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Clean Harbors

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FY2009 Annual Report · Clean Harbors
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2  overview

7   Business 

Performance

8   Who We Are 9    our  

responsibilities

Overview

Performance Highlights ......................... 2

Chairman’s Statement ........................... 3

Chief Executive’s Review ........................ 4

Notice of 
ANNuAl GeNerAl 
MeetiNG

The Annual General Meeting of Collection House Limited will be held on 30 October 2009 
at 11.00am at the Emporium Hotel, 1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, QLD.

The  business  of the meeting is outlined in the formal Notice and Proxy Form  that  are 
enclosed with this report.

CORPORATE DIRECTORY

Head Office

Collection House Limited 
ABN 74 010 230 716 

Level 7 
515 St Paul’s Terrace  
Fortitude Valley, Qld  4006

GPO Box 2247, Fortitude Valley BC 
Qld  4006

Telephone:  +61 7 3292 1000 
Facsimile:  +61 7 3832 0222 
Website: 

 www.collectionhouse.com.au

Registered Office

Collection House Limited

c/- Hacketts DFK 
Level 3 
549 Queen Street 
Brisbane, Qld  4000

Locations

Australia

Brisbane 
Ballarat 
Sydney 
Bendigo 
Melbourne 
Newcastle 
Adelaide 
Shepparton 
Perth

New Zealand

Auckland (2)

Stock Exchange Listings

Collection House Limited shares are listed on the Australian Stock 
Exchange.  The home exchange is Brisbane.

ASX Code: CLH

Company Secretary

Michael Watkins

Phone:  
Facsimile:  +61 3414 7525

+61 7 3100 1229 

Auditors

Hacketts DFK

Level 3 
549 Queen Street 
Brisbane, Qld  4000

Share Registry

Computershare Investor Services Pty Limited

GPO Box 242 
Melbourne, VIC 3001 
AUSTRALIA

For general enquiries: 

Phone:  1300  552  270  for  calls  within  Australia  or  +61  3  237  2100 
outside Australia

Your  Proxy  form  may  be  faxed  to  Computershare  on  1800  783  447 
(within Australia) or +61 3 9473 2555 (outside Australia)

To  access  your  account  or  change  your  details,  please  visit  the 
Computershare website at  www.computershare.com

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

117

20   Directors’ 

Report

35    Auditor’s 

Independence 
Declaration

36    Financial 

Statements 
Contents

117    Corporate 

Directory

Business Performance

Who We Are

Directors’ Report ............................. 20

Company Profile  .................................... 7

Board of Directors .................................. 8

Auditor’s Independence Declaration  35

Divisional Performance .......................... 7 

Executive Management .......................... 8

Financial Statements Contents ........ 36

Purchased Debt ................................7

Our Responsibilities

Independent Audit Report ...............113

Commission Collections Services ....7

Receivables Management ................7

Corporate Social Responsibility ............. 9

Shareholder Information ................115

Environment ......................................9

Corporate Directory ........................117

Financial Basics Foundation ............9

Learning for Life ...............................9

Corporate Governance Statement ....... 10

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

1

OVERVIEW

Performance Highlights

2007 

2008 

2009

Pre tax underlying profit ($m) 
% growth 

4.4 

10.1 
130% 

10.5 
4%

EBITDA ($m) 
% growth 

34.6 

44.7 
29% 

47.9 
7%

Dividends per share (cents) 
% growth 

2.0 

4.7 
135% 

4.9 
4%

Shareholders equity ($m) 
% growth 

77.1 

84.3 
9% 

88.0 
4%

FY07

FY08

FY09

Pre tax underlying profit ($m’s)

FY07

FY08

FY09

EBITDA ($m’s)

FY07

FY08

FY09

Dividends per share (c)

$m’s

11

10

9

8

7

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

$m’s

50

45

40

35

30

25

20

15

10

0

Cents
5.0

4.5

4.0

3.5

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0

$m’s
100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

FY07
Shareholders equity ($m’s)

FY09

FY08

2

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
 
 
 
Chairman’s Statement

“The Company is well positioned to take advantage 
of the significant opportunities that we believe will be 
available in the Australasian market”

It  is  a  pleasure  to  report  that  the  Company  has  had  another 
excellent year under the stewardship of our CEO Tony Aveling and 
his dedicated and enthusiastic team.  Congratulations Tony to you 
and your team on a great result. Investors know what a tough past 
year it has been and for us to report a profit and dividend up on last 
year, is indicative of both the great team effort of our people and the 
excellent opportunity that the industry presents.

With my election as Chairman taking effect on the 1st of July 2009 
I want to thank our Chairman since listing on the ASX on October 
4th  2000,  Dennis  Punches,  for  his  guidance  of  the  Company.  
His  experience  and  financial  support  has  been  essential  in  us 
reporting  nine  consecutive  annual  profit  results.  Congratulations 
Dennis,  we  are  delighted  that  you  are  remaining  on  the  Board  as 
Deputy Chairman.

With the sound base that has been created, particularly over the last 
two years, we are now in a position to both consolidate and capitalise 
on that foundation.  We believe that there will be more debt available 
for both purchase and also in the contingent environment over the 
next  year.    And  we  believe  that  there  will  not  be  as  much  capital 
available  for  the  purchase  of  the  available  debt.  That,  along  with 
other  factors  should  lead  to  lower  prices  for  the  debt  purchased 
and increased opportunities for contingent work. This, added to the 
much better climate for recruiting and retaining quality staff, allows 
us to feel confident about the year ahead.

In the past year we have moved to our new Head Office at “Green 
Square”  in  Brisbane,  a  wonderful  facility,  a  new  well  fitted  office 
in  Sydney  and  a  smaller  less  expensive  location  in  Perth.    These 
moves  consolidate  our  locations  and  offices  to  suit  the  focused 
direction  in  debt  management  and  recovery  that  we  have  taken.  
Put  simply,  the  Company  is  well  positioned  to  take  advantage  of 
the significant opportunities that we believe will be available in the 
Australasian market.

As your new Chairman my focus will be on encouraging Tony Aveling 
and  his  team  to  continue  working  with  our  clients  and  customers 
to  obtain  results  that  will  increase  shareholder  value.    I  am 
enthusiastic about the challenge and will work to maximize results 
for all stakeholders.

John Pearce 
Chairman

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

3

OVERVIEW

Chief Executive’s Review

“Our Company is strong and prosperous, 
and our task is to make absolutely 
sure it stays that way”

Despite  difficult  economic  conditions,  Collection  House  again 
exceeded  expectations.    This  was  evidenced  by  achieving  an 
underlying pre tax profit of $10.5 million which is the highest since the 
introduction of new accounting standards in 2006; growing EBITDA 
(Earnings Before Interest Tax Depreciation and Amortisation) by 7% 
to $47.9 million; and delivering a Total Shareholder Return of 15.9% 
on the back of double digit yielding fully franked dividends.

Who we are

Collection  House  is  Australia’s  leading  receivables  manager  with 
offices  in  Queensland,  New  South  Wales  (2),  Victoria  (4),  South 
Australia, Western Australia and New Zealand (2).

A difficult 08/09 operating environment

To  state  the  blindingly  obvious,  the  world,  and  to  a  lesser  degree 
Australia and New Zealand, have been through a severe economic 
downturn which is by no means over.  Investors are only too painfully 
aware  of  this  and  hardly  need  reminding  of  that  overused  term, 
‘Global Financial Crisis’.

Inevitably these depressive forces impacted our business, principally 
because those of our customers who are under increased financial 
pressure  are  often  less  able  to  meet  their  obligations.    This  is 
particularly  so  where  they  have  lost  their  jobs  or  fear  that  that  is 
likely to happen.

Our  core  businesses  are  Receivables  Management,  Commission 
Collections and Debt Purchasing.

Time to amend the strategy

We  focus  on  mainly  blue  chip  clients  including  major  banks, 
financial  institutions,  insurance  houses,  large  corporations,  public 
utilities and local governments.

Our competitive strength lies not only in being very good at collections, 
but also in our people and training, our brand protection leadership 
through  following  high  ethical  standards,  our  compliance  culture, 
our proprietary technology, and our management information.

What we have done

Collection House was floated on the Australian Stock Exchange in 
2000.    While  there  have  been  some  ups  and  downs,  the  Company 
has made profits and paid dividends every year since then.

Within the industry, we are a unique combination of Top 4 debt buyer, 
usually top performing agent when contingent rankings are provided 
by clients, and excellence in Local Government collections.

Since inception we have paid $338 million for purchases of debt with 
a Face Value of $2.9 billion.

However,  good  companies  don’t  throw  up  their  hands  in  despair 
when life gets tough.  They amend their strategies and they find a 
better way.

When the financial system started falling apart, we recognised that 
we not only needed to change but that we had to move fast.

The key changes we made were:

•	

	Helping	 protect	 our	 ongoing	 viability	 by	 securing	 longer	 term	
funding from our bankers.

•	 Decreasing	costs	by	reducing	the	number	of	support	staff.

•	

•	

•	

	Growing	our	Purchased	Debt	Ledger	book	by	taking	a	disciplined	
approach  to  pricing  debt  purchases  that  reflect  more  difficult 
economic conditions.

	Maintaining	book	value	and	cash	flow	by	emphasising	the	need	
for  customers  to  enter  into  repayment  arrangements  where 
they were unable to make payment in full.

	Growing	 our	 business	 by	 placing	 greater	 emphasis	 on	 the	
commission businesses which are more likely to grow as clients 
look to strengthen their cash flow from receivables.

4

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

What we achieved

An exceptional new Head Office

Thankfully these moves paid off with key results as follows:

	After	 jumping	 from	 $4.4	 million	 to	 $10.1	 million	 in	 2007/08,	
underlying pre tax profits, ie excluding exceptional items, grew 
to $10.5 million (lower tax credits saw after tax profits dip from 
$7.5 million to $7.4 million).

	Revenue	from	continuing	activities	was	up	7%	to	$102	million	with	
rises in both Purchased Debt and Commission Collections.

	EBITDA	rose	from	$44.7	million	to	$47.9	million	while	EBIT	was	
up 9% to $15.5 million.

	Net	 Assets	 per	 share	 increased	 to	 90.4	 cents,	 considerably	
higher than the year end share price of 49 cents which itself was 
up 56% from its November low of 31 cents.

	Instead	of	the	usual	one	year	facility,	we	requested	and	received	
a  two  year  facility  extension  from  our  long  term  bankers.    All 
covenants were comfortably met.

Annual Reports do not usually cover moves to a new Head Office but 
we are very excited about this and wish to share the news with you.

We have moved from two buildings in Brisbane’s Central Business 
District to one on the fringe CBD.  Our previous tenancies were old 
and  tired,  had  become  totally  unsuitable  for  a  modern  call  centre 
environment, and the rentals were about to more than double.

Instead we now have a state of the art Head Office, and as good a 
call centre as any in Queensland.  It presents a professional image 
for our clients, it has been enthusiastically received by our staff and 
aids  both  recruitment  and  retention.    We  achieved  an  exceptional 
value for money fitout, and the rental is much lower than if we had 
remained in our previous locations.

Best  of  all,  the  building  achieved  a  6  Star  Green  Star  rating,  the 
first  in  Queensland.    This  feature  is  tremendously  important  to 
the Company and our staff as we all try to play our part in limiting 
damage to the environment.

	We	were	disciplined	with	our	Purchased	Debt	pricing,	buying	73%	
of the previous year’s Face Value but for only 48% of the cost.

Still a challenging external environment

	The	 all	 important	 Purchase	 Debt	 Arrangement	 Book,	 where	
there is a high propensity to pay, grew 13% to $106 million while 
the default rate halved.

	Cash	flow	was	negative	$6	million,	this	being	due	solely	to	the	
one off costs of moving our Head Office.

	Amortisation	of	our	Purchase	Debt	Ledgers	remained	within	our	
usual 47-49% band.

•	

	Productivity	rose	despite	the	difficult	environment.

•	

	The	 ratio	 of	 Support	 to	 Collection	 staff	 reduced	 yet	 again,	 this	
time from 14.6% to 12.4%.

From  the  all  important  shareholder  perspective,  Collection  House 
recorded  a  positive  TSR  (Total  Shareholder  Return)  of  15.9%  on 
the  back  of  an  attractive  fully  franked  double  digit  dividend  yield.  
Dividends for the year grew from 4.7 cents to 4.9 cents.

While the economic outlook is currently looking brighter, it seems 
likely to be quite some time before we return to ‘normal’.

From  the  perspectives  of  this  business,  the  greatest  challenge 
is  the  near  certainty  of  rising  unemployment  which  will  reduce 
the  recoverability  of  our  debt.    At  the  same  time,  household  costs 
are  rising,  especially  power,  water  and  transport  costs,  which  are 
squeezing household budgets.

We  are  also  seeing  Purchase  Debt  vendor  expectations  remaining 
too high, a position encouraged by some purchasers. Our qualitative 
and quantitative pricing models developed over many years do not 
support these prices, nor does experience overseas.

Finally  on  the  downside,  we  must  acknowledge  the  benefits  we 
received through the Federal Government’s stimulatory measures in 
2008/09	–	benefits	which	will	not	be	received	this	year.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

5

OVERVIEW

Chief Executive’s Review

There are many positives though.  There is not likely to be a shortage 
of  debt  for  sale  and  potential  Commission  Collections  volumes 
could rise. 

Relatively  low  interest  rates  will  continue  which  benefits  both  our 
customers and our own funding costs.

We also expect further improvement in the availability, quality and 
retention of employees as job security assumes greater importance 
than in recent years.

A special thanks to our enthusiastic staff

Recent employee satisfaction surveys go some way to explaining why 
we are performing so well despite the economic doom and gloom.

For nearly all questions, over 80% of respondents agreed or strongly 
agreed with the positive attributes of Collection House.  Highlights 
included  96%  of  respondents  know  what  is  expected  of  them  in 
their  role,  92%  understand  what  the  Company’s  objectives  are 
and  how  they  contribute  to  these  being  achieved,  90%  say  that 
communications  are  good,  and  90%  have  a  good  relationship  with 
their immediate supervisor.

We have an experienced Executive Management team, hundreds of 
enthusiastic Customer Service Officers, and a valued support staff 
without whom none of this progress could have been achieved. To 
them my sincere thanks. 

Outlook

To  maintain  momentum,  our  strategies  will  focus  upon  building 
the  Arrangement  Book,  maximising  productivity,  maintaining 
disciplined  pricing  for  debt  purchases,  and  gaining  profitable  new 
commission clients.

Our  Company  is  strong  and  prosperous,  and  our  task  is  to  make 
absolutely sure it stays that way.  I’m confident that the inspiration 
of a sound strategy, the guidance of the Board, and the hard work 
and talent of our people, will enable us to capitalise on our record of 
growing profits and dividends.

Tony Aveling 
Chief Executive Officer

6

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

BusInEss P ERfORmancE

Company Profile

Collection House Limited is Australia’s leading receivables manager.  
Our  core  business  is  providing  contingent  collection  services, 
receivables  management  and  debt  purchasing  services  (Lion 
Finance Pty Ltd).

As a public company, listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX 
Code:  CLH),  Collection  House  operates  throughout  Australia  and 
New Zealand.

We enjoy strong business relationships with a diverse range of blue 
chip  clients  including  major  Australian  and  New  Zealand  banks, 
financial  institutions,  insurance  houses,  large  corporations,  public 
utilities and government authorities.

We  focus  on  enhancing  our  stakeholders’  brand  protection  by 
maintaining  the  highest  ethical  standards  and  a  strong  culture  of 
compliance with the laws and regulations governing our business. 

We  believe  Collection  House  sets  the  benchmark  in  ethical 
debt collection.

The  success  of  our  business  is  undoubtedly  underpinned  by 
the  quality  of  our  people.  Reinforcing  these  quality  standards 
are  innovative  training  and  development  programs  providing 
professional career advancement in debt collection. Headquartered 
in  Brisbane,  Collection  House  now  employs  over  580  staff  in  11 
Australasian offices.

For further shareholder, investment and career information, please 
visit www.collectionhouse.com.au

Divisional Performance

Purchased Debt

The impact of the economic downturn has been offset by a continuous 
emphasis  on  growing  the  Arrangement  Book  via  strategies  and 
process improvements implemented throughout the year. This puts 
in  place  a  growing  reoccurring  revenue  source  and  supports  the 
carrying value of the debt portfolio.

Discounting  continued  to  be  well  managed  and  targeted  letter 
and  telephony  campaigns  on  older  debt  portfolios  complemented 
the  activity  of  the  Customer  Service  Officers  work  upon 
newer purchases.

Staff  retention  strategies  have  been  effective  during  the  year  with 
an  increase  in  the  average  length  of  service  of  Customer  Service 
Officers  from  14  months  to  16  months.  Further  developing  our 
valued  staff,  a  more  robust  and  dedicated  training  team  was  also 
introduced  into  the  Debt  Purchase  Division  thus  enhancing  the 
training,  development  and  ongoing  support  that  will  underpin 
future initiatives.

Commission Collections Services

Within  the  Commission  Collections  business  we  have  experienced 
solid  organic  growth  from  our  key  clients  through  the  referral  of 
additional products. 

Additionally  we  have  continued  to  rationalise  contracts  which 
were  not  delivering  acceptable  returns.    While  this  led  to  revenue 
reductions at times, underlying profitability increased. 

Three  primary  areas  within  our  Commission  Collections  Division, 
being  Banking  and  Finance  collections,  Insurance  and  Corporate 
(Commercial)  are  all  showing  positive  signs  of  growth  and  are 
expected to be significant contributors to future results.

The  fourth  area,  Midstate  Credit  Management  Services  Pty  Ltd 
which  provides  services  to  Local  Government,  achieved  another 
outstanding  result  despite  difficulties  posted  by  bushfires  and 
droughts (www.midstatecms.com.au).

Receivables Management

Global recession, increased living costs and higher unemployment 
are  creating  a  demand  for  our  Receivables  Management  business 
now in its ninth year of operation. 

Whilst book growth continues, we have managed to maintain staff 
numbers by up skilling and utilisation of new technology. Collection 
House’s  shared  outbound  calling  team,  the  National  Collections 
Division,  assisted  in  this  by  providing  support  for  overflow  and 
conducting weekend and evening campaigns. 

This  year  we  introduced  100%  call  recording  enabling  training 
and  development  of  our  Customer  Service  Officers.  This  tool  is 
invaluable as it will also ensure protection for Collection House, our 
customers and our valued clients. 

Revenue  for  the  division  has  increased.  As  part  of  our  growth 
strategy  we  will  work  toward  increased  volumes  and  productivity 
through the up skilling and retention of staff.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

7

WHO WE aRE

Board of Directors

1

2

7

3

4

8

5

6

1  |  John Pearce 
  Chairman

4  |  Barrie Adams 

7  |  Bill Hiller 

 Lead Independent 
Director 

 Independent 
Director

2  |  Dennis Punches 
  Deputy Chairman

3  |  Tony Aveling 

 Managing Director 
& Chief Executive 
Officer

5  |  Tony Coutts  

8  |  Bill Kagel 

 Non-Executive 
Director

 Independent 
Director

6  |   Barry Connelly BJ. 
Independent 
Director

Further information on our 
Directors  is  contained  in 
the  Directors’  Report  on 
pages 23 to 25.

Executive Management

Adrian Ralston 
Chief Financial Officer 

Kylie Lynam 
General	Manager	–	
Human Resources

Matthew Thomas 
Chief Operating Officer

Michael Watkins 
General Counsel and 
Company Secretary

8

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OuR REsPOnsIBIlItIEs

Corporate Social Responsibility

Supporting the Environment: 
New Head Office

As  outlined  earlier  in  this  report,  one  of  our  primary  business 
objectives is attracting and retaining quality employees. In line with 
this	key	objective	in	2008/09	we	relocated	our	Brisbane	Head	Office	
to  new  premises  which  offers  our  people  a  significantly  enhanced 
working environment.

Located in the heart of the vibrant urban renewal precinct of Fortitude 
Valley, Green Square North Tower occupies a prominent site, just 250 
metres	 from	 Brunswick	 Street	 Railway	 Station	 –	 one	 of	 only	 three	
major railway stations in Brisbane which are serviced by all trains. 
Brisbane  City  Council  buses  servicing  most  Brisbane  suburbs  can 
also be accessed directly in front of the site, offering our employees 
an unparalleled range of convenient public transport options.

Green Square has achieved a coveted 6 star Green Star rating under 
the	Green	Building	Council	of	Australia	Scheme	–	an	environmental	
rating  tool  which  evaluates  the  environmental  performance  of 
buildings based on extensive criteria.

In  keeping  with  the  6  star  Green  Star  rating,  the  new  Head  Office 
has been fitted out with as many environmentally friendly facilities 
as  possible,  which  provides  benefits  to  both  our  people  and  the 
wider community.

Financial Basics Foundation

“Now,  more  than  ever  financial  education  is  an  essential  life  skill 
for all young people. We need to start financial education early with 
a  planned  and  coherent  program  throughout    the  school  years  so 
that all young people leaving school have the skills, knowledge and 
confidence in financial matters to participate fully in society.” Barrie 
Adams, Chairman Financial Basics Foundation.

The  Financial  Basics  Foundation  was  established  in  2002  by 
Collection  House  in  response  to  the  need  for  greater  financial 
literacy  amongst  young  Australians.    We  continue  to  be  a  major 
supporter of the Foundation.

The  completion  of  the  review  and  update  of  the  Operation 
Financial Literacy material at the end of last year also included the 
development of a new module for the Operation Financial Literacy 
teaching resource. Module 11  - Scams has been incorporated, and 
as with all of the Foundations resources - the material was written 
by  leading  business  educators  and  has  been  mapped  to  all  state 
and  territory  curriculum  documents  for  ease  of  use  in  Australian 
secondary schools. 

A further 200 new schools have registered in the last financial year for 
this material. Operation Financial Literacy has now been distributed 
free of charge to some 1500 secondary schools across Australia. 

Released  in  June  2007  the  ESSI  (Earning,  Saving,  Spending  and 
Investing) Money online game had 11,360 registered users within the 
first 12 months. By June 2009 this figured has grown to over 28,848 
registered users.The Foundation worked with the game’s developers 
to  produce  a  CD  Rom  version  of  ESSI  Money  to  better  facilitate 
access to this important learning tool to regional schools and those 
schools with limited bandwidth. 

The  global  financial  crisis  has  highlighted  the  need  for  programs 
and resources that not only better educate young Australians about 
sound  financial  management  skills  but  that  help  young  people 
engage in their community and to build  their own financial capacity. 
With  the  lessons  learned  from  this  situation  the  Foundation  is 
working closely with the management of Collection House to utilise 
these valuable educational tools with staff in the Company.

The  Foundation  continues  to  maintain  a  focussed  and  long  term 
approach  to  the  development  and  enhancement  of  our  resources 
and this was a key outcome in 2009. 

The  Foundation’s  resources  are  now  also  being  provided  to  well 
known  charitable  institutions  in  Australia.  Charities  that  work 
with  young  people  who  are  often  disengaged  from  the  traditional 
education system consider financial literacy as a critical life skill. 

All  of  the  learning  materials  and  ESSI  Money  are  provided 
by  the  Foundation  at  no  cost  to  schools  and  charities 
throughout Australia. 

For  more  information  about  the  Financial  Basics  Foundation, 
Operation  Financial  Literacy  or  ESSI  Money  go 
to 
www.financialbasics.org.au 

Learning for Life

As  we  enter  our  fourth  year  supporting  the  Smith  Family’s 
Learning for Life program, Collection House’s commitment to this 
worthwhile cause continues.  Learning for Life supports financially 
underprivileged  children  through  education,  assisting  with  books, 
uniforms  and  excursions.    This  past  year,  Collection  House 
provided support for four students offering them the opportunity to 
develop through literary support, mentoring, tutoring and personal 
development  initiatives  supplied  by  the  program.    We  intend  to 
continue the contribution to this very worthwhile program as part of 
our commitment to social community responsibility.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

9

OuR REsPOnsIBIlItIEs

Corporate Governance Statement

1.  Introduction

3. The Board of Directors

This statement relates to the year under review.  

a)   Membership and expertise of the Board

a)  Date of statement

 This  Statement  reflects  our  corporate  governance  framework, 
policies and procedures which have been in place since 1 January 
2008	and	were	re–approved	and	re–endorsed	by	the	Collection	
House Limited Board on 25 June 2009.

b)  Access to information on the website

 This  Corporate  Governance  Statement,  and  the  documents 
referred  to  in  the  Statement,  are  available  for  viewing  on  our 
website in the corporate governance section (unless otherwise 
stated) at ‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’.

2.  Our approach to corporate governance

 Directors’  membership,  period  of  office  held,  experience  and 
shareholdings are provided in greater detail on pages 23 to 25 of 
the Directors’ Report.

 ASXCGC’s Recommendations 2.6

b)  Board role and responsibility

 The role and responsibilities of the Board are formalised in the 
Board  Charter.  The  Charter  also  defines  the  matters  that  are 
reserved for the Board and its Committees, and those that the 
Board has delegated to management.

 The Board is accountable to shareholders for our performance, 
and the Board’s responsibilities include:

a)   Framework and approach to corporate governance

 Our  approach  to  corporate  governance  is  based  on  a  set  of 
values and behaviours that underpin everyday activities, ensures 
transparency and fair dealing, and protects stakeholder interests. 
The Board continues to review this framework and our practices 
to ensure that we meet the interests of our stakeholders.

 This approach includes a commitment to the highest standards 
of governance and the revised ‘Corporate Governance Principles 
and Recommendations’ which our Board sees as fundamental 
to shareholder and market confidence and to the sustainability 
of our business and performance. 

b)   Compliance with the ASXCGC’s Principles 

and Recommendations

 The  ASX  Listing  Rules  require  listed  entities,  such  as  our 
Company,  to  include  a  statement  in  their  Annual  Report 
disclosing  the  extent  to  which  they  have  followed  the  twenty 
seven (27) ASXCGC Principles and Recommendations (ASXCGC’s 
Recommendations) during the reporting period, identifying any 
recommendations  that  have  not  been  followed  and  providing 
reasons for that variance.

 We  believe  that  our  corporate  governance  practices  comply 
with  the  ASXCGC’s  Principles  and  Recommendations,  other 
than  for  Recommendations  2.1,  2.2,  2.4  and  4.2,  which  relate 
to  independence.  Our  reasoning  on  independence  and  an 
explanation for our variance on the ASXCGC’s Recommendations 
2.1, 2.2, 2.4 and 4.2 are set out in section 3(e) and section 4(b) of 
this Statement.

 A  checklist  summarising  our  compliance  with 
ASXCGC’s  Recommendations 
‘www. collectionhouse. com. au’.

the 
is  on  our  website  at 

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 2.1, 2.2 and 2.6

10

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	•	

	providing	 strategic	 direction	 and	 approving	 significant	
corporate strategic initiatives;

	providing	 input	 into,	 and	 approval	 of,	 management’s	
development 
and 
performance objectives;

corporate 

strategy 

of 

	reviewing	and	approving	business	plans;

	overseeing	 and	 monitoring	 the	 financial	 and	 non	 financial	
key performance indicators;

	Board	performance	and	composition;

	Board	and	executive	leadership	selection;

	succession	planning	for	the	Board	and	executives;

	enhancing	 and	 protecting	 the	 brand	 and	 reputation	 of	
the Company;

	setting	MD/CEO	and	Non-executive	Director	remuneration;	

	considering	 and	 approving	 our	 half-yearly	 and	 annual	
financial statements;

	selecting	 and	 recommending	
appointment of the external auditor;

to	 shareholders	

the	

	approving	 our	 risk	 management	 strategy	 and	 various	
risk  management 
and  monitoring 
their effectiveness;

frameworks 

	corporate	responsibility	–	considering	the	social,	ethical	and	
environmental  impact  of  our  activities,  setting  standards 
and monitoring compliance;

	maintaining	 a	 direct	 and	 ongoing	 dialogue	 with	 relevant	
regulators in Australia and ensuring that the market and our 
shareholders and other investors are continuously informed 
of material developments; and

	•	

	determining	the	scope	of	delegated	authorities.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 The Board has delegated a number of these responsibilities to 
its  Committees.    The  responsibilities  of  these  Committees  are 
detailed in section 4 of this Statement.

 The  Board  has  delegated 
responsibility for:

to  Executive  Management, 

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

	developing	 and	 implementing	 corporate	 strategies	 and	
making  recommendations  on  significant  corporate 
strategic initiatives;

	making	recommendations	for	the	appointment	of	Executive	
Management, determining terms of appointment, evaluating 
performance,  and  developing  and  maintaining  succession 
plans for Executive Management roles;

	developing	 our	 annual	 budget	 plan	 and	 managing	 day-to-
day operations within the budget plan;

	maintaining	effective	risk	management	frameworks;

	keeping	the	Board	and	market	fully	informed	about	material	
developments; and

in	 accordance	 with	
	managing	 day-to-day	 operations	
standards  for  social,  ethical  and  environmental  practices, 
which have been set by the Board.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendation 1.1

c)  Board size and composition

 The  Board  considers  that  the  optimum  number  of  Directors 
is  between  six  and  eight,  with  Independent  Non-executive 
Directors, comprising the majority of the Board.

 As  at  30  June  2009,  there  were  three  Non-independent  Non-
executive  Directors,  four  Independent  Non-executive  Directors 
and one Executive Director on our Board. Our Constitution sets 
a maximum of ten Directors.  The Chairman of the Board is non-
executive,	separate	and	independent	of	the	role	of	the	MD/CEO.

 The Nominations Committee assesses: the Board composition 
and  size  and  recommends  to  the  Board  changes  to  the  Board 
composition  and  size;  and  the  skills  required  to  discharge  the 
Board’s  duties,  having  regard  to  our  business  mix,  financial 
position  and  strategic  direction,  including  specific  qualities  or 
skills  that  the  Nominations  Committee  believes  are  necessary 
for one or more of the Directors to possess.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 2.1, 2.3 and 2.4

d)  The Chairman

 The  Board  elects  one  of  the  Non-executive  Directors  to 
be Chairman. 

 The current Chairman, John Pearce, is a Non-executive Director. 
He has been a Director of the Company since 9 April 1993 and 
Chairman since 25 June 2009.  The Chairman is a member of 
the Remuneration Committee.

 Until 25 June 2009, Dennis Punches was Chairman, having held 
that position since 2000.

 Both  the  Company’s  current  Chairman,  John  Pearce,  and  the 
previous Chairman, Dennis Punches, are considered by the Board 
not to be independent in terms of the ASX Corporate Governance 
Council’s definition of Independent Director. However, the Board 
considers  that  for  the  reasons  set  out  in  section  3(e),  both 
John  Pearce  and  Dennis  Punches  have  extensive  experience 
and  professionalism  which  allows  them  to  exercise  quality, 
unfettered  and  independent  judgment  on  all  relevant  issues 
falling  within  the  scope  of  the  role  of  Chairman  of  the  Board.  
Dennis Punches is Chairman of the Nominations Committee.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendation 2.2, 2.4

e)  Director independence

 Directors  are  considered  to  be  independent  if  they  are 
independent  of  management  and  free  from  any  business  or 
other relationship that could materially interfere with, or could 
reasonably be perceived to materially interfere with, the exercise 
of  their  unfettered  and  independent  judgment.    Materiality 
is  assessed  on  a  case-by-case  basis  by  reference  to  each 
Director’s  individual  circumstances  rather  than  by  applying 
general materiality thresholds.

 Directors must disclose any interests or relationships, including 
any related financial or other details, to the Board to determine 
whether the relationship could, or could reasonably be perceived 
to, materially interfere with the exercise of a Director’s unfettered 
and independent judgment.

 The Board considers that until 30 June 2009, a majority of the 
Board is not independent. However, the Board considers that the 
individuals on the Board can, and do exercise quality, unfettered 
and independent judgment in the best interests of the Company, 
on all relevant issues.  Directors who have a conflict of interest 
in relation to a particular item of business must, and do, absent 
themselves from the Board meeting before commencement of 
discussion on the topic.

 In  addition  to  ensuring  that  the  Board  has  a  broad  range  of 
necessary  skills,  knowledge,  and  experience  to  govern  the 
Company  and  understand  the  challenges  that  the  Company 
faces,  the  Board  considers  that  its  membership  should 
represent  an  appropriate  balance  between  Directors  with 
experience  and  knowledge  of  the  Company  and  Directors  with 
an external perspective.

 The  Board  also  considers  that  its  size  should  be  conducive 
to  effective  discussion  and  efficient  decision-making.    The 
its  current  composition  meets 
Board  believes 
these requirements.

that 

 The  Nominations  Committee  charter  discloses  a  process  for 
selection and appointment of new Directors and re-election of 
incumbent Directors.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

11

 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OuR REsPOnsIBIlItIEs

Corporate Governance Statement

Exceptions to ASXCGC’s Recommendations 

f)  Avoidance of conflicts of interest by a Director

 The Board is conscious of its obligations to ensure that Directors 
avoid conflicts of interest (both real and apparent) between their 
duties  as  Directors  of  the  Company  and  their  other  interests 
and duties.

 In  accordance  with  our  Constitution,  all  Directors  are  required 
to  disclose  any  actual  or  potential  conflict  of  interest  on 
appointment  as  a  Director  and  are  required  to  keep  these 
disclosures up to date.

 Any  Director  with  a  material  personal  interest  in  a  matter 
being considered by the Board must declare their interest and, 
unless the Board resolves otherwise, they may not participate in 
boardroom discussions or vote on matters in respect of which 
they have a conflict.

 Our  Constitution  and  Code  of  Conduct  for  Directors  and 
Senior  Executives  can  be  obtained  from  our  website  at  ‘www.
collectionhouse.com.au’.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendation 3.1

g)  Meetings of the Board and their conduct

 The  Board  has  scheduled  meetings  each  year  and  meets 
whenever necessary between scheduled meetings to deal with 
specific matters needing attention.

	The	Chairman,	with	input	from	the	MD/CEO	and	the	Company	
Secretary,  establishes  meeting  agendas  for  assessing  our 
coverage of financial, strategic and major risk areas, throughout 
the year.  The Directors have the opportunity to review meeting 
materials  in  advance.    Directors  are  always  encouraged  to 
participate  with  a  robust  exchange  of  views  and  to  bring  their 
independent  judgments  to  bear  on  the  issues  and  decisions 
at hand.

 Details  of  meetings  attended  by  Directors  during  the  year  are 
reported in the Directors’ Report.

h)  Succession planning

 The  Board  considers  Director  succession  in  conjunction  with 
the  Nominations  Committee.    Together  they  are  responsible 
for developing and implementing succession planning for Non-
executive  Directors,  taking  into  account  the  challenges  and 
opportunities  facing  us  and  the  skills  and  expertise  which  are 
likely to be needed on the Board today and in the future.

is	

responsible	

	The	 Board	
for	 MD/CEO	 succession	
planning.	 	 The	 MD/CEO	 is	 actively	 involved	 with	 Executive	
Management succession.

 2.1 A majority of the Board should be 
Independent Directors

 Of our Board, four Directors are considered not to be independent 
in  accordance  with  Recommendation  2.1,  as  at  30  June  2009.  
These Directors are John Pearce (Chairman appointed 25 June 
2009)  (previously  Deputy  Chairman),  Dennis  Punches  (Deputy 
Chairman appointed 25 June 2009) (previously Chairman), Tony 
Aveling	(MD/CEO)	and	Tony	Coutts	(Non-Executive	Director).

 Due  only  to  their  respective  substantial  shareholdings  in  the 
Company,  John  Pearce  and  Dennis  Punches  and  also  Tony 
Coutts, as a previous Executive Director (resigned 30 June 2006), 
are not classed as Independent Directors.  The Board maintains 
however, that their individual and combined industry experience 
and  knowledge  of  international  and  domestic  trends  in  the 
collection  industry  are  invaluable  to  the  Company.    Directors’ 
experience and shareholdings are provided in greater detail on 
pages 23 to 25 of the Directors’ Report.

 2.2 and 2.4 The Chairperson should be an 
Independent Director

 While the Chairman of the Board, John Pearce and the previous 
Chairman,  Dennis  Punches,  are  not  classed  as  independent 
(Recommendations 2.2 and 2.4), their experience and knowledge 
of  the  industry,  both  individually  and  collectively,  coupled  with 
their  ability  to  lead,  have  enabled  both  of  them  to  be,  and 
continue  to  be,  a  valuable  and  effective  Chairman  and  Deputy 
Chairman  respectively  of  the  Board  and  in  the  case  of  John 
Pearce,  a  member  of  the  Remuneration  Committee  and  in 
the  case  of  Dennis  Punches,  Chairman  of  the  Nominations 
Committee, with a scope well beyond that of other candidates, 
at either a national or international level. 

 As noted, Tony Aveling is not deemed to be independent by virtue 
of	his	role	as	MD/CEO	of	the	Company.	

 Notwithstanding,  the  Board  does  not  consider  there  are  any 
matters that may materially interfere with the exercise by John 
Pearce,  Dennis  Punches  and  Tony  Aveling  of  unfettered  and 
independent judgment.

 The  appointment  of  Barrie  Adams,  in  June  2003,  as  Lead 
Independent  Director  coupled  with  the  remaining  Independent 
Non-executive  Directors,  ensures  that  the  Board  can  operate 
independently of Executive Management and provides for special 
professional expertise.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 2.1, 2.4 and 2.6

12

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
	
	The	 Board	 is	 responsible	 for	 approving	 the	 MD/CEO	 financial	
and  non-financial  performance  objectives  and  for  evaluating 
the	performance	of	the	MD/CEO	against	those	objectives.		The	
MD/CEO	oversees	the	process	of	objective	setting	for	Executive	
Management  and  monitors  the  performance  of  Executive 
Management against those objectives.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendation 1.2

i)  Review of Board and Committee performance

 The Board undertakes an annual review of its performance and 
of  the  performance  of  the  Chairman,  individual  Directors  and 
Board Committees.

 The performance review process is facilitated internally, and can 
include interviews with Directors and written surveys of Directors, 
Executive Management and the Company Secretary and General 
Counsel.  These  reviews  are  conducted  in  accordance  with  the 
Company’s  performance  evaluation  process  for  Directors  and 
Executive  Management.  The  Chairman  formally  discusses  the 
results with individual Directors and Committee chairs. 

 The Chairman is reviewed by his fellow Directors adjudging his 
performance and contributions to the Board, Board discussions, 
leadership,  and  in  guiding  and  assisting  the  Board  to  comply 
with its charter.

 A performance evaluation of the Directors and Senior Executives 
consistent  with  the  approach  above  has  occurred  during  the 
reporting period.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 2.5, 2.6 and 8.1

j)  Nomination and appointment of new Directors

 The  Nominations  Committee  considers  and  makes 
recommendations  for  nominations  of  new  Directors  to  the 
Board  as  a  whole  and  operates  in  accordance  with  its  Board 
approved  charter,  a  summary  of  which  is  available  from  the 
corporate  governance  section  of  the  Company’s  website  at 
‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’.

 New  Directors  receive  a  letter  of  appointment,  which  sets 
out  their  duties,  the  terms  and  conditions  of  appointment 
including expected term of appointment, remuneration and the 
expectations  of  the  role.    This  letter  conforms  with  ASXCGC’s 
Principles and Recommendations.

 If  the  Board  appoints  a  new  Director  during  the  year,  that 
person  will  stand  for  election  by  shareholders  at  the  next 
Annual General Meeting (AGM).  Shareholders are provided with 
relevant background information on the candidates for election.  
The Nominations Committee reviews appointment criteria from 
time  to  time  and  makes  recommendations  concerning  the 
re-election of any Director by shareholders.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendation 2.4

k)  Board access to information and advice

 All  Directors  have  unrestricted  and  unfettered  access  to 
Company records and information and receive regular detailed 
financial and operational reports from Executive Management to 
enable them to carry out their duties. 

 The  Chairman  and  other  Non-executive  Directors  regularly 
consult	 with	 the	 MD/CEO,	 the	 CFO,	 Company	 Executives,	 the	
Company Secretary and General Counsel.  In addition, Directors 
may consult with, and request additional information from, any 
of our employees.

 The  Board  collectively,  and  each  Director  individually,  has  the 
right to seek independent professional advice, at the Company’s 
expense, to help them carry out their responsibilities.  While the 
Chairman’s prior approval is needed, it may not be unreasonably 
withheld  and,  in  the  Chairman’s  absence,  Board  approval  may 
be sought.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendation 2.1 and 2.6

l)  Company Secretary

 Our  Company  Secretary  is  Michael  Watkins,  who  combines 
his  role  as  Company  Secretary  and  as  General  Counsel  of  the 
Company.    Michael  is  also  a  Solicitor  Director  of  Jones  King 
Lawyers Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

 Michael joined us in 2000 as General Counsel and was appointed 
to his present role as Company Secretary and General Counsel 
in December 2006 with responsibility for the management and 
delivery of company secretarial, legal and governance advice and 
support to the Board, executive and business.  Responsibilities 
for the secretariat function include providing advice to Directors 
and  officers  on  corporate  governance  and  regulatory  matters, 
developing  and  implementing  our  governance  framework, 
coordinating  the  completion  and  dispatch  of  the  Board  and 
Committee  Meeting  agendas  and  papers,  and  giving  practical 
effect to the Board’s and the Committees’ decisions.

 Prior to Michael’s current appointment, he practised commercial 
law  in  private  practice  from  1978  and  was  a  partner  in  his 
own  Brisbane  CBD  law  firm  from  1980,  until  accepting  the 
appointment as General Counsel of the Company in 2000.

 All Directors have access to advice from the Company Secretary 
and General Counsel at any time.

  4. Board Committees

a)  Board Committees and membership

 We  have  three  standing  Board  Committees.  The  Committee 
Charters  (available  on  our  website)  describe  their  roles  and 
powers, as approved by the Board.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

13

	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OuR REsPOnsIBIlItIEs

Corporate Governance Statement

 The three Board Committees and their membership at 30 June 2009 are set out in the table below:

Barrie Adams Bill Hiller

Barry Connelly Bill Kagel

Dennis Punches

John Pearce

Tony Coutts

Audit and Risk 
Management 
Committee

Chairman 
and Lead 
Independent 
Director

Independent 
Director

Independent 
Director	–	
resigned 30 
October 2008

Nominations 
Committee

Independent 
Director

Independent 
Director

Remuneration 
Committee

Lead 
Independent 
Director

Chairman and 
Non-independent 
Director

Non-independent 
Director

Non-
independent 
Director

Chairman and 
independent 
Director

Non-independent 
Director	–	
appointed 30 
October 2008

 Attendances of Directors at Committee meetings are set out in 
the Directors’ Report at page 25.

 ASXCGC’s Recommendations 2.6, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 8.1 and 8.2

to	 attend	 all	 Committee	 meetings,	 except	 where	 the	 MD/CEO	
has a material personal interest in a matter being considered.  
Executive  Management  and  other  selected  employees  are 
invited to attend Committee meetings as necessary.

b)  Committee procedures

How the Committees report to the Board

Composition and independence of the Committees

 Committee members are chosen for the skills, experience and 
other qualities they bring to the Committees. 

 At the next Board meeting following each Committee meeting, the 
Board is given an oral report by the Chair of each Committee.  In 
addition, all Committee minutes are tabled at Board meetings.

Exceptions to the ASXCGC’s Recommendations

 How Committees’ performance is evaluated

 The  Audit  and  Risk  Management  Committee,  on  and  from  30 
October 2008, did not consist only of Independent Non-Executive 
Directors  in  accordance  with  Recommendation  4.2.    The  Audit 
and  Risk  Management  Committee  was  until  30  October  2008, 
composed of only Independent Non-executive Directors.  On and 
from  30  October  2008,  Barry  Connelly  (Independent  Director) 
resigned, and Tony Coutts was appointed to the Audit and Risk 
Management Committee.  

 Due only to Tony Coutts’ tenure as an Executive Director, which 
concluded  on  30  June  2006,  and  the  intervening  period  of  3 
years,  Tony  is  considered  a  Non-Independent  Non-Executive 
Director.  From 30 October 2008 the Audit and Risk Management 
Committee is considered non compliant with Recommendation 
4.2.    Given  Tony  Coutts’  industry  experience  and  knowledge  of 
domestic trends in the collection industry, the Board maintains 
that  he  is,  and  will  continue  to  be,  a  valuable  and  effective 
Director in the Audit and Risk Management Committee.

 On  and  from  1  July  2009,  the  Audit  and  Risk  Management 
Committee is composed of Independent Non-Executive Directors 
and is structured in compliance with Recommendation 4.2.

Operation of the Committees and reporting to the Board

 During the year, the Board Committees meet at least annually, 
and  at  other  times  as  necessary.    Each  Committee  is  entitled 
to  the  resources  and  information  it  requires  and  has  direct 
access	to	our	employees	and	advisers.		The	MD/CEO	is	invited	

14

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 The  performance  of  Committees  is  discussed  and  reviewed 
initially  within  each  Committee  and  then  reviewed  as  part  of 
the  Board’s  performance  review.    The  performance  of  each 
Committee	 member	 (other	 than	 the	 MD/CEO)	 is	 evaluated	 as	
part of the annual review of each Director.

 ASXCGC’s Recommendation 2.5, 4.1, 4.2, 4.4, 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 8.1, 8.2 
and 8.3

c)  Audit and Risk Management Committee 

 Role of the Committee

 The  Audit  and  Risk  Management  Committee  operates  in 
accordance  with  its  Board  approved  charter,  a  copy  of  which 
is  available  from  the  corporate  governance  section  of  the 
Company’s website at ‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’.

 The Audit and Risk Management Committee oversees the risk 
profile  and  approves  our  risk  management  framework  within 
the context of the risk-reward strategy determined by the Board.  
The Committee monitors the alignment of our risk profile with 
our risk appetite.  The Committee oversees how we manage the 
risks which are relevant to our operations.

 The  determination  of  the  risk-reward  strategy 
includes 
recommendations  from  the  Audit  and  Risk  Management 
Committee,	 the	 MD/CEO	 and	 Executive	 Management	 on	 the	
parameters of our risk-reward profile and appropriate strategy.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Our Board shares oversight responsibility for risk management 
with the Audit and Risk Management Committee.

 The  Audit  and  Risk  Management  Committee,  oversees  all 
matters concerning:

	integrity	 of	
the	
reporting systems;

financial	 statements	 and	

financial	

	making	recommendations	to	the	Board	for	the	appointment	
of the external auditor;

	external	auditor’s	qualifications,	performance,	independence	
and fees;

•	

•	

	meets	separately	with	the	external	auditors	and	the	internal	
auditor at least twice a year without Executive Management 
being present;

	provides	the	internal	and	external	auditors	with	a	clear	line	
of direct communication at any time to either the Chairman 
of the Committee or the Chairman of the Board.

 The Audit and Risk Management Committee met on 7 occasions 
during the reporting year.

 The Audit and Risk Management Committee regularly updates 
the Board about its activities.

	oversight	and	performance	of	the	internal	audit	function;	

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 7.1 and 7.2

	compliance	 with	
regulatory requirements;

financial	

reporting	 and	

related	

d)  Nominations Committee

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

	reviews	 and	 approves	 the	 frameworks	 for	 managing	 our	
market, operational and compliance risk;

	determines,	 approves	 and	 reviews	
limits	 and	
conditions  that  apply  to  the  taking  of  risk,  including  the 
authority	 delegated	 by	 the	 Board	 to	 the	 MD/CEO	 and	
Executive Management;

the	

	monitors	 the	 risk	 profile,	 performance,	 capital	 levels,	
exposures  against  limits  and  management  and  control  of 
our risks;

	monitors	changes	anticipated	for	the	economic	and	business	
environment  and  other  factors  considered  relevant  to  our 
risk profile;

	reviews	 and	 monitors	 any	 related	 party	 transactions	 and	
assesses their propriety;

	oversees	the	development	and	ongoing	review	of	appropriate	
policies that support our frameworks for managing risk; 

	reviews	 significant	 issues	 that	 may	 be	 raised	 by	 internal	
audit  as  well  as  the  length  of  time  and  action  taken  to 
resolve such issues; and

•	

reviews	our	approach	to	corporate	governance.

fulfilling 

 In 
Management Committee:

its  responsibilities, 

the  Audit  and  Risk 

•	

•	

•	

•	

	receives	regular	reports	from	management,	the	internal	and	
external auditors;

	meets	with	the	internal	and	external	auditors	at	least	twice	
a year, or more frequently, if necessary;

	reviews	the	processes	the	MD/CEO	and	CFO	have	in	place	to	
support their certifications to the Board;

	reviews	any	significant	disagreements	between	the	auditors	
and  management,  irrespective  of  whether  they  have 
been resolved;

Role of the Committee

 The  Nominations  Committee  operates  in  accordance  with  its 
Board approved charter, a summary of which is available from 
the corporate governance section of the Company’s website at 
‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’. 

 The  Nominations  Committee  assists  the  Board  in  fulfilling  its 
oversight responsibility to shareholders.  The principal functions 
of the Committee are to assess the desirable competencies of 
the Board members, review Board succession plans, provide a 
framework for the evaluation process of the performance of the 
Board, individual Directors, and to make recommendations for 
the  appointment  and  removal  of  Directors.    The  Nominations 
Committee is responsible for:

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

	developing	 and	 reviewing	 policies	 on	 Board	 composition,	
strategic function and size;

	performance	 review	 process	 of	 the	 Board,	 its	 Committees	
and individual Directors;

	conducting	 an	 annual	 review	 of,	 and	 conclude	 on,	 the	
independence of each Director;

	succession	 planning	 for	 the	 Board	 including	 developing	
eligibility criteria for nominating Directors;

	developing	 and	 implementing	 induction	 programs	 for	 new	
Directors and ongoing education for existing Directors;

	recommending	appointment	of	Directors	to	the	Board;	and

	making	
and appointments.

recommendations	 on	 Board	 composition	

 The  Committee’s  policy  for  the  appointment  of  Directors  is 
to  select  candidates  whose  skills,  expertise,  qualifications, 
networks, and knowledge of the industry in which the Company 
operates and other potential markets into which it may expand, 
complement those of existing Board members.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

15

 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
OuR REsPOnsIBIlItIEs

Corporate Governance Statement

 When selecting new Directors for recommendation to the Board, 
the  Committee  reviews  prospective  Directors’  CVs,  meets  with 
them  and  speaks  with  their  referees  and  others  who  have 
previously worked with them to assess their suitability.

 The Board has also adopted a Director’s Letter of Appointment 
covering  the  matters  referred  to  in  Principle  1  of  the  ASX 
Corporate  Governance  Guidelines  ensuring  Directors  clearly 
understand their corporate duties and responsibilities.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendation 2.4

e)  Remuneration Committee

Role of the Committee

 The  Remuneration  Committee  operates  in  accordance  with 
its  Board  approved  charter,  a  copy  of  which  is  available  from 
the corporate governance section of the Company’s website at 
‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’.

 The Remuneration Committee assists the Board by reviewing and 
approving its remuneration policies and practices.  The principal 
function  of  the  Committee  is  to  assist  the  Board  in  ensuring 
that  the  Company’s  remuneration  levels  are  appropriate  and 
sufficient to attract and retain the Directors and key executives 
needed to run the Company.  The Remuneration Committee:

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

	reviews	and	approves	executive	remuneration	policy;

	reviews	 and	 makes	 recommendations	 to	 the	 Board	 on	
the	 performance	 of	 the	 MD/CEO	 against	 the	 MD/CEO’s	
corporate goals and objectives;

	makes	recommendations	to	the	Board	on	the	remuneration	
of	the	MD/CEO;

	makes	recommendations	to	the	Board	on	the	remuneration	
of  Non-executive  Directors,  taking 
into  account  the 
shareholder approved fee pool;

	approves	contracts	and	remuneration	packages	for	positions	
reporting	directly	to	the	MD/CEO;

	considers	 and	 evaluates	 the	 performance	 of	 Executive	
Management  when  making  remuneration  determinations 
and otherwise as required;

	monitors	 organisational	 structure	 and	 succession	
planning strategies;

	evaluates	 and	 reviews	 current	
and practices;

industry	 standards	

	reviews	 and	 makes	 recommendations	 to	 the	 Board	 on	
equity-based plans;

	approves	all	performance	recognition	expenditure;	and

	oversees	general	remuneration	practices	across	the	Group.

 The  Remuneration  Committee  also  reviews  and  makes 
recommendations  to  the  Board  concerning  the  recruitment, 
retention,  termination,  and  succession  planning  policies  and 
procedures	 for	 the	 MD/CEO	 and	 for	 Executive	 Management	
positions	 reporting	 directly	 to	 the	 MD/CEO.	 	 This	 process	 was	
undertaken during the reporting year.

 The Committee meets at least annually with additional meetings 
being  convened  as  required.    The  Committee  has  access  to 
Executive  Management  of  the  Company  and  may  consult 
independent remuneration consultants to benchmark our reward 
practices  and  levels  against  market  practice,  where  it  considers 
this necessary in order to effectively discharge its responsibilities.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 1.2, 1.3 and 8.1

5.  Managing Director and Chief 

Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer assurance

 The Board receives regular reports about our financial condition 
and operational results as well as that of our controlled entities.  
The	MD/CEO	and	CFO	annually	provide	formal	statements	to	the	
Board that in all material respects:

•	

	the	financial	records	of	the	Company	for	the	financial	year	
have been properly maintained in that they:

- 

- 

- 

- 

  are complete and present;

  correctly record and explain its transactions and financial 
position and performance;

  enable true and fair financial statements to be prepared 
and audited; and

  are  retained  for  seven  years  after  the  transactions 
covered by the records are completed.

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

	the	 financial	 statements	 and	 notes	 required	 by	 the	
accounting standards for the financial year comply with the 
accounting standards;

	the	 financial	 statements	 and	 notes	 for	 the	 financial	 year	
give a true and fair view of the Company’s and consolidated 
entities’ financial position and of their performance;

	any	 other	 matters	 that	 are	 prescribed	 by	 the	 Corporations	
Act  regulations  as  they  relate  to  the  financial  statements 
and notes for the financial year are satisfied; 

	the	risk	management	and	internal	compliance	and	control	
systems are sound, appropriate and operating efficiently and 
effectively; and

	that	 the	 statement	 is	 founded	 on	 a	 sound	 system	 of	 risk	
management  and  internal  compliance  and  control  which 
implements the policies adopted by the Board.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendation 4.4 and 7.3

16

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
6.  Promoting ethical and responsible 

c)  Concern reporting and whistleblowing

behaviour

a)   Our Principles for Doing Business and Code 

of Conduct

 Our Code of Conduct and Philosophy sets out the principles that 
govern  our  conduct  and  the  behaviours  that  stakeholders  can 
expect from us.

 The  Principles  apply  without  exception  to  all  Directors, 
executives, management and employees, and are aligned to our 
core values.  Our Code of Conduct and Philosophy sets out the 
seven foundation principles, namely:

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

	act	with	honesty	and	integrity;

	respect	the	law	and	act	accordingly;

	respect	confidentiality	and	do	not	misuse	information;

	act	professionally,	ethically	and	honourably;

	act	as	a	team;

	manage	conflicts	of	interest	responsibly;	and

	strive	 to	 be	 a	 good	 corporate	 citizen	 with	 the	 highest	
standards of integrity, ethics, practice, privacy and security.

 A  summary  of  the  Company’s  Code  of  Conduct  for  Directors 
and  Senior  Executives  and  our  Philosophy  are  available  from 
the corporate governance section of the Company’s website at 
‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 3.1 and 3.3

b)   Internal policies and procedures

 In  addition  to  our  Code  of  Conduct  and  Philosophy,  we 
are  committed  to  external  regulator  guidelines,  such  as 
the  Australian  Securities  and  Investments  Commission  and 
Australian  Competition  and  Consumer  Commission  Debt 
Collection Guideline: for collectors and creditors.

 We also have a number of key policies to manage our compliance 
and  human  resource  requirements.    There  is  a  range  of 
guidelines,  communications  and  training  processes  and  tools 
to support these policies.  These tools include a dynamic online 
learning module ‘Code of Conduct’ which incorporates training 
for a range of key compliance requirements.  Individual business 
units  also  have  systems  and  procedures  in  place  to  support 
Company policies.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 3.1 and 3.3

 All employees are encouraged to bring any concerns or problems 
to the attention of management, the human resources team or 
the compliance team.  This includes activities or behaviours that 
may not be in accord with our Philosophy, the Code of Conduct, 
Securities  Trading  Policy,  other  policies,  or  other  regulatory 
requirements or laws.

 In 2005, the Board introduced a Whistleblower Protection Policy 
that specifically outlines procedures for dealing with allegations 
of  improper  conduct.    Concerns  can  be  raised  in  a  number  of 
ways, including in writing, anonymously through the Company’s 
online whistleblower reporting system, or by telephone.

 Any  concerns  that  are  reported  are  assessed  and  handled  by 
the Disclosure Coordinator, in conjunction with the Company’s 
Company Secretary and General Counsel.

 The Company does not tolerate known or suspected incidents 
of  fraud,  corrupt  conduct,  adverse  behaviour,  illegal  activities 
or regulatory non-compliance, or questionable accounting and 
auditing matters by its employees.

 Nor does the Company tolerate taking reprisals against those 
who come forward to disclose such conduct.  The Company will 
take all reasonable steps to protect employees who make such 
disclosures  from  any  reprisal  or  detrimental  action  following 
the disclosure.

 ASXCGC’s Recommendations 3.1 and 3.3

d)  Securities trading policy 

 Directors  and  employees  are  restricted  from  dealing  in  our 
shares if they are in possession of inside information.  

 To highlight the importance of compliance with these requirements 
and  to  ensure  high  standards  of  conduct,  we  have  a  Securities 
Trading  Policy  which  applies  to  all  employees.    Additional 
restrictions apply for Directors and any employees who, because 
of their seniority or the nature of their position, come into contact 
with key financial or strategic information about the Company all 
or most of the time (Prescribed Employees).  Those restrictions 
limit the periods in which the Directors and Prescribed Employees 
can  trade  in  our  shares  or  other  company  securities.    Further, 
Directors  and  employees  are  not  permitted  to  trade  in  closed 
periods which operate for two months immediately preceding the 
half yearly results and the full year results respectively.

 The  periods  in  which  Directors  and  Prescribed  Employees 
can  trade  (Trading  Windows)  commence  two  business  days 
after the release of our half year and full year results (Trading 
Window  -  normally  60  days)  and  after  our  Annual  General 
Meeting (Trading Window - normally 30 days).

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

17

 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OuR REsPOnsIBIlItIEs

Corporate Governance Statement

	Directors	and	Prescribed	Employees	 must	also	notify	the	MD/
CEO  in  writing  of  their  intention  to  trade  during  those  periods 
and confirm they do not have any inside information.  Any trading 
remains  subject  to  legal  obligations  to  not  trade  while  in  the 
possession of inside information.  

 The  Corporate  Counsel  Division  monitors  the  trading  of  the 
Company’s shares by Directors and Prescribed Employees on a 
daily basis.

 Directors and senior executives may only deal in the Company 
securities outside of these times with the express prior approval 
of the Chairman or the Managing Director.

 A  summary  of  the  Securities  Trading  Policy  is  available  from 
the corporate governance section of the Company’s website at 
‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 3.2 and 3.3

7. Remuneration framework

 It is the Company’s objective to provide maximum stakeholder 
benefit from the retention of a high quality Board and Executive 
Management team by remunerating Directors and key executives 
fairly  and  appropriately  in  accordance  with  market  conditions 
and reflective of their contribution. 

 In  June  2008,  subject  to  shareholder  approval,  the  Board 
agreed	 to	 vary	 the	 MD/CEO’s	 remuneration	 and	 employment	
agreement	to	include	certain	additional	share	options.		The	MD/
CEO’s variation of his remuneration and employment agreement 
and  the  grant  of  additional  share  options  were  approved  by 
shareholders  at  the  Company’s  Annual  General  Meeting  in 
October  2008.    Details  of  the  share  options  are  set  out  in  the 
Remuneration Report.  

 In  June  2008,  certain  additional  share  options  were  issued  to 
eligible  senior  employees  under  the  Executive  Share  Option 
Plan previously approved by shareholders at the Annual General 
Meeting of the Company in October 2007.  Details of the share 
options are set out in the Remuneration Report.

 No  Directors  participate  in  share  plans.    Non-executive 
Directors receive only cash compensation and reimbursement 
of expenses for their services.

 For additional information relating to the Company’s remuneration 
practices  and  details  relating  to  Directors’  and  executives’ 
remuneration during the year, refer to the Directors’ Report.

 Details  of  our  remuneration  framework  are  included  in  the 
Remuneration Report.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3

 The expected outcomes of this remuneration philosophy are:

8. Market disclosure

•	

•	

•	

	retention	and	motivation	of	key	executives;

	attraction	 and	 retention	 of	 quality	 management	 to	 the	
Company; and

	performance	incentives	which	allow	executives	to	share	the	
rewards of the success of the Company.

 The Board is keen to encourage equity holdings by employees 
to  align  staff  interests  with  those  of  shareholders.    Many 
employees  have  participated  in  the  Company’s  vario  us  share 
and option plans from time to time.

 In  February  2007,  the  shareholders  approved  certain  share 
options	 in	 favour	 of	 the	 MD/CEO	 as	 part	 of	 his	 employment	
agreement.    Details  of  the  share  options  are  set  out  in  the 
Remuneration Report.

 In  June  2007,  certain  share  options  were  issued  to  eligible 
senior  employees  under  an  Executive  Share  Option  Plan.  
Details  of  the  Executive  Share  Option  Plan  were  presented, 
ratified and approved by the shareholders at the Annual General 
Meeting of the Company in October 2007.  The Board considers 
that  the  composition  of  executive  remuneration  and  equity 
related staff incentive plans are the domain of the Board and the 
MD/CEO,	subject	to	meeting	the	Company’s	statutory	and	ASX	
Listing Rule disclosure obligations.

 We are committed to maintaining a level of disclosure that meets 
the highest standards and provides all investors with timely and 
equal  access  to  information.    In  achieving  these  standards  we 
have  a  Board  approved  Continuous  Disclosure  Policy,  which 
governs how we communicate with our shareholders and with 
the investment community.

 The  policy  reflects  the  ASX  continuous  disclosure  obligations.  
The  policy  spells  out  that  information  which  a  reasonable 
person would expect to have a material effect on the price of the 
Company’s  securities,  must  be  immediately  disclosed,  subject 
to certain exceptions.

 The Board is primarily responsible for:

•	

•	

	making	 decisions	 on	 what	 should	 be	 disclosed	 publicly	
under the market disclosure policy, and for developing and 
maintaining  relevant  guidelines,  including  guidelines  on 
information that may be price sensitive; and

	for	 ensuring	 compliance	 with	 the	 continuous	 disclosure	
requirements  of  the  listing  rules  of  the  ASX,  relevant 
securities and corporations legislation, and overseeing and 
coordinating information disclosure to regulators, analysts, 
brokers, shareholders, the media and the public.

18

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

	
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 All market announcements are released to the ASX first in time.

10. 

 Health and safety

 We  also  publish  on  our  website  the  Annual  Reports,  profit 
announcements,  presentations,  notices  of  meetings  and 
media releases.

 A  copy  of  the  Continuous  Disclosure  Policy  is  available  from 
the corporate governance section of the Company’s website at 
‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 5.1, 5.2 and 6.1

9.  Shareholder communications 

and participation

 We are also committed to giving all shareholders comprehensive, 
timely  and  equal  access  to  information  about  our  activities  so 
that they can make informed investment decisions.

 The Board aims to ensure that shareholders are informed of all 
information necessary to assess the performance of the Company. 
Information is communicated to the shareholders through:

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

	the	Annual	Report	which	is	distributed	to	all	shareholders	
via the Company’s website or a printed version upon request 
(other than those who elect not to receive it);

	the	Annual	General	Meeting	and	other	shareholder	meetings	
called to obtain approval for Board action, as appropriate;

	making	available	all	information	released	to	the	Australian	
Stock  Exchange  on  the  Company’s  website  immediately 
following confirmation of receipt by the ASX;

	ensuring	 all	 press	 releases	 and	 investor	 presentations	
issued by the Company are posted on the Company’s website 
as soon as it is disclosed to the ASX;

	encouraging	 active	 participation	 by	 shareholders	 at	
shareholder meetings;

	actively	 encouraging	 shareholders	 to	 provide	 their	 email	
address to facilitate more timely and effective communication 
with shareholders at all times;

	contacting	 shareholders	 who	 have	 provided	 their	 email	
addresses directly to provide details of upcoming events of 
interest; and 

	encouraging	 all	 shareholders	 who	 are	 unable	 to	 attend	
general meetings to communicate issues or ask questions 
by writing to the Company.

of	

copy	

approved	 Shareholder	
	A	
the	 Board	
Communications  Guidelines 
the 
is  available 
corporate governance section of the Company’s website at 
‘www.collectionhouse.com.au’.

from 

 The Company aims to provide and maintain a safe and healthy 
work environment within all operations. 

 The  Company  acts  to  meet  this  commitment  by  implementing 
work  practices  and  procedures  throughout  the  Company  that 
comply with the relevant regulations governing workplace health 
and safety.

 Employees  are  expected  to  take  all  practical  measures  to 
ensure a safe and healthy working environment in keeping with 
their defined responsibilities and the relevant regulations.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 3.1 and 3.3

11. 

 International financial reporting 
standards (IFRS)

 The  Australian  Accounting  Standards  Board  (AASB)  has 
adopted International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for 
application to reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 
2005.  The AASB has issued Australian equivalents to IFRS. 

 The  Company  adopted  the  Australian  equivalents  to  IFRS 
financial  statements  since 
in 
31 December 2006. 

its  consolidated  entity’s 

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 3.1 and 3.3

12.  Carbon Emissions Trading

 Collection House is committed to reducing its energy consumption 
and  carbon  emissions.    In  this  regard,  Collection  House  has 
reviewed  its  business  operations  and  obligations  under  the 
prevailing Environmental legislation to determine whether it is 
required to establish a Carbon Emissions Trading Scheme.

 Based on the prescribed reporting thresholds contained in the 
current  law,  Collection  House  does  not  have  an  obligation  to 
report to the relevant regulators as its energy consumption and 
carbon emissions do not exceed the specified thresholds.

 Notwithstanding,  Collection  House  has  taken  initiatives  to 
reduce its carbon footprint with the relocation of our Head Office 
to a 6 Star, Green Star rated building in Brisbane.

  ASXCGC’s Recommendations 6.1 and 6.2

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

19

 
 
 
 
 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIREctORs' REPORt

The directors present their report on the consolidated entity (referred to hereafter as the Company or the Group, as the context requires) 
consisting of Collection House Limited and the entities it controlled for the financial year ended 30 June, 2009.

Directors

The following persons were directors of Collection House Limited during the whole of the financial period and up to the date of this report, 
unless stated otherwise:

John Pearce

Dennis Punches

Tony Aveling

Barrie Adams

Tony Coutts

Barry Connelly

Bill Hiller

Bill Kagel

See pages 23 to 25 for information on the directors.

Principal activities

The  principal  activities  of  the  Group  during  the  financial  year  were  the  provision  of  debt  collection  services  and  receivables 
management throughout Australasia and the purchase of debt by its special purpose subsidiary Lion Finance Pty Ltd.  

Dividends paid to members during the financial year 

Final ordinary dividend for the year ended 30 June, 2008 of 2.5 cents fully franked  
(2007 - 2 cents unfranked) per fully paid share paid on 28 November 2008.

Interim ordinary dividend for the year ended 30 June, 2009 of 2.3 cents fully franked  
(2008 - 2.2 cents fully franked) per fully paid share paid on 27 March, 2009.

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

2,433

2,238

4,671

1,946

2,141

4,087

In addition to the above dividends, since the end of the financial year, the directors have recommended the payment of a final fully franked 
ordinary dividend of $2.5 million (2.6 cents per fully paid share) to be paid on 27 November 2009 out of retained profits as at 30 June 2009.

20

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

DIREctORs' REPORt

Review of operations

A summary of consolidated revenues and results by significant industry segments is set out below:

Revenue

Results

Collection Services

Account Asset Management

Intersegment eliminations

Discontinued operations

Unallocated revenue less unallocated expenses

Profit before income tax expense

Income tax expense

Profit for the year

Less:	Profit	/	(loss)	attributable	to	minority	interest

Profit	/	(loss)	attributable	to	members	of	 
Collection House Limited

30 June
2009
$’000

36,043

71,313

(5,419)

219

30 June
2008
$’000

34,465

64,183

(3,152)

16,213

30 June
2009
$’000

7,230

17,366

(6,005)

219

(7,832)

10,978

(3,124)

7,854

-

30 June
2008
$’000

5,704

15,966

(5,918)

11,327

(10,795)

16,284

(3,896)

12,388

1

7,854

12,387

Comments on the operations and the results of those operations are as follows: 

Results

Excluding exceptional items, net profit after tax was $7.4 million compared with $7.5 million for the corresponding period.  Net profit after 
tax for the year was $7.9 million compared to $12.4 million for the corresponding period. 

Total income from continuing operations ordinary activities increased by $6.5 million up to $102 million (2008: $95.5 million). 

Revenue from the Purchased Debt segment grew up 11.1% to $71.3 million. Revenue from commission collections grew 4.9% to $32.1 million. 
The company anticipates growing its commission collections services segment in 2010.

EBITDA for the year (before fair value adjustments and impairment) was up by 7.2% to $47.9 million (2008: $44.7 million).

Basic earnings per share excluding discontinued operations (“EPS”) were 7.9 cents (2008: 4.0 cents).

The  decreased  profit  after  tax  attributable  to  members  reflects  the  impact  of  the  disposal  of  non-core  businesses  in  the  previous  year. 
Excluding this item, profit after tax from continuing operations has increased by 104.8%, reflecting tight cost control and efficiencies from the 
restructuring process that the company has undertaken in the past two years.

Assets and liabilities

Consolidated net assets have increased from $84.3 million to $88.0 million predominantly due to growth in the purchased debt portfolio, 
new assets acquired in the move to Green Square, and the absence of a bank overdraft at 30 June 2009. Net assets for the prior year have 
changed as a result of a prior period correction to the way that employee expenses are accounted for, as disclosed in note 5 of the financial 
statements.

In September 2008, Colpro Pty Ltd a non-core business was sold, making a small profit.  A number of non-trading entities within the group 
were	voluntarily	deregistered	in	the	financial	year	2008/2009.		See	note	39	for	details.	

During the reporting period new debt portfolios were purchased for A$33.3 million and NZ$2.1 million in the Australian and New Zealand 
markets respectively, which was funded from operating cash flow and an increase in long term bank debt.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

21

DIREctORs' REPORt

Cash flow

The consolidated cash flow from operating activities (including discontinued operations) was $40.6 million for the year compared to $38.3 
million for the previous year, an increase of 6.2%.

The Board has confirmed its confidence in the Group’s current and future trading position.  The directors have recommended the payment of 
a final fully franked ordinary dividend as stated on page 20.

Significant changes in the state of affairs 

Significant changes in the state of affairs of the Group during the financial year were as follows:

(a) in Australia, the Group purchased new debt portfolios for A$33.3 million;

(b) in New Zealand, the Group purchased new debt portfolios for NZ$2.1 million;

(c) Colpro Pty Ltd (a non core business) was sold; and

(d)  the Group successfully relocated its Head Office operations to Green Square North Tower, St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane as 
planned with no delays. The new premises comprising two floors (3,952 m2) has consolidated the Group’s 300 Brisbane-based staff in one 
building, providing the Group room to continue on its current strong growth path.

Exceptional items

Summary of movements in exceptional items:

Items

Gain on the divestment of subsidiaries

Qld State Office of Revenue (1)

Restructuring costs(2)

Exceptional	Profits/(losses)

Before income tax($m’s)

After income tax($m’s)

2009

-

1.3

(0.7)

0.7

2008

10.4

(2.4)

(1.9)

6.1

2009

-

0.9

(0.4)

0.5

2008

8.0

(1.8)

(1.3)

4.9

(1)All aspects of the Stamp Duties issue as reported previously have been resolved with the Office of State Revenue, Queensland. The issue 
was finalised with a final settlement payment of $1.2 million before income tax. The settlement results in the provision raised at 30 June 2008 
being cleared, including the write back of overprovided expenses as set out in note 9 to the financial statements.

(2)Excess  existing  restructuring  provisions  were  written  back  to  profit  as  no  longer  required  on  completion  of  that  stage  of  restructuring. 
Additional  restructuring  provisions  were  raised  during  the  year  for  new  restructuring  activities.  The  net  impact  after  tax  was  a  negative 
expense $0.4 million. Further details are set out in note 24 to the financial statements.

Prior period correction

At the Company’s election, an adjustment has been made to employee expenses to correct prior period errors. The adjustment was posted 
against the opening balance of retained earnings. Refer note 5 of the financial statements.

22

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

DIREctORs' REPORt

Matters subsequent to the end of the financial year

The directors have recommended the payment of a final fully franked ordinary dividend of $2.5 million (2.6 cents per fully paid share) to be paid 
on 27 November 2009 out of retained profits as at 30 June 2009.

Other than the matters discussed above, no matter or circumstance has arisen since 30 June 2009 that has significantly affected, or may 
significantly affect:

(a) the Group’s operations in future financial years, or 

(b) the results of those operations in future financial years, or

(c) the Group’s state of affairs in future financial years.    

Likely developments and expected results of operations 

There were no likely developments in the operations of the Group from time to time that have not been finalised at the date of this report.

Further information on likely developments in the operations of the Group and the expected results of operations have not been included in 
this report because the directors believe it would be likely to result in unreasonable prejudice to the Company or the Group.

Environmental regulation

The  Group’s  operations  are  not  regulated  by  any  significant  environmental  regulation  under  a  law  of  the  Commonwealth  or  of  a  state 
or territory.

Information on directors as at 30 June 2009

John Pearce

Experience

Chairman. Age 64

Co-founder of Collection House Limited.  Appointed to the Board in April 1993. In April 2003, Mr Pearce returned 
to  former  position  of  Managing  Director  and  Chief  Executive  Officer  which  had  been  held  from  mid  1998  until 
December  2002.  Stepped  down  as  Chief  Executive  Officer  effective  30  June  2005  and  was  appointed  Managing 
Director  and  Deputy  Chairman  effective  1  July  2005.    Resigned  as  Managing  Director  on  26  October  2006.  
Re-elected Director 26 October 2007.   Appointed Chairman of the Board effective 25 June 2009.  Member of the 
International Fellowship of Certified Collectors.  Chairman of Financial Basics Foundation 2002 to 2007.  Board 
Member of The Rutherglen Cemetery Foundation.  Director, Brisbane Lions Foundation.  

Special responsibilities Mr Pearce is a member of the Remuneration Committee.

Interest in Shares and 
Options (direct & indirect)

11,416,130 ordinary shares in Collection House Limited
Nil options

Dennis Punches

Deputy Chairman. Age 73

Qualifications

Experience

BSC

Appointed  to  the  Board  in  July  1998,  and  in  2000  was  appointed  as  Chairman  of  Collection  House  Limited. 
Re-elected Director 26 October 2007. Stepped down as Chairman to become Deputy Chairman effective 25 June 
2009.  Former Director of Attention LLC Inc, Analysis and Technology Inc, and co-founder and former Chairman 
of Payco American Corporation.  Co-Chairman of the International Collectors Group and a Trustee for Wisconsin’s 
Carroll College.  

Special responsibilities Mr Punches is also the Chairman of the Nomination Committee and a member of the Remuneration Committee.

Interest in shares and 
options (direct & indirect)

17,857,384 ordinary shares in Collection House Limited
Nil options

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

23

DIREctORs' REPORt

Tony Aveling

Qualifications

Experience

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. Age 65

SFFin, FAIM, FAICD

46  years  in  the  financial  services  industry  including  34  years  at  Westpac  Banking  Corporation.  Senior  positions 
included  Chief  Executive  Business  and  Private  Banking,  Managing  Director  &  Chief  Executive  Officer  Australian 
Guarantee Corporation Limited, and General Manager Europe.  3 years as Chief Executive Officer Australian Bankers’ 
Association.  Is a Senior Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (SFFin), a Fellow of the Australian 
Institute of Management (FAIM), a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (FAICD), and a graduate 
of the Advanced Management Program of the Harvard Business School. Honorary Governor Science Foundation for 
Physics within the University of Sydney.  Resigned as Director of Global MoneyLine Limited (March 2008).
In  October  2008,  the  Shareholders  approved  the  issue  of  a  further  2,000,000  share  options  in  favour  of  Mr 
Aveling as part of his varied employment agreement.  The full terms of the options are contained in the Notice 
of  General  Meeting  announcement  to  shareholders  on  19  September  2008.    For  details  see  note  41  of  the 
financial statements.  

Interest in shares and 
options (direct & indirect)

449,400 ordinary shares in Collection House Limited
400,000 options

Barrie Adams

Qualifications

Experience

Lead Independent Director. Age 64

PSM, FCPA

Appointed  to  the  Board  in  November  2002  as  Independent  Lead  Director  and  Chairman  of  the  Audit  and  Risk 
Management Committee in January 2003. Chairman of Financial Basics Foundation and associated companies.  
Director of Ingeus Limited.  Appointed Chairman, Infocus Wealth Management Ltd and its subsidiaries (December 
2008). Resigned as Director of Steel Foundations Limited and associated companies and Nuplant Ltd (June 2009).  
Resigned as Director of Pro Super Holdings (October 2006).  Resigned as a Member of Nominations Committee 
(October 2007).

Special Responsibilities Mr  Adams  is  the  Chairman  of  the  Audit  and  Risk  Management  Committee  and  a  member  of  the 

Remuneration Committee.  

Interest in shares and 
options (direct & indirect)

Nil ordinary shares in Collection House Limited  
Nil options

Tony Coutts

Experience

Non-Executive Director (Independent Director as at 1 July 2009). Age 50

General Manager of Collection House Limited from 1995 to 1998. Appointed an Executive Director in September 
1998 with executive responsibilities as Director of Sales. Non-Executive Director from 1 July 2006. 18 years in the 
finance and insurance industry (Australian Guarantee Corporation Ltd).  13 years in the debt collection industry, 
the last 11 of which were spent at Collection House.  

Special responsibilities Mr Coutts was appointed a Member of the Audit and Risk Management Committee 30 October 2008.

Interest in shares and 
options (direct & indirect)

4,464,600 ordinary shares in Collection House Limited
Nil options

Barry Connelly

Independent Director. Age 69

Qualifications

Experience

BJ

Appointed to the Board in June 2003. Charter member of the Board of NASDAQ listed company, First Advantage, 
Board  Member  of  privately  held  Microbilt  Corp.  of  Kenesaw,  GA.    Appointed  Director  of  Huaxia  D  &  B  China 
in  November  2008.    Retired  President  of  the  International  Consumer  Data  Industry  Association  and  former 
member of the Texas House of Representatives. Past board member of the Merchants Research Council, Charter 
Bank Willowbrook.

Special responsibilities Mr Connelly is a Member of the Nominations Committee.  

Interest in shares and 
options (direct & indirect)

77,143 ordinary shares in Collection House Limited
Nil options

24

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

DIREctORs' REPORt

Bill Hiller

Experience

Independent Director.  Age 70

Appointed to the Board June 2003. 40 years experience in the automotive finance industry including as General 
Manager - Automotive Finance for St George Bank Limited.

Special responsibilities Mr Hiller is a Member of the Audit and Risk Management and Nominations Committees.

Interest in shares and 
options (direct & indirect)

93,000 ordinary shares in Collection House Limited
Nil options

Bill Kagel

Experience

Independent Director. Age 72

Appointed to the Board in February 2000. Over 40 years debt collection industry experience. Co-founder and Senior 
Vice President of Payco American Corporation, USA and former Director of Outsourcing Solutions Inc.

Special responsibilities Mr Kagel is Chairman of the Remuneration Committee.

Interest in shares and 
options (direct & indirect)

951,269 ordinary shares in Collection House Limited
Nil options

Company secretary

The  Company  Secretary  to  30  June,  2009  was  Michael  Watkins.    Mr  Watkins  was  appointed  to  the  position  of  Company  Secretary  on  21 
December  2006.    Before  joining  Collection  House  Limited,  Michael  Watkins  was  in  practice  as  a  commercial  lawyer  from  1978  and  as  a 
partner  in  his  own  Brisbane  CBD  law  firm  from  1980,  until  accepting  the  appointment  as  General  Counsel  of  the  Company  in  2000.    Mr 
Watkins undertakes the combined roles of General Counsel and Company Secretary for Collection House Limited and its subsidiaries.  

Meetings of directors

The numbers of meetings of the Company’s board of directors and of each board committee held during the year ended 30 June 2009, and 
the numbers of meetings attended by each director were:

2009

Full meetings of 
directors

Audit and Risk Management

Nomination

Remuneration

Meetings of committees

Dennis Punches

John Pearce

Tony Aveling 

Barrie Adams

Tony Coutts

Barry Connelly

Bill Hiller

Bill Kagel

A

6

6

6

6

6

6

6

6

B

6

6

6

6

6

6

6

6

A

**

**

**

7

5

2

7

**

B

**

**

**

7

4

Appointed 

30/10/2008

2

Resigned 

30/10/2008

7

**

A

1

**

**

**

**

1

1

**

B

1

**

**

**

**

1

1

**

A

2

2

**

2

**

**

**

2

B

2

2

**

2

**

**

**

2

A   Number of meetings attended

B   Number of meetings held during the time the director held office or was a member of the committee during the year

**   Not a member of the relevant committee

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

25

DIREctORs' REPORt   

Remuneration Report

The remuneration report is set out under the following main headings:

A 

B 

C 

D 

E 

 Principles used to determine the nature and amount of remuneration

 Details of remuneration

Service agreements

Share-based compensation

Additional information.

The information provided in this remuneration report has been audited as required by Section 308(3C) of the Corporations Act 2001.

A 

 Principles used to determine the nature and amount of remuneration (audited)

The objective of the Group’s executive reward framework is to ensure reward for performance is competitive and appropriate for the results 
delivered.  The framework aligns executive reward with achievement of strategic objectives and the creation of value for shareholders, and 
conforms with market practice for delivery of reward.  The Board ensures that executive reward satisfies the following key criteria for good 
reward governance practices:

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

competitiveness and reasonableness

acceptability to shareholders

performance	linkage	/	alignment	of	executive	compensation

transparency

capital management.

In consultation with key members of the Board who have many years industry operational experience and the General Manager - Human 
Resources, the Group has structured an executive remuneration framework that is market competitive and complementary to the reward 
strategy of the organisation.

Alignment to shareholders’ interests:

•	

•	

has economic profit as a core component of plan design;

 focuses on sustained growth in shareholder wealth, consisting of dividends and growth in share price, and delivering constant return on 
assets as well as focusing the executive on key non-financial drivers of value; and

•	

attracts and retains high calibre executives.

Alignment to program participants’ interests:

•	

•	

•	

•	

rewards capability and experience;

reflects competitive reward for contribution to growth in shareholder wealth;

provides a clear structure for earning rewards; and

provides recognition for contribution.

The framework provides a mix of fixed and variable pay, and a blend of short and long term incentives.  As executives gain seniority with the 
group, the balance of this mix shifts to a higher proportion of ‘’at risk’’ rewards.

Directors’ fees 

Fees and payments are reviewed annually by the Remuneration Committee.  The Committee’s recommendations are forwarded for approval 
by the Board.  

26

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

DIREctORs' REPORt

Non-Executive Directors

Fees and payments to non-executive directors reflect the demands which are made on, and the responsibilities of, the directors.  

Payments are allowed for additional responsibilities for Board Chairmanship, Deputy Chairmanship, the Lead Independent Director role and 
for membership of Board Committees.  Mr John Pearce, appointed as Chairman on 25 June 2009 receives a non-executive director’s fee of 
$50,000 per annum plus superannuation from 1 July 2009 but is not currently drawing any additional fees for being Chairman of the Collection 
House Group.  Mr Pearce intends to use his director’s fees to purchase shares in the Company.  Dennis Punches, Deputy Chairman as at 
25 June 2009, receives an annual fee of $50,000 per annum inclusive of being Chair of the Nominations Committee.  Barrie Adams, as Lead 
Independent Director, receives an annual fee of $100,000.  Mr Adams’ fee is comprised of a $60,000 director’s fee, (including $10,000 being 
a fee as Lead Independent Director), and $40,000 as Chairman of the Audit and Risk Management Committee.  Bill Kagel, as Chair of the 
Remuneration Committee, has waived the fee normally due to him for this role.  

Non executive directors’ fees are determined within an aggregate directors’ fee pool limit, which is periodically recommended for approval by 
shareholders.  Non-executive directors do not receive share options.

Executive Directors

Tony	Aveling	was	appointed	as	Managing	Director	and	Chief	Executive	Officer	(MD/CEO)	on	27	November	2006	with	a	projected	end	date	being	
28 February 2009.  On 26 June 2008, subject to shareholder approval, the Collection House Board agreed to vary Mr Aveling’s employment 
for no fixed term and Mr Aveling’s Remuneration and Employment Agreement (Agreement) was varied accordingly on 28 August 2008.  Mr 
Aveling’s Agreement was approved by shareholders at the Company’s Annual General Meeting on 31 October 2008.  A summary of the varied 
remuneration package is set out in section C of the remuneration report.

Executive pay

The executive pay and reward framework has three components:

•	

base pay and short term incentive (STI);

•	

long term incentives through participation in the Executive Share Option Plan, and

•	

other remuneration such as superannuation.  

The combination of these comprises the executive’s total remuneration.

Base pay

Structured  as  a  total  employment  cost  package  which  may  be  delivered  as  a  combination  of  cash  and  prescribed  non-financial  benefits 
at  the  executives’  discretion.    Executives  are  offered  a  competitive  base  pay  that  comprises  the  fixed  component  of  pay  and  rewards.  
External remuneration consultants provide analysis and advice to ensure base pay is set to reflect the market for a comparable role.  Base 
pay  for  executives  is  reviewed  annually  to  ensure  the  executive’s  pay  is  competitive  with  the  market.    An  executive’s  pay  is  also  reviewed 
on promotion.

Short Term Incentive

A portion of an executive’s pay is by way of an “at risk” bonus. This is subject to satisfactory completion of set objectives and payable at the 
discretion	of	the	MD/CEO	in	consultation	with	the	Board.		For	the	past	year,	a	decision	was	made	to	hold	executive	base	pay	and	increase	
the “at risk” component. 

Long Term Incentive

Certain eligible employees are offered long term incentives via the Executive Share Option Plan, see section D of the remuneration report 
for details.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

27

DIREctORs' REPORt

Benefits

The major benefit provided to executives and eligible employees is the ability to participate in the Executive Share Option Plan.

Retirement allowances for Directors

There are no retirement allowances paid to non-executive directors, in line with recent guidance on non executive directors’ remuneration.  

Retirement Benefits for Executives

There are no retirement benefits made available to executives, other than as are required by statute.  

B  Details of remuneration (audited)

Amounts of remuneration

Details  of  the  remuneration  of  the  directors  and  the  key  management  personnel  (as  defined  in  AASB  124  Related  Party  Disclosures)  of 
Collection House are set out in the following tables.

The	key	management	personnel	of	the	Group	includes	Tony	Aveling	as	MD/CEO	and	the	following	executive	officers	who	have	authority	and	
responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the entity:

•	

•	

•	

•	

A. Ralston - Chief Financial Officer 

M. Thomas - Chief Operating Officer

M. Watkins - General Counsel and Company Secretary

K.	Lynam	-	General	Manager	–	Human	Resources

In addition, the following persons must be disclosed under the Corporations Act 2001 as they are among the highest remunerated Group 
and/or	Company	executives:

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

T.	Aveling	–	MD/CEO

A. Ralston - Chief Financial Officer

M.	Thomas	–	Chief	Operating	Officer	

M. Watkins - General Counsel and Company Secretary

U.	Danielian	–	Solicitor	Director,	Jones	King	Pty	Ltd	(a	subsidiary	of	the	Group)

28

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

DIREctORs' REPORt

Key management and highest paid personnel of the Group for the year ended 30 June 2009 is as follows:

Short Term Benefits

Salary 
& Fees
$

Cash 
Bonus 
$

Non-
Monetary 
Benefits
$

Post 
Employment  
Benefits

Share Based 
Payments

Other
$

Superannuation*
$

Options
$

Total
$

-

-

50,000

50,000

100,000

107,692

62,308

50,000

56,667

71,667

70,000

70,000

50,000

50,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

500,000

500,000

500,000

475,000

216,672

216,415

245,103

234,635

241,821

239,818

121,638

119,560

-

101,750

-

40,000

19,000

46,000

21,000

40,000

21,000

22,000

11,000

-

-

-

41,077

154,715

184,299

18,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

5,638

6,052

5,638

6,052

5,638

6,052

5,638

6,052

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

70,300

98,800

-

3,392

-

-

-

-

-

9,257

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

9,000

9,692

5,608

4,500

-

-

6,300

6,300

-

-

96,327

87,750

23,100

21,493

26,127

23,007

25,292

23,474

12,855

12,583

-

-

-

17,615

18,207

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

50,000

50,000

109,000

117,384

67,916

54,500

56,667

71,667

76,300

76,300

50,000

50,000

225,656

1,392,283

200,651

1,362,201

26,554

23,426

33,192

29,283

26,554

23,426

16,596

14,641

-

-

-

-

-

-

311,964

289,778

356,060

313,977

339,305

313,770

178,727

173,092

-

101,750

-

213,407

220,506

-

Name

DIRECTORS

J. Pearce **
Chairman 

D. Punches **
Deputy Chairman 

B. Adams
Lead Independent Director

T. Coutts ***
Non- Executive Director

B. Connelly
Independent Director

B. Hiller
Independent Director

B. Kagel
Independent Director

T. Aveling
Executive Director

COMPANY EXECUTIVES

A. Ralston
Chief Financial Officer

M. Thomas
Chief Operating Officer

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

M. Watkins
General Counsel and Company 
Secretary

2009

2008

K. Lynam
General Manager 
–	Human	Resources

B. Savage (Consultant to 
9 November 2007)

GROUP EXECUTIVES

K.  Hansen  
(to 21 September 2007)

U.Danielian 
Solicitor Director (Jones King 
Lawyers Pty Ltd)

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

2009

2008

* 

** 

 Superannuation of 9% was paid on cash bonuses.  The superannuation on the bonuses has been included in the superannuation figure in the table above. 

 John Pearce was appointed Chairman 25 June 2009.  Dennis Punches stepped down as Chairman to become Deputy Chairman effective 25 June 2009.   
Both held their retrospective positions from 1 July 2009 to 24 June 2009. 

***   In accordance with ASX Corporate Governance Principle and Recommendation 2.1, Tony Coutts is deemed an Independent Director from 1 July 2009. 

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

29

DIREctORs' REPORt

The relative proportions of remuneration that are fixed and linked to performance and share based options are as follows:

Name

1. T. Aveling

2. A. Ralston

3. M. Thomas

4. M. Watkins

5. K. Lynam

6. B. Savage (Consultant) (1 July 2007 to 9 November 2007)

C 

Service agreements (audited) 

% Performance based

% Fixed 

2009

2008

2009

55.4

22.4

23.4

20.7

22.4

-

52.7

15.2

16.6

14.8

15.4

-

44.6

77.6

76.6

79.3

77.6

-

2008

47.3

84.8

83.4

85.2

84.6

100.0

Remuneration	 and	 other	 terms	 of	 employment	 for	 the	 MD/CEO	 and	 other	 key	 management	 personnel	 are	 also	 formalised	 in	 service	
agreements.  Except as otherwise stated, all contracts with executives may be terminated early by either party with three months notice.  
Major provisions of the agreements relating to remuneration are set out below.

T. Aveling 
MD/CEO

Deed of Variation of  
Employment  Agreement

On	 26	 June	 2008,	 the	 Collection	 House	 Board	 agreed	 to	 vary	 the	 MD/CEO’s	
remuneration package, subject to shareholder approval.  This approval was given at 
the AGM on 31 October 2008. 

Annual base salary

$500,000 plus superannuation.

Living away from home

Up to $2,000 per week (ceased on 27 February 2009).

Performance cash bonus

Maximum level of $500,000 plus superannuation.

(Objectives as agreed by the 
Board)

Options

At  the  year  end,  the  Board  was  provided  with  the  financial  and  non-financial 
information	 relating	 to	 the	 MD/CEO’s	 performance.	 The	 key	 objective	 related	 to	
Collection  House  profitability.  Supporting  objectives  covered  leadership,  sales, 
stakeholder  relationships,  recruitment,  trade  debtors,  organisational  structure, 
succession  planning,  funding,  premises,  book  quality,  compliance  and  regulatory 
obligations. Based on this information, the Board determined the level of STI to be 
made	to	the	MD/CEO.	For	the	year	ended	30	June	2009,	the	Board	determined	that	
the	MD/CEO’s	STI	payment	would	be	$500,000	plus	superannuation	which	is	100%	
of the payment target specified in his contract. The payment was calculated based 
on performance against objectives and the Board’s exercise of discretion.

In accordance with the variation of Employment Agreement approved by the Board 
on  28  August  2008,  a  further  2,000,000  options  were  approved  and  granted  on  31 
October  2008  after  shareholder  approval.    Each  component  tranche  is  subject 
to  certain  conditions  in  order  for  the  options  to  be  exercised.  See  note  41  for 
material terms.

A. Ralston 
Chief Financial Officer

Annual Base Salary 

$237,000 inclusive of superannuation for the year ended 30 June 2009. 

Performance cash bonus

$43,600 inclusive of superannuation was paid for the year ended 30 June 2009.

Options

Pursuant to the Executive Share Option Plan approved by shareholders in October 
2007,  a  further  200,000  options  were  issued.    Each  component  tranche  is  subject 
to  certain  conditions  in  order  for  the  options  to  be  exercised.    See  note  41  or 
further details.

30

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

DIREctORs' REPORt

M. Thomas 
Chief Operating Officer

Annual Base Salary

$267,000 inclusive of superannuation for the year ended 30 June 2009. 

Performance cash bonus

$50,140 inclusive of superannuation was paid for the year ended 30 June 2009.

Options

Pursuant to the Executive Share Option Plan approved by shareholders in October 
2007,  a  further  250,000  options  were  issued.    Each  component  tranche  is  subject 
to  certain  conditions  in  order  for  the  options  to  be  exercised.    See  note  41  for 
further details.

M. Watkins 
General Counsel and 
Company Secretary

Annual Base Salary 

$263,000 inclusive of superannuation for the year ended 30 June 2009.

Performance cash bonus

$43,600 inclusive of superannuation was paid for the year ended 30 June 2009.

Options

Pursuant to the Executive Share Option Plan approved by shareholders in October 
2007,  a  further  225,000  options  were  issued.    Each  component  tranche  is  subject 
to  certain  conditions  in  order  for  the  options  to  be  exercised.    See  note  41  for 
further details.

K. Lynam 
General Manager – 
Human Resources

Annual Base Salary 

$132,000 inclusive of superannuation for the year ended 30 June 2009.

Performance cash bonus

$23,980 inclusive of superannuation was paid for the year ended 30 June 2009.

Options

Pursuant to the Executive Share Option Plan approved by shareholders in October 
2007, a further 150,000 options were issued.  Each component tranche is subject 
to certain conditions in order for the options to be exercised.  See note 41 for 
further details.

D 

Share based compensation (audited)

Options

Options	have	been	granted	to	T.	Aveling	as	MD/CEO	under	his	Employment	Agreement	(as	varied).		Options	have	also	been	granted	to	certain	
eligible employees under the Collection House Executive Share Option Plan.  

The terms and conditions of all options mentioned above affecting remuneration in the previous, this or future reporting periods are set out 
in note 41 of the financial statements.

Options granted under the Executive Share Option Plan carry no dividend or voting rights. When exercisable, each option is convertible into 
one ordinary share of Collection House.

Details of options over ordinary shares in the Company provided as remuneration to each director of Collection House and each of the key 
management personnel of the Group are set out below.  Further information on the options is set out in note 41 of the financial statements.

Name

1. T. Aveling

2. A. Ralston

3. M. Thomas

4. M. Watkins

5. K. Lynam

Number of options granted during the year

No of options vested during the year

2009

2,000,000

200,000

250,000

225,000

150,000

2008

-

-

-

-

-

2009

400,000

40,000

50,000

40,000

25,000

2008

-

-

-

-

-

The assessed fair value at grant date of options granted to the individuals is allocated over the period from grant date to vesting date, and the 
amount is included in the remuneration table in this report.  Fair values at grant date are independently determined using a modified binomial 
option pricing model that takes into account the exercise price, the term of the option, the impact of dilution, the share price at grant date and 
expected price volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield and the risk free interest rate for the term of the option.  

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

31

DIREctORs' REPORt

Shares provided on exercise of remuneration options

Details of ordinary shares in the Company provided as a result of the exercise of remuneration options to each director of Collection House 
and other key management personnel of the Group are set out below.

Name

Directors of Collection House Limited

Other key management personnel of the Group

Date of 
exercise of 
options

-

-

Number of ordinary shares issued 
on exercise of options during the 
year

Amounts paid per ordinary share

2009

2008

2009

2008

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

No shares issued on the exercise of options during the period.

E 

Additional information (audited)

Principles used to determine the nature and amount of remuneration: relationship between remuneration and company performance.

The overall level of executive reward takes into account the performance of the Group over a number of years, with greater emphasis given 
to the current and prior year.  Details of the relationship between the Company remuneration policy and company performance over the last 
5 years is detailed below.

Net profit after tax ($m’s)

Dividends Declared

Share price commenced 

Share price ended 

Basic Earnings per share (including 
discontinued operations)

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

$12.95

$6.08

$3.81

$12.39

$7.85

8 cents unfranked 2 cents unfranked

2 cents franked 4.7 cents franked 4.9 cents franked

$1.54

$1.40

$1.41

$0.975

$1.03

$0.75

$0.78

$0.46

$0.465

$0.49

13.3 cents

6.2 cents

3.9 cents

12.7 cents

8.1 cents

Details of remuneration: cash bonuses and options

For each cash bonus and grant of options included in the table on page 29, the percentage of the available bonus or grant that was paid, or 
that vested, in the financial year, and the percentage that was forfeited because the person did not meet the service and performance criteria 
is set out below.  No part of the bonuses is payable in future years.  No options will vest unless the vesting conditions are met (see note 41 
for details), hence the minimum value of the options yet to vest is nil.  The maximum value of the options yet to vest has been determined as 
the amount of the grant date fair value of the options that is yet to be expensed.

32

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

DIREctORs' REPORt

Cash bonus

Options

Name

Paid

Forfeited
%

Year 
granted

Vested
%

Forfeited
%

Lapsed
$

Financial years in which 
options may vest (subject to 
certain qualifying hurdles).  Refer 
to note 41

Minimum total 
value of grant 
yet to vest

Maximum total 
value of grant 
yet to vest

1. T. Aveling

100.0

0.0

2. A. Ralston

83.3

16.7

3. M.Thomas

85.2

14.8

4. M. Watkins

75.5

24.5

5. K. Lynam

81.5

18.5

20%

-

20%

-

20%

20%

20%

2007

2009

2007

2009

2007

2009

2007

2009

2007

2009

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Loans to directors and executives

2009 - 2011

2011 - 2013

2009 - 2011

2011 - 2013

2009 - 2011

2011 - 2013

2009 - 2011

2011 - 2013

2009 - 2011

2011 - 2013

NIL

NIL

NIL

NIL

NIL

NIL

NIL

NIL

NIL

NIL

NIL

199,600

NIL

$20,000

NIL

$25,000

NIL

$22,500

NIL

$15,000

Information on loans to directors and executives, including amounts, interest rates and repayment terms are set out in note 34 to the financial 
statements.

Shares under option

Long term incentives are provided to certain eligible employees via the Executive Share Option Plan, see note 41 for further information. 
Unissued ordinary shares of the Company under option at the date of this report are as follows:

MD/CEO	Options

Executive Share Option Plan

Date options 
granted

Number under 
option

Issue price of 
shares

12 March 2007

31 October 2008

15 June 2007

18 July 2008

2,000,000

2,000,000

1,250,000

1,437,500

$1.0327

$0.4927

$1.0327

$0.4927

No of shares 
issued 
2009

nil

nil

nil

nil

Expiry date

Refer to note 41

Refer to note 41

Refer to note 41

Refer to note 41

E 

Additional information (unaudited) 

Insurance of officers

During  the  financial  year,  Collection  House  paid  a  premium  of  $35,455  to  insure  the  directors  and  secretaries  of  the  Company  and  its 
Australian based controlled entities, and the executives of each of the divisions of the Group.

The liabilities insured are legal costs that may be incurred in defending civil or criminal proceedings that may be brought against the officers 
in their capacity as officers of entities in the Group, and any other payments arising from liabilities incurred by the officers in connection 
with such proceedings.  This does not include such liabilities that arise from conduct involving a wilful breach of duty by the officers or the 
improper use by the officers of their position or of information to gain advantage for themselves or someone else or to cause detriment to 
the Company.  It is not possible to apportion the premium between amounts relating to the insurance against legal costs and those relating 
to other liabilities.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

33

DIREctORs' REPORt

Proceedings on behalf of the Company

No person has applied to the Court under section 237 of the Corporations Act 2001 for leave to bring proceedings on behalf of the Company, 
or to intervene in any proceedings to which the Company is a party, for the purpose of taking responsibility on behalf of the Company for all 
or part of those proceedings.

No proceedings have been brought or intervened in on behalf of the Company with leave of the Court under section 237 of the Corporations 
Act 2001.

Non-audit services

The Board of Directors, in accordance with advice from the Audit and Risk Management Committee, is satisfied that the provision of the non 
audit services during the year is compatible with the general standard of independence for auditors imposed by the Corporations Act 2001.  
During the year, the Company’s auditors have performed no other non-audit or assurance services in addition to their statutory duties.  All 
other assurance services are subject to the corporate governance procedures adopted by the Company.  

Details of the amounts paid to the auditors of the Company, Hacketts DFK, are set out below.

DESCRIPTION

1. Audit services, Hacketts DFK 
Audit and review of the financial reports and other audit work under the Corporations Act 2001. 

Total remuneration for audit services 

2. Other assurance services, Hacketts DFK

Total remuneration for audit-related services

TOTAL REMUNERATION

Auditor’s independence declaration

Consolidated

30 June 2009
$

30 June 2008
$

137,000

137,000

82,050

82,500

219,050

145,000

145,000

79,000

79,000

224,000

A copy of the auditor’s independence declaration as required under section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 is set out on page 35.

Rounding of amounts

The	Company	is	of	a	kind	referred	to	in	Class	Order	98/100,	issued	by	the	Australian	Securities	and	Investments	Commission,	relating	to	the	
‘’rounding off’’ of amounts in the directors’ report.  Amounts in the directors’ report have been rounded off in accordance with that Class 
Order to the nearest thousand dollars, or in certain cases, to the nearest dollar.

Auditor

Hacketts DFK continues in office in accordance with section 327 of the Corporations Act 2001.

This report is made in accordance with a resolution of directors.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

Tony Aveling

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer 
Brisbane 
25 August 2009

34

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

auDItOR's InDEPEnDEncE DEclaRatIOn

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

35

38   Income  

Statement

3 9   Balance  

Sheet

40    Statement of 

Changes in 
Equity

41     Cash Flow 

Statement

36

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

42      Notes to the 

Financial 
Statements.

112   Directors’ 

Declaration

113  Independant  

Audit Report

Income Statement ................................ 38

Directors’ Declaration ........................ 112

Balance Sheet ....................................... 39

Independent Audit Report .................. 113

Statement of Changes in Equity .......... 40

Shareholder Information .................... 115

Cash Flow Statement ........................... 41

Notes to the Financial Statements ...... 42

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED
COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

37
37

IncOmE statEmEnt
for the year ended 30 June 2009

Revenue from continuing operations

Other income

Depreciation and amortisation expense

Other expenses

Employee expenses

Search fees

Direct collection costs

Bad and doubtful debts

Operating lease rental expense

Consultancy fees

Legal expenses

Other expenses - related parties

Impairment of other assets

Fair value losses on other financial assets

Net	gain/(loss)	on	disposal	of	property

Finance costs

Restructuring costs

Profit before income tax

Income tax expense

Profit from continuing operations

Profit from discontinued operations

Profit for the year

Profit is attributable to:

   Equity holders of Collection House Limited

   Minority Interest

Earnings per share for profit from continuing 
operations attributable to the ordinary equity holders 
of the company:

Basic earnings per share

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

Basic earnings per share

6

7

8

9

17

8,9

10

11

40

40

Consolidated

Company

Notes

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

101,959

(23)

(2,295)

(3,533)

95,497

(5)

(2,307)

(4,370)

62,940

65,446

-

(1,531)

(3,679)

-

(1,621)

(5,090)

(34,072)

(33,172)

(29,048)

(27,434)

(545)

(648)

(12,737)

(10,369)

171

(3,128)

(52)

103

-

(98)

-

19

(5,097)

(655)

6,663

5,083

11,746

-

11,746

243

(2,120)

(103)

(53)

-

(3,693)

-

(6)

(4,862)

(1,872)

7,818

3,180

10,998

13

11,011

12,387

11,746

11,011

1

-

12,388

11,746

11,011

(656)

(11,649)

132

(3,779)

(59)

102

(24)

-

(680)

(9,997)

203

(3,169)

(230)

(56)

-

-

(30,265)

(29,730)

10

(5,133)

(1,872)

4,989

(1,229)

3,760

8,628

12,388

43

(4,467)

(655)

10,759

(3,059)

7,700

154

7,854

7,854

-

7,854

Cents

Cents

7.9

8.1

4.0

12.7

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

38

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

BalancE sHEEt
as at 30 June 2009

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Receivables

Other financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Current tax receivables

Other current assets

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Other financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Receivables

Available-for-sale financial assets

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Deferred tax assets

Other non-current assets

Total non-current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Payables

Borrowings

Current tax liabilities

Provisions

Other current liabilities

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Payables

Borrowings

Provisions

Deferred tax liabilities

Other non-current liabilities

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

EQUITY

Contributed equity

Reserves

Retained profits

Minority interest

Total equity

Consolidated

Company

Notes

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

12

13

14

15

14

16

17

18

20

19

21

22

23

24

25

26

28

27

30

31(a)

31(b)

32

584

4,630

29,999

-

996

36,209

937

4,188

36,511

2,312

1,489

45,437

132

3,206

-

-

943

4,281

801

2,598

-

2,974

645

7,018

116,917

106,959

-

-

-

-

6,957

20,496

-

229

144,599

180,808

4,622

-

1,596

2,000

-

8,218

-

69,700

211

14,719

-

84,630

92,848

87,960

67,256

171

20,533

87,960

-

87,960

-

-

3,516

20,259

-

292

131,026

176,463

7,324

2,801

-

3,070

105

13,300

-

61,100

159

17,428

192

78,879

92,179

84,284

67,256

(319)

18,665

85,602

(1,318)

84,284

154,885

134,929

16,017

6,602

13,980

1,934

-

193,418

197,699

14,885

4,678

303

1,701

-

21,567

21,858

69,700

182

-

-

91,740

113,307

84,392

67,256

878

16,258

84,392

-

84,392

16,116

3,242

13,736

2,515

-

170,538

177,556

13,636

4,099

-

2,738

105

20,578

18,631

61,100

144

-

192

80,067

100,645

76,911

67,256

475

9,180

76,911

-

76,911

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

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

39

statEmEnt Of cHangEs In EquIty 
for the year ended 30 June 2009

Total equity at the beginning of the financial year

84,284

77,080

76,911

70,550

Consolidated

Company

Notes

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

Adjustment on adoption of AASB 127, net of tax, to:

   Retained profits - Minority Interest

1,32

(1,318)

-

Adjustment on correction of prior period error to:

   Retained profits - accrued wages

31

-

(909)

Restated total equity at the beginning of the 
financial year

Profit for the year

Transactions with equity holders in their capacity as 
equity holders:

Dividends provided for or paid

Movement in Share-based payments reserve

Movement in Foreign Currency translation reserve

Total changes in minority interest

33

31a

32

Total equity at the end of the financial year

Total recognised income and expense for the year is 
attributable to:

   Equity holders of Collection House Limited

   Minority interest

82,966

7,854

76,171

12,388

(4,671)

(4,088)

406

87

1,318

(2,860)

87,960

7,854

-

7,854

347

(540)

6

(4,275)

84,284

12,388

-

12,388

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

-

-

76,911

11,746

(4,671)

406

-

-

(4,265)

84,392

11,746

-

11,746

-

(909)

69,641

11,011

(4,088)

347

-

-

(3,741)

76,911

11,011

-

11,011

40

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

Consolidated

Company

Notes

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

30 June 2009
$’000

30 June 2008
$’000

105,644

109,093

41,556

42,954

casH flOW statEmEnt
for the year ended 30 June 2009

Cash flows from operating activities

Receipts from customers (inclusive of goods and 
services tax)

Payments to suppliers and employees (inclusive of 
goods and services tax)

Interest received

Other sundry income

Interest paid

Income	taxes	refund	/	(paid)

Net cash inflow (outflow) from operating activities

43

Cash flows from investing activities

Proceeds from sale of property, plant & equipment

Payments for property, plant and equipment

Payments for leasehold improvements

Payments for purchased debt

Payments for intangible assets

Payment for Legal costs capitalised

Proceeds from sale of discontinued operation

(59,042)

46,602

1,817

146

(5,203)

(2,744)

40,618

23

(2,877)

(3,551)

(34,715)

(979)

-

-

Net cash (outflow) inflow from investing activities

(42,099)

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from borrowings

Repayment of borrowings

Dividends paid to company’s shareholders

33

Net cash inflow (outflow) from financing activities

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the 
financial year

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and 
cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

12

8,600

-

(4,671)

3,929

2,448

(1,864)

-

584

(65,203)

43,890

1,477

323

(5,132)

(2,295)

38,263

-

(1,246)

(180)

(73,525)

(34)

-

31,370

(43,615)

4,900

(23)

(4,088)

789

(4,563)

2,699

(32,593)

8,963

106

-

(5,097)

(1,976)

1,996

-

(2,658)

(3,551)

-

(964)

-

-

(41,137)

1,817

287

-

(4,355)

1,568

(683)

-

(1,043)

(222)

-

(34)

-

-

(7,173)

(1,299)

8,600

-

(4,671)

3,929

(1,248)

(3,298)

4,900

-

(4,088)

812

(1,170)

(2,128)

-

-

-

(1,864)

(4,546)

(3,298)

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

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

41

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies

The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial report are set out below.  These policies have been consistently 
applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.  The financial report includes separate financial statements for Collection House 
Limited as an individual entity and the Consolidated Entity consisting of Collection House Limited and its subsidiaries.

(a)  Basis of preparation

This  general  purpose  financial  report  has  been  prepared  in  accordance  with  Australian  Accounting  Standards,  other  authoritative 
pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, Urgent Issues Group Interpretations and the Corporations Act 2001.

Compliance with IFRS

The  financial  report  of  Collection  House  Limited  also  complies  with  International  Financial  Reporting  Standards  (IFRS)  as  issued  by  the 
International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

Early adoption of standards

The Group has elected to apply the following pronouncements to the annual reporting period beginning 1 July 2008:

•	

•	

AASB 127 - The Group has elected to apply the amendments to AASB 127 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements dated March 
2008 to the annual reporting period beginning 1 July 2008. In accordance with the transitional provisions of the standard, comparatives 
have not been restated.

AASB 3 - The Group has elected to apply the amendments to AASB 3 Business Combinations dated March 2008 to the annual reporting 
period beginning 1 July 2008. In accordance with the transitional provisions of the standard, comparatives have not been restated.

This  includes  applying  the  revised  pronouncement  to  the  comparatives  in  accordance  with  AASB  108  Accounting  Policies,  Changes  in 
Accounting Estimates and Errors.  None of the items in the financial statements had to be restated as the result of applying these standards.

Historical cost convention

These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of financial assets and 
liabilities at fair value through profit or loss and certain classes of non-current assets.

Critical accounting estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with AIFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates.  It also requires 
management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies.   The areas involving a higher degree of 
judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the financial statements, are disclosed in note 3.

(b)  Principles of consolidation

(i) 

Subsidiaries

The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets and liabilities of all subsidiaries of Collection House Limited (‘’company’’ or 
‘’parent entity’’) as at 30 June 2009 and the results of all subsidiaries for the year then ended.  Collection House Limited and its subsidiaries 
together are referred to in this financial report as the Group or the consolidated entity.

Subsidiaries  are  all  those  entities  (including  special  purpose  entities)  over  which  the  Group  has  the  power  to  govern  the  financial  and 
operating policies, generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one-half of the voting rights.  The existence and effect of potential 
voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the Group controls another entity.

Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group.  They are de-consolidated from the date that 
control ceases.

The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries by the Group (refer to note 1(h)).

The Group applies a policy of treating transactions with minority interests as transactions with parties external to the Group.  Disposals to 
minority interests result in gains and losses for the Group that are recorded in the income statement.  Purchases from minority interests 

42

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(b)  Principles of consolidation (continued)

result in goodwill, being the difference between any consideration paid and the relevant share acquired of the carrying value of identifiable 
net assets of the subsidiary.

Changes  in  the  parent  company’s  ownership  interest  in  a  subsidiary  that  do  not  result  in  a  loss  of  control  are  accounted  for  as  equity 
transactions, and do not pass through the Profit and Loss.

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are eliminated.  Unrealised losses are 
also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of the impairment of the asset transferred.  Accounting policies of subsidiaries have 
been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

Minority  interests  in  the  results  and  equity  of  subsidiaries  are  shown  separately  in  the  consolidated  income  statement  and  balance 
sheet respectively.

(c)  Segment reporting

A business segment is identified for a group of assets and operations engaged in providing products or services that are subject to risks and 
returns that are different to those of other business segments.  A geographical segment is identified when products or services are provided 
within a particular economic environment subject to risks and returns that are different from those of segments operating in other economic 
environments.

(d)  Foreign currency translation

(i) 

Functional and presentation currency

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

(ii) 

Transactions and balances

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

Translation differences on assets and liabilities carried at fair value are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss.  Translation differences 
on non-monetary assets and liabilities such as equities held at fair value through profit or loss are recognised in profit or loss as part of the 
fair value gain or loss.  Translation differences on non-monetary assets such as equities classified as available-for-sale financial assets are 
included in the fair value reserve in equity.

(iii)  Group companies

The  results  and  financial  position  of  all  the  Group  entities  (none  of  which  has  the  currency  of  a  hyperinflationary  economy)  that  have  a 
functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:

•	

•	

  assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that balance sheet

  income  and  expenses  for  each  income  statement  are  translated  at  average  exchange  rates  (unless  this  is  not  a  reasonable 
approximation  of  the  cumulative  effect  of  the  rates  prevailing  on  the  transaction  dates,  in  which  case  income  and  expenses  are 
translated at the dates of the transactions), and

•	

  all resulting exchange differences are recognised as a separate component of equity.

On consolidation, exchange differences arising from the translation of any net investment in foreign entities, and of borrowings and other 
financial instruments designated as hedges of such investments, are taken to shareholders’ equity.  When a foreign operation is sold or any 
borrowings forming part of the net investment are repaid, a proportionate share of such exchange differences are recognised in the income 
statement, as part of the gain or loss on sale where applicable.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

43

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(d)  Foreign currency translation (continued)

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

(e)  Revenue recognition

Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable net of the amount of Goods and Services Tax (GST) payable 
to  the  Australian  Taxation  Office.  Exchanges  of  goods  and  services  of  the  same  nature  and  value  without  any  cash  consideration  are  not 
recognised as revenue.

The Group recognises revenue when the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to 
the entity and specific criteria have been met for each of the Group’s activities as described below.  The amount of revenue is not considered 
to be reliably measurable until all contingencies relating to the sale have been resolved.  The Group bases its estimates on historical results, 
taking into consideration the type of customer, the type of transaction and the specifics of each arrangement.

Revenue is recognised for the major business activities as follows:

(i) 

Rendering of services

Revenue from rendering services is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the revenue benefits will flow to the Entity and the revenue 
can be reliably measured.

(ii) 

Sale of non current assets

The net gain or loss on disposal are included as either a revenue or an expense at the date control of the asset passes to the buyer, usually 
when an unconditional contract of sale is signed.

The gain or loss on disposal is calculated as the difference between the carrying amount of the asset at the time of disposal and the net 
proceeds on disposal.

Any related balance in the asset revaluation reserve is transferred to the capital profits reserve on disposal.

(iii)  Dividends

Revenue  from  dividends  and  distributions  from  controlled  entities  is  recognised  by  the  Parent  Entity  when  they  are  declared  by  the 
controlled entities.

Revenue from dividends from other investments is recognised when received.

(iv) 

Interest

Interest received is recognised as it accrues, taking into account the effective yield on the financial asset.

(f) 

Income tax

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

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

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

44

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(f) 

Income tax (continued)

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

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

Tax consolidation legislation

Collection House Ltd and its wholly-owned Australian controlled entities have implemented the tax consolidation legislation as of 1 July 2003.

The Head Entity, Collection House Ltd, and the controlled entities in the tax consolidated group continue to account for their own current 
and deferred tax amounts.  These tax amounts are measured as if each entity in the tax consolidated group continues to be a stand alone 
taxpayer in its own right.

In addition to its own current and deferred tax amounts, Collection House Ltd also recognises the current tax liabilities (or assets) and the 
deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses and unused tax credits assumed from controlled entities in the tax consolidated group.

Assets or liabilities arising under tax funding agreements with the tax consolidated entities are recognised as amounts receivable from or 
payable to other entities in the group (note 10).

Any  difference  between  the  amounts  assumed  and  amounts  receivable  or  payable  under  the  tax  funding  agreement  are  recognised  as  a 
contribution to (or distribution from) wholly-owned tax consolidated entities.

(g)  Leases

Leases of property, plant and equipment where the Group, as lessee, has substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified 
as finance leases (note 18).  Finance leases are capitalised at the lease’s inception at the fair value of the leased property or, if lower, the 
present value of the minimum lease payments.  The corresponding rental obligations, net of finance charges, are included in other short-term 
and long-term payables.  Each lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance cost.  The finance cost is charged to the income 
statement over the lease period so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period.  
The property, plant and equipment acquired under finance leases is depreciated over the asset’s useful life or over the shorter of the asset’s 
useful life and the lease term if there is no reasonable certainty that the Group will obtain ownership at the end of the lease term.

Leases  in  which  a  significant  portion  of  the  risks  and  rewards  of  ownership  are  not  transferred  to  the  Group  as  lessee  are  classified  as 
operating leases (note 37).  Payments made under operating leases (net of any incentives received from the lessor) are charged to the income 
statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.

(h)  Business combinations

The purchase method of accounting is used to account for all business combinations, including business combinations involving entities or 
businesses under common control, regardless of whether equity instruments or other assets are acquired.  Cost is measured as the fair value 
of the assets given, equity instruments issued or liabilities incurred or assumed at the date of exchange plus costs directly attributable to 
the acquisition.  Where equity instruments are issued in an acquisition, the fair value of the instruments is their published market price as at 
the date of exchange unless, in rare circumstances, it can be demonstrated that the published price at the date of exchange is an unreliable 
indicator of fair value and that other evidence and valuation methods provide a more reliable measure of fair value.  Transaction costs arising 
on the issue of equity instruments are recognised directly in equity.

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair 
values at the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any minority interest.  The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of 
the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill (refer to note 1(p)).  If the cost of acquisition is less than the 
Group’s share of the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised directly in the income 
statement, but only after a reassessment of the identification and measurement of the net assets acquired.

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

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

45

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(i) 

Impairment of assets

Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment, or more 
frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be impaired.  Other assets are reviewed for impairment whenever 
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.  An impairment loss is recognised for the amount 
by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount.  The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs 
to sell and value in use.  For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately 
identifiable cash inflows which are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets (cash-generating units). 

(j)  Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held at call with financial institutions, other short-term, highly liquid investments 
with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant 
risk of changes in value, and bank overdrafts.  Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities on the balance sheet.

(k)  Trade receivables

Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value less provision for doubtful debts.  Trade receivables are due for settlement no more 
than 30 days from the date of recognition.

Collectibility of trade receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis.  A provision for doubtful receivables is established when there is objective 
evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of receivables.  The amount of the provision 
is recognised in the income statement.

The  carrying  amount  of  the  asset  is  reduced  through  the  use  of  an  allowance  account  and  the  amount  of  the  loss  is  recognised  in  the 
income statement within ‘other expenses’.  When a trade receivable is uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance account for trade 
receivables.  Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against other expense in the income statement.

(l)  Non-current assets (or disposal groups) held-for-sale and discontinued operations

Non-current assets (or disposal groups) are classified as held-for-sale if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale 
transaction rather than through continuing use.  They are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, 
except  for  assets  such  as  deferred  tax  assets,  assets  arising  from  employee  benefits,  financial  assets  and  investment  property  that  are 
carried at fair value and contractual rights under insurance contracts, which are specifically exempt from this requirement.  

Non-current assets (including those that are part of a disposal group) are not depreciated or amortised while they are classified as held-for-sale.  
Interest and other expenses attributable to the liabilities of a disposal group classified as held-for-sale continue to be recognised.

Non-current assets classified as held-for-sale and the assets of a disposal group classified as held-for-sale are presented separately from 
the other assets in the balance sheet.  The liabilities of a disposal group classified as held-for-sale are presented separately from other 
liabilities in the balance sheet.

A  discontinued  operation  is  a  component  of  the  entity  that  has  been  disposed  of  or  is  classified  as  held-for-sale  and  that  represents  a 
separate major line of business or geographical area of operations, is part of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of such a line of business 
or area of operations, or is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale.  The results of discontinued operations are presented 
separately on the face of the income statement.

(m)  Financial assets

Classification

The Group classifies its investments in the following categories: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, available-for-sale financial 
assets,  and  loans  and  receivables.  The  classification  depends  on  the  purpose  for  which  the  investments  were  acquired.    Management 
determines the classification of its investments at initial recognition and re-evaluates this designation at each reporting date.

46

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(m)  Financial assets (continued)

(i) 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss - Purchased debt ledgers (PDL’s)

Purchased debt ledgers have been included in this category of financial assets as it is managed and its performance is evaluated on a fair 
value basis.

Purchased debt ledgers are initially recorded at cost (including incidental costs of acquisition) and thereafter at fair value in the balance sheet.  
In the absence of an active market the fair value of a particular ledger is determined based on a valuation technique.  The valuation is based 
on the present value of expected future cash flows.

When a ledger  is impaired the  carrying amount is reduced to its recoverable amount (fair value), being the anticipated future cash  flows 
discounted to present value.

Realised and unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value of these ledgers are included in the income statement in the 
period in which they arise.  

Purchased debt ledgers are included as non-current assets, except for the amount of the ledger that is expected to be realised within 12 
months of the balance sheet date, which is classified as a current asset.

(ii) 

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are non derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market.  They 
arise when the company provides money, goods or services directly to a debtor with no intention of selling the receivable.  They are initially 
measured at cost and included in current assets, except for those with maturities greater than 12 months after the balance sheet date which 
are classified as non-current assets.  The nominal value less credit adjustments of trade receivables are assumed to approximate their fair 
values.  Loans and receivables are included in trade and other receivables in the balance sheet.

The Company assesses at each balance date whether there is objective evidence that loans and receivables are impaired.  

(iii) 

Shares in subsidiaries

Available-for-sale financial assets comprise investments in the ordinary issued capital of various entities.  There are no fixed returns or fixed 
maturity date attached to these investments.

The fair value of unlisted available-for-sale financial assets cannot be reliably measured as variability in the range of reasonable fair value 
estimates is significant.  As a result, all unlisted investments are reflected at cost. 

Unlisted available-for-sale financial assets exist within active markets and could be disposed of if required.

Impairment

At each reporting date, the group assesses whether there is objective evidence whether any available-for-sale financial instruments have 
been impaired. In the case of available-for-sale financial instruments, a prolonged or significant decline in the value of the instrument is 
considered to determine whether an impairment has arisen.  Impairment losses are recognised in the income statement.

(n)  Fair value estimation of financial assets and liabilities

The fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities must be estimated for recognition and measurement or for disclosure purposes.

The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market is determined using valuation techniques.  The company uses 
estimated discounted cash flows to determine fair value.

(o)  Property, plant and equipment

All assets acquired including property, plant and equipment and intangibles other than goodwill are initially recorded at their cost of acquisition 
at the date of acquisition, being the fair value of the consideration provided plus incidental costs directly attributable to the acquisition.  When 
equity instruments are issued as consideration, their market price at the date of acquisition is used as fair value.  Transaction costs arising on the 
issue of equity instruments are recognised directly in equity subject to the extent of proceeds received, otherwise these costs are expensed.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

47

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(o)  Property, plant and equipment (continued)

Where settlement of any part of cash consideration is deferred, the amounts payable are recorded at their present value, discounted at the 
rate applicable to the Company if similar borrowings were obtained from an independent financier under comparable terms and conditions.

The costs of assets constructed or internally generated by the consolidated Entity, other than goodwill, include the cost of materials and 
direct labour.  Directly attributable overheads and other incidental costs are also capitalised to the asset.  Borrowing costs are capitalised to 
qualifying assets as set out in note 1(s).

Expenditure, including that on internally generated assets, is only recognised as an asset when the Entity controls future economic benefits 
as a result of the costs incurred, it is probable that those future economic benefits will eventuate, and the costs can be measured reliably. 
Costs attributable to feasibility and alternative approach assessments are expensed as incurred.

All	assets,	including	intangibles	other	than	goodwill,	are	depreciated	/	amortised	using	the	straight-line	method	over	their	estimated	useful	
lives taking into account estimated residual values with the exception of purchased debt which subject to fair value adjustments based upon 
the benefits to be derived from the asset.

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

Depreciation and amortisation rates and methods are reviewed annually for appropriateness.  When changes are made, adjustments are 
reflected prospectively in current and future periods only.

 - Plant and equipment

- Computer equipment

2009

4-8 years

3-5 years

- Leased plant and equipment
The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each reporting date. 

Term of Lease

2008

4-8 years

3-5 years

Term of Lease

An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated 
recoverable amount (note 1(i)). 

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount.  These are included in the income statement.  When 
revalued assets are sold, it is Group policy to transfer any amounts included in other reserves in respect of those assets to retained earnings.

(p) 

Intangible assets

(i)    Goodwill

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

Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing.  Each of those cash-generating units represents the 
company’s investment in each primary reporting segment (note 4). 

(ii)    Computer software

Costs incurred in developing products or systems and costs incurred in acquiring software and licence fees that will contribute to future  
period	financial	benefits	through	revenue	generation	and	/	or	cost	reduction	are	capitalised.		Costs	capitalised	include	external	direct	costs	of	
materals and services, direct payroll and payroll-related costs of employees’ time spent on the project.  Amortisation is applied on a straight 
line basis over period generally ranging over periods of 2 to 12 years. 

(iii)    Other intangible assets

Licences and intellectual property are considered to have an infinite useful life and are carried at cost less impairment losses.  All costs 
associated with the maintenance and protection of these assets are expensed in the period consumed. 

48

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(q)  Trade and other payables

These amounts represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the Group prior to the end of financial year which are unpaid.  The 
amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 30 days of recognition. 

(r)  Borrowings

All borrowings are recognised at their principal amounts subject to setoff arrangements which represent the present value of future cash 
flows associated with servicing the debt.  Where interest is payable in arrears the interest expense is accrued over the period it becomes due, 
is recorded at the contracted rate as part of “Other creditors and accruals”. 

Where interest is paid in advance, the interest expense is recorded as a part of “Prepayments” and released over the period to maturity.

Borrowings  are  removed  from  the  balance  sheet  when  the  obligation  specified  in  the  contract  is  discharged,  cancelled  or  expired.    The 
difference between the carrying amount of a financial liability that has been extinguished or transferred to another party and the consideration 
paid, including any non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed, is recognised in other income or finance costs.  

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

(s)  Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs incurred for the construction of any qualifying asset are capitalised during the period of time that is required to complete 
and prepare the asset for its intended use or sale.  Other borrowing costs are expensed.

Borrowing costs include interest, amortisation of discounts or premiums relating to borrowings, amortisation of ancillary costs incurred in 
connection with arrangement of borrowings, foreign exchange losses net of any hedged amounts on borrowings, including trade creditors 
and lease finance charges.

Ancillary costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings are capitalised and amortised over the life of the borrowings.

(t)  Provisions

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

If the effect is material, provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market 
assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability.  The unwinding of the discount is treated as part of the expense 
related to the particular provision.

(u)  Employee benefits

(i) 

Wages and salaries, annual leave and sick leave

Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits, annual leave and accumulating sick leave expected to be settled within 12 
months of the reporting date are recognised in other payables in respect of employees’ services up to the reporting date and are measured 
at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled.

(ii) 

Long service leave

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

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

49

 
 
 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(u)  Employee benefits (continued)

(iii) 

Superannuation Plans

The Company and other controlled entities make statutory contibutions to several superannuation funds in accordance with the directions of 
it’s employees.  Contributions are expensed in the period to which they relate.

(iv) 

Share-based payments

Share-based compensation benefits are provided to the Chief Executive Officer via the the employment agreement between the Company 
and the Chief Executive Officer.

Share-based  compensation  benefits  are  provided  to  employees  other  than  the  Chief  Executive  Officer  via  the  Collection  House  Limited 
Executive Share Option Plan. Further details are set out in note 41.

Shares options granted after 7 November 2002 and vested after 1 January 2005.

The fair value of options granted under the Executive Share Option Plan and the CEO employment agreement is recognised as an employee 
benefit expense with a corresponding increase in equity.  The fair value is measured at grant date and recognised over the period during which 
the employees become unconditionally entitled to the options.

The fair value at grant date is independently determined using a Monte Carlo option pricing model that takes into account the exercise price, the 
term of the option, the vesting and performance criteria, the impact of dilution, the non-tradeable nature of the option, the share price at grant 
date and expected price volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield and the risk-free interest rate for the term of the option.

The fair value of the options granted is adjusted to reflect market vesting conditions, but excludes the impact of any non-market vesting 
conditions (for example, profitability and sales growth targets).  Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number 
of options that are expected to become exercisable.  At each balance sheet date, the entity revises 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.

Upon the exercise of options, the balance of the share-based payments reserve relating to those options is transferred to share capital.

(v) 

Termination benefits

Termination  benefits  are  payable  when  employment  is  terminated  before  the  normal  retirement  date,  or  when  an  employee  accepts 
voluntary  redundancy  in  exchange  for  these  benefits.    The  Group  recognises  termination  benefits  when  it  is  demonstrably  committed  to 
either terminating the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without possibility of withdrawal or providing 
termination  benefits  as  a  result  of  an  offer  made  to  encourage  voluntary  redundancy.    Benefits  falling  due  more  than  12  months  after 
reporting date are discounted to present value.

(v)  Dividends

Provision is made for the amount of any dividend declared on or before the end of the financial year but not distributed at balance date.

(w)  Earnings per share

(i) 

Basic earnings per share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing:

•	

•	

the profit attributable to equity holders of the company, excluding any costs of servicing equity other than ordinary shares

 by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the financial year, adjusted for bonus elements in ordinary shares 
issued during the year and excluding treasury shares (note 30).

50

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

1  Summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

(w)  Earnings per share (continued)

(ii) 

Diluted earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share adjusts the figures used in the determination of basic earnings per share to take into account: 

•	

•	

the after income tax effect of interest and other financing costs associated with dilutive potential ordinary shares, and

 the weighted average number of additional ordinary shares that would have been outstanding assuming the conversion of all dilutive 
potential ordinary shares.  

(x)  Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of associated GST, unless the GST incurred is not recoverable from the 
taxation authority.  In this case it is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense.

Receivables  and  payables  are  stated  inclusive  of  the  amount  of  GST  receivable  or  payable.    The  net  amount  of  GST  recoverable  from,  or 
payable to, the taxation authority is included with other receivables or payables in the balance sheet.

Cash  flows  are  presented  on  a  gross  basis.    The  GST  components  of  cash  flows  arising  from  investing  or  financing  activities  which  are 
recoverable from, or payable to the taxation authority, are presented as operating cash flows.

(y)  Rounding of amounts

The	company	is	of	a	kind	referred	to	in	Class	Order	98/100,	issued	by	the	Australian	Securities	and	Investments	Commission,	relating	to	the	
‘’rounding off’’ of amounts in the financial report.  Amounts in the financial report have been rounded off in accordance with that Class Order 
to the nearest thousand dollars, or in certain cases, the nearest dollar.

(z)  New accounting standards and interpretations

Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for 30 June 2009 reporting periods.  The 
Group’s and the parent entity’s assessment of the impact of these new standards and interpretations is set out below.

(i) 

 AASB 8 Operating Segments and AASB 2007-3 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from 
AASB 8 (effective from 1 January 2009) 

AASB 8 requires adoption of a ‘management approach’ to reporting on financial performance.  The information being reported will be based 
on what the key decision makers use internally for evaluating segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources to operating 
segments.  The Group will adopt AASB 8 from 1 July 2009, however it is unlikely to result in any impact upon the group as segment information 
is already presented based upon the structure that key decision makers use.

(ii) 

 Revised AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements and AASB 2007-8 Amendments to Australian 
Accounting Standards arising from AASB 101 (effective from 1 January 2009)

The  September  2007  revised  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 an entity has made a prior 
period adjustment or has reclassified items in the financial statements, it will need to disclose a third balance sheet (statement of financial 
position), this one being as at the beginning of the comparative period.  The Group will apply the revised standard from 1 July 2009.

(iii) 

 AASB 2008-7 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards - Cost of an Investment in a Subsidiary, Jointly 
Controlled Entity or Associate (effective 1 July 2009)

In July 2008, the AASB approved amendments to AASB 1 First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards and AABS 127 
Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements.  The Group will apply the revised rules prospectively from 1 July 2009.  After that date, all 
dividends received from investments in subsidiaries, jointly controlled entities or associates will be recognised as revenue, even if they are 
paid out of pre-acquisition profits, but the investments may need to be tested for impairment as a result of the dividend payment.  Under the 
entity’s current policy, these dividends are deducted from the cost of the investment.  Furthermore, when a new intermediate parent entity is 
created in internal reorganisations it will measure its investment in subsidiaries at the carrying amounts of the net assets of the subsidiary 
rather than the subsidiary’s fair value.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

51

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

2  Financial risk management

The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including currency risk, interest rate risk and price risk), credit risk 
and liquidity risk.  The Group’s overall risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise 
potential adverse effects on the financial performance of the Group.  The Group uses different methods to measure different types of risk 
to which it is exposed.  These methods include sensitivity analysis in the case of interest rate, foreign exchange and other price risks, aging 
analysis for credit risk and cashflow analysis to determine the risk associated with the Purchased Debt Ledger portfolio.

Risk management is carried out by the finance department under policies approved by the Audit and Risk Management Committee of the 
Board.  Under the authority of the Board of Directors the Audit and Risk Management Committee ensures that the total risk exposure of the 
group is consistent with the Business Strategy and within the risk tolerance of the Group. Regular risk reports are tabled before the Audit 
and Risk Management Committee.

Within  this  framework,  the  Finance  team  identifies,  evaluates  and  manages  financial  risks  in  close  co-operation  with  the  Group’s 
operating units.

(a)  Market risk

(i) 

Foreign exchange risk

The Group and the parent entity operate internationally and are exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currency exposures, 
primarily with respect to the NZ dollar.

Foreign exchange risk arises when future commercial transactions and recognised assets and liabilities are denominated in a currency that 
is not the entity’s functional currency and net investments in foreign operations.

At	30	June	2009,	had	the	Australian	Dollar	weakened/strengthened	by	10%	against	the	NZ	Dollar	with	all	other	variables	held	constant,	the	
impact for the year would have been immaterial to both profit for the year and equity.

(ii) 

Price risk

The parent is exposed to price risk in respect of its investments in unlisted private subsidiary companies. The group is not exposed to price 
risk, as there are no subsidiary company investments in the consolidated results.

The price risk for the unlisted securities is immaterial in terms of the possible impact on profit or loss or total equity.  It has therefore not 
been included in the sensitivity analysis.

(iii)  Cash flow and fair value interest rate risk

The	Group	is	exposed	to	interest	rate	risk	from	two	sources	–	Trade	interest	rate	risk	and	Investment	interest	rate	risk.

Trade interest rate risk

As the Group has no significant interest bearing assets, the Group’s income and operating cash flows are not materially exposed to changes 
in market interest rates.

The Group and Parent main trade interest rate risk arises from long-term borrowings.  Borrowings issued at variable rates expose the Group 
and Parent to cash flow interest rate risk.  Borrowings issued at fixed rates expose the Group and Parent to fair value interest rate risk.  
Neither the Group nor the Parent currently has fixed rate borrowings.  During 2008 and 2009, the Group and Parent borrowings at variable 
rate were denominated in Australian Dollars only.

The Group and Parent analyses Trade interest rate exposure in the context of current economic conditions. Management is aware of the 
impact on profits of specific interest rate increases, and annual budgets and ongoing forecasts are framed based upon the company’s and 
the market’s expectations of interest rate levels for the coming year.

Interest rate hedges and swaps are an available tool for managing interest rate risk in the company. If it is determined that it would be profitable 
and	/	or	advantageous	to	the	company,	these	tools	will	be	used.	No	interest	rate	hedges	or	swaps	are	currently	in	place	(2008:	$Nil).

52

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

2  Financial risk management (continued)

(a)  Market risk (continued)

As at the reporting date, the Group had the following variable rate borrowings outstanding:

30 June 2009

30 June 2008

Weighted 
average 
interest rate

%

6.0%

Weighted 
average 
interest rate 

%

6.8%

Balance

$’000

63,901

63,901

Balance

$’000

69,700

69,700

Bank overdrafts and bank loans

Net exposure to cash flow interest rate risk

Investment interest rate risk

In addition the Group is exposed to Investment interest rate risk which arises from the significant investment in Purchased Debt Ledgers 
(“PDL”). A number of different types of risk arise from the PDL investments. All PDL risks are managed together as described below.

Interest rate risk

Group sensitivity

At	30	June	2009,	if	interest	rates	had	changed	by		+/-	25	basis	points	from	the	year	end	rates	with	all	other	variables	held	constant,	post	tax	
profit	for	the	year	would	have	been	$122,000	lower/higher	(2008	-	change	of	25	bps:	$112,000	lower/higher),	mainly	as	a	result	of	higher/lower	
interest	expense	from	net	borrowings.			Other	components	of	equity	would	have	been	$122,000	lower/higher	(2008	-	$112,000	lower/higher)	
mainly	as	a	result	of	an	increase/decrease	in	cash	not	required	for	interest	payments.	Other	financial	assets	and	liabilities	are	not	interest	
bearing and therefore are not subject to interest rate risk.

Parent entity sensitivity

At	30	June	2009,	if	interest	rates	had	changed	by		+/-	25	basis	points	from	the	year	end	rates	with	all	other	variables	held	constant,	post	tax	
profit	would	have	been	$115,000	lower/higher	(2008	-	change	of	25	bps:	$114,000	lower/higher)	mainly	as	a	result	of	lower	interest	expense	
from	net	borrowings.	Other	components	of	equity	would	have	been	$115,000	lower/higher	(2008	-	$114,000	lower/higher)	as	a	result	of	an	
increase decrease in cash not required for interest payments. Other financial assets and liabilities are not interest bearing and therefore are 
not subject to interest rate risk.

Foreign exchange risk

Sensitivity to changes in the exchange rate between AUD and NZD has been assessed within a range of -0.5% to +10.0% and has been found 
to be immaterial against both group and parent profits and equity.

Other price risk

As none of the financial assets or liabilities of the group and the parent are traded in financial markets, there is no other price risk in either 
the group or the parent.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

53

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

2  Financial risk management (continued)

(a)  Market risk (continued)

(iv) 

Summarised sensitivity analysis 

The following table summarises the sensitivity of the Group’s financial assets and financial liabilities to interest rate risk. 

Consolidated

30 June 2009

Financial assets

Financial liabilities

Borrowings

Total	increase/	(decrease)

Consolidated

30 June 2008

Financial liabilities

Borrowings

Total	increase/	(decrease)

Company

30 June 2009

Financial liabilities

Borrowings

Total	increase/	(decrease)

Company

30 June 2008

Financial liabilities

Borrowings

Total	increase/	(decrease)

(b)  Credit risk

Carrying 
amount

$’000

69,700

63,901

65,778

65,199

Interest rate risk

-25 bps

+25 bps

Profit

$’000

Equity

$’000

Profit

$’000

Equity

$’000

122

122

112

112

115

115

114

114

122

122

112

112

115

115

114

114

(122)

(122)

(122)

(122)

(112)

(112)

(112)

(112)

(115)

(115)

(115)

(115)

(114)

(114)

(114)

(114)

The	Group	is	exposed	to	credit	risk	from	two	sources	–	Trade	credit	risk	and	Investment	credit	risk.

Trade credit risk

Trade  credit  risk  is  managed  on  a  Group  basis.  Trade  credit  risk  arises  from  cash  and  cash  equivalents,  derivative  financial  instruments 
and  deposits  with  banks  and  financial  institutions,  as  well  as  credit  exposures  to  clients,  including  outstanding  receivables  and 
committed transactions. 

The Group and Parent have no significant concentrations of trade credit risk. The Group has policies in place to ensure that the sales of 
products  and  services  are  made  to  customers  with  an  appropriate  credit  history.  The  Group  has  policies  that  limit  the  amount  of  credit 
exposure to any one financial institution. 

Investment credit risk

In addition the group is exposed to Investment credit risk which arises from the significant investment in Purchased Debt Ledgers (“PDL”). A 
number of different types of risk arise from the PDL investments. All PDL risks are managed together as described below.

54

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

2  Financial risk management (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk 

Prudent  liquidity  risk  management  implies  maintaining  sufficient  cash  and  marketable  securities,  the  availability  of  funding  through  an 
adequate amount of committed credit facilities and the ability to close out market positions.  Due to the dynamic nature of the underlying 
businesses, the Finance Team aims at maintaining flexibility in funding by keeping committed credit lines available.

Management  monitors  rolling  forecasts  of  the  Group’s  liquidity  reserve  on  the  basis  of  expected  cash  flow.    Cashflow  is  forecast  on  a 
day-to-day basis across the group to ensure that sufficient funds are available to meet requirements.

Financing arrangements 

The  Group  and  the  parent  had  access  to  a  $75,000,000  Multiple  Option  Facility  throughout  the  year  (2008:  $70,000,000  facility  with  an 
additional $5,000,000 cash advance for fitout of leased premises). The facility expires on 3 January 2011, and is subject to meeting a number 
of financial undertakings. The undertakings were materially met at all times during both the current and prior years. The facility is subject 
to review at the end of the term.

The facility is made up of a Cash Advance option, a Commercial Bill option, an Overdraft option, and a Set-off option. The cash advance option 
or the commercial bill option can be drawn upon with 2 days notice to the finance provider, and the overdraft option or the set-off option may 
be drawn upon at any time. The allocation between the various options is at the discretion of the Group subject to the total not exceeding the 
$75,000,000 commitment from the finance provider. The overdraft and set-off options are repayable on demand, and the Commercial Bill and 
cash advance options are repayable at the end of the term. 

The  undertakings  are  reviewed  by  the  Audit  and  Risk  Management  Committee  each  month,  and  are  reported  on  to  the  finance  provider 
quarterly. All companies within the group are required to notify the finance provider of any event of default as soon as it becomes aware 
of them.

In addition to the above the Group is required to keep the finance provider fully informed of relevant details of the group as they arise.

Further details of the banking facility are set out in note 26.

The table below analyses the Group’s financial liabilities into relevant maturity groupings based on the remaining period at the reporting date 
to the contractual maturity date.  The amounts disclosed in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows.  Balances due within 12 
months equal their carrying balances, as the impact of discounting is not significant.

Less than 6 
months

6 - 12 months

Between 1 
and 2 years

Between 2 
and 5 years

Over 5 years

Total 
contractual 
cash flows

Carrying 
Amount 
(assets)/ 
liabilities

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

Group - At 30 June 2009

Non-derivatives

Non-interest bearing

Variable rate

Total non-derivatives

Group - At 30 June 2008

Non-derivatives

Non-interest bearing

Variable rate

Total non-derivatives

4,622

-

4,622

1,610

2,801

4,411

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

69,700

69,700

-

61,100

61,100

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,622

69,700

74,322

1,610

63,901

65,511

4,622

69,700

74,322

1,610

63,901

65,511

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

55

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

2  Financial risk management (continued)

(c)  Liquidity risk (continued)

Less than 6 
months

6 - 12 months

Between 1 
and 2 years

Between 2 
and 5 years

Over 5 years

Total 
contractual 
cash flows

Carrying 
Amount 
(assets)/ 
liabilities

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

Parent - At 30 June 2009

Non-derivatives

Non-interest bearing

Variable rate

Total non-derivatives

Parent - At 30 June 2008

Non-derivatives

Non-interest bearing

Variable rate 

Total non-derivatives

14,885

4,678

19,563

10,310

4,099

14,409

(d)  Fair value estimation

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

69,700

69,700

-

61,100

61,100

-

-

-

-

-

-

21,858

-

36,743

74,378

36,743

74,378

21,858

111,121

111,121

14,745

-

14,745

25,055

65,199

90,254

25,055

65,199

90,254

The fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities must be estimated for recognition and measurement or for disclosure purposes.

The  fair  value  of  financial  instruments  that  are  not  traded  in  an  active  market  (for  example,  purchased  debt  portfolios  in  the  group,  and 
investments  in  subsidiaries  in  the  parent)  is  determined  using  valuation  techniques.    The  Group  uses  a  variety  of  methods  and  makes 
assumptions that are based on market conditions existing at each balance date.  Other techniques, such as estimated discounted cash flows, 
are also used to determine fair value for the financial instruments.

The key assumption which underpins the valuation of Financial Instruments in the group is the recovery rate. Assumptions are made about 
the recovery rate based on experience and market conditions. Sensitivity of profit and equity to changes in the actual recovery rate achieved 
is set out in the sensitivity analysis below.

Other  Financial  Assets  at  Fair  Value  through  the  Profit  and  Loss  as  disclosed  in  the  parent  entity  represent  investments  in  subsidiary 
companies. These investments in the parent are valued based upon the carrying value of the underlying assets in the subsidiaries. These 
assets  are  carried  at  the  lower  of  cost  or  valuation  in  accordance  with  Australian  Accounting  Standards.  Sensitivity  to  movements  in  the 
variables noted above has been determined to be immaterial in relation to both profit and equity.

The carrying value less doubtful debts provision of trade receivables and payables is a reasonable approximation of their fair values due to 
the short-term nature of trade receivables.  The fair value of financial liabilities for disclosure purposes is estimated by discounting the future 
contractual cash flows at the current market interest rate that is available to the Group for similar financial instruments.

Purchased Debt Ledgers

Other Financial Assets at Fair Value through the Profit and Loss as disclosed in the group entity represent investments in debt ledgers. To 
manage the interest rate and credit risks arising from investments in debt portfolios, the Group analyses the price to be paid for each tranche 
before it is purchased. Debt prices paid are determined by a bidding process in the market place, with each bidder determining the prices 
which they are prepared to pay based on their own analysis.

The  price  offered  by  the  Group  for  any  particular  tranche  of  debt  is  determined  based  upon  existing  in-house  knowledge  of  the  tranche, 
macro-economic  and  micro-economic  factors  and  the  experience  of  senior  management.  In-house  knowledge  of  a  tranche  exists  if  the 
tranche has been previously worked by the company on a commission basis. 

Due to contractual restrictions on the company’s ability to subsequently deal with the purchased debt portfolio, it is considered that there is 
not an active market in debt portfolios in which the company can participate.

56

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

2  Financial risk management (continued)

(d)  Fair value estimation (continued)

Initial recognition value 
The factors that determine the price paid for a particular tranche of debt are:

1. The Face Value of the debt being purchased 

The face value of debt is dependent upon the value of debt that the vendor is prepared to sell. 

2. The expected Recovery Rate of the debt being purchased 

The expected recovery rate is the percentage of the face value of a debt that is expected to be recovered as a result of collection activity, and 
is based upon the company’s historical experience with the particular tranche being purchased. Historical experience can vary from a detailed 
knowledge of the tranche if it has been previously worked by the company on a commission basis, to a general knowledge of the type of debt 
being purchased from a new vendor, and specific knowledge discovered as part of a pre-purchase due diligence process. 

3. The Price Multiple which can be obtained 

The price multiple is the discount factor between the recoverable amount of the debt and the price which is paid for it. The discount factor is 
determined by the amount that the vendor is prepared to accept in exchange for the debt, and the amount that the company is able to pay to 
acquire the debt and achieve an acceptable profit margin. 

Subsequent measurement of carrying value

After a tranche has been purchased, fair value adjustments are made against the the carrying value in line with the revenue collected against 
it. The carrying value is continuously reviewed to ensure that it is not in excess of fair value based upon a discounted cash flow (DCF) model. 
The inputs to the DCF model are the same as are used in the original purchase price calculation with actual results substituted for expected 
estimates. In this context the only variable is the recovery rate, as neither the face value nor the price multiple can change as a result of 
working a debt. 

Summarised sensitivity analysis

The  following  table  summarises  the  sensitivity  of  the  Group’s  financial  assets  at  Fair  Value  through  the  Profit  &  Loss  to  the  achieved 
recovery rate. 

As	 a	 result	 of	 the	 Global	 Financial	 crisis,	 the	 reasonably	 likely	 range	 for	 the	 sensitivity	 analysis	 has	 increased	 to	 +/-	 4.4%	 in	 2009	
(2008:	+/-	2.0%).

Consolidated

30 June 2009

Financial assets

Financial assets at FVTPL

Total increase/ (decrease)

Consolidated

30 June 2008

Financial assets

Financial assets at FVTPL

Total increase/ (decrease)

Carrying 
amount

$’000

146,919

Carrying 
amount

$’000

143,470

Recoverability

-4.4%

+4.4%

Other 
Equity

$’000

(1,185)

(1,185)

Profit

$’000

1,185

1,185

Recoverability

-2.0%

+2.0%

Other 
Equity

$’000

(415)

(415)

Profit

$’000

415

415

Other 
Equity

$’000

1,185

1,185

Other 
Equity

$’000

415

415

Profit

$’000

(1,185)

(1,185)

Profit

$’000

(415)

(415)

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

57

 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

3  Critical accounting estimates and judgements

Estimates  and  judgements  are  continually  evaluated  and  are  based  on  historical  experience  and  other  factors,  including  expectations  of 
future events that may have a financial impact on the Entity and that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

(a)  Critical accounting estimates and assumptions

The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future.  The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the 
related actual results.  The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts 
of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

(i) 

Estimated impairment of goodwill

The Group tests annually whether goodwill has suffered any impairment, in accordance with the accounting policy stated in note 1(p). The 
recoverable amounts of cash-generating units have been determined based on value-in-use calculations.  These calculations require the use 
of assumptions.  Refer to note 2 for details of these assumptions and the potential impact of changes to the assumptions.

(ii) 

Estimated impairment of non-financial assets and intangible assets other than goodwill

The  Group  is  subject  to  income  taxes  in  Australia  and  jurisdictions  where  it  has  foreign  operations.    Significant  judgement  is  required  in 
determining the worldwide provision for income taxes.  There are many transactions and calculations undertaken during the ordinary course 
of business for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain.  The Group 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 the amounts that were 
initially recorded, such differences will impact the current and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.

The  Group  tests  annually  whether  the  non-financial  assets  or  intangible  assets  of  the  Group  (other  than  goodwill)  have  suffered  any 
impairment,  in  accordance  with  the  accounting  policy  stated  in  note  1(i).    The  recoverable  amounts  of  cash-generating  units  have  been 
determined based on value-in-use calculations.  These calculations require the use of assumptions.

(iii) 

Estimated fair value of other financial assets

At each reporting date the Group determines the fair value of financial assets in accordance with the accounting policy stated at 1(n).  The 
calculation of impairment requires the use of assumptions.

(b)  Critical judgements in applying the entity’s accounting policies

Employee benefits

Management judgment is applied in determining the key assumptions used in the calculation of long service leave at balance date:

 - future increases in wages and salaries

 - future on-cost rates

 - experience of employee departures and period of service

Impairment of available-for-sale financial assets

The Group follows the guidance of AASB 139 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement on determining when an available-for-sale 
financial asset is impaired.  This determination requires significant judgement.  In making this judgement, the Group evaluates, among other 
factors, the underlying assets of the investee company.

Useful lives of property, plant and equipment

The Group’s management determines the estimated useful lives and related depreciation charges for property, plant and equipment at the 
time of acquisition. As described in note 1(o) useful lives are reviewed regularly throughout the year for appropriateness.

58

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

4  Segment information

(a)  Description of segments

Individual business segments are identified on the basis of grouping individual products or services subject to similar risks and returns. The 
business segments reported are: Contingent Collection Services, and Account Asset Management.  In prior years, there was one business 
allocated to Credit Reporting and two businesses allocated to Other Operations.  These businesses were sold during the years ended 30 
June 2008 and 30 June 2007 respectively, and the information regarding these businesses is now in the Discontinued operations column.  For 
further information refer to note 9.

The consolidated Entity comprises the following business segments, based on the group’s management reporting system:

Contingent Collection Services

The earning of commissions on the collection of debts for clients;

Account Asset Management

The collection of debts from client ledgers acquired by the Company;

Although  the  consolidated  entity’s  divisions  are  managed  on  a  global  basis  they  operate  in  two  main  geographical  areas,  Australia  and 
New Zealand.

(b)  Primary reporting format - business segments 

Collection 
services

Account asset 
management

Intersegment 
eliminations/
unallocated

Total 
continuing 
operations

Discontinued 
operations 
(note 11)

Consolidated

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

2009

Segment revenue

Sales to external customers 

Intersegment sales 

Total sales revenue

Other revenue

Total segment revenue/income 

Profit on discontinued operations

Consolidated revenue

Segment result 

32,097

4,392

36,489

55

36,544

71,300

-

71,300

13

71,313

(1,459)

(4,392)

(5,851)

(68)

(5,919)

Segment result (notes [ii])

7,230

17,366

(6,005)

Interest expense & borrowing costs

Unallocated revenue less unallocated 
expenses

Profit before income tax

Income	tax	benefit	/	(expense)

Profit for the year

101,938

-

101,938

-

101,938

-

101,938

18,591

(4,467)

(3,365)

10,759

(3,059)

7,700

-

-

-

219

219

-

219

219

-

-

219

(65)

154

101,938

-

101,938

219

102,157

-

102,157

18,810

(4,467)

(3,365)

10,978

(3,124)

7,854

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

59

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

4  Segment information (continued)

(b)  Primary reporting format - business segments (continued)

Collection 
services

Account asset 
management

Intersegment 
eliminations/
unallocated

Total 
continuing 
operations

Discontinued 
operations 
(note 11)

Consolidated

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

150,816

151,929

(121,937)

180,808

2009

Segment assets and liabilities

Segment assets 

Intersegment elimination

Unallocated assets

Total assets

Segment liabilities 

Intersegment elimination

Unallocated liabilities

Total liabilities

Other segment information

Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment, 
intangibles and other non-current segment 
assets

Total acquisitions

Depreciation and amortisation expense

Total depreciation and amortisation

Other non-cash expenses

2008

Segment revenue

Sales to external customers 

Intersegment sales 

Total sales revenue

Profit	from	discontinued	operations	/	Other	
revenue

Total segment revenue 

Unallocated revenue

Consolidated revenue

Segment result 

11,943

132,191

(135,708)

7,338

70,840

-

291

199

669

1,335

31,568

(310)

30,604

3,833

34,437

64,183

-

64,183

28

-

34,465

64,183

54

(3,847)

(3,793)

641

(3,152)

Segment result (notes (ii))

5,736

15,966

(5,918)

Interest expense & borrowing costs

Unallocated revenue less unallocated 
expenses

Profit before income tax

Income	tax	benefit	/	(expense)

Profit for the year

60

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

-

-

180,808

8,426

-

84,422

92,848

78,178

78,178

2,295

2,295

31,457

94,841

(14)

94,827

669

95,496

-

95,496

15,784

(5,133)

(5,662)

4,989

(1,229)

3,760

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

5,696

15

5,711

98

5,809

10,404

16,213

11,327

-

-

11,327

(2,699)

8,628

180,808

-

-

180,808

8,426

-

84,422

92,848

78,178

78,178

2,295

2,295

31,457

100,537

1

100,538

767

101,305

10,404

111,709

27,111

(5,133)

(5,662)

16,316

(3,928)

12,388

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

4  Segment information (continued)

(b)  Primary reporting format - business segments (continued)

2008

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

Collection 
services

Account asset 
management

Intersegment 
eliminations/
unallocated

Total 
continuing 
operations

Discontinued 
operations 
(note 11)

Consolidated

132,195

146,135

(116,007)

162,323

9,403

171,726

Segment assets and liabilities

Segment assets

Intersegment elimination

Unallocated assets

Total assets

Segment liabilities 

Unallocated liabilities

Total liabilities

7,331

118,645

(120,196)

Other segment information

Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment, 
intangibles and other non-current segment 
assets

Total acquisitions

2,693

56,193

-

Depreciation and amortisation expense

122

645

1,540

-

4,737

167,060

5,780

81,692

87,472

58,886

58,886

2,307

2,307

-

-

-

-

9,403

4,707

-

4,707

1,350

1,350

-

-

-

-

-

4,737

176,463

10,487

81,692

92,179

60,236

60,236

2,307

2,307

-

-

Total depreciation and amortisation

Impairment of goodwill (note 20)

Impairment of other assets

Other non-cash expenses

-

-

-

-

-

-

(72)

30,480

502

30,910

(45)

30,865

(c)  Secondary reporting format - geographical segments 

Segment revenues from 
sales to external customers

Segment assets

Acquisitions of property, 
plant and equipment, 
intangibles and other 
non-current segment assets

30 June
2009

$’000

96,873

5,282

30 June
2008

$’000

92,658

7,663

30 June
2009

$’000

171,559

9,249

30 June
2008

$’000

162,004

9,344

102,155

100,321

180,808

171,348

30 June
2009

$’000

78,016

162

78,178

30 June
2008

$’000

60,236

65

60,301

-

4,737

180,808

176,085

Australia

New Zealand

Unallocated assets

Total assets

Segment  revenues  are  allocated  based  on  the  country  in  which  the  customer  is  located.    Segment  assets  and  capital  expenditure  are 
allocated based on where the assets are located.

(i) 

Accounting policies

Segment information is prepared in conformity with the accounting policies of the entity as disclosed in note 1 and Accounting Standard AASB 
114 Segment Reporting.

Segment revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities are those that are directly attributable to a segment and the relevant portion that can be 
allocated to the segment on a reasonable basis.  Segment assets include all assets used by a segment and consist primarily of operating 

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

61

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

4  Segment information (continued)

(c)  Secondary reporting format - geographical segments (continued)

cash, receivables, inventories, property, plant and equipment and goodwill and other intangible assets, net of related provisions.  While most 
of  these  assets  can  be  directly  attributable  to  individual  segments,  the  carrying  amounts  of  certain  assets  used  jointly  by  segments  are 
allocated based on reasonable estimates of usage.  Segment liabilities consist primarily of trade and other creditors, employee benefits and 
interest bearing liabilities.  Segment assets and liabilities do not include income taxes.

Unallocated items mainly comprise interest or dividend-earning assets and revenue, interest bearing loans, borrowing costs and corporate 
assets and expenses.

Segment capital expenditure is the total cost incurred during the period to acquire segment assets that are expected to be used for more 
than one period.

(ii) 

Segment margins

Margin on sales revenue

Collection Services

Account Asset Management Discontinued Operations

30 June
2009

30 June
2008

30 June
2009

30 June
2008

30 June
2009

30 June
2008

%

19

%

16

%

24

%

25

%

100

%

70

5  Correction of error in reporting expenses in the previous year

As noted in the 31 December 2008 half year report, the Company has moved to correct its approach to accounting for employment costs, 
which have previously been accounted for on an effectively cash basis which is inconsistent with accrual accounting principles. This practice 
goes back to the incorporation of the company, and it is impraticable to make corrections from when the issue first arose. The cumulative 
error has been corrected from 1 July 2007, by recognising an accrual for outstanding wages at that time of $1,317,000, together with an 
adjustment against current tax receivables of $408,000. The $909,000 after tax profit effect of this initial adjustment has been posted as a 
reduction against the opening balance of retained earnings.

It has become necessary for the correction to be made in the current year as a result of it becoming a material adjustment in the context 
of the company’s expectations of financial performance and financial position in the new environment of the world economic crisis. In prior 
years, based on the best information available to management, this issue has always been immaterial and not required adjustment.

The impact of the change from cash to accrual accounting in respect of wages cost in the current year has been to increase the NPAT by 
$71,000. Retained earnings and net assets in the balance sheet have reduced by a corresponding amount.

The change will have no effect on the cashflows of the consolidated group.

The balance sheet for all future years will carry a liability for wages unpaid at the end of the reporting period. This liability can vary between 
3 and 13 days for any given year and will be calculated using the most recent payroll data available.

In addition to the impact on the prior year’s results as identified above, the change will also have an impact on the way that the Company 
would have accounted for wages in each financial year, where, as a result of the scheduling of wage payments, the Company would physically 
pay more wages than have accrued for that working year. One such financial year is that ending 30 June 2010. In that financial year, the effect 
of the proposed change to accounting for wages is that expenses for wages and salaries for that year under the proposed change will be lower 
than would have been the case if no change had been made to the method of accounting for wages expenses. That is, the expense from the 
additional cash payment of wages will be reallocated to the earlier years to which it relates.

Adjustments to the current and prior years have been made using the payroll and staffing levels as they stood at the relevant date. 

The correction has been made during the year ended 30 June 2009 by restating each of the affected financial statement line items for the 
prior year, as described above.

Basic and diluted earnings per share for the prior year have also been restated.  The amount of the correction for both basic and diluted 
earnings per share was an increase of 0.07 cents per share.

62

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

5   Correction of error in reporting expenses in the previous year 

(continued)

The error had the the effect on various line items in the financial statements in the following manner: 

(a)  Consolidated

Balance Sheet

Current tax receivables

Total assets

Current payables

Total liabilities

Retained earnings

Total equity

Income Statement

Employee expenses

Profit before income tax

Income tax expense

Profit from continuing operations

Profit for the year

(b)  Parent 

Balance Sheet

Current tax receivables

Total assets

Current payables

Total liabilities

Retained earnings

Total equity

30 June 2008 
(as reported)

$’000

1,937

understated by

375

176,085

(6,107)

understated by

(90,962)

(19,504)

(85,123)

overstated by

375

(1,217)

(1,217)

839

839

30 June 2008 
(as reported)

$’000

33,275

overstated by

(103)

(4,886)

understated by

1,197

understated by

(3,689)

understated by

(12,317)

understated by

(103)

31

(71)

(71)

30 June 2008 
(as reported)

$’000

2,599

understated by

177,181

375

375

(12,419)

understated by

(1,217)

30 June 2008 
(revised and per 
current balance 
sheet)

$’000

2,312

176,460

(7,324)

(92,179)

(18,665)

(84,284)

30 June 2008 
(revised and per 
current Income 
statement)

$’000

33,172

(4,989)

1,228

(3,760)

(12,388)

30 June 2008 
(revised and per 
current balance 
sheet)

$’000

2,974

177,556

(13,636)

(99,428)

(10,019)

(77,750)

overstated by

(1,217)

(100,645)

839

839

(9,180)

(76,911)

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

63

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

5   Correction of error in reporting expenses in the previous year 

(continued)
(b)  Parent (continued)

Income Statement

Employee expenses

Profit before income tax

Income tax expense

Profit from continuing operations

Profit for the year

6  Revenue 

From continuing operations

Sales revenue

Revenue from rendering of services

Other revenue

Rent received

Interest

Dividends

Other Income

Net	gain	/	(loss)	from	sale	of	businesses	and	related	assets	(excluding	
discontinued operations)

Total revenue from continuing operations

(a)  Revenue from discontinued operations 

From discontinued operations (note 11)

National Revenue Corporation Pty Ltd

Insurance Claims Solutions Pty Ltd (formerly CHIP #1 Pty Ltd)

Australian	Business	Research	group	/	National	Tenancy	Database	Pty	Ltd

Downie and Associates Unit Trust

64

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

30 June 2008 
(as reported)

$’000

27,537

(7,715)

(3,211)

overstated by

understated by

understated by

(10,927)

understated by

(10,940)

understated by

30 June 2008 
(revised and per 
current Income 
statement

(103)

(103)

31

(71)

(71)

$’000

27,434

(7,818)

(3,180)

(10,998)

(11,011)

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

99,743

99,743

272

1,817

-

127

-

2,216

101,959

-

-

-

219

219

93,769

93,769

63

1,477

-

188

-

1,728

95,497

535

312

4,962

-

5,809

38,909

38,909

272

107

23,422

208

22

24,031

62,940

-

-

-

-

-

39,417

39,417

63

577

25,164

210

15

26,029

65,446

-

-

-

-

-

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

7  Other income

Foreign	exchange	gains/(losses)		(net)

8  Expenses 

Profit before income tax includes the following specific expenses:

Depreciation

   Dep - Leasehold improvements, plant and equipment

Total depreciation

Amortisation

   Amortisation - Leased plant and equipment

   Amortisation - Other intangibles

   Amortisation - Legal and court cost capitalised

Total amortisation

Finance costs

			Interest	and	finance	charges	paid/payable

Total Finance Costs

Fair Value losses

Fair Value losses on other financial assets (note 14)

Total Fair Value losses on other financial assets

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

(23)

30 June
2008

$’000

(5)

30 June
2009

$’000

-

30 June
2008

$’000

-

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

1,626

1,626

-

-

669

669

4,467

4,467

30,265

30,265

1,666

1,666

1

27

613

641

5,133

5,133

29,730

29,730

1,531

1,531

1,594

1,594

-

-

-

-

5,097

5,097

-

-

-

27

-

27

4,862

4,862

-

-

9  Write back of over-provided expenses

The following expenses include expense write backs in respect of the release  
of an overprovision relating to the settlement of the stamp duty issue as  
disclosed inthe 2008 Annual Report:

Other expenses

Legal expenses

Finance costs

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

(443)

(165)

(736)

(1,344)

-

-

-

-

-

(165)

-

(165)

-

-

-

-

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

65

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

10   Income tax expense

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

30 June
2008

(a) 

Income tax expense

Current income tax provision

Deferred income tax provision

Tax on discontinued operations

Under (over) provided in prior years

Income tax expense is attributable to:

Income	tax	expense/(benefit)	-	Profit	from	continuing	operations

Income	tax	expense/(benefit)	-	Profit	from	discontinued	operations

Aggregate income tax expense

Deferred income tax (revenue) expense included in income tax expense 
comprises:

Decrease (increase) in deferred tax assets (note 19)

(Decrease) increase in deferred tax liabilities (note 27)

$’000

3,235

(2,711)

-

2,600

3,124

3,059

65

3,124

1,407

(4,118)

(2,711)

(b)  Numerical reconciliation of income tax expense to prima facie tax payable

Profit from continuing operations before income tax expense

Profit from discontinuing operations before income tax expense

Tax at the Australian tax rate of 30% (2008 - 30%)

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

10,759

219

10,978

3,293

$’000

1,708

2,661

-

(443)

3,926

1,229

2,697

3,926

77

2,584

2,661

4,989

11,327

16,316

4,895

   Non-deductible expenses

   Non-deductible depreciation

   Non-deductible amortisation

   Non-deductible impairment 

    Non-assessable inter-company dividends from members of the 

tax-consolidated Group

   Capital gain on consolidation of new group members

   Tax benefit on wind up of discontinued operations

   Non-deductible writedown of investments in subsidiaries

   Tax losses not recognised

   Sundry items

(16)

278

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(700)

-

-

62

30 June
2009

$’000

(5,784)

575

-

126

30 June
2008

$’000

(3,679)

542

-

(37)

(5,083)

(3,174)

(5,083)

(3,180)

-

6

(5,083)

(3,174)

546

29

575

6,663

-

6,663

1,999

132

-

-

29

562

(20)

542

7,818

19

7,837

2,351

138

-

-

-

(7,027)

(7,549)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,452

-

1,014

(2,594)

3,277

4,535

(4,867)

66

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

10   Income tax expense (continued)

(b) 

 Numerical reconciliation of income tax expense to prima facie tax payable (continued)

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

-

(153)

-

-

(153)

3,124

30 June
2008

$’000

32

(641)

-

-

(609)

3,926

30 June
2009

$’000

-

(216)

-

-

30 June
2008

$’000

-

(580)

-

-

(216)

(5,083)

(580)

(3,174)

Difference in overseas tax rates

Adjustments for current tax of prior periods

Previously unrecognised tax losses used to reduce deferred tax expense

Previously unrecognised tax losses now recouped to reduce current  
tax expense

Income tax expense

11   Discontinued operation

National Revenue Corporation Pty Ltd

In February 2008 the company entered into agreements for the sale of the business of National Revenue Corporation Pty Ltd, which was 
included in the Contingent Collections segment of the company.  The sale transaction was completed on 22 February 2008 and the company 
is reported as a discontinued operation.

Financial information relating to the discontinued operation for the period to the date of disposal is set out below.  Further information is set 
out in note 4 - segment information.

(a) 

Financial performance and cash flow information

Revenue (note 6)

Expenses

Profit before income tax

Income tax expense

Profit after income tax of discontinued operations

Gain on sale of the division before income tax

Income tax expense

Gain on sale of the division after income tax

Profit from discontinued operation

Net cash inflow (outflow) from operating activities

Net cash inflow (outflow) from investing activities 

Net cash (outflow) from financing activities

Net increase in cash generated by the division

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

30 June
2008

$’000

535

(625)

(90)

27

(63)

254

108

362

299

-

-

-

-

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

36

(11)

25

25

-

-

-

-

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

67

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

11   Discontinued operation (continued)

National Revenue Corporation Pty Ltd (continued)

(b) 

Details of the sale of the division

Consideration received or receivable:

Cash

Total disposal consideration

Carrying amount of net assets sold

Expenses

Gain on sale before income tax

Income tax expense

Gain on sale after income tax

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

91

91

-

163

254

108

362

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

17

17

-

19

36

(11)

25

Insurance Claims Solutions Pty Ltd (formerly CHIP #1)

(a) 

Description

On 22 February 2008, the company sold its majority shareholding in Insurance Claims Solutions Pty Ltd (formerly Chip No 1 Pty Ltd) to the 
minority shareholders of that company. The sale of this business and its financial performance to disposal date is reported in this financial 
report as a discontinued operation.

(b) 

Financial performance and cash flow information

The financial performance and cash flow information presented are for the period ended 22 February 2008 (2008 column).

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

30 June
2008

$’000

312

(387)

(75)

23

(52)

225

28

253

201

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(24)

7

(17)

(17)

Revenue (note 6)

Expenses

Profit before income tax

Income tax expense

Profit after income tax of discontinued operations

Gain on sale of the division before income tax

Income tax expense

Gain on sale of the division after income tax

Profit from discontinued operation

68

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

11   Discontinued operation (continued)

National Revenue Corporation Pty Ltd (continued)

(c)   Details of the sale of the division

Cash

Present value of amount due on 31 March 2011

Carrying amount of net assets sold

Cost of disposal

Gain on sale before income tax

Income tax expense

Gain on sale after income tax

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

250

-

(14)

(11)

225

28

253

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

250

-

(260)

(14)

(24)

7

(17)

As a result of the sale of Insurance Claims Solutions Pty Ltd in the previous year, intellectual property with the value of $500,000 in CHIP 
No. 1 Pty Ltd was written off to nil. This transaction does not relate to the final sale of Insurance Claims Solutions Pty Ltd (formerly CHIP #1 
Pty Ltd).

Australian Business Research group/ National Tenancy Database Pty Ltd

(a) 

Description

On 30 June 2007 the company entered into conditional agreements for the sale of the group businesses of Australian Business Research Pty 
Ltd and National Tenancy Database Pty Ltd, which made up the credit reporting segment of the company.  The agreements, subject to certain 
conditions precedent, also required regulatory clearance from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. This clearance was 
given in August 2007, and the other conditions were met in September 2007. The sale transaction was completed on 6 September 2007, and 
the division is reported in this financial report as a discontinued operation.

Financial information relating to the discontinued operation for the period to the date of disposal (31 December 2006) is set out below.  Further 
information is set out in note 4 - segment information.

(b) 

Financial performance and cash flow information

The financial performance and cash flow information presented are for the two months ended 31 August 2007 (2008 column).

Revenue (note 6)

Expenses

Profit before income tax

Income tax expense

Profit after income tax of discontinued operations

Gain on sale of the division before income tax

Income tax expense

Gain on sale of the division after income tax

Profit from discontinued operation

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

30 June
2008

$’000

4,962

(3,879)

1,083

(325)

758

9,928

(2,558)

7,370

8,128

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7

(2)

5

5

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

69

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

11   Discontinued operation (continued)

Australian Business Research group/ National Tenancy Database Pty Ltd (continued)

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

-

-  

-

-

30 June
2008

$’000

(5,861)

31,070

-

25,209

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

-

-

-

-

6 September 
2007

$’000

268

18,144

18,412

18,412

30 June
2009

$’000

31 August
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

30 June
2008

$’000

31,070

-

(18,412)

(2,730)

9,928

(2,558)

7,370

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7

7

(2)

5

Net cash inflow (outlow) from operating activities

Net cash inflow (outflow) from investing activities

Net cash (outflow) from financing activities

Net increase in cash generated by the division

(c) 

Carrying amounts of assets and liabilities

The carrying amounts of assets sold as at the date of sale (6 September 2007):

Property, plant and equipment

Intangibles

Total assets

Net assets

(d)   Details of the sale of the division

Cash

Present value of amount due on 31 March 2011

Carrying amount of net assets sold

Expenses

Gain on sale before income tax

Income tax expense

Gain on sale after income tax

70

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

11   Discontinued operation (continued)

Downie & Associates Unit Trust

(a) 

Recovery of previously impaired assets

As reported in the year ended 30 June 2005, on 17 September 2004 the consolidated entity sold the business of Downie & Associates, recording 
a profit on disposal of $78,000, and recognising a non-current receivable of $970,000. As part of the transition to AIFRS, on 1 July 2005, the 
company adopted AASB132 - Financial Instruments: Disclosure and Presentation and AASB139 -  Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement, and at that date, based on management’s assessment, the $970,000 receivable was fully impaired as there appeared to be no 
prospect of recovery. Under the stricter rules of AIFRS, the company was required to impair the debt to the level of potential recovery.

Subsequent  to  the  impairment,  $219,000  has  been  recovered  ($151,000  after  income  tax),  which  has  been  included  as  a  profit  from 
discontinued operations. As management has no expectation of further recoveries in future periods, no amounts have been reinstated for 
this receivable. Any future recoveries will be recorded as profits from discontinued operations as they are received.

Financial information relating to the discontinued operation for the period to the date of disposal (11 May 2007) is set out below.  Further 
information is set out in note 4 - segment information.

(b) 

Financial performance and cash flow information

The financial performance and cash flow information presented are for the 12 months ended 30 June 2009. There were no recoveries of the 
non-current receivable in the prior year.

Revenue (note 6)

Income tax expense

Profit from discontinued operation

(c) Details of the sale of the division

Consideration received or receivable:

Cash

Gain on sale before income tax

Income tax expense

Gain on sale after income tax

Summary of Discontinued Operations

National Revenue Corporation Pty Ltd

Insurance Claims Solutions Pty Ltd (formerly CHIP #1)

Australian	Business	Research	group/	National	Tenancy	Database	Pty	Ltd

Downie & Associates Unit Trust

Profit from discontinued operations

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

219

(65)

154

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

154

154

-

-

-

-

299

201

8,128

-

8,628

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

25

(17)

5

-

13

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

71

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

12   Current assets - Cash and cash equivalents

Cash at bank and in hand

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

584

584

30 June
2008

$’000

937

937

30 June
2009

$’000

132

132

30 June
2008

$’000

801

801

(a)  Reconciliation to cash at the end of the year

The above figures are reconciled to cash at the end of the financial year as shown in the statement of cash flows as follows:

Bank overdraft right of set-off

Balances as above

Bank overdrafts (note 23)

Balances per statement of cash flows

(b)  Cash at bank and on hand

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

584

-

584

30 June
2008

$’000

937

(2,801)

(1,864)

30 June
2009

$’000

132

(4,678)

(4,546)

30 June
2008

$’000

801

(4,099)

(3,298)

Information concerning the effective interest rates is set out in the non-current receivables note 16. 

(c)  Fair value

The carrying amount for cash and cash equivalents equals the fair value. 

(d)  Bank overdraft right of set-off

With effect from 1 July 2004, the company holds a contractual right of set-off between the current overdraft balance and the  
cash-at-bank balances. 

72

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

13   Current assets - Receivables

Net trade receivables

Trade debtors

Provision for impairment of receivables (note (a))

Loans to controlled entities

Other loans

Other debtors

(a) 

Impaired trade receivables

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

2,078

(318)

1,760

(7)

(7)

48

2,829

2,877

4,630

2,927

(690)

2,237

(9)

(9)

49

1,911

1,960

4,188

1,462

(185)

1,277

206

206

49

1,674

1,723

3,206

1,889

(448)

1,441

201

201

48

908

956

2,598

As at 30 June 2009 current trade receivables of the Group with a nominal value of $468,000 (2008 - $907,000) were impaired.  The amount of 
the provision was $318,000 (2008 - $690,000).  The individually impaired receivables mainly relate to debtors which have been outstanding for 
more than 90 days. It has been assessed that a portion of these receivables are expected to be recovered.

As at 30 June 2009 current trade receivables of the Parent with a nominal value of $185,000 (2008 - $603,000) were impaired.  The amount 
of the provision was $185,000 (2008 - $448,000).  The individually impaired receivables mainly relate to debtors which have been outstanding 
for more than 90 days. It has been assessed that a portion of these receivables are expected to be recovered.

The ageing of these receivables is as follows:

1 to 3 months

3 to 6 months

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

-

468

468

30 June
2008

$’000

-

907

907

30 June
2009

$’000

-

185

185

30 June
2008

$’000

-

603

603

Movements in the provision for impairment of receivables are as follows:

At 1 July

Provision for impairment recognised during the year

Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible

Unused amount reversed

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

690

85

-

(457)

318

30 June
2008

$’000

1,808

456

(891)

(683)

690

30 June
2009

$’000

448

53

-

(316)

185

30 June
2008

$’000

1,374

367

(652)

(641)

448

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

73

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

13   Current assets - Receivables (continued)

(a) 

Impaired trade receivables (continued)

The creation and release of the provision for impaired receivables has been included in ‘other expenses’ in the income statement. Amounts 
charged to the allowance account are generally written off when there is no expectation of recovering additional cash. 

The  other  classes  within  trade  and  other  receivables  do  not  contain  impaired  assets  and  are  not  past  due.    Based  on  the  credit  history 
of these other classes, it is expected that these amounts will be received when due. The Group does not hold any collateral in relation to 
these receivables.

(b)  Past due but not impaired

As of 30 June 2009, trade receivables of the Group of $291,000 (2008 - $556,000) were past due but not impaired.  These relate to a number 
of independent customers for whom there is no recent history of default.   

As of 30 June 2009, trade receivables of the Parent of $259,000 (2008 - $488,000) were past due but not impaired.  These relate to a number 
of independent customers for whom there is no recent history of default.  

The ageing analysis of these trade receivables is as follows: 

Up to 3 months

3 to 6 months

(c)  Other receivables

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

291

-

291

2008

$’000

556

-

556

2009

$’000

259

-

259

2008

$’000

488

-

488

These amounts relate to accrued revenue and rental bonds of the Group and the Parent.  In addition, for the parent entity, this item includes 
receivables from group companies. 

(d)  Effective interest rates and credit risk

Information concerning the effective interest rate and credit risk of both current and non-current receivables is set out in the non-current 
receivables note 16. 

(e)  Foreign exchange and interest rate risk

Refer to note 16(d) for an analysis of Group’s exposure to foreign currency risk in relation to trade and other receivables.

Information about the Group’s and the parent entity’s exposure to exposure to foreign currency risk and interest rate risk in relation to trade 
and other receivables is provided in note 2. 

(f)  Fair value and credit risk

Due to the short-term nature of these receivables, their carrying amount is assumed to approximate their fair value. 

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying amount of each class of receivables mentioned above. Refer to note 
2 for more information on the risk management policy of the Group and the credit quality of the entity’s trade receivables.

74

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

14   Other financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Current and Non-Current

At beginning of year

Reclassification of capitalised costs

Adjustment on adoption of AASB 132 and AASB 139

Additions

Fair	value	gain	/	(loss)

At end of year

Other Financial Assets at fair value through Profit and Loss

The amount of the above financial assets are classified as follows:

Current

Non Current

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

143,470

102,669

-

-

33,711

(30,265)

146,916

-

-

70,395

(29,594)

143,470

-

-

-

-

-

-

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

146,916

146,916

2008

$’000

143,470

143,470

2009

$’000

-

-

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

29,999

116,917

146,916

2008

$’000

36,511

106,959

143,470

2009

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2008

$’000

-

-

2008

$’000

-

-

-

Gains	/	(losses)	in	fair	values	of	other	financial	assets	at	fair	value	through	profit	or	loss	are	recorded		in	the	income	statement.

(a)  Risk exposure

Information about the Group’s and the parent entity’s exposure to credit risk, foreign exchange and price risk are provided in note 2.

15   Current assets - Other current assets

Other deposits

Prepayments

Other

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

16

980

-

996

2008

$’000

22

695

772

1,489

2009

$’000

1

942

-

943

2008

$’000

-

645

-

645

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

75

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

16   Non-current assets - Receivables

Loans to controlled entities

*  Refer to note 13 for the current portions of these receivables. 

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

-

-

2008

$’000

-

-

2009

$’000

154,885

154,885

2008

$’000

134,929

134,929

Further information relating to loans to related parties and key management personnel is set out in notes 34 and 38 respectively.

(a) 

Impaired receivables and receivables past due

None of the non-current receivables are impaired or past due but not impaired. 

(b)  Fair values

The fair values and carrying values of non-current receivables are as follows: 

Parent entity

Loans to related parties

2009

2008

Carrying 
amount

$’000

154,885

154,885

Fair value

$’000

154,885

154,885

Carrying 
amount

$’000

134,929

134,929

Fair value

$’000

134,929

134,929

The carrying amount of the intercompany receivable is reviewed each year to ensure that there are sufficient underlying assets in the related 
party to recover the debts. If there are insufficient assets, the carrying amount is reduced accordingly. 

(c) 

Interest rate risk

The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk and the effective weighted average interest rate by maturity periods is set out in the following 
tables. 

Floating 
interest rate

$’000

-

-

-

-

579

579

6.0%

Non- 
interest 
bearing

$’000

1,760

-

2,877

Total

$’000

1,760

-

2,877

146,916

146,916

5

584

151,558

152,137

-%

2009

Trade receivables

Other deposits

Other receivables

Purchased Debt

Cash & cash equivalents

Weighted average interest rate (%)

76

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

16   Non-current assets - Receivables (continued)

(c) 

Interest rate risk (continued)

2008

Trade receivables

Other deposits

Other receivables

Purchased debt

Cash & cash equivalents

Weighted average interest rate

Floating 
interest rate

$’000

-

-

-

-

238

238

7.5%

Non- 
interest 
bearing

$’000

2,240

24

1,899

Total

$’000

2,240

24

1,899

143,470

143,470

4

242

147,637

147,875

-%

(d)  Foreign currency and interest rate risk

The carrying amounts of the Group’s and parent entity’s current and non-current receivables are denominated in Australian dollars.

(e)  Credit risk

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying amount of each class of receivables mentioned above.  The Group 
does not hold any collateral as security.  Refer to note 2 for more information on the risk management policy of the Group. 

17   Non-current assets - Available-for-sale financial assets

At beginning of year

Additions

Disposals (sale and redemption)

Losses from impairment

(a)    Fair values

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2009

$’000

16,116

-

-

(99)

16,017

2008

$’000

20,432

844

(1,467)

(3,693)

16,116

Available-for-sale financial assets include the following classes of financial assets:

Unlisted securities (note (b))

Equity securities

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

-

-

16,017

16,116

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

77

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

17  

 Non-current assets - Available-for-sale financial assets 
(continued)

(b)  Unlisted securities

Unlisted securities are traded in inactive markets.  Their fair value is determined based on the fair value of the net assets of the underlying 
subsidiaries.  The  assets  of  each  subsidiary  are  tested  for  impairment  annually  using  expected  cashflows  for  the  entity  within  its  cash 
generating unit. If the net assets are less than the carrying value of the investment and it is considered that the carrying value of the asset is 
not recoverable, the investment is impaired to the point at which the carrying amount is recoverable from the underlying assets. 

18   Non-current assets - Property, plant and equipment

Plant and 
equipment

Motor vehicles

Leasehold 
improvements

Leased plant & 
equipment

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

909

(241)

668

668

557

(269)

-

(83)

-

873

1,090

(217)

873

8

(5)

3

3

-

-

-

(1)

-

2

8

(6)

2

11,584

(9,251)

2,333

2,333

560

(342)

-

(703)

-

1,848

10,719

(8,871)

1,848

Work-in- 
progress

$’000

472

-

472

472

768

-

-

-

(456)

784

-

-

-

-

9

-

-

-

-

9

9

-

9

Total

$’000

12,973

(9,497)

3,476

3,476

1,894

(611)

-

(787)

(456)

3,516

Consolidated

At 1 July 2007

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Year ended 30 June 2008

Opening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Impairment charge recognised in profit and loss

Depreciation charge

Transfers

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2008

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Consolidated

At 1 July 2007

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Year ended 30 June 2008

Opening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Impairment charge recognised in profit and loss

Depreciation charge

Transfers

Closing net book amount

78

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

18  

 Non-current assets - Property, plant and equipment 
(continued)

Consolidated

At 30 June 2008

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Consolidated

Year ended 30 June 2009

Opening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Reversal of Impairment charge in profit and loss

Transfers to assets held for sale

Depreciation charge

Transfers

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2009

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Consolidated

Year ended 30 June 2009

Opening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Reversal of Impairment charge in profit and loss

Transfers to assets held for sale

Depreciation charge

Transfers

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2009

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Work-in- 
progress

$’000

784

-

784

Total

$’000

12,610

(9,094)

3,516

Plant and 
equipment

Motor vehicles

Leasehold 
improvements

Leased plant & 
equipment

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

873

56

(1,647)

-

-

(245)

3,494

2,531

2,815

(284)

2,531

2

-

(2)

-

-

-

-

-

2

(2)

-

1,848

315

(395)

18

-

(679)

3,247

4,354

7,399

(3,045)

4,354

Work-in- 
progress

$’000

784

6,886

-

-

-

-

(7,605)

65

65

-

65

9

-

-

-

-

(2)

-

7

9

(2)

7

Total

$’000

3,516

7,257

(2,044)

18

-

(926)

(864)

6,957

10,290

(3,333)

6,957

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

79

 
 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

18  

 Non-current assets - Property, plant and equipment 
(continued)

Company

At 1 July 2007

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Year ended 30 June 2008

Opening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Depreciation charge

Transfers

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2008

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Year ended 30 June 2009

Opening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Reversal of Impairment charge in profit and loss

Depreciation charge

Impairment loss

Transfers

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2009

Cost or fair value

Accumulated depreciation

Net book amount

Plant and 
equipment

Leasehold 
improvements

$‘000

$’000

Work-in- 
progress

$’000

10,556

(8,507)

2,049

2,049

543

(121)

(710)

(164)

1,597

9,897

(8,300)

1,597

1,597

130

(366)

19

(612)

-

3,246

4,014

6,586

(2,572)

4,014

849

(220)

629

629

552

(240)

(80)

-

861

1,071

(210)

861

861

56

(1,647)

-

(242)

-

3,495

2,523

2,796

(273)

2,523

558

-

558

558

768

-

-

(542)

784

784

-

784

784

6,886

-

-

-

-

(7,605)

65

65

-

65

Total

$’000

11,963

(8,727)

3,236

3,236

1,863

(361)

(790)

(706)

3,242

11,752

(8,510)

3,242

3,242

7,072

(2,013)

19

(854)

-

(864)

6,602

9,447

(2,845)

6,602

(a)  Non-current assets pledged as security

Refer to note 26 for information on non-current assets pledged as security by the parent entity and its controlled entities.

80

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

19   Non-current assets - Deferred tax assets

The balance comprises temporary differences attributable to:

Accruals

Future deductible windup costs

Doubtful debts

Provisions and employee benefits

Receivables impairment (note 13(a))

Fixed assets

Sundry

Set-off of deferred tax liabilities pursuant to  
set-off provisions (note 27)

Net deferred tax assets

Movements:

Opening balance at 1 July

Change on adoption of AASB 132 and AASB 139 (note 1)

Credited/(charged)	to	the	income	statement	(note	10)

Closing balance at 30 June

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

194

623

95

710

-

43

431

2,096

2008

$’000

407

934

200

713

68

320

863

3,505

(2,096)

(3,505)

-

-

3,505

-

(1,409)

2,096

3,582

-

(77)

3,505

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

194

623

60

610

-

51

428

1,966

(32)

1,934

2,518

-

(546)

1,972

271

934

87

601

-

318

307

2,518

(3)

2,515

3,080

-

(562)

2,518

Tax losses

Employee 
benefits

Doubtful 
Debts

Fixed Assets

Receivables 
impairment & 
accruals

Future 
deductible 
windup costs

Movements - Consolidated

At 1 July 2007

(Charged)/credited	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2008

Movements - Consolidated

At 1 July 2007

(Charged)/credited	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2008

$’000

135

(135)

-

Sundry

$’000

138

725

863

$’000

820

(107)

713

Total

$’000

3,582

(77)

3,505

$’000

542

(342)

200

$’000

$’000

395

(75)

320

306

169

475

$’000

1,246

(312)

934

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

81

 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

19   Non-current assets - Deferred tax assets (continued)

Employee 
benefits

Doubtful 
Debts

Fixed assets

Receivables 
impairment & 
accruals

Future 
deductible 
windup costs

$’000

200

(105)

95

$’000

320

(277)

43

$’000

475

(281)

194

$’000

934

(311)

623

Movements - Consolidated

At 30 June 2008

Charged/(credited)	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2009

Movements - Consolidated

At 30 June 2008

Charged/(credited)	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2009

$’000

713

(3)

710

Total

$’000

3,505

(1,409)

2,096

Sundry

$’000

863

(432)

431

Tax losses

Employee 
benefits

Doubtful 
Debts

Fixed Assets

Receivables 
impairment & 
accruals

Future 
deductible 
windup costs

Movements - Company

At 1 July 2007

(Charged)/credited	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2008

Movements - Company

At 1 July 2007

(Charged)/credited	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2008

Movements - Company

At 30 June 2008

Charged/(credited)	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2009

Movements - Company

At 30 June 2008

Charged/(credited)	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2009

$’000

121

(121)

-

Sundry

$’000

-

307

307

$’000

688

(87)

601

Total

$’000

3,080

(562)

2,518

Employee 
benefits

Doubtful 
Debts

$’000

$’000

87

(26)

61

601

9

610

Total

$’000

2,518

(546)

1,972

$’000

412

(325)

87

$’000

$’000

377

(59)

318

236

35

271

$’000

1,246

(312)

934

Receivables 
impairment & 
accruals

Future 
deductible 
windup costs

Fixed Assets

$’000

318

(267)

51

$’000

271

(77)

194

$’000

934

(311)

623

Sundry

$’000

307

126

433

82

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

20   Non-current assets - Intangible assets

Consolidated

At 1 July 2007

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book amount

Year 30 June 2008

Opening net book amount

Additions

Impairment charge

Amortisation charge

Disposals

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2008

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book amount

Consolidated

Year 30 June 2009

Opening net book amount

Additions

Impairment charge

Amortisation charge

Disposals

Transfers

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2009

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book amount

Goodwill

Computer 
software

Other 
intangible 
assets

$’000

$’000

$’000

28,696

(6,993)

21,703

21,703

-

-

-

(3,856)

17,847

28,026

(10,179)

17,847

7,587

(5,624)

1,963

1,963

826

-

(820)

(42)

1,927

6,194

(4,267)

1,927

1,587

(1,162)

425

425

60

-

-

-

485

1,005

(520)

485

Goodwill

Computer 
software

Other 
intangible 
assets

$’000

$’000

$’000

17,847

-

-

-

(6)

-

17,841

28,028

(10,187)

17,841

1,927

222

-

(735)

-

722

2,136

7,138

(5,002)

2,136

485

34

-

-

-

-

519

20,496

1,039

(520)

519

36,205

(15,709)

20,496

Total

$’000

37,870

(13,779)

24,091

24,091

886

-

(820)

(3,898)

20,259

35,225

(14,966)

20,259

Total

$’000

20,259

256

-

(735)

(6)

722

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

83

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

20   Non-current assets - Intangible assets (continued)

Goodwill

Computer 
software

Other 
intangible 
assets

$’000

$’000

$’000

14,687

(3,333)

11,354

11,354

450

-

-

11,804

14,687

(2,883)

11,804

5,306

(3,407)

1,899

1,899

810

(807)

(5)

1,897

6,124

(4,227)

1,897

450

-

450

450

35

-

(450)

35

485

(450)

35

Goodwill

Computer 
software

Other 
intangible 
assets

$’000

$’000

$’000

11,804

-

-

-

-

-

11,804

14,687

(2,883)

11,804

1,897

208

-

(720)

-

722

2,107

7,054

(4,947)

2,107

35

34

-

-

-

-

69

13,980

519

(450)

69

22,260

(8,280)

13,980

Total

$’000

20,443

(6,740)

13,703

13,703

1,295

(807)

(455)

13,736

21,296

(7,560)

13,736

Total

$’000

13,736

242

-

(720)

-

722

Company

At 1 July 2007

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book amount

Year 30 June 2008

Opening net book amount

Additions

Amortisation charge

Disposals

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2008

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book amount

Company

Year 30 June 2009

Opening net book amount

Additions

Impairment charge

Amortisation charge

Disposals

Transfers

Closing net book amount

At 30 June 2009

Cost

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Net book amount

84

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

21   Non-current assets - Other non-current assets

Legal and court costs capitalised

Legal & Court costs - accumulated amortisation

22   Current liabilities - Payables 

Trade creditors

Other creditors and accruals

Intercompany Loans

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

3,929

(3,700)

229

2008

$’000

3,322

(3,030)

292

2009

$’000

-

-

-

2008

$’000

-

-

-

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

1,979

2,643

-

4,622

2008

$’000

1,162

6,162

-

7,324

2009

$’000

2,600

3,723

8,562

14,885

2008

$’000

1,352

3,829

8,455

13,636

(a)      Risk exposure
Information about the Group’s and the parent entity’s exposure to foreign exchange risk is provided in note 2.

23   Current liabilities - Borrowings

Secured

Bank overdraft

Total secured current borrowings

Unsecured

Total unsecured current borrowings

Further information relating to Borrowings is set out in note 26.

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

-

-

-

2008

$’000

2,801

2,801

2009

$’000

4,678

4,678

2008

$’000

4,099

4,099

-

-

-

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

85

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

24   Current liabilities - Provisions

Provisions - Employee benefits

Restructuring 2008

Restructuring 2009

(a)  Movements in provisions

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

1,950

-

50

2,000

2008

$’000

2,054

1,016

-

3,070

2009

$’000

1,651

-

50

1,701

2008

$’000

1,722

1,016

-

2,738

Movements in each class of provision during the financial year, other than employee benefits, are set out below:

Restructuring 
2008

Restructuring 
2009

$’000

$’000

Consolidated - 2009

Current

Carrying amount at start of year

- additional provisions recognised

- amounts incurred and charged

- unused amounts reversed

Carrying amount at end of year

Company - 2009

Current

Carrying amount at start of year

- additional provisions recognised

-	payments/other	sacrifices	of	economic	benefits

- amounts incurred and charged

- unused amounts reversed

Carrying amount at end of year

1,016

399

-

(1,117)

(298)

-

-

554

-

(504)

-

50

25   Non-current liabilities - Payables

Loans from controlled entities (unsecured)

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

-

-

2008

$’000

-

-

2009

$’000

21,858

21,858

2008

$’000

18,631

18,631

86

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

26   Non-current liabilities - Borrowings

Secured

Secured - Bank loans

Total non-current borrowings

(a)     Total secured liabilities

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

69,700

69,700

2008

$’000

61,100

61,100

2009

$’000

69,700

69,700

2008

$’000

61,100

61,100

The total secured liabilities (current and non-current) are as follows:

Bank overdrafts and bank loans

Total secured liabilities

69,700

69,700

63,901

63,901

74,378

74,378

65,199

65,199

(b)     Secured liabilities and assets pledged as security 

The total secured liabilities (current and non-current) are as follows:

Bank overdrafts and bank loans

Total secured liabilities

69,700

69,700

63,901

63,901

74,378

74,378

65,199

65,199

All bank loans and overdraft are denominated in Australian dollars and are secured by a fixed and floating charge over all of the assets and 
uncalled capital of the Company and certain of its controlled entities.   

Other loans are secured by a fixed and floating charge over the assets of a controlled entity. 

The carrying amounts of assets pledged as security for current and non-current borrowings are: 

Consolidated

Company

Cash and cash equivalents

Receivables

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Finance lease

   Plant and equipment

   Available-for-sale financial assets

   Plant and equipment

Notes

12

13

14

18

17

18

2009

$’000

584

4,630

2008

$’000

937

4,186

146,916

143,470

-

-

6,957

6,957

2

-

1,848

1,848

Total assets pledged as security

159,087

150,443

2009

$’000

132

3,206

-

-

16,017

6,602

22,619

25,957

2008

$’000

801

2,599

-

-

16,116

1,597

17,713

21,113

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

26   Non-current liabilities - Borrowings (continued)

(c)  Fair value

The carrying amounts and fair values of borrowings at balance date are

Group

On-balance sheet (i)

Non-traded financial liabilities

Bank overdrafts

Bank loans

On-balance sheet (i)

Non-traded financial liabilities

Bank overdrafts

Bank loans

At 30 June 2009

At 30 June 2008

Carrying 
amount

Fair value

Carrying 
amount

Fair value

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

-

69,700

69,700

4,678

69,700

74,378

-

69,700

69,700

4,678

69,700

74,378

2,801

61,100

63,901

4,099

61,100

65,199

2,801

61,100

63,901

4,099

61,100

65,199

As noted, none of the classes of liabilities are readily traded on organised markets in standardised form.

(i) 

On-balance sheet

The fair value of current borrowings equals their carrying amount. The facility is structured as a series of loan instruments which are renewed 
on a regular basis with terms of less than six months, and the impact of discounting on such instruments is not material. The overall facility 
is classified as non-current.

(d)  Risk exposures

Information about the Group‘s and parent entity‘s exposure to interest rate and foreign currency changes is provided in note 2.

For an analysis of the sensitivity of borrowings to interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk refer to note 2.

88

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

27   Non-current liabilities - Deferred tax liabilities

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

The balance comprises temporary differences attributable to:

Prepayments

Purchased debt

Intangibles

Fixed Assets 

Sundry (note 30)

Setoff of deferred tax liabilities pursuant to setoff provisions (note 19)

Net deferred tax liabilities

Movements:

Opening balance at 1 July

Change on adoption of AASB 132 and AASB 139 (note 1)

Charged/(credited)	to	the	income	statement	(note	10)

Closing balance at 30 June

4

6

16,384

20,873

-

-

427

16,815

(2,096)

14,719

43

11

-

20,933

(3,505)

17,428

20,933

18,349

-

(4,118)

16,815

-

2,584

20,933

Property, 
plant and 
equipment Prepayments

Purchased 
debt

Movements - Consolidated

$’000

$’000

At 1 July 2007

Charged/(credited)	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2008

63

(52)

11

77

(71)

6

$’000

18,102

2,771

20,873

Property, 
plant and 
equipment Prepayments

Purchased 
debt

Movements - Consolidated

$’000

$’000

At 30 June 2008

Charged/(credited)	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2009

11

(11)

-

6

(2)

4

$’000

20,873

(4,489)

16,384

Movements - Company

At 1 July 2007

Assumption of tax losses from tax consolidated entities

At 30 June 2008

At 30 June 2008

Charged/(credited)	to	the	income	statement

At 30 June 2009

Intangibles

$’000

45

(2)

43

Intangibles

$’000

43

(43)

-

Prepayments

$’000

2

1

3

3

(1)

2

2

-

-

-

30

32

(32)

-

3

-

29

32

Other

$’000

62

(62)

-

Other

$’000

-

427

427

Other

$’000

21

(21)

-

-

30

30

3

-

-

-

-

3

(3)

-

23

-

(20)

3

Total

$’000

18,349

2,584

20,933

Total

$’000

20,933

(4,118)

16,815

Total

$’000

23

(20)

3

3

29

32

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

89

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

28   Non-current liabilities - Provisions

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

211

211

2008

$’000

159

159

2009

$’000

182

182

2008

$’000

144

144

Provisions - Employee benefits

29   Employee benefits

(a)  Superannuation plans

All employees are entitled to varying levels of benefits on retirement, disability or death.  The superannuation plans provide accumulated 
benefits.  Employees contribute to the plans at various percentages of their wages and salaries.  Where there is a legal requirement the 
Company contributes the appropriate statutory percentage of employees salaries and wages.

30   Contributed equity

(a)    Share capital
Ordinary shares

Fully paid

Total contributed equity - parent entity

(b)    Movements in ordinary share Capital:
Issues of ordinary shares during the year

Date

1 July 2007

30 June 2008

1 July 2008

30 June 2009

(c)  Ordinary shares

Company

Company

2009

Shares

2008

Shares

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

97,321,881

97,321,881

97,321,881

97,321,881

67,256

67,256

67,256

67,256

67,256

67,256

Details

Number of shares

Opening balance

97,321,881

Closing Balance

97,321,881

Opening balance

97,321,881

Closing Balance

97,321,881

$’000

67,256

67,256

67,256

67,256

Ordinary shares entitle the holder to participate in dividends and the proceeds on winding up of the company in proportion to the number of 
and amounts paid on the shares held. 

On a show of hands every holder of ordinary shares present at a meeting in person or by proxy, is entitled to one vote, and upon a poll each 
share is entitled to one vote.

90

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

30   Contributed equity (continued)

(d)  Employee share scheme

Information relating to the employee share scheme, including details of shares issued under the scheme, is set out in note 41.

(e)  Options

Information	relating	to	options	provided	as	part	of	the	the	MD/CEO	remuneration	package	and	option	provided	under	the	Collection	House	
Executive Share Option Plan, including details of options issued, exercised and lapsed during the financial year and options outstanding at 
the end of the financial year, is set out in note 41.

(f)  Capital risk management

The Group’s and the parent entity’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard their ability to continue as a going concern, and to 
provide adequate returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders.

“Capital” includes all funding provided under the group’s funding facility (net of cash balances for which a right of offset is held) plus Equity 
as shown in the balance sheet.

In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may:

•	

•	

•	

•	

•	

draw down or repay debt funding, 

adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders;

negotiate new or additional facilities or cancel existing ones, 

return capital to shareholders or issue new shares or 

sell assets to reduce debt.

The Group and the parent entity manage capital to ensure that the goals of continuing as a going concern, and the provision of acceptable 
stakeholder returns are met.

Arrangements  with  the  group’s  financier  are  in  place  to  ensure  that  there  is  sufficient  undrawn  credit  available  to  meet  unforeseen 
circumstances should they arise. Financing facilities are renegotiated on a regular basis to ensure that they are sufficient for the company’s 
projected growth plus a buffer. As far as possible, asset purchases are funded from operational cashflow, allowing undrawn balances to be 
maintained. Cash is monitored on a daily basis to ensure that immediate and short term requirements can be met. By maintaining a buffer 
of undrawn funds, the company reduces the risk of liquidity and going concern issues.

Management of mix between debt and equity impacts the company’s Cost of Capital and hence ability to provide returns to stakeholders, 
primarily the funding institutions and shareholders. The company maintains its debt-to-equity mix in accordance with its immediate needs 
and forecasts at any point in time. Effective management of the capital structure maximises profit and hence franked dividend returns to 
shareholders.

When additional funding is required, it is sourced from either debt or equity, depending upon management’s evaluation as to which is the 
most appropriate at that point in time.

The financing facility includes all funding provided by the group’s main banker. Details of drawn and undrawn financing facilities are set out 
in note 2(c).

Quantitative  analyses  are  conducted  by  management  using  contributed  equity  balances  shown  above  together  with  the  the  drawn  and 
undrawn loan balances disclosed in note 2(c).

As part of the financing facility, the company is required to monitor a number of financial indicators as specified by the financier. The group 
monitors the indicators on a monthly basis and reports to the funding provider every six months. The company has materially met these 
covenant at all times during the year.

This strategy was followed during both the 2009 and 2008 financial years.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

91

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

31   Reserves and retained profits

(a)    Reserves
Share-based payments reserve

Foreign currency translation reserve

Movements:

Share-based payments reserve

Balance at beginning of period

Option expense

Balance 30 June

Movements:

Foreign currency translation reserve

Balance at beginning of period

Net investment hedge

Currency translation differences arising during the year :

Balance 30 June

(b)  Retained profits

Movements in retained profits were as follows:

Balance 1 July

Net profit for the year

Dividends

Adjustment on adoption of accounting standard (net of tax) (note 14)

Balance 30 June

(c)  Nature and purpose of reserves

(i) 

Share-based payments reserve

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

878

(707)

171

475

403

878

2008

$’000

475

(794)

(319)

128

347

475

(794)

(255)

83

(711)

(539)

(794)

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

878

-

878

475

403

878

-

-

-

475

-

475

128

347

475

-

-

-

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

18,665

7,854

(4,671)

(1,315)

20,533

2008

$’000

10,366

12,387

(4,088)

-

2009

$’000

9,183

11,746

(4,671)

-

18,665

16,258

2008

$’000

2,257

11,011

(4,088)

-

9,180

The share based payments reserve is used to recognise the fair value of options issued to employees but not exercised.

(ii) 

Foreign currency translation reserve

Exchange differences arising on translation of the foreign controlled entity are taken to the foreign currency translation reserve, as described 
in note 1(d).  The reserve is recognised in profit and loss when the net investment is disposed of.

92

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

32   Minority interest

Interest in:

Minority interest - Retained profits

The remaining 15.8 % minority interest in the Rapid Ratings subsidiary 
group (Collection House Business Diagnostics Pty Ltd and ACN 096 967 
485 Pty Ltd) was purchased for $1 during the year in preparation for the 
deregistration of the two subsidiary companies. As disclosed in note 1(a), the 
group has adopted the amendments to AASB 3 and AASB 127 from 1 July 
2008, and the Minority Interest in Equity has been transferred directly  
to Retained Earnings.

33   Dividends

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

-

-

2008

$’000

(1,318)

(1,318)

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

(a)    Ordinary shares
Fully franked final dividend for the year ended 30 June 2008 - 2.5 cents per share  
(2007 - 2.0 cents, unfranked)

Fully franked interim dividend for the year ended 30 June 2009 - 2.3 cents per share (2008: 2.2 cents) 

Paid in cash

(b)  Dividends not recognised at year end

In  addition  to  the  above  dividends,  since  year  end  the  directors  have  recommended  the  payment  of  a  fully 
franked final dividend of 2.6 cents per fully paid ordinary share (2008 - 2.5 cents, fully franked).  The aggregate 
amount of the proposed dividend expected to be paid on 27 November 2009 out of retained profits at 30 June 
2009, but not recognised as a liability at year end, is

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

2,433

2,238

4,671

1,946

2,142

4,088

Company

30 June
2009

30 June
2008

$’000

4,671

4,671

$’000

4,088

4,088

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

2,530

2,530

2,433

2,433

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

93

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

33   Dividends (continued)

(c)  Franked dividends

The franked portions of the final dividends recommended after 30 June 2009 will be franked out of existing franking credits or out of franking 
credits arising from the payment of income tax in the year ending 30 June 2010.

The financial effect of this dividend has not been brought to account in the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2009 and will be 
recognised in subsequent financial reports.

Franking credits available for subsequent financial years based on a tax rate 
of 30% (2008 - 30%)

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

30 June
2009

$’000

30 June
2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

The above amounts represent the balance of the franking account as at the end of the financial year, adjusted for:

(a)  franking credits that will arise from the payment of the amount of the provision for income tax,

(b)  franking debits that will arise from the payment of dividends recognised as a liability at the reporting date, 

(c)  franking credits that will arise from the receipt of dividends recognised as receivables at the reporting date, and

(d)  franking credits that may be prevented from being distributed in subsequent financial years.

The consolidated amounts include franking credits that would be available to the parent entity if distributable profits of subsidiaries were 
paid as dividends.

The impact on the franking account of the dividend recommended by the directors since year end, but not recognised as a liability at year end, 
will be a reduction in the franking account of $1,084,000 (2008: $1,043,000).

The ability to utilise the franking credits is dependent upon there being sufficient available profits to declare dividends.

94

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

34   Key management personnel disclosures

(a)  Directors

The following persons were directors of Collection House Limited during the financial year:

(i) 

Chairman - non-executive director

J.M. Pearce (Appointed Chairman 25 June 2009)

(ii) 

Executive directors

A.R.	Aveling	–	Managing	Director	and	Chief	Executive	Officer

(iii) 

Non-executive directors

Mr D Punches (Stepped down as Chairman and became Deputy Chairman 25 June 2009)

B. E. Adams (Lead independent director)

A.F. Coutts

D. B. Connelly

W. L. Hiller

W. W. Kagel

(b)  Key management personnel 

The following persons had authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the Group, directly or indirectly, 
during the financial year:

Name

Tony Aveling

Adrian Ralston

Matthew Thomas

Michael Watkins

Kylie Lynam

Position

Employer

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Collection House Limited

Chief Financial Officer

Chief Operating Officer

Collection House Limited

Collection House Limited

General Counsel and Company Secretary

Collection House Limited

General Manager - Human Resources

Collection House Limited

All of the above persons were also key management persons during the year ended 30 June 2008.

(c)  Key management personnel compensation 

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Long-term benefits

Termination benefits

Share-based payments

Detailed remuneration disclosures are provided in sections A-D of the remuneration report on pages 26 to 34.

Consolidated

30 June
2009

$

30 June
2008

$

2,657,360

2,689,986

222,816

206,414

-

-

-

-

328,552

291,427

3,208,728

3,187,827

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

95

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

34   Key management personnel disclosures (continued)

(d)  Equity instrument disclosures relating to key management personnel

(i) 

Options provided as remuneration

Details of options over ordinary shares in the company provided as remuneration to each director of Collection House Limited and each of 
the five specified executives of the Group are set out below.  When exercisable, each option is convertible into one ordinary share of Collection 
House Limited.  Further information on the options is set out in note 41.

(ii) 

Options provided as remuneration and shares issued on exercise of such options

Details of options provided as remuneration and shares issued on the exercise of such options, together with terms and conditions of the 
options, can be found in section D of the remuneration report .

(iii)  Option holdings

The numbers of options over ordinary shares in the company held during the financial year by each director of Collection House Limited and 
other key management personnel of the Group, including their personally related parties, are set out below.

2009
Name

Balance at 
start of the 
year

Granted as 

compensation Exercised Other changes

Balance at 
end of the 
year

Vested and 
exercisable

Unvested

Directors of Collection House Limited

A. Aveling

2,000,000

2,000,000

Other key management personnel  of the Group

250,000

200,000

200,000

125,000

250,000

200,000

225,000

150,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,000,000

400,000

3,600,000

500,000

400,000

425,000

275,000

50,000

40,000

40,000

25,000

450,000

360,000

385,000

250,000

M. Thomas

A. Ralston

M. Watkins

K. Lynam

2008
Name

Balance at 
start of the 
year

Granted as 

compensation Exercised Other changes

Directors of Collection House Limited

A. Aveling

2,000,000

Other key management personnel  of the Group

M. Thomas

A. Ralston

M. Watkins

K. Lynam

250,000

200,000

200,000

125,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

96

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

Balance at 
end of the 
year

2,000,000

250,000

200,000

200,000

125,000

Vested and 
exercisable

Unvested

-

-

-

-

-

2,000,000

250,000

200,000

200,000

125,000

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

34   Key management personnel disclosures (continued)

(d) 

 Equity instrument disclosures relating to key management personnel (continued)

(iv) 

Share holdings

The numbers of shares in the company held during the financial year by each director of Collection House Limited and other key management 
personnel of the Group, including their personally related parties, are set out below.  There were no shares issued under the terms of the 
Employee Share Plan during the reporting period as compensation.

2009
Name

Directors of Collection House Limited

Balance at the 
start of the year

Received during 
the year on the 
exercise of options

Other changes 
during the year

Balance at the end 
of the year

Ordinary shares

John Pearce

Dennis Punches

Tony Aveling

Barrie Adams

Tony Coutts

Barry Connelly

Bill Hiller

Bill Kagel

Other key management personnel of the Group

Ordinary shares

M. Thomas

A. Ralston

M. Watkins

K. Lynam

2008
Name

Directors of Collection House Limited

Ordinary shares

John Pearce

Dennis Punches

Tony Aveling

Barrie Adams

Tony Coutts

Barry Connelly

Bill Hiller

Bill Kagel

Other key management personnel of the Group

Ordinary shares

M. Thomas

A. Ralston

M. Watkins

K. Lynam

B. Savage (Consultant)

11,816,130

14,150,101

226,400

-

4,164,600

20,000

43,000

551,269

102,000

-

25,000

11,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(400,000)

3,707,283

223,000

-

300,000

57,143

50,000

400,000

-

-

-

-

11,416,130

17,857,384

449,400

-

4,464,600

77,143

93,000

951,269

102,000

-

25,000

11,000

Balance at the 
start of the year

Received during 
the year on the 
exercise of options

Other changes 
during the year

Balance at the end 
of the year

11,738,200

14,098,835

100,000

-

4,164,600

20,000

20,000

500,000

2,000

-

25,000

11,000

62,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

77,930

51,266

126,400

-

-

-

23,000

51,269

100,000

-

-

-

(34,150)

11,816,130

14,150,101

226,400

-

4,164,600

20,000

43,000

551,269

102,000

-

25,000

11,000

27,850

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

97

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

34   Key management personnel disclosures (continued)

(e)  Loans to key management personnel

Details of loans made to directors of Collection House Limited and other key management personnel of the Group, including their personally 
related parties, are set out below.

(i) 

Aggregates for key management personnel

Group

2009

2008

Balance at the 
start of the year

Interest paid and 
payable for the 
year

Interest not 
charged

Balance at the end 
of the year

Number in Group 
at the end of the 
year

$

-

-

$

-

-

$

-

-

$

-

-

-

-

(ii) 

Individuals with loans above $100,000 during the financial year

No individual’s aggregate loan balance exceeded $100,000 at any time during the financial year.

In 2008, there were no loans to individuals that exceeded $100,000 at any time. 

(f)  Other transactions with key management personnel

No  payments  were  made  to  directors  or  other  key  management  personnel  other  than  as  appropriate  payments  for  performance  of  their 
duties as directors.

98

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

35   Remuneration of auditors

During the year the following fees were paid or payable for services provided by the auditor of the parent entity, its related practices and 
non-related audit firms:

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$

137,000

82,050

219,050

30 June
2008

$

145,000

79,000

224,000

30 June
2009

$

137,000

82,050

219,050

30 June
2008

$

145,000

79,000

224,000

Audit services

Audit and review of financial reports

Audit-related services

36   Contingencies

(a)  Contingent liabilities

The parent entity and Group had contingent liabilities at 30 June 2009 in respect of:

Claims

All previous claims have now been settled and provisions for these claims have been utilised.

Guarantees

(a)   Bank guarantees (secured) exist in respect of satisfactory contract performance in the normal course of business for the Group amounting 
to $1,449,478 (2008: $1,460,913) which includes a bank guarantee for the fitout of the new Head Office premisies at Green Square North 
Tower of $1,002,218 (2008: $993,652).

(b)   On  29  October  2002  the  company  and  certain  of  its  subsidiaries  entered  into  an  Interlocking  Debt  and  Interest  Guarantee  which  is 

supported by a Fixed and Floating charge over all of the assets and uncalled capital of those entities.

These guarantees may give rise to liabilities in the company if the associates do not meet their obligations under the terms of the contracts 
subject to the guarantees.

No material losses are anticipated in respect of any of the above contingent liabilities.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

99

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

37   Commitments

(a)  Capital commitments

Capital expenditure contracted for at the reporting date but not recognised as liabilities is as follows: 

Property, plant and equipment

Payable:

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than five years

Later than five years

Other financial assets at fair value through the Profit or Loss

Payable:

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than five years

Later than five years

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

-

-

-

-

3,416

-

-

3,416

-

-

-

-

3,416

-

-

3,416

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

29,250

31,200

-

-

-

-

29,250

31,200

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Consolidated

Company

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

2009

$’000

2008

$’000

Commitments  for  minimum  lease  payments  in  relation  to  non-cancellable 
operating leases are payable as follows:

Within one year

Later than one year but not later than five years

Later than five years

Commitments not recognised in the financial statements

7,969

9,002

4,149

21,120

21,120

3,449

3,930

-

7,379

7,379

5,985

8,969

4,149

19,103

19,103

3,271

3,918

-

7,189

7,189

100

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

38   Related party transactions

(a)  Parent entity 

The parent entity within the Group is Collection House Limited.  The ultimate parent entity is Collection House Limited.

(b)  Subsidiaries

Interests in subsidiaries are set out in note 39.

(c)  Key management personnel

Disclosure relating to key management personnel are set out in note 34.

(d) 

 Other transactions with key management personnel or entities related to them

No  other  transactions  were  made  to  key  management  personnel  or  entities  related  to  them  other  than  as  appropriate  payments  for 
performance of their duties.

(e)  Transactions with related parties

The classes of non director-related parties are:

> wholly owned controlled entities;

> partly owned controlled entities; and

> directors of related parties and their director-related entities.

Transactions

Transaction between non director related parties are on normal commercial terms and conditions no more favourable than those available 
to other parties unless otherwise stated.

The Company provided collection services to and received from collection services from Collection House (NZ) Limited, Lion Finance Pty Ltd 
and Lion Finance Limited.

The Company provided administrative services to all operating subsidiaries.

A wholly owned controlled entity Jones King Lawyers Pty Ltd (formerly Collection House Legal Services Pty Ltd), provided legal services to 
the Company and other wholly owned controlled entities.

A wholly owned entity, Australian Business Research Pty Ltd provided credit reporting services to the Company.

Loans were advanced by Collection House Limited to and were received from wholly owned controlled entities.

Loans were advanced by Collection House Limited to partly controlled entities.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

101

 
 
 
nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

38   Related party transactions (continued)

(e)  Transactions with related parties (continued)

Other transactions

Revenue from sale of services to:

     Wholly-owned controlled entities (note 30(c))

16,800,111

22,947,232

Company

30 June
2009
$

30 June
2008
$

Provision of legal services to:

     Controlling Entity

     Wholly owned controlled entities

Provision of credit reporting services to:

     Wholly owned controlled entities

Loan advances to:

     Wholly owned controlled entities

     Partly owned controlled entities

Loan advances from:

     Wholly owned controlled entities

     Partly owned controlled entities 

Dividends receivable from:

     Wholly owned controlled entities

Current receivables from non-director related entities

     Wholly owned controlled entities (loans)

Non-current receivables from non-director related entities

     Wholly owned controlled entities (loans)

     Provision for impairment (loans)

     Wholly owned controlled entities (dividends)

Current payables from non-director related entities

     Wholly owned controlled entities

Non current-payables from non-director related entities

     Wholly owned controlled entities (loans)

     Partly owned controlled entities (loans)

Details of equity interest held in classes of related parties are set out in note 39.

-

-

4,391,592

3,832,502

-

60,277

20,863,747

43,775,282

-

1,560,775

4,276,910

19,537,876

-

420,708

23,421,970

25,164,453

20,696,210

9,687,656

111,991,216

110,823,290

(1,018,434)

(1,018,434)

23,421,970

25,164,453

9,432,674

9,420,807

20,987,226

18,472,890

-

157,854

102

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

39   Subsidiaries

The  consolidated  financial  statements  incorporate  the  assets,  liabilities  and  results  of  the  following  subsidiaries  in  accordance  with  the 
accounting policy described in note 1(b):

Name of entity

Collection House Limited – incorporated in Australia 
Class of shares: Ordinary

Controlled entities  incorporated in Australia

ABR Publications Pty Ltd (3)

ACN 007 279 129 Pty Ltd (formerly Countrywide Mercantile Credit Services Pty Ltd)(4)

ACN 010 920 411 Pty Ltd (formerly Australian Business Research Pty Ltd) 

ACN 073 212 772 Pty Ltd (formerly National Revenue Corporation  Pty Ltd) (3)

ACN 096 967 485 Pty Ltd (formerly known as Rapid Ratings Pty Ltd) (a wholly owned subsidiary of Collection 
House Business Diagnostics Pty Ltd) (1)(3)*

ACN  079 105 025 Pty Ltd (formerly National Tenancy Database Pty Ltd) (3)

Australian Corporate Reporting Pty Ltd (3)

Collection	House	ALR	Pty	Ltd	(deregistered	in	2007/2008	and	reinstated	in	2008/2009)	(1)

Collection House Business Diagnostics Pty Ltd (CHBD) (1)(2)(3)

Collective Learning and Development Pty Ltd 

Jones King Lawyers Pty Ltd 

Lion Finance Pty Ltd

Midstate Credit Management Services Pty Ltd (4)

Controlled entities  incorporated in New Zealand

Collection House (NZ) Limited

Lion Finance Limited

1071066 Limited (formerly abr.nz Limited) 

The	following	Australian	companies	were	voluntarily	deregistered	in	2008/09	financial	year:

ACN 100 115 571 Pty Ltd (formerly Insurance Claims Solutions Pty Ltd) (1)

The	following	New	Zealand	companies	were	voluntarily	deregistered	in	2008/09	financial	year:

ACN 096 967 485 Pty Ltd (formerly Rapid Ratings Pty Ltd (registered in NZ as an overseas company) (a wholly 
owned subsidiary of Collection House Business Diagnostics Pty Ltd) (1)*

1189419 Limited (formerly National Tenancy Database Limited) 

Insurance Claims Solutions Limited (1)

1594421 Limited (formerly Rapid Ratings (NZ) Limited)  wholly owned by ACN 096 967 485 Pty Ltd (formerly 
Rapid Ratings Pty Ltd (registered in NZ as an overseas company) (a wholly owned subsidiary of Collection 
House Business Diagnostics Pty Ltd) (1)*

The	 following	 Collection	 House	 Limited	 controlled	 entities’	 business	 assets	 were	 sold	 in	 2008/09	 financial	
year.  Refer to note 11 for details in relation to discontinued operations:

Equity holding
of ordinary shares

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

84

100

100

100

84

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

84

100

100

84

Colpro Pty Ltd

100

100

(1) These controlled entities have not traded during the financial year.

(2)  In November 2008, Collection House Business Diagnostics Pty Ltd became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Group.  It remains the sole 

shareholder of the subsidiaries marked with the asterisk above.

(3) These controlled entities were voluntarily deregistered on 1 July 2009.

(4)  The company further streamlined its business activities by the merger of two of its country Victoria subsidiaries Countrywide Mercantile 
Credit  Services  Pty  Ltd  and  Midstate  Credit  Management  Services  Pty  Ltd  into  one  operating  business  unit.    The  merged  entity  will 
commence trading as Midstate Credit Management Services Pty Ltd from 1 May 2009.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

103

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

40   Earnings per share

(a)  Basic earnings per share

Profit	/	(loss)	from	continuing	operations	attributable	to	the	ordinary	equity	holders	of	the	company

Profit	/	(loss)	from	discontinued	operation

Total basic earnings per share attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the company

(b)     Reconciliations of earnings used in calculating earnings per share

Basic earnings per share

Profit from continuing operations

   from continuing operations

			(Profit)	/	Loss	from	continuing	operations	attributable	to	Minority	Interests

   from discontinued operation

(c)     Weighted average number of shares used as the denominator

Weighted average number of ordinary shares used as the denominator in calculating basic earnings  
per share

Consolidated

30 June
2009
Cents

7.9

0.2

8.1

30 June
2008
Cents

4.0

8.7

12.7

Consolidated

30 June
2009
$’000

30 June
2008
$’000

7,700

-

154

7,854

3,689

(1)

8,628

12,316

Consolidated

30 June
2009
Number

30 June
2008
Number

97,321,881

97,321,881

104

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

41   Share-based payments

(a)  Share options for MD/CEO 

In	 February	 2007,	 the	 Shareholders	 approved	 the	 issue	 of	 2,000,000	 share	 options	 in	 favour	 of	 the	 MD/CEO	 as	 part	 of	 his	 Employment	
Agreement.  The full terms of the options are contained in the Notice of General Meeting announced to shareholders on 12 January 2007.  A 
summary	of	these	options	is	identified	below	as	MD/CEO	1.	

In	October	2008,	the	Shareholders	approved	the	issue	of	a	further	2,000,000	share	options	in	favour	of	the	MD/CEO	as	part	of	his	varied	
employment agreement.  The full terms of the options are contained in the Notice of General Meeting announced to shareholders on 19 
September	2008.		A	summary	of	these	options	is	identified	below	as	MD/CEO	2.

Exercise price

MD/CEO 1 options

$1.0327

Earliest possible vesting date

28 February 2009

MD/CEO 2 options

$0.4927

25 June 2011

Performance hurdles

Tranche

# of options

Qualifying  
Price

Tranche

# of options

Qualifying 
Price

1

2

3

4

5

400,000

400,000

400,000

400,000

400,000

0.00

1.25

1.50

1.75

2.00

1

2

3

4

5

400,000

400,000

400,000

400,000

400,000

0.60

0.70

0.80

0.90

1.00

Expiry date

25 June 2013

The options will expire on: 
(a)  the  business  day  after  the  expiration  of  three 
(3) months, or any longer period determined by 
the	 Company	 after	 the	 MD/CEO	 ceases	 to	 be	
employed by the Company or a subsidiary of the 
Company; 

(b)		the	 MD/CEO	 ceasing	 to	 be	 employed	 by	 the	
Company or a subsidiary of the Company due to 
fraud or dishonesty; 
(c)  or 28 February 2011.

Fair value of options granted

The assessed fair value at grant date of all options granted is set out below.  The fair value at grant date is independently determined using 
a	Monte	Carlo	option	pricing	model	in	relation	to	MD/CEO	1	options	and	a	combination	of	Bermudan	and	Barrier	-	style	option	pricing	model	
in	relation	to	MD/CEO	2	options	that	takes	into	account	the	exercise	price,	the	term	of	the	option,	the	impact	of	dilution,	the	share	price	at	
grant date and expected price volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield and the risk free interest rate for the term of the 
respective options.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

105

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

41   Share-based payments (continued)

(a)  Share options for MD/CEO (continued)

The model inputs and resulting valuations for options granted included:

MD/CEO 1 options

MD/CEO 2 options

Exercise conditions

The options will vest on the later of:
(a) 28 February 2009; and
(b)  in  respect  of  400,  000  options,  the  options  will 
be exercisable with no qualifying price applying; 
and

(c)  in  respect  of  the  remaining  1,600,000  options, 
the options will only be exercisable, pro-rata, if 
and  when  the  company’s  share  price  reaches 
certain  qualifying  prices  between  $1.25  and 
$2.00.

The options will vest on the later of:

			•		25	June	2011;	and
			•		for	each	tranche	of	options,	as	follows:
      A.  In respect of the first tranche options, the date that 
the weighted average closing price shares over a 10 
business  day  period  (Qualifying  Price)  for  the  first 
tranche options (namely $0.60) is satisfied;

     B.  In  respect  of  the  second  tranche  options,  the 
Qualifying  Price  for  the  second  tranche  options 
(namely $0.70) is satisfied;

     C.  In respect of the third tranche options, the Qualifying 
Price for the second tranche options (namely $0.80) 
is satisfied;

     D.  In respect of the forth tranche options, the Qualifying 
Price for the second tranche options (namely $0.90) 
is satisfied; and

     E.  In respect of the fifth tranche options, the Qualifying 
Price for the second tranche options (namely $1.00) 
is satisfied.

Exercise price

Grant date

Expiry date

$1.0327 per option

22 February 2007

0.4927 per option

31 October 2008

25 June 2013

The options will expire on:
(a)  the  business  day  after  the  expiration  of  three 
(3) months, or any longer period determined by 
the	 Company	 after	 the	 MD/CEO	 ceases	 to	 be	
employed by the Company or a subsidiary of the 
Company; or

(b)		the	 MD/CEO	 ceasing	 to	 be	 employed	 by	 the	
Company  or  a  subsidiary  of  the  Company  due 
to fraud or dishonesty; 

(c)  or 28 February 2011.

Share price at grant date

Expected price volatility

Expected dividend yield

Risk free interest rate

$0.91

43.8%

3.29%

5.99%

$0.48

55.6%

9%

6.64%

The expected price volatility is usually based on the historic volatility (based on the remaining life of the options), adjusted for any expected 
changes to future volatility due to publicly available information.

The resulting valuation per option is as follows:

Tranche

MD/CEO 1 options

MD/CEO 2 options

1

2

3

4

5

$0.26881

$0.23054

$0.19578

$0.16085

$0.12945

$0.153

$0.152

$0.151

$0.148

$0.146

106

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

41   Share-based payments (continued)

(b)  Executive Share Option Plan 

Participation	in	the	Executive	Share	option	Plan	(ESOP)	is	determined	by	the	MD/CEO,	through	Board	approval.		The	MD/CEO	prepares	a	list	
of executives and their proposed level of participation in the ESOP.  The ESOP was approved by the Board and 1,250,000 options were issued 
to eligible senior employees on 15 June 2007.  The options were submitted for shareholder ratification and approval at the Company’s Annual 
General Meeting in October 2007.  A summary of these options is identified below as EXEC1.   

A further 1,437,500 options were issued to a number of eligible senior employees pursuant to the ESOP on 18 July 2008.    A summary of 
these options is identified below as EXEC2.  

Future options may be issued pursuant to the ESOP with not only individual performance being considered, but also company performance 
hurdles to be achieved before options may be exercised.

Exercise price

Earliest possible vesting date

Performance hurdles

EXEC1 options

$1.0327

28 February 2009

EXEC2 options

$0.4927

25 June 2011

Tranche

# of options

Qualifying  
Price

Tranche

# of options

Qualifying 
Price

Expiry date

1

2

3

4

5

25 June 2013

287,500

287,500

287,500

287,500

287,500

0.60

0.70

0.80

0.90

1.00

1

2

3

4

5

250,000

250,000

250,000

250,000

250,000

0.00

1.25

1.50

1.75

2.00

the options will expire on:
(a)  the business day after the expiration of three (3) 
months, or any longer period determined by the 
Company  after  the  eligible  employees  cease  to 
be employed by the Company or a subsidiary of 
the Company;

(b)  the eligible employee ceasing to be employed by 
the Company or a subsidiary of the Company due 
to fraud or dishonesty; or

(c)  28 February 2011.

Fair value of options granted

The assessed fair value at grant date of all options granted is set out below. The fair value at grant date is independently determined using 
a Monte Carlo option pricing model in relation to EXEC 1 options and a combination of Bermudan and Barrier - style option pricing model in 
relation to EXEC 2 options that takes into account the exercise price, the term of the option, the impact of dilution, the share price at grant date 
and expected price volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield and the risk free interest rate for the term of the option.

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

107

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

41   Share-based payments (continued)

(b)  Executive Share Option Plan (continued)

The model inputs and resulting valuations for options granted included:

EXEC 1 options

EXEC2 options

The options will vest on the later of:
			•		Namely	25	June	2011;	and
			•		for	each	tranche	of	options,	as	follows:
      A.  In  respect  of  the  first  tranche  options, 
the  date  that  the  weighted  average  closing 
price  shares  over  a  10  business  day  period 
(Qualifying Price) for the first tranche options 
(namely $0.60) is satisfied;

      B.  In  respect  of  the  second  tranche  options, 
the  Qualifying  Price  for  the  second  tranche 
options (namely $0.70) is satisfied;

      C.  In  respect  of  the  third  tranche  options, 
the  Qualifying  Price  for  the  second  tranche 
options (namely $0.80) is satisfied;

      D.  In  respect  of  the  forth  tranche  options, 
the  Qualifying  Price  for  the  second  tranche 
options (namely $0.90) is satisfied; and 
      E.  in  respect  of  the  fifth  tranche  options, 
the  Qualifying  Price  for  the  second  tranche 
options (namely $1.00) is satisfied.

0.4927 per option

18 July 2008

25 June 2013

Exercise conditions

The options will vest on the later of:
(a) 28 February 2009; and
(b)  in respect of 250, 000 options, the options will be 
exercisable,  pro  rata  to  each  eligible  employee 
respectively,  with  no  qualifying  price  applying; 
and

(c)  in respect of the remaining 1,000,000 options, the 
options will only be exercisable, pro-rata, if and 
when the company’s share price reaches certain 
qualifying prices between $1.25 and $2.00.

Exercise price

Grant date

Expiry date

$1.0327 per option

15 June 2007

The options will expire on:
(a)  the business day after the expiration of three (3) 
months, or any longer period determined by the 
Company  after  the  eligible  employee  ceases  to 
be employed by the Company or a subsidiary of 
the Company; or

(b)  the eligible employee ceasing to be employed by 
the Company or a subsidiary of the Company due 
to fraud or dishonesty; or

(c)  28 February 2011

Share price at grant date

Expected price volatility 

Expected dividend yield

Risk free interest rate

$0.89

48.5%

2.91%

6.14%

$0.48

55.6%

9%

6.64%

108

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

41   Share-based payments (continued)

(b)  Executive Share Option Plan (continued)

The expected price volatility is usually based on the historic volatility (based on the remaining life of the options), adjusted for any expected 
changes to future volatility due to publicly available information.  The resulting valuation per option is as follows:

Tranche

Exec 1 options

Exec 2 options

1

2

3

4

5

$0.28614

$0.24279

$0.20739

$0.17240

$0.14097

$0.153

$0.152

$0.151

$0.148

$0.146

Balance at 
start of the 
year

Granted 
during the 
year

Exercised 
during the 
year

Expired during 
the year

Balance at 
end of the 
year

Vested and 
exercisable 
at end of the 
year

Grant Date

Expiry date Exercise price

Number

Number

Number

Number

Number

Number

Consolidated and company - 2009

31 October 2008

18 July  2008

12 March 2007

15 June 2007

As stated 
above 

As stated 
above

As stated 
above

As stated 
above

$0.49

$0.49

2,000,000

1,437,500

-

2,000,000

125,000

1,312,500

-

-

$1.03

2,000,000

$1.03

1,250,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,000,000

400,000

150,000

1,100,000

250,000

275,000

6,412,500

650,000

Total

3,250,000

3,437,500

Balance at 
start of the 
year

Granted 
during the 
year

Exercised 
during the 
year

Expired during 
the year

Balance at 
end of the 
year

Vested and 
exercisable 
at end of the 
year

Grant Date

Expiry date Exercise price

Number

Number

Number

Number

Number

Number

Consolidated and company - 2008

12 March 2007

15 June 2007

As stated 
above

As stated 
above

$1.03

2,000,000

$1.03

1,250,000

Total

3,250,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,000,000

1,250,000

3,250,000

-

-

-

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

109

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

41   Share-based payments (continued)

(c)  Employee share scheme

An employee of the Company or its subsidiaries with at least three months’ service is eligible to participate in the employee share plan in 
accordance with terms and conditions disclosed in the Company’s Prospectus issued in 2000. 

The plan provides for eligible employees to acquire ordinary shares in the Company at a price determined by the directors.  

Historically, the market price was determined by reference to the average volume weighted share price of the Company’s shares for the five 
business days prior to and including 30 June.

On application, employees must pay application monies of at least 10% of the value of the share offer. The Company may, at its discretion, lend 
the employee such monies as is required to complete the share purchase.  Interest is charged monthly on outstanding loan balances at a rate 
determined by the directors, which is currently 6% per annum.  Repayment of the loan balance is required within two years or the employee’s 
right to the shares will be forfeited with the current net market price less the outstanding loan balance refunded to the employee.

The shares vest immediately upon acquisition but are not able to be traded until the later of ninety days from the acquisition date or the date 
on which the outstanding loan balance has been fully repaid. 

No shares were issued under this plan in the year ended 30 June 2009 (2008: nil shares issued).

The amount recognised in the financial statements of the consolidated entity and the Company in relation to employee shares issued in prior 
years were:  

Employee loans

Consolidated

Company

30 June
2009

$’000

0

0

30 June
2008

$’000

9

9

30 June
2009

$’000

0

0

30 June
2008

$’000

9

9

42   Events occurring after the reporting period

Dividend

A fully franked final dividend of 2.6 cents, totalling $2.5 million, has been declared, payable on 27th November, 2009. No provision has been 
raised in these accounts.

A number of non-trading entities within the group were voluntarily deregistered on 1 July 2009.  Refer to note 39.

110

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

nOtEs tO tHE fInancIal statEmEnts
for the year ended 30 June 2009

43  

 Reconciliation of profit after income tax to net cash inflow 
from operating activities

Consolidated

Company

Profit for the year

Depreciation, amortisation and impairment

Fair value losses on other financial assets

Non-cash employee benefits expense - share-based payments

Restructuring expense

Management service fee

Stamp duty related expenses written back

Dividend and interest income

Net (gain) loss on sale of discontinued operations

Provision for doubtful debts

Assets written off

Other non-cash expenses

Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from purchase of 
controlled entity and sale of discontinued operation

(Increase)/decrease	in	trade	debtors	and	bills	of	exchange

(Increase)/decrease	in	sundry	debtors

(Increase)/decrease	in	current	tax	receivables

(Increase)/decrease	in	deferred	tax	assets

(Increase)/decrease	in	other	assets

Increase/(decrease)	in	trade	creditors

Increase/(decrease)	in	sundry	creditors	and	accruals

Increase/(decrease)	in	current	tax	liability

Increase/(decrease)	in	deferred	tax	liabilities

Increase/(decrease)	in	deferred	expenditure

Increase/(decrease)	in	non-current	payables

Increase/(decrease)	in	other	provisions

Other

Net cash inflow (outflow) from operating activities

30 June
2009

$’000

7,854

2,295

30,265

403

655

-

(1,344)

-

-

(127)

1,184

(674)

651

(883)

2,312

-

(281)

820

(1,395)

1,595

(2,709)

-

-

-

(3)

40,618

30 June
2008

$’000

12,388

2,307

29,730

347

1,016

-

-

-

(12,974)

-

-

(796)

6,418

(782)

(143)

-

416

(431)

(1,858)

-

2,661

(2)

-

37

(71)

38,263

30 June
2009

$’000

11,746

1,629

-

403

655

(1,264)

(165)

30 June
2008

$’000

11,011

5,331

-

347

1,016

3,921

-

(23,422)

(23,847)

-

-

1,160

(221)

322

(767)

2,974

581

4,735

1,247

(828)

-

-

-

3,227

39

(55)

1,996

19

-

-

(114)

1,745

(322)

(1,628)

542

254

510

518

-

-

-

-

85

(71)

(683)

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

111

 
DIREctORs' DEclaRatIOn
for the year ended 30 June 2009

In the directors’ opinion:

(a)  the financial statements and notes set out on pages 38 to 111 are in accordance with the 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 company’s and consolidated entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2009 and of their performance 

for the financial year ended on that date; and

(b)  there are reasonable grounds to believe that  the company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable, and

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.

Tony Aveling

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Brisbane

25 August 2009   

112

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDIT REPORT TO THE MEMBERS  
OF COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED 

Report on the Financial Report 
We have audited the accompanying financial report of Collection House Limited  
(the company), which comprises the balance sheets as at 30 June 2009, and the income statements, cash 
flow statements and statement of changes in equity for the year ended on that date, a summary of 
significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes and the directors’ declaration of 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 (IFRS) ensures that the financial report, comprising the consolidated financial 
statements and notes, complies with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). 

Auditor’s Responsibility 
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our 
audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we 
comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit 
to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement. 

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in 
the financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, 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.  

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for 
our audit opinion. 

Independence 

In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations 
Act 2001. 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Auditor’s Opinion 

In our opinion: 

a) 

the financial report of Collection House Limited is in accordance with the Corporations Act 
2001, including: 

i. 

ii. 

giving a true and fair view of the company’s and consolidated entity’s financial 
position as at 30 June 2009 and of their performance for the year ended on that date; 
and 
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 (Sections A to E) included in 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. 

Auditor’s Opinion 

In our opinion the Remuneration Report (Sections A to E) of Collection House 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 auditor’s report relates to the financial report and remuneration disclosures of Collection House 
Limited (the company) for the year ended 30 June 2009 included on Collection House Limited’s web 
site.  The company’s directors are responsible for the integrity of the Collection House Limited web 
site.  We have not been engaged to report on the integrity of this web site.  The auditor’s report refers 
only to the statements and remuneration disclosures named above.  It does not provide an opinion on 
any other information which may have been hyperlinked to/from these statements or the remuneration 
disclosures.  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 disclosures to confirm the information included in the audited financial report and 
remuneration disclosures presented on this web site. 

HACKETTS DFK 

Liam Murphy 
Partner 
Brisbane 25 August 2009 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
sHaREHOlDER InfORmatIOn

The shareholder information set out below was applicable as at 10 August 2009.

A.  Distribution of equity securities

Analysis of numbers of equity security holders by size of holding:

1-1000

1,001-5000

5,001-10,000

10,001-100,000

100,001 and over

Total

There were 552 holders of less than a marketable parcel of ordinary shares.

B.  Equity security holders

Twenty largest quoted equity security holders

The names of the twenty largest holders of quoted equity securities are listed below:

Name 

Mr Dennis George Punches

Trans Tasman Collections Investments Pty Ltd

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited

George Laurens (QLD) Pty Ltd (Pearce Family Account)

National Nominees Limited

Ankla Pty Ltd

Mr	John	Marshall	Pearce	and	Mrs	Sandra	Anne	Pearce	(Collection	House	S/Fund	Account)

Mr	Anthony	Francis	Coutts	and	Mrs	Jennifer	Elsie	Coutts	(Coutts	S/Fund	A/C)

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited

HSBC	Custody	Nominees	(Australia)	Limited	–	GSCO	ECA

Anthony	Coutts	and	Jennifer	Coutts	(The	Coutts	Family	A/C)

Mr William Walter Kagel 

Mr	Philip	Julian	Eriksen	and	Mr	Julian	Hans	Eriksen	(Ace	A/C)

Mr	Lev	Mizikovsky	and	Mrs	Emily	Dorothy	Mizikovsky	(Superfun	Superfund	A/C)

Sunstar Australia Pty Ltd

Jasscove Pty Ltd (Walker Family Account)

TBIC	Pty	Ltd	(Crommelin	Family	Super	A/C)

Mooloolaba	Consulting	Pty	Ltd	(Super	Fund	A/C)

Mr Lev Mizikovsky

Mr Raymond Larkin

Total

Class of equity security
Ordinary shares

Holders

549

1,076

321

373

56

Shares

355,884

2,926,011

2,567,630

10,989,578

80,482,778

2375

97,321,881

Units

17,806,118

9,997,798

8,998,111

7,237,925

7,131,383

4,195,020

4,085,905

2,707,000

2,208,377

1,992,460

1,727,000

951,269

746,183

684,363

657,895

600,000

500,000

444,400

438,182

400,000

% of issued 
capital

18.30

10.27

9.25

7.44

7.33

4.31

4.20

2.78

2.27

2.05

1.77

0.98

0.77

0.70

0.68

0.62

0.51

0.46

0.45

0.41

73,509,389

75.53

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

115

sHaREHOlDER InfORmatIOn

Unquoted equity securities

The	following	ordinary	share	options	have	been	issued	to	the	MD/CEO,	as	part	of	his	employment	agreement	and	certain	of	the	company’s	
executives.  Details of these options are set out at note 41 of the financial statements.  

Grant date

MD/CEO	OPTIONS

31 October 2008

12 March 2007

EXECUTIVE OPTIONS*

18 July 2008

15 June 2007

*No executive holds 20% or more of these securities.

Restricted securities

Balance at 1 
July 2008

Granted 
during the 
year

Exercised 
during the 
year

Expired during 
the year

Balance at 
the end of the 
year

2,000,000

1,437,500

2,000,000

1,250,000

2,000,000

2,000,000

125,000

150,000

1,312,500

1,100,000

All issued shares in Collection House Limited are quoted on the ASX and there are no shares subject to escrow or other regulated restrictions 
other than as follows:

Voluntary restrictions on securities

Employees who participate in the Collection House Employee Share Plan are required to enter into voluntary escrow arrangements with the 
Company, undertaking not to dispose of any of these shares for 12 months from the date of issue of the relevant shares.    Details of the 
Employee Share Plan are set out in note 41 of the financial statements.

Under the Collection House Employee Share Plan and Collection House Executive Share Option Plan, employees may be entitled to acquire 
shares under an employee loan facility.  Employee shares that are subject to an employee loan at the time that the voluntary escrow period 
expires remain restricted until the relevant employee loan is discharged.  As at 10 August 2009, no shares are restricted on this basis.  Shares 
restricted under voluntary arrangements rank pari passu with all fully paid ordinary shares in all other respects.  

C.  Substantial holders

Substantial shareholders of ordinary shares in the Company are set out below:

Holder

1. Dennis George Punches (combined shareholdings)

Units

17,857,384

2.		John	Marshall	Pearce	and	Sandra	Anne	Pearce/George	Laurens	(Qld)	Pty	Ltd	(combined	shareholdings)

11,347,830

3. Mackenzie Financial Corporation

4. Trans Tasman Collections Investments Pty Limited

5. Mr Lev Mizikovsky, Ankla Pty Ltd and Sunstar Australia Pty Ltd (combined shareholdings)

11,091,909

9,997,798

5,975,460

% of issued 
capital

18.35

11.66

11.40

10.27

6.14

D.  Voting rights

The voting rights attaching to each class of equity securities are set out below:

Ordinary shares

On a show of hands, every member present at a meeting in person or by proxy shall have one vote and upon a poll each share shall have 
one vote.

Options

No voting rights.

116

ANNUAL REPORT 2009

2  overview

7   Business 

Performance

8   Who We Are 9    our  

responsibilities

Overview

Performance Highlights ......................... 2

Chairman’s Statement ........................... 3

Chief Executive’s Review ........................ 4

Notice of 
ANNuAl GeNerAl 
MeetiNG

The Annual General Meeting of Collection House Limited will be held on 30 October 2009 
at 11.00am at the Emporium Hotel, 1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, QLD.

The  business  of the meeting is outlined in the formal Notice and Proxy Form  that  are 
enclosed with this report.

CORPORATE DIRECTORY

Head Office

Collection House Limited 
ABN 74 010 230 716 

Level 7 
515 St Paul’s Terrace  
Fortitude Valley, Qld  4006

GPO Box 2247, Fortitude Valley BC 
Qld  4006

Telephone:  +61 7 3292 1000 
Facsimile:  +61 7 3832 0222 
Website: 

 www.collectionhouse.com.au

Registered Office

Collection House Limited

c/- Hacketts DFK 
Level 3 
549 Queen Street 
Brisbane, Qld  4000

Locations

Australia

Brisbane 
Ballarat 
Sydney 
Bendigo 
Melbourne 
Newcastle 
Adelaide 
Shepparton 
Perth

New Zealand

Auckland (2)

Stock Exchange Listings

Collection House Limited shares are listed on the Australian Stock 
Exchange.  The home exchange is Brisbane.

ASX Code: CLH

Company Secretary

Michael Watkins

Phone:  
Facsimile:  +61 3414 7525

+61 7 3100 1229 

Auditors

Hacketts DFK

Level 3 
549 Queen Street 
Brisbane, Qld  4000

Share Registry

Computershare Investor Services Pty Limited

GPO Box 242 
Melbourne, VIC 3001 
AUSTRALIA

For general enquiries: 

Phone:  1300  552  270  for  calls  within  Australia  or  +61  3  237  2100 
outside Australia

Your  Proxy  form  may  be  faxed  to  Computershare  on  1800  783  447 
(within Australia) or +61 3 9473 2555 (outside Australia)

To  access  your  account  or  change  your  details,  please  visit  the 
Computershare website at  www.computershare.com

COLLECTION HOUSE LIMITED

117

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