revenue, cost 
base, economies of scale and the value of CHep’s existing assets.
Innovation – Brambles is subject to the risk of not being able to 
optimise innovations in its services, products, processes and 
commercial solutions, including capturing the full value of any 
innovations that support its growth opportunities. this could have 
an impact on revenue, profitability, economies of scale and the 
value of existing assets.
operational Improvement – Brambles is subject to the risk 
that it may be unable to capture the full value of operational 
improvement opportunities. this could result in a reduced 
ability to control costs or a reduction in control of CHep’s 
equipment pool.
equipment Quality – Satisfaction of CHep customers may 
fluctuate with the customers’ perceived views of equipment 
quality which, in turn, is influenced by the effectiveness of the 
quality standards that CHep employs in its equipment pool. 
Brambles is subject to the risk that it may not optimise these 
standards, thereby adversely affecting customer satisfaction with 
the CHep service offering and/or the operating and capital costs 
of the equipment pool.
people Capability – Brambles is subject to the risk of not 
attracting, developing and retaining high performing individuals 
in the optimum organisational structure, which could result in it 
not having sufficient quality and quantity of people to meet its 
growth and business objectives.
Market Communication – Brambles is subject to risks relating 
to market expectations, which may lead to a loss of investor 
confidence in the business and its management.

30

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 —

 —

Systems and technology – Brambles relies on the continuing 
operation of its information technology and communications 
systems, including those in CHep’s Global Data Centre. Failure 
to optimise these systems, or an extended systems interruption 
event, could impair Brambles’ ability to provide its services 
effectively. this could damage its reputation and, in turn, have 
an adverse effect on its ability to attract and retain customers.
Refinancing – the conditions in global credit markets may create 
a risk that Brambles may be unable to renew its existing credit 
facilities. this could have an impact on Brambles’ ability 
to manage cost-effectively its capital structure whilst continuing 
to fund its key growth opportunities.

InteRnAl AuDIt FunCtIon

7.2.2  
Brambles’ internal audit function carries out risk-based audits under 
an annual plan approved by the Audit Committee. the internal audit 
team makes an independent appraisal of the adequacy and 
effectiveness of Brambles’ risk management and internal control 
system, to provide assurance to the Audit Committee and the Board.

the internal audit function is independent of the external auditor. 
the head of internal audit has direct access to the Chairman of the 
Audit Committee. Both the Audit Committee and the internal audit 
team have unrestricted access to management and the right to seek 
information and explanations.

GRoup RISK CoMMIttee

7.2.3  
the Group Risk Committee is a management committee. It assists the 
Board in fulfilling its responsibilities to review Brambles’ policies on 
risk oversight and management and to satisfy itself that management 
has developed and implemented a sound system of risk management 
and internal control.

the Committee members are liz Doherty (Chief Financial officer 
and Committee Chairman), senior executives from each business unit 
and from Brambles’ accounting, risk and internal audit, legal and 
secretarial functions. A copy of the Group Risk Committee’s Charter 
can be found at www.brambles.com.

Chief executive officer and Chief financial officer declaration

7.3  
the Board receives written assurances from the Chief executive 
officer and Chief Financial officer that the declaration provided 
under section 295A of the Act is founded on a sound system of risk 
management and internal control and that the system is operating 
effectively in all material respects in relation to financial reporting 
risks. the Board receives these assurances in advance of approving 
both the annual and interim financial statements.

establish a remuneration committee

remunerate fairly and responsiBly 

puRpoSe oF tHe ReMuneRAtIon CoMMIttee

prinCiple 8: 
8.1  
8.1.1  
the objective and purpose of the Remuneration Committee is to assist 
the Board in establishing remuneration policies and practices which:
enable Brambles to attract and retain executives and Directors 
 —
who will create value for shareholders;
fairly and responsibly reward executives having regard to the 
performance of Brambles, the performance of the executive and 
the general remuneration environment; and
comply with the provisions of the ASx listing Rules and the Act.

 —

 —

Comparison of remuneration structures

8.2  
there is a clear distinction between the structure of non-executive 
Directors’ remuneration and that of the executive Directors and 
executive management. Brambles has taken account of the guidelines 
for executive remuneration packages in Box 8.1 of the CGpR and 
the guidelines for non-executive director remuneration in Box 8.2 of 
the CGpR. Further details can be found in the Directors’ Report – 
Remuneration Report on pages 35, 36 and 44.

CHARteR

8.1.2  
the Remuneration Committee has a Charter which includes its 
duties and responsibilities, composition, structure, membership 
requirements, authority, access rights and sets out a procedure 
for inviting non-members to attend its meetings. A copy of the 
Remuneration Committee’s Charter can be found at 
www.brambles.com.

CoMpoSItIon oF ReMuneRAtIon CoMMIttee

8.1.3  
the Remuneration Committee is comprised entirely of non-executive 
Directors, all of whom the Board considers to be independent. the 
three members of the Remuneration Committee are luke Mayhew 
(Committee Chairman), Graham Kraehe and tony Froggatt. the 
Remuneration Committee meets at least three times a year. Details 
of the number of Remuneration Committee meetings held during the 
Year and attendance at those meetings, are set out in the Directors’ 
Report – other Information on page 50. 

ReSponSIBIlItIeS oF tHe ReMuneRAtIon CoMMIttee

8.1.4  
the Remuneration Committee discharges its responsibilities by 
meeting regularly throughout the year and, among other matters:
 —

determining and agreeing with the Board the broad policy for the 
remuneration of the Chairman of the Board, the Chief executive 
officer and other members of the senior executive team, and 
reviewing the ongoing appropriateness and relevance of the 
executive remuneration policy;
determining the remuneration for the executive Directors and 
the Company Secretary, reviewing the proposed remuneration for 
the senior executive team, ensuring that contractual terms on 
termination, and any payments made, are fair to the individual 
and Brambles, that failure is not rewarded and that the duty 
to mitigate loss is fully recognised, and, in determining such 
packages and arrangements, giving due regard to all relevant 
regulations and associated guidance;
insofar as they impact on the executive Directors and the senior 
executive team, approving the design of, and determining targets 
for, all cash-based executive incentive plans, and approving the 
total proposed payments from all such plans;
keeping all equity-based plans under review in the light of 
legislative, regulatory and market developments, determining 
each year whether awards will be made under such plans and 
whether there are exceptional circumstances which allow awards 
at other times, approving total proposed awards under each plan, 
and approving awards to executive Directors and reviewing 
awards made to the senior executive team;
annually reviewing and taking account of the remuneration trends 
across Brambles in its main markets, and advising on any major 
changes in employee benefit structures throughout Brambles; 
reviewing the funding and performance of Brambles’ retirement 
plans and reporting to the Board; and
selecting, appointing and setting the terms of reference for 
external remuneration consultants who advise the Committee 
in respect of the remuneration of the executive Directors.

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

 —

ReMuneRAtIon polICY

8.1.5  
Details of Brambles’ remuneration policy can be found in the Directors’ 
Report – Remuneration Report on pages 35, 36 and 44.

the remuneration of the Chairman of Brambles is determined by 
the Remuneration Committee. the remuneration of the other 
non-executive Directors is determined by the executive Directors, 
with the non-executive Directors taking no part in the discussion or 
decision relating to their remuneration. In setting remuneration, 
advice is sought from external remuneration consultants.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

31

COrpOratE gOvErnanCE statEmEnt – CONTINUED

the following checklist summarises Brambles' compliance with the CGpR and contains cross references to the sections of this Statement and 
to the exact location of information disclosed at www.brambles.com.

prinCiple/reCommendation

referenCe

prinCiple 1: lay solid foundations for manaGement and oversiGHt

Recommendation 1.1

Role of the board and management

Recommendation 1.2

performance evaluation of senior executives

Corporate Governance Statement: 1.1

Corporate Governance Statement: 1.2

Recommendation 1.3

Companies should provide the following information in the corporate governance statement:

 —

an explanation of any departures from Recommendations 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3

not applicable

 —

whether a performance evaluation for senior executives has taken place in the reporting 
period and whether it was in accordance with the process disclosed

Corporate Governance Statement: 1.2

A statement of matters reserved for the board, or the board charter or the statement of 
areas of delegated authority to senior executives should be made publicly available, ideally 
by posting it to the company’s website in a clearly marked corporate governance section

www.brambles.com 

See “Corporate Governance”, "Board 

of Directors", “Role of the Board”.

prinCiple 2: struCture tHe Board to add value

Recommendation 2.1

Independent directors

Recommendation 2.2

Independent chairman

Recommendation 2.3

Roles of chairman and chief executive officer

Recommendation 2.4 nomination committee

Corporate Governance Statement: 2.1

Corporate Governance Statement: 2.2

Corporate Governance Statement: 2.3

Corporate Governance Statement: 2.4

Recommendation 2.5

process for evaluating the performance of the board, its committees and directors

Corporate Governance Statement: 2.5

Recommendation 2.6

Companies should provide the following information in the corporate governance statement:

Corporate Governance Statement:

 —

 —

 —

the skills, experience and expertise relevant to the position of director held by each 
director in office at the date of the annual report

the names of the directors considered by the board to constitute independent directors 
and the company’s materiality thresholds

the existence of any of the relationships listed in Box 2.1 and an explanation of why the 
board considers a director to be independent, notwithstanding the existence of those 
relationships

2

2.1.2

2.1.2

 —

a statement as to whether there is a procedure agreed by the board for directors to take 
independent professional advice at the expense of the company

2.1.1

 —

the period of office held by each director in office at the date of the annual report

2

 —

 —

the names of members of the nomination committee and their attendance at meetings 
of the committee, or where a company does not have a nomination committee, how the 
functions of a nomination committee are carried out

2.4.3 and Directors' Report – other 

Information, page 50.

whether a performance evaluation for the board, its committees and directors has 
taken place in the reporting period and whether it was in accordance with the process 
disclosed 

2.5

 —

an explanation of any departures from Recommendations 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5 or 2.6

not applicable

the following material should be made publicly available, ideally by posting it to 
the company’s website in a clearly marked corporate governance section:

 —

a description of the procedure for the selection and appointment of new directors and 
the re-election of incumbent directors

 —

 —

the charter of the nomination committee or a summary of the role, rights, 
responsibilities and membership requirements for that committee
the board’s policy for the nomination and appointment of directors

www.brambles.com

See "Corporate Governance", "Board of 

Directors", "Board Succession planning 

and Renewal".

www.brambles.com

See “Corporate Governance”, 

“Committees of the Board”, 

“nominations Committee”.

32

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

prinCiple/reCommendation

referenCe

prinCiple 3: promote etHiCal and responsiBle deCision-maKinG

Recommendation 3.1

establish a code of conduct

Recommendation 3.2

Securities trading policy

Corporate Governance Statement: 3.1

Corporate Governance Statement: 3.2

Recommendation 3.3

Companies should provide the following information in the corporate governance statement:

 —

an explanation of any departures from Recommendations 3.1, 3.2 or 3.3

not applicable

the following material should be made publicly available, ideally by posting it to the 
company’s website in a clearly marked corporate governance section:

 —
 —

any applicable code of conduct or a summary
the trading policy or a summary

prinCiple 4: safeGuard inteGrity in finanCial reportinG

Recommendation 4.1

establish an audit committee

Recommendation 4.2

Structure of the audit committee

Recommendation 4.3

Audit committee charter

Recommendation 4.4

Companies should provide the following information in the corporate governance statement:

www.brambles.com

See “Corporate Governance”, “other”, 

“Brambles Code of Conduct” 

(which incorporates the Securities 

trading policy as Schedule 8).

Corporate Governance Statement: 4.1

Corporate Governance Statement: 4.2

Corporate Governance Statement: 4.3

 —

 —

the names and qualifications of those appointed to the audit committee and their 
attendance at meetings of the committee, or, where a company does not have an audit 
committee, how the functions of an audit committee are carried out
the number of meetings of the audit committee

Corporate Governance Statement: 4.3 

and Directors’ Report – other 

Information, page 50.

 —

an explanation of any departures from Recommendations 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 or 4.4

not applicable

the following material should be made publicly available, ideally by posting it to the 
company’s website in a clearly marked corporate governance section:

 —
 —

the audit committee charter
information on procedures for the selection and appointment of the external auditor, and 
for the rotation of external audit engagement partners

www.brambles.com

See “Corporate Governance”, 

“Committees of the Board”, “Audit 

Committee”.

prinCiple 5: maKe timely and BalanCed disClosure

Recommendation 5.1

establish a continuous disclosure policy

Corporate Governance Statement: 5.1

Recommendation 5.2

Companies should provide the following information in the corporate governance statement:

 —

an explanation of any departures from Recommendations 5.1 or 5.2

not applicable

the policies or a summary of those policies designed to guide compliance with listing Rule 
disclosure requirements should be made publicly available, ideally by posting them to the 
company’s website in a clearly marked corporate governance section

www.brambles.com

See “Corporate Governance”, “other”, 

“Brambles Code of Conduct” (which 

incorporates the Continuous Disclosure 

and Communications policy as 

Schedule 3).

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

33

COrpOratE gOvErnanCE statEmEnt – CONTINUED

prinCiple/reCommendation

referenCe

prinCiple 6: respeCt tHe riGHts of sHareHolders

Recommendation 6.1

establish a communications policy

Corporate Governance Statement: 6.1

Recommendation 6.2

Companies should provide the following information in the corporate governance statement:

 —

an explanation of any departures from Recommendations 6.1 or 6.2

not applicable

the company should describe how it will communicate with its shareholders publicly, ideally 
by posting this information on the company’s website in a clearly marked corporate 
governance section

www.brambles.com

See “Corporate Governance”, “other”, 

“Brambles Code of Conduct” (which 

incorporates the Continuous Disclosure 

and Communications policy as 

Schedule 3).

prinCiple 7: reCoGnise and manaGe risK

Recommendation 7.1

establish policies for the oversight and management of material business risks

Corporate Governance Statement: 7.1

Recommendation 7.2

Reporting on effective management of material business risks

Corporate Governance Statement: 7.2

Recommendation 7.3

Chief executive officer and Chief Financial officer declaration

Corporate Governance Statement: 7.3

Recommendation 7.4

Companies should provide the following information in the corporate governance statement:

 —

an explanation of any departures from Recommendations 7.1, 7.2 or 7.3 or 7.4

not applicable

 —

whether the board has received the report from management under Recommendation 7.2

Corporate Governance Statement: 7.2

 —

whether the board has received assurance from the chief executive officer (or equivalent) 
and the chief financial officer (or equivalent) under Recommendation 7.3

Corporate Governance Statement: 7.3

the following material should be made publicly available, ideally by posting it to the 
company’s website in a clearly marked corporate governance section:

 —

a summary of the company’s policies on risk oversight and management of material 
business risks

prinCiple 8: remunerate fairly and responsiBly

Recommendation 8.1

establish a remuneration committee

Recommendation 8.2

Comparison of remuneration structure

www.brambles.com

See “Corporate Governance”, 

“Management Committees”, “Group 

Risk Committee”.

Corporate Governance Statement: 8.1

Corporate Governance Statements: 8.1.2 

and Directors’ Report – Remuneration 

Report pages 35, 36 and 44.

Recommendation 8.3

Companies should provide the following information in the corporate governance statement:

 —

the names of the members of the remuneration committee and their attendance at 
meetings of the committee, or where a company does not have a remuneration 
committee, how the functions of a remuneration committee are carried out

Corporate Governance Statement: 8.1.3 

and Directors’ Report – other 

Information, page 50.

 —

the existence and terms of any schemes for retirement benefits, other than 
superannuation, for non-executive directors

not applicable

 —

an explanation of any departures from Recommendations 8.1, 8.2 or 8.3

not applicable

the following material should be made publicly available, ideally by posting it to the 
company’s website in a clearly marked corporate governance section:

 —

 —

the charter of the remuneration committee or a summary of the role, rights, 
responsibilities and membership requirements for that committee
a summary of the company’s policy on prohibiting entering into transactions in 
associated products which limit the economic risk of participating in unvested 
entitlements under any equity-based remuneration schemes

www.brambles.com

See “Corporate Governance”, 

“Committees of the Board”, 

“Remuneration Committee” and 

“Corporate Governance”, “other”, 

“Brambles Code of Conduct” 

(which incorporates the Securities 

trading policy as Schedule 8).

34

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - rEmunEratiOn rEpOrt

At the 2008 Annual General Meeting, Brambles’ shareholders 
endorsed the Company’s proposals for a revised remuneration plan, 
which was designed to underpin our long term growth strategy. the 
Remuneration Committee believes that this plan is still relevant, even 
though Brambles has experienced significant economic challenges and 
volatility in many of its markets.

Brambles has fallen short of the financial targets that were set 
for the current financial year, although some executives did achieve 
a number of their personal strategic objectives. Short term incentive 
cash payments for the year were therefore either nil or modest. In the 
circumstances the executive Directors did not receive bonuses.

enhanced Short term Incentive and long term Incentive equity 
awards, made as at 30 August 2006, will not vest due to the 
relative total shareholder return performance condition not being 
achieved. the actual achievement against the relevant performance 
conditions is set out in section 4.2.1. Short term Incentive equity 
awards granted on 19 January 2007, which are dependent only on 
continued employment for three years, will vest in accordance with 
the 2006 performance Share plan rules.

Contents
1. Background
2. Remuneration Committee
3. Remuneration policy and structure
4. performance of Brambles
5. executive Directors and Disclosable executives
6. non-executive Directors’ disclosures
7. Appendices

BaCKGround

1. 
this Remuneration Report includes information on Brambles’ 
executive Directors, non-executive Directors, and other Group 
executives whose details are required to be disclosed (Disclosable 
executives).

Disclosable executives include those persons having authority and 
responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities 
of the Group, and who, for some or all of the year ending 30 June 
2009 (Year), have been a member of the executive leadership team 
of Brambles (Key Management personnel), as well as the five highest 
paid executives of each of Brambles limited and the Group (other 
Senior executives). 

this report includes all disclosures required by the Act, regulations 
made under that Act, and Australian Accounting Standard AASB 124: 
Related party Disclosures. the disclosures required by s300A of the 
Act have been audited. Disclosures required by the Act cover both 
Brambles limited and the Group.

remuneration Committee

2. 
the Remuneration Committee (Committee) operates under delegated 
authority from Brambles’ Board. the Committee’s responsibilities 
include recommending overall remuneration policy to the Board, 
approving the remuneration arrangements for the executive Directors, 
the executive leadership team and the Company Secretary and 
reviewing the remuneration policy and individual arrangements for 
other executives. 

the Committee’s activities are governed by its Charter, which is 
available on the Brambles website at www.brambles.com on the 
Corporate Governance page. the website details the Remuneration 
Committee, its charter and membership as well as a full list of 

In recognition of Brambles' financial performance and strong 
focus on controlling costs, the Company has taken the following 
key actions:
 —
 —

executive salaries will be generally frozen for financial year 2010;
salaries below the executive leadership team will also be frozen, 
with small increases at lower levels being limited to any 
exceptional performers who are paid below market level;
there will again be no increase in Directors’ fees; and
short term bonuses, if awarded at all, have been modest and 
significantly lower than in recent years.

 —
 —

We are not proposing to make any changes to the executive 
remuneration policies and incentive framework approved by 
shareholders at the 2008 Annual General Meeting.

luke mayhew 
non-executive Director and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

advisors who provided data or consulting services to the Committee 
during the Year. 

remuneration poliCy and struCture

3. 
the Board has adopted a remuneration policy for the Group which is 
consistent with its business objectives and designed to attract and 
retain high calibre executives, align executive rewards with the 
creation of shareholder value, and motivate executives to achieve 
challenging performance levels. 

When setting and reviewing remuneration levels for the executive 
Directors and other members of the executive leadership team, the 
Committee considers the experience, responsibilities and performance 
of the individual and takes into account market data relevant to the 
individual’s role and location, as well as Brambles’ size, geographic 
spread and complexity. the Group’s remuneration policy is to pay 
at the median level of remuneration for target capability and 
performance and to provide upper quartile rewards for outstanding 
capability and performance. 

the structure of Brambles’ current incentive arrangements was 
approved by shareholders at the 2008 Annual General Meeting. these 
plans received a 96% vote in favour and amended the previous long 
term incentive plans approved by shareholders in 2006. 

Remuneration is divided into those components which are not directly 
linked to target capability and performance (that is, they are “Fixed”), 
and those components which are variable and are directly linked to 
Brambles’ financial performance and the delivery of personal and 
safety objectives (that is, they are “At Risk”).

fixed remuneration

3.1  
Fixed remuneration generally consists of base salary and benefits. 
However, as is common elsewhere, the executive Directors and certain 
other managers based in Australia are provided with an annual total 
Fixed Remuneration (tFR) amount and have flexibility as to the precise 
mixture of cash and benefits they receive within that amount. these 
benefits are provided at cost and are inclusive of any Fringe Benefits 
tax (FBt) incurred by the relevant employing company. they may 
include motor vehicles, health care, and disability and life insurance. 
executives who are not covered by tFR may receive similar benefits 
in addition to their base salary.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

35

 
dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - rEmunEratiOn rEpOrt – CONTINUED

As a global group, Brambles operates an international mobility policy 
which can include the provision of housing, payment of relocation 
costs and other location adjustment expenses where appropriate. 

at risk remuneration

3.2  
In addition to those elements of remuneration which are Fixed, a 
significant element of executives’ total potential reward is required 
to be At Risk. this means that an individual’s maximum potential 
remuneration may be achieved only in circumstances where they have 
met challenging objectives which contribute to Brambles’ overall 
profitability and performance for the benefit of all shareholders. the 
proportion of executives' remuneration packages at risk is illustrated 
in section 3.3.

At Risk remuneration is provided to Brambles’ executives through 
short term incentive (StI) and long term incentive (ltI) 
arrangements. All the incentive plans under which awards to 
executive Directors and the Disclosable executives are still to vest 
or be exercised are summarised in sections 7.2 and 7.3. 

Brambles’ At Risk remuneration includes three different types of 
award, an StI cash award, StI share award and an ltI share award, 
the key features of which are illustrated in the following diagram. 
total Shareholder Return (tSR) measures the returns that a company 
has provided for its shareholders, reflecting share price movements 
and reinvestment of dividends over a specified period. the manner in 
which the awards operate is summarised below:

STI CASH AWARD
Size determined by 
performance against 
Key Performance 
Indicators (see 
section 4.1 for 
details) for the Year. 

Equity award date↓
(Normally made late August)

Vesting date ↓
(3rd anniversary of 
equity award date)

STI SHARE AWARD
Size normally 
derived from size of 
STI cash award.

=

Awards vest subject 
to continued 
employment at 3rd 
anniversary of grant.

LTI SHARE AWARD
Size calculated as % 
of salary/TFR.

TSR – Out 
performance of 
median ranked 
company. 
Full vesting for out 
performance of 25%.

Sales revenue 
growth with BVA 
hurdle.

↑ Start of 
Financial Year 1

End of ↑
Financial Year 3

PERFORMANCE PERIOD

the market value at the date of grant of all equity awards made to any 
person in any financial year should not normally (and did not during 
the Year) exceed two times their tFR or equivalent. the Committee 
may, however, increase this limit to three times tFR in exceptional 
circumstances. the StI and ltI share awards have a maximum life 
of six years from grant date.

Brambles' Securities trading policy applies to awards granted under 
the incentive arrangements described above. that policy prohibits 
senior managers from acquiring financial products or entering into 
arrangements which have the effect of limiting exposure to the risk 
of price movements of Brambles securities. It is a term of senior 
executives' employment contracts that they are required to comply 
with all Brambles policies (including the Securities trading policy). 

36

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

Management declarations are obtained twice yearly and include 
a statement that all policies have been complied with.

More detailed information on Brambles’ current incentive 
arrangements is set out in section 4, and in the relevant plan rules, 
which can be found on the Brambles website.

remuneration packages – fixed vs. at risk

3.3  
At Risk remuneration is performance based and is made up of 
short term and long term incentives. It represents approximately 
65-71% of the executive’s remuneration package (based on target 
performance for StI and using the fair market value for share awards). 
the remuneration mix below illustrates that executive remuneration is 
heavily tied to performance, with over two thirds of executive 
remuneration packages being At Risk and tied to performance. 

Remuneration mix based on achievement of target STI and LTI

Fixed

STI

LTI

I

N
O
T
A
R
E
N
U
M
E
R
L
A
T
N
E
T
O
P

I

100%

80%

60%

40%

20%

0%

38%

33%

37%

37%

33%

31%

30%

30%

29%

32%

34%

34%

32%

38%

35%

35%

33%

35%

29%

29%

35%

31%

35%

35%

CEO

CFO

GROUP
PRESIDENT,
AMERICAS

GROUP
PRESIDENT,
EMEA

GROUP
PRESIDENT,
ASIA-
PACIFIC

GROUP
PRESIDENT,
RECALL

SVP HR

SVP 
STRATEGIC
PLANNING

POSITIONS

the following bar graph illustrates the remuneration mix, based on 
actual StI payments, including StI cash awards made in respect to the 
Year, and StI and ltI share awards that vested during the Year. Share 
awards that vested during the Year were granted as at 30 August 2006. 

As shown below, the actual remuneration of executives is between 
44% and 67% less than the potential, due to StI financial results not 
achieving the StI threshold, and ltI share awards only partially 
vesting during the Year.

Details of the percentages of the StI cash award expected to be paid 
to executive Directors and Disclosable executives and the percentages 
of StI cash award forfeited in respect to performance during the Year, 
are detailed in section 5.4.

Remuneration mix based on actual STI and vested LTI for the Year

Fixed

STI

LTI

I

N
O
T
A
R
E
N
U
M
E
R

100%

80%

60%

40%

20%

0%

5%
10%

3%
5%

4%

5%

16%

3%
9%

4%

6%

13%

33%

35%

29%

29%

35%

31%

35%

35%

CEO

CFO*

GROUP
PRESIDENT,
AMERICAS

GROUP
PRESIDENT,
EMEA*

GROUP
PRESIDENT,
ASIA-
PACIFIC

GROUP
PRESIDENT,
RECALL

SVP HR*

SVP 
STRATEGIC
PLANNING

POSITIONS

* ltI Awards that vested during the Year were granted as at 30 August 2006,  
prior to the individual becoming a Disclosable executive.

 
performanCe of BramBles

4. 
Brambles’ remuneration policy is directly linked to its performance, 
both in terms of earnings and the creation of shareholder wealth. 
this link is achieved in the following ways: 
 —

by placing a significant portion of executives’ remuneration 
At Risk;
by selecting appropriate Key performance Indicators (KpIs) for 
annual StI cash awards and performance conditions for equity 
awards; and 
by requiring those KpIs or conditions to be met in order for the 
At Risk component of remuneration to be awarded or to vest.

 —

 —

the relationship between Brambles’ remuneration policy and its 
performance over the Year and the previous four financial years is 
set out in section 4.2.1. the table in section 4.2.1 shows the level 
of vesting of awards triggered by performance over those periods.

sti Key performance indicators

4.1  
As outlined in section 3.2, executives have the opportunity to receive an 
annual StI cash and share award based on performance against KpIs (the 
share element vests three years after the award). the financial KpIs chosen 
for the Year (in addition to an individual’s personal and safety objectives) 
were Brambles value Added (BvA), plus (for the Ceo and the CFo) profit 
After tax (pAt). For CHep and Recall Group presidents, KpIs included 
Brambles BvA and their respective business unit (CHep or Recall) BvA.

A focus on BvA helps ensure the efficient use of capital within 
Brambles. pAt captures interest and tax charges which are not 
directly incorporated in BvA.

the key levels of performance possible against each of the financial KpIs 
relevant to the StI awards for the Year were: threshold (the minimum 
necessary to qualify for the awards); target (where the performance 
targets have been met); and Maximum (where the targets have been 
exceeded, and the related rewards have reached their upper limit). 

In addition to financial measures, which comprises 70% of Brambles 
executive leadership team’s StI, each member has 30% of their StI 
based on the achievement of personal strategic objectives which 
encompass the delivery of objectives relating to business strategy, 
growth, customer, people and talent management and safety.

Safety comprises two key metrics.
 —

 —

lost time Injury Frequency Rate (ltIFR), which measures the 
number of lost time injuries per million work hours.
lost time Injury Severity Rate (ltISR) target, being the number 
of workdays lost per million work hours due to lost time injuries. 
ltISR is intended to complement the focus on injury prevention 
with a further incentive to improve injury management.

Brambles regards the safety of its people as a major priority and the 
executive leadership team (elt), have Group-wide oversight of the 
Zero Harm environment. this means that all elt members will lose 
any entitlement under their safety incentive if a fatality occurs 
anywhere in the Brambles Group.

the actual levels of performance achieved for the Year against the 
financial KpIs are summarised in the table below.

Kpis

Brambles BvA

Brambles pAt

level of performanCe aCHieved durinG 
tHe year1

Below threshold

Below threshold

CHep Americas BvA

Below threshold

CHep eMeA BvA

Below threshold

CHep Asia-pacific BvA

Below threshold

Recall BvA

Below threshold

the table in section 5.4 illustrates the impact of the above results 
on the level of StI cash award payable and forfeited during the Year.

equity award vesting conditions

4.2  
As outlined in section 3.2, Disclosable executives also have the 
opportunity to receive equity awards in the form of ltI share awards. 
the vesting of these only occurs three years from the date of award and 
depends on Brambles’ tSR performance relative to the S&p/ASx100 
over a three year performance period (performance period), as well as, 
in the most recent awards, Brambles’ performance against sales 
revenue growth and BvA hurdles, as described in the following tables. 

A relative tSR performance condition helps ensure that value is only 
delivered to participants if the investment return actually received 
by Brambles’ shareholders is sufficiently high relative to the return they 
could have received by investing in a portfolio of alternative stocks over the 
same period. vesting is also conditional on the Board being satisfied that the 
financial performance of Brambles over the performance period has been 
at an acceptable level. under the 2006 Share plan, tSR calculations are 
normally based on average daily closing share prices in the three months 
immediately preceding the start and end of the performance period.

Details of the equity awards granted to Disclosable executives and the 
performance hurdles which apply to each of the awards are set out 
in section 7.2. the table in section 4.2.1 illustrates the relationship 
between Brambles’ remuneration policy and performance, showing 
the level of vesting of equity awards triggered by performance over 
various periods to 30 June 2008 and to 30 June 2009. 

peRFoRMAnCe AWARDS unDeR tHe 2004 AnD 2006 peRFoRMAnCe SHARe plAnS

4.2.1  
Awards under the above performance Share plans are subject to performance hurdles based on relative tSR. the following table details, 
for awards made during the financial years indicated, the performance against the applicable hurdle for the periods indicated.

awards made  
durinG year

performanCe 
Condition

start of performanCe 
period

ranKinG performanCe 
(out of 100)

vestinG triGGered  
(% of oriGinal award)

vestinG triGGered  
(% of oriGinal award)

period to 30 June 2008

period to 30 June 2009

2005

2006

Relative tSR2

1 July 2004

17.42

100% enhanced StI Awards 
100% ltI Awards

n/A

Relative tSR2

1 July 2005

46.62

20074

Relative tSR3

21 February 2007

81.03

n/A

n/A

0% enhanced StI Awards 
39.52% ltI Awards

0% enhanced StI Awards 
0% ltI Awards

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

37

dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - rEmunEratiOn rEpOrt – CONTINUED

the following table provides similar details for awards which have yet to be tested.

period to 30 June 2009

awards made 
durinG year

performanCe 
Condition

start of performanCe 
period

ranKinG performanCe  
(out of 100)

vestinG if Current performanCe is maintained until earliest 
testinG date (% of oriGinal award)

20084

20095

Relative tSR3

1 July 2007

Relative tSR3

1 July 2008

673

513

0% enhanced StI Awards

0% ltI Awards

0% ltI Awards

ltI AWARD veStInG ConDItIonS

4.2.2  
In november 2008, shareholders approved changes to the 2006 
Share plan, to introduce two sets of performance hurdles, each 
with equal weighting. 

All eMploYee SHARe plAn

4.2.3  
At the 2008 Annual General Meeting, shareholders gave approval 
to an all employee share plan (MyShare), which was implemented 
in January 2009. 

the initial launch was highly successful with approximately 20% of 
employees electing to participate in the plan. MyShare was offered 
to over 11,000 employees in 24 countries.

the plan is an employee contribution and company matching scheme. 
this type of plan is considered to offer the best opportunity for 
employees to make a personal commitment to contribute, and 
receive a benefit commensurate with their contribution.

under MyShare, employees acquire ordinary shares (Acquired Shares) 
by means of deductions from their after-tax pay and must hold the 
Acquired Shares for a two year period. If they hold the shares, and 
remain employed at the end of that two year period, then Brambles 
will match the number of shares they hold by issuing or transferring 
to them the same number of shares which they held for the qualifying 
period at no additional cost to the employee (Matched Shares). the 
plan is capped at A$5,000 in contributions per individual per annum 
to ensure that the overall costs of the plan are not excessive.

Members of the executive leadership team are eligible to participate 
in MyShare. their level of participation is shown in section 5.5. 

At the end of the 2009 calendar year MyShare will be offered to 
employees for the 2010 calendar year. employees in taiwan will be 
invited to participate in MyShare for the first time and an interim offer 
will be made to new employees, giving them the opportunity of taking 
up MyShare half way through a plan year. In the 2010 calendar year, 
there will be significant moves toward being paperless, relying heavily 
on the Internet to minimise paper use and postage costs.

Half of the ltI award continues to be measured on relative tSR 
based on the extent to which the Brambles tSR over the performance 
period exceeds the tSR of the median ranked company in the ASx 100 
over this period. this measurement is designed to smooth out the 
cyclical volatility in the ASx 100 index.

the other half of the ltI award is measured against the achievement 
of profitable growth objectives. the growth element of the ltI is 
designed to incentivise both long term revenue and BvA growth. 
vesting is primarily based on achievement of sales revenue with three 
year performance hurdles set on a compound annual growth rate basis, 
with the sales revenue growth underpinned by BvA hurdles to ensure 
quality of earnings is maintained at a strong level. Both sales revenue 
growth and BvA are measured in constant currency. the sales revenue 
growth targets underpinned by BvA hurdles are designed to drive 
profitable business growth and deliver increased shareholder value.

the following table provides the vesting framework for the relevant 
awards made during the Year. If current performance is maintained 
until the performance hurdles are assessed, the awards will 
not vest.

vestinG%

Cumulative, 3 year Bva  
us$m at fixed June 2007 fx rates

sales revenue CaGr*

1,800

2,000

2,200

7%

8%

9%

10%

11%

12%

13%

–

20%

40%

50%

70%

90%

100%

20%

40%

50%

70%

90%

100%

100%

40%

50%

70%

90%

100%

100%

100%

* three year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over base year

38

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

5. 

exeCutive direCtors and disClosaBle exeCutives

executive director changes

5.1  
there were no appointments or resignations of executive Directors during the Year.

5.2  

service contracts

name and role(s)

ContraCt type and any speCial terms

salary/tfr

termination

executive directors

m f ihlein 

Chief executive 
officer

m e doherty6

Chief Financial 
officer

Continuing contract. on death, estate 
entitled to 1.3 times tFR amount.

tFR (including pension 
contributions) amount of 
A$2,363,000 as at 30 June 2009.

Standard termination provisions apply. payments 
in lieu of notice calculated by reference to 
annual tFR.

Continuing contract. on death, estate 
entitled to 1.3 times tFR amount.

tFR (including pension 
contributions) of A$1,260,000 
as at 30 June 2009.

Standard termination provisions apply. payments in 
lieu of notice calculated by reference to annual tFR.

Current Key management personnel

C a van der laan

Group president 
CHep Asia-pacific 
and Global Head of 
Mergers & 
Acquisitions

Continuing contract. on death, estate 
entitled to 0.5 times tFR amount and 
0.5 times average annual StI paid to 
him over three previous years. 

tFR (including pension 
contributions) amount of 
A$1,025,000 as at 30 June 2009.

May be terminated without cause by the employer 
giving 12 months’ notice, or by employee giving 
six months’ notice. payments in lieu of notice 
calculated by reference to annual tFR and 
average StI cash award payment over previous 
three years.

t J Gorman

Continuing contract

Group president 
CHep europe, Middle 
east and Africa 
(eMeA)

Base Salary of uS$630,000 as at 
30 June 2009.

Standard termination provisions apply.

K J shuba

Continuing contract

Group president 
CHep Americas

Base Salary of uS$530,000 as at 
30 June 2009.

e e potts

Continuing contract

president and Chief 
operating officer 
Recall Corporation

n p smith

Continuing contract

Senior vice president 
- Human Resources

J r a Judd

Continuing contract

Senior vice president 
- Strategic 
Development

former senior executive

C m norin

Standard contract

president – Recall 
Americas

Base Salary of uS$489,000 as at 
30 June 2009. 

May be terminated without cause by the employer 
giving 12 months’ notice, or by employee giving 
six months’ notice. payments in lieu of notice 
calculated by reference to annual base salary 
and health insurance benefits.

May be terminated without cause by the employer 
giving 12 months’ notice, or by employee giving 
six months’ notice. payments in lieu of notice 
calculated by reference to annual base salary 
and health insurance benefits.

Base Salary of A$575,000 as at 
30 June 2009.

Standard termination provisions apply.

Base Salary of A$500,000 as at 
30 June 2009.

Standard termination provisions apply.

Base Salary of uS$432,600 as at 
17 February 2009 (date of 
cessation).

Standard termination provisions apply, plus an 
amount equal to the excess of twelve months of 
premium for statutory continuation of medical 
and dental benefits.

notes:
•  Standard Termination provisions for Executive Directors and Key Management Personnel are that they may be terminated without cause by the employer giving 
12 months’ notice, or by employee giving six months’ notice, with payments in lieu of notice calculated by reference to tFR/annual base salary, except where 
indicated otherwise. 

•  Executives remunerated on a Base Salary approach receive pension contributions of 15% of Base Salary.
•  Standard service contracts require that any termination payments made would be reduced by any value to be received under any new employment.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

39

dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - rEmunEratiOn rEpOrt – CONTINUED

total remuneration and benefits for the year

5.3  
the following table shows details of the total remuneration and benefits provided to the executive Directors and the Disclosable executives 
for the Year, together with prior year comparatives. the tFR amounts shown for the Australian-based executives and denoted by*, are those to 
which they were entitled for the Year, and which they elected to receive in a combination of one or more of the following elements: cash salary 
payments; pension contributions; and motor vehicle benefits.

sHort term employee Benefits

post 
employment 
Benefits

otHer

sHare Based payment

name

year

CasH Bonus
us$'000

CasH/ 
salary/  
tfr/fees
us$'000

non-
monetary 
Benefits8
us$'000

super-
annuation
us$'000

termination/ 
siGn-on 
payments/ 
retirement 
Benefits
us$'000

otHer
us$'000

total  
Before 
equity
us$'000

options/ 
awards7
us$'000

as %  
of total

total
us$'000

executive directors

M F Ihlein* 

M e Doherty* 

totals 

20099 

2008 

20099 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2,006 

2,070 

973 

693 

2,979 

2,763 

Current Key management personnel

t J Gorman 

J R A Judd 

e e potts 

K J Shuba 

n p Smith 

2009  

2008 

2009 9 

2008 

2009  

2008 

2009  

2008 

2009 9 

2008 

C A van der laan*   2009 9 

2008 

former other senior executive

770 

323 

701 

728 

497 

447 

554 

448 

461 

340 

945 

938 

– 

669 

– 

228 

– 

897 

94 

118 

41 

360 

53 

93 

– 

177 

54 

119 

76 

934 

C M norin10 

totals 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

294 

– 

4,222 

3,224 

9 

– 

327 

1,801 

38 

55 

21 

17 

59 

72 

19 

3 

5 

29 

– 

159 

4 

9 

– 

– 

3 

4 

104 

– 

135 

204 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

80 

48 

55 

64 

80 

43 

71 

57 

62 

45 

– 

– 

49 

– 

397 

257 

– 

– 

– 

174 

– 

174 

– 

400 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

631 

– 

631 

400 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

21 

– 

– 

– 

18 

13 

19 

17 

– 

– 

– 

– 

6 

– 

64 

30 

2,044 

2,794 

994 

1,112 

3,038 

3,906 

984 

892 

802 

1,181 

648 

755 

648 

708 

577 

504 

1,024 

1,876 

1,093 

– 

5,776 

5,916 

1,543 

1,255 

323 

28 

1,866 

1,283 

293 

25 

354 

322 

407 

320 

373 

269 

106 

– 

999 

835 

43% 

31% 

25% 

2% 

– 

– 

23% 

3% 

31% 

21% 

39% 

30% 

37% 

28% 

15% 

– 

49% 

31% 

3,587

4,049

1,317

1,140

4,904

5,189

1,277

917

1,156

1,503

1,055

1,075

1,021

977

683

504

2,023

2,711

497 

– 

3,029 

1,771 

31% 

1,590

– 

– 

– 

–

8,805

7,687

Bonuses and equity based awards 

5.4  
the following table shows the StI cash award expected to be paid to the executive Directors and the Disclosable executives shortly in respect 
of performance during the Year, expressed as a percentage of the amount which would have been paid, had all of their KpIs been achieved at 
Maximum (with the balance being forfeited). the percentages have been calculated relative to the amount which can be paid if the maximum 
targets are met.

the table also shows details of equity based awards made to the Disclosable executives during the Year, being rights to Brambles shares 
under the 2006 Share plan. All the awards shown were made on 27 August 2008, relating to performance in the financial year ending 30 June 
2008, have a vesting date of 27 August 2011 and an expiry date of 27 August 201441. the estimated maximum and minimum possible total future 
value of these awards is also detailed11. For continuing employees none of the equity awards shown will vest or be forfeited until calendar year 
2010, when performance against the relevant conditions can be determined. StI share awards vest on the third anniversary of their date of 
grant, subject to continuing employment. ltI Awards vest on the third anniversary of their date of grant, subject to continuing employment with 
50% of the award subject to a tSR performance condition and 50% subject to a sales revenue and BvA performance condition.

40

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

  
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
name

type of award

executive directors 

M F Ihlein 

 StI Cash Award 

 StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

M e Doherty 

StI Cash Award 

StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

Current Key management personnel

t J Gorman 

J R A Judd 

e e potts 

K J Shuba 

n p Smith 

StI Cash Award 

 StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

StI Cash Award 

StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

StI Cash Award 

StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

StI Cash Award 

StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

StI Cash Award 

StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

C A van der laan 

StI Cash Award 

StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

former other senior executive

C M norin 

StI Cash Award 

StI Share Award 

ltI Award 

total  

equity Based awards

equity Based and  
sti CasH awards

 numBer 

value at 
Grant 
us$'00012

minimum 
future  
value of 
awards yet 
to vest 
us$'00013 

maximum 
future  
value of 
awards yet 
to vest 
us$'00012

% CasH paid/
equity 
vested

% CasH/
equity 
forfeited

 –  

102,538 

358,546 

461,084 

 –  

59,928 

157,968 

217,896 

 –  

57,018 

126,060 

183,078 

 –  

27,538 

65,958 

93,496 

 –  

15,119 

75,554 

90,673 

 –  

28,529 

105,050 

133,579 

– 

27,887 

69,284 

97,171 

– 

59,996 

128,348 

188,344 

– 

30,667 

47,514 

78,181 

– 

501 

1,429 

1,930 

– 

293 

630 

 923 

– 

278 

503 

781 

– 

134 

263 

397 

– 

74 

301 

375 

– 

139 

419 

558 

– 

136 

276 

412 

– 

293 

512 

805 

– 

150 

189 

339 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

501 

1,429 

1,930 

– 

293 

630 

923 

– 

278 

503 

781 

– 

134 

263 

397 

– 

74 

301 

375 

– 

139 

419 

558 

– 

136 

276 

412 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

100%

–

–

–

100%

–

–

–

17% 

83%

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

15% 

85%

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

13% 

87%

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

100%

–

–

–

17% 

83%

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–  

15% 

85%

293 

512 

805 

–  

150  

189  

339  

– 

– 

– 

5% 

100% 

– 14 

– 

–

–

–

95%

–

79%

–

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

41

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - rEmunEratiOn rEpOrt – CONTINUED

BalanCe at 
start of  
tHe year

numBer

646,470 

602,526 

– 

– 

28,406 

– 

– 

36,365 

– 

69,654 

142,669 

– 

 45,000 

 166,236 

– 

27,780 

104,010 

 140,509 

– 

– 

– 

– 

130,862 

371,060  

– 

 164,292 

– 

Granted durinG  

exerCised durinG  

tHe year

tHe year

lapsed durinG  

tHe year

CHanGes 

total value 

BalanCe at 

amount paid 

durinG tHe 

of Granted, 

end of tHe 

on exerCise 

vested 

vested and 

durinG 

exerCisaBle 

year

exerCised 

and lapsed 

us$'000

year47

us$’00015

tHe year

at end of 

tHe year

 numBer17

value at 

Grant 

us$’00012

value at 

exerCise 

us$’000

value at 

lapse 

us$’00018

numBer

numBer

numBer

numBer

numBer

numBer

461,084 

1,930 

136,762 

802 

117,406 

684 

2,048  

809,442 

802  

136,762 

– 

137,054 

– 

783,524 

183,078 

781 

781 

219,443 

93,496 

397 

30,785 

156 

 28,085 

389 

177,295 

156 

30,785 

90,673 

375 

25,436 

129 

21,620 

126 

378 

209,853 

129 

25,436 

217,896 

923 

– 

292 

– 

151 

– 

245 

– 

151 

– 

253 

– 

– 

253 

– 

292 

– 

– 

1 

–  

1 

– 

1 

– 

1 

– 

1 

– 

– 

1 

– 

1 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

–  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

 – 

164 

(19,064) 

10,151 

245 

5,689 

253  

292 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(115,862) 

115  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 –  

– 

– 

– 

450 

–  

292 

10,151 

923 

246,302 

151 

245 

245 

50,590 

151 

50,689 

253 

28,033 

104,010  

253 

292 

292 

15,000 

1 

– 

1 

– 

1 

– 

1 

– 

1 

– 

– 

1 

– 

1 

– 

– 

98 

–22  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

188,344 

805 

64,490 

376  

 52,252 

304 

877 

442,662 

376 

64,490 

– 

78,181 

– 

339 

35,826 

209  

90,324 

115  

116,323  

– 

209 

94,311 

58,485

70 

–22 

70 

– 22 

–  

–22 

70  

133,579 

558 

23,746 

139 

20,184 

118 

579 

230,158 

139 

23,746 

21,198 

104,010 

97,171 

412 

412  

97,171 

shareholdings and interests in options/share rights
5.5  
the table below shows details of Brambles shares in which the 
Disclosable executives held relevant interests in relation to:
 —

ordinary shares, being issued shares held by them and their 
related parties;
options, being awards made under the 2001 option plans;
share rights, being awards made before 30 June 2004 under 
the 2001 Share plans, awards made on 21 october 2005 under 
the 2004 Share plans, and awards made on 19 January 2007, 
29 August 2007 and 27 August 2008 under the 2006 Share plan;
matching conditional rights, being awards made during the Year 
under MyShare.

 —
 —

 —

name

HoldinGs16 

executive directors

M F Ihlein 

 ordinary shares20 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  
conditional rights 

over the five year period commencing from the date of employment 
with Brambles, the Chief executive officer must, as a minimum, 
achieve and maintain a shareholding equal to 150% of tFR before 
tax. other members of the executive leadership team must, as a 
minimum, achieve and maintain a shareholding equal to 75% of tFR 
or 100% of base salary before tax.

M e Doherty 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  
conditional rights 

Current Key management personnel

t J Gorman 

ordinary shares 

J R A Judd 

e e potts 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  
conditional rights 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  
conditional rights 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  
conditional rights 

K J Shuba19 

ordinary shares 

n p Smith 

options 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  
conditional rights 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  
conditional rights 

C A van der laan 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

former senior executive

C M norin 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  
conditional rights 

42

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
name

HoldinGs16 

executive directors

M F Ihlein 

M e Doherty 

ordinary shares 

Current Key management personnel

t J Gorman 

ordinary shares 

 ordinary shares20 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  

conditional rights 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  

conditional rights 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  

conditional rights 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  

conditional rights 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  

conditional rights 

options 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  

conditional rights 

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  

conditional rights 

Share rights  

ordinary shares 

Share rights  

MyShare matching  

conditional rights 

J R A Judd 

e e potts 

n p Smith 

K J Shuba19 

ordinary shares 

C A van der laan 

ordinary shares 

former senior executive

C M norin 

BalanCe at 

start of  

tHe year

numBer

646,470 

602,526 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

69,654 

142,669 

 45,000 

 166,236 

27,780 

104,010 

 140,509 

130,862 

371,060  

 164,292 

Granted durinG  
tHe year

exerCised durinG  
tHe year

lapsed durinG  
tHe year

 numBer17

value at 
Grant 
us$’00012

numBer

value at 
exerCise 
us$’000

numBer

value at 
lapse 
us$’00018

CHanGes 
durinG tHe 
year

total value 
of Granted, 
exerCised 
and lapsed 
us$'000

BalanCe at 
end of tHe 
year47

amount paid 
on exerCise 
us$’00015

vested 
durinG 
tHe year

vested and 
exerCisaBle 
at end of 
tHe year

numBer

numBer

numBer

numBer

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

137,054 

– 

783,524 

– 

– 

461,084 

1,930 

136,762 

802 

117,406 

684 

28,406 

217,896 

923 

292 

– 

1 

–  

151 

– 

1 

– 

36,365 

183,078 

781 

245 

– 

1 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

93,496 

397 

30,785 

156 

 28,085 

151 

– 

1 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

 – 

164 

– 

– 

90,673 

375 

25,436 

129 

21,620 

126 

253 

– 

– 

1 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

133,579 

558 

23,746 

139 

20,184 

118 

253 

– 

1 

– 

97,171 

412 

292 

– 

1 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 – 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

 –  

– 

– 

– 

– 

10,151 

– 

– 

245 

– 

– 

(19,064) 

–  

– 

5,689 

– 

– 

253  

– 

– 

– 

292 

– 

– 

(115,862) 

2,048  

809,442 

802  

136,762 

1 

– 

292 

10,151 

923 

246,302 

1 

– 

151 

245 

781 

219,443 

1 

– 

245 

50,590 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

389 

177,295 

156 

30,785 

1 

– 

151 

50,689 

– 

– 

– 

– 

378 

209,853 

129 

25,436 

1 

– 

– 

253 

28,033 

104,010  

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1 

– 

253 

292 

412  

97,171 

1 

– 

292 

15,000 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

188,344 

805 

64,490 

376  

 52,252 

304 

– 

877 

442,662 

376 

64,490 

579 

230,158 

139 

23,746 

21,198 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

104,010 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

78,181 

– 

339 

– 

–  

– 

35,826 

209  

90,324 

– 

450 

70 

–22 

70 

– 22 

– 

–  

115  

– 

– 

– 

98 

–22  

115  

116,323  

– 

209 

– 

94,311 

58,485

–  

–22 

70  

–

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

43

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - rEmunEratiOn rEpOrt – CONTINUED

6. 

non-exeCutive direCtors’ disClosures

non-executive directors’ remuneration policy

6.1  
non-executive Directors’ fees are determined by the executive 
Directors, with the non-executive Directors taking no part in the 
discussion or decision relating to their fees. In setting the fees, advice is 
sought from external remuneration consultants on the appropriate level 
of fees, taking into account the responsibilities of Directors in dealing 
with the complexity and global nature of Brambles’ affairs and the level 
of fees paid to non-executive directors in comparable companies.

the following table sets out the current annual fees payable to each 
of the non-executive Directors. the fee supplement is only payable 
to a Committee Chairman who is not also the Board Chairman.

Chairman

other non-executive Directors

Fee supplement for Audit 
Committee Chairman

Fee supplement for other 
Committee Chairmen

uS$489,000

uS$117,000

uS$30,000

uS$20,000

the maximum permissible annual fees for Directors of Brambles 
(other than executive Directors) is currently uS$2,300,000. this 
amount includes any remuneration paid to those Directors by 
Brambles or by any of its subsidiaries for their services.

the base fees for non-executive Directors have not been increased 
since 1 January 2006. there will not be an increase in non-executive 
Director fees in FY10.

non-executive directors’ appointment letters

6.2  
Directors are appointed for an unspecified term but are subject to 
election by shareholders at the first Annual General Meeting after 
their initial appointment by the Board. under Brambles limited’s 
constitution, no member of the Board may serve for more than 
three years from the date of appointment without being re-elected 
by shareholders. Re-appointment is not automatic. the Board reviews 
whether retiring Directors should stand for re-election, having regard 
to their performance and the contribution of their individual skills and 
experience to the desired overall composition of the Board. 

letters of appointment for the non-executive Directors, which are 
contracts for service but not contracts of employment, have been put 
in place. these letters confirm that the non-executive Directors have 
no right to compensation on the termination of their appointment for 
any reason, other than for unpaid fees and expenses for the period 
actually served.

the non-executive Directors do not participate in Brambles’ short or 
long term incentive plans. now that all remaining retirement benefits 
have been paid out, the non-executive Directors do not receive any 
benefits in kind.

Details of the years in which the non-executive Directors are next 
due for re-election by shareholders are shown in the Corporate 
Governance Statement in section 2.

 non-executive directors’ remuneration for the year

6.3  
the fees and other benefits provided to non-executive Directors during 
the Year and during the prior year are set out in the table below24.

Any contributions to personal superannuation or pension funds on 
behalf of the non-executive Directors are deducted from their overall 
fee entitlements.

name

Current non–executive directors 

A G Froggatt 

D p Gosnell 

S p Johns 

S C H Kay 

G J Kraehe Ao 

C l Mayhew 

B M Schwartz AM 10 

totals 

44

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

sHort term 
employee 
Benefits

post 
employment 
Benefits

year

direCtors’ 
fees
us$'000

super-
annuation
us$'000

otHer23
us$'000

total
us$'000

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

108 

113 

113 

114 

136 

137 

108 

109 

471 

282 

133 

134 

33 

– 

1,102 

889 

10 

5 

4 

4 

12 

12 

10 

10 

21 

25 

5 

5 

3 

– 

65 

61 

– 

– 

22 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

4 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

118

118

139

118

148

149

118

119

496

307

138

139

36

–

26 

– 

1,193

950

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
non-executive directors’ shareholdings

6.4  
non-executive Directors are expected to hold shares in Brambles 
equal to their annual fees after tax within three years of their 
appointment.

the following table contains details of Brambles limited shares in 
which the non-executive Directors held relevant interests, being 
issued shares held by them and their related parties. the non-
executive Directors do not participate in Brambles’ equity based 
incentive schemes. 

ordinary sHares

BalanCe at tHe 
start of tHe year

CHanGes durinG 
tHe year

BalanCe at tHe  
end of tHe year

non-executive directors

A G Froggatt25

D p Gosnell26

S p Johns27

S C H Kay28

G J Kraehe Ao29

C l Mayhew30

14,890 

14,450 

47,500 

10,400 

41,561 

16,500 

– 

– 

– 

3,000 

20,000 

– 

B M Schwartz AM31

– 

10,000 

14,890 

14,450 

47,500 

13,400 

61,561 

16,500 

10,000 

7. 

appendiCes

Basis of valuation of equity based awards

7.1  
unless otherwise specified, the fair value of the options and share 
rights included in the tables in this report, has been estimated using a 
pricing model independently developed by ernst & Young transaction 
Advisory Services limited on behalf of Brambles.

the following assumptions have been used in the valuation of awards 
made during the Year. Awards of share rights have been valued at their 
date of grant.

date of Grant

volatility

risK free  
interest rate

dividend yield

27 August 2008

27 August 2008

1 June 200932

MyShare 200933

33%

33%

33%

33%

5.53%

3.56%

5.60%

5.50%

3.90%

3.80%

3.50%

3.50%

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

45

dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - rEmunEratiOn rEpOrt – CONTINUED

summary of 2001, 2004 and 2006 plans

7.2  
the table below contains details of the 2001 Share plans, the 2001 option plans, the 2004 Share plans and the 2006 Share plan under which the 
executive Directors and the Disclosable executives have unvested and/or unexercised awards which could affect remuneration in this or future 
reporting periods.

plan

nature of award

siZe of award

vestinG Condition

vestinG sCHedule 

2001 option 
plans

Share Rights

% of salary/tFR

Share Rights

% of salary/tFR

Share Rights

% of salary/tFR

2001 Share 
plans

2004 & 2006 
Share plans 
(tSR ltI)

Share Rights

Share Rights

2004 & 2006 
Share plans 
(StI)

2004 & 2006 
Share plans 
(enhanced StI)

up to 100% of 
size of StI cash 
award

up to 50% of size 
of StI share 
award

2006 Share 
plan (BvA ltI)

Share Rights

% of salary/tFR

Share Rights

% of salary/tFR

2006 Share 
plan (tSR ltI) 
as amended at 
the 2008 AGM

time and relative 
tSR hurdle 
(between 50th 
and 25th out of 
100).

time and epS 
CAGR hurdle 
(between 7% 
and 15% p.a.).

time and relative 
tSR hurdle 
(between 50th 
and 25th out 
of 100).

time only.

time and relative 
tSR hurdle 
(between 37th 
and 25th out of 
100).

time and sales 
revenue growth 
and BvA 
performance.

time and relative 
tSR Hurdle 
(outperformance 
of the median 
company and 
outperformance 
of the median 
by 25%).

38% vesting if tSR in ranked 50th 
out of 100 companies. 100% vesting 
if ranked 25th or better.

25% vesting if epS CAGR is 7% p.a. 
100% vesting if epS CAGR is 15% 
p.a.

30% vesting if tSR is ranked 50th 
out of 100 companies. 100% vesting 
if 25th or better.

performanCe/
vestinG period

life of award

three years, 
with retests 
after four and 
five years.

three years, 
with retests 
after four and 
five years.

three years.

Maximum of 
six years.

Maximum of 
six years.

Maximum of 
six years.

100% vesting based on continuous 
employment.

three years.

Maximum of 
six years.

4% vesting if tSR is ranked 37th out 
of 100 companies. 100% vesting if 
25th or better.

three years.

Maximum of 
six years.

three years.

Maximum of 
six years.

three years.

Maximum of 
six years.

20% vesting occurs if CAGR is 7% 
and BvA is uS$2,000m over three 
year period. 100% vesting occurs if 
CAGR is 11% and BvA is uS$2,200m 
over three year period35.

40% vesting if tSR is better than 
the median ranking company. 100% 
vesting if outperformance of the 
median ranked company by 25% 
(absolute percentage) over a three 
year period.

MyShare

Matching 
Conditional 
Share Rights

1:1 match for 
every acquired 
share purchased

time and 
retention of 
acquired share.

n/A

two years from 
first acquisition.

Automatic 
exercise on 
second 
anniversary of 
first acquisition.

the 2004 Share plans operate in the same way as the 2006 Share plan described in section 4.2 although, under the 2004 Share plans, relative 
tSR performance is measured relative to the S&p/ASx50 and the FtSe 100.

46

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

options and share rights 

7.3  
the terms and conditions of each grant of options and share rights affecting remuneration in this or future reporting periods are outlined in the 
table below. options and share rights granted under the plans carry no dividends or voting rights36:

plans under wHiCH 
awards made

plan
numBer

Grant date

expiry date

exerCise priCe37

value at 
Grant37,38

status/vestinG date

2001 option plan

1)

4 March 2004

4 March 2010

A$5.31/£2.11

A$1.17/£.044 100% exercisable from 

2001 Share plans

2)

4 March 2004

4 March 2010

2004 Share plans

3)

 21 october 2005

22 october 201141

4 March 2007.

–

–

A$4.67/£1.85 100% exercisable from 

4 March 2007.

A$7.52/A$7.71 100% exercisable from 

21 october 2008.

2006 Share plans

MyShare

4)

5)

6)

7)

8)

9)

10)

11)

12)

13)

14)

15)

16)

17)

18)

19)

20)

21)

22)

 21 october 2005

22 october 201141

–

A$3.58/A$3.67 100% lapsed 

21 october 2008.

 21 october 2005

22 october 201141

–

A$4.19/A$4.30 39.52% exercisable from 

21 october 2008, remainder lapsed.

19 January 200739,40

31 August 201241

19 January 200742,40

31 August 201241

19 January 200743,40

31 August 201241

29 August 200739

30 August 201341

29 August 200742

30 August 201341

29 August 200743

30 August 201341

26 February 200839,44

2 December 2013

19 March 200839,45

2 March 201441

28 April 200839

29 April 2014

27 August 200839

27 August 201441

27 August 200843

27 August 201441

27 August 200846

27 August 201441

31 March 200934

1 April 2011

30 April 200934

1 April 2011

29 May 200934

1 April 2011

30 June 200934

1 April 2011

31 July 200934

1 April 2011

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

A$12.60 30 August 2009.

A$5.72 30 August 2009.

A$6.97 30 August 2009.

A$12.64 29 August 2010.

A$6.75

29 August 2010.

A$8.11 29 August 2010.

A$9.39 1 December 2010.

A$8.84 1 March 2011.

A$8.01 28 April 2011.

A$6.53 27 August 2011.

A$5.99

27 August 2011.

A$4.67

27 August 2011.

A$5.09 31 March 2011.

A$5.97 31 March 2011.

A$5.91 31 March 2011.

A$5.91 31 March 2011.

A$5.97 31 March 2011.

luke mayhew 
non-executive Director and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

20 August 2009

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

47

dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - rEmunEratiOn rEpOrt – CONTINUED

22. 

value at grant was uS$252.50. value at exercise was uS$296.86. total value 
granted and exercised was uS$549.36.

23. 

other refers to personal / spouse travel.

24. 

the total emoluments for all the Directors for the year ended 30 June 2009 
was uS$ 4.038 million (2008: uS$ 8.198 million). the aggregate minimum 
contributions of all Directors to complying superannuation funds to avoid 
incurring the superannuation guarantee levy under the Superannuation 
Guarantee (Administration) Act 1997 (Australia) was A$ 85,969 (2008: 
A$97,187). the total number of Directors who made such contributions was 
seven (2008: ten).

25. 

of which 7,000 shares were held by Christine Joanne Froggatt.

26. 

Held by Susan Gosnell.

27. 

of which 27,500 shares were held by Canzak pty limited and 20,000 shares 
were held by Caran pty limited.

28. 

of which 8,500 were held by the Sarah Carolyn Hailes Kay Superannuation 
Fund.

29. 

Held by Invia Custodians for Graham John Kraehe private Superannuation 
Fund.

30. 

Held by Worldwide nominees limited.

31. 

Held by the Schwartz Superannuation Fund.

32. 

the valuation for this tranche of grants was established at 24 november 
2008, being the date on which shareholder approval to the modified 
performance condition was obtained.

33. 

Awards made between 31 March 2009 and 29 February 2010

34. 

these Matching Conditional Rights granted under MyShare vest on 
31 March 2011 subject to continuing employment and retention of the 
associated Acquired Shares. on vesting they are automatically exercised.

35. 

Full vesting framework outlined at 4.2.2.

36. 

Awards granted under the 2001 plans and 2004 plans were formerly over 
both BIl and BIp Shares.

37. 

All values in A$ relate to awards originally made over BIl shares, and in £ to 
awards made over BIp shares.

38. 

these are the fair values calculated using the methodology set out in 
Section 7.1. Where two values in one currency are shown for awards on or 
after november 2004, the second related to rights awarded to elton potts 
and Kevin Shuba, which expire on the third, rather than the sixth anniversary 
of the grant.

39. 

StI share awards vest on the third anniversary of their grant date, subject 
to continuing employment.

40. 

Awards granted on 19 January 2007 were, for pricing and vesting purposes, 
taken to have been granted on 30 August 2006.

41. 

Awards granted to elton potts, tom Gorman and Kevin Shuba expire three 
years earlier than the date shown, or immediately after vesting, if earlier.

42. 

enhanced StI share awards vest on the third anniversary of their grant 
date, subject to continuing employment and meeting a tSR performance 
condition.

43. 

these ltI share awards vest on the third anniversary of their grant date, 
subject to continuing employment and meeting a tSR performance 
condition.

44. 

Awards granted on 26 February 2008 were, for pricing and vesting purposes, 
taken to have been granted on 1 December 2007.

45. 

Awards granted on 19 March 2008, were for pricing and vesting purposes, 
taken to have been granted on 1 March 2008.

46. 

these ltI Share Awards vest on the third anniversary of their grant date, 
subject to continuing employment and meeting a sales growth and BvA 
performance condition.

47. 

Since the end of the Year, on 31 July 2009 the following executive Directors 
and Key Management personnel acquired ordinary shares under MyShare 
and received the corresponding number of MyShare matching conditional 
rights: Mike Ihlein (70), tom Gorman (57), nick Smith (70), Kevin Shuba (54) 
and elton potts (54).

1. 

Financial targets set for the forthcoming financial year under Brambles’ 
incentive plans will not constitute profit forecasts and the Board is 
conscious that their publication may therefore be misleading. Accordingly 
Brambles does not publish in advance the coming year’s financial targets for 
incentive purposes. Brambles BvA performance for the Year is however, set 
out on page 15. 

2. 

the average of the ranking of BIl (or from the date of unification, the 
primary listing of Brambles) against the ASx100; and the ranking of BIp 
(or from the date of unification, the secondary listing of Brambles) against 
the FtSe 350.

3. 

the ranking of the primary listing of Brambles against the ASx100.

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

8. 

9. 

these performance share rights were granted under the 2006 Share plan. 
Rights under this plan vest on the third anniversary of their grant date, 
subject to meeting a relative tSR performance condition. If the performance 
condition is not met, the rights will lapse.

these performance share rights were granted under the 2006 Share plan, 
as amended in november 2008. Rights under this plan vest on the third 
anniversary of their grant date. 50% of the award made will vest subject to 
meeting a relative tSR performance condition. the balance of the award will 
vest subject to sales revenue growth and BvA performance, the complete 
vesting matrix for this component of the award is detailed at 4.2.2.

liz Doherty holds a Directorship with SABMiller plc and is permitted 
to retain the fees from that appointment, being £67,500 per year.

As part of the Brambles’ transition to AIFRS, only awards made on or after 
7 november 2002 have been included in the calculation of equity based 
remuneration.

non-monetary benefits include car parking, personal / spouse travel, club 
membership, motor vehicles and shipment and storage costs.

the year-on-year comparison of remuneration costs is affected by the 
movement of exchange rate from A$1 = uS$0.9040 for 2008 to A$1 = 
uS$0.7479 for 2009.

10. 

Brian Schwartz became a non-executive Director on 13 March 2009. this 
individual was not a Disclosable executive for 2008 and therefore no data 
was disclosed in respect of him.

11. 

Section 4.2.1 contains details of those awards which vested after 30 June 
2008 or 2009 based on Brambles’ performance to those dates.

12. 

the total value of the relevant equity award(s) valued as at the date of 
grant using the methodology set out in section 7.1.

13. 

Assumes performance and/or service conditions not met.

14. 

the remaining 21% will be retained for testing and will vest subject to the 
achievement of the relevant performance conditions on 27 August 2011.

15. 

there were no amounts payable but unpaid on the exercise of options during 
the Year.

16. 

of those awards detailed in Section 7.3; plan numbers 3-11, 15-17 are 
applicable to Mike Ihlein, and exercises occurred from plan numbers 3 and 5; 
plan numbers 12, 15-19 are applicable to liz Doherty; plan numbers 13, 
15-21 are applicable to tom Gorman; plan numbers 3-11, 15-19 are 
applicable to Jasper Judd, and exercised occurred from plan numbers 3 and 
5; plan numbers 3-11, 15-21 are applicable to elton potts, and exercises 
occurred from plan numbers 3 and 5; plan numbers 1-11, 15-21 are 
applicable to Kevin Shuba, and exercises occurred from plans numbers 3 and 
5; plan numbers 15-21 are applicable to nick Smith; plan numbers 3-11, 
15-17 are applicable to Craig van der laan, and exercises occurred from plan 
numbers 3 and 5; plan numbers 3-11, 15-18 are applicable for Mikael norin, 
and exercises occurred from plan numbers 3 and 5.

17. 

During the year 3,946,120 performance share rights were granted under the 
2006 Share plan of which 461,084 were granted to Mike Ihlein and 217,896 
were granted to liz Doherty. Approval for the issue of these securities was 
obtained under ASx listing Rule 10.14 at the AGM held on 25 november 2008.

18. 

“lapse” in this context means that the award was forfeited due to either the 
service condition performance condition not being met.

19. 

Kevin Shuba was the only Disclosable executive to hold options during 
the Year. 

20. 

of which 115,000 shares were held by uBS Wealth Management Australia 
pty limited for the Ihlein Family Superannuation Fund, 1,000 shares were 
held in the form of CDIs by Citibank and 292 shares were held by 
Computershare nominees CI ltd.

21. 

the opening and closing balance for Jasper Judd reported in the 2008 
Annual Report incorrectly included 79,100 options, these balances should 
have been zero.

48

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - OthEr inFOrmatiOn

direCtors
the name of each person who was a Director of Brambles limited 
at any time during, or since the end of the Year, and the period for 
which they served as a Director are set out below. the qualifications, 
experience and special responsibilities for Directors are set out on 
page 19. 

M e Doherty

A G Froggatt

D p Gosnell

M F Ihlein

S p Johns

S C H Kay

G J Kraehe Ao

C l Mayhew

1 July 2008 to date

1 July 2008 to date

1 July 2008 to date

1 July 2008 to date

1 July 2008 to date

1 July 2008 to date

1 July 2008 to date

1 July 2008 to date

B M Schwartz AM

13 March 2009 to date

seCretary
Details of the qualifications and the experience of the Company 
Secretary of Brambles limited are as follows: Robert Gerrard joined 
Brambles in 2003 as Senior Counsel and was appointed Group 
Company Secretary in February 2008. prior to joining Brambles, he 
was General Counsel to, and Company Secretary of, Roc oil Company 
limited; Group legal Manager, Cairn energy plc; General Counsel 
to, and Company Secretary of, Command petroleum limited; and a 
solicitor with Allen Allen & Hemsley. He holds a Masters of law (llM) 
from the university of Sydney and Bachelor of Science (BSc) and 
Bachelor of law (llB) degrees from the university of new South 
Wales. He is a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of new South Wales.

the information presented in this Report relates to the consolidated 
entity, the Brambles Group, consisting of Brambles limited and 
the entities it controlled at the end of, or during the year ended 
30 June 2009 (Year).

prinCipal aCtivity
the principal activity of the Group during the Year was the provision 
of supply chain and information management solutions, in which it 
is a leading global provider. there were no significant changes in the 
nature of the Group’s principal activity during the Year.

review of operations and results 
A review of the Group’s operations, a review of the results of those 
operations and details of any significant changes in its state of affairs 
during the Year, are given in the operational and Financial Review on 
pages 10 to 17.

Information about the financial position of the Group is included in 
the operational and Financial Review on pages 10 to 17 and in 
the performance Summary on pages 2 to 3.

matters sinCe tHe end of tHe finanCial year
the Directors are not aware of any matter or circumstance that has 
arisen since 30 June 2009 that has significantly affected or may 
significantly affect the operations of the Group, the results of those 
operations or the state of affairs of the Group in future financial 
years, except as may be stated elsewhere in the Chairman and 
Ceo's Report on page 1 and the operational and Financial Review 
on pages 10 to 17.

Business strateGies and prospeCts for future 
finanCial years
the business strategies and prospects for future financial years, 
together with likely developments in the operations of the Group in 
future financial years and the expected results of those operations 
known at the date of this Report, are set out in the Chairman and 
Ceo's Report on page 1, the Strategy Matrix on pages 6 to 7 and 
the operational and Financial Review on pages 10 to 17. Further 
information in relation to such matters has not been included 
because the Directors believe it would be likely to result in 
unreasonable prejudice to the Group.

dividends
the Directors have declared a final dividend of 12.5 Australian cents 
per share, which will be 20% franked. the dividend will be paid on 
thursday, 8 october 2009 to shareholders on the register on Friday, 
18 September 2009. on 9 April 2009, an interim dividend was paid, 
which was 17.5 Australian cents per share and 10% franked. on 
9 october 2008, a final dividend for the year ended 30 June 2008 
was paid, which was 17.5 Australian cents per share and 10% franked. 
the unfranked component of each dividend paid during the Year was 
conduit foreign income.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

49

dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - OthEr inFOrmatiOn – CONTINUED

direCtors’ meetinGs
Details of the general frequency of Board meetings and membership of Board committees are given in the Corporate Governance Statement 
on pages 22 to 34. the following table shows the actual Board and committee meetings held during the Year and the number attended by each 
Director or committee member. 

direCtors

Board meetinGs

reGular

speCial Committees

audit Committee 
meetinGs

remuneration Committee 
meetinGs

nominations Committee 
meetinGs

M e Doherty(c) 

A G Froggatt(d) 

D p Gosnell 

M F Ihlein 

S p Johns 

S C H Kay 

G J Kraehe Ao 

C l Mayhew 

B M Schwartz AM(e) 

(a)

12 

12 

12 

12 

12 

12 

12 

12 

4 

(b)

10 

11 

12 

12 

12 

12 

12 

12 

4 

(a)

5 

1 

1 

5 

4 

1 

5 

1 

– 

(b)

5 

1 

1 

5 

4 

1 

5 

1 

– 

(a)

– 

– 

7 

– 

7 

7 

– 

– 

– 

(b)

– 

– 

7 

– 

7 

7 

– 

– 

– 

(a)

– 

6 

– 

– 

– 

– 

6 

6 

– 

(b)

– 

6 

– 

– 

– 

– 

6 

6 

– 

(a)

(b)

– 

5 

– 

– 

5 

– 

5 

– 

– 

–

5

–

–

5

–

5

–

–

(a)  this column refers to the number of meetings held while the Director was a member of the Board or relevant committee which the Director was eligible to attend.
(b)   this column refers to the number of meetings attended during the period the Director was a member of the Board or relevant committee which the Director was 

eligible to attend.

(c)  liz Doherty missed two tele-conference Board meetings because she was travelling on Brambles business at the time those meetings were held.
(d)  tony Froggatt missed a tele-conference Board meeting.
(e)  Brian Schwartz was appointed as a Director with effect from 13 March 2009.

50

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
direCtors’ direCtorsHips of otHer listed Companies
the following lists the directorships held by the Directors in listed companies (other than Brambles limited) since 30 June 2006 and the period 
for which each directorship has been held.

direCtor

listed Company

period direCtorsHip Held

M e Doherty

SABMiller plc

A G Froggatt

AxA Asia pacific Holdings limited

Billabong International limited

Brambles Industries limited

Brambles Industries plc

Scottish & newcastle plc

D p Gosnell

Brambles Industries limited

Brambles Industries plc

M F Ihlein

Brambles Industries limited

Brambles Industries plc

S p Johns

Brambles Industries limited

Brambles Industries plc

Spark Infrastructure Group

Westfield Group:  
Westfield Holdings limited

Westfield America trust (director of responsible entity, Westfield America 
Management limited)

2006 to current

2008 to current

2008 to current

2006

2006

2003 to 2007

2006

2006

2004 to 2006

2004 to 2006

2004 to 2006

2004 to 2006

2005 to current

1985 to current

1996 to current

Westfield trust (director of responsible entity, Westfield Management limited)

1985 to current

S C H Kay

Brambles Industries limited

Brambles Industries plc

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

Symbion Health limited

G J Kraehe Ao

Bluescope Steel limited

Brambles Industries limited

Brambles Industries plc

Djerriwarrh Investments limited

C l Mayhew

Brambles Industries limited

Brambles Industries plc

WH Smith plc

WH Smith Retail Holdings limited

B M Schwartz AM

Insurance Australia Group limited

Westfield Group:  
Westfield Holdings limited

Westfield America trust (director of responsible entity, Westfield America 
Management limited)

2006

2006

2003 to current

2001 to 2007

2002 to current

2005 to 2006

2005 to 2006

2002 to current

2005 to 2006

2005 to 2006

2006 to current

2005 to 2006

2005 to current

2009 to current

2009 to current

Westfield trust (director of responsible entity, Westfield Management limited)

2009 to current

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

51

 
 
dirECtOrs’ rEpOrt - OthEr inFOrmatiOn – CONTINUED

interests in seCurities
pages 42, 43 and 45 of the Remuneration Report include details of 
the relevant interests of Directors in shares and other securities 
of Brambles limited.

indemnities
Indemnities provided to Directors and officers in accordance with 
the constitution of Brambles limited are detailed in note 36 on 
page 125. Insurance policies are in place to cover Directors and 
executive officers, however, the terms of the policies prohibit 
disclosure of the details of the insurance cover and the premiums paid. 

environment, employees and researCH and 
development
Brambles’ environmental policy is set by the Board. It applies in all 
countries where Brambles operates and provides that Brambles will 
act with integrity and respect for the community and the environment, 
be committed to sound environmental practice in its daily operations, 
that it is a minimum requirement that all Brambles operations 
comply with all relevant environmental laws and regulations, that 
all employees care for the environment by adopting a specified set 
of environmental principles, that every business unit must ensure 
that those principles are adhered to and that each business unit 
should set environmental performance targets, monitor progress 
and report results.

Regular environmental audits are conducted to evaluate compliance 
with applicable laws and regulations and implementation of the 
environmental policy. A copy of the complete environmental policy 
is set out in Brambles’ Code of Conduct, which is available at 
www.brambles.com.

the Board is responsible for setting Brambles’ Health and Safety 
policy, which states that Brambles is to provide and maintain a healthy 
and safe working environment and to prevent injury, illness or 
impairment to the health of employees, contractors, customers 
or the public.

Brambles is committed to achieving Zero Harm, meaning no injuries 
and no environmental damage. the Zero Harm Charter, which sets 
out the vision, values and behaviours and commitment required to 
work safely and ensure environmental compliance, is provided to all 
employees and, together with the complete Health and Safety policy, 
is on the Brambles website at www.brambles.com.

the Group presidents of CHep and the Group president and Chief 
operating officer of Recall are responsible for policy implementation 
and safety performance.

Health and safety performance indicators measure compliance with 
corporate objectives and milestones, allow assessment of progress 
and comparison with industry benchmarks and provide incentives 
for improvement.

the principal safety performance measures are lost time Injury 
Frequency Rate (ltIFR) and lost time Injury Severity Rate (ltISR). 
ltIFR measures the number of injuries that result in an employee 
being absent from work for one or more whole shifts per million work 
hours. ltISR measures the number of injury days lost per million 
work hours. From the 2010 year, Brambles will also adopt Brambles’ 
Injury Frequency Rate, or BIFR, which measures the combined 
number of fatalities, lost time injuries, modified duties and medical 
treatments per million hours worked.

52

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

Brambles employs over 12,000 people worldwide. Its employment 
policies commit Brambles to:
 —

providing a safe working environment with an objective of 
achieving Zero Harm through industry best practice in health 
and safety management;
being an equal opportunities employer, committed to developing 
a diverse workforce where everyone is treated fairly irrespective 
of gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, race or religion;
creating an environment where everyone is encouraged to give 
their best and realise their full potential, by providing learning 
and development opportunities for individuals and groups; and
ensuring employees can discuss any problem connected with their 
work confident that they will receive a fair, impartial and 
confidential review of the issue. 

 —

 —

 —

Brambles conducts an annual employee survey to gather data about 
employee perceptions of their workplace. the data is used to track 
progress from previous surveys, measure Brambles against internal 
and external best practice and identify key actions for improvement.

Brambles carries out research and development activities in relation 
to both its CHep and Recall businesses. these activities comprise 
continuously testing its pallets and containers to make them more 
durable and safer for use in the supply chain, designing and improving 
pallet and container repair equipment, development of radio frequency 
identification, development of document management processes and 
developing and improving software.

environmental reGulation
except as set out below, the operations of the Group in Australia are 
not subject to any particular and significant environmental regulation 
under a law of the Commonwealth or a State or territory. the 
operations of the Group in Australia involve the use or development 
of land, the use of transportation equipment and the transport of 
goods. these operations may be subject to State, territory or local 
government environmental and town planning regulations, or require 
a licence, consent or approval from Commonwealth, State or territory 
regulatory bodies. there were no material breaches of environmental 
statutory requirements and no material prosecutions during the Year.

Brambles’ businesses comply with all relevant environmental laws 
and regulations and none were involved in any material environmental 
prosecutions during the Year.

sHare Capital, options and sHare riGHts
Details of the changes in the issued share capital of Brambles limited 
and options, share rights and MyShare matching conditional rights 
outstanding over Brambles limited ordinary shares at the year end are 
given in notes 27 and 28 on pages 98 to 102. no options, share rights 
or MyShare matching conditional rights over the shares of Brambles 
limited’s controlled entities were granted during or since the end of 
the Year to the date of this Report. Since the year end to the date of 
this Report, the following grants, exercises and forfeits in options, 
performance share rights and MyShare matching conditional rights 
have taken place, broken down by reference to the plan numbers 
shown on page 47 of the Remuneration Report:
 —
 —

89,408 grants under plan 22;
74,722 exercises, resulting in the issue of fully paid ordinary 
shares: 6,926 under plan 3; 11,423 under plan 4; 14,682 under 
plan 6; 19,777 under plan 9; 10,440 under plan 15. Additionally, 
5,894 share rights were exercised under the 2001 Share plans 
(exercise price A$0.00, expiry date 10 September 2009) and 5,580 

auditors’ independenCe deClaration
A copy of the auditors’ independence declaration as required under 
section 307C of the Act is set out on page 129.

annual General meetinG
the AGM will be held at 2.00pm (AeDt) on 19 november 2009 at 
the Savoy Ballroom, Grand Hyatt Melbourne, 123 Collins Street, 
Melbourne, vIC 3000.

this Directors’ Report is made in accordance with a resolution of 
the Board.

G J Kraehe ao 
Chairman

m f ihlein 
Chief executive officer

20 August 2009

 —

share options were exercised under the 2001 option plans 
(exercise price A$4.75, expiry date 10 September 2009); and
1,188,354 lapses: 6,753 under plan 6; 307,030 under plan 7; 
787,025 under plan 8; 6,272 under plan 9; 5,685 under plan 10; 
15,788 under plan 11; 6,888 under plan 15; 25,688 under plan 16; 
25,688 under plan 17; 396 under plan 18; 323 under plan 19; 316 
under plan 20; 322 under plan 21; and 180 under plan 22.

sHare Buy-BaCKs
no ordinary shares were bought-back and cancelled during the Year. 
there is no current on-market buy-back in operation.

prinCipal risKs and unCertainties
the principal risks and uncertainties facing Brambles are described 
in section 7.2 of the Corporate Governance Statement on pages 29 
and 30. 

responsiBility statement
For the purposes of compliance with the uK Disclosure and 
transparency Rules, the Directors confirm that to the best of their 
knowledge, the management report (which comprises the Directors’ 
Report – other Information and the other sections of the Annual 
Report referred to in it) includes a fair review of the development and 
performance of the business and the position of Brambles, together 
with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that it faces.

non-audit serviCes
the amount of uS$110,000 was paid or is payable to 
pricewaterhouseCoopers, the Group’s auditors, for non-audit services 
provided during the Year by them (or another person or firm on their 
behalf). these services primarily related to tax advice. the Audit 
Committee has reviewed the provision of non-audit services by 
pricewaterhouseCoopers and its related practices and provided the 
Directors with formal written advice of a resolution passed by the Audit 
Committee. Consistent with this advice, the Directors are satisfied that 
the provision of non-audit services by pricewaterhouseCoopers and 
its related practices did not compromise the auditor independence 
requirements of the Act for the following reasons: the nature of the 
non-audit services provided during the Year; the quantum of non-audit 
fees compared to overall audit fees; and the pre-approval, monitoring 
and ongoing review requirements under the Audit Committee Charter 
and the Charter of Audit Independence in relation to non-audit work.

the auditors have also provided the Audit Committee with a letter 
confirming that, in their professional judgement, as at 7 August 2009, 
they have maintained their independence in accordance with their 
firm’s requirements, with the provisions of ApeS 110 – Code of ethics 
for professional Accountants, the applicable provisions of the Act, and 
other professional and regulatory requirements in Australia. on the 
same basis, they also confirm that the objectivity of the audit 
engagement partners and the audit staff is not impaired.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

53

sharEhOLdEr inFOrmatiOn

direCtors
G J Kraehe ao 
(non-executive Chairman)

m e doherty 
(Chief Financial officer)

a G froggatt 
(non-executive Director)

d p Gosnell 
(non-executive Director)

m f ihlein 
(Chief executive officer)

s p Johns 
(non-executive Director)

s C H Kay 
(non-executive Director)

C l mayhew 
(non-executive Director)

B m schwartz am 
(non-executive Director)

Company seCretary
r n Gerrard

reGistered offiCe
Brambles limited 
level 40, Gateway 
1 Macquarie place 
Sydney nSW 2000 
Australia 
ACn 118 896 021

telephone:  61 (0) 2 9256 5222 
61 (0) 2 9256 5299 
Facsimile: 
www.brambles.com
Website: 

stoCK exCHanGe listinGs
Brambles’ ordinary shares have a primary listing on the Australian 
Securities exchange and a secondary listing (where ordinary shares 
traded are settled via CDIs) on the london Stock exchange.

sHare reGistrars
online access to shareholding and CDI holding information is available 
to investors through the link Market Services and equiniti websites.

ordinary shareholders
link Market Services limited 
level 12, 680 George Street 
Sydney nSW 2000  
Australia

locked Bag A14 
Sydney South nSW 1235 
Australia

telephone:  1300 883 073 (freecall within Australia) 

61 (0) 2 8280 7143 (from outside Australia)

Facsimile: 
email: 
Website: 

61 (0) 2 9287 0303 
registrars@linkmarketservices.com.au 
www.linkmarketservices.com.au

Cdi holders
For CDI holders who use the equiniti (formerly lloyds tSB Registrars) 
corporate nominee service (including former BIp shareholders who 
held their shares in certificated form), contact:

equiniti Corporate nominees limited 
Aspect House, Spencer Road  
lancing Bn99 6DA 
united Kingdom

telephone:  0871 384 2030* (uK only) 

44 (0) 121 415 7047 (from outside the uK)

Facsimile: 

0871 384 2100* (uK only) 
44 (0) 1903 698 403 (from outside the uK) 

*Calls to this number will be charged at 8p per minute from a Bt landline. other 
telephony providers’ costs may vary.
Website: 

www.shareview.co.uk

For CDI holders who are CReSt participants (including former BIp 
shareholders who held their shares in dematerialised form through 
CReSt) contact:

euroclear uK & Ireland limited 
33 Cannon Street 
london eC4M 5SB 
united Kingdom

telephone:  08459 645 648 (uK only) 

Facsimile: 

Website: 

44 (0) 8459 645 648 (from outside the uK) 
020 7849 0134 (uK only) 
44 (0) 20 7849 0134 (from outside the uK) 
www.euroclear.co.uk

54

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
annual General meetinG
the Brambles limited 2009 AGM will be held at 2.00pm (AeDt) on 19 november 2009 at the Savoy Ballroom, Grand Hyatt Melbourne, 
123 Collins Street, Melbourne, vIC 3000.

finanCial Calendar

final dividend 2009
ex dividend date – Monday, 14 September 2009 
Record date – Friday, 18 September 2009 
payment date – thursday, 8 october 2009

2010 (provisional)
Announcement of interim results – mid February 
Interim dividend – mid April 
Announcement of final results – mid August 
Final dividend – mid october 
AGM – november

analysis of Holders of equity seCurities as at 20 auGust 2009

substantial shareholders
Brambles has been notified of the following substantial shareholding:

Holder

Commonwealth Bank of Australia and its subsidiaries 
(a) percentages are as disclosed in substantial holding notices given to Brambles limited.

number of ordinary shares on issue and distribution of holdings

1 – 1,000  

1,001 – 5,000  

5,001 – 10,000  

10,001 – 100,000  

100,001 and over  

total  

numBer of ordinary 
sHares

% of issued ordinary 
sHare Capital(a)

 180,184,910 

13.01

Holders

sHares

35,812 

37,059 

6,353 

3,692 

194 

  19,023,997

  89,025,374

  45,775,034

  78,839,617

1,169,279,253

83,110 

1,401,943,275

the number of members holding less than a marketable parcel of 70 ordinary shares (based on a market price of A$7.15 on 20 August 2009) 
is 2,102 and they hold a total of 96,839 ordinary shares. the voting rights of ordinary shares are described on page 56.

number of options/rights on issue and distribution of holdings

1 – 1,000  

1,001 – 5,000  

5,001 – 10,000  

10,001 – 100,000  

100,001 and over  

total  

Holders 

options/riGHts

1,522 

46 

61 

103 

12 

1,744 

228,657

170,666

413,491

3,767,548

  2,996,260

  7,576,622

the voting right of options, performance share rights and MyShare matching conditional rights are described on page 56.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

55

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
sharEhOLdEr inFOrmatiOn – CONTINUED

twenty largest ordinary shareholders

name

1  

2  

3  

4  

 HSBC Custody nominees (Australia) limited 

 J p Morgan nominees Australia limited  

 national nominees limited  

 Citicorp nominees pty limited  

5(a)  AnZ nominees limited (Cash Income A/C) 

6  

7  

8  

 Cogent nominees pty limited  

 Queensland Investment Corporation  

 Australian Reward Investment Alliance  

9   AMp life limited  

10    RBC Dexia Investor Services Australia nominees pty limited  

11    Citicorp nominees pty limited (CFS WSle 452 AuSt SHARe A/C) 

12    HSBC Custody nominees (Australia) limited-GSCo eCA  

13    Australian Foundation Investment Company limited  

14    RBC Dexia Investor Services Australia nominees pty limited (BKCuSt A/C) 

15    Warnford nominees pty limited (no 1 ACCount) 

16    Citicorp nominees pty limited (CFSIl CWltH AuSt SHS 1 A/C) 

17    Argo Investments limited  

18    Citicorp nominees pty limited (CWltH BAnK oFF SupeR A/C) 

19    Citicorp nominees pty limited (CFSIl CFSWS GeAR 452 Au A/C) 

20    perpetual trustee Company limited  

percentage of total holdings of 20 largest holders 

numBer of ordinary 
sHares

% of sHare Capital

  322,341,322 

  253,420,878 

  224,039,594 

  122,096,901 

  48,111,821 

   21,244,327 

   15,049,639 

   9,001,260 

   8,982,515 

   8,907,309 

  8,644,099 

   8,033,919 

   7,687,940 

7,445,281 

  5,106,547 

  4,694,000 

   4,252,106 

  3,858,492 

  3,633,000 

   3,472,685 

22.99% 

18.08% 

15.98%

8.71% 

3.43%

1.52% 

1.07%

0.64%

0.64%

0.64%

0.62%

0.57%

0.55%

0.53%

0.36%

0.33% 

0.30% 

0.28% 

0.26% 

0.25% 

1,090,023,635 

77.75% 

(a)  the AnZ nominees limited (Cash Income A/C) holding includes the nominee holding of ordinary shares underlying the CDIs which trade on the london Stock 

exchange.

voting rights: ordinary shares
Brambles limited’s constitution provides that each member entitled 
to attend and vote may do so in person or by proxy, by attorney or, 
where the member is a body corporate, by representative. the 
Directors may also determine that at any general meeting, a member 
who is entitled to attend and vote on a resolution at that meeting is 
entitled to a direct vote in relation to that resolution. the Directors 
have prescribed rules to govern direct voting which are available at 
www.brambles.com.

on a show of hands, every member present in person, by proxy, by 
attorney or, where the member is a body corporate, by representative 
and having the right to vote on a resolution has one vote. the Directors 
have determined that members who submit a direct vote will be 
excluded on a vote by a show of hands.

on a poll, every member present in person, by proxy, by attorney or, 
where the member is a body corporate, by representative and having 
the right to vote on the resolution has one vote for each ordinary share 
held. the Directors have determined that votes cast by members who 
submit a direct vote will be included on a vote by a poll, being one vote 
for each ordinary share held.

voting rights: options/rights
options over ordinary shares, performance share rights and MyShare 
matching conditional rights do not carry any voting rights.

56

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
FinanCiaL rEpOrt

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

index 

paGe

Consolidated income statement 
parent entity income statement 
Balance sheets 
statements of recognised income and expense 
Cash flow statements 

notes to the financial statements 
1. 
2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 
6. 
7. 
8. 
9. 
10. 
11. 
12. 
13. 
14. 
15. 
16. 
17. 
18. 
19. 
20. 
21. 
22. 
23. 
24. 
25. 
26. 
27. 
28. 
29. 
30. 
31. 
32. 
33. 
34. 
35. 
36. 
37. 

Basis of preparation 
Significant accounting policies 
Critical accounting estimates and judgements 
Segment information 
profit from ordinary activities – continuing operations 
Significant items – continuing operations 
employment costs – continuing operations 
net finance costs 
Income tax 
earnings per share 
Dividends 
Discontinued operations 
Business combination 
Cash and cash equivalents 
trade and other receivables  
Inventories 
Derivative financial instruments 
other assets 
Investments 
property, plant and equipment 
Goodwill 
Intangible assets 
trade and other payables 
Borrowings 
provisions 
Retirement benefit obligations  
Contributed equity 
Share-based payments 
Reserves and retained earnings 
Financial risk management  
Cash flow statement – additional information 
Commitments 
Contingencies 
Auditors' remuneration 
Key management personnel 
Related party information 
events after balance sheet date 

directors’ declaration 
independent auditors’ report 

58
59
60
61
62

3
6
3
6
0
7
1
7
3
7
7
4
5
7
5
7
6
7
9
7
0
8
1
8
2
8
3
8
3
8
4
8
5
8
5
8
6
8
8
8
9
8
1
9
2
9
2
9
4
9
5
9
8
9
9
9
3
10
5
10
5
11
7
11
8
11
9
11
9
11
2
12
5
12

126
127

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

57

COnsOLidatEd inCOmE statEmEnt

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

Continuing operations 

Sales revenue 

other income 

operating expenses 

Share of results of joint ventures 

operating profit  

Finance revenue 

Finance costs 

net finance costs 

profit before tax 

tax expense 

profit from continuing operations 

profit from discontinued operations 

profit for the year attributable to members of the parent entity 

earnings per share (cents) 

total 

– basic 

– diluted 

Continuing operations 

– basic 

– diluted 

note

2009 
us$m

2008  
us$m

4,018.6 

4,358.6

96.7 

181.5

(3,402.1) 

(3,515.4)

5.0 

5.9

718.2 

1,030.6

7.1 

10.5

(128.0) 

(160.0)

(120.9) 

(149.5)

597.3 

881.1

(163.3) 

(234.2)

434.0 

18.6 

452.6 

646.9

1.8

648.7

5a 

5a 

5b 

19c 

8 

9 

12b 

10 

32.6 

32.5 

31.3 

31.2 

46.0

45.7

45.9

45.6

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

non-statutory measure:  

underlying profit 

underlying profit is profit from continuing operations before finance costs, tax and Significant items (refer note 6). It is presented to assist users of the 
financial statements to understand Brambles’ business results and reconciles with operating profit as follows: 

underlying profit 

Significant items: 

– foreign exchange gain on capital repatriation 

– restructuring costs  

– Walmart transition impact  

– uSA pallet quality program costs 

– adviser costs – share register activity 

operating profit 

900.6 

1,071.9

6 

6 

6 

6 

6 

77.3 

(153.3) 

(29.0) 

(77.4) 

– 

 –

(5.1)

(10.9)

(20.6)

(4.7)

718.2 

1,030.6

58

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
parEnt Entity inCOmE statEmEnt

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

Continuing operations 

Revenue 

other income 

operating expenses 

operating profit 

Finance revenue 

Finance costs 

net finance revenue 

profit before tax 

tax expense 

profit for the year 

the parent entity income statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

note

2009 
us$m

2008  
us$m

5a 

5a 

5b 

8 

9 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 –

 –

 –

 –

678.2 

1,061.4

(182.3) 

(250.3)

495.9 

495.9 

811.1

811.1

(148.8) 

(240.0)

347.1 

571.1

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
BaLanCE shEEts

 ▶

as at 30 June 2009

Consolidated

parent entity

note

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m 

assets

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents  

trade and other receivables 

Inventories 

Derivative financial instruments 

other assets 

total current assets 

non-current assets

other receivables  

Investments  

property, plant and equipment 

Goodwill 

Intangible assets 

Deferred tax assets 

Derivative financial instruments 

other assets 

total non-current assets 

total assets 

liaBilities

Current liabilities

trade and other payables  

Borrowings 

Derivative financial instruments 

tax payable 

provisions  

total current liabilities 

non-current liabilities

Borrowings 

Derivative financial instruments 

provisions 

Retirement benefit obligations 

Deferred tax liabilities 

other liabilities 

total non-current liabilities 

total liabilities 

net assets 

equity

Contributed equity 

Reserves 

Retained earnings 

parent entity interest 

minority interest 

total equity 

the balance sheets should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

60

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

15 

19 

20 

21 

22 

9 

17 

18 

23 

24 

17 

25 

24 

17 

25 

26 

9 

23 

27 

29 

29 

29 

90.1 

653.6 

35.1 

1.1 

72.2 

104.8 

829.0 

45.1 

4.4 

51.7 

852.1 

1,035.0 

2.5 

 –  

 –  

 –  

16.0 

18.5 

5.4

0.5

 – 

 – 

7.3

13.2

8.1 

13.8 

9.1 

13,428.8 

14,883.6

16.9 

5,838.9 

6,921.3

3,441.6 

3,698.9 

612.3 

163.0 

7.0 

 –  

0.6 

676.1 

186.9 

8.8 

4.3 

0.8 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

4,246.4 

4,601.8 

19,267.7 

21,804.9

5,098.5 

5,636.8 

19,286.2 

21,818.1

683.7 

850.7 

68.0 

12.9 

64.6 

93.6 

91.5 

6.0 

54.9 

74.2 

922.8 

1,077.3 

2,165.5 

2,439.5 

5.8 

53.0 

50.8 

449.9 

21.4 

2.7 

49.8 

63.4 

443.5 

 –  

 –  

 –  

26.8 

 –  

26.8 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

5.4

 – 

5.4

5.0

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

17.1 

4,603.8 

4,487.4

2,746.4 

3,016.0 

4,603.8 

4,492.4

3,669.2 

4,093.3 

4,630.6 

4,497.8

1,429.3 

1,543.5 

14,655.6 

17,320.3

13,847.6 

13,778.6 

13,847.6 

13,778.6

(14,938.7)  (14,671.5) 

2,520.1 

2,436.1 

423.7 

384.3 

3,139.0

402.7

1,429.0 

1,543.2 

14,655.6 

17,320.3

0.3 

0.3 

 –  

 – 

1,429.3 

1,543.5 

14,655.6 

17,320.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
statEmEnts OF rECOgnisEd inCOmE 
and ExpEnsE

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

Actuarial losses on defined benefit pension plans 

26e 

(2.9) 

(34.5) 

 –  

 – 

Consolidated

parent entity

note

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m 

exchange differences on translation of foreign operations:

– foreign operations 

– entities disposed taken to profit 

Cash flow hedges:

– losses taken to equity 

– transferred to profit or loss 

Income tax:

– on items taken directly to or transferred directly from equity 

– on items transferred to profit or loss  

net (expense)/income recognised directly in equity   

(262.6) 

263.5 

(2,718.0) 

2,003.1

(0.6) 

 – 

 –  

(27.9) 

13.7 

(3.8) 

(0.1) 

9a 

9a 

9.5 

(4.8) 

9.1 

 – 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(275.6) 

234.2 

(2,718.0) 

2,003.1

profit for the year 

452.6 

648.7 

347.1 

571.1 

total recognised income and expense for the year

attributable to members of the parent entity  

177.0 

882.9 

(2,370.9) 

2,574.2

Adjustment to opening retained earnings for  AASB 117: leases   

29 

 –  

(2.5) 

– 

–

the statements of recognised income and expense should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash FLOw statEmEnts

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

Cash flows from operating activities

Receipts from customers  

payments to suppliers and employees   

Cash generated from operations 

Dividends received from joint ventures  

Interest received 

Interest paid 

Income taxes paid on operating activities 

Consolidated

parent entity

note

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m 

4,575.7 

4,998.7 

(3,306.8) 

(3,467.9) 

1,268.9 

1,530.8 

7.1 

8.0 

5.2 

9.6 

(131.8) 

(146.4) 

–  

–  

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

0.9 

(0.2) 

0.2

(2.3)

(129.2) 

(232.9) 

(131.6) 

(246.9)

net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities 

31b 

1,023.0 

1,166.3 

(130.9) 

(249.0)

Cash flows from investing activities

proceeds from disposal of businesses   

Costs incurred on disposal of businesses 

Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired 

purchases of property, plant and equipment 

proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 

purchases of intangible assets 

loan inflows with associates and subsidiaries  

net cash (outflow)/inflow from investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities

proceeds from borrowings  

Repayments of borrowings  

net (outflow)/inflow from hedge borrowings 

proceeds from issue of ordinary shares 

Buy-back of ordinary shares 

Dividends paid, net of Dividend Reinvestment plan 

net cash outflow from financing activities  

net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and deposits, net of overdrafts, at beginning of the year 

effect of exchange rate changes 

Cash and deposits, net of overdrafts, at end of the year 

31a 

the cash flow statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

1.8 

(4.8) 

(0.1) 

6.6 

– 

(64.3) 

(683.8) 

(869.4) 

104.6 

(24.3) 

 –  

133.8 

(18.4) 

0.3 

(606.6) 

(811.4) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

398.9 

398.9 

1,038.0

1,038.0

1,404.2 

2,280.3 

(1,513.5) 

(2,010.6) 

(7.9) 

0.8 

– 

95.1 

38.5 

(392.0) 

– 

– 

– 

7.1 

– 

–

–

–

52.3

(392.0)

(277.6) 

(444.8) 

(277.6) 

(444.8)

(394.0) 

(433.5) 

(270.5) 

(784.5)

22.4 

68.1 

(36.4) 

54.1 

(78.6) 

126.9 

19.8 

68.1 

(2.5) 

5.4 

(0.4) 

2.5 

4.5

0.6

0.3

5.4

62

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

Basis of preparation

note 1. 
these financial statements present the consolidated results of 
Brambles limited (ACn 118 896 021) (Company) and its subsidiaries 
(Brambles or the Group) for the year ended 30 June 2009. 

the financial statements comply with International Financial 
Reporting Standards (IFRS). this general purpose financial report 
has been prepared in accordance with Australian equivalents 
to International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS) and in 
accordance with the requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 
(Act). they comply with applicable accounting standards and other 
authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards 
Board (AASB) and the urgent Issues Group (uIG).

the financial statements are drawn up in accordance with the 
conventions of historical cost accounting, except for derivative 
financial instruments and financial assets and liabilities at fair value 
through profit or loss.

References to 2009 and 2008 are to the financial years ended 
30 June 2009 and 30 June 2008 respectively.

Details of unification, whereby Brambles limited acquired all the 
share capital of Brambles Industries limited (BIl) and Brambles 
Industries plc (BIp) under separate schemes of arrangement on 
4 December 2006, are set out in the Brambles 2007 Annual Report. 

siGnifiCant aCCountinG poliCies

note 2. 
the consolidated financial statements and all comparatives have 
been prepared using consistent accounting policies, except for the 
disclosure of Significant items and underlying profit described below 
which were introduced in 2009.

significant items and underlying profit
to assist users of the financial statements in understanding Brambles’ 
business results, Brambles now discloses Significant items as a 
footnote to its income statement. previously Brambles presented 
Special items in a separate column in its income statement.

Significant items are items of income or expense which are, either 
individually or in aggregate, material to Brambles or to the relevant 
business segment and:
 —

outside the ordinary course of business (eg gains or losses on the 
sale or termination of operations, the cost of significant 
reorganisations or restructuring); or
part of the ordinary activities of the business but unusual due to 
their size and nature. 

 —

underlying profit has been introduced as a non-statutory profit 
measure. It is profit from continuing operations before finance costs, 
tax and Significant items.

Comparative figures have been provided for both Significant items and 
underlying profit.

early adoption of standards
Brambles has elected to prospectively apply AASB 2008-7: 
Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Cost of an 
Investment in a Subsidiary, Jointly Controlled entity or Associate 
to annual reporting periods commencing on or after 1 July 2008. 

the impact of this change in policy is that all dividends received from 
investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates can be 
recognised as revenue, even if they are paid out of pre-acquisition 
profits. However, the investments may need to be tested for 
impairment following the dividend receipt. 

other new accounting standards and interpretations 
At 30 June 2009, certain other new accounting standards and 
interpretations have been published that will become mandatory in 
future reporting periods. Brambles has not elected to early-adopt 
these new or amended accounting standards and interpretations. 
the expected impact of these changed accounting requirements 
should not materially alter Brambles’ current accounting policies. 

AASB 8: operating Segments and AASB 2007-3: Amendments to 
Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 8 are applicable 
to annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009. 
AASB 8 requires adoption of a management approach to reporting 
segment performance. the information being reported will be based 
on Brambles’ internal management reporting to the chief operating 
decision-maker and will reflect what the key decision makers use 
internally for evaluating segment performance and deciding how to 
allocate resources to operating segments. the application of AASB 8 
will result in additional disclosures in the financial report. Brambles 
will adopt AASB 8 from 1 July 2009.

AASB 101: presentation of Financial Statements and AASB 2007-8: 
Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from 
AASB 101 are applicable to annual reporting periods beginning on 
or after 1 January 2009. AASB 101 requires the presentation of 
a statement of comprehensive income and makes changes to the 
statement of changes in equity, but will not affect any of the amounts 
recognised in the financial statements. If a prior period adjustment or 
reclassification is made in the financial statements, a third balance 
sheet as at the beginning of the comparative period will need to be 
disclosed. Brambles will apply the revised standard from 1 July 2009.

AASB 123: Borrowing Costs and AASB 2007-6: Amendments 
to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 123 
are applicable to annual reporting periods beginning on or after 
1 January 2009. AASB 123 removes the option to expense all 
borrowing costs and will require the capitalisation of all borrowing 
costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or 
production of a qualifying asset. there will be no impact on Brambles’ 
financial report as the current policy is to capitalise borrowing costs 
relating to qualifying assets.

AASB 2008-1: Amendments to Australian Accounting Standard – 
Share-based payments: vesting Conditions and Cancellations is 
applicable for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 
1 January 2009 and clarifies that only service conditions and 
performance conditions constitute vesting conditions and that other 
features of a share-based payment are not vesting conditions. It also 
specifies that cancellation of awards by the entity or by other parties 
should receive the same accounting treatment. the amendment is 
not expected to affect the accounting for Brambles’ share-based 
payments. Brambles will apply the revised standard from 1 July 2009.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

63

nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 2. siGnifiCant aCCountinG poliCies – ContInueD
Revised AASB 3: Business Combinations, AASB 127: Consolidated 
and Separate Financial Statements and AASB 2008-3: Amendments 
to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 3 and 
AASB 127 are operative for annual reporting periods beginning on 
or after 1 July 2009. the revised AASB 3 continues to apply the 
acquisition method to business combinations, but with some 
significant changes. these changes include expensing all acquisition-
related costs, recording all payments to purchase a business at fair 
value at the acquisition date, with any contingent payments that are 
classified as debt subsequently remeasured through the income 
statement. AASB 3 will now allow acquiring entities a choice on an 
acquisition-by-acquisition basis to measure the non-controlling 
interest in the acquiree either at fair value or based on the proportion 
of the net assets acquired. these new requirements are different to 
the Group’s current policies. the revised AASB 127 specifies that 
when an entity loses control of a subsidiary, any continuing ownership 
interest in the subsidiary must be remeasured to fair value through 
the income statement. the current policy requires the carrying 
amount of the continuing ownership interest to remain at cost. 
Brambles will apply the revised standards prospectively to 
transactions that occur after 1 July 2009. 

AASB 2008-6: Further Amendments to Australian Accounting 
Standards arising from the Annual Improvements project is 
applicable to annual reporting periods commencing on or after 
1 July 2009 and amends AASB 5: Discontinued operations and 
AASB 1: First-time Adoption of Australian Accounting Standards. 
these amendments clarify that, if a plan exists to partially dispose 
a subsidiary which will result in loss of control, then all of the 
subsidiary’s assets and liabilities are to be classified as held for sale. 
Brambles will apply the amendments prospectively to any partial 
disposals of subsidiaries that occur after 1 July 2009. 

AASB 2008-8: Amendment to AASB 139 Financial Instruments: 
Recognition and Measurement is applicable to reporting periods 
commencing on or after 1 July 2009 and makes two significant 
changes. It prohibits designating inflation as a hedgeable component 
of a fixed rate debt. It also prohibits including time value in one-sided 
hedged risk when designating options as hedges. the amendment is 
not expected to have a significant impact on Brambles’ financial 
statements. Brambles will apply the amendments from 1 July 2009. 

AASB Interpretation 16: Hedges of a net Investment in a Foreign 
operation is applicable to annual reporting periods beginning on or 
after 1 october 2008. this interpretation provides guidance on 
identifying foreign currency risks that qualify as hedged risk in the 
hedge of net investments in foreign operations. AASB Interpretation 
16 also provides guidance on determining amounts to be reclassified 
from equity to profit or loss for both the hedging instrument and 
hedged items. Brambles will apply AASB Interpretation 16 from 
1 July 2009, but it is not expected to have any impact on the Group’s 
financial report.

Basis of consolidation
the consolidated financial statements of Brambles include the 
financial statements of Brambles limited and all its legal subsidiaries. 
the consolidation process eliminates all inter-entity accounts and 
transactions. the financial statements of overseas subsidiaries have 
been prepared in accordance with overseas accounting practices and, 
for consolidation purposes, have been adjusted to comply with AIFRS. 

64

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

the financial statements of all subsidiaries are prepared for the same 
reporting period.

on acquisition, the assets and liabilities and contingent liabilities 
of a subsidiary are measured at their fair values at the date of 
acquisition. Any excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair values 
of the identifiable net assets acquired is recognised as goodwill. 
Any deficiency of the cost of acquisition below the fair values of the 
identifiable net assets acquired (ie discount on acquisition) is credited 
to the income statement in the period of acquisition. the interest of 
minority shareholders is stated at the minority’s proportion of the fair 
values of the assets and liabilities recognised.

the results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the year are 
included in the consolidated income statement from the effective date 
of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as appropriate.

investment in controlled entities
Shares in controlled entities, as recorded in the parent entity, are 
recorded at cost.

investment in joint ventures and associates
Investments in associates, where Brambles exercises significant 
influence, and other joint venture entities are accounted for using 
the equity method in the consolidated financial statements, and 
include any goodwill arising on acquisition. under this method, 
Brambles’ share of the profits or losses of associates and joint 
ventures is recognised in the consolidated balance sheet and its 
share of movements in reserves is recognised in consolidated 
reserves. Cumulative movements are adjusted against the cost 
of the investment.

If Brambles’ share of losses in an associate or joint venture exceeds 
its interest in the associate or joint venture, Brambles does not 
recognise further losses unless it has incurred obligations or made 
payments on behalf of its associate or joint venture.

loans to equity accounted associates and joint ventures under formal 
loan agreements are long term in nature and are included as 
investments.

Where there has been a change recognised directly in the joint 
venture’s or associate’s equity, Brambles recognises its share of 
any changes as a change in equity.

non-current assets held for sale
non-current assets and disposal groups classified as held for sale 
are measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less 
costs to sell.

non-current assets and disposal groups are classified as held for sale 
if their carrying amount will be recovered through a sale transaction 
rather than through continuing use. this condition is regarded as met 
only when the sale is highly probable and the asset (or disposal group) 
is available for immediate sale in its present condition. Management 
must be committed to the sale which should be expected to qualify 
for recognition as a completed sale within one year from the date 
of classification.

discontinued operations
the trading results for business operations disposed during the year 
or classified as held for sale are disclosed separately as discontinued 
operations in the income statement. the amount disclosed includes 
any related impairment losses recognised and any gains or losses 
arising on disposal.

Comparative amounts for the prior year are restated in the income 
statement to include current year discontinued operations.

the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries, joint ventures and 
associates that report in the currency of a hyperinflationary economy 
are restated in terms of the measuring unit current at the balance 
sheet date before they are translated into uS dollars.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a 
foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity 
and translated at the closing rate.

the principal exchange rates affecting Brambles were:

segment reporting
Brambles’ primary segment for reporting purposes is by business as 
Brambles’ risks and rates of return are affected predominantly by the 
difference in the products and services between business streams. 
Secondary segment information is reported geographically.

primary segment information is further analysed between continuing 
and discontinued operations.

us$:a$

us$:€

us$:£

average

2009

0.7479

1.3822

1.6103

2008

 0.9040

 1.4835

 2.0111

year end

30 June 2009

 0.8114

 1.4106

 1.6637

30 June 2008

 0.9629

 1.5793

 1.9936

presentation currency
the consolidated and parent entity financial statements are presented 
in uS dollars. 

Brambles has selected the uS dollar as its presentation currency 
for the following reasons:
 —

a significant portion of Brambles’ activity is denominated in uS 
dollars; and
the uS dollar is widely understood by Australian, uK and 
international investors and analysts.

 —

foreign currency
Items included in the financial statements of each of Brambles’ 
entities are measured using the functional currency of each entity.

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional 
currency of each entity using the exchange rates prevailing at the 
dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting 
from the settlement of such transactions, and from the translation 
at year-end rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in 
foreign currencies, are recognised in the income statement, except 
where deferred in equity as qualifying cash flow hedges or qualifying 
net investment hedges.

non-monetary assets and liabilities carried at fair value that are 
denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the rates 
prevailing at the date when the fair value was determined. Gains 
and losses arising on retranslation are recognised directly in equity.

the results and cash flows of Brambles limited, subsidiaries, joint 
ventures and associates are translated into uS dollars using the 
average exchange rates for the period. Where this average is not 
a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates 
prevailing on the transaction dates, the exchange rate on the 
transaction date is used. Assets and liabilities of Brambles limited, 
subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are translated into uS 
dollars at the exchange rate ruling at the balance sheet date. 
Following unification, the share capital of Brambles limited is 
translated into uS dollars at historical rates. All resulting exchange 
differences arising on the translation of Brambles’ overseas and 
Australian entities are recognised as a separate component of equity.

revenue
Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the 
economic benefits will flow to Brambles and the revenue can be reliably 
measured. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration 
received or receivable. Amounts disclosed as revenue are net of duties 
and taxes paid (Goods and Services tax and local equivalents).

Revenue for services is recognised when invoicing the customer 
following the provision of the service and/or under the terms of agreed 
contracts in accordance with agreed contractual terms in the period in 
which the service is provided.

other income
other income includes net gains on disposal of property, plant and 
equipment in the ordinary course of business, which are recognised 
when control of the property has passed to the buyer. Amounts 
arising from compensation for irrecoverable pooling equipment are 
recognised only when it is probable that they will be received.

DIvIDenDS
Dividend revenue is recognised when the shareholders’ right to receive 
the payment is established.

finance revenue
Interest revenue is recognised as the interest accrues (using the 
effective interest method, which is the rate that exactly discounts 
estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of the 
financial instrument) to the net carrying amount of the financial asset.

Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs are recognised as expenses in the year in which 
they are incurred, except where they are included in the cost of 
qualifying assets.

the capitalisation rate used to determine the amount of borrowing 
costs to be capitalised is the weighted average interest rate applicable 
to the entity’s outstanding borrowings during the year. no borrowing 
costs were capitalised in 2009 or 2008.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

65

nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 2. siGnifiCant aCCountinG poliCies – ContInueD
pensions and other post-employment benefits
payments to defined contribution pension schemes are charged as an 
expense as they fall due. payments made to state-managed retirement 
benefit schemes are dealt with as payments to defined contribution 
schemes where Brambles’ obligations under the schemes are 
equivalent to those arising in a defined contribution pension scheme.

A liability in respect of defined benefit pension schemes is recognised in 
the balance sheet, measured as the present value of the defined benefit 
obligation at the reporting date less the fair value of the pension 
scheme’s assets at that date. pension obligations are measured as 
the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at rates 
reflecting the yields of high quality corporate bonds. 

the costs of providing pensions under defined benefit schemes are 
calculated using the projected unit credit method, with actuarial 
valuations being carried out at each balance sheet date. past service 
cost is recognised immediately to the extent that the benefits are 
already vested, and otherwise is amortised on a straight-line basis 
over the average period until the benefits become vested.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from differences between expected 
and actual returns, and the effect of changes in actuarial assumptions 
are recognised in full through the statement of recognised income and 
expense in the period in which they arise. 

the costs of other post-employment liabilities are calculated in a similar 
way to defined benefit pension schemes and spread over the period 
during which benefit is expected to be derived from the employees’ 
services, in accordance with the advice of qualified actuaries.

executive and employee option plans
Incentives in the form of share-based compensation benefits 
are provided to executives and employees under share option, 
performance share and MyShare employee share plans approved 
by shareholders.

options and share awards are fair valued by qualified actuaries at 
their grant dates in accordance with the requirements of AASB 2: 
Share-based payments, using a binomial model. the cost of equity-
settled transactions is recognised, together with a corresponding 
increase in equity, on a straight-line basis over the period in which the 
performance conditions are fulfilled, ending on the date on which the 
relevant employees become fully entitled to the award (vesting date).

assets
Cash and cash equivalents
For purposes of the cash flow statement, cash includes deposits 
at call with financial institutions and other highly liquid investments 
which are readily convertible to cash on hand and are subject to an 
insignificant risk of changes in value, net of outstanding bank 
overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are presented within borrowings in 
the balance sheet.

receivables
trade receivables due within one year do not carry any interest and 
are recognised at amounts receivable less an allowance for any 
uncollectible amounts. trade receivables are recognised when 
services are provided and settlement is expected within normal 
credit terms.

Bad debts are written-off when identified. A provision for doubtful 
receivables is established when there is a level of uncertainty as to 
the full recoverability of the receivable, based on objective evidence. 
Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability that the 
debtor will enter liquidation, receivership or bankruptcy, and default 
or significant delay in payment are considered indicators that the 
trade receivable is doubtful. the amount of the provision has been 
measured as the difference between the carrying amount of the 
trade receivables and the estimated future cash flows expected to be 
received from the relevant debtors. When a trade receivable for which 
a provision had been recognised becomes uncollectible in a subsequent 
period, it is written off against the provision account. Subsequent 
recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against 
other expenses in the income statement.

inventories 
Stock and stores on hand are valued at the lower of cost and net 
realisable value and, where appropriate, provision is made for possible 
obsolescence. Work in progress, which represents partly-completed 
work undertaken at pre-arranged rates but not invoiced at the balance 
sheet date, is recorded at the lower of cost or net realisable value.

Cost is determined on a first-in, first-out basis and, where relevant, 
includes an appropriate portion of overhead expenditure. net 
realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course 
of business, less estimated costs of completion and costs to make 
the sale.

executives and employees in certain jurisdictions are provided cash 
incentives calculated by reference to the options and awards under 
the share option schemes (phantom shares). these phantom shares 
are fair valued on initial grant and at each subsequent reporting date. 
the cost of such phantom shares is charged to the income statement 
over the relevant vesting periods, with a corresponding increase 
in provisions.

recoverable amount of non-current assets
At each reporting date, Brambles assesses whether there is any 
indication that an asset, or cash generating unit to which the asset 
belongs, may be impaired. Where an indicator of impairment exists, 
Brambles makes a formal estimate of recoverable amount. the 
recoverable amount of an asset is the greater of its fair value less 
costs to sell and its value in use.

the fair value calculation of options granted excludes the impact 
of any non-market vesting conditions. non-market vesting conditions 
are included in assumptions about the number of options that are 
expected to become exercisable. At each balance sheet date, 
Brambles reviews its estimate of the number of options that are 
expected to become exercisable. the employee benefit expense 
recognised each period takes into account the most recent estimate.

Where the carrying value of an asset exceeds its recoverable 
amount, the asset is considered to be impaired and is written 
down to its recoverable amount. the impairment loss is recognised 
as a Significant item in the reporting period in which the write-
down occurs. 

the expected net cash flows included in determining recoverable 
amounts of non-current assets are discounted to their present values 
using a market risk adjusted discount rate. 

66

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

property, plant and equipment
property, plant and equipment (ppe) is stated at cost, net of 
depreciation and any impairment, except land which is shown at cost 
less impairment. Cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable 
to the acquisition of assets, and, where applicable, an initial estimate 
of the cost of dismantling and removing the item and restoring the site 
on which it is located.

Subsequent expenditure is capitalised only when it is probable that 
future economic benefits associated with the expenditure will flow 
to Brambles. Repairs and maintenance are expensed in the income 
statement in the period they are incurred.

Depreciation is charged in the financial statements so as to write-off 
the cost of all ppe, other than freehold land, to their residual value on 
a straight-line or reducing balance basis over their expected useful 
lives to Brambles. Residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and 
adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date.

impairment loss is recognised when the recoverable amount of 
the cash generating unit is less than its carrying amount.

on disposal of an operation, goodwill associated with the disposed 
operation is included in the carrying amount of the operation when 
determining the gain or loss on disposal.

intangible assets
Intangible assets acquired are capitalised at cost, unless acquired as 
part of a business combination in which case they are capitalised at 
fair value as at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, 
intangible assets are carried at cost less provisions for amortisation 
and impairment.

the costs of acquiring and developing computer software for internal 
use are capitalised as intangible non-current assets where it is used to 
support a significant business system and the expenditure leads to the 
creation of a durable asset. 

the expected useful lives of ppe are generally:
 —
 —
 —

buildings 
pooling equipment 
other plant and equipment (owned and leased) 

50 years
5–10 years
3–20 years

useful lives have been established for all non-goodwill intangible 
assets. Amortisation charges are expensed in the income statement 
on a straight-line basis over those useful lives. estimated useful lives 
are reviewed annually. 

the cost of improvements to leasehold properties is amortised over 
the unexpired portion of the lease, or the estimated useful life of the 
improvement to Brambles, whichever is the shorter.

provision is made for irrecoverable pooling equipment based on 
experience in each market. the provision is presented within 
accumulated depreciation.

the carrying values of ppe are reviewed for impairment when 
circumstances indicate their carrying values may not be recoverable. 
Assets are assessed within the cash generating unit to which they 
belong. Any impairment losses are recognised in the income statement.

the recoverable amount of ppe is the greater of its fair value less 
costs to sell and its value in use. value in use is determined as 
estimated future cash flows discounted to their present value using 
a pre-tax discount rate reflecting current market assessments of the 
time value of money and the risk specific to the asset.

ppe is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic 
benefits are expected to arise from continued use of the asset. Any 
net gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset is included in the 
income statement and presented as other income in the period in 
which the asset is derecognised.

Goodwill
Goodwill is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. 
Goodwill is not amortised. 

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the 
fair value of Brambles’ share of the net identifiable assets of the 
acquired subsidiary, joint venture or associate at the date of 
acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions of subsidiaries is included in 
intangible assets. Goodwill on acquisitions of joint ventures and 
associates is included in investments in joint ventures and associates.

upon acquisition, any goodwill arising is allocated to each cash 
generating unit expected to benefit from the acquisition. Goodwill 
is tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if events or 
changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired. An 

the expected useful lives of intangible assets are generally:
 —
 —

customer lists and relationships 
computer software 

3–20 years
3–10 years

there are no non-goodwill intangible assets with indefinite lives.

Intangible assets are tested for impairment where an indicator 
of impairment exists, either individually or at the cash generating 
unit level.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are 
measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and 
the carrying amount of the asset and are recognised in the income 
statement when the asset is derecognised.

liaBilities
payables
trade and other creditors represent liabilities for goods and services 
provided to Brambles prior to the end of the financial year which 
remain unpaid at the reporting date. the amounts are unsecured 
and are paid within normal credit terms.

non-current payables are discounted to present value using the 
effective interest method.

provisions
provisions for liabilities are made on the basis that, due to a past 
event, the business has a constructive or legal obligation to transfer 
economic benefits that are of uncertain timing or amount. provisions 
are measured at the present value of management’s best estimate 
at the balance sheet date of the expenditure required to settle the 
obligation. the discount rate used is a pre-tax rate that reflects 
current market assessments of the time value of money and the 
risks appropriate to the liability.

Where discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the 
passage of time is recognised as a finance cost in the income statement.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

67

nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 2. siGnifiCant aCCountinG poliCies – ContInueD
interest bearing liabilities
Borrowings are initially recognised at fair value, net of transaction 
costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised 
cost. Any difference between the borrowing proceeds (net of 
transaction costs) and the redemption amount is recognised in 
the income statement over the period of the borrowings using the 
effective interest method.

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

employee entitlements
employee entitlements are provided by Brambles in accordance with 
the legal and social requirements of the country of employment. 
principal entitlements are for annual leave, sick leave, long service 
leave and contract entitlements. Annual leave and sick leave 
entitlements are presented within trade and other payables.

liabilities for annual leave, as well as those employee entitlements 
which are expected to be settled within one year, are measured at 
the amounts expected to be paid when they are settled. All other 
employee entitlement liabilities are measured at the estimated 
present value of the future cash outflows to be made in respect 
of services provided by employees up to the reporting date.

dividends
A provision for dividends is only recognised where the dividends have 
been declared prior to the reporting date.

 —

leases
leases are classified at their inception as either operating or finance 
leases based on the economic substance of the agreement so as to 
reflect the risks and benefits incidental to ownership.

opeRAtInG leASeS
the minimum lease payments under operating leases, where the 
lessor effectively retains substantially all of the risks and benefits 
of ownership of the leased item, are recognised as an expense on a 
straight-line basis over the term of the lease. 

FInAnCe leASeS
Finance leases, which effectively transfer substantially all of the risks 
and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased item to Brambles, 
are capitalised at the inception of the lease at the fair value of the 
leased asset or, if lower, present value of the minimum lease 
payments, and disclosed as property, plant and equipment held 
under lease. A lease liability of equal value is also recognised.

lease payments are allocated between finance charges and a 
reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant period rate 
of interest on the lease liability outstanding each period. the finance 
charge is recognised as a finance cost in the income statement.

Capitalised lease assets are depreciated over the shorter of the 
estimated useful life of the assets and the lease term.

68

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

income tax
the income tax expense or benefit for the year is the tax payable or 
receivable on the current year’s taxable income based on the national 
income tax rate for each jurisdiction, adjusted by changes in deferred 
tax assets and liabilities attributable to temporary differences 
between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying 
amounts in the financial statements, and to unused tax losses.

Deferred tax is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method 
in respect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of 
assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding 
tax basis used in the computation of taxable profit, calculated using 
tax rates which are enacted or substantively enacted by the balance 
sheet date. 

Deferred tax assets are recognised for deductible temporary 
differences and unused tax losses only if it is probable that future 
taxable amounts will be available to utilise those temporary 
differences and losses. the carrying amount of deferred tax assets is 
reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it 
is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to 
allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognised:
 —

where the deferred tax arises from the initial recognition of an 
asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination 
and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting 
profit nor taxable profit or loss; or
in respect of temporary differences associated with investments 
in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates where the timing of 
the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled and it 
is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the 
foreseeable future.

Current and deferred tax attributable to amounts recognised directly 
in equity are also recognised directly in equity.

financial assets
Brambles classifies its financial assets in the following two 
categories: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and 
loans and receivables. the classification depends on the purpose for 
which the financial assets were acquired.

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.

loAnS AnD ReCeIvABleS
loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed 
or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. 

Financial assets are recognised on Brambles’ balance sheet when 
Brambles becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the 
instrument. Derecognition takes place when Brambles no longer 
controls the contractual rights that comprise the financial instrument, 
which is normally the case when the instrument is sold, or all the cash 
flows attributable to the instrument are passed through to an 
independent third party.

derivatives and hedging activities
Derivative instruments used by Brambles, which are used solely for 
hedging purposes (ie to offset foreign exchange and interest rate 
risks), comprise interest rate swaps, caps, collars, forward rate 
agreements and forward foreign exchange contracts. Such derivative 
instruments are used to alter the risk profile of Brambles’ existing 
underlying exposure in line with Brambles’ risk management policies. 

Derivative financial instruments are stated at fair value. the fair 
value of forward exchange contracts is calculated by reference to 
current forward exchange rates for contracts with similar maturities 
at the balance sheet date. the fair value of interest rate swap 
contracts is calculated as the present value of the forward cash 
flows of the instrument after applying market rates and standard 
valuation techniques.

For the purposes of hedge accounting, hedges are classified as either 
fair value hedges, cash flow hedges or net investment hedges.

FAIR vAlue HeDGeS 
Fair value hedges are derivatives that hedge exposure to changes in 
the fair value of a recognised asset or liability, or an unrecognised 
firm commitment. In relation to fair value hedges which meet the 
conditions for hedge accounting, any gain or loss from remeasuring 
the hedging instrument at fair value is recognised immediately in the 
income statement.

For all other cash flow hedges, the gains or losses that are recognised 
in equity are transferred to the income statement in the same year in 
which the hedged firm commitment affects the net profit and loss, 
for example when the future sale actually occurs.

When the hedged firm commitment results in the recognition of an 
asset or a liability, then, at the time the asset or liability is recognised, 
the associated gains or losses that had previously been recognised in 
equity are included in the initial measurement of the acquisition cost 
or other carrying amount of the asset or liability.

net InveStMent HeDGeS
Hedges for net investments in foreign operations are accounted for 
similarly to cash flow hedges.

Any gain or loss on the hedging instrument that is determined to be 
an effective hedge is recognised directly in equity and the ineffective 
portion is recognised in the income statement.

Gains and losses accumulated in equity are included in the income 
statement when the foreign operation is partially disposed or sold.

DeRIvAtIveS tHAt Do not QuAlIFY FoR HeDGe ACCountInG
Where derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting, gains or losses 
arising from changes in their fair value are taken directly to net profit 
or loss for the year.

Any gain or loss attributable to the hedged risk on remeasurement of 
the hedged item is adjusted against the carrying amount of the hedged 
item and recognised in the income statement. Where the adjustment 
is to the carrying amount of a hedged interest-bearing financial 
instrument, the adjustment is amortised to the income statement 
such that it is fully amortised by maturity.

Contributed equity
ordinary shares including share premium are classified as contributed 
equity. no gain or loss is recognised in the income statement on the 
purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of Brambles’ own equity instruments. 

Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or 
options are shown in equity as a deduction from the proceeds of issue.

Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively if the hedge is 
terminated or no longer meets the hedge accounting criteria. In this 
case, any adjustment to the carrying amounts of the hedged item 
for the designated risk for interest-bearing financial instruments 
is amortised to the income statement following termination of 
the hedge.

CASH FloW HeDGeS 
Cash flow hedges are derivatives that hedge exposure to variability 
in cash flows that is either attributable to a particular risk associated 
with a recognised asset or liability, or a highly probable forecast 
transaction.

In relation to cash flow hedges to hedge forecast transactions which 
meet the conditions for hedge accounting, the portion of the gain or 
loss on the hedging instrument that is determined to be an effective 
hedge is recognised directly in equity and the ineffective portion is 
recognised in the income statement.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging instrument 
expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or no longer qualifies 
for hedge accounting.

At that point in time, any cumulative gain or loss on the hedging 
instrument recognised in equity is kept in equity until the forecast 
transaction occurs.

If a hedged transaction is no longer expected to occur, the net 
cumulative gain or loss recognised in equity is transferred to net profit 
or loss for the year.

earnings per share (eps)
Basic epS is calculated as net profit attributable to members of the 
parent entity, adjusted to exclude costs of servicing equity (other than 
dividends), divided by the weighted average number of ordinary 
shares, adjusted for any bonus element.

Diluted epS is calculated as net profit attributable to members of the 
parent entity, adjusted for:
 —

costs of servicing equity (other than dividends) and preference 
share dividends;
the after-tax effect of dividends and finance costs associated 
with dilutive potential ordinary shares that have been recognised 
as expenses; 
other non-discretionary changes in revenues or expenses during 
the year that would result from the dilution of potential ordinary 
shares;

 —

 —

and divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares and 
dilutive potential ordinary shares, adjusted for any bonus element. 

epS on underlying profit after finance costs and tax is calculated as 
underlying profit after finance costs and tax attributable to members 
of the parent entity, divided by the weighted average number of 
ordinary shares, adjusted for any bonus element.

rounding of amounts
As Brambles is a company of a kind referred to in ASIC Class order 
98/0100, relevant amounts in the financial statements and Directors’ 
Report have been rounded to the nearest hundred thousand uS dollars 
or, in certain cases, to the nearest thousand uS dollars.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

69

nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

CritiCal aCCountinG estimates 

note 3. 
and JudGements
In applying its accounting policies, Brambles has made estimates and 
assumptions concerning the future, which may differ from the related 
actual outcomes. those estimates and assumptions which have a 
significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying 
amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are 
discussed below.

irrecoverable pooling equipment provisioning
loss or damage is an inherent risk of pooling equipment operations. 
CHep’s pooling equipment operations around the world differ in terms 
of business model, market dynamics, customer and distribution 
channel profiles, contractual arrangements and operational details. 
Brambles conducts audits on a regular basis to confirm the existence 
and the condition of its pooling equipment assets, and monitors its 
pooling equipment operations using detailed key performance 
indicators (KpIs). 

the irrecoverable pooling equipment provision is determined by 
reference to historical statistical data in each market, including the 
outcome of audits and relevant KpIs, together with management 
estimates of future equipment losses.

impairment of goodwill
Brambles’ business units undertake an impairment review process 
annually to ensure that goodwill balances are not carried at amounts 
that are in excess of their recoverable amounts. the recoverable 
amount of the goodwill in continuing operations is determined based 
on value in use calculations undertaken at the cash generating unit 
level. these calculations require the use of key assumptions which 
are set out in note 21. 

income taxes
Brambles is a global company and is subject to income taxes in many 
jurisdictions around the world. Significant judgement is required in 
determining the provision for income taxes on a worldwide basis. 
there are many transactions and calculations undertaken during the 
ordinary course of business for which the ultimate tax determination 
is uncertain. Brambles recognises liabilities for anticipated tax audit 
issues based on estimates of whether additional taxes will be due. 
Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from 
amounts provided, such differences will impact the current and 
deferred tax provisions in the period in which such outcome is 
obtained. Refer to note 9 for further details.

provisions on divestments
Brambles has made provisions in relation to vendor warranties and 
other matters associated with the divestments made in 2007 and prior 
years. these provisions have been established by management using 
information currently available. Where the eventual outcome of these 
matters is different from amounts currently provided, such 
differences will impact profits in the period in which such outcome 
is recognised. Refer to note 25 for further details.

70

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

seGment information

note 4. 
Brambles' continuing business segments are CHep (pallet and container pooling) and Recall (information management).  
Discontinued operations primarily comprise the Cleanaway businesses (waste management), which were divested in 2006 and 2007.

Intersegment revenue during the year was immaterial.

By business segment

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

total CHep 

Recall 

total  

By geographic origin

Americas 

europe 

Australia/new Zealand 

Rest of World 

total  

By business segment

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

total CHep 

Recall 

Brambles HQ 

Continuing operations 

Discontinued operations 

total 

total inCome

sales revenue

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

1,615.4 

1,713.5 

1,556.9 

1,581.3

1,479.7 

1,678.3 

1,452.6 

1,642.1

332.6 

398.7 

323.4 

386.9

3,427.7 

3,790.5 

3,332.9 

3,610.3

687.6 

749.6 

685.7 

748.3

4,115.3 

4,540.1 

4,018.6 

4,358.6

1,929.3 

2,047.8 

1,870.2 

1,914.7

1,559.8 

1,768.7 

1,537.1 

1,737.2

477.8 

148.4 

580.1 

143.5 

468.8 

142.5 

568.2

138.5

4,115.3 

4,540.1 

4,018.6 

4,358.6

operatinG profit 1

siGnifiCant items  
Before tax 2

underlyinG profit 2

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

229.0 

286.5 

57.9 

573.4 

95.9 

48.9 

452.3 

396.5 

95.9 

944.7 

121.9 

(36.0) 

(205.4) 

(31.5) 

(41.0) 

(3.2) 

 – 

– 

(249.6) 

(31.5) 

(8.4) 

75.6 

(0.5) 

(9.3) 

434.4 

327.5 

61.1 

823.0 

104.3 

483.8

396.5

95.9

976.2

122.4

(26.7) 

(26.7)

718.2 

1,030.6 

(182.4) 

(41.3) 

900.6 

1,071.9

15.2 

1.2 

15.2 

1.2 

733.4 

1,031.8 

(167.2) 

(40.1) 

1  operating profit is segment revenue less segment expense and excludes net finance costs.
2  underlying profit is profit from continuing operations before finance costs, tax and Significant items. Refer note 6.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

71

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 4. seGment information – ContInueD

Capital expenditure 
(inCludinG aCquisitions)

depreCiation 
and amortisation

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

312.6 

223.6 

93.0 

629.2 

59.0 

5.4 

375.2 

340.4 

95.1 

810.7 

88.1 

0.3 

173.3 

168.5 

36.5 

378.3 

46.0 

0.3 

173.3

193.8

43.2

410.3

47.8

0.5

693.6 

899.1 

424.6 

458.6

338.2 

207.7 

83.0 

64.7 

411.6 

339.5 

73.2 

74.8 

693.6 

899.1 

seGment assets

seGment liaBilities

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

1,739.5 

1,838.6 

1,752.1 

2,051.9 

430.4 

449.5 

3,922.0 

4,340.0 

1,020.1 

1,129.8 

11.0 

18.5 

241.6 

360.3 

72.3 

674.2 

167.7 

79.3 

270.8

402.2

94.4

767.4

179.7

116.8

4,953.1 

5,488.3 

921.2 

1,063.9

90.1 

34.5 

7.0 

13.8 

104.8 

2,233.5 

2,531.0

18.0 

8.8 

16.9 

64.6 

449.9 

– 

54.9

443.5

–

5,098.5 

5,636.8 

3,669.2 

4,093.3

2,196.5 

2,329.1 

1,901.7 

2,275.7 

616.7 

238.2 

700.2 

183.3 

4,953.1 

5,488.3 

By business segment

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

total CHep 

Recall 

Brambles HQ 

total  

By geographic origin

Americas 

europe 

Australia/new Zealand 

Rest of World 

total  

By business segment

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

total CHep 

Recall 

Brambles HQ 

total segment assets and liabilities 

Cash and borrowings 

Current tax balances 

Deferred tax balances 

equity-accounted investments 

total assets and liabilities 

By geographic origin

Americas 

europe 

Australia/new Zealand 

Rest of World 

total 

72

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 5. 

profit from ordinary aCtivities – ContinuinG operations

a) revenue and other income – continuing operations

Sales revenue 

net gains on disposals of property, plant and equipment  

other operating income 

other income 

total income 

b) operating expenses – continuing operations

employment costs (note 7) 

Service suppliers:

– transport 

– repairs and maintenance 

– subcontractors and other service suppliers 

Raw materials and consumables  

occupancy  

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 

Impairment of pooling equipment (refer note 6) 

Irrecoverable pooling equipment provision expense  

Amortisation:

– software  

– acquired intangible assets (other than software)   

– deferred expenditure 

other 1  

c) net foreign exchange gains and losses – continuing operations

net gains/(losses) included in operating profit 1 

net gains/(losses) included in net finance costs 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

4,018.6 

4,358.6 

11.9 

84.8 

96.7 

46.4 

135.1 

181.5 

4,115.3 

4,540.1 

778.2 

787.9 

758.5 

353.4 

434.1 

181.1 

254.3 

391.3 

33.6 

97.8 

22.8 

6.6 

3.9 

813.2 

294.9 

501.5 

195.7 

217.3 

414.0 

– 

91.2 

34.5 

6.5 

3.6 

86.5 

155.1 

3,402.1 

3,515.4 

75.5 

0.1 

75.6 

(1.4) 

(12.0) 

(13.4) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1  Includes a uS$77.3 million foreign exchange gain on capital repatriation from an overseas subsidiary during 2009. Refer note 6 for further details.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

siGnifiCant items – ContinuinG operations

note 6. 
Significant items are items of income or expense which are, either individually or in aggregate, material to Brambles or to the relevant business 
segment and:
 —

outside the ordinary course of business (eg gains or losses on the sale or termination of operations, the cost of significant reorganisations 
or restructuring); or
part of the ordinary activities of the business but unusual due to their size and nature. 

 —

Significant items are disclosed to assist users of the financial statements to understand Brambles’ business results.

Items outside the ordinary course of business: 

– restructuring costs 1 

– reset of tax cost bases and other unification tax matters 2 

– foreign exchange gain on capital repatriation 3 

Items within ordinary activities, but unusual due to size and nature:  

– Walmart transition impact 4 

– uSA pallet quality program costs 5 

Significant items from continuing operations 

Items outside the ordinary course of business: 

– restructuring costs 6 

– reset of tax cost bases and other unification tax matters 2 

– adviser costs – share register activity 7 

Items within ordinary activities, but unusual due to size and nature: 

– Walmart transition impact 4 

– uSA pallet quality program costs 5 

Significant items from continuing operations 

Consolidated

2009

Before tax 
us$m 

tax 
us$m 

after tax 
us$m 

(153.3) 

– 

77.3 

(29.0) 

(77.4) 

(182.4) 

47.0 

(6.5) 

 – 

11.3 

30.3 

82.1 

(106.3)

(6.5)

77.3

(17.7)

(47.1)

(100.3)

2008

Before tax 
us$m 

tax 
us$m 

after tax 
us$m 

(5.1) 

 – 

(4.7) 

(10.9) 

(20.6) 

(41.3) 

4.2 

31.6 

0.2 

4.2 

8.0 

48.2 

(0.9)

31.6

(4.5)

(6.7)

(12.6)

6.9

1   on 16 February 2009, Brambles announced a restructure of its operations, estimated to cost uS$159–uS$169 million before tax, as a response to the effects of 

the global economic crisis on its businesses. An impairment charge of uS$33.6 million, a uS$61.6 million charge for storage and scrapping costs and uS$3.8 million 
depreciation expense have been booked against surplus pallets within the CHep uSA pool. Redundancy and plant closure expenses estimated to cost 
uS$60–uS$70 million will be incurred in various countries, of which uS$54.3 million (including uS$2.4 million depreciation expense) was booked in 2009.

2   In 2008, following receipt of a private ruling from the Australian taxation office, a tax benefit of uS$31.6 million was recognised on the reset of Australian tax cost 

bases as a result of unification. A net adjustment of uS$(6.5) million was made to tax cost bases and other unification tax matters in 2009.

3   During 2009, capital of €460 million was repatriated to Australia from an overseas subsidiary. As required by AASB 121: the effects of Changes in Foreign exchange 

Rates, a portion of the accumulated foreign currency translation reserve previously held in relation to the overseas subsidiary was recognised in the income 
statement, resulting in a uS$77.3 million foreign exchange gain.

4   During 2009, non-recurring transition costs of uS$29.0 million (2008: uS$10.9 million) due to loss of white wood revenue and net additional operational costs were 

incurred within CHep uSA as a result of Walmart's decision to modify management of pallet flows within its network in the uSA.

5   In February 2008, Brambles announced a two year program under which CHep would invest over uS$100 million in operational and capital initiatives focused on 

quality improvement and innovation. During 2009, costs of uS$77.4 million (2008: uS$20.6 million) were incurred within CHep uSA on the pallet quality program. As 
advised in February 2009, this program is expected to be completed by December 2009 with total operational and capital spending now estimated at uS$160 million. 

6  During 2008, Brambles incurred further employment-related and other costs of uS$5.1 million (uS$0.9 million after tax) in relation to restructuring and unification.
7   As a consequence of the share register activity first disclosed to the Australian Securities exchange on 8 August 2007, Brambles incurred advisers' fees of 

uS$4.7 million during 2008.

74

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 7. 

employment Costs – ContinuinG operations

Wages and salaries 

Social security costs 

Share-based payment expense 

pension costs: 

– defined contribution plans 

– defined benefit plans 

other post-employment benefits  

the average monthly number of employees in continuing operations was:

CHep 

Recall 

Brambles HQ 

note 8. 

net finanCe Costs

finance revenue

Bank accounts and short term deposits 

Interest income from subsidiaries and other 

finance costs

Interest expense on bank loans and borrowings 

other  

net finance (costs)/revenue 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

648.2 

652.2 

72.2 

14.2 

19.7 

4.9 

19.0 

74.0 

18.0 

20.3 

4.6 

18.8 

778.2 

787.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2009

2008

2009

2008

7,911 

4,784 

90 

7,456 

4,773 

76 

12,785 

12,305 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

5.3 

1.8 

7.1 

7.8 

2.7 

10.5 

– 

678.2 

678.2 

–

1,061.4

1,061.4

(110.9) 

(141.4) 

(182.3) 

(250.3)

(17.1) 

(18.6) 

– 

–

(128.0) 

(160.0) 

(182.3) 

(250.3)

(120.9) 

(149.5) 

495.9 

811.1

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 9. 

inCome tax

a) Components of tax expense

amounts recognised in the income statement

Current income tax – continuing operations:

– income tax charge 

– prior year adjustments   

Deferred tax – continuing operations:

– origination and reversal of temporary differences  

– previously unrecognised tax losses 

– prior year adjustments   

tax expense – continuing operations  

tax benefit – discontinued operations (note 12b) 

tax expense recognised in the income statement 

amounts recognised in the statement of recognised income and expense 

– on actuarial losses on defined benefit pension plans 

– on losses on revaluation of cash flow hedges 

tax benefit recognised directly in the statement of  recognised income and expense 

b) reconciliation between tax expense and accounting profit before tax

profit before tax – continuing operations 

tax at standard Australian rate of 30% (2008: 30%) 

effect of tax rates in other jurisdictions 

prior year adjustments 

Current year tax losses not recognised  

Foreign withholding tax – unrecoverable 

Change in tax rates 

non-deductible expenses  

prior year tax losses recouped/recognised 

other 

tax expense – continuing operations  

tax benefit – discontinued operations (note 12b) 

total income tax expense  

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

147.3 

(18.1) 

129.2 

29.1 

(9.4) 

14.4 

34.1 

222.7 

(26.8) 

195.9 

44.6 

(15.6) 

9.3 

38.3 

148.8 

242.9

– 

(2.9)

148.8 

240.0

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

163.3 

234.2 

148.8 

240.0

(3.4) 

(0.6) 

– 

–

159.9 

233.6 

148.8 

240.0

0.2 

(4.9) 

(4.7) 

(7.4) 

(1.7) 

(9.1) 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

597.3 

179.2 

(3.6) 

(3.7) 

14.6 

9.4 

(1.1) 

6.1 

(9.4) 

(28.2) 

163.3 

(3.4) 

881.1 

264.3 

8.1 

(17.5) 

6.8 

13.5 

(15.9) 

20.0 

(15.6) 

(29.5) 

495.9 

148.8 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

811.1

243.3

–

(2.9)

–

–

–

–

–

(0.4)

234.2 

148.8 

240.0

(0.6) 

– 

–

159.9 

233.6 

148.8 

240.0

76

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c) Components of and changes in deferred tax assets

Deferred tax assets shown in the balance sheet are   

represented by cumulative temporary differences attributable to:

items recognised through the income statement

employee benefits 

provisions 

losses available against future taxable income 

other 

items recognised directly in equity

Actuarial losses on defined benefit pension plans 

Cash flow hedges 

Share-based payments 

Set-off of deferred tax liabilities 

net deferred tax assets 

Changes in deferred tax assets were as follows:

at 1 July 

Credited/(charged) to the income statement  

Credited directly to equity 

Acquisition of subsidiary   

offset against deferred tax liabilities 

Currency variations 

at 30 June 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

7.5 

52.0 

116.8 

46.9 

223.2 

2.3 

5.3 

0.3 

7.9 

14.8 

17.4 

102.5 

42.4 

177.1 

– 

– 

3.3 

3.3 

(224.1) 

(171.6) 

7.0 

8.8 

8.8 

51.1 

4.6 

– 

(52.5) 

(5.0) 

7.0 

3.1 

(10.7) 

4.1 

2.7 

8.7 

0.9 

8.8 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Deferred tax assets are recognised for carried forward tax losses to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit through future 
taxable profits is probable. At reporting date, Brambles has unused tax losses of uS$493.1 million (2008: uS$458.7 million) available for offset 
against future profits. A deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of uS$324.8 million (2008: uS$276.8 million) of such losses.

the benefit for tax losses will only be obtained if:
 —

Brambles derives future assessable income of a nature and of an amount sufficient to enable the benefit from the deductions for the losses 
to be realised;
Brambles continues to comply with the conditions for deductibility imposed by tax legislation; and
no changes in tax legislation adversely affect Brambles in realising the benefit from the deductions for the losses.

 —
 —

no deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of the remaining unused tax losses of uS$168.3 million (2008: uS$181.9 million) due to the 
unpredictability of future profit streams in the relevant jurisdictions. other than China losses of uS$23.1 million which will expire between 2012 
and 2014, all other losses may be carried forward indefinitely.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 9. inCome tax – ContInueD

d) Components and changes in deferred tax liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities shown in the balance sheet are 

represented by cumulative temporary differences attributable to:

items recognised through the income statement

Accelerated depreciation for tax purposes 

other 

items recognised in the statement of recognised income and expense

on actuarial losses on defined benefit pension plans 

on cash flow hedges 

Set-off of deferred tax assets 

net deferred tax liabilities 

Changes in deferred tax liabilities were as follows:

at 1 July 

Charged to the income statement  

Credited to the statement of recognised income and expense 

Acquisition of subsidiary   

offset against deferred tax asset 

Currency variations 

at 30 June 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

565.7 

108.3 

674.0 

541.9 

64.1 

606.0 

– 

– 

– 

7.4 

1.7 

9.1 

(224.1) 

(171.6) 

449.9 

443.5 

443.5 

389.8 

85.2 

(9.1) 

– 

(52.5) 

(17.2) 

449.9 

27.6 

(8.3) 

6.9 

8.7 

18.8 

443.5 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

At reporting date, the aggregate amount of temporary differences associated with undistributed earnings of subsidiaries for which deferred 
tax liabilities have not been recognised in the consolidated financial statements was uS$1,769.3 million (2008: uS$1,790.9 million). no liability 
has been recognised in respect of these temporary differences because Brambles is in a position to control distributions from subsidiaries 
and it is probable that such differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future. unremitted earnings totalled uS$2,134.7 million (2008: 
uS$2,032.4 million), of which uS$212.3 million relates to earnings post unification.

e) tax consolidation
Brambles limited and its Australian subsidiaries formed a tax consolidated group in 2006. Brambles limited, as the head entity of the tax 
consolidated group, and its Australian subsidiaries have entered into a tax sharing agreement in order to allocate income tax expense. the tax 
sharing agreement uses a stand-alone basis of allocation. Consequently, Brambles limited and its Australian subsidiaries account for their own 
current and deferred tax amounts as if they each continue to be taxable entities in their own right. In addition, the agreement provides funding 
rules setting out the basis upon which subsidiaries are to indemnify Brambles limited in respect of tax liabilities and the methodology by which 
subsidiaries in tax loss are to be compensated.

78

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 10. 

earninGs per sHare

earnings per share  

– basic 

– diluted 

From continuing operations 

– basic 

– diluted 

– basic, on underlying profit after finance costs and tax 

From discontinued operations 

– basic 

– diluted 

Consolidated

2009
us Cents

2008
us Cents

32.6 

32.5 

31.3 

31.2 

38.5  

1.3 

1.3 

46.0

45.7

45.9

45.6

45.4 

0.1

0.1

options, performance share rights and MyShare matching conditional rights granted under Brambles' share plans are considered to be potential 
ordinary shares and have been included in the determination of diluted earnings per share to the extent to which they are dilutive. Details are set 
out in note 28.

a) weighted average number of shares during the year

used in the calculation of basic earnings per share   

Adjustment for share options and rights 

used in the calculation of diluted earnings per share  

b) reconciliations of profits used in eps calculations

statutory profit

profit from continuing operations  

profit from discontinued operations 

profit used in calculating basic and diluted epS 

underlying profit after finance costs and tax

underlying profit (note 4) 

net finance costs (note 8) 

underlying profit before tax 

tax expense on underlying profit 

underlying profit after finance costs and tax 

which reconciles to statutory profit: 

underlying profit after finance costs and tax 

Significant items after tax (note 6) 

profit from continuing operations  

2009
million

2008
million

1,388.3 

1,409.2

4.4 

8.9

1,392.7 

1,418.1

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

434.0 

18.6 

452.6 

646.9

1.8

648.7

900.6 

1,071.9

(120.9) 

(149.5)

779.7 

922.4

(245.4) 

(282.4)

534.3 

640.0

534.3 

(100.3) 

434.0 

640.0

6.9

646.9

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 11. 

dividends

a) dividends declared and paid during the year

Dividend per share (in Australian cents) 

Franked amount at 30% tax (in Australian cents) 

Cost (in uS$ million) 

payment date 

b) dividend declared after reporting date

Dividend per share (in Australian cents) 

Franked amount at 30% tax (in Australian cents) 

Cost (in uS$ million) 

payment date 

Dividend record date 

As this dividend had not been declared at the reporting date, it is not reflected in the financial statements.

interim
2009

17.5 

1.75 

176.3 

final
2008

17.5

1.75

163.2

9 april 2009  

9 october 2008

final 
2009

12.5 

2.5 

144.4 

8 october 2009

18 september 2009

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

c) franking credits

Franking credits available for subsequent financial years based on a tax rate of 30% 

22.0 

14.0

the amounts above represent the balance of the franking account as at the end of the year, adjusted for:
 —
 —
 —
 —

franking credits that will arise from the payment of the current tax liability;
franking debits that will arise from the payment of dividends recognised as a liability at the reporting date;
franking credits that will arise from dividends recognised as receivables at the reporting date; and 
franking credits that may be prevented from being distributed in subsequent financial years.

the dividends declared by Brambles limited after reporting date will be franked to the extent indicated out of existing franking credits or out of 
franking credits arising from the payment of income tax in the year ending 30 June 2010.

80

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 12. 
a) description

disContinued operations

there were minor disposals in 2009 and 2008, with immaterial impact.

b) income statement and cash flow information – discontinued operations

total revenue 

operating expenses  

profit before tax and Significant items  

Significant items: 

– gain recognised on completed disposals 1 

profit before tax from discontinued operations 

tax benefit: 

– on profit before tax and Significant items 

– on Significant items 

total tax benefit from discontinued operations 

profit for the year from discontinued operations 

net cash outflow from operating activities 

net cash outflow from investing activities 

net cash outflow from financing activities 

net decrease in cash from discontinued operations   

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

– 

– 

– 

15.2 

15.2 

– 

3.4 

3.4 

18.6 

–

–

–

1.2

1.2

–

0.6

0.6

1.8

(2.2) 

(4.7)

– 

– 

–

–

(2.2) 

(4.7)

1   In 2009, net favourable provision adjustments of uS$15.2 million (2008: uS$1.2 million) were recognised in respect of divestments completed in 2007 and prior 

years which were outside the ordinary course of business. 

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

Business ComBination

note 13. 
on 4 March 2008, Brambles announced it had agreed to purchase 100% of the issued share capital of leanlogistics, Inc, a leading provider 
of technology-based transport and supply chain solutions in the uSA. Change of control was effective on 7 March 2008. 

For the period from 7 March 2008 to 30 June 2008, leanlogistics contributed revenue of uS$3.3 million and incurred a loss after tax of 
uS$1.2 million. these results are included within the CHep Americas business segment. If the acquisition had occurred on 1 July 2007, Brambles' 
revenue for 2008 would have been uS$7.6 million higher and profit after tax for 2008 uS$0.6 million lower after allowing for finance costs.

the fair value of the leanlogistics assets acquired, liabilities assumed and goodwill were as follows:

Cash paid 

Direct costs relating to the acquisition  

total purchase consideration 

Fair value of net identifiable assets acquired 

Goodwill 

2008 
us$m 

44.7 

2.4 

47.1 

13.8 

33.3 

the goodwill acquired is attributable to the profitability of the acquired business and anticipated synergies with CHep's existing operations. 
the fair values of assets and liabilities acquired, including intangibles such as customer contracts, were established using professional valuers, 
where relevant. 

on acquisition of leanlogistics, assets acquired and liabilities assumed were: 

aCquiree's 
CarryinG 
amount 
us$m 

fair value 
us$m 

0.9  

1.6  

0.1  

0.3  

1.0  

2.7  

6.6  

(2.7) 

(0.3) 

– 

(3.0) 

3.6  

0.9 

1.6 

0.1 

0.3 

17.5 

2.8 

23.2 

(2.7)

(0.3)

(6.4)

(9.4)

13.8 

2008 
us$m 

0.9 

(47.1)

(46.2)

Cash and cash equivalents 

trade and other receivables 

other current assets 

property, plant and equipment 

Intangible assets 

Current and deferred tax assets 

trade and other payables  

Borrowings 

Current and deferred tax liabilities 

net assets 

Cash outflow on acquisition of leanlogistics was as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents acquired 

Cash consideration 

net cash outflow 

In addition to the leanlogistics acquisition, there were minor acquisitions in 2009 and 2008, with immaterial impact.

82

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 14. 

CasH and CasH equivalents

Cash at bank and in hand   

Short term deposits  

Short term deposits have initial maturities varying between 7 days and 3 months. 

Refer to note 30 for other financial instruments disclosures.

note 15. 
Current

trade and otHer reCeivaBles 

trade receivables 

provision for doubtful receivables (a)   

net trade receivables 

other debtors  

Accrued and unbilled revenue 

non-current 

Receivables from subsidiaries 

other receivables  

a) provision for doubtful receivables

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

55.0 

35.1 

90.1 

62.8 

42.0 

104.8 

2.5 

– 

2.5 

461.8 

(11.7) 

450.1 

119.6 

83.9 

653.6 

532.4 

(7.6) 

524.8 

177.9 

126.3 

829.0 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

5.4

–

5.4

–

–

–

0.5

–

0.5

– 

8.1 

8.1 

– 

13,428.8 

14,883.6

9.1 

9.1 

– 

–

13,428.8 

14,883.6

trade receivables are non-interest bearing and are generally on 30–90 day terms. A provision for doubtful receivables is established when there is 
a level of uncertainty as to the full recoverability of the receivable, based on objective evidence. A provision of uS$8.4 million (2008: uS$2.0 million) 
has been recognised as an expense in the current year for specific trade and other receivables for which such evidence exists. 

Movements in the provision for doubtful receivables were as follows:

at 1 July 

Charge for the year 

Amounts written off 

Foreign exchange differences 

at 30 June 

7.6 

8.4 

(4.8) 

0.5 

11.7 

9.5 

2.0 

(4.7) 

0.8 

7.6 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 15. trade and otHer reCeivaBles – ContInueD

At 30 June, the ageing analysis of trade receivables 
by reference to due dates was as follows:

not past due 

past due 0–30 days but not impaired 

past due 31–60 days but not impaired  

past due 61–90 days but not impaired  

past 90 days but not impaired 

Impaired 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

271.8 

115.7 

27.5 

18.5 

16.6 

11.7 

410.8 

72.5 

16.3 

10.7 

14.5 

7.6 

461.8 

532.4 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

At 30 June 2009, trade receivables of uS$178.3 million (2008: uS$114.0 million) were past due but not doubtful. these trade receivables 
comprise customers who have a good debt history and are considered recoverable.

At 30 June 2009, trade receivables of uS$11.7 million (2008: uS$7.6 million) were considered to be impaired. A provision of uS$11.7 million 
(2008: uS$7.6 million) has been recognised for doubtful receivables.

other debtors primarily comprise GSt/vAt recoverable, loss compensation receivables and certain balances arising from outside Brambles' 
ordinary business activities, such as deferred proceeds on sale of businesses and property, plant and equipment. 

At 30 June 2009, other debtors of uS$35.0 million (2008: uS$70.9 million) were past due but not considered to be impaired. no specific collection 
issues have been identified with these receivables. An ageing of these receivables was as follows:

past due 0–30 days but not impaired 

past due 31–60 days but not impaired  

past due 61–90 days but not impaired  

past 90 days but not impaired 

10.1 

0.6 

2.0 

22.3 

35.0 

9.2 

9.8 

2.4 

49.5 

70.9 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

At 30 June 2009, there were no balances within other debtors that were considered to be impaired (2008: uS$0.1 million). no provision has been 
recognised (2008: uS$0.1 million).

Receivables from subsidiaries are unsecured, committed advances repayable in September 2012.

Refer to note 30 for other financial instruments disclosures.

note 16. 

inventories

Raw materials and consumables  

Work in progress  

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

27.8 

7.3 

35.1 

32.3

12.8

45.1

Inventory write-downs recognised as an expense during the year amounted to uS$0.1 million (2008: uS$0.1 million). the expense has been 
included in raw materials and consumables in the consolidated income statement.

84

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 17. 

derivative finanCial instruments

Interest rate swaps – cash flow hedges 

Forward foreign exchange contracts – cash flow hedges 

Forward foreign exchange contracts – held for trading 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

Current assets

Current liaBilities

– 

– 

1.1 

1.1 

3.1 

0.1 

1.2 

4.4 

12.3 

0.5 

0.1 

12.9 

5.8

–

0.2

6.0

non-Current assets

non-Current liaBilities

Interest rate swaps – cash flow hedges 

– 

4.3 

5.8 

2.7

Refer to note 30 for other financial instruments disclosures.

note 18. 

otHer assets

Current

prepayments 

Current tax receivable  

non-current

prepayments 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

37.7 

34.5 

72.2 

33.7 

18.0 

51.7 

– 

16.0 

16.0 

–

7.3

7.3

0.6 

0.8 

– 

–

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

85

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 19. 
a) Joint ventures

investments

Brambles has investments in the following joint ventures, both of which are unlisted jointly controlled entities, which are accounted for using the 
equity method.

name (and nature of Business)

plaCe of inCorporation

CISCo – total Information Management pte. limited 
  (Information management)

Recall Becker GmbH & Co. KG 
  (Document management services)

Singapore 

Germany 

b) movement in carrying amount of investments in joint ventures

at 1 July 

Share of results after income tax (note 19c) 

Dividends received/receivable 

Disposals and repayments 

Foreign exchange differences 

transfer to investments in subsidiaries 

other movements 

at 30 June 

Consolidated

% interest Held
at reportinG date

June 
2009

June 
2008

49% 

49% 

50% 

50% 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

16.9 

5.0 

(7.1) 

– 

(1.0) 

– 

– 

13.8 

23.5

5.9

(5.2)

(0.4)

2.8

(9.2)

(0.5)

16.9

86

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c) share of results of joint ventures

Continuing operations

trading revenue 

expenses 

profit from ordinary activities before tax 

tax expense on ordinary activities 

profit for the year 

d) share of assets and liabilities of joint ventures

Current assets 

non-current assets 

total assets 

Current liabilities 

non-current liabilities 

total liabilities 

net assets – continuing operations 

e) share of commitments and contingent liabilities of joint ventures 

Contingent liabilities 

lease commitments 

total – continuing operations 

f) investments in subsidiaries

Investments in subsidiaries – at cost   

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

11.6 

(5.6) 

6.0 

(1.0) 

5.0 

3.2 

13.8 

17.0 

2.3 

0.9 

3.2 

17.4

(10.5)

6.9

(1.0)

5.9

4.0

16.4

20.4

2.5

1.0

3.5

13.8 

16.9

0.7 

2.5 

3.2 

0.7

2.0

2.7

parent entity

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

5,838.9 

6,921.3

this amount when added to the net intercompany receivables of uS$8,825.0 million (2008: uS$10,396.2 million) reflects the total carrying value 
of Brambles limited's investment in subsidiaries. these amounts are eliminated on consolidation and are assessed for impairment at each 
reporting period.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 20. 

property, plant and equipment

at 1 July 2007

Cost 

Accumulated depreciation 

net carrying amount 

year ended 30 June 2008

opening net carrying amount 

Additions 

Acquisition of subsidiaries 

Disposals  

Disposal of subsidiaries 

other transfers 

Depreciation charge  

Irrecoverable pooling equipment provision expense  

Foreign exchange differences 

Closing net carrying amount 

at 30 June 2008

Cost 

Accumulated depreciation 

net carrying amount 

year ended 30 June 2009

opening net carrying amount 

Additions 

Disposals  

other transfers 

Depreciation charge  1  

Impairment of pooling equipment 

Irrecoverable pooling equipment provision expense  

Foreign exchange differences 

Closing net carrying amount 

at 30 June 2009

Cost 

Accumulated depreciation 

net carrying amount 

Consolidated

land and
BuildinGs
us$m

plant and
equipment
us$m

total
us$m

126.2 

5,148.6 

5,274.8

(44.1) 

(2,010.8) 

(2,054.9)

82.1 

3,137.8 

3,219.9

82.1 

12.4 

1.4 

(4.1) 

(0.2) 

(1.2) 

(7.6) 

– 

7.3 

3,137.8 

3,219.9

838.8 

7.0 

(79.9) 

(1.0) 

(27.3) 

851.2

8.4

(84.0)

(1.2)

(28.5)

(406.4) 

(414.0)

(91.2) 

231.0 

(91.2)

238.3

90.1 

3,608.8 

3,698.9

145.9 

5,935.8 

6,081.7

(55.8) 

(2,327.0) 

(2,382.8)

90.1 

3,608.8 

3,698.9

90.1 

3,608.8 

3,698.9

5.4 

(3.4) 

– 

668.6 

674.0

(88.6) 

(92.0)

(7.6) 

(7.6)

(7.0) 

(384.3) 

(391.3)

– 

– 

(33.6) 

(97.8) 

(33.6)

(97.8)

(10.4) 

(298.6) 

(309.0)

74.7 

3,366.9 

3,441.6

129.0 

5,566.9 

5,695.9

(54.3) 

(2,200.0) 

(2,254.3)

74.7 

3,366.9 

3,441.6

1   During 2009, a residual value was applied to plastic pooling equipment within certain CHep business units to ensure uniform treatment of regrind proceeds 

throughout CHep. the effect in the current period was a decrease in depreciation expense of uS$10.3 million. 

the net carrying amounts above include plant and equipment held under finance lease uS$1.9 million (2008: uS$2.8 million); leasehold improvements 
uS$6.4 million (2008: uS$7.1 million); and capital work in progress uS$17.9 million (2008: uS$18.3 million).

88

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 21. 

Goodwill

a) net carrying amounts and movements during the year

at 1 July

Carrying amount 

year ended 30 June

opening net carrying amount 

Acquisition of subsidiaries  

Disposal of subsidiaries 

other transfers 

Foreign exchange differences 

Closing net carrying amount 

at 30 June

Gross carrying amount 

Accumulated impairment  

net carrying amount 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008 
us$m 

676.1 

606.1

676.1 

– 

(0.6) 

0.3 

(63.5) 

612.3 

606.1

44.7

(14.0)

(2.2)

41.5

676.1

612.3 

676.1

– 

–

612.3 

676.1

b) segment-level summary of net carrying amount

Goodwill acquired through business combinations is allocated to cash generating units (CGu), which are the smallest identifiable groupings of 
Brambles' cash generating assets. A segment-level summary of the goodwill allocation is presented as follows: 

CHep Americas 

CHep eMeA 

CHep Asia-pacific 

total CHep 

Recall 

total goodwill  

51.3 

41.0 

24.5 

51.9

47.6

28.7

116.8 

128.2

495.5 

612.3 

547.9

676.1

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 21. Goodwill – ContInueD

c) recoverable amount testing – continuing operations
the recoverable amount of goodwill is determined based on value in use calculations undertaken at the CGu level. the value in use is calculated 
using a discounted cash flow methodology covering a 10 year period with an appropriate terminal value at the end of that period. 

Based on the impairment testing, the recoverable amounts of goodwill in the CGus related to continuing operations at reporting date were fully 
supported. 

the following describes the key assumptions on which management has based its cash flow projections:

CASH FloW FoReCAStS 
Cash flow forecasts are based on the most recent financial projections covering a maximum period of five years. Cash flows beyond that period 
are extrapolated using estimated growth rates. Financial projections are based on assumptions that represent management’s best estimates.

GRoWtH RAteS
Growth rates ranging from nil to 4% were used beyond the period covered in the financial projections. they are based on management’s 
expectations for future performance and do not normally exceed the long term growth rate for the business in which the CGu operates. 

teRMInAl vAlue
the terminal value calculated after year 10 is determined using the stable growth model, having regard to the weighted average cost of capital 
and terminal growth factor appropriate to each CGu.

DISCount RAteS
Discount rates used are the pre-tax weighted average cost of capital (WACC) and include a premium for market risks appropriate to each country 
in which the CGu operates. WACCs ranged between 9.9% and 22.7%.

SenSItIvItY
Any reasonable change to the above key assumptions would not cause the carrying value of the CGu to materially exceed its recoverable amount.

90

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

note 22. 

intanGiBle assets

at 1 July 2007

Gross carrying amount 

Accumulated amortisation 

net carrying amount 

year ended 30 June 2008 

opening carrying amount  

Additions 

Acquisition of subsidiaries 

Disposals 

Disposal of subsidiaries 

other transfers 

Amortisation charge 

Foreign exchange differences 

Closing carrying amount   

at 30 June 2008

Gross carrying amount 

Accumulated amortisation 

net carrying amount 

year ended 30 June 2009

opening carrying amount  

Additions 

Disposals  

other transfers 

Amortisation charge  2 

Foreign exchange differences 

Closing carrying amount   

at 30 June 2009

Gross carrying amount 

Accumulated amortisation 

net carrying amount 

Consolidated

software
us$m

otHer 1
us$m

total
us$m

276.9 

125.9 

402.8

(196.8) 

(55.7) 

(252.5)

80.1 

70.2 

150.3

80.1 

16.5 

8.8 

(1.6) 

(0.2) 

14.1 

70.2 

1.7 

20.9 

– 

– 

13.1 

150.3

18.2

29.7

(1.6)

(0.2)

27.2

(34.5) 

(10.1) 

(44.6)

0.4 

83.6 

7.5 

103.3 

7.9

186.9

314.5 

174.3 

488.8

(230.9) 

(71.0) 

(301.9)

83.6 

103.3 

186.9

83.6 

20.9 

(0.1) 

2.4 

(22.8) 

(6.8) 

77.2 

103.3 

3.5 

– 

2.1 

(10.5) 

(12.6) 

186.9

24.4

(0.1)

4.5

(33.3)

(19.4)

85.8 

163.0

307.9 

160.2 

468.1

(230.7) 

(74.4) 

(305.1)

77.2 

85.8 

163.0

1  other intangible assets primarily comprise acquired customer lists and agreements.
2   During 2009, the estimated useful life of certain customised software in the CHep business was revised from seven years to ten years to reflect the extended 

utilisation of the software. the effect in the current period was a decrease in amortisation expense of uS$10.5 million.  

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 23. 

trade and otHer payaBles

Current

trade payables 

GSt/vAt and other payables 

Accruals and deferred income 

non-current

payables to subsidiaries 

other liabilities 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

2009 
us$m

2008 
us$m

287.1 

72.6 

324.0 

683.7 

341.0 

111.5 

398.2 

850.7 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 –  

21.4 

21.4 

 –  

4,603.8 

4,487.4

17.1 

17.1 

 –  

 – 

4,603.8 

4,487.4

trade payables and other current payables are non-interest bearing and are generally settled on 30–90 day terms. 

Refer to note 30 for other financial instruments disclosures.

note 24. 
Current

BorrowinGs

unsecured: 

– bank overdraft 

– bank loans  

– accrued interest on loan notes 

– finance lease liabilities (note 32) 

non-current

unsecured:

– bank loans 1 

– loan notes 2,3 

– finance lease liabilities (note 32) 

total borrowings 

36.0 

16.6 

14.9 

0.5 

68.0 

36.7 

39.7 

14.3 

0.8 

91.5 

1,629.1 

2,012.5 

535.0 

425.0 

1.4 

2.0 

2,165.5 

2,439.5 

2,233.5 

2,531.0 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

5.0

 – 

 – 

5.0

5.0

1   unsecured bank loans include the following: (i) revolving loans in various currencies priced off lIBoR and drawn under multi-currency global banking facilities with a 
range of maturities out to December 2013 and (ii) various regional banking facilities providing local currency funding to certain subsidiaries. Included in bank loans is 
a borrowing of uS$71.2 million (2008: uS$79.8 million) which has been designated as a hedge of the net investment in Brambles’ european subsidiaries and is being 
used to partially hedge Brambles’ exposure to foreign exchange risks on these investments. 

2   notes issued in respect of uS$425.0 million uS private placement in August 2004. the terms of the note are (i) Series A uS$171.0 million 5.39% Guaranteed Senior 
unsecured notes due 4 August 2011; (ii) Series B uS$157.5 million 5.77% Guaranteed Senior unsecured notes due 4 August 2014; and (iii) Series C uS$96.5 million 
5.94% Guaranteed Senior unsecured notes due 4 August 2016.

3   notes issued in respect of uS$110.0 million uS private placement in May 2009. the terms of the note are (i) Series A uS$35.0 million 7.29% Guaranteed Senior 

unsecured notes due 7 May 2014; (ii) Series B uS$55.0 million 7.83% Guaranteed Senior unsecured notes due 7 May 2016; and (iii) Series C uS$20.0 million 8.23% 
Guaranteed Senior unsecured notes due 7 May 2019.

Refer to note 30 for other financial instruments disclosures.

92

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
a) Borrowing facilities and credit standby arrangements

total facilities: 

– committed borrowing facilities 

– loan notes 

– credit standby/uncommitted arrangements 

Facilities used at reporting date:1 

– committed borrowing facilities 

– loan notes 

– credit standby/uncommitted arrangements 

Facilities available at reporting date: 

– committed borrowing facilities 

– credit standby/uncommitted arrangements 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008 
us$m 

2,845.3 

3,647.5

535.0 

129.6 

425.0

162.0

3,509.9 

4,234.5

1,647.5 

2,018.9

535.0 

43.5 

425.0

61.3

2,226.0 

2,505.2

1,197.8 

1,628.6

86.1 

100.7

1,283.9 

1,729.3

Borrowing facilities are arranged by Brambles on behalf of its subsidiaries. Funding is generally sourced from relationship banks on a medium to 
long term basis. the expiry dates of committed facilities range out to calendar year 2013. the average term of maturity of these facilities and the 
uS private placement notes is equivalent to 3.3 years (2008: 2.2 years). All facilities are unsecured, generally structured on a multi-currency 
revolving basis and are guaranteed as described in note 33a. 

b) Borrowing facilities maturity profile

maturity

type

2009

less than 1 year 

Bank loans/overdrafts 

1–2 years 

2–3 years 

3–4 years 

4–5 years 

Bank loans 

Bank loans/loan notes 

Bank loans 

Bank loans/loan notes 

over 5 years 

loan notes 

2008

less than 1 year 

 Bank loans/overdrafts 

1–2 years 

2–3 years 

3–4 years 

4–5 years 

over 5 years 

Bank loans 

Bank loans 

loan notes 

Bank loans 

loan notes 

Consolidated

total
faCilities
us$m

faCilities
used 1
us$m

faCilities
availaBle
us$m

134.7 

685.8 

795.6 

583.0 

981.8 

329.0 

45.2 

332.8 

557.3 

380.6 

581.1 

329.0 

89.5

353.0

238.3

202.4

400.7

 – 

3,509.9 

2,226.0 

1,283.9

679.2 

4.3 

63.9 

2.8 

615.3

1.5

2,975.6 

1,910.0 

1,065.6

171.4 

150.0 

254.0 

171.4 

103.1 

254.0 

 – 

46.9

 – 

4,234.5 

2,505.2 

1,729.3

1   Facilities used represents the principal value of loan notes and borrowings debited against the relevant facilities to reflect the correct amount of funding headroom. 
this amount differs by uS$7.5 million (2008: uS$25.8 million) from loan notes and borrowings as shown in the balance sheet which are measured on the basis of 
amortised cost as determined under the effective interest method and include accrued interest. 

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

93

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 25. 

provisions

at 1 July 2008

Current 

non-current 

Charge to income statement:

– additional provisions 

– unused amounts reversed 

utilisation of provision 

unwinding of discount 

Currency variations 

at 30 June 2009 

Current 

non-current 

Consolidated

employee
entitlements
us$m

Business 
disposals
us$m

otHer
us$m

total
us$m

38.1 

4.4 

42.5 

11.3 

40.3 

51.6 

24.8 

5.1 

29.9 

45.0 

 –  

80.1 

 –  

(14.8) 

 –  

(33.6) 

(1.3) 

(36.0) 

 –  

(6.7) 

47.2 

41.8 

5.4 

 –  

(8.6) 

26.9 

8.1 

18.8 

0.2 

(1.7) 

72.5 

43.7 

28.8 

74.2

49.8

124.0

125.1

(14.8)

(70.9)

0.2

(17.0)

146.6

93.6

53.0

employee entitlements provision comprises uS$9.0 million (2008: uS$7.9 million) for long service leave, uS$1.3 million for phantom shares 
(2008: uS$1.8 million) and uS$36.9 million (2008: uS$32.8 million) for other employee related obligations (other than those resulting from 
pension plans). none of these amounts related to phantom shares which had vested at reporting date. uS$3.6 million (2008: uS$3.5 million) of 
the long service leave provision has been recognised as current as it is expected to vest within one year from reporting date. the remaining balance 
of long service leave of uS$5.4 million (2008: uS$4.4 million) is expected to vest within the next two to ten years and has been discounted to 
present value. 

other provisions comprise uS$39.8 million (2008: nil) for restructuring costs, uS$1.3 million (2008: uS$3.3 million) for litigation and customer 
disputes and uS$31.4 million (2008: uS$26.6 million) for other known exposures.

94

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 26. 

retirement Benefit oBliGations 

a) defined contribution plans
Brambles operates a number of defined contribution retirement benefit plans for qualifying employees. the assets of these plans are held in 
separately administered trusts or insurance policies. In some countries, Brambles’ employees are members of state-managed retirement benefit 
plans. Brambles is required to contribute a specified percentage of payroll costs to the retirement benefit plan to fund benefits. the only obligation 
of Brambles with respect to defined contribution retirement benefit plans is to make the specified contributions.

uS$19.7 million (2008: uS$20.3 million) representing contributions paid and payable to these plans by Brambles at rates specified in the rules 
of the plans relating to continuing operations has been recognised as an expense in the income statement. 

b) defined benefit plans
Brambles operates a number of defined benefit pension plans, which are closed to new entrants. the majority of the plans are self-administered 
and the plans’ assets are held independently of Brambles' finances. under the plans, members are entitled to retirement benefits based upon a 
percentage of final salary. no other post-retirement benefits are provided. the plans are funded plans. 

the plan assets and the present value of the defined benefit obligation recognised in Brambles' balance sheet are based upon the most recent 
formal actuarial valuations which have been updated to 30 June 2009 by independent professionally qualified actuaries and take account of the 
requirements of AASB 119. the present value of the defined benefit obligation, the related current service cost and past service cost were 
measured using the projected unit credit method.

In addition to the principal defined benefit plans included in disclosures below, Brambles has a number of other arrangements in several countries 
that are either defined benefit pension plans or have certain defined benefit characteristics. each of these arrangements has been assessed as 
immaterial separately and in aggregate and they have not been subjected to an independent AASB 119 valuation.

c) Balance sheet amounts

the amounts recognised in Brambles’ balance sheet in respect of defined benefit plans were as follows:

present value of defined benefit obligations 

Fair value of plan assets   

net liability recognised in the balance sheet  

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

196.0 

242.5

(145.2) 

(179.1)

50.8 

63.4

Brambles has no legal obligation to settle this liability with an immediate contribution or additional one-off contributions. Brambles intends to 
continue to make contributions to the plans at the rates recommended by the funds' actuaries. Refer note 26(i).

d) income statement amounts
the amounts recognised in Brambles’ income statement in respect of defined benefit plans were as follows:

Current service cost 

Interest cost 

expected return on plan assets 

Changes arising from curtailments and settlements 

net benefit expense included in employment cost (note 7) 

e) statement of recognised income and expense amounts
Actuarial losses reported in the statement of recognised income and expense:

– continuing operations 

Cumulative actuarial losses recognised 

3.6 

12.8 

4.9

12.7

(10.9) 

(13.0)

(0.6) 

4.9 

 –

4.6

(2.9) 

(12.4) 

(34.5)

(9.5)

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 26. retirement Benefit oBliGations – ContInueD

f) defined benefit obligation

Changes in the present value of the defined benefit obligation were as follows:

at 1 July 

Current service cost 

Interest cost 

Contributions from plan members 

Actuarial gains and losses 

Currency variations 

Benefits paid 

Curtailments 

at 30 June 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

242.5 

216.8

3.6 

12.8 

0.7 

(23.4) 

(33.9) 

(5.7) 

(0.6) 

4.9

12.7

0.9

13.9

(1.9)

(4.8)

– 

196.0 

242.5

All Brambles' defined benefit pension arrangements are closed to new entrants. under the projected unit method, the current service cost of these 
arrangements will increase as a percentage of payroll as the members of the plan approach retirement.

g) plan assets

Consolidated

2009
fair value

2008
fair value

us$m

%

us$m

%

66.3 

25.5 

4.9 

16.2 

32.3 

45.7 

17.6 

3.4 

11.1 

22.2 

86.2 

31.5 

8.4 

19.1 

33.9 

48.1

17.6

4.7

10.7

18.9

145.2 

100.0 

179.1 

100.0

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

179.1 

10.9 

(26.3) 

(20.3) 

6.8 

0.7 

187.2

13.0

(20.7)

(4.9)

8.4

0.9

(5.7) 

(4.8)

145.2 

179.1

Assets held in the plans fell within the following categories:

equities 

Bonds 

Insurance bonds 

Cash 

other 

Changes in the fair value of the plan assets were as follows:

at 1 July 

expected return on plan assets 

Actuarial gains and losses 

Currency variations 

Contributions from sponsoring employers 

Contributions from plan members 

Benefits paid 

at 30 June 

the actual return on plan assets was uS$(15.4) million (2008: uS$(7.8) million).

96

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
h) principal actuarial assumptions

uK

europe
otHer 
tHan uK

soutH
afriCa

principal actuarial assumptions (expressed as weighted averages) used in determining Brambles’ defined benefit obligations were:

at 30 June 2009

Rate of increase in salaries 

Rate of increase in pensions 

Discount rate 

Retail price inflation 

Return on equities 

Return on bonds 

Return on cash 

at 30 June 2008

Rate of increase in salaries 

Rate of increase in pensions 

Discount rate 

Retail price inflation 

Return on equities 

Return on bonds 

Return on cash 

4.4% 

3.4% 

6.2% 

3.4% 

8.3% 

6.0% 

5.0% 

5.2% 

4.0% 

6.1% 

4.2% 

8.3% 

6.6% 

5.0% 

3.7% 

2.9% 

6.2% 

2.4% 

7.8% 

4.5% 

2.4% 

4.0% 

3.5% 

5.9% 

2.5% 

7.8% 

4.9% 

3.0% 

8.0%

6.5%

9.0%

6.5%

12.6%

9.3%

7.6%

8.0%

8.0%

10.5%

8.0%

13.5%

11.0%

9.0%

Assumptions about mortality are made using actuarial tables, for example 115% of standard table pA00 based on members' years of birth and 
incorporating the medium cohort projections of longevity improvements for the uK schemes. using these tables, the life expectancy of a uK 
pensioner aged 65 today would be 89 years for both men and women.

the expected return on plan assets is based on market expectations at the beginning of the period for returns over the entire life of the benefit 
obligation.

i) employer contributions 
During the year, employer contributions to the main defined benefit plans ranged between 11% and 17% of pensionable pay.

the obligation to contribute to the various defined benefit plans is covered by trust deeds and/or legislation. Funding levels and contributions for 
these plans are based on regular actuarial advice. Comprehensive actuarial valuations are made at no more than three yearly intervals. Additional 
annual contributions of uS$3.4 million (2008: uS$4.2 million) are being paid to remove the identified deficits over a period of 6 years.

Contributions paid to the plans during 2009 were uS$6.8 million (2008: uS$8.4 million) of which nil (2008: nil) related to discontinued operations. 
It is estimated that the amount of contributions to be paid to the plans during 2010 will be uS$8.4 million.

j) Historical summary

the history of the defined benefit plan deficit at the end of each year is as follows:

– plan liabilities 

– plan assets 

net liability recognised in the balance sheet 

the history of favourable/(unfavourable) experience adjustments made in each  

year is as follows:

– on plan liabilities 

– on plan assets 

net favourable/(unfavourable) adjustment 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2007
us$m

2006 
us$m 

2005 
us$m 

(196.0) 

(242.5) 

(216.8) 

(602.1) 

(583.6)

145.2 

(50.8) 

179.1 

(63.4) 

187.2 

453.1 

394.6

(29.6) 

(149.0) 

(189.0)

23.4 

(26.3) 

(2.9) 

(13.9) 

(20.7) 

(34.6) 

(17.2) 

17.2 

–  

3.0 

31.1 

34.1 

(47.4)

38.2

(9.2)

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 27. 

ContriButed equity

total ordinary shares, of no par value, issued and fully paid:

At 1 July 2007 

Issued during the year on the exercise of options 

purchased on-market and cancelled 

at 30 June 2008 

At 1 July 2008 

Issued during the year on the exercise of options 

Issued during the year under the Dividend Reinvestment plan 

at 30 June 2009 

sHares

us$m

1,415,485,064 

14,062.8

10,475,382 

52.3

(42,409,560) 

(336.5)

1,383,550,886 

13,778.6

1,383,550,886 

13,778.6

1,630,312 

16,687,841 

7.1

61.9

1,401,869,039 

13,847.6

ordinary shares of Brambles limited entitle the holder to participate in dividends and the proceeds on any winding up of the Company in proportion 
to the number of shares held.

98

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
sHare-Based payments

note 28. 
on unification, options and performance share rights over Brambles Industries limited (BIl) and Brambles Industries plc (BIp) shares held by 
employees and former employees were cancelled and replaced by options and performance share rights over Brambles limited shares on 
substantially similar terms. this was accounted for as a modification without incremental value under AASB 2: Share-based payments and did 
not result in any additional remuneration expense.

the Remuneration Report sets out details relating to the Brambles share plans (pages 46 to 47), together with details of options, performance 
share rights and MyShare matching conditional rights issued to executive Directors and Key Management personnel (pages 40 to 41). options and 
rights granted by Brambles do not result in an entitlement to participate in share issues of any other corporation.

Set out below are summaries of options and rights granted under the plans.

a) Grants over Brambles limited shares issued subsequent to unification

Grant date

expiry date

exerCise
priCe
a$

BalanCe
at 1 July

Granted
durinG 
tHe year

exerCised
durinG 
tHe year

forfeited
durinG 
tHe year

BalanCe 
at 30 June

2009

myshare and performance share rights

19 January 2007 

29 August 2007 

31 August 2012 

30 August 2013 

26 February 2008 

2 December 2013 

2 March 2014 

29 April 2014 

27 August 2014 

31 March 2011 

31 March 2011 

31 March 2011 

1 June 2010 

31 March 2011 

19 March 2008 

28 April 2008 

27 August 2008 

31 March 2009 

30 April 2009 

29 May 2009 

1 June 2009 

30 June 2009 

total rights 

2008 (summarised)

total rights 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

2,041,506 

2,210,790 

28,406 

36,365 

125,250 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(83,866) 

(57,010) 

1,900,630

(88,750) 

(139,245) 

1,982,795

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

28,406

36,365

125,250

3,946,117 

(12,406) 

(88,898) 

3,844,813

70,407 

59,149 

46,958 

85,830 

43,509 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(911) 

(610) 

(260) 

 –  

 –  

69,496

58,539

46,698

85,830

43,509

4,442,317 

4,251,970 

(185,022) 

(286,934) 

8,222,331

2,588,281 

2,506,597 

(230,875) 

(421,686) 

4,442,317

of the above grants, 135,613 rights were exercisable at 30 June 2009. 

Weighted average data:

– fair value at grant date of grants made during the year 

– share price at exercise date of grants exercised during the year 

– remaining contractual life at 30 June 

2009

2008

A$ 

A$ 

years 

5.61 

6.57 

4.3 

10.03

11.41

4.6

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

99

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 28. sHare-Based payments – ContInueD

b) Grants over Bil shares pre-unification, now over Brambles limited shares

Grant date

expiry date

exerCise
priCe
a$

BalanCe
at 1 July

Granted
durinG
tHe year

exerCised
durinG
tHe year

forfeited
durinG
tHe year

BalanCe 
at 30 June

2009

options

7 August 2001 

25 June 2003 

1 July 2008 

25 December 2008 

10 September 2003 

10 September 2009 

4 March 2004 

27 June 2005 

total options 

4 March 2010 

27 December 2008 

performance share rights

5 September 2002 

5 September 2008 

10 September 2003 

10 September 2009 

24 november 2004 

4 March 2010 

8 September 2004 

8 September 2010 

21 october 2005 

21 october 2011 

total rights 

total  

11.24 

4.74 

4.75 

5.31 

8.20 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

278,300 

326,824 

122,590 

155,586 

1,452,506 

2,335,806 

4,429 

19,069 

10,599 

85,399 

2,262,855 

2,382,351 

4,718,157 

Weighted average exercise price of options 

A$ 

7.70 

2008 (summarised)

total options 

total rights 

total 

9,140,389 

7,211,692 

16,352,081 

Weighted average exercise price of options 

A$ 

6.64 

of the above grants, 263,757 options and 194,253 rights were exercisable at 30 June 2009.

Weighted average data:

– share price at exercise date of grants exercised during the year 

– remaining contractual life at 30 June 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(278,300) 

(224,625) 

(102,199) 

 – 

 – 

(14,419) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

108,171

155,586

(21,794) 

(1,430,712) 

 – 

(260,838) 

(1,811,211) 

263,757

(4,429) 

(3,605) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(44,264) 

(7,346) 

 – 

15,464

10,599

33,789

(882,849) 

(1,245,605) 

134,401

(935,147) 

(1,252,951) 

194,253

(1,195,985) 

(3,064,162) 

458,010

5.03 

8.47 

5.08

(4,848,533) 

(1,956,050) 

2,335,806

(4,147,522) 

(681,819) 

2,382,351

(8,996,055) 

(2,637,869) 

4,718,157

5.93 

7.10 

7.70

2009

2008

A$ 

years 

7.40 

1.1 

12.73

2.0

100

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c) Grants over Bip shares pre-unification, now over Brambles limited shares

Grant date

expiry date

exerCise
priCe
 £

BalanCe
at 1 July

Granted
durinG 
tHe year 

exerCised
durinG 
tHe year

forfeited
durinG 
tHe year

BalanCe 
at 30 June

2009

options

10 September 2003 

10 September 2009 

4 March 2004 

total options 

4 March 2010 

performance share rights

5 September 2002 

5 September 2008 

10 September 2003 

10 September 2009 

4 March 2004 

4 March 2010 

8 September 2004 

9 September 2010 

21 october 2005 

22 october 2011 

total rights 

total  

1.72 

2.11 

196,110 

155,586 

351,696 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

5,470 

13,175 

10,599 

66,273 

919,805 

1,015,322 

1,367,018 

Weighted average exercise price of options  

£  

1.89 

2008 (summarised)

total options 

total rights 

total 

1,232,421 

2,457,477 

3,689,898 

Weighted average exercise price of options 

£  

2.15 

of the above grants, 258,177 options and 152,781 rights were exercisable at 30 June 2009. 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

Weighted average data:

– share price at exercise date of grants exercised during the year 

– remaining contractual life at 30 June 

(14,419) 

 –  

(14,419) 

(3,623) 

(3,605) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

181,691

155,586

337,277

(1,847) 

 – 

 –  

 –  

9,570

10,599

34,818

97,794

(8,820) 

(22,635) 

(328,051) 

(493,960) 

(344,099) 

(518,442) 

152,781

(358,518) 

(518,442) 

490,058

1.72 

 –  

1.90

(285,077) 

(595,648) 

351,696

(1,295,540) 

(146,615) 

1,015,322

(1,580,617) 

(742,263) 

1,367,018

2.09 

2.33 

1.89

2009

2008

£ 

years 

3.53 

0.9 

5.85

2.7

there were 89,408 grants, 74,722 exercises and 1,188,354 forfeits in options, performance share rights and MyShare matching conditional rights 
over Brambles limited shares between the end of the financial year and 19 August 2009.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

101

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 28. sHare-Based payments – ContInueD

d) fair value calculations
the fair value of equity-settled options, performance share rights and MyShare matching conditional rights was determined as at grant date, using 
a binomial valuation methodology. the values calculated do not take into account the probability of options and rights being forfeited prior to 
vesting, as a probability adjustment is made when computing the share-based payment expense.

the significant inputs into the valuation models for the equity-settled grants made during the year were:

Weighted average share price   

expected volatility   

expected life  

Annual risk-free interest rate   

expected dividend yield  

2009
Grants

a$7.22 

33% 

2008
Grants

A$13.18

22%

1.0–3.0 years 

2.8–3.0 years

3.56–5.60% 

5.94–6.77%

3.5–3.9% 

2.2–3.5%

the expected volatility was determined based on a two-year historic volatility of Brambles' share prices.

e) share-based payment expense – continuing operations
Brambles recognised a total expense of uS$14.213 million (2008: uS$18.012 million) relating to share-based payments for continuing operations. 
of this amount, uS$(0.240) million related to write-back of phantom share provisions (2008: uS$2.299 million expense). 

102

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 29. 

reserves and retained earninGs

Reserves 

Retained earnings 

Minority interests in reserves and retained earnings  

a)  movements in reserves and retained earnings 

Consolidated

year ended 30 June 2008 

opening balance 

Adjustment for AASB 117 leases (Recall uSA) 1 

Actuarial loss on defined benefit plans  

Foreign exchange differences 

Cash flow hedges: 

– fair value losses 

– tax on fair value losses   

– transfers to net profit 

Share-based payments:

– expense recognised during the year 

– shares issued 

– equity component of related tax 

Buy-back of ordinary shares 

Dividends paid 

net profit for the year 

Closing balance 

year ended 30 June 2009

opening balance 

Actuarial loss on defined benefit plans  

FCtR released to profits during the year 

FCtR on entities disposed taken to profit 

Foreign exchange differences 

Cash flow hedges:

– fair value losses 

– tax on fair value losses   

– transfers to net profit 

– tax on transfers to net profit 

Share-based payments:

– expense recognised during the year 

– shares issued 

– equity component of related tax 

Dividends paid 

net profit for the year 

Closing balance 

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

(14,938.7)  (14,671.5)

2,520.1 

2,436.1

(12,418.6)  (12,235.4)

0.3 

0.3

reserves

HedGinG
us$m

sHare-
Based
payments
us$m

foreiGn
CurrenCy
translation
us$m

unifiCation
us$m

otHer
us$m

retained
earninGs
us$m

1.8 

 –  

 –  

0.2 

(3.8) 

1.7 

(0.1) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

61.6 

273.6 

(15,385.8) 

167.3 

2,241.1

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

14.8 

(13.9) 

3.3 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

263.3 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(55.5) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(2.5)

(27.1)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(424.1)

648.7

(0.2) 

65.8 

481.4 

(15,385.8) 

167.3 

2,436.1

(0.2) 

65.8 

481.4 

(15,385.8) 

167.3 

2,436.1

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(27.9) 

9.7 

13.7 

(4.8) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

14.5 

(6.3) 

(2.9) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

(77.3) 

(0.6) 

(185.3) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(3.1)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(365.5)

452.6

(9.5) 

71.1 

218.2 

(15,385.8) 

167.3 

2,520.1

1   During 2008, an adjustment was made to amortise fixed rental increases on operating leases on a straight line basis over the life of the lease. the effect of 

this adjustment was to increase other liabilities by uS$4.1 million, increase deferred tax assets by uS$1.6 million and decrease opening retained earnings by 
uS$2.5 million. 

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

103

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 29. reserves and retained earninGs – ContInueD

b)   movements in reserves and retained earnings 

parent entity

year ended 30 June 2008

opening balance 

Foreign exchange differences 

Share-based payments – shares to be issued 

Buy-back of ordinary shares 

Dividends declared during the year 

net profit for the year 

Closing balance 

year ended 30 June 2009

opening balance 

Foreign exchange differences 

Share-based payments – shares to be issued 

Dividends declared during the year 

net profit for the year 

Closing balance 

reserves

sHare-
Based
payments
us$m

foreiGn
CurrenCy
translation
us$m

retained
earninGs
us$m

11.9 

1,166.8 

255.7

 –  

2,003.1 

12.7 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(55.5) 

 –  

 –  

24.6 

3,114.4 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(424.1)

571.1

402.7

24.6 

3,114.4 

402.7

 –  

(2,718.0) 

2.7 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

27.3 

396.4 

 – 

 – 

(365.5)

347.1

384.3

As a result of unification, Brambles limited is only permitted to declare dividends out of profits generated by it subsequent to 4 December 2006. 

c) nature and purpose of reserves
HeDGInG ReSeRve
this comprises the cumulative portion of the gain or loss of cash flow hedges that are determined to be effective hedges. Amounts are recognised 
in the income statement when the associated hedged transaction is recognised or the hedge or a portion thereof becomes ineffective.

SHARe-BASeD pAYMentS ReSeRve
this comprises the cumulative share-based payment expense recognised in the income statement in relation to equity-settled options and share 
rights issued but not yet exercised. Refer to note 28 for further details.

FoReIGn CuRRenCY tRAnSlAtIon ReSeRve
this comprises cumulative exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries, net of qualifying 
net investment hedges. the relevant accumulated balance is recognised in the income statement on disposal of a foreign subsidiary.

unIFICAtIon ReSeRve
on unification, Brambles limited issued shares on a one-for-one basis to those BIl and BIp shareholders who did not elect to participate in the 
Cash Alternative. the unification reserve of uS$15,385.8 million represents the difference between the Brambles limited share capital measured 
at fair value on 4 December 2006, and the carrying value of the share capital of BIl and BIp at that date.

otHeR
this comprises the merger reserve created at the time of the formation of the DlC, following internal reorganisations within BIp, and the capital 
redemption reserve created in 2006 as a result of the cancellation of BIp shares.

104

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
finanCial risK manaGement 

note 30. 
Brambles is exposed to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including the effect of fluctuations in interest rates and exchange rates), liquidity 
risk and credit risk. 

Brambles' overall risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects 
on the financial performance of Brambles.

Brambles uses standard derivative financial instruments to manage its risk exposure in the normal course of business. Brambles does not trade 
in financial instruments for speculative purposes. Hedging activities are conducted through Brambles' treasury department on a centralised basis 
in accordance with Board policies and guidelines through standard operating procedures and delegated authorities.

policies with respect to financial risk management and hedging activities are discussed below and should be read in conjunction with detailed 
information contained in the Financial Review on pages 16 to 17.

a) fair values
Set out below is a comparison by category of the carrying amounts and fair values of financial instruments recognised in the balance sheet. With 
the exception of loans and receivables and derivatives designated as hedging instruments, all other financial assets are classified as financial 
assets at fair value through profit or loss.

Consolidated

financial assets

– cash at bank and in hand (note 14)    

– short term deposits (note 14)  

– trade receivables (note 15)  

– interest rate swaps (note 17)  

– forward foreign currency contracts (note 17)  

financial liabilities 

– trade payables (note 23)  

– bank overdrafts (note 24)  

– bank loans (note 24)  

– loan notes (note 24)  

– finance lease liabilities (note 24)  

– interest rate swaps (note 17)  

– forward foreign currency contracts (note 17)  

parent entity

financial assets

– cash at bank and in hand (note 14)    

– receivables from subsidiaries (note 15)  

financial liabilities

– payables to subsidiaries (note 23)  

– bank loans (note 24)  

CarryinG amount

fair value

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2009 
us$m 

2008 
us$m 

55.0 

35.1 

62.8 

42.0 

55.0 

35.1 

62.8

42.0

450.1 

524.8 

450.1 

524.8

 –  

1.1 

7.4 

1.3 

 –  

1.1 

7.4

1.3

287.1 

36.0 

341.0 

36.7 

287.1 

36.0 

341.0

36.7

1,645.7 

2,052.2 

1,645.7 

2,052.2

549.9 

439.3 

515.6 

438.2

1.9 

18.1 

0.6 

2.8 

8.5 

0.2 

1.9 

18.1 

0.6 

2.8

8.5

0.2

CarryinG amount

fair value

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2009 
us$m 

2008 
us$m 

2.5 

5.4 

2.5 

5.4

13,428.8 

14,883.6 

13,428.8 

14,883.6

4,603.8 

4,487.4 

4,603.8 

4,487.4

 –  

5.0 

 –  

5.0

For forward foreign exchange contracts, the net fair value is taken to be the unrealised gain or loss at balance date calculated by reference to the 
current forward rates for contracts with similar maturity dates. Fair value for other financial assets and liabilities has been calculated by 
discounting future cash flows at prevailing interest rates for the relevant yield curve. 

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

105

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 30. finanCial risK manaGement – ContInueD

b) market risk
Brambles has the following risk policies in place with respect to market risk.

InteReSt RAte RISK
Brambles' exposure to potential volatility in finance costs, predominantly uS dollars, Australian dollars and euros, is managed by maintaining a mix 
of fixed and floating-rate instruments within select target bands over defined periods. In most cases, interest rate derivatives are used to achieve 
these targets synthetically.

the following table sets out the financial instruments exposed to interest rate risk at reporting date:

financial assets (floating rate)

Cash at bank 

Short term deposits 

Receivables from subsidiaries 

Weighted average effective interest rate 

financial liabilities (floating rate)

Bank overdrafts 

Bank loans 

Interest rate swaps (notional value) 

payables to subsidiaries 

net exposure to cash flow interest rate risk 

Weighted average effective interest rate 

financial liabilities (fixed rate)

loan notes 

Finance lease liabilities 

Interest rate swaps (notional value) 

net exposure to fair value interest rate risk 

Weighted average effective interest rate 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2009 
us$m 

2008 
us$m 

55.0  

35.1  

– 

90.1  

1.0% 

 62.8  

 42.0  

2.5  

– 

 5.4 

–

– 

13,428.8 

 14,883.6 

 104.8   13,431.3 

14,889.0

3.8% 

3.6% 

7.9%

 36.0  

 36.7  

1,645.7  

 2,052.2  

(612.3) 

(738.9) 

– 

– 

– 

–

5.0

–

– 

– 

4,603.8 

4,487.4

 1,069.4  

 1,350.0  

4,603.8 

4,492.4

3.2% 

5.7% 

3.1% 

7.9%

 549.9  

 439.3  

 1.9  

 2.8  

 612.3  

 738.9  

 1,164.1  

 1,181.0  

6.0% 

5.7% 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

interest rate swaps – cash flow hedges
Brambles enters into various interest rate risk management transactions for the purpose of managing finance costs to achieve more stable and 
predictable finance expense results. the instruments primarily used are interest rate swaps and caps. 

During 2009, Brambles entered into or maintained interest rate swap transactions with various banks hedging variable rate borrowings in uS and 
Australian dollars. the purpose of the interest rate swaps was to hedge variable interest expense under borrowings against rising interest rates. 
Interest rate swaps achieve this by synthetically converting the variable interest rate payment into a fixed interest liability on the dates on which 
interest is payable on the underlying debt. the fair value of these contracts at reporting date was uS$(18.1) million (2008: uS$(1.1) million).

the terms of the contracts have been negotiated to match the projected drawdowns and rollovers of variable rate bank debt.

the gain or loss from re-measuring the interest rate swaps at fair value is deferred and recognised in the hedging reserve in equity, to the extent 
that the hedge is effective, and reclassified into profit and loss when the hedged interest expense is recognised. Any ineffective portion is charged 
to the income statement. For 2009 and 2008, all interest rate swaps were effective hedging instruments.

106

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
sensitivity analysis
the following table sets out the sensitivity of Brambles' financial assets and financial liabilities to interest rate risk applying the following 
assumptions:

Consolidated

uS dollar interest rates 

Australian dollar interest rates 

Sterling interest rates 

euro interest rates 

Impact on profit after tax 

Impact on equity 

interest rate risK

 2009

 2008

lower 
rates

HiGHer 
rates

lower 
rates

HiGHer 
rates

- 25 bps 

+ 50 bps 

- 150 bps  + 150 bps

- 50 bps 

+ 50 bps 

- 100 bps  + 100 bps

- 25 bps 

+ 50 bps 

- 75 bps 

+ 75 bps

- 25 bps 

+ 50 bps 

- 50 bps 

+ 50 bps

us$m

us$m

us$m

us$m

2.0 

(0.3) 

(5.4) 

0.7 

10.2 

(6.3) 

(10.2)

5.7

Based on financial instruments held at 30 June 2009, if interest rates were to parallel shift by the number of basis points in the different 
currencies noted above with all other variables held constant, profit after tax for the year would have been uS$2.0 million higher or uS$5.4 million 
lower (2008: uS$10.2 million higher/lower), mainly as a result of lower/higher interest expense on bank borrowings. the impact on equity would 
have been uS$0.3 million lower or uS$0.7 million higher (2008: uS$6.3 million lower or uS$5.7 million higher) mainly as a result of the incremental 
movement through the hedging reserve relating to the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Given its geographically diverse operations, Brambles 
has interest rate exposure positions against a variety of currencies, but predominantly uS dollars, Australian dollars and euros.  

parent entity

interest rate risK

 2009

 2008

lower 
rates

HiGHer 
rates

lower 
rates

HiGHer 
rates

Australian dollar interest rates 

- 50 bps 

+ 50 bps 

- 100 bps 

+100 bps

Impact on profit after tax 

Impact on equity 

us$m

us$m

us$m

us$m

(32.4) 

32.4 

(72.8) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

72.8

 – 

Based on financial instruments held at 30 June 2009, if interest rates were to parallel shift by -/+ 50 basis points with all other variables held 
constant, profit after tax for the year for the parent entity would have been uS$32.4 million lower/higher (2008: uS$72.8 million lower/higher), 
mainly as a result of lower/higher interest income/(expense) on interest bearing loans to/from subsidiaries. the intercompany loans to/from the 
parent entity are denominated in Australian dollars.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

107

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 30. finanCial risK manaGement – ContInueD

b) market risk – continued
FoReIGn exCHAnGe RISK
exposure to foreign exchange risk generally arises in transactions affecting either the value of transactions translated back to the functional 
currency of a subsidiary or affecting the value of assets and liabilities of overseas subsidiaries when translated back to the Group's reporting 
currency. Foreign exchange hedging is used when a transaction exposure exceeds certain thresholds and as soon as a defined exposure arises. 

Currency profile
the following table sets out the currency mix profile of Brambles' financial instruments at reporting date:

Consolidated

2009

financial assets

– cash at bank and in hand 

– short term deposits 

– forward foreign currency contracts   

financial liabilities

– bank overdrafts 

– bank loans 

– loan notes 

– finance lease liabilities   

– interest rate swaps 

– forward foreign currency contracts   

– net investment hedge 

2008

financial assets

– cash at bank and in hand 

– short term deposits 

– interest rate swaps 

– forward foreign currency contracts   

financial liabilities

– bank overdrafts 

– bank loans 

– loan notes 

– finance lease liabilities   

– interest rate swaps 

– forward foreign currency contracts   

– net investment hedge 

us
dollar
us$m

aust.
dollar
us$m

sterlinG
us$m

euro
us$m

otHer
us$m

total
us$m

2.8 

 –  

3.4 

6.2 

2.3 

12.2 

129.2 

143.7 

 –  

 –  

48.8 

48.8 

 –  

 –  

8.2 

894.3 

549.9 

0.7 

16.6 

101.0 

 –  

161.0 

 –  

 –  

1.5 

1.9 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

3.1 

 –  

8.6 

2.8 

7.2 

18.6 

22.8 

397.3 

 –  

1.0 

 –  

48.3 

71.2 

41.3 

20.1 

1.3 

62.7 

55.0

35.1

189.9

280.0

5.0 

36.0

121.9 

1,574.5

 –  

0.2 

 –  

35.1 

 –  

549.9

1.9

18.1

189.4

71.2

1,562.5 

164.4 

11.3 

540.6 

162.2 

2,441.0

11.7 

 –  

3.4 

1.8 

16.9 

10.3 

 –  

4.0 

191.6 

205.9 

 –  

 –  

1,015.4 

768.1 

439.3 

0.5 

8.5 

101.1 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

5.3 

 –  

1,564.8 

773.4 

 –  

 –  

 –  

0.6 

0.6 

15.9 

20.0 

 –  

 –  

 –  

39.6 

 –  

75.5 

17.1 

2.1 

 –  

42.2 

61.4 

17.0 

2.1 

 –  

1.8 

 –  

0.1 

79.8 

23.7 

39.9 

 –  

5.5 

69.1 

62.8

42.0

7.4

241.7

353.9

3.8 

36.7

166.8 

1,972.4

 –  

0.5 

 –  

94.5 

 –  

439.3

2.8

8.5

240.6

79.8

100.8 

265.6 

2,780.1

parent entity

the parent entity's financial instruments are all denominated in Australian dollars.

108

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
forward foreign exchange contracts – cash flow hedges
Brambles enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge currency exposures arising from normal commercial transactions such as the 
purchase and sale of equipment and services, intercompany interest and royalties.

During 2009, Brambles entered into forward foreign exchange transactions with various banks in a variety of cross-currencies for terms ranging 
up to six months. Most contracts create an obligation on Brambles to take receipt of or deliver a foreign currency which is used to fulfil the 
foreign currency sale or purchase order.

the gain or loss from re-measuring the foreign exchange contracts at fair value is deferred and recognised in the hedging reserve in equity to the 
extent that the hedge is effective and reclassified into profit and loss when the hedged item is recognised. Any ineffective portion is charged to 
the income statement. For 2009 and 2008, all foreign exchange contracts were effective hedging instruments.

Foreign exchange contracts are fair valued by comparing the contracted rate to the current market rate for a contract with the same remaining 
period to maturity. the fair value of these contracts at reporting date was uS$(0.5) million (2008: uS$0.1 million).

forward foreign exchange contracts – held for trading
Brambles enters into forward foreign exchange contracts for the purpose of hedging various cross-border intercompany loans to overseas 
subsidiaries. In this case, the forward foreign exchange contract provides an economic hedge against exchange fluctuations in the foreign 
currency loan balance. the face value and terms of the foreign exchange contracts match the intercompany loan balances. Gains and losses 
on realignment of the intercompany loan and foreign exchange contracts to spot rates are offset in the income statement. Consequently, these 
foreign exchange contracts are not designated for hedge accounting purposes. 

these contracts are fair valued by comparing the contracted rate to the current market rate for a contract with the same remaining period to 
maturity. Any changes in fair values are taken to the income statement immediately. the fair value of these contracts at reporting date was 
uS$1.0 million (2008: uS$1.0 million).

Hedge of net investment in foreign entity
Included in bank loans at 30 June 2009 is a borrowing of uS$71.2 million (2008: uS$79.8 million) denominated in euros. this loan has been 
designated as a hedge of the net investment in Brambles’ european subsidiaries and is being used to partially hedge Brambles’ exposure to 
foreign exchange risks on these investments. For 2009 and 2008, there was no ineffectiveness to be recorded from such partial hedges of net 
investments in foreign entities.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

109

nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 30. finanCial risK manaGement – ContInueD

b) market risk – continued

sensitivity analysis
the following table sets out the sensitivity of Brambles' financial assets and financial liabilities to foreign exchange risk (transaction 
exposures only):

Consolidated

exchange rate movement  

Impact on profit after tax 

Impact on equity 

foreiGn exCHanGe risK

2009

2008

lower 
rates

HiGHer 
rates

lower 
rates

HiGHer 
rates

-10% 

+10% 

-10% 

+10%

us$m

us$m

us$m

us$m

3.2 

(5.0) 

(3.2) 

5.0 

1.6 

(5.6) 

(1.3)

5.6

Based on the financial instruments held at 30 June 2009, if exchange rates were to weaken/strengthen by 10% with all other variables held 
constant, profit after tax for the year would have been uS$3.2 million higher/lower (2008: uS$1.6 million higher or uS$1.3 million lower). 
the impact on equity would have been uS$5.0 million lower/higher (2008: uS$5.6 million lower/higher) as a result of the incremental movement 
through the foreign currency translation reserve relating to the effective portion of a net investment hedge. 

parent entity
the sensitivity of the parent entity's financial assets and financial liabilities to foreign exchange risk (transaction exposures only) on profit after 
tax and equity is not considered material. 

110

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c) liquidity risk
Brambles' objective is to maintain adequate liquidity to meet its financial obligations as and when they fall due. Brambles funds its operations 
through existing equity, retained cash flow and borrowings, principally from bank credit facilities. the credit facilities are generally structured 
on a committed multi-currency revolving basis. Maturities range out to December 2013. Borrowings under the facilities are floating-rate, 
unsecured obligations with covenants and undertakings typical for these types of arrangements. to minimise foreign exchange risks, borrowings 
are arranged in the currency of the relevant operating asset to be funded. Brambles also has access to further funding through overdrafts, 
uncommitted and standby lines of credit, principally to manage day-to-day liquidity.

Refer to note 24a for borrowing facilities and credit standby arrangements disclosures.

maturities of derivative financial assets and liabilities
the maturity of Brambles' contractual cash flows on net and gross settled derivative financial instruments, based on the remaining period to 
contractual maturity date, is presented below. Cash flows on interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts are discounted based 
on forward interest rates applicable at reporting date.

Consolidated

year 1
us$m

year 2
us$m

year 3
us$m

year 4
us$m

over 4
years
us$m

total
ContraCtual
CasH flows
us$m

CarryinG 
amount 
assets/
(liaBilities)
us$m

2009

net settled

Interest rate swaps 

Gross settled

Forward foreign exchange contracts

– inflow 

– (outflow) 

2008

net settled

Interest rate swaps 

Gross settled

Forward foreign exchange contracts

– inflow 

– (outflow) 

(12.3) 

(4.4) 

(1.1) 

(0.3) 

– 

(18.1) 

(18.1)

189.9 

(189.4) 

(11.8) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(4.4) 

(1.1) 

(0.3) 

– 

– 

– 

189.9 

(189.4) 

0.5

–

(17.6) 

(17.6)

(2.6) 

(0.9) 

0.3 

1.4 

0.7 

(1.1) 

(1.1)

241.7 

(240.6) 

– 

– 

(1.5) 

(0.9) 

– 

– 

0.3 

– 

– 

1.4 

– 

– 

0.7 

241.7 

(240.6) 

 –  

1.1

–

 – 

parent entity
no derivative financial assets or liabilities are held by the parent entity.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

111

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 30. finanCial risK manaGement – ContInueD

c) liquidity risk – continued

maturities of non-derivative financial liabilities
the maturity of Brambles' contractual cash flows on non-derivative financial liabilities, based on the remaining period to contractual maturity 
date, is presented below. Refer to note 24b for borrowing facilities maturity profile.

Consolidated

year 1
us$m

year 2
us$m

year 3
us$m

year 4
us$m

over 4
years
us$m

total
ContraCtual
CasH flows
us$m

CarryinG 
amount 
us$m

2009

financial liabilities 

trade payables 

Bank overdrafts 

Bank loans 

loan notes 

Finance lease liabilities 

2008

financial liabilities 

trade payables 

Bank overdrafts 

Bank loans 

loan notes 

Finance lease liabilities 

287.1 

36.0 

78.2 

47.5 

0.6 

 –  

 –  

391.6 

32.5 

0.9 

– 

– 

434.7 

195.1 

0.5 

– 

– 

– 

– 

287.1 

36.0 

287.1

36.0

411.4 

546.2 

1,862.1 

1,645.7

23.3 

0.1 

414.7 

713.1 

549.9

– 

2.1 

1.9

449.4 

425.0 

630.3 

434.8 

960.9 

2,900.4 

2,520.6

341.0 

36.7 

151.9 

38.3 

0.8 

 –  

 –  

– 

– 

114.0 

1,958.7 

24.0 

1.0 

24.0 

0.6 

– 

– 

5.4 

186.6 

0.4 

– 

– 

102.8 

296.3 

– 

341.0 

36.7 

341.0

36.7

2,332.8 

2,052.2

569.2 

2.8 

439.3

2.8

568.7 

139.0 

1,983.3 

192.4 

399.1 

3,282.5 

2,872.0

the maturity of the parent entity's contractual cash flows on non-derivative financial liabilities, based on the remaining period to contractual 
maturity date, is presented below.

parent entity

year 1
us$m

year 2
us$m

year 3
us$m

year 4
us$m

over 4
years
us$m

total
ContraCtual
CasH flows
us$m

CarryinG 
amount 
us$m

2009

financial liabilities

payables to subsidiaries 

2008

financial liabilities

payables to subsidiaries 

Bank loans 

 –  

 –  

 –  

4,603.8 

 –  

4,603.8 

4,603.8

 –  

 –  

4,487.4 

 –  

 –  

5.0 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

4,487.4 

4,487.4

5.0 

5.0

112

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
d) Credit risk exposure
Brambles is exposed to credit risk on its financial assets, which comprise cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables and derivative 
financial instruments. this exposure to credit risks arises from the potential failure of counterparties to meet their obligations. the maximum 
exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying amount of the financial instruments as set out in note 30a. there is no significant 
concentration of credit risk.

Brambles trades only with recognised, creditworthy third parties. Collateral is generally not obtained from customers.

Customers are subject to credit verification procedures including an assessment of their independent credit rating, financial position, past 
experience and industry reputation. Credit limits are set for each individual customer and approved by the credit manager in accordance with 
an approved authority matrix. these credit limits are regularly monitored and revised based on historic turnover activity and credit performance. 
In addition, overdue receivable balances are monitored and actioned on a regular basis.

exposure to credit risk also arises from amounts receivable from unrealised gains on derivative financial instruments. At the reporting date, this 
amount was uS$1.1 million (2008: uS$8.7 million). Brambles transacts derivatives with prominent financial institutions and has credit limits in 
place to limit exposure to any potential non-performance by its counterparties.

e) Capital risk management
Brambles’ objective when managing capital is to ensure Brambles continues as a going concern as well as to provide a balance between financial 
flexibility and balance sheet efficiency. In determining its capital structure, Brambles considers the robustness of future cash flows, potential 
funding requirements for growth opportunities and acquisitions, the cost of capital and ease of access to funding sources.

Brambles manages its capital structure to be consistent with a solid investment grade credit. Initiatives available to Brambles to achieve its 
desired capital structure include adjusting the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, returning capital to shareholders, buying-back share 
capital, issuing new shares, selling assets to reduce debt and varying the maturity profile of its borrowings.

Brambles considers its capital to comprise:

total borrowings 

less: cash and cash equivalents 

net debt 

total equity 

total capital 

Consolidated

parent entity

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2009 
us$m 

2008 
us$m 

2,233.5 

2,531.0 

90.1 

104.8 

– 

2.5 

5.0

5.4

2,143.4 

2,426.2 

(2.5) 

(0.4)

1,429.3 

1,543.5 

14,655.6 

17,320.3

3,572.7 

3,969.7 

14,653.1 

17,319.9

under the terms of its major borrowing facilities, Brambles is required to comply with the following financial covenants:
 —
 —

the ratio of net debt to eBItDA is to be no more than 3.5 to 1; and
the ratio of eBItDA to net finance costs is to be no less than 3.5 to 1.

the following definitions apply in the calculation of these financial covenants:
 —

eBItDA means Brambles’ consolidated operating profit (excluding Significant items outside the ordinary course of business) before 
depreciation, amortisation, impairment, profit of joint ventures and associates and certain fair value adjustments in respect of financial 
derivatives; and
net debt means Brambles' consolidated total borrowings, excluding the impact of fair value adjustments in relation to hedge accounting, 
less cash and cash equivalents.

 —

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

113

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 30. finanCial risK manaGement – ContInueD

e) Capital risk management – continued
Brambles has complied with these financial covenants for 2009 and prior years. At balance date, under these definitions, the ratios were:

total borrowings 

less: cash and cash equivalents 

net debt 

eBItDA 

net finance costs 

net debt/eBItDA (times)  

eBItDA/net finance cost (times) 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2,233.5 

2,531.0

90.1 

104.8

2,143.4 

2,426.2

1,207.6 

1,493.1

120.9 

149.5

1.8 

10.0 

1.6

10.0

114

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 31. 

CasH flow statement – additional information

a) reconciliation of cash

For the purpose of the cash flow statement, cash comprises:

Cash at bank and in hand (note 14) 

Short term deposits (note 14) 

Bank overdraft (note 24)  

Consolidated

parent entity

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

55.0 

35.1 

(36.0) 

54.1 

62.8 

42.0 

(36.7) 

68.1 

2.5 

 –  

 –  

2.5 

5.4

 – 

 – 

5.4

b) reconciliation of profit after tax to net cash flows from operating activities
profit after tax 

452.6 

648.7 

347.1 

571.1

Adjustments for:

– depreciation and amortisation 

– irrecoverable pooling equipment provision expense 

– net gains on disposals of property, plant and equipment  

– impairment of pooling equipment 

– foreign exchange gain on capital repatriation 

– other valuation adjustments 

– net gains on disposal of businesses and investments 

– net gains after tax on completed disposals of discontinued operations  

– joint ventures 

– equity-settled share-based payments  

– finance revenues and costs 

Movements in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and disposals:

– decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables 

– (increase)/decrease in prepayments  

– decrease/(increase) in inventories 

– decrease in deferred tax 

– decrease in trade and other payables  

– (decrease)/increase in tax payables   

– increase/(decrease) in provisions 

– other 

424.6 

97.8 

(11.9) 

33.6 

(77.3) 

(1.9) 

(0.6) 

(17.0) 

2.1 

14.5 

(3.0) 

56.3 

(6.0) 

7.3 

49.7 

(31.9) 

(19.0) 

53.5 

(0.4) 

458.6 

91.2 

(46.4) 

 –  

 –  

(1.0) 

(1.2) 

(2.6) 

(0.6) 

14.8 

12.7 

35.9 

1.9 

(9.7) 

39.3 

(2.1) 

(38.8) 

(30.3) 

(4.1) 

 –  

 –  

 –  

– 

– 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

–

–

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(495.7) 

(813.2)

0.5 

(0.5)

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

17.2 

 –  

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

(2.4)

 – 

(4.0)

net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities  

1,023.0 

1,166.3 

(130.9) 

(249.0)

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

115

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 31. CasH flow statement – additional information – ContInueD

c) reconciliation of movement in net debt

net debt at beginning of the year 

net cash inflow from operating activities 

net cash outflow from investing activities 

net outflow/(inflow) from hedge borrowings 

proceeds from issue of ordinary shares 

Buy-back of ordinary shares 

Dividends paid, net of Dividend Reinvestment plan 

Increase on business acquisitions and disposals 

Interest accruals, finance leases and other 

Foreign exchange differences 

net debt at end of the year 

Being:

Current borrowings 

non-current borrowings 

Cash and cash equivalents 

net debt at end of the year 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2,426.2 

1,996.9

(1,023.0) 

(1,166.3)

606.6 

7.9 

(0.8) 

 –  

277.6 

–  

(7.5) 

(143.6) 

811.4

(95.1)

(38.5)

392.0

444.8

0.3

3.1

77.6

2,143.4 

2,426.2

68.0 

91.5

2,165.5 

2,439.5

(90.1) 

(104.8)

2,143.4 

2,426.2

d) non-cash financing or investing activities
As shown in note 27, dividends of uS$61.9 million were satisfied by the issue of shares under the Dividend Reinvestment plan. there were no other 
financing or investing transactions during the year which have had a material effect on the assets and liabilities of Brambles that did not involve 
cash flows.

116

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
note 32. 

Commitments

a) Capital expenditure commitments
At 30 June 2009, Brambles' continuing operations had commitments of uS$29.2 million (2008: uS$66.3 million) principally relating to property, 
plant and equipment. 

Capital expenditure in respect of continuing operations contracted for but not recognised as liabilities at reporting date were as follows:

Within one year 

Between one and five years 

Consolidated

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

29.2 

–  

29.2 

40.7

25.6

66.3

b) operating lease commitments
Brambles' continuing operations are party to operating leases for offices, operational locations and plant and equipment. the leases have varying 
terms, escalation clauses and renewal rights. escalation clauses are rare and any impact is considered immaterial. 

the future minimum lease payments under such non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:

Within one year 

Between one and five years 

After five years 

Minimum lease payments  

Consolidated

plant

oCCupanCy

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

2009
us$m

33.1 

59.5 

4.3 

96.9 

31.7 

50.8 

1.0 

83.5 

140.4 

464.1 

363.7 

968.2 

2008
us$m

148.4

512.5

453.4

1,114.3

During the year, operating lease expense of uS$147.2 million (2008: uS$102.8 million) was recognised within underlying profit in the income 
statement. In addition, storage costs of uS$37.8 million were recognised as part of the CHep uSA restructuring costs described in note 6.

c) finance lease commitments
Finance leases of plant and equipment are not a material feature of Brambles' funding arrangements.

Finance lease commitments of Brambles' continuing operations are payable as follows:

Within one year 

Between one and five years 

Minimum lease payments recognised as a liability 

Consolidated

plant

2009
us$m

2008
us$m

0.5 

1.4 

1.9 

0.8

2.0

2.8

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

117

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

ContinGenCies

note 33. 
a)  Brambles limited and certain of its subsidiaries are parties to a deed of cross-guarantee which supports global financing credit facilities 
available to certain Brambles’ subsidiaries. total facilities available amount to uS$2,826.6 million (2008: uS$3,616.4 million) of which 
uS$1,640.9 million (2008: uS$2,008.1 million) has been drawn.

Brambles limited and certain of its subsidiaries are parties to guarantees which support uS private placement borrowings of 
uS$535.0 million (2008: uS$425.0 million) by a subsidiary.

Brambles limited has guaranteed repayment of certain facilities and financial accommodations made available to certain Brambles’ 
subsidiaries. total facilities available amount to uS$315.9 million (2008: uS$398.5 million), of which uS$98.8 million (2008: uS$148.4 million) 
has been drawn.

b)  Subsidiaries of Brambles limited have contingent unsecured liabilities in respect of guarantees given relating to performance under 
contracts entered into totalling uS$83.8 million (2008: uS$122.2 million), of which uS$79.4 million (2008: uS$117.8 million) is also 
guaranteed by Brambles limited and is included in (a) above. 

c)  A subsidiary has provided guarantees on a several basis in relation to a reduction in the share premium account of a subsidiary of Brambles 

in favour of certain creditors which amounts to uS$5.4 million (2008: uS$9.8 million).

d)  Subsidiaries have guaranteed the lease obligations of third parties totalling uS$21.7 million (2008: uS$31.8 million). A subsidiary of 

Brambles limited has provided guarantees to support lease facilities entered into by certain Brambles’ subsidiaries. total facilities available 
amount to uS$13.9 million (2008: uS$22.3 million), of which uS$13.9 million (2008: uS$22.3 million) has been drawn.

e)  environmental contingent liabilities

Brambles’ activities have included the treatment and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste through subsidiaries and corporate 
joint ventures. In addition, other activities of Brambles entail using, handling and storing materials which are capable of causing 
environmental impairment.

As a consequence of the nature of these activities, Brambles has incurred and may continue to incur environmental costs and liabilities 
associated with site and facility operation, closure, remediation, aftercare, monitoring and licensing. provisions have been made in respect 
of estimated environmental liabilities at all sites and facilities where obligations are known to exist and can be reliably measured.

However, additional liabilities may emerge due to a number of factors including changes in the numerous laws and regulations which govern 
environmental protection, liability, land use, planning and other matters in each jurisdiction in which Brambles operates or has operated. 
these extensive laws and regulations are continually evolving in response to technological advances, scientific developments and other 
factors. Brambles cannot predict the extent to which it may be affected in the future by any such changes in legislation or regulation.

f)  In the ordinary course of business, Brambles becomes involved in litigation, most of which falls within Brambles’ insurance arrangements. 

provision has been made for known obligations where the existence of the liability is probable and can be reasonably quantified. Receivables 
have been recognised where recoveries, for example from insurance arrangements, are virtually certain. As the outcomes of these matters 
remain uncertain, contingent liabilities exist for possible amounts eventually payable that are in excess of the amounts provided.

g)  Brambles has given vendor warranties in relation to businesses sold in 2009 and prior years. Brambles has recognised the financial impact of 

such vendor warranties and adjustments on the basis of information currently available. A contingent liability exists for any amounts which 
may ultimately be borne by Brambles which are in excess of the amounts provided at 30 June 2009. 

118

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
note 34. 

auditors' remuneration

pricewaterhouseCoopers (pwC) earned the following remuneration 

from Brambles during the year:

Amounts received or due and receivable by pwC (Australia) for:

Audit services: 

– audit and review of Brambles' financial reports 

– other assurance services 

other services:

– tax advisory services 

– other 

total remuneration of pwC (Australia)  

Amounts received or due and receivable by related practices of pwC (Australia) for:

Audit services:

– audit and review of Brambles' financial reports 

– other assurance services 

other services:

– tax advisory services 

– acquisition due diligence 

total remuneration of related practices of pwC (Australia)  

Consolidated

parent entity

2009
us$'000

2008
us$'000

2009
us$'000

2008
us$'000

1,252 

1,650 

31 

96 

1,283 

1,746 

37 

22 

59 

258 

 –  

258 

1,342 

2,004 

3,209 

4,175 

6 

4 

3,215 

4,179 

51 

 –  

51 

73 

133 

206 

3,266 

4,385 

30 

 –  

30 

 –  

 –  

– 

30 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

30

 – 

30

 – 

 – 

–

30

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

total auditors' remuneration  

4,608 

6,389 

30 

30

From time to time, Brambles employs pwC on assignments additional to their statutory audit duties where pwC, through their detailed knowledge 
of the Group, are best placed to perform the services from an efficiency, effectiveness and cost perspective. the performance of such non-audit 
related services is always balanced with the fundamental objective of ensuring pwC's objectivity and independence as auditors. to ensure this 
balance, the Audit Committee has established a policy whereby its prior approval is required wherever management recommends that pwC 
undertake non-audit work. Management consultancy, It implementation and specialist internal audit work will not be performed by pwC. 

In 2009 and 2008, non-audit assignments primarily related to tax consulting advice, acquisition due diligence and other services.

Auditors' remuneration for the parent entity relates to the audit of the parent entity accounts. Auditors' remuneration in relation to the 
consolidated accounts is borne by a subsidiary.

note 35. 

Key manaGement personnel

a) Key management personnel compensation

Short term employee benefits 

post employment benefits 

other benefits 

termination/sign-on/retirement benefits 

Share-based payments 

Consolidated

2009
us$'000

2008
us$'000

7,722 

8,961

397 

64 

631 

257

30

574

4,895 

3,054

13,709 

12,876

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

119

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 35. Key manaGement personnel – ContInueD

b) equity instruments disclosure relating to key management personnel
the number of ordinary shares, options, performance share rights and MyShare matching conditional rights in Brambles held during the financial 
year by each key management personnel, including their related parties, are set out below:

BalanCe 
at start 
of tHe year

Granted
durinG tHe
year

exerCised
durinG 
tHe year

lapsed
durinG 
tHe year

CHanGes
durinG 
tHe year

BalanCe
at end 
of tHe year

vested and 
exerCisaBle
at end 
of tHe year

name and HoldinGs

2009
executive directors

m f ihlein

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

MyShare matching conditional rights 

m e doherty

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

MyShare matching conditional rights 

Current Key management personnel

t J Gorman

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

MyShare matching conditional rights 

J r a Judd

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

e e potts

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

K J shuba

ordinary shares 

options 

Share rights 

MyShare matching conditional rights 

n p smith

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

MyShare matching conditional rights 

C a van der laan

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

former senior executive

C m norin

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

MyShare matching conditional rights 

–  

151 

MyShare matching conditional rights 

 –  

253 

646,470 

 –  

 –  

 –  

137,054 

783,524 

602,526 

461,084 

136,762 

117,406 

 –  

 –  

292 

 –  

28,406 

217,896 

–  

151 

 –  

 –  

36,365 

183,078 

–  

245 

69,654 

 –  

– 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

– 

– 

809,442 

292 

10,151 

10,151 

 –  

 –  

246,302 

151 

245 

245 

 –  

 –  

219,443 

245 

 –  

 –  

209,853 

253 

253 

28,033 

 –  

 –  

 –  

292 

 –  

 –  

253 

292 

97,171 

292 

– 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

142,669 

93,496 

30,785 

28,085 

 –  

(19,064) 

50,590 

 –  

 –  

177,295 

151 

45,000 

 –  

 –  

5,689 

50,689 

166,236 

90,673 

25,436 

21,620 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

27,780 

104,010 

 –  

 –  

140,509 

133,579 

23,746 

20,184 

104,010 

104,010

230,158 

21,198

–  

 –  

 –  

–  

253 

 –  

97,171 

292 

130,862 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

(115,862) 

15,000 

371,060 

188,344 

64,490 

52,252 

 –  

442,662 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

115 

115 

164,292 

78,181 

35,826 

90,324 

 –  

 –  

116,323 

58,485

 –  

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

MyShare matching conditional rights 

–  

70 

70 

 –  

120

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
name and HoldinGs

2008
executive directors

m f ihlein

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

m e doherty

Share rights 

former executive director

d mezzanotte

ordinary shares 

options 

Share rights 

Current Key management personnel

t J Gorman

Share rights 

J r a Judd

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

e e potts

ordinary shares 

options 

Share rights 

K J shuba

ordinary shares 

options 

Share rights 

n p smith

ordinary shares 

Share rights 

C a van der laan 

ordinary shares 

options 

Share rights 

other senior executives

m d'Cotta Carreras

options 

Share rights 

m d lamb

ordinary shares 

options 

Share rights 

BalanCe 
at start 
of tHe year

Granted
durinG tHe
year

exerCised
durinG 
tHe year

lapsed
durinG 
tHe year

CHanGes
durinG 
tHe year

BalanCe
at end 
of tHe year

vested and 
exerCisaBle
at end 
of tHe year

127,000 

 –  

 –  

952,389 

169,607 

519,470 

 –  

28,406 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

519,470 

646,470 

 –  

602,526 

 –  

28,406 

358,402 

109,976 

508,895 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

109,976 

149,934 

51,527 

 –  

149,934 

508,336 

 –  

 –  

 –  

307,434 

 –  

36,365 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

36,365 

 –  

69,654 

69,654 

173,295 

41,200 

69,654 

2,172 

 –  

142,669 

27,000 

48,108 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

133,396 

82,116 

48,136 

 –  

18,000 

45,000 

48,108 

1,140 

 –  

 –  

 –  

166,236 

 –  

151,806 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

148,502 

37,919 

44,780 

 –  

 –  

787,488 

156,412 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

27,780 

27,780 

104,010 

104,010

140,509 

21,198

47,796 

1,132 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

316,336 

170,032 

112,110 

3,198 

158,502 

 –  

126,316 

32,186 

219,564 

50,135 

85,888 

762 

 –  

(656,626) 

130,862 

156,412 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

371,060 

 –  

183,049 

31,894 

98,160 

 –  

 –  

 –  

 –  

165,815 

40,152 

59,176 

 –  

61,673 

93,567 

98,160 

2,007 

 –  

 –  

 –  

144,784 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

c) other transactions with key management personnel
other transactions with key management personnel are set out in note 36d.

Further remuneration disclosures are set out in the Directors' Report on pages 35 to 48 of the Annual Report. 

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

121

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 36. 

related party information

a) Brambles
Brambles comprises Brambles limited and the entities which it controls. 

Borrowings under the bilateral bank credit facilities are undertaken by a limited number of Brambles subsidiaries. Funding of other subsidiaries 
within Brambles is by way of intercompany loans, all of which are documented and carry commercial interest rates applicable to the currency 
and terms of the loans.

the global financing credit facilities are supported by a deed of cross guarantee for which Brambles limited charges Brambles’ borrowers a 
commercially determined guarantee fee. 

Dividends are declared within the group only as required for funding or other commercial reasons.

Brambles also has in place cost sharing agreements to ensure that relevant costs are taken up by the entities receiving the benefits.

All amounts receivable and payable by entities within Brambles and any interest thereon are eliminated on consolidation.

122

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

b) material subsidiaries 
the principal subsidiaries of Brambles during the year were:

name

CHep

CHep uSA 

CHep Canada, Inc. 

CHep uK limited 

CHep France SA 

CHep Deutschland GmbH 

CHep espana SA 

CHep Mexico SA de Cv 

plaCe of inCorporation

uSA 

Canada 

uK 

France 

Germany 

Spain 

Mexico 

CHep Benelux nederland Bv 

 the netherlands 

CHep Italia SRl 

Brambles enterprises limited 

Italy 

uK 

CHep South Africa (proprietary) limited 

 South Africa 

CHep Australia limited 

CHep (Shanghai) Company limited 

CHep technology pty limited 

CHep India pvt limited 

leanlogistics Inc 

recall

Recall limited 

Recall France SA 

Recall Corporation, Inc. 

Recall do Brasil ltda 

AuSDoC Holdings pty limited 

Australia 

China 

Australia 

India 

uSA 

uK 

France 

uSA 

Brazil 

Australia 

Recall Information Management pty limited 

Australia 

Recall Deutschland GmbH  

Germany 

Brambles Hq

Brambles Industries limited 

Brambles Holdings (uK) limited 

Australia 

uK 

Brambles International Finance Bv 

 the netherlands 

Brambles uSA Inc. 

Brambles north America Incorporated  

Brambles Finance plc 

Brambles Finance limited 

uSA 

uSA 

uK 

Australia 

% interest Held
at reportinG date

2009

2008

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

In addition to the list above, there are a number of other subsidiaries within Brambles which are mostly intermediary holding companies 
or are dormant.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

123

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO and FOrming part OF thE 
FinanCiaL statEmEnts – CONTINUED

 ▶

for tHe year ended 30 June 2009

note 36. related party information – ContInueD
para 264(b) of the German trade law grants an exemption from the requirement to prepare individual audited statutory financial statements and 
management reports for those German companies which are included within the consolidated group financial statements. Relief from such 
German statutory reporting requirements will be taken in respect of Recall Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG as this entity is consolidated within 
these Brambles’ financial statements.

Investments in subsidiaries are primarily by means of ordinary or common shares. All subsidiaries prepare accounts with a 30 June balance date.

c) Joint ventures
Brambles’ share of the net results of joint ventures is disclosed in note 19.

d) other transactions
other transactions entered into during the year with Directors of Brambles limited; with Director-related entities; with key management 
personnel (KMp, as set out in the Directors’ Report); or with KMp-related entities were on terms and conditions no more favourable than those 
available to other employees, customers or suppliers and include transactions in respect of the employee option plans, contracts of employment 
and reimbursement of expenses. Any other transactions were trivial or domestic in nature. 

e) other related parties
A subsidiary has a non-interest bearing advance outstanding as at 30 June 2009 of uS$1.099 million (2008: uS$1.297 million) to Brambles 
Custodians pty limited, the trustee under Brambles’ employee loan scheme. the advance is administered by Brambles Custodians pty limited 
and enabled employees to acquire shares in BIl prior to unification, pursuant to the terms and conditions of the employee loan scheme approved 
by shareholders.

124

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

f) directors’ indemnities
under its constitution, to the extent permitted by law, Brambles limited indemnifies each person who is, or has been a Director or Secretary of 
Brambles limited against any liability which results from facts or circumstances relating to the person serving or having served in the capacity 
of Director, Secretary, other officer or employee of Brambles limited or any of its subsidiaries, other than:

(aa) in respect of a liability other than for legal costs:

(i)  a liability owed to Brambles limited or a related body corporate;
(ii)  a liability for a pecuniary penalty order under section 1317G of the Act or a compensation order under section 1317H of the Act; or
(iii) a liability that is owed to someone (other than Brambles limited or a related body corporate) and did not arise out of conduct in good 

faith; and

(bb) in respect of a liability for legal costs:

(i) 

in defending or resisting proceedings in which the person is found to have a liability for which they could not have been indemnified under 
paragraph (aa)(i) above;

(ii)  in defending or resisting criminal proceedings in which the person is found guilty;
(iii) in defending or resisting proceedings brought by ASIC or a liquidator for a court order if the grounds for making the order are found 

by the Court to be established; or

(iv) in connection with proceedings for relief to any persons under the Act in which the Court denies the relief.

paragraph (bb)(iii) above does not apply to costs incurred in responding to actions brought by ASIC or a liquidator as part of an investigation 
before commencing proceedings for the Court order.

As allowed by its constitution, Brambles limited has provided indemnities from time to time to Directors, Secretaries or other Statutory officers 
of its subsidiaries (Beneficiaries) against all loss, cost and expenses (collectively loss) caused by or arising from any act or omission by the 
relevant person in performance of that person’s role as a Director, Secretary or Statutory officer.

the indemnity given by the Company excludes the following matters:
(a)  any loss to the extent caused by or arising from an act or omission of the Beneficiary prior to the effective date of the indemnity;
(b)  any loss to the extent indemnity in respect of that loss is prohibited under the Corporations Act (or any other law);
(c)  any loss to the extent it arises from private or personal acts or omissions of the Beneficiary;
(d)  any loss comprising the reimbursement of normal day-to-day expenses such as travelling expenses;
(e)  any loss to the extent the Beneficiary failed to act reasonably to mitigate the loss;
(f)  any loss to the extent it is caused by or arises from acts or omissions of the Beneficiary after the date the indemnity is revoked by the 

Company in accordance with the terms of the indemnity;

(g)  any loss to the extent it is caused by or arises from any breach by the Beneficiary of the terms of the indemnity.

Insurance policies are in place to cover Directors, Secretaries and other Statutory officers of Brambles limited and its subsidiaries, however 
the terms of the policies prohibit disclosure of the details of the insurance cover and the premiums paid.

events after BalanCe sHeet date

note 37. 
other than those outlined in the Directors’ Report, there have been no events that have occurred subsequent to 30 June 2009 that have had 
a material impact on Brambles’ financial performance or position.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

125

dirECtOrs’ dECLaratiOn

In the opinion of the Directors of Brambles limited: 

(a)  the financial statements and notes set out on pages 57 to 125 are in accordance with the Australian Corporations Act 2001, including: 

(i)  complying with Accounting Standards, the Corporations Regulations 2001 and other mandatory professional reporting requirements; and
(ii)  giving a true and fair view of the financial position of Brambles and Brambles limited as at 30 June 2009 and of their performance for 

the year ended on that date;

(b)  there are reasonable grounds to believe that Brambles limited will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable; and 

(c)  the audited remuneration disclosures set out on pages 35 to 48 of the Directors’ Report comply with Accounting Standard AASB 124: Related 

party Disclosures and the Corporations Regulations 2001.

the Directors have been given the declarations by the Chief executive officer and Chief Financial officer required by section 295A of the 
Corporations Act 2001.

this declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Directors.

G J Kraehe ao 
Chairman 

20 August 2009

m f ihlein 
Chief executive officer

126

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
   
indEpEndEnt auditOrs’ rEpOrt

to tHe memBers of BramBles limited

PricewaterhouseCoopers
ABN 52 780 433 757

Darling Park Tower 2
201 Sussex Street
GPO BOX 2650
SYDNEY NSW 1171
DX 77 Sydney Australia
Telephone +61 2 8266 0000
Facsimile +61 2 8266 9999
www.pwc.com/au

report on tHe finanCial report
We have audited the accompanying financial report of Brambles limited (the Company), which comprises the balance sheet as at 30 June 2009, 
and the income statement, statement of recognised income and expense and cash flow statement for the year ended on that date, a summary 
of significant accounting policies, other explanatory notes and the Directors’ declaration for both Brambles limited and Brambles. Brambles 
comprises the Company and the entities it controlled at the year’s end or from time to time during the financial year.

directors’ responsibility for the financial report
the Directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with Australian 
Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Act 2001. this responsibility includes 
establishing and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are 
reasonable in the circumstances. In note 1, the Directors also state, in accordance with Accounting Standard AASB 101 Presentation of 
Financial Statements, that compliance with the Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards ensures that the financial 
report, comprising the financial statements and notes, complies with International Financial Reporting Standards.

auditors’ responsibility 
our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian 
Auditing Standards. these Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan 
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. the procedures 
selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether 
due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair 
presentation of the financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of 
expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting 
policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the Directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the 
financial report.

our procedures include reading the other information in the Annual Report to determine whether it contains any material inconsistencies with 
the financial report.

our audit did not involve an analysis of the prudence of business decisions made by Directors or management.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinions. 

liability limited by a scheme approved under professional Standards legislation

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

127

independent auditors’ report – continued

to the memBers of BramBles limited

independence
In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001. 

auditors’ opinion 
In our opinion:

(a)  the financial report of Brambles limited is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:

(i)  giving a true and fair view of the Company’s and Brambles’ financial position as at 30 June 2009 and of their performance for the year 

ended on that date; and

(ii)  complying with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Regulations 

2001; and

(b)  the financial report also complies with International Financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in note 1.

rePort oN the remUNeratioN rePort
We have audited the Remuneration Report included in pages 35 to 48 of the Directors’ Report for the year ended 30 June 2009. the Directors 
of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the Remuneration Report in accordance with section 300A of the 
Corporations Act 2001. our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Remuneration Report, based on our audit conducted in accordance 
with Australian Auditing Standards.

auditors’ opinion 
In our opinion, the Remuneration Report of Brambles limited for the year ended 30 June 2009 complies with section 300A of the Corporations 
Act 2001.

matters relating to the electronic presentation of the audited financial report
this auditors’ report relates to the financial report and Remuneration Report of Brambles limited (the Company) for the year ended 30 June 
2009 included on Brambles’ website. the Company’s Directors are responsible for the integrity of Brambles’ website. We have not been engaged 
to report on the integrity of this website. the auditors’ report refers only to the financial report and Remuneration Report named above. It does 
not provide an opinion on any other information which may have been hyperlinked to/from these statements or the Remuneration Report. If users 
of this report are concerned with the inherent risks arising from electronic data communications they are advised to refer to the hard copy of the 
audited financial report and Remuneration Report to confirm the information included in the audited financial report and Remuneration Report 
presented on this website.

pricewaterhouseCoopers

m G Johnson 
partner 

Sydney 
20 August 2009

m K Graham 
partner

128

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
auditOrs’ indEpEndEnCE dECLaratiOn

PricewaterhouseCoopers
ABN 52 780 433 757

Darling Park Tower 2
201 Sussex Street
GPO BOX 2650
SYDNEY NSW 1171
DX 77 Sydney Australia
Telephone +61 2 8266 0000
Facsimile +61 2 8266 9999
www.pwc.com/au

As lead auditor for the audit of Brambles limited for year ended 30 June 2009, I declare that to the best of my knowledge and belief, 
there have been:

a)  no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and
b)  no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

this declaration is in respect of Brambles limited and the entities it controlled during the period.

m G Johnson 
partner 
pricewaterhouseCoopers

Sydney 
20 August 2009

liability limited by a scheme approved under professional Standards legislation

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

129

 
FivE yEar FinanCiaL pErFOrmanCE summary

2009 
us$m  

2008 
us$m  

2007 
us$m  

2006 
us$m  

2005 
us$m  

4,018.6  

4,358.6  

3,868.8  

3,522.1  

3,274.8 

900.6  

1,071.9  

921.8  

767.9  

598.5 

(120.9) 

(149.5) 

(59.9) 

(111.8) 

(130.1)

779.7  

922.4  

861.9  

656.1  

468.4 

(245.4) 

(282.4) 

(285.1) 

(228.4) 

(160.0)

534.3  

640.0  

576.8  

427.7  

308.4 

(100.3) 

6.9  

(143.1) 

(65.1) 

434.0  

646.9  

433.7  

362.6  

18.6  

1.8  

857.6  

1,101.8  

452.6  

648.7  

1,291.3  

1,464.4  

4.7 

313.1 

135.7 

448.8 

424.6  

458.6  

404.3  

– 

– 

– 

412.0  

80.7  

393.0 

212.4 

579.2  

735.6  

– 

– 

517.8  

21.3  

474.7  

133.6  

443.3 

222.4 

672.5  

419.5  

277.6  

141.9  

782.3  

412.6  

444.8  

726.5  

490.2  

604.0  

(32.2) 

(113.8) 

900.7  

559.7  

296.7  

263.0  

903.9 

622.2 

256.5 

365.7 

3,572.7  

3,969.7  

3,419.6  

4,643.1  

4,595.6 

2,143.4  

2,426.2  

1,996.9  

1,690.1  

2,208.3 

1,429.3  

1,543.5  

1,422.7  

2,953.0  

2,387.3 

12,785  

12,305  

12,327  

12,249  

11,813 

– 

– 

1,841  

14,043  

15,759 

32.6  

31.3  

38.5  

30.0 

– 

46.0  

45.9  

45.4  

34.5  

– 

83.4  

28.0  

37.3  

17.0  

– 

86.7  

21.5  

25.3  

25.0  

34.5  

26.4 

18.5 

18.2 

21.5 

–

Continuing operations

sales revenue 

underlying profit  

net finance costs 

underlying profit before tax  

tax expense on underlying profit 

underlying profit after finance costs and tax 

Significant items, after tax 

profit from continuing operations, after tax 

profit from discontinued operations, after tax 

profit for the year 

depreciation and amortisation

Continuing operations 

Discontinued operations 

net capex on property, plant & equipment

Continuing operations 

Discontinued operations 

Cash flow

Cash flow from operations (after net capex) 

Free cash flow 

Dividends paid 

Free cash flow after dividends 

Balance sheet

Capital employed 

net debt 

equity 

employees

Continuing operations 

Discontinued operations 

earnings per share (us cents)

Basic 

From continuing operations 

on underlying profit after finance costs and tax 

dividend declared per share (australian cents)

Interim and final 

Special 

130

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
gLOssary

2001 option plans

2001 share plans

2004 share plans

2006 share plan

act

actual rates

aGm

aifrs

asx

the Brambles Industries limited 2001 executive Share option plan and the Brambles 
Industries plc 2001 executive Share option plan, incorporating Brambles limited rollover 
amendments of 22 August 2006.

the Brambles Industries limited 2001 executive performance Share plan and the Brambles 
Industries plc 2001 executive performance Share plan, incorporating Brambles limited 
rollover amendments of 22 August 2006.

the Brambles Industries limited 2004 performance Share plan and the Brambles Industries 
plc 2004 performance Share plan, incorporating Brambles limited rollover amendments of 
22 August 2006.

the Brambles limited 2006 performance Share plan, as amended.

the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

In the statutory financial statements, foreign currency results are translated into uS dollars 
at the applicable actual monthly exchange rates ruling in each period.

Annual General Meeting.

Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards, used by Brambles 
to report its financial results.

Australian Securities exchange.

average Capital invested

Average Capital Invested or ACI is a 12 month average of Capital Invested.

B1208a pallet

B1210a pallet

Bil

Bip

Board

Capital Invested is calculated as net assets before tax balances, cash and borrowings, but 
after adjustment for accumulated pre-tax Significant items, actuarial gains or losses and net 
equity adjustments for equity-settled share-based payments.

the 1200x800mm general purpose pallet used by CHep in europe.

the 1200x1000mm block pallet used by CHep in europe.

Brambles Industries limited, which was previously one of the two listed entities in the 
dual-listed companies structure.

Brambles Industries plc, which was previously one of the two listed entities in the dual-listed 
companies structure.

the Board of Brambles limited.

Brambles, Brambles Group or Group

Brambles limited and all of its related bodies corporate.

Bva

CaGr

Capital expenditure

Cash flow from operations

Cdi

Constant currency

Brambles value Added or BvA represents the value generated over and above the cost of the 
capital used to generate that value.

It is calculated using fixed June 2008 exchange rates as:
 —
 —
 —

underlying profit; plus
Significant items that are part of the ordinary activities of the business; less
Average Capital Invested, adjusted for accumulated pre-tax Significant items that are part 
of the ordinary activities of the business, multiplied by 12%.

Compound Annual Growth Rate. the CAGR of sales revenue is the annualised percentage 
at which sales revenue would have grown over a period if it grew at a steady rate.

unless otherwise stated, capital expenditure is presented on an accruals basis and excludes 
intangible assets, investments in associates and equity acquisitions. It is shown gross of any 
fixed asset disposals proceeds.

Cash flow generated after net capital expenditure but excluding Significant items that are 
outside the ordinary course of business.

CReSt Depository Interest, the mechanism by which ordinary shares are traded and settled 
on the london Stock exchange. one CDI represents an underlying beneficial interest in one 
ordinary share of Brambles limited.

In the commentary, constant currency results are presented by translating both current and 
comparable period foreign currency results into uS dollars at the actual monthly exchange 
rates applicable in the comparable period, so as to show relative performance between the 
two periods before the translation impact of currency fluctuations. 

Continuing operations 

Continuing operations refers to CHep, Recall and Brambles HQ.

Crest

the uK’s electronic registration and settlement system for equity security trading.

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

131

gLOssary – CONTINUED

discontinued operations

operations which have been divested or which are held for sale.

dlC

dms

dps

eps

Dual-listed companies structure – a contractual arrangement between Brambles Industries 
limited and Brambles Industries plc under which they operated as if they were a single 
economic enterprise, whilst retaining their separate legal identities, tax residencies and 
stock exchange listings. the Brambles Group operated as a DlC from August 2001 to 
December 2006.

Document Management Solutions, a Recall service line.

Data protection Services, a Recall service line.

earnings per share.

free cash flow

Cash flow generated after net capital expenditure, finance costs and tax, but excluding the net 
cost of acquisitions and proceeds from business disposals.

fx

fy10

Kpi(s)

lean

lse

lti

ltifr

ltisr

oHs&e

organic growth

myshare

net new business wins

pat

rfid

roCi

rpC

sds

significant items

six sigma

sti

tfr

tsr

underlying profit

unification

Foreign exchange.

the 2010 financial year commencing 1 July 2009 and ending 30 June 2010.

Key performance Indicators.

lean, or lean thinking, is derived from the toyota production System and assists in the 
identification and steady elimination of waste, the improvement of quality, production time 
and cost reduction.

london Stock exchange.

long term Incentive.

lost time Injury Frequency Rate.

lost time Injury Severity Rate.

occupational Health Safety and environment.

Growth from existing customers.

the Brambles limited MyShare plan, an all employee share plan.

new business and lane expansion won in the period plus wins from the prior year carried 
forward 12 months, less business losses in the period.

profit After tax.

Radio Frequency Identification.

Return on Capital Invested or RoCI is calculated as underlying profit divided by Average 
Capital Invested.

Reusable plastic Container.

Secure Destruction Services, a Recall service line.

Significant items are items of income or expense which are, either individually or in aggregate, 
material to Brambles or to the relevant business segment and:
 —

outside the ordinary course of business (eg gains or losses on the sale or termination 
of operations, the cost of significant reorganisations or restructuring); or
part of the ordinary activities of the business but unusual due to their size and nature.

 —

A methodology that uses fact, data and statistical analysis to improve business processes, 
grow sales, reduce costs and improve quality and customer satisfaction.

Short term Incentive.

total Fixed Remuneration.

total Shareholder Return. tSR measures the returns that a company has provided for its 
shareholders, reflecting share price movements and reinvestment of dividends over a specified 
performance period. under the 2006 Share plan, tSR is normally calculated on the average 
daily closing share prices in the three months immediately preceding the start of a period and 
the end of a period.

underlying profit is profit from continuing operations before finance costs, tax and 
Significant items.

the unification of the dual-listed companies structure which operated between Brambles 
Industries limited and Brambles Industries plc under a new single Australian holding company, 
Brambles limited.

vesting

When rights under share plan awards may first be exercised.

132

BramBles limited Annu Al RepoRt 2009

EVERY SECOND 
eVeRY DAY 
EVERY TRADING  
Continent

Through our global businesses 
of CHEP and Recall, we meet 
the demands of our customers 
efficiently, safely and sustainably 
using sophisticated operating 
models tailored to the demands 
of diverse trading environments 
around the world. 

Despite the challenging 
economic environment, the 
world doesn’t stop – and neither 
do we. Our businesses help 
keep the world moving. From 
fresh produce and groceries to 
the most sensitive paper and 
digital documents, our 12,000 
employees are committed to 
the optimal movement of goods 
and information.

Contents

001 _ Chairman and CEO’s Report
002 _ Performance Summary
004 _ Our Global Reach
006 _ Strategy Matrix
010 _ Operational and Financial Review
018 _ Board of Directors
020 _ Executive Leadership Team
022 _ Corporate Governance Statement
035 _ Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report
049 _ Directors’ Report – Other Information
054 _ Shareholder Information

057 _ Financial Report – Financial Statements
126 _ Financial Report – Directors’ Declaration
127 _ Financial Report – Independent Auditors’ Report
129 _ Auditors’ Independence Declaration
130 _ Five Year Financial Performance Summary
131 _ Glossary
IBC _ Investor Information

note: All growth percentages in this Annual Report are in constant currency, unless stated otherwise.

brambles Limited
AbN 89 118 896 021

inVestoR inFoRMAtion

BramBles limited
Level 40, Gateway
1 Macquarie Place
Sydney NSW 2000
Australia
Telephone: 61 (0) 2 9256 5222
Facsimile: 61 (0) 2 9256 5299
Website: www.brambles.com

brambles Limited has a primary listing on 
the Australian Securities Exchange and a 
secondary listing on the London Stock 
Exchange. The global headquarters of 
brambles is in Sydney, Australia.

All currency amounts in this report are 
in US dollars unless otherwise specified.

annual General meetinG
The 2009 Annual General Meeting of 
brambles Limited will be held on Thursday, 
19 November 2009 at 2.00pm (AEDT) at:

The Savoy ballroom
Grand hyatt Melbourne
123 collins Street
Melbourne Vic 3000

A live webcast of the meeting will be 
broadcast on www.brambles.com.

dividend
The final dividend of 12.5 Australian cents 
per share is 20% franked for all shareholders 
in brambles Limited and will be paid on 
8 october 2009.

brambles Limited offers a dividend 
reinvestment plan for shareholders resident 
in Australia and New Zealand. Further details 
are available from Link Market Services, 
whose contact details shown on page 54.

cDi holders will receive their dividend 
payments as soon as possible after ordinary 
shareholders, once fx transactions have 
been completed.

cDis holders who are also cREST 
participants can expect to receive their 
dividend payments via cREST electronic 
Unmatched Stock Event (USE) messages, 
once the cash has been received and 
reconciled by Euroclear UK & ireland, taking 
note of their election (if any) of a default 
payment currency option as detailed in the 
Euroclear UK and ireland international 
service description.

For cDi holders who use the Equiniti 
corporate nominee service, additional 
processing time is required to print and mail 
cheques, or, for holders who have completed 
dividend mandate forms, to set up cash 
transfers into their bank accounts. All cDi 
holders who use the Equiniti corporate 
nominee service will receive their dividends 
in pounds sterling. 

BramBles Business units

cheP americas
8517 South Park circle
orlando FL 32819-9040
United States of America
Telephone: 1 407 370 2437
Facsimile: 1 407 363 5354
Email: chep@brambles.com
Website: www.chep.com

cheP emea
Rotherwick house
3 Thomas More Street
London
E1W 1YZ
United Kingdom
Telephone: 44 (0) 1932 833 089
Facsimile: 44 (0) 207 702 1612

cheP asia-Pacific
Level 6, building c
11 Talavera Road,
North Ryde NSW 2113
Australia
Telephone: 61 (0) 2 9856 2437
Facsimile: 61 (0) 2 9856 2404

recall
one Recall center
180 Technology Parkway
Norcross GA 30092
United States of America
Telephone: 1 770 776 1000
Facsimile: 1 770 776 1001
Email: recall@brambles.com
Website: www.recall.com

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www.BramBles.com

BramBles limited
Level 40, Gateway
1 Macquarie Place 
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia 
Tel: 61 (0) 2 9256 5222
Fax: 61 (0) 2 9256 5299 

General enquiries
Email: info@brambles.com

investor and analyst enquiries
MichAEL RobERTS
Vice President investor Relations and corporate Affairs
Tel: 61 (0) 2 9256 5222
Fax: 61 (0) 2 9256 5299 
Email: michael.roberts@brambles.com

retail shareholders
For Share Registrars’ details go to page 54 of this Annual Report.

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09:00 | CHEP SALES REP ON THE WAY  
    TO MEET WITH A CUSTOMER

brambles is committed to achieving Zero harm, which 
means zero injuries and zero environmental damage, 
and has used a PEFc, chain of custody accredited 
printer to produce this Annual Report.

PEFC/01-00-01

business
NEVER sLeePs

bRAMbLES ANNUAL REPORT 2009

09:00 | TRUCkLOAd Of PALLETS HEAdINg 
  TO CHEP SERvICE CENTRE fOR 
  INSPECTION ANd REPAIR

08:30 | MANUfACTURER dESPATCHEd 
gOOdS ON CHEP PALLETS TO 
A RETAILER dISTRIbUTION 
CENTRE

09:00 | RECALL COURIER EN ROUTE 

TO PICk-UP CUSTOMER 
dOCUMENT CARTONS fOR 
ARCHIvINg