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Commonwealth Bank of Australia

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FY2012 Annual Report · Commonwealth Bank of Australia
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Annual Report
2012

COMMONWEALTH BANK OF AUSTRALIA 
ACN 123 123 124  |  15 AUgUST 2012

Chairman‟s Statement 

Chief Executive Officer‟s Statement 

Highlights 

Group Performance Analysis 

Retail Banking Services 

Business and Private Banking 

Institutional Banking and Markets 

Wealth Management 

New Zealand 

Bankwest 

Other Divisions 

Investment Experience 

Risk Management 

Capital Management 

Description of Business Environment 

Sustainability 

Corporate Governance 

Directors‟ Report 

Five Year Financial Summary 

Financial Statements 

Income Statements 

Statements of Comprehensive Income 

Balance Sheets 

Statements of Changes in Equity 

Statements of Cash Flows 

Notes to the Financial Statements 

Directors‟ Declaration 

Independent Auditor‟s Report 

Shareholding Information 

International Representation 

Contact Us 

Corporate Directory 

Contents 

2 

4 

6 

10 

18 

20 

22 

24 

28 

32 

34 

36 

37 

41 

48 

51 

55 

62 

92 

94 

95 

96 

97 

98 

100 

102 

218 

219 

221 

225 

227 

228 

 
 
 
 
 
Chairman’s Statement 

Introduction 

Dividends and Capital 

The  2012  financial  year  has  been  another  challenging  one  for 
financial  institutions  in  general,  and  for  the  Group  in  particular. 
The macroeconomic environment has again been dominated by 
uncertainty  and  volatility  in  global  financial  markets.  Concerns 
around the slowing of the Chinese economy, uncertainty about 
the  pace  of  recovery  in  the  United  States,  and  the  ongoing 
challenges  facing  the  European  Union  have  all  continued  to 
weigh  heavily  on 
the 
fundamentals of the Australian economy appear sound, a lack of 
corporate and consumer confidence has dampened demand for 
credit and seen our customers move to strengthen their balance 
sheet as they remain cautious about the immediate outlook. 

the  Australian  economy.  While 

The  Group  has  responded  to  this  environment  by  maintaining 
conservative  business  settings,  which  includes  strong  capital, 
high levels of liquidity and robust provisioning. Retail deposit and 
wholesale funding costs remain elevated, but the Group remains 
well  funded,  which  has  enabled  us  to  continue  supporting  our 
customers, many  of  whom  are  finding  the  current  environment 
challenging. 

Operating and Financial Results 

The  Group  is  in  a  strong  financial  position  and  has  delivered 
another good result despite subdued underlying credit growth. 

Net  profit  after  tax  on  a  cash  basis  increased  4%  on  the  prior 
year  to  $7.1  billion.  The  Group  delivered  a  strong  Return  on 
Equity (ROE) performance of 18.6%, again on a cash basis. Key 
elements of the result were:  

 

Net  interest  income  increased  4%  to  $13,157  million, 
reflecting  5%  growth  in  average  interest  earning  assets 
partly  offset  by  a  three  basis  point  decline  in  net  interest 
margin; 

 

  Other  banking  income  decreased  2%  to  $3,927  million 
driven  by  lower  Markets  trading  income,  partly  offset  by 
higher  credit  card  interchange  income  and  Institutional 
lending fee growth; 
Funds  management  income  decreased  4%  to  $1,957 
million,  impacted  by  declining  equity  markets,  a  higher 
proportion  of  customer  funds  invested  into  lower  margin 
cash and fixed interest investments, and the continued run-
off of the CommInsure closed investment portfolios; 
Insurance income increased 12% to $960 million, driven by 
10%  inforce  premium  growth,  and  favourable  claims 
experience  in  the  New  Zealand  life  insurance  business, 
partly offset by unfavourable domestic claims experience; 

 

  Operating expenses increased 3% to $9,196 million, driven 
by  inflation-related  salary  increases,  property  transition 
costs related to the new Sydney CBD office premises and 
higher  compliance  costs.  This  was  partly  offset  by  the 
continued  focus  on  productivity  initiatives  to  improve 
customer experience and Group efficiency; and 
Loan  impairment  expense  decreased  15%  to  $1,089 
million, reflecting the gradual improvement in asset quality, 
with economic overlays maintained at existing levels. 

 

The Group‟s assets increased by $50 billion or 8% over the prior 
year, despite subdued underlying credit growth. This was largely 
driven by an increase in home lending, business and corporate 
lending balances and non-lending interest earning assets, as a 
to  maintain 
result  of  higher 
conservative business settings. 

liquid  asset  holdings  used 

The Group‟s funding requirements were mainly generated from 
deposits, growing by 9% to $379 million. Customer deposits now 
make up 62% of total funding. 

2 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

The Group‟s ability to deliver strong performance and to be one 
of  a  handful  of  global  banks  which  have  maintained  AA  credit 
ratings,  has  been  underpinned  by  our  decision  to  retain 
conservative  business  settings,  particularly  with  respect  to 
provisioning, liquidity, funding and capital. 

regulator, 

As  far  as  capital  is  concerned,  global  regulators,  including  our 
domestic 
the  Australian  Prudential  Regulation 
Authority (APRA), have driven significant reforms in response to 
the problems faced by many financial institutions as a result of 
the Global Financial Crisis.  

In  particular, 

While  the  Australian  banks  performed  relatively  well  over  that 
period, they have, nonetheless, been impacted by these global 
the  Basel  Committee  on  Banking 
reforms. 
Supervision  and  APRA  are  proposing  changes  which  are 
designed to increase the quality, consistency and transparency 
of  capital,  to  enhance  risk  coverage  frameworks,  and  reduce 
systemic  and  pro-cyclical  risk.  One  of  the  major  outcomes  of 
these reforms is that banks will be required to hold higher levels 
of capital.  

Given  the  environment  in  which  we  have  been  operating,  the 
Group has already adopted a more conservative and proactive 
approach to capital management, and is well placed to meet the 
new  Basel  III  capital  requirements.  The  Group  has  already 
increased  its  Common  Equity  Tier  1  ratio  (CET1)  on  an 
internationally  harmonised  basis  by  42%  since  June  2007.  In 
fact,  with  an  internationally  harmonised  CET1  of  9.8%  we  are 
already well above the average of our international peers. 

Going  forward  the  Board  has  approved  a  CET1  internationally 
harmonised target ratio of greater than 9%.  

In conjunction with the setting of target capital requirements, the 
Board has also reviewed the Group‟s dividend policy. As a result 
the Group will seek to: 

Pay cash dividends at strong and sustainable levels; 
Target a payout ratio of 70 to 80%; and  

 
 
  Maximise  the  use  of  its  franking  account  by  paying  fully 

franked dividends. 

Interim  dividends  will  be  increased  to  approximately  70%  of 
interim profit in future periods to ensure a more even distribution 
of dividends as between interim and final. Consideration will also 
be given in future periods to minimising the dilutive impact of the 
DRP through neutralisation initiatives. 

As far as the current year is concerned, a final dividend of $1.97 
per  share  was  declared,  an  increase  of  5%  on  the  prior  year. 
The total dividend for the year was $3.34 per share (up 4% on 
the prior year), taking the payout ratio for the year to 75%. 

Corporate Governance and Board Performance 

This  year  the  Group  used  an  external  firm  to  assist  with  the 
assessment  of  Board  performance  and  effectiveness.  Further 
details are included in the Corporate Governance section of this 
Annual  Report.  This  is  an  important  area  of  evaluation,  as  the 
proper  functioning  of  your  Board  effectively  challenging  yet 
supporting  the  management  team  is  one  of  its  most  important 
tasks alongside the Board fiduciary duties of governance. 

The Group also engaged an independent firm to discuss directly 
with  some  of  our  major  shareholders,  our  performance, 
communications  with  the  market  and  direction  of  our  strategy. 
They  presented  their  findings  directly  to  the  Board,  and  again 
there is further information in the Corporate Governance section 
of this Annual Report. 

 
Chairman’s Statement 

The  Group  also  surveyed  some  of  our  individual  shareholders 
and had one on one critical presentations from other senior fund 
managers  and  senior  sell-side  analysts.  This  open  and 
independent exposure of the Board to its stakeholder groups is 
essential  for  the  Board‟s  understanding  of  the  thoughts  of  the 
Bank‟s owners.  

Against  this  backdrop,  the  Group  will  continue  to  operate  in  a 
disciplined  and  prudent  manner,  with  the  focus  on  driving 
sustainable 
in  business  performance  and 
investing  in  our  long-term  strategic  priorities.  The  Group  is 
confident  that  our  customer  focused  strategy  positions  the 
business well for the long term. 

improvements 

There was only one addition to the Board during the year. On 1 
December 2011 Ian Narev took over from Ralph Norris as Chief 
Executive  Officer  and  replaced  Ralph  as  the  only  executive 
member of the Board.  

I  wrote  and  spoke  at  length  last  year  about  the  excellent 
contribution  of  Ralph  to  the  Group  over  his  six  year  tenure  as 
CEO.  The  fact  that  the  momentum  in  the  business  has 
continued since the announcement of Ian‟s appointment early in 
the  year  is  very  pleasing  and  is  a  great  tribute  to  the  skill  and 
professionalism of both Ralph and Ian.  

Two  of  our 
long  standing  non-executive  directors,  Colin 
Galbraith and Fergus Ryan will be retiring from the Board at the 
Group‟s Annual General Meeting. Both have been members of 
the Board for 12 years. They have made significant contributions 
to the Board and its committees over that period and I would like 
to  thank  them  for  their  commitment  and  hard  work  over  that 
period. Their wisdom, insights and considerable experience will 
be  missed  by  those  of  us  who  remain  and  by  senior  Group 
executives.  

Fergus Ryan, who has been Chairman of the Audit Committee 
since  2004,  relinquished that  role  during this  year,  passing the 
responsibilities  into  the  very  capable  hands  of  Brian  Long  who 
joined the Board in September 2010.  

I would like to thank all of my fellow directors for their hard work 
and support over the last year. 

Outlook  

Looking back on the 2012 year and on the “Outlook” section of 
last  year‟s  statement,  my  sense  is  that  not  a  great  deal  has 
changed.  This past year was characterised by an uncertain and 
volatile  global  economy, 
fragile  consumer  and  corporate 
confidence,  political  uncertainty  and  a  multi  speed  economy 
which is challenging for many of our customers.  

My  view  of  the  future  is,  therefore,  not  dissimilar  from  the  one 
expressed  last  year  –  that  is  that  we  are  unlikely  to  see 
significant  improvements  in  the  macro  environment  in  the 
coming  year.    While  the  US  economy  does  not  appear  to  be 
getting  any  worse  there  are  not  yet  signs  of  a  sustained 
recovery. 

As far as Europe is concerned, it is difficult to see the complex 
problems  which  face  the  European  Union  being  remedied 
quickly.    The  concern  about  the  damage  that  rigid  austerity 
programmes  might  inflict  and  the  political  tensions  that  may 
result is understandable. However, if there is sufficient patience 
and tolerance, an optimist could point to a satisfactory outcome 
but it will certainly not be soon.  

The  medium  term  outlook  for  the  Chinese  economy  seems 
positive,  but  inevitably  there  will  be  short  term  uncertainty  and 
volatility, which may well affect the pace of economic growth. 

While  optimistic  about  the  medium  to  long  term  outlook  for 
Australia, the global economy remains uncertain. It is difficult to 
see the catalyst for alleviating the uncertainty which will continue 
to  affect  consumer  and  corporate  confidence.  So,  in  the  near 
term, the Group expects current revenue trends to continue, and 
we will retain conservative business settings. 

We have an excellent management team in the Group and even 
in  a  challenging  world,  your  Board  is  confident  that  they  will 
succeed. 

Finally, I would like to thank our customers and shareholders for 
their continuing support for the Commonwealth Bank of Australia 
and of course all the staff of the Group on whom we depend for 
our success. 

David J Turner 

Chairman 

15 August 2012 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

3 

 
 
 
Chief Executive Officer’s Statement 

Our operating environment 

significant achievements, which include: 

This is my first opportunity to write to you all in an Annual Report 
as  Chief  Executive  of  the  Commonwealth  Bank  of  Australia.  I 
feel  privileged  to  do  so,  and  am  particularly  pleased  that  in  its 
centenary  year,  the  Group  continued  its  strong  momentum, 
notwithstanding the challenges of our operating environment. 

Nearly  four  years  after  the  collapse  of  Lehman  Brothers,  the 
global economy continues to feel the effects of a financial crisis; 
on-going  market  volatility  continues  to  fetter  economic  growth 
throughout the world. 

Despite  this  lower  growth  environment,  global  demand  for 
resources  has  remained  high.  So  the  fundamentals  of  the 
Australian  economy  have  remained  sound.  However,  through 
the lens of our businesses, we continue to see in Australia the 
impacts  of  global  uncertainty:  higher  savings  rates,  lower 
demand  for  credit,  lower  discretionary  spending  and  weaker 
equity  markets.  These  impacts  combine  to  create  a  lower 
revenue  growth environment,  which  could  be  with us  for some 
time yet. 

In  addition  to  these  economic  factors,  regulation  is  playing  a 
greater  part  in  our  businesses.  Increased  regulation  is  an 
inevitable  outcome  of  the  global  financial  crisis.  The  most 
significant  areas  of  reform  relate  to  the  amount  and  quality  of 
capital  we  hold,  liquidity  requirements,  and  the  way  in  which 
financial  advice  is  provided.  The  Group  has  constructive  on-
going  dialogue  with  regulators  on  the  details  of  relevant 
regulations,  and  inevitably  there  are  some  areas  where  our 
views  diverge.  However,  we  understand  the  need  for  greater 
regulation. So our focus is on ensuring that the Group complies 
fully with all regulation, and that our business model adapts as 
required.  This  includes  recognition  of  the  costs  of  greater 
regulation. 

One area of development that the financial crisis has not slowed 
is  technology.  Improved  availability  and  speeds  of  fixed  and 
wireless  networks,  innovation  in  devices  (particularly  mobile 
devices)  and  applications  for  use  on  them,  rapidly  decreasing 
costs  of  storage,  and  the  exponential  improvement  in  analytic 
tools  continue  to  change  the  habits  and  preferences  of  our 
customers, surface  new  competitors,  and  provide  opportunities 
for  improved  productivity.  At  the  core  of  our  strategy  for  the 
Group is a belief that these rapid changes in technology create 
significant  opportunity  for  early  adapters,  and  commensurate 
risks for financial  institutions  that  underestimate  the speed  and 
extent of change. 

A balance of short-term momentum… 

Our  management  team  is  committed  to  delivering  long  term 
value  to  our  shareholders. We  also  realise  that  our  short  term 
performance is important to you, particularly our ability to deliver 
sustained profit growth and reliable dividends. Our challenge is 
to  ensure  that  the  Group  adapts  to  the  significant  economic, 
regulatory  and  technology-driven  changes  in  our  operating 
environment referred to earlier, whilst continuing to perform well 
in the short term. 

We  believe  that  we  achieved  that  balance  successfully  during 
the 2012 financial year. The Group‟s cash earnings for the 2012 
financial  year  were  $7.1  billion.  Our  cash  return  on  equity  was 
18.6%. Relative to our peers and given the uncertain and volatile 
environment in which we are operating, this is a good result; and 
we are pleased to be able to distribute 75% of our cash earnings 
to you by way of dividends. 

Underlying  the  strong  overall  results  were  a  number  of 

4 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

  We  continued  to  make  progress  in  customer  satisfaction. 
Our business bank led the industry in customer satisfaction 
throughout the year; and our retail bank closed the gap to 
number one to the narrowest it has been in the history of 
the Roy Morgan survey; 
The Group maintained its strong capital position and held 
$135 billion of liquids as at 30 June 2012. We are one of a 
handful of global banks with a AA credit rating; 
Customer  deposits  grew  strongly,  with  balance  growth  of 
9%. This enabled us to maintain an industry leading market 
share of 26% in retail deposits; 

 

 

 

  We finalised the migration of business and retail customers 
to  our  new  globally  leading  core  banking  platform.  The 
platform makes  us the only major bank  able to  offer  real-
time banking to all its customers; 
To take advantage of our real-time competitive advantage, 
we  launched  our  revolutionary  “Kaching”  app,  which  is 
available  on  Apple  iPhones  and  iPads  and  a  range  of 
Android  smartphones  and  tablet  devices.  The  app,  which 
has  been  downloaded  more  than  460,000  times,  enables 
our  customers  to  make  payments  via  mobile,  email  or  to 
Facebook contacts; 
The  “Kaching”  launch  was  followed  with  the  launch  of  Pi. 
This  brings  world-leading  software 
to  point-of-sale 
interactions  between  businesses  and  their  customers.  It 
does so through an  open software platform that will allow 
businesses to download apps, or even create and upload 
apps, to enhance the experiences of their customers; and 
To commemorate our centenary, we committed to increase 
our  investment  in  Australian  communities  by  $100  million 
over the next 10 years. 

 

 

…and long term change 

In  addition  to  achieving  these  outcomes  during  the  financial 
year, the Group maintained its focus on long term value. When I 
assumed  the  role  of  CEO  in  December  2011,  I  indicated  that 
shareholders  could  expect  a  high  degree  of  continuity  with the 
strategy  that  the  Group  had  successfully  executed  under  the 
leadership of Ralph Norris over the preceding six years.  

The Group has very strong foundations from which to continue 
to  build  its  Iong  term  strategy.  In  addition  to  having  the  most 
highly respected financial services brand in Australia, the Group 
has  an  extensive  network  of  over  1,150  branches,  the  largest 
proprietary ATM  network,  as  well  as the most  visited  domestic 
financial  website,  which  is  also  the  fourth  most  visited  website 
overall in Australia.  

According to Roy Morgan Research, we are the main financial 
institution  for  one  in  every  three  Australians.  The  Group  has 
leading  market  shares  in  mortgages,  deposits  and  payments, 
and in merchant acquiring.  

Further details on how we will build on these foundations  were 
provided in a strategy update in April. Specifically, I outlined our 
intention to build capability in four primary areas to deliver long 
term value to our shareholders: people, technology, strength and 
productivity. 

People  

We  will  continue  to  actively  build  a  culture  based  on  high 
integrity,  collaboration,  individual  and  collective  accountability, 
and  pride  in  the  Group.  We  will  invest  in  our  people  through 
enhanced  talent  programmes,  by  our  commitment  to  our 
diversity  goals,  and  by  ensuring  that  our  people  continue  to 
enjoy a safe, supportive and secure work environment.  

 
Chief Executive Officer’s Statement 

Technology 

The Group aspires to become a global leader in the application 
of technology to financial services. With a multi-year upgrade of 
our  core  banking  platform  nearly  complete,  unwavering 
management  focus  on  extracting  the  benefits  of  that  upgrade, 
and  a  customer-focused  culture,  we  believe  the  Group  is  well 
positioned to achieve this aspiration. 

Our efforts are focused on three areas: convenience, simplicity 
and information: 

 

 

 

Convenience:  Increasingly  our  customers  want  to  interact 
with us while doing other things at home, or, while on the 
move.  Currently,  46%  of  Netbank  log-ins    are  through 
mobile devices. That trend is accelerating – up from 26% a 
year  ago.  At  the  same  time,  of  course,  many  people  still 
want to visit our branches. To meet this trend, we need to 
ensure  that  people  can  interact  with  us  whenever  and 
however they wish,  ensuring that their experience is a real 
time one. For example, small business owners want to see 
their new balances and get value for deposits immediately, 
not days later; 
Simplicity:  Our  customers  are  telling  us  that  they  want 
things simpler, so they can have more control of what they 
are  doing. We  are  progressively  applying  new  technology 
to  enable  customers  to  play  a  greater  part  in  product 
design.  That  helps  us  create  more  intuitive  products  and 
services,  readily  understandable  to  our  customers  and 
more tailored to their individual needs; and 
Information:  At  the  Commonwealth  Bank  we  see  at  least 
one side of more than 40% of all financial transactions that 
happen  in  Australia.  Having  access  to  the  information  is 
one thing; the issue is how to use it. The Group is thinking 
very  carefully  about  the  manner  in  which  it  stores  and 
organises  this  information.  This  will  help  us  get  greater 
insights  into  the  economy,  and  assist  us  to  tailor  better 
products for customers and price for risk more effectively. 

Strength  

We learned through the financial crisis that strength is critical to 
long-term  sustainability,  and  also  creates  opportunities  for 
competitive advantage.  

It  is  a  strategic  priority  for  us  to  maintain  our  strength.  This 
priority impacts our decisions on levels of capital, liquid assets, 
deposit funding and sources and duration of wholesale funding. 
It  also  ensures  that  the  Group  maintains  the  rigorous  lending 
standards that have served us well over time. 

Sometimes  our  predisposition to  retaining  a strong  and flexible 
balance sheet may not be optimal from a short term profitability 
perspective. But we are here for the long term.  

Strength  also  requires  a  thorough  approach  to  surfacing  and 
mitigating operational risks in our business. Recent experiences 
of  major  financial  institutions  overseas  highlight  the  fragility  of 
reputation,  and  the  potential  for  a  single  incident  to  undermine 
years of effort in building reputation. Our reputation is our most 
valuable  asset,  and  it  is  the  responsibility  of  all  our  people  to 
preserve and enhance it.  

Productivity 

In  all  economic  climates,  the  Group  needs  to  focus  on  finding 
to  our 
better  ways  of  delivering  products  and  services 
customers, while at the same time improving efficiency. We are 
devoting  considerable  management  attention  to  a  Group-wide 
productivity  programme,  to  improve  the  core  processes  in  our 
businesses.  

In addition to making our business more customer-friendly and 
efficient  in  the  long  term,  this  programme  will  improve  our 
expense  management  in  the  short  term.  Through  successful 
execution of this programme over several years, the Group will 
avoid short-term cost cutting initiatives that damage morale and 
therefore undermine long term value. We will not set targets for 
reduction in people numbers. Nor will we resort to the offshoring 
of Australian jobs. 

Strengthening these four capabilities will drive on-going growth. 
In  particular  an  opportunity  exists  to  broaden  our  relationship 
with our personal customers, continue to drive share growth in 
business and institutional banking, and continue a measured but 
committed  strategy  to  deploy  our  capabilities  in  off-shore 
markets  we  know  well,  particularly  in  Indonesia,  through  our 
banking  and  insurance  partnerships  in  China,  and  through  the 
global reach of our asset management business. 

The coming year 

Throughout 
the  broader 
the  organisation,  we  embrace 
responsibility  to  the communities  in  which  the  Group  operates. 
My  team  and  I  are  committed  to  building  on  the  proud  legacy 
that  we  have  inherited.  In  doing  so,  we  need  to  be  active  and 
responsible members of our broader community.  

As  a  result  of  the  Global  Financial  Crisis  there  has  been 
increased negative sentiment towards financial institutions, even 
in  countries  like Australia,  where  banks  have  remained  strong. 
As  one  of  Australia‟s  leading  financial  institutions,  we  need  to 
acknowledge and respond to these concerns.  

The  Group  will  maintain  close  ties  to  the  broader  community 
through  building  and  sustaining  relationships  that  add  value  to 
the community, particularly in financial literacy.  

The key to strengthening relationships with the community is not 
through  big  brand  campaigns  or  glossy  reports;  rather  it  is 
building long  term committed  partnerships  starting  at the  grass 
roots level.  

We are also constantly mindful that this institution is owned by 
800,000  Australian  households  directly  and  millions  more  who 
own our shares through superannuation funds.  

2012 has been a year of change for CBA and one in which we 
have many achievements to be proud of across the Group. The 
progress  we  have  made  this  year  is  a  direct  result  of  the 
commitment of our people, who have continued to deliver great 
outcomes 
in  a  competitive 
environment. 

for  all  of  our  stakeholders 

The Group is well positioned for the future. I am confident that 
our company has the ability to continue to deliver superior long 
term  performance  for  our  customers,  our  shareholders,  our 
people and the communities in which we operate. 

Ian Narev 

Chief Executive Officer 

15 August 2012 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

5 

 
 
 
Highlights 

Group Performance Highlights 

Capital  

The  Group  further  strengthened  its  capital  position  at  30  June 
2012  under  the  existing  Basel  II  methodology  with  Common 
Equity Tier One (CET1) and Tier One Capital ratios of 7.8% and 
10.0% respectively. 

Under  the  application  of  Basel  III,  which  is  to  be  implemented 
from 1 January 2013, the Group has a CET1 ratio of 9.8% as at 
30 June 2012 as measured on a fully internationally harmonised 
basis. This is well above the minimum prescribed  at 1 January 
2013 of 4.5% and compares favourably to international peers. 

The  Board  has  approved  a  Basel  III  CET1  internationally 
harmonised target ratio of greater than 9%. This is discussed in 
more detail on page 41.  

Funding 

The Group remains well funded, enabling it to provide ongoing 
support  to  customers,  despite  the  continuing  impact  of  the 
European  sovereign  debt  crisis.  However,  wholesale  and 
domestic  deposit  funding  remains  expensive  and  continues  to 
place pressure on the Group‟s net interest margin. While system 
credit  growth  remained  subdued,  the  Group  satisfied  a  higher 
proportion of its funding requirements from domestic deposits. 

Customer deposits increased to $379 billion as at 30 June 2012, 
the  prior  year.  Customer  deposits 
up  $30  billion  over 
represented 62% of the Group‟s total funding source at 30 June 
2012, up from 61% in the prior year. 

Covered bonds also became a more significant contributor to the 
Group‟s funding following the amendment to banking regulations 
in October 2011 which allows Australian banks to issue covered 
bonds. 

Dividends 

The final dividend declared was $1.97 per share, up 5% on the 
prior year. The total dividend for the year  ended 30 June 2012 
was  $3.34  per  share,  taking  the  dividend  payout  ratio  (“cash 
basis”) to 75%. 

The  final  dividend  payment  will  be  fully  franked  and  paid  on  5 
October  2012  to  owners  of  ordinary  shares  at  the  close  of 
business  on  24  August  2012  (record  date).  Shares  will  be 
quoted ex–dividend on 20 August 2012.  

Outlook 

The  Group  remains  positive  about  the  medium  to  long  term 
outlook  for  Australia.  However,  the  global  economy  remains 
uncertain.  It  is  difficult  to  see  the  catalyst  for  alleviating  the 
uncertainty which will continue to affect consumer and corporate 
confidence. In the near term, the Group expects current revenue 
trends  to  continue,  while  retaining  conservative  business 
settings. 

Against  this  backdrop,  the  Group  will  continue  to  operate  in  a 
disciplined and prudent manner, focused on driving sustainable 
improvements  in  business  performance  and  investing  in  long-
term  strategic  priorities.  The  Group  is  confident  that  our 
customer  focused  strategy  positions  the  business  well  for  the 
long term. 

The  Group‟s  net  profit  after  tax  (“statutory  basis”)  for  the  year 
ended  30  June  2012  was  $7,090  million,  up  11%  on  the  prior 
year.  

Return on equity (“statutory basis”) was 18.7% and Earnings per 
share  (“statutory  basis”)  was  448.9  cents,  up  9%  on  the  prior 
year. 

The  Management  Discussion  and  Analysis  discloses  the  net 
profit after tax on both a “statutory basis” and a “cash basis”. The 
statutory basis is prepared in accordance with the Corporations 
Act  2001  and  the  Australian  Accounting  Standards,  which 
comply with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). 
The cash basis is used by Management to present a clear view 
of the Group‟s underlying operating results, excluding a number 
of items that introduce volatility and/or one-off distortions of the 
Group‟s  current  period  performance.  These  items,  such  as 
hedging and IFRS volatility, are calculated consistently year on 
year  and  do  not  discriminate  between  positive  and  negative 
adjustments.  A  list  of  items  excluded  from  statutory  profit  is 
provided  in  the  reconciliation  of  the  Net  profit  after  tax  (“cash 
basis”) on page 7 and described in greater detail on page 13. 

The  Group  has  achieved  another  solid  financial  result  in  a 
challenging  environment,  characterised  by  subdued  credit 
growth,  fragile  business  and  consumer  confidence,  elevated 
funding costs and continuing volatility in global markets. 

The Group‟s focus on building long term competitive advantage, 
combined  with  a  strong  financial  platform,  diversified  business 
model  and  strong  risk  management  culture  enabled  it  to 
effectively  manage  these  unpredictable  economic  conditions, 
maintain momentum and generate sustainable returns. 

Operating income growth was impacted by the low credit growth 
environment,  increased  funding  costs  and  competitive  lending 
and  deposit  markets.  The  Markets  and  Wealth  Management 
businesses also faced challenging market conditions. 

Operating  expense  growth  has  been  contained 
through 
disciplined  cost  management,  without  disrupting  investment  in 
the  underlying  businesses,  including  the  effective  execution  of 
the  Core  Banking  Modernisation 
long-term 
commitment  to  productivity  to  improve  customers‟  experience 
and Group efficiency is a key strategic priority. 

initiative.  The 

Loan  impairment  expense  decreased,  mainly  reflecting  a 
reduction  in  new  impaired  single  name  exposures  within 
Institutional  Banking  and  Markets.  Economic  overlays  were 
maintained,  reflecting  the  Group‟s  conservative  approach  to 
provisioning as business conditions remain challenging for some 
of the Group‟s customers. 

Net  profit  after  tax  (“cash  basis”)  for  the  year  ended  30  June 
2012 was $7,113 million, which represented an increase of 4% 
on  the  prior  year.  Cash  earnings  per  share  increased  2%  to 
449.4 cents per share. 

Return on Equity (“cash basis”) for the year ended 30 June 2012 
was  18.6%,  down  90  basis  points  on  the  prior  year,  reflecting 
increased profitability offset by a further strengthening of capital. 

6 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Net Profit after30/06/1230/06/1130/06/1231/12/11Income Tax$M$M$M$MStatutory basis7,0906,3943,4663,624Cash basis7,1136,8353,5373,576Full Year Ended Half Year Ended  
 
 
Highlights 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparatives have been restated for the reallocation of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap cost from Other 

banking income into Net interest income. 

 (2) For purposes of presentation, Policyholder tax expense components of Corporate tax expense are shown on a net basis (30 June 2012: $122 million, 30 June 2011: 

$166 million and for the half years ended 30 June 2012: $82 million and 31 December 2011: $40 million).  

(3) Non-controlling interests include preference dividends paid to holders of preference shares in ASB Capital Limited and ASB Capital No.2 Limited. 

Group Return on Equity 

Group Return on Assets 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

7 

 21.5%21.7%20.4%15.8%18.7%19.5%18.6%2006200720082009201020112012RoE -Cash (%) 3834404886206466687184.14.54.74.46.16.87.11.1%1.0%0.0%0.2%0.4%0.6%0.8%1.0%1.2%02004006008002006200720082009201020112012Total Assets ($bn)Cash NPAT ($bn)RoA -Cash (%)Group Performance30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vs30/06/12Jun 12  vsSummary$M$MJun 11 %$M$MDec 11 %$MJun 11 %Net interest income (1)13,15712,64546,5136,644(2)13,1224Other banking income (1)3,9273,996(2)2,0001,92744,08912Total banking income17,08416,64138,5138,571(1)17,2116Funds management income1,9572,041(4)980977-1,940(5)Insurance income96085612459501(8)1,23310Total operating income20,00119,53829,95210,049(1)20,3845Investment experience14912123935666n/a n/a Total income20,15019,659210,04510,105(1)20,3845Operating expenses(9,196)(8,891)3(4,594)(4,602)-(9,331)3Loan impairment expense(1,089)(1,280)(15)(544)(545)-(1,089)(15)Net profit before tax9,8659,48844,9074,958(1)9,96410Corporate tax expense (2)(2,736)(2,637)4(1,363)(1,373)(1)(2,858)8Non-controlling interests (3)(16)(16)-(7)(9)(22)(16)-Net profit after tax ("cash basis")7,1136,83543,5373,576(1)n/a n/a Hedging and IFRS volatility124(265)large9115(92)n/a n/a Other non-cash items(147)(176)(16)(80)(67)19n/a n/a Net profit after tax ("statutory basis")7,0906,394113,4663,624(4)7,09011Represented by: Retail Banking Services 2,9342,85431,4951,4394Business and Private Banking 1,0671,0304516551(6)Institutional Banking and Markets 1,0601,0046513547(6)Wealth Management569642(11)2972729New Zealand4904704232258(10)Bankwest52446313256268(4)Other46937226228241(5)Net profit after tax ("cash basis")7,1136,83543,5373,576(1)Investment experience - after tax(89)(81)10(53)(36)47Net profit after tax ("underlying basis")7,0246,75443,4843,540(2)Full Year EndedHalf Year EndedFull Year EndedStatutory 
 
 
 
  
 
Highlights 

(1) Fully diluted EPS and weighted average number of shares are disclosed in Note 7. 

Credit Ratings 
Fitch Ratings (1) 
Moody‟s Investor Services 
Standard & Poor's (2) 

Long–term 

Short–term 

Outlook 

AA- 
Aa2 
AA- 

F1+ 
P-1 
A-1+ 

Stable 
Stable 
Stable 

(1) On 24 February 2012, Fitch Ratings downgraded the long-term credit rating of the Bank to „AA-„, with all major domestic peer banks also rated „AA-„. 

(2) On 1 December 2011, Standards & Poor‟s downgraded the long-term credit ratings of the Bank along with the other three major Australian banks. 

 (1) Prior periods have been restated in line with market updates. 
(2) As at 31 May 2012. 

(3) Personal lending market share includes personal loans and margin loans. 

(4) In accordance with RBA guidelines, these measures include some products relating to both the Retail and Corporate segments. 

(5) As at 31 March 2012. 

8 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsShareholder Summary30/06/1230/06/11Jun 11 %30/06/1231/12/11Dec 11 %Dividends per share - fully franked (cents) 334320419713744Dividend cover - cash (times)1. 31. 4(7)1. 11. 6(31)Earnings per share (cents)Statutory basis - basic 448. 9411. 29218. 1230. 8(6)Cash basis - basic449. 4438. 72222. 2227. 2(2)Dividend payout ratio (%)Statutory basis75. 278. 3(310)bpts91. 160. 1largeCash basis 75. 073. 2180 bpts89. 260. 9largeWeighted average no. of shares ("statutory basis") - basic (M) (1)1,5701,54521,5791,5611Weighted average no. of shares ("cash basis") - basic (M) (1)1,5731,54821,5831,5641Return on equity ("cash basis") (%)18. 619. 5(90)bpts18. 119. 2(110)bptsReturn on equity ("statutory basis") (%)18. 718. 430 bpts17. 919. 6(170)bptsFull Year Ended Half Year Ended 30/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Market Share Percentage%%%Home loans25. 725. 925. 8Credit cards (1) (2)23. 423. 723. 0Personal lending (APRA and other Household) (3)14. 814. 614. 8Household deposits28. 929. 430. 0Retail deposits (4)26. 026. 426. 9Business Lending - APRA (1)17. 517. 618. 0Business Lending - RBA (1)17. 016. 916. 7Business Deposits - APRA (1)20. 420. 520. 8Asset Finance13. 613. 713. 9Equities trading5. 55. 85. 9Australian Retail - administrator view (1) (5)15. 115. 015. 1FirstChoice Platform (1) (5)11. 611. 611. 5Australia (total risk) (1) (5)13. 413. 212. 5Australia (individual risk) (5)13. 313. 313. 4NZ Lending for housing21. 622. 022. 1NZ Retail Deposits (1)20. 621. 021. 3NZ Lending to business (1)9. 09. 08. 8NZ Retail FUM (1)18. 815. 114. 5NZ Annual inforce premiums30. 330. 230. 1As at 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Highlights 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs 
from Other banking income into Net interest income; the inclusion of securitisation net interest income; the inclusion of Bank acceptances of customers and Securitised 
home loans in Interest earning assets; and the inclusion of Securitised debt issues and Bank acceptances in Interest bearing liabilities to conform with presentation in 
the current period. 

(2) Net operating income represents total operating income less volume expenses.  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

9 

Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsKey Performance Indicators30/06/1230/06/11Jun 11 %30/06/1231/12/11Dec 11 %GroupStatutory net profit after tax ($M)7,0906,394113,4663,624(4)Cash net profit after tax ($M)7,1136,83543,5373,576(1)Net interest margin (%)2. 092. 12(3)bpts2. 062. 12(6)bptsAverage interest earning assets ($M) (1)629,685597,4065636,547622,8982Average interest bearing liabilities ($M) (1)590,654559,0956595,873585,4922Funds management income to average FUA (%) 0. 991. 04(5)bpts0. 981. 00(2)bptsFunds Under Administration (FUA) - average ($M) 198,115196,2541200,960194,4213Insurance income to average inforce premiums (%) 42. 241. 570 bpts39. 145. 7largeAverage inforce premiums ($M) 2,2762,063102,3632,1808Operating expenses to total operating income (%)46. 045. 550 bpts46. 245. 840 bptsEffective corporate tax rate (%) 27. 727. 8(10)bpts27. 827. 710 bptsRetail Banking ServicesCash net profit after tax ($M)2,9342,85431,4951,4394Operating expenses to total banking income (%)38. 138. 6(50)bpts38. 038. 3(30)bptsBusiness and Private BankingCash net profit after tax ($M)1,0671,0304516551(6)Operating expenses to total banking income (%)43. 443. 9(50)bpts43. 942. 9100 bptsInstitutional Banking and MarketsCash net profit after tax ($M)1,0601,0046513547(6)Operating expenses to total banking income (%)36. 333. 6270 bpts36. 036. 5(50)bptsWealth ManagementCash net profit after tax ($M)569642(11)2972729FUA - average ($M)189,699188,866-192,325186,2663Average inforce premiums ($M) 1,8061,612121,8891,72410Funds management income to average FUA (%)1. 001. 05(5)bpts0. 991. 01(2)bptsInsurance income to average inforce premiums (%)38. 338. 8(50)bpts34. 842. 0largeOperating expenses to net operating income (%) (2)67. 161. 6large67. 466. 950 bptsNew ZealandCash net profit after tax ($M)4904704232258(10)FUA - average ($M) 8,4167,388148,6358,1556Average inforce premiums ($M)47045144744564Funds management income to average FUA (%) 0. 520. 54(2)bpts0. 540. 513 bptsInsurance income to average inforce premiums (%)48. 346. 8150 bpts47. 150. 6(350)bptsOperating expenses to total operating income (%)50. 951. 1(20)bpts51. 650. 1150 bptsBankwestCash net profit after tax ($M)52446313256268(4)Operating expenses to total banking income (%)51. 253. 0(180)bpts51. 950. 5140 bptsCapital (Basel II)Common Equity Tier One (%)7. 827. 6616 bpts7. 827. 6715 bptsTier One (%)10. 0110. 01-10. 019. 9011 bptsTotal Capital (%)10. 9811. 70(72)bpts10. 9811. 11(13)bptsFull Year Ended Half Year Ended  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group Performance Analysis 

Financial Performance and Business Review 

The Group‟s net profit after tax (“cash basis”) for the year ended 
30  June  2012  was  $7,113  million,  which  represented  a  4% 
increase on the prior year. 

Earnings  per  share  (“cash  basis”)  increased  2%  on  the  prior 
year  to  449.4  cents  per  share,  whilst  Return  on  Equity  (“cash 
basis”) decreased 90 basis points to 18.6%. 

The  Group  delivered  a  solid  financial  performance  in  a 
challenging  environment  impacted  by  ongoing  volatility  and 
uncertainty  in  global  markets.  This  result  reflects  the  Group‟s 
financial  strength  and  continued  momentum  despite 
the 
subdued  credit  growth  environment,  the  impact  of  increased 
domestic  deposit  and  wholesale  funding  costs,  and  difficult 
trading  conditions  for  the  markets-related  businesses.  Key 
elements of the Group result included: 

 

Net  interest  income  increased  4%  to  $13,157  million, 
reflecting a 5% increase in average interest earning assets, 
partly  offset  by  a  three  basis  point  decline  in  net  interest 
margin; 

 

  Other  banking  income  decreased  2%  to  $3,927  million, 
driven  by  lower  equities  trading  volumes  and  Markets 
trading income, including an unfavourable counterparty fair 
value  adjustment,  partly  offset  by  higher  credit  card 
interchange income and Institutional lending fee growth; 
Funds  management  income  decreased  4%  to  $1,957 
million, impacted by declining investment markets, a higher 
proportion  of  customer  funds  invested  into  cash,  fixed 
interest  and  deposit  products,  reflecting  cautious  investor 
sentiment  and 
the 
CommInsure closed investment portfolios; 
Insurance income increased 12% to $960 million, driven by 
10%  average  inforce  premium  growth,  partly  offset  by 
higher domestic claims; 

the  managed  contraction  of 

 

$13,157 million. This was a result of growth in average interest 
earning assets of 5% partly offset by a three basis point decline 
in net interest margin to 2.09%. 

Net interest income decreased by 2% on the prior half driven by 
a  six  basis  point  decline  in  net  interest  margin  due  to  higher 
wholesale  and domestic  deposit  funding costs.  This  was  partly 
offset by a 2% increase in average interest earning assets. 

Average Interest Earning Assets 

Average interest earning assets increased by $32 billion on the 
prior  year  to  $630  billion,  reflecting  an  $18  billion  increase  in 
average  lending  interest  earning  assets  and  a  $14  billion 
increase in average non-lending interest earning assets. 

Home  loan  average  balances  increased  by  $15  billion  or  5% 
since 30 June 2011 to $343 billion. 

Average balances for business and corporate lending increased 
by $3 billion since 30 June 2011 to $165 billion, largely driven by 
growth in Institutional lending. 

Average  non-lending  interest  earning  assets  increased  $14 
billion since 30 June 2011 to $101 billion due to higher levels of 
liquid  assets  driven  by  conservative  business  settings  and 
balance sheet growth. 

Average Interest Earning Assets ($M) 

  Operating expenses increased 3% to $9,196 million, driven 
by  inflation-related  salary  increases,  property  transition 
costs related to the new Sydney CBD office premises and 
higher  compliance  costs.  This  was  partly  offset  by  the 
continued  focus  on  productivity  initiatives  to  improve 
customer experience and Group efficiency; and 
Loan  impairment  expense  decreased  15%  to  $1,089 
million, mainly reflecting a reduction in new impaired single 
name  exposures  within Institutional  Banking  and  Markets. 
Economic  overlays  remain  unchanged  reflecting 
the 
Group‟s conservative approach to provisioning as business 
conditions  remain  challenging  for  some  of  the  Group‟s 
customers. 

 

The  Group‟s  net  profit  after  tax  (“cash  basis”)  for  the  half  year 
ended  30  June  2012  decreased  1%  over  the  prior  half.  The 
result was impacted by a six basis point reduction in net interest 
margin  driven  by  higher  funding  costs.  The  life  insurance 
businesses were also impacted by unfavourable claims. 

More  comprehensive  disclosure  of  performance  highlights  by 
key business segments is contained on pages 18 to 35. 

Net Interest Income 

Net  interest  income  increased  by  4%  on  the  prior  year  to 

Net Interest Margin 

The  Group‟s  net  interest  margin  decreased  three  basis  points 
compared to the prior year to 2.09%. 

The  Australian  contribution  to  Group  net  interest  margin 
decreased five basis points. The key drivers were: 

Asset  pricing  and  mix:  Increase  in  margin  of  11  basis  points, 
reflecting the repricing of the lending portfolios in response to the 
sustained increase in both wholesale and deposit funding costs. 

Funding costs: Decrease in margin of 11 basis points reflecting 
continued increases in wholesale funding costs, ongoing intense 
competition for deposits and the falling cash rate environment. 

Treasury  and  other:  Decrease  of  five  basis  points,  driven  by 
holding higher levels of liquid assets. 

New  Zealand‟s  contribution  to  the  Group‟s  net  interest  margin 
increased two basis points. This reflected the benefit from fixed 
rate  loan  repricing  and  the  continued  shift  in  portfolio  mix  as 
customers switched from fixed to variable rate home loans. 

10 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 510,245Jun 11Jun 12Lending Interest Earning AssetsNon-Lending Interest Earning Assets629,685597,40687,1615%100,862528,823 
 
 
NIM movement since June 2011 

Over the last six months, net interest margin decreased six basis 
points compared to the prior half to 2.06%. This was mainly due 
to the impact of higher domestic deposit and wholesale funding 
costs, partly offset by asset repricing. 

Group NIM (Half Year Ended) 

Group Performance Analysis 

 

 

was partly offset by a decrease in brokerage income due to 
lower  retail  trading  volumes,  reflecting  subdued  market 
trading conditions; 
Lending  fees:  increased  2%  on  the  prior  year  to  $997 
million, driven by higher fees from strong balance growth in 
Institutional lending, higher syndication fees and customer 
growth in overdrafts. This was partly offset by the abolition 
of home loan switching and deferred establishment fees; 
Trading income: decreased 27% on the prior year to $522 
million. This was due to lower Markets income impacted by 
adverse  trading  conditions  and  unfavourable  counterparty 
fair  value  adjustments  from  widening  credit  spreads  and 
the decreasing interest rate environment; and 

  Other  income:  increased  17%  on  the  prior  year  to  $411 
million mainly  due  to  gains from  the  sale  of Sydney  CBD 
properties previously held by the Group, and higher equity 
accounted income from the Bank of Hangzhou. 

 Other banking income increased 4% on the prior half, including 
higher  fees  in  Institutional  Banking  and  Markets  and  customer 
growth  in  overdrafts.  Treasury  and  Markets  earnings  improved 
compared  to  the  prior  half,  partly  offset  by  unfavourable 
counterparty fair value adjustments. 

Funds Management Income 

Other Banking Income 

Funds management income decreased 4% on the prior year to 
$1,957 million driven by: 

 (1) Comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of bank bill 
facility fee income to Net interest income to conform with presentation in the 
current period.  

Other banking income decreased 2% on the prior year to $3,927 
million driven by: 

 

Commissions:  increased  3%  on  the  prior  year  to  $1,997 
million,  including  higher  credit  card  interchange  income 
with  the  continued  success  of  the  Diamond  Awards  card 
driving  customer  growth,  increased  foreign  exchange 
volumes and higher home loan package fee income. This  

 

 

 

 

A  2%  decrease  in  average  Funds  Under  Management 
(FUM)  to  $147  billion,  impacted  by  declining  investment 
markets  (ASX200  Index  down  11%;  MSCI  Emerging 
Markets Index (AUD) down 14%); 
A higher proportion of customer funds invested into cash, 
fixed  interest  and  deposit  products,  reflecting  cautious 
investor sentiment; 
The  managed  contractions  of  the  CommInsure  closed 
investment portfolios; partly offset by 
The  contribution 
acquired in November 2011. 

the  Count  Financial  business 

from 

FirstChoice  and  FirstWrap  continued  to  increase  market  share 
and the acquisition and integration of Count Financial resulted in 
further expansion of the distribution footprint. 

income 

funds  under 
Funds  management 
administration  (FUA)  margin  decreased  by  five  basis  points  to 
0.99%,  impacted  by  the  shift  in  business  mix  to  cash,  fixed 
interest and deposit products. 

to  average 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

11 

 0.11%0.02%(0.11%)(0.05%)2.12%2.09%1.50%1.70%1.90%2.10%2.30%Jun-11Asset Pricing & MixFunding CostsTreasury & OtherNew ZealandJun-12(5) bpts 2.06%2.17%2.12%2.06%1.50%1.70%1.90%2.10%2.30%Dec 10Jun 11Dec 11Jun 1230/06/1230/06/1130/06/1231/12/11$M$M$M$MCommissions1,9971,9469881,009Lending fees (1)997982536461Trading income522717281241Other income411351195216Total3,9273,9962,0001,927Full Year Ended Half Year Ended 30/06/1230/06/1130/06/1231/12/11$M$M$M$MCFSGAM883907435448Colonial First State845860431414CommInsure1602087783New Zealand and Other69663732Total1,9572,041980977Full Year EndedHalf Year Ended 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group Performance Analysis 

Insurance Income 

Group Expense Income 

Insurance  income  increased  by 12%  on the  prior  year to  $960 
million driven by: 

 
 

 

Average inforce premium growth of 10% to $2,276 million; 
Improved life insurance claims experience and lapse rates 
in New Zealand; partly offset by 
Higher domestic life and general insurance claims. 

Insurance  income  decreased  8%  compared  to  the  prior  half 
driven  by  higher  claims,  partly  offset  by  an  8%  increase  in 
average inforce premiums. 

Operating Expenses 

Loan Impairment Expense 

Loan impairment expense for the year was $1,089 million, which 
represented  21  basis  points  of  average  gross  loans  and 
acceptances. Loan impairment expense decreased 15% on the 
prior year, largely driven by: 

 

 

A substantial decrease in loan impairment expense for the 
Institutional  Banking  and  Markets  business  due  to  a 
reduction in new impaired single name exposures; 
A  reduction  in  Bankwest‟s  loan  impairment  expense  as 
higher risk business loans continued to run-off; partly offset 
by 
Higher Retail Bank loan impairment expense, primarily due 
to increased write-offs in the unsecured retail portfolio. 
Loan impairment expense of $544 million for the half year ended 
30  June  2012,  was  slightly  lower  than  the  prior  half  and 
represented  20  basis  points  of  average  gross  loans  and 
acceptances (annualised). 

 

Operating  expenses  increased  3%  on  the  prior  year  to  $9,196 
million. The key drivers were: 

Half Year Impairment Expense annualised as a % of 
Average Gross Loans and Acceptances 

 

Staff expenses: increased by 3% to $4,947 million, driven 
by  inflation-related  salary  increases,  growth  in  offshore 
businesses and higher defined benefit superannuation plan 
expense, partly offset by productivity improvements; 
  Occupancy and Equipment expenses: increased by 6% to 
$1,056 million, largely impacted by the transition to the new 
office premises at Darling Quarter in the Sydney CBD and 
Bankwest Place in Perth, inflation-related rent reviews and 
higher operating lease depreciation; 
Information Technology Services expenses: decreased by 
3% to $1,159 million, driven by disciplined vendor expense 
management,  efficiency  gains 
from  on  demand 
infrastructure 
improvements  and  de-commissioning  of 
legacy systems; 

 

  Other  expenses:  increased  by  6%  to  $2,034  million, 
impacted  by  higher  compliance  and  credit  card  rewards 
programme expenses. 

Operating  expenses  were  slightly  lower  compared  to  the  prior 
half  reflecting  disciplined  cost  management  and  the  continued 
focus on productivity initiatives. 

Group Expense to Income Ratio 

The Group expense to income ratio increased by 50 basis points 
over  the  prior  year  to  46.0%.  The Banking  expense  to  income 
ratio increased ten basis points on the prior year to 41.2%. 

These ratios reflect lower relative income growth, partly offset by 
the  continued  focus  on  technology  and  operating  efficiencies, 
underpinned by the long term commitment to productivity. 

12 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Provisions for Impairment 

The  Group  maintains  a  prudent  and  conservative  approach  to 
provisioning,  with  total  provisions  for  impairment  losses  of 
$4,845 million as at 30 June 2012, which is a 6% reduction on 
30 June 2011. The current level of provision reflects: 

 

 

 

Lower  Commercial  and  Bankwest  individually  assessed 
provisions  as  the  level  of  impaired  commercial  assets 
reduced over the year; 
The  reduction  of Bankwest collective  provisions  as  higher 
risk business loans continued to run-off; and 
A  reduction  in  management  overlays,  with  economic 
overlays unchanged since 30 June 2011. 

30/06/1230/06/1130/06/1231/12/11$M$M$M$MCommInsure 691625327364New Zealand and Other269231132137Total960856459501Full Year Ended Half Year Ended 30/06/1230/06/1130/06/1231/12/11$M$M$M$MStaff expenses4,9474,7872,4692,478Occupancy and Equipment expenses1,056993535521IT Services expenses1,1591,193578581Other expenses2,0341,9181,0121,022Total9,1968,8914,5944,602Full Year EndedHalf Year Ended 45.5%46.0%41.1%41.2%38.0%41.0%44.0%47.0%Jun 11Jun 12Group expense to income ratioBanking expense to income ratio 0.28%0.28%0.22%0.21%0.20%Jun 10Dec 10Jun 11Dec 11Jun 12 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group Performance Analysis 

no  expenses  incurred  during  the  current  year  (30  June  2011: 
$66 million after tax). 

These 2011 expenses were not recognised in cash profit as they 
were  not  representative  of  the  Group‟s  expected  ongoing 
financial performance. 

Count Financial Limited Acquisition Costs  

During the  year the Group  acquired  100%  of the issued share 
capital  of  Count  Financial  Limited  (Count  Financial),  an 
independent,  accountant-based  financial  advice  business.  As 
part  of  the  acquisition,  the  Group  incurred  retention,  advisory 
and  other  expenses  totalling  $60 million  ($43 million  after tax). 
These  items  are  not  recognised  in  cash  profit  as  they  are  not 
representative  of  the  Group‟s  expected  ongoing 
financial 
performance. 

Taxation Expense 

The corporate tax expense was $2,736 million, representing an 
effective tax rate of 27.7%. 

Gains/losses  on  Disposal  of  Controlled  Entities/ 
Investments 

The effective tax rate is below the Australian company tax rate of 
30%  primarily  as  a  result  of  the  profit  earned  by  the  offshore 
banking  unit  and  in  offshore  jurisdictions  that  have  lower 
corporate tax rates. 

Non-cash items included in Statutory Profit 

Non-cash  items  are  excluded  from  net  profit  after  tax  (“cash 
basis”,  which  is  Management‟s  preferred  measure  of  the 
Group‟s financial performance, as they tend to be non-recurring 
in  nature  or  not  considered  representative  of  the  Group‟s 
ongoing financial performance. The impact of these items on the 
Group‟s  net  profit  after  tax  (“statutory  basis”)  is  outlined  below 
and is treated consistently with prior period disclosures. 

Hedging and IFRS Volatility 

Hedging and IFRS volatility includes unrealised fair value gains 
or  losses  on  economic  hedges  that  do  not  qualify  for  hedge 
accounting under IFRS, including: 

 

 

Cross  currency  interest  rate  swaps  hedging  foreign 
currency denominated debt issues; and 
Foreign exchange hedges relating to future New Zealand 
earnings. 

Hedging  and  IFRS  volatility  also  includes  unrealised  fair  value 
gains  or  losses  on  the  ineffective  portion  of  economic  hedges 
that qualify for hedge accounting under IFRS. 

Fair value gains or losses on all of these economic hedges are 
excluded  from  cash  profit  since  the  asymmetric  recognition  of 
the  gains  or  losses  does  not  affect  the  Group‟s  performance 
over  the  life  of  the  hedge.  A  $124  million  after  tax  gain  was 
recognised in statutory  profit for the  year  ended  30 June  2012 
(2011: $265 million loss). 

Bankwest Non-cash Items 

Merger  related  amortisation:  The  acquisition  of  Bankwest 
resulted  in  the  recognition  of  fair  value  adjustments  on  certain 
financial  instruments, core  deposits  and  brand  name  intangible 
assets  that  will  be  amortised  over  their  useful  lives.  An  $89 
million after tax expense was recognised for the year ended 30 
June 2012 (30 June 2011: $81 million expense). 

Integration expenses: The integration of the Bankwest business 
into the Group was completed as of 30 June 2011. There were 

There  were  no  non-cash  gains/losses  relating  to  disposals  of 
controlled entities/investments included in the statutory profit for 
the  current  year  (2011:  $7  million  after  tax  loss  mainly 
representing  the  loss  on  sale  of  the  St  Andrew‟s  insurance 
business). 

Treasury Shares Valuation Adjustment 

in  cash  profit 

Under  IFRS,  CBA  shares  held  by  the  Group  in  the  managed 
funds  and  life  insurance  businesses  are  defined  as  treasury 
shares  and  are  held  at  cost.  Unrealised  gains  or  losses  are 
the  underlying 
recognised 
performance of the asset portfolio attributable to the wealth and 
life insurance businesses. These unrealised gains or losses are 
reversed as a non-cash item for statutory reporting purposes. A 
$15 million after tax gain was included in cash profit in the year 
ended 30 June 2012 (2011: $22 million gain). 

representing 

Policyholder Tax 

Policyholder tax is included in the Wealth Management business 
results  for  statutory  reporting  purposes.  In  the  year  ended  30 
June 2012, tax expense of $122 million (2011: $166 million tax 
expense), funds management expense of $9 million (2011: $62 
million  income)  and  insurance  income  of  $131  million  (2011: 
$104  million  income)  was  recognised.  The  gross  up  of  these 
items  is  excluded  from  cash  profit  as  they  do  not  reflect  the 
underlying performance of the business which is measured on a 
net of policyholder tax basis. 

Core Banking Modernisation 

During  the  year,  the  Group  invested  $368  million  on  the  Core 
Banking  Modernisation  initiative,  which  continues  to  make 
significant progress. Highlights over the year include: 

 

 

 

Migration  of 
the  majority  of  business  deposit  and 
transaction  accounts  onto  the  new  platform,  allowing 
customers  to  enjoy  the  benefits  of  real-time  banking, 
including everyday settlement; 
Implementation  of  functionality  which  will  enable  the 
migration of existing commercial loan accounts, as well as 
improved features for new accounts; and 
Implementation of SAP Business Partner as the Group‟s 
new core customer information store, providing the Group 
with streamlined customer-centric processes. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

13 

588 596 619 808 890 898 598 528 473 1,049 970 847 Jun 11Dec 11Jun 12Collective Provisions ($m)2,837969 880 847 177 218 227 979 999 934 Jun 11Dec 11Jun 12Individual Provisions ($m)OverlayBankwestConsumerCommercial3,0432,9842,1252,0972,008 
 
 
Group Performance Analysis 

Credit Quality 

During  the  year  ended  30  June  2012,  the  credit  quality  of  the 
business  and  corporate  portfolios  gradually 
improved  as 
reflected  in  the  reduction  of  the  Group‟s  troublesome  and 
impaired assets.  

The  retail  portfolios  arrears  improved  over  the  year.  30+  day 
home loan arrears reduced from 1.94%  to 1.69% and 90+ day 
arrears  reduced  from  1.03%  to  0.88%.  Home  loan  arrears 
declined  across  all  businesses  reflecting  the  impact  of  natural 
disasters in prior years and increased collections effectiveness. 

Unsecured  retail  arrears  also  improved  with  Credit  Card  30+ 

days arrears falling from 2.99% to 2.63% over the year, and 90+ 
days  arrears  reducing  from  1.20%  to  1.07%.  Personal  Loans 
arrears also showed improvement over the year with 30+ days 
arrears  falling  from  3.07%  to  2.77%  and  90+  days  arrears 
decreasing from 1.26% to 1.12%. 

Gross impaired assets were $4,499 million as at 30 June 2012, 
a reduction of 15% over the prior year. Gross impaired assets as 
a proportion of gross loans and acceptances of 0.83% reduced 
by  19  basis  points  compared  to  30  June  2011.  The  impaired 
asset portfolio remains well provisioned with provision coverage 
of 44.6%. 

14 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsOther Credit Quality Metrics30/06/1230/06/11Jun 11 %30/06/1231/12/11Dec 11 %Gross loans and acceptances ($M)542,097518,0755542,097530,8992Risk weighted assets (RWA) ($M)302,787281,7117302,787297,7052Credit risk weighted assets ($M)261,429246,7426261,429258,4461Gross impaired assets ($M)4,4995,297(15)4,4994,692(4)Net impaired assets ($M)2,4913,172(21)2,4912,595(4)Collective provision as a % of credit risk weighted assets1. 091. 23(14)bpts1. 091. 15(6)bptsTotal provisions as a % of credit risk weighted assets1. 852. 09(24)bpts1. 851. 97(12)bptsIndividually assessed provisions for impairment as a % of gross impaired assets44. 6340. 12451 bpts44. 6344. 69(6)bptsImpairment expense annualised as a % of average gross loans and acceptances 0. 210. 25(4)bpts0. 200. 21(1)bpt  Full Year EndedHalf Year Ended 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Group Performance Analysis 

Review of Group Assets and Liabilities 

Other Assets 

Asset growth of $50 billion or 8% over the prior year was driven 
by an increase in home lending, business and corporate lending, 
and  non-lending  interest  earning  assets.  The  increase  in  non-
lending  interest  earning  assets  reflects  higher  liquid  asset 
holdings  as  the  Group  maintained  its  conservative  business 
settings. 

The  continued  low  credit  growth  environment,  together  with 
strong  deposit  growth,  has  allowed  the  Group  to  satisfy  its 
through  deposits.  Customer 
funding  requirements  mainly 
deposits made up 62% of total funding as at 30 June 2012 (30 
June 2011: 61%). 

Home Loans 

Home loan balances increased by $15 billion to $351 billion as 
at 30 June 2012, reflecting a 4% increase on the prior year. This 
outcome  was  the  result  of  subdued  system  credit  growth  and 
intense  price  competition.  The  Group  continues  to  maintain  its 
competitive  position  through  focusing  on  profitable  growth  and 
delivering excellent customer service. 

Personal Loans 

Personal loans, including credit cards, margin lending and other 
personal loans, increased 1% over the prior year to $21 billion. 
Strong  growth  in  credit  card  balances  and  personal  loans  was 
driven  by  new  product  offerings  and  successful  campaigns, 
including the  Diamond  Awards credit card launched in  the  first 
half of the year. This was partly offset by lower margin lending 
balances  reflecting  conservative  investor  sentiment  as  equity 
markets remained volatile over the year. 

Business and Corporate Loans 

Business and corporate loans increased $9 billion to $169 billion 
as at 30 June 2012, a 6% increase on the prior year. This was 
driven by strong growth in Institutional lending balances.  

Non-lending Interest Earning Assets 

Non-lending  interest  earning  assets  increased  $16  billion  to 
$104 billion as at 30 June 2012, an 18% increase on the prior 
year. This was driven by higher liquid asset balances held as a 
result of balance sheet growth and prudent business settings. 

Other  assets  including  derivative  assets,  insurance  assets  and 
intangibles, increased by $10 billion to $74 billion as at 30 June 
2012, a 15% increase on the prior year. This increase reflected 
higher  derivative  asset  balances  driven  by  volatility  in  interest 
rate and foreign exchange markets. 

Interest Bearing Deposits 

Interest bearing deposits increased $37 billion to $428 billion as 
at 30 June 2012, a 9% increase on the prior year. 

Continued  global  market  volatility  and  customer  preference  for 
lower  risk  investments,  together  with  targeted  campaigns  in  a 
highly  competitive  market,  resulted  in  growth  of  $21  billion  in 
investment deposits, $7 billion in savings deposits, $4 billion in 
transaction accounts and a $4 billion increase in other demand 
deposits. 

Interest  bearing  deposit  growth  slowed  to  1%  since  31 
December 2011 due to intense competition for deposits. 

Debt Issues 

Debt  issues  increased  $5  billion  to  $134  billion  as  at  30  June 
2012, a 4% increase on the prior year. While deposits satisfied 
the majority of the Group‟s funding requirements during the year, 
to  both  domestic  and 
strong  access  was  maintained 
international wholesale debt markets.  

Following  the  introduction  of  the  Covered  Bond  legislation  in 
October  2011,  the  Group  completed  several  Covered  Bond 
transactions  across  a  range  of  tenors  and  currencies,  raising 
$13 billion during the second half of the year. 

Other Interest Bearing Liabilities 

Other  interest bearing liabilities,  including  loan capital, liabilities 
at fair value through the income statement and amounts due to 
other financial institutions, increased $1 billion to $39 billion as at 
30 June 2012, a 2% increase on the prior year. 

Non-interest Bearing Liabilities 

Non-interest bearing liabilities, including derivative liabilities and 
insurance  policy liabilities, increased  by  $4  billion to $75  billion 
as at 30 June 2012, a 5% increase on the prior year. This was 
largely due to derivative liabilities hedging term debt impacted by 
interest rate and foreign exchange volatility. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

15 

 
 
 
Group Performance Analysis 

(1) Comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of Securitised home loans from Other assets to Home loans to conform with presentation in the 

current period. 

(2) Comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of Bank acceptances of customers from Other assets to Business and corporate to conform with 

presentation in the current period. 

(3) Loans, bills discounted and other receivables excludes provisions for impairment which are included in Other assets. 

(4)  Comparative  information  has  been  restated  for  the  reclassification  of  Bank  acceptances  and  Securitised  debt  issues  from  Non-interest  bearing  liabilities  to  Debt 

issues. 

16 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

30/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsTotal Group Assets & Liabilities$M$M$MDec 11 %Jun 11 %Interest earning assetsHome loans (1)350,633343,100335,84124Personal 21,05720,90720,94311Business and corporate (2)168,536164,893159,15426Loans, bills discounted and other receivables (3)540,226528,900515,93825Non-lending interest earning assets104,304103,00888,142118Total interest earning assets644,530631,908604,08027Other assets (1) (2) (3)73,69970,07863,819515Total assets718,229701,986667,89928Interest bearing liabilitiesTransaction deposits83,40182,18679,46615Savings deposits 88,98289,19481,680-9Investment deposits197,138188,917176,100412Other demand deposits 58,85262,05254,613(5)8Total interest bearing deposits428,373422,349391,85919Debt issues (4)134,429130,039129,38634Other interest bearing liabilities38,70437,84437,95022Total interest bearing liabilities601,506590,232559,19528Non-interest bearing liabilities (4)75,15172,87971,41735Total liabilities676,657663,111630,61227Provisions for impairment lossesCollective provision2,8372,9843,043(5)(7)Individually assessed provisions2,0082,0972,125(4)(6)Total provisions for impairment losses4,8455,0815,168(5)(6)Less: Off balance sheet provisions(18)(21)(21)(14)(14)Total provisions for loan impairment4,8275,0605,147(5)(6)As at 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
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Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

17 

 
 
 
 
Retail Banking Services 

Financial Performance and Business Review 

Retail Deposits 

Retail Banking Services cash net profit after tax for the full year 
ended 30 June 2012 was $2,934 million, which represented an 
increase of 3% on the prior year. The result reflected subdued 
volume growth, an ongoing focus on efficiency, a slight decrease 
in  net  interest  margin,  and  an  increase  in  loan  impairment 
expense, particularly in the first half.  

Cash net profit after tax increased 4% compared to the prior half, 
with income down 1%, offset by lower operating expenses and 
loan impairment expense.  

Banking Income 

Net  interest  income  was  $6,342  million,  an  increase  of  2%  on 
the  prior  year.  The  consumer  finance  portfolio  performed 
strongly  with  above  system  volume  growth,  resulting  from 
product innovation and in-branch and online campaigns. Lower 
demand  for  secured  credit,  and  increased  wholesale  funding 
costs coupled with competitive pricing resulted in flat net interest 
income growth for both home lending and deposits. 

Other  banking  income  increased  7%  to  $1,410  million,  due  to 
higher net interchange fee income for credit cards and deposits, 
and strong foreign exchange sales. This was partly offset by a 
decline  in  home  lending  fees  following  the  abolition  of  certain 
fees. 

Net interest income decreased 1% compared to the prior half as 
average home loan volume growth of 2% was more than offset 
by the increased cost of wholesale and retail deposit funding. 

Other  banking  income  was  flat  compared  to  the  prior  half,  as 
higher  net  interchange  income  was  offset  by  declining  home 
lending fees. 

Home Loans 

Home loan income for the year ended 30 June 2012 was $2,892 
million, slightly lower than the prior year. Average volume growth 
was  3%,  with  new  business  remaining  subdued  across  the 
broader  market.  Net  interest  margin  fell  as  the  increase  in 
wholesale  funding  costs  was  not  matched  by  variable  rate  re-
pricing. Other  banking  income  decreased  by  5%, primarily  due 
to the removal of re-financing fees from March 2011. 

Home loan income decreased 3% compared to the prior half as 
funding costs increased, particularly in the quarter ended March 
2012. 

Consumer Finance 

Consumer  Finance  income  for  the  year  ended  30  June  2012 
was  $1,896  million,  an  increase  of  11%  on  the  prior  year. 
Volume  growth  in  both  credit  cards  and  personal  lending  was 
strong,  driven  by  continued  success  of  new  products  and 
campaigns.  Credit  cards  and  personal  loans  margins  both 
improved,  the  latter  through  an  increased  focus  on  risk  based 
pricing strategies. 

Other  banking  income  increased  12%,  primarily  reflecting  the 
penetration of Amex companion credit cards and strong growth 
of  the  Diamond  Awards  credit  card  which  attracts  higher 
interchange fees. 

Consumer Finance income increased 7% compared to the prior 
half  due  to  continued  volume  growth  and  margin  improvement 
across both the credit card and personal loan portfolios. 

18 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Retail  Deposit  income  for  the  year  ended  30  June  2012  of 
$2,612 million was slightly up on the prior year. Average balance 
growth was strong at 9%, with the majority of the growth in term 
deposit  products.  Deposit  margins  decreased  during  the  year, 
impacted by the falling cash rate environment, unfavourable mix 
impacts  as  customers  shifted  to  higher  yielding  products  and 
continued competitive market pressure. 

Other banking income increased 3% due to a decrease in debit 
scheme  interchange  expenses  following  structural  changes  in 
the industry. 
Distribution(1) 

Distribution  income  increased  15%  on  the  prior  year  to  $352 
million. This was driven by strong demand for foreign currency 
and  a  continued  increase  in  product  penetration.  Average 
products  per customer  was  2.83, which  remains the  highest  of 
the major banks(2). 

Operating Expenses  

in 

technology 

Operating expenses for the year were $2,957 million, up 2% on 
the  prior  year.  The  increase  was  primarily  driven  by  continued 
investment 
the  Core  Banking 
Modernisation initiative, the Branch Refurbishment programme, 
as  well  as  staff  and  property  inflationary  pressures.  This  was 
partially offset by efficiency gains achieved through a continued 
focus  on  productivity  and  streamlining  of  business  processes, 
resulting in improved service measures.  

through 

Customer  satisfaction  remained  at  record  levels(3),  with  strong 
performance across all retail channels. 

Expenses  decreased  2%  compared  to  the  prior  half  due  to 
productivity  gains  and  continued 
tight  management  of 
discretionary spend. 

The expense to income ratio was 38.1%, an improvement of 50 
basis points against the prior year. 

This  strong  cost  discipline  allowed  for  continued  investment  in 
key  strategic  projects 
for 
customers.  These  award  winning  online  and  mobile  banking 
services(4)  included  the  release  of  CommBank  Kaching(TM)  and 
continued enhancements to NetBank. 

to  simplify  everyday  banking 

Loan Impairment Expense 

Loan impairment expense for the year ended 30 June 2012 was 
$623 million, an increase of 12% on the prior year.  

This  result  was  driven  by  increased  write-offs  related  to  prior 
year  growth  combined  with  continued  challenging  economic 
conditions.  Personal  loan  growth  remained  strong,  offset  by 
lower  relative  growth  in  home  loans  and  credit  card  portfolios 
and improvements in arrears across all portfolios. 

Loan impairment expense decreased 29% compared to the prior 
half,  due  to  continued  improvements  in  arrears  and  reduced 
provisioning in the home loan portfolio. 

(1)  Distribution  includes  income  associated  with  the  sale  of  foreign  exchange 
products,  and  commissions  received  from  the  distribution  of  business 
banking and wealth management products through the retail network. 

(2)  Roy  Morgan  Research,  Australians  18+,  Average  Banking  and  Finance 
products held at the bank per Banking and Finance customers, 6 months to 
June 2012. Major Banks include the CBA, Westpac, NAB and ANZ. 

(3)  Roy  Morgan  Research.  Australians  14+,  CBA  MFI  Satisfaction  score,  6 

months to June 2012. 

(4) AMBER Awards - “Best Online Bank” and “Best Mobile Banking”.  

 
 
 
 
Retail Banking Services 

(1) Consumer Finance includes personal loans and credit cards. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

19 

ConsumerRetailHome LoansFinance (1)DepositsDistributionTotal$M$M$M$M$MNet interest income2,7031,4242,215-6,342Other banking income1894723973521,410Total banking income2,8921,8962,6123527,752Operating expenses(2,957)Loan impairment expense(623)Net profit before tax4,172Corporate tax expense(1,238)Cash net profit after tax2,934Full Year Ended 30 June 2012ConsumerRetailHome LoansFinance (1)DepositsDistributionTotal$M$M$M$M$MNet interest income2,7061,2812,222-6,209Other banking income1984223873051,312Total banking income2,9041,7032,6093057,521Operating expenses(2,903)Loan impairment expense(558)Net profit before tax4,060Corporate tax expense(1,206)Cash net profit after tax2,854Full Year Ended 30 June 2011ConsumerRetailHome LoansFinance (1)DepositsDistributionTotal$M$M$M$M$MNet interest income1,3317441,078-3,153Other banking income91238200176705Total banking income1,4229821,2781763,858Operating expenses(1,467)Loan impairment expense(258)Net profit before tax2,133Corporate tax expense(638)Cash net profit after tax1,495Half Year Ended 30 June 201230/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsBalance Sheet$M$M$MDec 11 %Jun 11 %Home loans269,543265,244260,58323Consumer finance (1)15,03514,67213,98927Other assets17637201large(12)Total assets284,754279,953274,77324Transaction deposits19,50519,50719,357-1Savings deposits63,31163,70959,127(1)7Investments and other deposits96,74290,17683,951715Deposits not bearing interest3,1363,2443,057(3)3Other liabilities2,7082,4182,92612(7)Total liabilities185,402179,054168,418410As at 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Business and Private Banking 

Financial Performance and Business Review 

related products increased on the prior year. 

Business  and  Private  Banking  achieved  a  cash  net  profit  after 
tax  of  $1,067  million  for  the  year  ended  30  June  2012,  which 
represented a 4% increase on the prior year. The major driver of 
this  result  was  business  banking  income  growth  of  5%,  partly 
offset  by  a  12%  decrease  in  Equities  and  Margin  Lending 
income.  The  result  was  further  strengthened  by  disciplined 
expense management together with lower impairment expense, 
which reflected the sound quality of the portfolio.  

Cash  net  profit  after  tax  decreased  6%  compared  to  the  prior 
half. Banking income was 2% lower with the benefit of effective 
margin  management  being  offset  by  lower  sales  of  risk 
management related products. Income from Equities and Margin 
Lending  decreased  9%  due  to  cautious  investor  sentiment. 
Expenses decreased 1% on the prior half reflecting the benefits 
of productivity initiatives.  

Banking Income 

Net interest income of $2,231 million increased 5% on the prior 
year,  driven  by  solid  growth  in  deposit  balances.  Net  interest 
margin improved as a result of higher lending product margins. 
This  was  partly  offset  by  the  impact  of  intense  competition  for 
deposits.  

Other banking income of $866 million decreased 4% on the prior 
year.  Strong  growth  in  the  sale  of  risk  management  related 
products  and  foreign  exchange  products,  was  offset  by  a 
decrease  in  merchant  acquiring  income  driven  by  structural 
in  consumer  product 
industry  changes  and  changes 
preferences. While equities trading yields were higher, this was 
more than offset by a 24% decrease in average volumes. 

Local Business Banking 

Local Business Banking income increased 5% on the prior year 
to  $850  million.  Deposit  income  increased  10%  reflecting  13% 
growth  in  deposit  balances,  partly  offset  by  lower  deposit 
margins, driven by customer demand for higher yield products. 
Asset  finance  income  increased  24%  due  to  a  6%  increase  in 
balances and higher new business margins. 

Lending  income  increased  5%  on  the  prior  year,  driven  by 
modest  balance  growth  and  higher  new  business  margins. 
Income  from  merchant  acquiring  activities  decreased  18% 
following  structural  changes  in  the  industry  and  a  change  in 
consumer product preferences. 

Private Bank 

Private  Bank  income  increased  1%  on  the  prior  year  to  $251 
million.  Home  lending  balances  increased  5%  with  higher 
funding  costs  impacting  margins.  Advisory  income  increased 
10%, driven  by  a  20% increase  in  funds  under  advice  and the 
benefit of higher advice fees. 

Deposit income was flat with customer demand for higher yield 
deposit products offset by balance growth of 1%.  

Equities and Margin Lending 

Equities  and  Margin  Lending  income  decreased  12%  on  the 
prior  year  to  $362 million. This  was  due to  a 24%  decrease  in 
equities trading  volumes  as markets  were  affected  by cautious 
investor sentiment. CommSec held market share and increased 
yields,  with  a  higher  average  value  per  trade  undertaken, 
despite lower volumes.  

Net  interest  income  increased  1%  on  the  prior  half  driven  by 
modest balance growth, partly offset by lower deposit margins, 
reflecting  customer  demand  for  higher  yield  products,  intense 
competition, and decreasing cash rates. 

Margin  lending  average  balances  decreased  20%  due  to 
customers  deleveraging  and  subdued  investor  appetite  for  this 
product,  reflecting  the  uncertainty  in  equity  markets.  Deposit 
income increased 8% as investors exchanged equities for cash.  

Other  banking  income  decreased  13%  compared  to  the  prior 
half, driven by lower sales of risk management related products. 
Equities  trading  income  was  also  lower  with  average  volumes 
declining 18% compared to the prior half. 

Corporate Financial Services 

Corporate Financial Services income increased 10% on the prior 
year  to  $1,086  million.  Lending  income  increased  17%  on  the 
prior  year,  driven  by  10%  growth  in  balances  reflecting 
continued customer demand for market rate linked products and 
higher new business margins. 

Deposit  income  increased  4%  on  the  prior  year  reflecting  7% 
growth  in  balances  offset  by  declining  margins  which  were 
impacted  by  strong  competition  for  deposits  and  customer 
demand  for  higher  yield  products.  Interest  and  exchange  rate 
volatility resulted in strong demand for risk management related 
products with revenue increasing significantly on the prior year. 

Regional and Agribusiness Banking 

Regional  and  Agribusiness  Banking  income  increased  9%  on 
the prior year to $489 million. Lending income increased 10% on 
the prior year, including modest growth in balances and higher 
new business margins. 

Deposit income increased 5% driven by balance growth of 11%, 
partly  offset  by  lower  margins  due  to  customer  demand  for 
higher yield products. Income from the sale of risk management

Operating Expenses 

Operating expenses of $1,344 million increased 1% on the prior 
year as a result of disciplined expense management. The focus 
on productivity initiatives, including call centre consolidation and 
the  wind-down  of the  receivables finance  business,  assisted  in 
containing cost growth. This was offset by salary related inflation 
and higher volume related expenses due to strong sales of risk 
management related products. 

Operating  expenses  decreased 1% compared to the prior  half, 
reflecting the realisation of productivity initiatives. Lower volume 
related expenses  were partly  offset  by continued  investment in 
the business, including Core Banking Modernisation which has 
enhanced customer experience through the benefits of real time 
banking and everyday settlement. 

Loan Impairment Expense 

Loan  impairment  expense  of  $227  million  decreased  13%  on 
prior  year,  supported  by  the  strong  underlying  quality  of  the 
business lending portfolio. 

Loan impairment expense increased 6% on the prior half due to 
lower write backs compared to the prior half. 

Loan  impairment  expense  as a  percentage  of  gross  loans  and 
acceptances decreased by five basis points on the prior year to 
28 basis points. 

20 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
Business and Private Banking 

(1) Comparative information has been restated for the impact of resegmentation and the reallocation of bank bill facility fee income from Other banking income to Net 

interest income to conform with presentation in the current period. 

(2) Comparative information has been restated to include Bank acceptances of customers to conform with presentation in the current period (30 June 2012: $9.1 billion; 

31 December 2011: $9.9 billion; 30 June 2011: $9.8 billion). 

(3) Other assets include intangible assets, and Other non-interest bearing liabilities include non-interest bearing deposits. 

(4) Debt issues include Bank acceptances. 

(5) Includes deposits relating to Institutional Banking and Markets as well as Business and Private Banking customers. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

21 

CorporateRegional &LocalEquities &FinancialAgri-BusinessPrivateMarginServicesbusinessBankingBankLendingOtherTotal$M$M$M$M$M$M$MNet interest income819397611187168492,231Other banking income267922396419410866Total banking income1,086489850251362593,097Operating expenses(1,344)Loan impairment expense(227)Net profit before tax1,526Corporate tax expense(459)Cash net profit after tax1,067Full Year Ended 30 June 2012CorporateRegional &LocalEquities &FinancialAgri-BusinessPrivateMarginServicesbusinessBankingBankLendingOtherTotal$M$M$M$M$M$M$MNet interest income760373580186179562,134Other banking income224752336323476905Total banking income9844488132494131323,039Operating expenses(1,335)Loan impairment expense(261)Net profit before tax1,443Corporate tax expense(413)Cash net profit after tax1,030Full Year Ended 30 June 2011 (1)CorporateRegional &LocalEquities &FinancialAgri-BusinessPrivateMarginServicesbusinessBankingBankLendingOtherTotal$M$M$M$M$M $M$MNet interest income4152013089284211,121Other banking income1184211631889404Total banking income533243424123172301,525Operating expenses(669)Loan impairment expense(117)Net profit before tax739Corporate tax expense(223)Cash net profit after tax516Half Year Ended 30 June 201230/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsBalance Sheet$M$M$MDec 11 %Jun 11 %Interest earning lending assets (excluding margin loans) (2)78,02978,21677,545-1Non-lending interest earning assets365462480(21)(24)Margin loans3,2873,5464,213(7)(22)Other assets (3)47626169082(31)Total assets82,15782,48582,928-(1)Transaction deposits51,97351,38249,30915Savings deposits5,6695,8885,720(4)(1)Investments deposits41,46841,84641,650(1)-Certificates of deposit and other416057(32)(28)Due to other financial institutions1,042449403largelargeDebt issues (4)9,0709,9289,808(9)(8)Other non-interest bearing liabilities (3)5,7385,7836,341(1)(10)Total liabilities (5)115,001115,336113,288-2As at 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Institutional Banking and Markets  

the Equity and Advisory Solutions Group benefitted from a gain 
on the sale of an equity investment in a domestic school and a 
UK hospital Public Private Partnership (PPP).  

Markets 

Net  interest  income  increased  8%  on  the  prior  year  to  $237 
million  primarily  due  to  strong  offshore  performance  in  the 
interest rates business. 

Other banking income decreased 65% on the prior year to $136 
million  due  to  the  adverse  market  conditions  arising  from  the 
downgrade of the US sovereign credit rating in the first quarter 
and ongoing European sovereign debt concerns. In addition, the 
decrease in income was significantly impacted by unfavourable 
counterparty fair value adjustments  of $121 million for the year 
ended  30  June  2012  compared  to  the  favourable  counterparty 
adjustment  in  the  prior  year  of  $94  million.  This  impact  was 
primarily as a result of the falling interest rate environment and 
widening credit spreads. 

The  weaker  trading  outcome  was  partly  offset  by  a  strong 
performance in sales of Markets products, particularly in interest 
rates and foreign exchange hedging.  

Operating Expenses 

Operating  expenses  increased  3%  on  the  prior  year  to  $851 
million.  Excluding  the  impact  of  higher  depreciation  expenses 
related  to  growth  in  the  Asset  Leasing  business,  operating 
expenses increased 2%. 

The business continued to invest in a number of focused areas, 
including  Transaction  Banking  initiatives,  to  enhance  customer 
service, as well as the Group‟s foreign exchange platform which 
has  contributed  to  a  32%  increase  in  foreign  exchange  sales 
volumes compared to the prior year. 

Expenses  were  in  line  with  the  prior  half  as  increased 
depreciation  costs  related  to  growth  in  the  Asset  Leasing 
business,  and  investment  in  technology  were  offset  by  a 
disciplined approach to cost management across the business. 

Investment in people both domestically and offshore  underpins 
the strategy to deliver Total Capital Solutions to clients. 

Loan Impairment Expense 

Loan impairment expense of $153 million was 53% lower than 
the  prior  year,  driven  by  a  decrease  in  new  single  name 
exposures. 

Loan  impairment  expense  increased  $87  million  on  the  prior 
half, largely driven by a small number of impaired assets. 

The overall credit rating of the Institutional lending portfolio has 
remained stable. 

Corporate Tax Expense 

The  corporate  tax  expense  for  the  year  ended  30 June  2012 
was $282 million. The effective tax rate of 21% is lower than the 
prior  year  and  benefitted  from  a  higher  proportion  of  profit 
generated in offshore jurisdictions that have lower corporate tax 
rates. 

Financial Performance and Business Review 

Institutional Banking and Markets achieved a cash net profit after 
tax  of  $1,060  million  for  the  year  ended  30  June  2012,  which 
represented  a  6%  increase  on  the  prior  year.  The  result  was 
driven  by  improved  momentum  in  lending  balance  growth, 
transactional  banking  deposit  volume  growth  and  lower  loan 
impairment  expense.  This  was  partly  offset  by  weaker 
performance  in  the  trading  book,  which  was  significantly 
impacted by unfavourable counterparty fair value adjustments.  

Cash  net  profit  after  tax  decreased  6%  on  the  prior  half.  The 
decrease  was  driven  by  unfavourable  counterparty  fair  value 
adjustments  and  higher  impairment  expense  as  individually 
assessed  provisions  increased.  This  was  partly  offset  by  an 
increase in fees from the Asset Leasing business and growth in 
lending balances. 

Banking Income 

Net  interest  income  increased  6%  on  the  prior  year  to  $1,409 
million. This increase was driven by growth in lending assets, a 
strong  performance  in  the  offshore  Markets  business,  solid 
Asset  Leasing  balance  growth  in  the  UK  and  higher  deposit 
volumes from transactional banking customers. This was partly 
offset  by  lower  deferred  fees  recognised  from  the  early 
repayment of debt facilities. 

Other banking income was $937 million, a decrease of 18% on 
the  prior  year.  This  result  was 
impacted  by  a  weaker 
performance in the trading book, particularly in the first quarter, 
fair  value 
and 
adjustments. This was partly offset by an increase in lending and 
leasing  fees,  and  strong  growth  in  customer  activity  in  the 
Markets business. 

impact  of  counterparty 

the  unfavourable 

Net  interest  income  was  slightly  up  on  the  prior  half  due  to 
lending  asset  growth  partly  offset  by  the  impact  of  higher 
wholesale funding costs. 

Other banking income increased 4% on the prior half, driven by 
increased fees from the Asset Leasing and Institutional Lending 
businesses  as  a  result  of  higher  deal  flow  and  lending  growth. 
This was partly offset by weaker Markets income, including the 
unfavourable impact of widening credit spreads on counterparty 
fair value adjustments. 

Institutional Banking 

Net  interest  income  increased  5%  on  the  prior  year  to  $1,172 
million  due  to  strong  momentum  in  lending  growth  with 
Institutional  Banking  balances  increasing  19%  since  30  June 
2011.  Balance  growth  was  generated  from  a  diverse  range  of 
industries,  with  particular  success  in  the  investment  grade 
commercial  property  and  natural  resources  sectors.  The  Asset 
Leasing business also experienced solid offshore loan growth. 

Additionally,  deposit  volumes  increased  5%  driven  by  a  strong 
focus on new and existing Transaction Banking customers. 

Other  banking  income increased  7%  on the  prior  year to  $801 
million  driven  by  solid  progress  in  the  Asset  Leasing  business 
and  growth  in  fees  as  lending  volumes  increased.  In  addition, 

22 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
Institutional Banking and Markets 

 (1) Comparative information has been restated for the impact of resegmentation and the reallocation of bank bill facility fee income from Other banking income to Net 

interest income to conform with presentation in the current period. 

(2) Comparative information has been restated to include Bank acceptances of customers to conform with presentation in the current period (30 June 2012: $0.6 billion; 

31 December 2011: $0.8 billion; 30 June 2011: $0.9 billion). 

(3) Other assets include intangible assets and derivative assets, and Other non-interest bearing liabilities include derivative liabilities. 

(4) Debt issues include Bank acceptances. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

23 

InstitutionalBankingMarketsTotal$M$M$MNet interest income1,1722371,409Other banking income801136937Total banking income1,9733732,346Operating expenses(851)Loan impairment expense(153)Net profit before tax1,342Corporate tax expense(282)Cash net profit after tax1,060Full Year Ended 30 June 2012InstitutionalBankingMarketsTotal$M$M$MNet interest income1,1122191,331Other banking income7483881,136Total banking income1,8606072,467Operating expenses(828)Loan impairment expense(324)Net profit before tax1,315Corporate tax expense(311)Cash net profit after tax1,004Full Year Ended 30 June 2011 (1)InstitutionalBankingMarketsTotal$M$M$MNet interest income589116705Other banking income41463477Total banking income1,0031791,182Operating expenses(426)Loan impairment expense(120)Net profit before tax636Corporate tax expense(123)Cash net profit after tax513Half Year Ended 30 June 201230/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsBalance Sheet$M$M$MDec 11 %Jun 11 %Interest earning lending assets (2)56,46653,06749,022615Non-lending interest earning assets34,26733,61432,66425Other assets (3)35,46334,47430,342317Total assets126,196121,155112,028413Certificates of deposit and other12,44011,2978,2411051Investments deposits12,20010,1776,9822075Due to other financial institutions15,85614,06013,4571318Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement2,7545,2454,234(47)(35)Debt issues (4)1,4872,8254,415(47)(66)Loan capital56455654414Other non-interest bearing liabilities (3)29,36128,81525,758214Total liabilities74,66272,97563,631217As at 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wealth Management 

Financial Performance and Business Review 

Cash net profit after tax for the year  ended 30 June 2012  was 
$569 million,  which  represented  an  11%  decrease  on the  prior 
year.  The  result  reflects  continued  weakness 
in  global 
investment markets, which was partly offset by a solid insurance 
performance. 

The  funds  businesses  delivered  a  resilient  result  with  Funds 
under  Administration  up  2%  to  $193  billion,  despite  significant 
pressure  on  investment  markets.  Market  conditions  resulted  in 
strong  investor  flows  weighted  towards  less  volatile  asset 
classes,  reflecting  low  investor  risk  appetite.  The  insurance 
businesses  experienced  inforce  premium  growth  of  20%  to 
$1,971  million,  benefitting  from  new  business  and  improved 
cross-sell in aligned retail channels.  

The  business  continued  to  invest  in  growth  and  productivity 
initiatives. These included the expansion of global and domestic 
fund management capabilities and distribution, the acquisition of 
Count Financial Limited (Count Financial) and improvements to 
insurance claims processing. In addition, the business continues 
to prepare for regulatory change. 

CFS Global Asset Management (CFSGAM) 

Underlying profit after tax was $234 million, a 15% decrease on 
the  prior  year.  The  result  reflects  slightly  lower  Funds  under 
Management (FUM) and continued investment to support global 
growth initiatives across the US, Europe and Australasia.  

FUM as at 30 June 2012 was $146 billion, down 2% on the prior 
year,  reflecting  the  uncertainty  in  global  equity  markets.  This 
performance compared favourably with the ASX 200 and MSCI 
Emerging  Markets(1) 
fell  11%  and  14% 
indices,  which 
respectively over the same period. 

funds 
Investment  performance  was  sound  with  67%  of 
outperforming investment benchmarks over a three year period. 
However,  persistent  uncertainty in the global  economic  outlook 
continued  to  shift  investor  preference  towards  cash  and  fixed 
interest  products  over  equities,  now  representing  73%  of  total 
inflows  (30  June  2011:  64%).  During  the  year,  the  business 
continued  to  diversify  and  expanded  its  footprint  globally, 
opening  offices  in  Paris,  Frankfurt  and  New  York,  with  55%  of 
revenue  now  sourced  offshore.  Despite  the  global  economic 
conditions,  Global  Equities  FUM  was  resilient  and  the  newly 
formed Emerging Markets Debt team sourced over $500 million 
in Funds under Management in its first nine months.  

Cash net profit after tax of $245 million represented a decrease 
of 13% on the prior year. 

Cash  net  profit  after  tax  in  the  second  half  decreased  9%  to 
$117  million  reflecting  lower  performance  fees  partly  offset  by 
disciplined expense management. 

Colonial First State (CFS) 

Underlying profit after tax was $106 million, a 25% decrease on 
the prior year. The result reflects continued weakness in market 
conditions, increased compliance related costs and remediation 
expenses. 

The  CFS 
flagship  platforms  FirstChoice  and  FirstWrap 
continued to grow market share, attracting 34% share of market 
net  flows(2).  FirstChoice  retained  the  position  of  the  largest 
platform  and  increased  its  market  share  to  11.6%(2)  as  at  31 
March  2012.  Equity  market  weakness  contributed  to  strong 
investment flows into cash, fixed interest and deposit products. 

The  acquisition  and  integration  of  Count  Financial  resulted  in 

24 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

CFS  expanding  its  distribution  footprint  to  become  the  second 
largest adviser network in the market(3).  

Cash net profit after tax of $119 million represented a decrease 
of 17% on the prior year. 

Cash net profit after tax in the second half was up  98% to $79 
million.  The  result  reflects  lower  restitution  costs  and  an 
increased contribution from Count Financial. 

CommInsure 

Underlying profit after tax  was $246 million, a 3% decrease on 
the  prior  year.  The  business  achieved  strong  inforce  premium 
growth  across  all  insurance  lines  of  business,  reflected  in 
insurance income growth of 11%. However, this was partly offset 
by the impact of the run-off of the closed investment portfolios.  

Retail Life Insurance results were mixed, with premium income 
up 11% on the prior year. Inforce premiums as at 30 June 2012 
were $815 million, up 10% on the prior year, supported by solid 
sales  from  Bank  channels,  with  overall  sales  growing  by  21%. 
However,  in  the  current  economic  environment,  the  industry 
continued to see deterioration in claims experience as well as an 
increase in lapses. 

The Wholesale Life Insurance business generated strong inforce 
premiums growth of 41%, mainly due to the acquisition of new 
business and solid organic growth in existing business.  

General  Insurance  income  benefitted  from  lower  event  claims 
and strong inforce premium growth of 16%. During the year, the 
motor claims handling process was successfully integrated into 
CommInsure claims management.  

Funds  management  income  declined  23%  to  $160  million, 
reflecting the managed contraction  of  the  closed  portfolios  and 
constrained growth in open business due to uncertain markets. 

Cash net profit after tax of $299 million represented a decrease 
of 2% on the prior year. 

Cash  net  profit  after  tax  in  the  second  half  decreased  2%  to 
$148  million  mainly  due  to  poor  Life  claims  experience  partly 
offset by improved returns on shareholder capital. 

Operating Expenses 

Operating  expenses  increased  7%  on  the  prior  year  to  $1,369 
million.  This  reflects  organic  offshore  growth  in  CFSGAM, 
preparation for regulatory changes and the acquisition of Count 
Financial.  Employee  numbers  increased  on  the  prior  year  as 
distribution investment gained momentum.  

Productivity and process excellence remained a key focus with a 
systematic  roll  out  of  programmes.  These initiatives  resulted  in 
productivity  improvements  across  call  centres  and  operations, 
providing better customer experience and turnaround times. 

Operating  expenses  increased  1%  compared  to  the  prior  half, 
reflecting disciplined expense management.  

Investment Experience 

Investment Experience after tax increased 26% on the prior year 
to $77 million, reflecting improved returns on shareholder capital 
partly offset by unfavourable mark to market revaluations on the 
Guaranteed Annuity portfolio. 

Investment  Experience  after  tax  increased  by  $54  million 
compared  to  the  prior  half  due  to  favourable  mark  to  market 
revaluations on the Guaranteed Annuity portfolio. 

(1) MSCI Emerging Markets Index (AUD). 

(2) Plan for Life quarterly release. 

(3) March 2012 Rainmaker quarterly release. 

 
 
Wealth Management 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

25 

Colonial CFSGAMFirst StateCommInsureOtherTotal$M$M$M$M$MFunds management income883845160-1,888Insurance income--691-691Total operating income883845851-2,579Volume expenses(140)(192)(208)-(540)Net operating income743653643-2,039Operating expenses(439)(505)(292)(133)(1,369)Net profit before tax304148351(133)670Corporate tax expense(70)(42)(105)39(178)Underlying profit after tax234106246(94)492Investment experience after tax111353-77Cash net profit after tax245119299(94)569Full Year Ended 30 June 2012Colonial CFSGAM First State CommInsure Other Total $M $M $M $M $M Funds management income907860209(1)1,975Insurance income--625-625Total operating income907860834(1)2,600Volume expenses(151)(171)(199)-(521)Net operating income756689635(1)2,079Operating expenses(391)(489)(276)(124)(1,280)Net profit before tax365200359(125)799Corporate tax expense(90)(59)(105)36(218)Underlying profit after tax275141254(89)581Investment experience after tax6251261Cash net profit after tax281143305(87)642Full Year Ended 30 June 2011Colonial CFSGAM First State CommInsure Other Total $M $M $M $M $M Funds management income43543177-943Insurance income--3252327Total operating income43543140221,270Volume expenses(71)(74)(102)(1)(248)Net operating income36435730011,022Operating expenses(215)(254)(149)(71)(689)Net profit before tax149103151(70)333Corporate tax expense(38)(29)(45)22(90)Underlying profit after tax11174106(48)243Investment experience after tax6542154Cash net profit after tax11779148(47)297Half Year Ended 30 June 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wealth Management 

(1) FUM & FUA do not include the Group's interest in the China Cinda JV. 

(2) This asset class includes wholesale and listed property trusts as well as indirect listed property securities funds which are traded through the ASX. 

(3) The St. Andrew‟s insurance business was sold effective 1 July 2010. 

26 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vsSummary$M$MJun 11 %$M$MDec 11 %Funds under administration - average (1)189,699188,866-192,325186,2663Funds under administration - spot (1)192,781188,5112192,781184,0455Funds under management - average (1)146,742150,396(2)147,412145,3851Funds under management - spot (1)146,220148,639(2)146,220141,9303Retail Net funds flows (Australian Retail)194(349)large703(509)largeHalf Year EndedFull Year Ended30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vsFunds Under Management (FUM) (1)$M$MJun 11 %$M$MDec 11 %Australian equities18,36622,336(18)18,36618,391-Global equities50,00350,860(2)50,00347,9554Cash and fixed interest54,24250,946654,24251,8495Property and Infrastructure (2)23,60924,497(4)23,60923,735(1)Total146,220148,639(2)146,220141,9303Full Year EndedHalf Year Ended30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vsSources of Profit from CommInsure$M$MJun 11 %$M$MDec 11 %Life insurance operating marginsPlanned profit margins1701644898110Experience variations(46)(36)28(42)(4)largeFunds management operating margins89112(21)4445(2)General insurance operating margins3314large1518(17)Operating margins246254(3)106140(24)Investment experience after tax535144211largeCash net profit after tax299305(2)148151(2)Full Year EndedHalf Year EndedOpeningClosingBalanceSales/NewBalance30/06/11BusinessLapsesOther30/06/12Annual Inforce Premiums - Risk Business$M$M$M$M$M Retail life743216(144)-815Wholesale life461263(73)-651General insurance436120(51)-505Total1,640599(268)-1,971Full Year Ended 30 June 2012OpeningClosingBalanceSales/NewBalance30/06/10BusinessLapsesOther30/06/11Annual Inforce Premiums - Risk Business$M$M$M$M$MRetail life677178(112)-743Wholesale life 42897(64)-461General insurance408100(72)-436Sub-total1,513375(248)-1,640St Andrew's Insurance (3)71--(71)-Total1,584375(248)(71)1,640Full Year Ended 30 June 2011OpeningClosingBalanceSales/NewBalance31/12/11BusinessLapsesOther30/06/12Annual Inforce Premiums - Risk Business$M$M$M$M$MRetail life781108(74)-815Wholesale life 558130(37)-651General insurance46862(25)-505Total1,807300(136)-1,971Half Year Ended 30 June 2012 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
Wealth Management 

(1) Custom Solutions includes the FirstWrap product. 

(2) Includes cash management trusts. 

(3) Retail Funds that align to Plan for Life market share releases. 

(4) Includes regular premium plans. These retail products are not reported in market share data. 

(5) Includes life company assets sourced from retail investors but not attributable to a funds management product. 

(6) Includes foreign exchange gains and losses from translation of internationally sourced business. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

27 

OpeningInvestmentClosingBalanceIncome &Balance30/06/11InflowsOutflowsNet FlowsOther (6)30/06/12Funds Under Administration$M$M$M$M$M$MFirstChoice49,11813,955(12,272)1,683(787)50,014Custom Solutions (1)7,4364,410(2,739)1,671(26)9,081Standalone (including Legacy) (2)20,6402,686(5,743)(3,057)(315)17,268Retail products (3)77,19421,051(20,754)297(1,128)76,363Other retail (4)1,10535(138)(103)(1)1,001Australian retail78,29921,086(20,892)194(1,129)77,364Wholesale39,62422,752(19,641)3,11170843,443Property18,908187(311)(124)(90)18,694Other (5)3,08329(140)(111)4603,432Domestically sourced139,91444,054(40,984)3,070(51)142,933Internationally sourced48,5979,460(8,294)1,1668549,848Total Wealth Management188,51153,514(49,278)4,23634192,781Full Year Ended 30 June 2012OpeningInvestmentClosingBalanceIncome &Balance30/06/10InflowsOutflowsNet FlowsOther (6)30/06/11Funds Under Administration$M$M$M$M$M$MFirstChoice43,64013,690(11,194)2,4962,98249,118Custom Solutions (1)6,1142,496(1,599)8974257,436Standalone (including Legacy) (2)22,9423,589(7,210)(3,621)1,31920,640Retail products (3)72,69619,775(20,003)(228)4,72677,194Other retail (4)1,15339(160)(121)731,105Australian retail73,84919,814(20,163)(349)4,79978,299Wholesale41,05018,658(23,069)(4,411)2,98539,624Property17,1671,948(352)1,59614518,908Other (5)3,03333(156)(123)1733,083Domestically sourced135,09940,453(43,740)(3,287)8,102139,914Internationally sourced44,51512,857(9,462)3,39568748,597Total Wealth Management179,61453,310(53,202)1088,789188,511Full Year Ended 30 June 2011OpeningInvestmentClosingBalanceIncome &Balance31/12/11InflowsOutflowsNet FlowsOther (6)30/06/12Funds Under Administration$M$M$M$M$M$MFirstChoice47,5396,811(6,070)7411,73450,014Custom Solutions (1)7,9102,294(1,330)9642079,081Standalone (including Legacy) (2)17,7581,350(2,307)(957)46717,268Retail products (3)73,20710,455(9,707)7482,40876,363Other retail (4)1,01819(64)(45)281,001Australian retail74,22510,474(9,771)7032,43677,364Wholesale40,6609,815(8,249)1,5661,21743,443Property19,0264(173)(169)(163)18,694Other (5)3,25514(61)(47)2243,432Domestically sourced137,16620,307(18,254)2,0533,714142,933Internationally sourced46,8794,471(4,536)(65)3,03449,848Total Wealth Management184,04524,778(22,790)1,9886,748192,781Half Year Ended 30 June 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
New Zealand 

Financial Performance and Business Review 

New Zealand(1) cash net profit after tax(2) for the year ended 30 
June 2012 was NZ$638 million, which represented an increase 
of  9%  on  the  prior  year.  The  result  was  driven  by  a  solid 
interest  margin 
performance 
improvement  and  lower  loan  impairment  expense.  This  was 
partly  offset  by  a  lower  contribution  from  Sovereign  due  to  the 
impact of unfavourable actuarial policy liability valuations. 

from  ASB  Bank  with  net 

Cash net profit after tax(2) decreased 10% to NZ$302 million on 
the  prior  half  due  to  higher  operating  and  loan  impairment 
expenses together with the impact of unfavourable policy liability 
valuations. 

ASB Bank 

ASB Bank cash net profit after tax(2) for the year ended 30 June 
2012  was  NZ$580  million,  up  15%  on  the  prior  year,  primarily 
driven  by  an  improved  net  interest  margin  and  lower  loan 
impairment expense. 

Cash  net  profit  after  tax(2)  was  down  8%  on  the  prior  half  with 
higher net interest income offset by higher loan impairment and 
operating expenses. 

Banking Income 

Net interest income was NZ$1,223 million, an increase of  10% 
on the prior year benefitting from fixed rate loan repricing and a 
shift  in  customer  preference  to  higher  margin  variable  loans. 
Wholesale  funding  costs  continued  to  increase  as  a  result  of 
global market uncertainty, with retail deposit margins remaining 
flat. Volume growth in customer deposits was solid, with lending 
growth subdued in a low credit growth environment. 

Other  banking  income  was  NZ$323  million,  down  12%  on  the 
prior  year.  This  included  lower  trading  income  and  lower 
transaction and lending fees, which were partly offset by a focus 
on  bancassurance  sales  with  an  increase  in  income  over  the 
prior year. 

Home Loans 

Home loan balances of NZ$37 billion remained flat on the prior 
year  reflecting  the  low  credit  growth  environment.  Home  loan 
margins  have  benefitted  from  the  repricing  of  fixed  rate  loans 
and the shift  from fixed  rate  to  variable  rate  loans.  The shift to 
variable rate loans subsided in recent months with both existing 
and  new  customers  taking  up  fixed  rate  loans  in  a  greater 
proportion.  The  proportion  of  the  portfolio  which  was  variable 
rate  in  nature  at  30 June 2012  was  63%  (31  December  2011: 
63%; 30 June 2011: 59%). 

continued focus on profitable deposit growth notwithstanding the 
highly  competitive  market.  The  portfolio  mix  change,  as 
customers  move 
towards  higher  yielding  products,  has 
unfavourably impacted margins. 

Operating Expenses 

Operating expenses for the full year ended 30 June 2012 were 
NZ$743  million,  up  1%  on  the  prior  year.  The  increase  was 
attributable  to  business  restructuring,  together  with  inflation 
related  staff  and  property  expenses.  Strategic  initiatives  to 
improve  customer  experience  have  delivered  efficiency 
improvements,  including  further  customer  migration  to  online 
statements and smartphone payment applications. The expense 
to income ratio was 46.6%, down 140 basis points on the prior 
year.  

Operating  expenses  increased  9%  on  the  prior  half  driven  by 
higher systems, marketing and business restructuring costs.  

Loan Impairment Expense 

from 

Loan impairment expense for the year ended 30 June 2012 was 
NZ$47 million, a decrease of 35% on the prior year. This result 
benefitted 
the  Christchurch 
the  non-recurrence  of 
Earthquake  provision  raised  in  the  prior  year,  as  arrears  and 
hardship  levels  in  Christchurch  improved.  In  addition,  arrears 
rates across the rest of the Retail portfolio were relatively stable, 
with a slight improvement in 90+ day arrears rates. 

Loan impairment expense increased NZ$19 million on the prior 
half.  The  first  half  benefitted  from  improvement  in  the  Rural 
portfolio, with lending portfolios stabilising in the second half. 

Sovereign  

impacted  by  unfavourable  actuarial  policy 

Cash net profit after tax(2) for the year ended 30 June 2012 was 
NZ$52 million, down 40% on the prior year. The decline in profit 
liability 
was 
valuations,  including  a  decrease  in  New  Zealand  Government 
bond  rates.  Business  performance  was  sound,  including  solid 
inforce premium growth, partly offset by an associated increase 
in commission expense. 

Cash net profit after tax(2) was down 67% on the prior half, also 
impacted by unfavourable actuarial policy liability valuations. 

Insurance Income 

Insurance  income  of  NZ$274  million  was  up  7%  on  the  prior 
year with favourable claims experience, strong persistency and 
inforce premium growth of 7%. The inforce premium growth was 
driven by a solid increase in new business and improved lapse 
rates. 

Business Loans 

Operating Expenses 

Business  loan  balances  increased  4%  on  the  prior  year  to 
NZ$15  billion, driven by solid  growth  in  lending  volumes in the 
second  half  of the  year.  Margins  improved  to more  normalised 
levels as low margin fixed rate loans have repriced. 

Customer Deposits 

Customer deposit balances of NZ$37 billion have increased 4% 
on  the  prior  year,  outpacing  lending  growth,  and  reflecting 
customer  demand  for  low  risk  investments.  There  has  been  a

Operating expenses of NZ$229 million were up 5% on the prior 
year, driven by increased renewal commission expense due to 
growth  in  inforce  premiums.  Excluding  commission  expenses, 
operating  expenses  were  up  2%  on  the  prior  year  reflecting 
disciplined expense management. 

(1)  The  New  Zealand  result incorporates ASB  Bank  and  Sovereign  Insurance 
businesses. The CBA Branch results relating to the Institutional Banking and 
Markets business in New Zealand are not included. 

(2) Includes allocated capital charges and other CBA costs. 

28 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
New Zealand 

(1) Other includes ASB and Sovereign funding entities and elimination entries between Sovereign and ASB. 

(2) Total Other banking income disclosed in AUD includes realised gains or losses associated with the hedge of the New Zealand operations. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

29 

ASBSovereignOther (1)TotalTotalNZ$MNZ$MNZ$MNZ$MA$MNet interest income1,223-(13)1,210944Other banking income (2)323-(36)287214Total banking income1,546-(49)1,4971,158Funds management income50-75744Insurance income-27418292227Total operating income1,596274(24)1,8461,429Operating expenses(743)(229)40(932)(727)Loan impairment expense(47)--(47)(37)Net profit before tax8064516867665Corporate tax expense(226)18(1)(209)(159)Underlying profit after tax5806315658506Investment experience after tax-(11)(9)(20)(16)Cash net profit after tax580526638490Full Year Ended 30 June 2012ASBSovereignOther (1)TotalTotalNZ$MNZ$MNZ$MNZ$MA$MNet interest income1,107-(10)1,097840Other banking income (2)367-(30)337286Total banking income1,474-(40)1,4341,126Funds management income54-(2)5240Insurance income-25719276211Total operating income1,528257(23)1,7621,377Operating expenses(733)(218)32(919)(704)Loan impairment expense(72)--(72)(54)Net profit before tax723399771619Corporate tax expense(219)34-(185)(150)Underlying profit after tax504739586469Investment experience after tax-13(11)21Cash net profit after tax50486(2)588470Full Year Ended 30 June 2011ASBSovereignOther (1)TotalTotalNZ$MNZ$MNZ$MNZ$MA$MNet interest income621-(5)616481Other banking income (2)162-(19)143106Total banking income783-(24)759587Funds management income26-43023Insurance income-1348142111Total operating income809134(12)931721Operating expenses(388)(116)28(476)(372)Loan impairment expense(33)--(33)(26)Net profit before tax3881816422323Corporate tax expense(110)5(1)(106)(80)Underlying profit after tax2782315316243Investment experience after tax-(10)(4)(14)(11)Cash net profit after tax2781311302232Half Year Ended 30 June 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
New Zealand  

(1) Customer deposits including all interest bearing deposits carried at amortised cost or as liabilities at fair value through Income Statement.  

(2) Includes NZ$6.3 billion due to Group companies (31 December 2011: NZ$6.3 billion; 30 June 2011: NZ$6.3 billion). 

30 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

30/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsBalance SheetNZ$MNZ$MNZ$MDec 11 %Jun 11 %Home lending37,41037,38237,444--Assets at fair value through Income Statement2,2002,5604,165(14)(47)Other lending assets15,80815,33215,14834Non-lending interest earning assets4,8417,3364,003(34)21Other assets5,3805,1004,597517Total assets65,63967,71065,357(3)-Customer deposits (1) 36,69636,55235,117-4Debt issues6,3096,6546,910(5)(9)Other interest bearing liabilities (2) 11,13912,89311,484(14)(3)Non-interest bearing liabilities6,0996,4396,673(5)(9)Total liabilities60,24362,53860,184(4)-AssetsASB Bank63,39265,45163,050(3)1Other2,2472,2592,307(1)(3)Total assets65,63967,71065,357(3)-LiabilitiesASB Bank59,20661,43059,103(4)-Other1,0371,1081,081(6)(4)Total liabilities60,24362,53860,184(4)-As atSources of Profit from30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vsInsurance ActivitiesNZ$MNZ$MJun 11 %NZ$MNZ$MDec 11 %The Margin on Services profit from ordinaryactivities after income tax is represented by:Planned profit margins605833030-Experience variations315(80)(7)10largeOperating margins6373(14)2340(43)Investment experience after tax(11)13large(10)(1)largeCash net profit after tax5286(40)1339(67)Full Year EndedHalf Year EndedNew Zealand - Funds Under30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vsAdministrationNZ$MNZ$MJun 11 %NZ$MNZ$MDec 11 %Opening balance10,4078,7711910,67910,4073Inflows2,4772,528(2)1,3141,16313Outflows(1,627)(1,529)6(875)(752)16Net Flows850999(15)4394117Investment income & other120637(81)259(139)largeClosing balance11,37710,407911,37710,6797Full Year EndedHalf Year EndedNew Zealand - Annual Inforce30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vsPremiumsNZ$MNZ$MJun 11 %NZ$MNZ$MDec 11 %Opening balance58455456045843Sales/New business9887134850(4)Lapses(58)(55)5(29)(29)-Other movements(1)(2)(50)-(1)(100)Closing balance62358476236043Full Year EndedHalf Year Ended 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
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Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

31 

 
 
 
Bankwest 

Financial Performance and Business Review 

Bankwest  cash  net  profit  after  tax  for  the  year  ended  30  June 
2012 was $524 million, up 13% on the prior year. The result was 
driven by a 1% increase in banking income due to strong home 
in  operating  expenses 
lending  growth,  a  2%  decrease 
benefitting  from  productivity  initiatives,  and  a  44%  decrease  in 
loan  impairment  expense  supported  by  improved  business 
lending credit quality. 

Cash  net  profit  after tax  for  the  half  year  ended  30 June  2012 
decreased 4% compared to the prior half. This result was mainly 
due to a 4% decrease in income reflecting increased wholesale 
funding costs and lower deposits margins. 

Banking Income 

Net interest income of $1,457 million increased 3% compared to 
the  prior  year.  This  was  mainly  driven  by  above  system  home 
loan  volume  growth  despite 
the  subdued  credit  growth 
environment and competitive market. 

Other banking income of $207 million decreased 6% compared 
to  the  prior  year  due  to  customer  preference  for  low  fee 
accounts,  lower  new  business  volumes  and  the  impact  of 
unfavourable counterparty fair value adjustments. 

Business loan margins were flat compared to the prior year but 
decreased  compared  to  the  prior  half  due  to  higher  funding 
costs. 

Customer Deposits 

Solid growth in deposit balances reflected customer preferences 
for  lower  risk  investments  as  a  result  of  uncertainty  driven  by 
ongoing global market volatility. 

Retail  deposit  balances  increased to  $17  billion,  up 7%  on  the 
prior  year.  Margins  decreased  as  a  result  of  both  increased 
competition and lower cash rates. 

Business  deposit  balances  increased  5%  on  the  prior  year  to 
$28  billion,  mainly  as  a  result  of  growth  in  money  market  and 
term deposits. Margins decreased driven by strong competition, 
particularly for money market deposits. 

Operating Expenses 

Operating expenses of $852 million decreased 2% on the prior 
year  reflecting  lower  staff  costs.  This  was  the  result  of 
productivity gains from business wide efficiency initiatives which 
included a new call centre model and the consolidation of loan 
processing  functions  to  a  single  area.  Lower  staff  costs  were 
partly offset by higher home loan volume related expenses. 

Net  interest  income  decreased  5%  compared  to  the  prior  half, 
due  to  increased  wholesale  funding  costs  and  lower  deposit 
margins,  in  part  driven  by  the  lower  cash  rate  environment. 
These were partially offset by home loan repricing. 

Other  key  productivity  initiatives  include  the  relocation  of  the 
Bankwest  corporate  headquarters  to  Bankwest  Place  and  the 
adoption  of  an  activity  based  working  model  which  reduced 
office space requirements. 

Other banking income increased 1% compared to the prior half, 
due to higher lending fee income. 

Home Loans 

Home  loan  balances  increased  to  $51  billion,  up  12%  on  the 
prior year, which was significantly higher than system growth of 
5%. This was driven by a competitive product  proposition, with 
strong growth in the premium select home loan product, targeted 
marketing campaigns and the continued expansion and maturity 
of the East Coast branch network. 

Home  loan  margins  declined  compared  to  the  prior  year  as 
repricing  initiatives  were  offset  by  the  increase  in  wholesale 
funding  costs.  Margins  also  decreased  compared  to  the  prior 
half as funding costs continued to increase.  

Business loans 

Business  loan  balances  decreased  to  $20  billion,  down  2%  on 
the prior year. The decrease was due to the continued run off of 
pre-acquisition  higher  risk  loans.  Excluding  the  pre-acquisition 
higher risk loans, balances increased 7% over the prior year and 
grew ahead of system growth. 

The  expense  to  income  ratio  of  51.2%  continued  to  improve, 
down 180 basis points compared to the prior year, reflecting an 
ongoing focus on productivity. 

Operating  expenses  decreased  2%  compared  to  the  prior  half 
due to lower IT expenses and disciplined expense management. 

Despite  the  reduction  in  operating  expenses  compared  to  the 
prior  half,  the  expense  to  income  ratio  increased  140  basis 
points in the second half as income was impacted by escalation 
in wholesale and deposit funding costs. 

Loan Impairment Expense 

Loan 
impairment  expense  was  $61  million,  down  44% 
compared  to  the  prior  year.  This  reflects  the  improving  credit 
quality of the book. 

Home  loans  and  Credit  Card  90+  day  arrears  decreased 
compared  to  the  prior  year  as  a  result  of  strong  collections 
processes along with improvements in credit quality. 

32 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
Bankwest 

(1) Includes amounts due to Group companies (30 June 2012: $18.7 billion; 31 December 2011: $16.2 billion; 30 June 2011: $16.5 billion). 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

33 

30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vs$M$MJun 11 %$M$MDec 11 % Net interest income1,4571,4203709748(5)Other banking income207220(6)1041031Total banking income1,6641,6401813851(4)Operating expenses(852)(869)(2)(422)(430)(2)Loan impairment expense(61)(109)(44)(23)(38)(39)Net profit before tax75166213368383(4)Corporate tax expense(227)(199)14(112)(115)(3)Cash net profit after tax52446313256268(4)Full Year EndedHalf Year Ended30/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Jun 12 vsJun 12 vsBalance Sheet$M$M$MDec 11 %Jun 11 %Home lending50,99848,66845,673512Other lending assets22,25522,47922,722(1)(2)Other assets9,3428,8958,433511Total assets82,59580,04276,82838Transaction deposits9,0558,5968,73154Savings deposits7,3337,7187,033(5)4Investments deposits28,69228,89226,956(1)6Certificates of deposit and other26428259(6)largeDebt issues9,4149,5889,064(2)4Due to other financial institutions (1)18,85416,27216,6441613Other liabilities2,9582,9723,068-(4)Total liabilities76,57074,32071,55537As at 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Divisions 

Financial Performance and Business Review 

IFS Asia 

International Financial Services Asia (IFS Asia) incorporates the 
Asian  retail  and  SME  banking  operations  (Indonesia,  China, 
Vietnam  and  India),  investments  in  Chinese  and  Vietnamese 
retail  banks,  the  joint  venture  Chinese  life  insurance  business 
and  the  life  insurance  operations  in  Indonesia.  It  does  not 
include the Business and Private Banking, Institutional Banking 
and Markets and Colonial First State Global Asset Management 
businesses in Asia. 

IFS  Asia  cash  net  profit  after  tax  for  the  year  ended  30  June 
2012  was  $79 million,  an increase  of  49%  over  the  prior  year. 
The  result  was  characterised  by  strong  contributions  from  the 
Bank  of  Hangzhou  and  the  proprietary  banking  and  insurance 
businesses in Indonesia. 

IFS Asia cash net profit after tax for the half year ended 30 June 
2012 was up 14% compared to the prior half, driven by a higher 
contribution from the Bank of Hangzhou.  

Banking Income 

Net  interest  income  increased  24%  over  the  prior  year  to  $99 
million, due to strong lending growth and higher margins in PT 
Bank Commonwealth in Indonesia. Lending balances increased 
37%  during the  year,  and  are  now  in  excess  of $1  billion. The 
consumer,  business  and  SME  portfolio  balance  growth 
amounted to 93%, 89% and 62% respectively. Expansion of the 
Group‟s  footprint  in  Indonesia  continued  during  the  year  with 
eight  new  PT  Bank  Commonwealth  branches  being  opened, 
bringing the total number of branches to 92. 

Two  additional  China  County  banks  were  opened  during  the 
year, bringing the total number of proprietary banks in China to 
five. While  still  a  number  of  years  away  from  achieving  critical 
mass, lending balances continued to grow strongly.  

The  proprietary  banking  businesses  in  India  and  Vietnam  also 
continue to grow steadily. 

Proprietary  customer  numbers  in  Asia  increased  by  22%  to 
292,000 compared to the prior year. 

result  also 

Other banking income increased 18% to $146 million driven by a 
strong  equity  accounted  profit  contribution  from  the  Bank  of 
Hangzhou, benefitting from lending growth and higher margins. 
The 
included  strong  wealth  management, 
bancassurance and treasury income growth from the Indonesian 
retail  banking  business.  This  was  partially  offset  by  a  lower 
contribution  to  earnings  from  Qilu  Bank  as  a  result  of  the 
ongoing impact of a prior year fraud incident. 

Insurance Income 

Insurance income increased 43% to $67 million, reflecting strong 
growth in sales volumes at PT Commonwealth Life in Indonesia. 
Inforce  premium  income  grew  39%  on  the  prior  year.  PT 
Commonwealth  Life  also  opened four  new  life  offices,  bringing 
the total to 28. 

The BoCommLife joint venture in China also grew steadily, with 
inforce premium income up 38% on the prior year. 

Operating Expenses 

Operating  expenses  were  up  15%  to  $212  million,  reflecting 
higher volume related expenses in line with sales growth in the 
Indonesian insurance business, and the continued investment in 
Indonesia and China. 

Operating expense growth slowed in the current half to 2%, with 
higher  volume  related  expenses  partly  offset  by  disciplined 
expense management. 

Corporate Centre 

Corporate  Centre  includes  the  results  of  unallocated  Group 
support  functions  such  as  Investor  Relations,  Group  Strategy, 
Secretariat, Group Tax and Treasury.  

Treasury is primarily focused on the management of the Group‟s 
interest  rate  risk,  funding  and  liquidity  requirements,  and 
management  of  the  Group‟s  capital.  The  Treasury  function 
includes: 

 

Portfolio Risk Management: manages the interest rate risk 
of  the  Group‟s  non-traded  balance  sheet  using  transfer 
pricing  to  consolidate  risk  into  Treasury  and  hedging  the 
residual  mismatch  between  assets  and  liabilities  using 
swaps,  futures  and  options;  and  manages  the  Group‟s 
prudential liquidity requirements; 

  Group Funding: manages the Group‟s long and short term 

 

wholesale funding requirements; and 
Capital  and  Regulatory  Strategy:  manages  the  Group‟s 
capital requirements. 

Corporate Centre cash net profit after tax for the year ended 30 
June 2012 was $386 million, a 4% decrease on the prior year. 

Total banking income increased 7% to $867 million driven by: 

 

 

Higher income from the increase in the liquid asset portfolio 
held as a result of balance sheet growth and conservative 
business settings; partially offset by 
Reduced earnings on unallocated capital due to the lower 
interest rate environment. 

Operating expenses increased 29% to $344 million compared to 
the  prior  year  mainly  driven  by  a  $31  million  increase  in  the 
defined benefit superannuation plan expense and the impact of 
the transition to the new office premises at Darling Quarter in the 
Sydney CBD. 

Eliminations/Unallocated 

Eliminations/Unallocated includes intra-group elimination entries 
arising  on  consolidation,  centrally  raised  provisions  and  other 
unallocated revenue and expenses. 

Eliminations/Unallocated  cash  net  profit  after  tax  increased  by 
$88 million  on  the  prior comparative  period including the  gains 
from the sale of Sydney CBD properties previously held by the 
Group. 

34 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
Other Divisions 

(1) Represents Group wide eliminations. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

35 

CorporateEliminations (1)/IFS AsiaCentreUnallocatedTotal$M$M$M$MNet interest income99729(54)774Other banking income1461389293Total banking income245867(45)1,067Funds management income--2525Insurance income67-(25)42Total operating income312867(45)1,134Operating expenses(212)(344)-(556)Loan impairment expense(11)-2312Net profit before tax89523(22)590Corporate tax expense(7)(137)11(133)Non-controlling interests(4)-(12)(16)Underlying profit after tax78386(23)441Investment experience after tax1-2728Cash net profit after tax793864469Full Year Ended 30 June 2012CorporateEliminations (1)/IFS AsiaCentreUnallocatedTotal$M$M$M$MNet interest income80718(87)711Other banking income12494(81)137Total banking income204812(168)848Funds management income--2626Insurance income47-(27)20Total operating income251812(169)894Operating expenses(184)(267)-(451)Loan impairment expense(10)-3626Net profit before tax57545(133)469Corporate tax expense(5)(142)47(100)Non-controlling interests(2)-(14)(16)Underlying profit after tax50403(100)353Investment experience after tax3-1619Cash net profit after tax53403(84)372Full Year Ended 30 June 2011CorporateEliminations (1)/IFS AsiaCentreUnallocatedTotal$M$M$M$MNet interest income 51364(71)344Other banking income 761199204Total banking income127483(62)548Funds management income--1414Insurance income33-(12)21Total operating income160483(60)583Operating expenses(107)(194)-(301)Loan impairment expense(5)-5-Net profit before tax48289(55)282Corporate tax expense(3)(77)22(58)Non-controlling interests(2)-(5)(7)Underlying profit after tax43212(38)217Investment experience after tax(1)-1211Cash net profit after tax42212(26)228Half Year Ended 30 June 2012 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment Experience 

(1) Includes Shareholders‟ funds in the CFS Global Asset Management, Colonial First State and CommInsure businesses. 

36 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

30/06/1230/06/11Jun 12 vs30/06/1231/12/11Jun 12 vsInvestment Experience$M$MJun 11 %$M$MDec 11 %Wealth Management10883307533largeNew Zealand(11)1large(5)(6)(17)Other5237412329(21)Investment experience before tax14912123935666Corporate tax expense(60)(40)50(40)(20)100Investment experience after tax898110533647Full Year EndedHalf Year EndedAustralia (1)New ZealandAsiaTotalShareholder Investment Asset Mix (%)%%%%Local equities----International equities----Property11--9Sub-total11--9Fixed interest21629631Cash6838460Sub-total8910010091Total100100100100As at 30 June 2012 Australia (1)New ZealandAsiaTotalShareholder Investment Asset Mix ($M)$M$M$M$MLocal equities101-11International equities-1-1Property251--251Sub-total2612-263Fixed interest46236398923Cash1,56622441,794Sub-total2,0285871022,717Total2,2895891022,980As at 30 June 2012  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Risk Governance 

The Board and its Risk Committee operate as the highest level 
of the Group‟s risk governance and under the direction of their 
respective  charters.  At  management  level,  risk  governance  is 
undertaken by a structured hierarchy of committees and forums 
across the Group,  each  with specified  accountabilities. A more 
detailed description of the risk governance structure is set out in 
the Corporate Governance section of the Annual Report. 

Risk Management Organisation 

The  Group  Chief  Risk  Officer  (CRO),  who  heads  the  Risk 
Management function, oversees independent risk management 
for the Group. This unit is comprised of both risk management 
teams embedded in the businesses and Group functional teams 
that  develop  controls  for  each  type  of  risk  and  who  help  the 
Group  understand  risk  aggregation  to  enable  enterprise  wide 
risk  management.  The  CRO  reports  to  the  Chief  Executive 
Officer 
reporting 
(CEO)  and  has  direct  and  unfettered 
requirements to the Board Risk Committee. 

Risk management professionals deployed in each Business Unit 
measure risks and take actions to ensure businesses adhere to 
risk policies and procedures. They also provide insights to assist 
the  business  in  making  decisions  that  optimise  their  risk-
adjusted returns.  

the 

independent  risk  management 

Whilst 
is  an 
important  component  of  the  risk  management  framework, 
business  managers  are  the  consequential  owners  of  the  risks 
taken in their businesses. As risk owners, they are expected to 
staff  their  businesses  with  employees  who  are  appropriately 
knowledgeable about risk and its management. 

function 

The Group‟s risk appetite framework creates transparency over 
risk management and strategy decisions and, in turn, promotes 
a strong risk culture. Governance processes and disciplines are 
connected to the Group‟s, and aligned businesses, risk appetite 
statements.  These  promote 
risk 
management function from the Group‟s Business Units and the 
Group Audit and Assurance (GAA) function. 

independence  of 

the 

Independent  review  of  the  risk  management  framework  is 
carried  out  by  GAA.  They  audit  the  actions  of  businesses  and 
risk  management  teams.  In  addition,  Risk  Management  and 
GAA support “whistle blower” protocols to encourage employees 
to  raise  issues  they  believe  reveal  weaknesses  in  the  Group‟s 
risk undertakings. 

Further 
risk  governance  and 
management is included in Note 37 to the Financial Statements. 

information  on 

financial 

Risk Appetite 

The risk appetite of the Group represents the types and degree 
of  risk  that  it  is  willing  to  accept  for  its  shareholders  in  its 
strategic  and  business  actions.  Fundamentally,  it  guides  the 
Group‟s  risk  culture  and  sets  out  quantitative  and  qualitative 
boundaries on risk-taking activities which apply Group wide. 

The  Board‟s  view  is  that  a  well  articulated  risk  appetite  is 
important in giving the Group‟s stakeholders a clear expectation 
of how the Group will operate from a risk taking perspective. 

This  expectation  is  defined  by  a  number  of  principles  and 
metrics that are aligned to the Board‟s risk philosophy and sets 
minimum standards for shareholder value; allowing for resiliency 
factors  in  capital,  funding,  asset/liability  management,  liquidity, 
risk culture, and other risk mitigants. 

Risk Management 

Risk appetite is dynamic in nature and is reviewed on a regular 
basis  in  conjunction  with  the  Group‟s  strategic  plans  and 
business  actions.  The  validation  of  strategic  plans  against  the 
risk  appetite  ensures  that  the  assessment  of  current  capital 
adequacy  and  future  contingent  capital  plans  are  also  aligned 
with the risk appetite. 

The  Group‟s  risk  appetite  is  to  take  risks  that  are  adequately 
rewarded  and  that support  its  aspiration  of  achieving solid and 
sustainable  growth  in  shareholder  value.  Supporting  this  risk 
appetite, the Group will: 

  Operate  responsibly,  meet  the  financial  needs  of  its 
customers,  provide  excellent  customer  service  and 
maintain impeccable professional standards and business 
ethics; 
Differentiate  between 
relatively  clearly 
discernable distribution of possible outcomes), which is to 
be  assessed on  its merits,  and uncertainty  (which  has an 
unknown  distribution  of  possible  outcomes  that  is  hard  to 
discern), and which is to be minimised; 

(with  a 

risk 

 

  Make business decisions only after careful consideration of 
including  consideration  of  potential  upside  and 

risk, 
downside scenarios; 
Impose a set of limits and operating controls aligned to this 
and  each  subordinate  (e.g.  business  unit)  risk  appetite 
statement so that discipline in risk taking is systematically 
maintained; 
Understand  the  risks  it  takes  on  (or  the  nature  of 
uncertainties  involved),  undertaking  strategic  initiatives  or 
exposure  to  new  products  and  services  only  as  sufficient 
experience and insight is gained; 
Exercise disciplined moderation in risk-taking, underpinned 
with strength in capital, funding and liquidity; 
Diligently strive to protect and enhance its reputation; 

that,  within  practical 
constraints,  minimises  risks  to  the  sustainability  of  its 
business; and 
Promote  a  culture  aimed  at  the  achievement  of  best 
practice 
in  the  recognition,  assessment,  pricing  and 
management of risk. 

 
  Maintain  a  control  environment 

 

 

 

 

Risk  policies  and  tolerances  support  the  Group  and  business 
risk appetite statements by: 

 

Summarising the principles and practices to be used by the 
Group in managing its major risks; 

  Quantifying 

the 

risks, 
financial  operating 
principally  credit  risk,  market  risk  (both  traded  and  non-
traded) and operational and compliance risk; and  

limits 

for 

 

Stating  clearly  the  types  of  risk  outcomes  to  which  the 
Group is intolerant. 

The Group regularly benchmarks and aligns its policy framework 
against  existing  prudential  and  regulatory  standards.  Potential 
developments  in  Australian  and  international  standards,  and 
best practice are considered during a review. 

Risks  that  are  readily  quantifiable  (such  as  credit,  market  and 
liquidity  risks)  have  their  risk  profiles  restricted  by  limits.  Other 
significant  risk categories  are not managed in terms  of defined 
financial  limits,  but  via  comprehensive  qualitative  management 
standards and procedures. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

37 

 
 
Risk Management 

Principal Risk Types 

The principal risk types, their relevant governing policies and how they support the risk appetite are outlined in the table below. 

Risk Type 
Credit Risk including 
Concentration Risk 

Governing Policies 
The Group Credit Framework and 
Policies, including: 
Large Credit Exposure Policy;  
Country Risk Exposure Policy; and 
Industry Sector Concentration Policy. 

Market Risk 

Group Market Risk Policy; and  
Funds Management and Insurance 
Market Risk Policy. 

How Policy Supports Risk Appetite 
Quantitative limits/tolerances: 

Exposures to a single counterparty or group of related counterparties 
(limits differentiated by counterparty type, PD rating and security cover);  
Country Risk (exposure limits to control transfer / cross-border and 
sovereign default risks); and 
Industry concentrations (exposure and risk adjusted concentration 
limits). 

Quantitative limits/tolerances: 

Traded Market Risk (VaR and Stress Testing limits); 
Interest Rate Risk in the Banking Book (Market Value Sensitivity and 
Net Interest Earnings at Risk limits); 
Seed Trust Market Risk limits; 
Lease Residual Value Risk limits; 
Investment mandates for insurance Asset and Liability Management risk 
(VaR and stress testing limits); and 
Non-Traded Equity limits. 

Liquidity and 
Funding Risk 

Group Liquidity and Funding Policy. 

Quantitative limits/tolerances: 

Operational Risk 

Operational Risk Policy and 
Framework. 

Liquid asset holdings under name crisis scenario; and 
Source of funding (e.g., wholesale) limits and term funding limits. 

Management via: 

A number of risk mitigating policies; 
Reporting and case management of loss and near loss incidents; 
Comprehensive risk assessment and control assurance processes; 
Quantitative Risk Assessment Framework and Capital modelling; and 
Support from skilled risk professionals embedded throughout the Group. 

Insurance Risk  

Risk Management Framework. 

Management via: 

Compliance Risk 

Compliance Risk Management 
Framework (CRMF). 

Risk Management Strategy and Risk Statement; 
Underwriting and claims standards; 
Retaining the right to amend premiums on risk policies; and 
Re-insurance purchase under policy guidance. 

Management via: 

The CRMF Minimum Group Standards for Compliance, Risk 
Management Obligations Register and Guidance Notes that detail 
specific requirements and accountabilities for each Business Unit;  
Business Unit compliance frameworks; and 
Support from skilled compliance professionals embedded throughout 
the Group. 

Strategic Business 
Risk 

Strategic Framework. 

Management via elements of other risk type policies and processes 
in addition to management controls including: 

Strategic planning; 
Strategic implementation; and 
Financial management. 

Reputational Risk 

Cultural Framework and Statement of 
Professional Practice. 

Management via elements of other risk type policies and processes 
in addition to: 

Support from risk professionals embedded throughout the Group; and 
Crisis management testing of leadership team. 

38 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit Risk 

Credit risk is the potential of loss arising from failure of a debtor 
or  counterparty  to  meet  their  contractual  obligations.  At  a 
portfolio level, credit risk includes concentration risk arising from 
interdependencies  between  counterparties 
(large  credit 
exposures),  and  concentrations  of  exposure  to  countries, 
industry sectors and geographical regions. Exposure to risk also 
arises through securitisation activity. 

The  Group‟s  credit  risk  policies  have  been  developed  as  a 
matter  of  sound  risk  management  practice  and  in  accordance 
with the expectations of regulators‟ prudential standards as well 
as legal requirements. 

The  measurement  of  credit  risk  is  based  on  an  internal  credit 
risk-rating  system,  which  uses  analytical  tools  to  estimate 
expected and unexpected loss for the credit portfolio. 

Further 
risk  management  and 
measurement is included in Note 38 to the Financial Statements. 

information  on  credit 

Market Risk 

Market risk is the potential of loss arising from adverse changes 
in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, commodity and equity 
prices,  credit  spreads,  lease  residual  values,  and  implied 
volatility  levels.  Market  risk  also  includes  risks  associated  with 
funding and liquidity management. 

Further information on market risk is included in Note 39 to the 
Financial Statements. 

Liquidity and Funding Risk 

Liquidity  risk  is  the  risk  of  being  unable  to  meet  financial 
obligations  as  they  fall  due.  Funding  risk  is  the  risk  of  over-
reliance on a funding source to the extent that a change in that 
funding  source  could  increase  overall  funding  costs  or  cause 
difficulty in raising funds.  

Further  information  on  liquidity  and  funding  risk  is  included  in 
Note 40 to the Financial Statements. 

Operational Risk 

Operational  risk is  defined  as  the  risk  of  economic  loss  arising 
from inadequate or failed internal processes, people, systems or 
from  external  events.  It  includes  legal,  regulatory,  fraud, 
business continuity and technology risks. 

The  Group‟s  operational  risk management framework supports 
the  achievement  of  its  financial  and  business  goals.  The 
following  objectives  have  been  approved  by 
the  Risk 
Committee: 

  Maintenance  of  an  effective  internal  control  environment 

 

 

and system of internal control; 
Demonstration  of  effective  governance, 
consistent  approach 
across the Group; 
Transparency, escalation and resolution of risk and control 
incidents and issues; and  

including  a 
to  operational  risk  management 

  Making  decisions  based  upon  an  informed  risk-return 
analysis  and  appropriate  standards  of  professional 
practice. 

Insurance Risk 

Insurance  risk  is  the  risk  of  loss  due  to  increases  in  policy 
benefits  arising  from  variations  in  the  incidence  or  severity  of 
insured events. Risk exposure arises in the insurance business 
as the  risk that claims  payments  are  greater than  expected. In 
the life insurance business, this arises primarily through mortality 
(death)  or  morbidity  (illness  or  injury)  risks  being  greater  than 
expected. For the general insurance business, variability arises 

Risk Management 

mainly through weather related incidents and similar events, as 
well  as  general  variability  in  home,  motor  and  travel  insurance 
claim amounts. 

The  management  of  insurance  risk  is  an  integral  part  of  the 
operation of the insurance business. It is essential in the control 
of  claims  on  an  end-to-end  basis,  from  underwriting  to  policy 
termination or claim payment. 

The major methods of mitigating insurance risk are: 

 

 

 

 

Sound  product  design  and  pricing,  to  ensure  that  robust 
procedures are in place and there are no risks which have 
not been priced into contracts; 
Regular  review  of  insurance  experience,  so  that  product 
design and pricing remains sound; 
level  of  risk 
Carrying  out  underwriting,  so  that  the 
associated  with  an  individual  contract  can  be  accurately 
assessed,  charged 
through  premium  rates,  and 
reserved for; 
Claims management, where an assessment is made such 
that  only  genuinely  insured  claims  are  admitted  and  paid; 
and 

for 

 

Transferring a portion of the risk carried to reinsurers. 

Further information on the Life Insurance Business is included in 
Note 32 to the Financial Statements. 

Compliance Risk  

Compliance  risk  is  the  risk  of  legal  or  regulatory  sanctions, 
material financial loss, or loss of reputation that the Group may 
suffer as a result of its failure to comply with the requirements of 
relevant laws, regulatory bodies, industry standards and codes. 

is  consistent  with 

The  Group‟s  Compliance  Risk  Management  Framework 
(CRMF) 
the  Australian  Standard  on 
Compliance Programmes. It is designed to help the Group meet 
its  obligations  under  the  Corporations  Act  2001,  the  Group‟s 
Australian  Financial  Services  Licence  and  Australian  Credit 
Licences.  CRMF 
incorporates  a  number  of  components, 
including Group policies, a Compliance Obligations Register and 
a  Compliance  Review  programme  to  monitor  compliance  with 
policies. 

These  are  complemented  by  Business  Unit  compliance 
including  obligations  registers,  standards  and 
frameworks 
procedures.  

The  CRMF  provides  for  the  assessment  of  compliance  risks, 
implementation of controls, monitoring and testing of framework 
effectiveness  and  the  escalation,  remediation  and  reporting  of 
compliance incidents and control weaknesses. 

The Group's compliance strategy is based on two fundamental 
principles:  

 

in  each  Business  Unit  have 

the 
Line  management 
responsibility  to  ensure  their  business  is,  and  remains 
compliant  with,  legislative,  regulatory,  industry  code  and 
organisational requirements; and  

  Group  and  Business  Unit  regulatory  risk  and  compliance 
teams  work  together  to  monitor,  oversee  and  report  on 
compliance  to  management,  compliance  committees  and 
the Board. 

Strategic Business Risk 

Strategic  business  risk  is  defined  as  the  risk  of  economic  loss 
resulting from changes in the business environment caused by 
the following factors: 

  Macroeconomic conditions; 
 
 

Competitive forces at work; or 
Social trends. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

39 

 
 
Risk Management 

Strategic  business  risk  is  taken  into  account  as  business 
strategies  and  objectives  are  defined.  The  Board  receives 
reports on business plans, major projects and change initiatives 
and  monitors  progress  and  reviews  successes  compared  to 
plans. 

 

Reputational Risk 

Reputational risk arises from the negative perception on the part 
of  customers,  counterparties,  shareholders,  investors,  debt 
holders, market analysts, regulators and other relevant parties of 
the Group. 

throughout 

This  risk  can  adversely  affect  the  Group‟s  ability  to  maintain 
existing, or establish new, business relationships and access to 
sources  of  funding.  Reputational  risk  is  multidimensional  and 
reflects the perception of other market participants. Furthermore, 
it  exists 
to 
reputational  risk  is  a  function  of  the  adequacy  of  the  Group‟s 
control of its risk management processes, as well as the manner 
and  efficiency  with  which  management  responds  to  external 
influences  on  Group-related  transactions.  In  many  but  not  all 
respects,  adverse  reputational  risk  outcomes  flow  from  the 
failure to manage other types of risk. 

the  organisation  and  exposure 

Stress Testing Framework 

testing 

is  used, 

Stress 
in  combination  with  other  risk 
management practices, to understand, manage and quantify the 
Group‟s risks.  

The  Group  regularly  carries  out  stress  tests  across  its  various 
businesses as part of: 

 

 
 
 

Formal business strategic planning and capital assessment 
at Board level; 
Regular risk management exercises;  
Business contingency planning; and 
Requests from regulators or external agencies. 

Ad-hoc risk stress testing is also regularly undertaken to identify 
and assess the risk profile of the Group. 

The stress testing framework includes: 

  Group-wide stress scenarios which inform and engage the 
Board  in  assessing  capital  requirements  and  other  key 
financial  outcomes  under  various  severe  but  plausible 
scenarios.  These  tests  are  conducted  across  businesses 
with the results aggregated to the Group level; and 

 

Risk  Management  related  stress  testing,  which  supports 
enhanced risk identification, assessment and management 
within the Group‟s Risk Appetite. 

Such  stress  testing  facilitates  a  more  robust  understanding  of 
the Group‟s risks and facilitates better management policies and 
predictability  of  capital 
in  more  extreme 
circumstances. 

requirements 

Stress  testing  also  provides  an  input  into  the  formation  of 
internal  views  of  the  adequacy  of  the  Group‟s  capital,  liquidity, 
and  provisions  and  the  development  of  capital  and  liquidity 
contingency plans which detail how the Group would respond to 
potential future adverse scenarios.  

Specific  risk  types  for  which  stress  tests  are  conducted  on  a 
routine basis for business risk management purposes include: 

 

 

 

Credit  risk  stress  tests  on  a  number  of  retail  and 
commercial portfolios; 
Traded  market  risk,  non-traded  interest  rate  risk,  non-
traded equity risk and non-traded insurance risk portfolios; 
Liquidity  stress  tests  that  determine  survival  horizons  are 
the  Asset  and  Liability 
to 
performed  and  reported 

40 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Committee  (ALCO)  on  a  monthly  basis.  The  stress  tests 
look to identify the timeframe over which high quality liquid 
assets  could  survive  under  various  stress  liability  run-off 
scenarios; 
Funding  indicators  monitor  a  range  of  balance  sheet 
metrics focussing on external market conditions, changing 
patterns of business activity and concentration; and 

  Operational risk to assess the potential for operational risk 

outcomes. 

Risk Management Initiatives 

In  order  to  remain  effective  in  constantly  evolving  economic, 
strategic  and  regulatory  environments,  the  risk  management 
framework and culture requires a continuous cycle of review and 
refinement.  Over  the  last  twelve  months  the  Group  has  made 
the following key refinements to its framework: 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

system, 

promoting 

Implementation  of  key  projects  and  initiatives  aligned  to 
achieving the risk management strategic plan; 
Update  of  the  risk  appetite  statements  for  the  Group  and 
for each of the Group‟s major Business Units; 
Implementation of the Group‟s integrated Operational Risk 
and  Compliance 
a  more 
comprehensive,  single  integrated  view  of  operational  risk 
and compliance data; 
Simplification of the Group‟s credit manual, creating a more 
user-friendly  document  that  also  encourages  a  culture  of 
ownership and accountability across the Group; 
Refresh of the credit risk assessment models; 
Undertaking  of  further  risk  optimisation  strategies  and 
portfolio  reviews  that  have  provided  insight  into  key  risk 
dependencies  and  resulted  in  adjusting  risk  exposure 
levels based on available risk-adjusted returns; 
Refinement  of  the  internal  capital  allocation  framework  to 
provide performance measurement that better supports the 
optimisation of shareholder returns; 
Continuation of projects that will substantially enhance core 
risk systems, data and processes; 
Creation  of  the  Group  Credit  Structuring  (GCS)  team  by 
combining  the  specialist  workout  resources  from  Credit 
Risk  Solutions  and  Specialised  Lending  Services.  The 
combined  GCS 
to  ensure 
consistency of service delivery for business customers and 
to ensure the full resources of the Group can be utilised on 
problem exposures; 
Commencement  of 
Integration  Project. 
the  Workout 
Following  on  from  the  creation  of  GCS,  this  project  will 
integrate  the  workout  functions  across  the  Group  (ASB, 
Bankwest  and  CBA)  with  consistent  processes  which  will 
improve  interactions  with internal  and  external customers, 
enhance productivity and result in better outcomes as well 
as providing deeper career opportunities for staff; 
Enhancement of the structured learning framework (across 
credit, market and operational risk) that is available to risk 
management and front line staff; 
Implementation  of  a  more  targeted  and  comprehensive 
Product  Approval  Process,  to  ensure  that  the  risks 
associated with innovative new products and variations to 
existing  ones,  are  identified,  understood,  priced  and 
managed accordingly; 
Enhancement  of  the  Group‟s  risk  modelling  and  stress 
testing  frameworks  to  meet  the  demands  of  an  ever-
changing macroeconomic environment; and 

is  better  placed 

team 

  Monitoring  of  and  responding  to  regulatory  changes  and 
likely  future  regulatory  changes  (particularly  in  regards  to 
Basel 2.5 and Basel III). 

 
 
 
Capital Management 

Basel II Regulatory Capital – Current Environment 

as defined under the internationally harmonised BCBS rules. 

The Group maintains a strong capital position with ratios well in 
excess of APRA and the Board Approved minimum levels at all 
times throughout the year ended 30 June 2012. 

internationally  harmonised  CET1  ratios  are 
The  Group‟s 
calculated based on full adoption of the Basel III capital reforms, 
which will not come into effect until 2019 for most banks. 

The  Group‟s  Common  Equity  Tier  One  (CET1)  and  Tier  One 
ratios  as  at  30  June  2012  were  7.8%  and  10.0%  respectively. 
Tier One Capital remained flat compared to the prior year with a 
solid profit performance offset by an increase in Risk Weighted 
Assets  (RWA),  including  the  adoption  of  stricter  regulatory 
requirements under Basel 2.5. 

 The  Group‟s  CET1  and  Tier  One  ratios  as  at  30  June  2012 
under  the  Financial  Services  Authority  (the  UK  regulator) 
method were 11.1% and 13.6% respectively. 

Basel III Regulatory Capital 

From  1  January  2013,  the  Group  will  adopt  the  Basel  III 
measurement and monitoring of regulatory capital. 

the  Basel  Committee  on  Banking 
In  December  2010, 
Supervision  (BCBS)  published  a  discussion  paper  on  banking 
reforms  to  address  issues  which  led  to  the  Global  Financial 
Crisis and to position banks for future crises. The objectives of 
the capital reforms are to increase the quality, consistency and 
risk  coverage 
transparency  of  capital, 
framework,  and  to  reduce  systemic  and  pro-cyclical  risk.  The 
major  reforms  are  to  be  phased  in  from  1  January  2013  to  1 
January 2019. 

to  enhance 

the 

In  March  2012,  Australian  Prudential  Regulation  Authority 
(APRA)  published  a  discussion  paper  and  draft  prudential 
standards relating to the implementation of the Basel III capital 
reforms 
to  adopt  a  more 
conservative  approach  than  the  minimum  standards  published 
by  the  BCBS  and  to  adopt  an  accelerated  timetable  for 
implementation. 

in  Australia.  APRA  proposes 

The APRA draft prudential standards require a minimum CET1 
ratio of 4.5% effective from 1 January 2013. An additional CET1 
capital  conservation  buffer  of  2.5%  will  be  implemented  on  1 
January 2016, bringing the minimum CET1 requirement to 7%. 
The  BCBS  advocates  the  same  minimum  requirements,  but 
implementation is to be phased in over an extended timeframe 
up to 1 January 2019. 

It  is  expected  that  APRA  will  publish  a  final  set  of  prudential 
standards later this calendar year. 

Implementation of Basel III Capital Reforms 

The Board has set a target of holding greater than 9% of CET1, 

Adoption of a CET1 target based on internationally harmonised 
principles  will  enable  a  more  meaningful  comparison  of  the 
Group‟s capital levels relative to its international peers.  

In  establishing  a  CET1  target  of  greater  than  9%,  the  Board 
undertook a detailed analysis of a range of factors including: 

 

 
 

 

The  higher  CET1  capital  requirements  applicable  under 
Basel III; 
The economic capital requirements of the Group; 
The results of various stress tested scenarios which have 
been used to establish appropriate buffers above minimum 
regulatory requirements; and 
Consideration of capital levels across global peers. 

In setting such a high CET1 target (greater than 9%), the Group 
would  expect  that  in  times  of  severe  stress,  the  CET1  capital 
may fall below this level. If this happens for a material period, the 
Group can  deploy  a  range  of capital management  initiatives to 
restore  capital  levels.  This  reflects  the  lower  relative  profit 
volatility of the Group due to lower exposure to global investment 
banking and the higher exposure to stable, low risk mortgages 
and the broader retail banking market. 

Whilst  the  Group  has  set  a  CET1  target,  consistent  with  the 
proactive approach to management of capital, the Group keeps 
targets under continuing review, assessing the Group‟s financial 
experience  and  outlook  against 
the  volatile  external 
environment,  as  well  as  the  continuing  evolution  of  the 
regulatory regime. 

Basel III Capital (Internationally Harmonised) as at  
30 June 2012  

The  Group  is  well  positioned  to  meet  the  Board  approved 
internationally  harmonised  Common  Equity target  with  a  CET1 
ratio of 9.8% as at 30 June 2012. 

The Group has adopted a conservative and proactive approach 
to  capital  management  and  this  is  reflected  in  the  overall 
strength  of  its  capital  position.  The  CET1  ratio  (on  an 
internationally  harmonised  basis)  has  increased  by  over  40% 
since the Global Financial Crisis (June 2007). 

The  Group‟s  30  June  2012  internationally  harmonised  CET1 
ratio of 9.8%, places it well above the average of its international 
peers (approximately 8.4%). 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

41 

 7.7%7.8%11.1%Jun 11Basel IIJun 12Basel IIJun 12UK FSACET1 RatioTier 1 Ratio10.0%10.0%13.6% 6.9%9.8%Jun 07Jun 12Board42%Target (>9%) 
 
 
Capital Management 

In  November  2011,  the  Australian  Securities  and  Investments 
Commission  (ASIC)  released  new  financial  requirements  that 
apply  to  Responsible  Entities.  These  new  requirements,  which 
are  not  expected  to  have  a  material  impact,  will  become 
effective on 1 November 2012. 

Supervision of Conglomerate Groups 

its  current  prudential  supervision 

APRA  released  a  discussion  paper  titled  “Supervision  of 
Conglomerate  Groups”  in  March  2010.  APRA  is  seeking  to 
extend 
to 
Conglomerate  Groups  that  have  material  operations  in  more 
than  one  APRA  regulated  industry  and/or  have  one  or  more 
material unregulated entities. The aims of the Level 3 proposals 
are to ensure that a Conglomerate Group holds adequate capital 
to protect the APRA regulated entities from potential contagion 
and other risks within the Group. 

framework 

Draft capital standards  are  expected  to  be  released before the 
end  of  the  calendar  year,  with  implementation  expected  from 
1 January 2014. 

Dividends 

Final Dividend for the year ended 30 June 2012 

A final dividend of $1.97 per share was declared, an increase of 
5% on the prior year. The total dividend for the year ended 30 
June 2012 was $3.34 per share, up 4% on the prior year, taking 
the payout ratio („cash basis”) for the year to 75%. 

The  final  dividend  will  be  fully  franked  and  will  be  paid  on  5 
October  2012  to  owners  of  ordinary  shares  at  the  close  of 
business  on  24  August  2012  (record  date).  Shares  will  be 
quoted ex-dividend on 20 August 2012. 

Full Year Dividend History (cents per share) 

Source: Morgan Stanley – based on last reported CET1 ratios as at 13 August 
2012 assuming Basel III capital reforms are fully implemented. The peer group 
comprises listed commercial banks with total assets in excess of A$400 billion 
who  have  disclosed  fully  implemented  Basel  III  ratios,  or  provided  sufficient 
disclosure for Morgan Stanley Equity Research to estimate the ratios. 

Basel III Capital (APRA) as at 30 June 2012 
The Group has a CET1 ratio of 7.5% under the Basel III APRA 
draft prudential standards, above the minimum ratio of 4.5%. 

The  differences  in  the  Basel  III  APRA  and  the  Basel  III 
internationally harmonised CET1 ratios include: 

Deductions 

 

APRA requires a full deduction to be taken against CET1 
for equity investments (including investments in insurance 
and  funds  management  operations)  and  deferred  tax 
assets. On an internationally harmonised basis, such items 
are  concessionally  risk  weighted 
fall  below 
prescribed thresholds. 

they 

if 

Risk Weighted Assets 

 

 

APRA requires capital to be held for Interest Rate Risk in 
the Banking Book (IRRBB). There is no similar requirement 
on an internationally harmonised basis; and  
APRA requires a minimum Loss Given Default (LGD) floor 
of 20% to be applied to mortgages. 

Other Regulatory Changes 

General and Life Insurers 

In  May  2012,  APRA  released  a  number  of  draft  and  final 
prudential  standards  with  respect  to  capital  requirements  for 
general  and  life  insurers.  Final  versions  of  the  remaining 
prudential  standards  are  expected  to  be  released  by  APRA 
before  the  end  of  the  calendar  year.  Implementation  of  the 
majority of the reforms is scheduled for 1 January 2013. 

Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP) 

The DRP will continue to operate but no discount will be applied 
to shares issued under the plan for the final dividend. 

Dividend Policy 

As  part  of  the  review  of  its  Capital  policy  the  Board  has  also 
reviewed its dividend policy. The Group will seek to: 

Pay cash dividends at strong and sustainable levels; 
Target a payout ratio of 70% to 80%; and  

 
 
  Maximise  the  use  of  its  franking  account  by  paying  fully 

Superannuation Funds Management 

franked dividends. 

financial  requirements 

APRA has released draft prudential standards that will introduce 
new 
for  registered  superannuation 
trustees. Final prudential standards are expected to be released 
before the end of this calendar year, with the new requirements 
to be implemented on 1 July 2013. 

The payout ratio for interim dividends will be increased in future 
periods to approximately 70% of interim profit to ensure a more 
even distribution of dividends across the year. 

Consideration  will  be  given  in  future  periods  to  minimise  the 
dilutive  impact  of  the  DRP  through  the  on-market  purchase  of 
the number of shares required to satisfy the DRP participation. 

42 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

6.36.97.07.47.57.67.77.87.87.97.98.08.18.28.38.58.88.99.09.39.39.39.49.49.89.810.310.310.611.0Credit SuisseDeutscheScotiabankToronto Dominion BankSumitomo MitsuiBank of MontrealLloydsWells FargoRoyal Bank of ScotlandCitiJP MorganBarclaysBank of AmericaSociete GeneraleRoyal Bank of CanadaSantanderUBSBNP ParibasMitsubishi UFJIntesa SanpaoloNABUniCredit BBVA (Spain)INGANZCBAWestpacHSBCStandard CharteredNordea  International peer bank average CET1 ratio (ex. Australian banks) 8.4% 22425626622829032033470.5%74.2%75.0%78.2%73.9%73.2%75.0%0%20%40%60%80%100%120%140%-50050100150200250300350400Jun 06Jun 07Jun 08Jun 09Jun 10Jun 11Jun 12DPSPayout Ratio ("cash basis")80%70%Target Range 
 
 
 
 
Current Regulatory Framework  

for  banks 

The Bank is an Authorised Deposit taking Institution (ADI) and 
is  subject  to  regulation  by  APRA  under  the  authority  of  the 
Banking Act 1959. APRA has set minimum regulatory capital 
requirements 
the 
International  Convergence  of  Capital  Measurement  and 
Capital Standards: A Revised Framework (Basel II) issued by 
the BCBS. These requirements define what is acceptable as 
capital  and  provide  methods  of  measuring  the  risks  incurred 
by the Bank.  

that  are  consistent  with 

The  regulatory  capital  requirements  are  measured  for  the 
Extended Licence  Entity  Group  (“Level  One”, comprising the 
Bank and APRA approved subsidiaries) and for the Bank and 
all of  its  banking subsidiaries,  which  includes  both Bankwest 
and ASB Bank (“Level Two” or the “Group”). 

All  subsidiary  entities  which  are  consolidated  for  accounting 
purposes  are  included  within  the  Group  capital  adequacy 
calculations except for: 

 

 

The insurance and funds management operations; and 

The entities through which securitisation is conducted. 

Regulatory  capital  is  divided  into  Tier  One  and  Tier  Two 
Capital.  Tier  One  Capital  primarily  consists  of  Shareholders‟ 
Equity plus other capital instruments acceptable to APRA, less 
goodwill and other prescribed deductions. Tier Two Capital is 
comprised primarily of hybrid and debt instruments acceptable 
to APRA less any prescribed deductions. Total Capital is the 
aggregate of Tier One and Tier Two Capital. 

Capital  adequacy  is  measured  by  means  of  a  risk  based 
capital ratio. The capital ratios reflect capital as a percentage 
of total RWA. RWA represents a risk weighted assessment of 
the Group‟s assets and other related exposures. 

The  Group  has  a  range  of  instruments  and  methodologies 
available  to  effectively  manage  capital.  These  include  share 
issues  and  buybacks,  dividend  and  DRP  policies,  hybrid 
capital  raising  and  dated  and  undated  subordinated  debt 
issues. All major capital related initiatives require approval of 
the Board. 

The  Group‟s  capital  ratios  throughout  the  2011  and  2012 
financial years were in compliance with both APRA minimum 
capital  adequacy  requirements  and  the  Board  Approved 
minimum. 

The  Bank  is  required  to  inform  APRA  immediately  of  any 
breach  or  potential  breach  of  its  minimum  prudential  capital 
adequacy  requirements,  including  details  of  remedial  action 
taken or planned to be taken. 

Banks  may  not  pay  dividends  if,  immediately  after  payment, 
they  are  unable  to  meet  the  minimum  capital  requirements. 
APRA does not permit banks to pay dividends from retained 
profits without prior approval. 

Basel II Regulatory Framework  

The Basel II framework consists of three pillars: 

 

 
 

Pillar  1  –  defines  the  rules  for  calculating  the  minimum 
regulatory capital requirements; 
Pillar 2 – addresses the supervisory review process; and 
Pillar 3 – specifies public disclosure requirements. 

The  Group,  excluding  Bankwest,  was  granted  advanced 

Capital Management 

Basel II accreditation by APRA on 10 December 2007. 

The  Advanced  Internal  Ratings  Based  Approach  (AIRB)  for 
credit  risk  and  the  Advanced  Measurement  Approaches 
(AMA) for  operational risk  were  adopted  in the calculation  of 
RWA from 1 January 2008. 

Interest Rate Risk in the Banking Book (IRRBB), which relates 
to  the  risk  that  the  Bank‟s  profit  derived  from  net  interest 
income is adversely impacted from changes to interest rates. 
IRRBB  was  included  in  the  calculations  of  RWA from  1 July 
2008.  This  is  not  a  requirement  under  the  Basel  II  Pillar  1 
framework.  

Basel  II  enhancements  announced  in  July  2009,  relating  to 
securitisation and market risk were implemented on 1 January 
2012. 

The  work  undertaken  for  the  Bank  to  achieve  the  advanced 
accreditation  has  provided 
increased 
sophistication  in  risk  measurement  and  management.  This 
has increased the flexibility with which the Group manages its 
decision making and capital management.  

the  Group  with 

Regulatory  Capital  Requirements  for  Other  Major 
ADI’s in the Group 

ASB Bank Limited 

ASB  Bank  Limited  (ASB)  operates  as  a  stand-alone  Bank 
under Basel II advanced status and is subject to regulation by 
the  Reserve  Bank  of  New  Zealand  (RBNZ).  The  RBNZ 
in  calculating 
applies  a  similar  methodology  to  APRA 
regulatory capital requirements. 

ASB had a Tier One ratio of 11.67% and a Total Capital ratio 
of 12.57% at 30 June 2012. ASB Bank was in compliance with 
its regulatory capital requirements at all times during the year. 

Bankwest  

In 

Bankwest  currently  operates  as  a  stand-alone  Bank  under 
Basel  II  standardised  status  and  is  separately  regulated  by 
APRA. 
line  with  APRA‟s  regulations  which  require 
Australian  subsidiaries  of  major  banks  to  operate  under  the 
same  licence  as  their  parent,  Bankwest  is  expected  to 
relinquish  its  Australian  ADI  licence  in  October  2012.  This 
event  will  have  no  impact  on  the  Group‟s  capital  levels  as 
Bankwest  is  already  included  within  the  Group‟s  capital 
numbers. 

There  is  a  separate  programme  to  extend  the  Group‟s 
advanced  accreditation  to  include  the  assets  of  Bankwest. 
Bankwest‟s Tier One ratio was  8.48% and Total Capital was 
12.04% at 30 June 2012. Bankwest was in compliance with its 
regulatory capital requirements at all times during the year.  

Insurance and Funds Management Business 

The  Group‟s  insurance  and  funds  management  companies 
held $1,318 million of assets in excess of regulatory solvency 
requirements  at  30  June  2012  (31  December  2011:  $1,108 
million;  30  June  2011:  $1,014  million).  In  addition,  these 
companies  held  assets  in  excess  of  regulatory  capital 
requirements as at 30 June 2012. 

Pillar 3 Disclosures 

Full details on the market disclosures required under Pillar 3, 
per  prudential  standard  APS  330  “Public  Disclosure  of 
Prudential Information”, are provided on the Group‟s website. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

43 

 
 
Capital Management  

Capital Management 

The  Group  maintains  a  strong  capital  position  with  the  capital 
ratios  well  in  excess  of  APRA  minimum  capital  adequacy 
requirements  (Prudential  Capital  Ratio  (PCR))  and  the  Board 
Approved minimum levels at all times throughout the year ended 
30 June 2012.  

The Group‟s Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1), Tier One and Total 
Capital ratios (which include ASB Bank and Bankwest) as at 30 
June 2012 were 7.82%, 10.01% and 10.98% respectively.  

The Group‟s CET1 and Tier One Capital ratios increased by 15 
and  11  basis  points  respectively  over  the  prior  half.  This  was 
primarily  driven  by  capital  generated  from  earnings  (net  of 
dividend  and  DRP)  partially  offset  by  the  adoption  of  Basel  II 
enhancements  related to market  risk  and securitisation  (“Basel 
2.5”), which came into effect 1 January 2012. 

The Group‟s Total Capital ratio decreased 13 basis points over 
the prior half to 10.98%, with the benefits from the improvement 
in Tier One Capital, offset by the planned redemption of Lower 
Tier Two instruments. 

Compared  to  the  prior  year,  the  Group‟s  CET1  Capital  ratio 
increased 16 basis points, whilst Tier One Capital remained flat, 
with a solid profit performance offset by an increase in RWA. 

Total  Capital  decreased  72  basis  points  compared  to  the  prior 
year, primarily driven by the planned redemption of a number of 
Lower Tier Two Instruments. 

RWA  were  $303  billion  at  30  June  2012,  an  increase  of  $21 
billion since 30 June 2011 levels, primarily driven by a corporate 
lending volume related increase in credit RWA. 

Under  the  application  of  Basel  III,  which  is  due  to  be 
implemented  from  1  January  2013,  the  Group‟s  30  June  2012 

CET1  ratio  is  9.8%,  as  measured  under  the  internationally 
harmonised  basis  and  is  7.5%  based  on  APRA‟s  proposed 
Basel III methodology. 

The  Group‟s  CET1, Tier  One  and Total  Capital  ratios as  at  30 
June  2012  under  the  Financial  Services  Authority  (the  UK 
regulator)  method  of  calculating  regulatory  capital  as  a 
percentage  of  RWA  were  11.1%,  13.6%  and  14.1% 
respectively. This has been provided for comparative purposes 
as  the  Group  is  not  regulated  by  the  Financial  Services 
Authority. 

Capital Initiatives 

The  following  significant  initiatives  were  undertaken  during  the 
year to actively manage the Group‟s capital: 

Tier One Capital 

 

 

 

The allocation of $832 million of ordinary shares in order to 
satisfy  the  DRP  in  respect  of  the  final  dividend  for  the 
2010/2011 financial  year,  representing  a  participation  rate 
of 28.4%;  
The  issue  of  $237  million  of  ordinary  shares  associated 
with the acquisition of Count Financial Limited in December 
2011; and 
The allocation of $531 million of ordinary shares in order to 
satisfy  the  DRP  in  respect  of  interim  dividend  for  the 
2011/2012 financial  year,  representing  a  participation  rate 
of 24.5%. 

Tier Two Capital 

Redemption of four separate subordinated Lower Tier Two 
debt issues totalling $1,361 million in the December 2011 
half year; and  
Redemption of a further two separate subordinated Lower 
Tier Two debt issues totalling $500 million in May 2012. 

 

 

. 

 (1) Represents Fundamental Tier One Capital net of Tier One deductions. 

44 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

30/06/12 31/12/1130/06/11Risk Weighted Capital Ratios% % % Common Equity Tier One (1)7.827.677.66Tier One10.019.9010.01Tier Two0.971.211.69Total Capital10.9811.1111.70As at30/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Regulatory Capital (Basel II)$M$M$MFundamental Tier One Capital After Deductions23,66422,83721,575Total Tier One Capital30,29929,47328,213Total Tier Two Capital2,9393,5884,749Total Capital33,23833,06132,962As at30/06/1231/12/1130/06/11Risk Weighted Assets (Basel II)$M$M$MCredit risk exposures261,429258,446246,742Traded market risk4,8423,1053,162Interest rate risk in the banking book 9,76511,5259,699Operational risk26,75124,62922,108Total risk weighted assets302,787297,705281,711As at 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital Adequacy 

Capital Management 

  (1) Represents shares held by the Group‟s life insurance operations and employee share scheme trusts. 
(2) Trust Preferred Securities 2006 issued 15 March 2006 of USD700 million. These instruments qualify as Tier One Innovative Capital of the Group. 

(3)  The  Group‟s  general  reserve,  capital  reserve  and  foreign  currency  translation  reserve  (excluding  balances  related  to  non  consolidated  subsidiaries)  qualify  as 

Fundamental Tier One Capital. 

(4) As at 30 June 2012, the Available-for-Sale reserve had a deficit balance of $63 million, resulting in the requirement to recognise this deficit in the regulatory Capital 

Calculations (31 December 2011: $83 million deficit). 

(5) Represents expected dividends required to be deducted from current period earnings. 

(6) DRP in respect of the June 2012 final dividend is to be satisfied through the issue of shares, with the assumed reinvestment rate based on reinvestment experience 

as approved by APRA. The DRP in respect of both the December 2011 interim and June 2011 final dividend was satisfied by the issue of shares.  

(7) Represents cumulative current year profit and retained earnings adjustment for subsidiaries not consolidated for regulatory purposes. This includes adjustments to 
the extent to which retained earnings from non-consolidated subsidiaries have not been repatriated to the Bank in dividends (June 2012: $878 million, December 
2011: $717 million, June 2011: $525 million). The retention of these profits are used to fund the future growth of these operations. This has been offset by the one-
off write back adjustments upon adoption of IFRS of $752 million.  

(8)  Non-controlling  interest  classified  as  Tier  One  Innovative  Capital  under  Basel  II  regulations.  Comprised  predominantly  of  ASB  Perpetual  Preference  Shares  of 

NZ$550 million issued by New Zealand subsidiary entities. These shares are non-redeemable and carry limited voting rights. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

45 

30/06/12 31/12/11 30/06/11 Regulatory Capital$M  $M  $M  Ordinary Share Capital25,17524,65123,602Treasury shares (1)323316294Ordinary Share Capital and Treasury Shares25,49824,96723,896Other Equity Instruments939939939Trust Preferred Securities 2006 (2)(939)(939)(939)Total Other Equity Instruments---Reserves (3)1,571829392Cash flow hedge reserve(644)(234)402Employee compensation reserve(136)(95)(135)Asset revaluation reserve(195)(191)(191)Available-for-sale investments reserve (4)--(245)Foreign currency translation reserve related to non-consolidated subsidiaries171153149Total Reserves767462372Retained Earnings and current period profits13,35611,92811,826Expected dividend (5)(3,137)(2,166)(2,930)Estimated reinvestment under Dividend Reinvestment Plan (6)784542733Retained earnings adjustment for non-consolidated subsidiaries (7)(126)35227Other(219)(178)(189)Net Retained Earnings10,65810,1619,667Non-controlling Interest (8)531528528ASB Perpetual Preference Shares (8)(505)(505)(505)Non-controlling interests less ASB Perpetual Preference Shares262323Total Fundamental Tier One Capital36,94935,61333,958As at  
 
 
 
 
Capital Management  

Capital Adequacy (continued) 

(1) Represents total Goodwill and other intangibles (excluding capitalised computer software costs) which is required to be deducted from Tier One Capital. 

(2) In accordance with APRA regulations, the surplus (net of tax) in the Bank‟s defined benefit superannuation fund which is  included in Shareholders‟ equity must be 

deducted from Tier One Capital. 

(3) Capital deduction at 30 June 2012 of $209 million after tax (31 December 2011: $183 million, 30 June 2011: $132 million) to ensure the Group has sufficient provisions 

and capital to cover credit losses estimated to arise over the full life of the individual facilities, as required by APS 220. 

(4) Represents 50% Tier One and 50% Tier Two Capital deductions under Basel II. 

(5)  Represents  the  Group‟s  non-controlling  interest  in  other  entities.  Prior  period  comparatives  restated  with  reclassification  between  equity  investments  and  other 

deductions. 

(6) Represents the net equity within the non-consolidated subsidiaries (primarily the Colonial Group) which is deducted 50% from Tier One and 50% from Tier Two Capital. 
This deduction is net of $1,214 million in Non-Recourse Debt issued by Colonial Finance Limited (31 December 2011: $1,880 million; 30 June 2011: $1,452 million) and 
$1,000 million in Colonial Group Subordinated Notes issued in April 2012. The Colonial Hybrid issue of $700 million was redeemed in two equal tranches, $350 million 
in April 2012 and $350 million in November 2011.  

(7) Regulatory Expected Loss (pre tax) using stressed loss given default assumptions associated with the loan portfolio in excess of eligible credit provisions (collective 

provision and general reserve for credit losses net of tax and individually assessed provision pre tax) are deducted 50% from both Tier One and Tier Two Capital. 

(8) APRA approved Innovative Tier One Capital instruments (PERLS III and Trust Preferred Securities 2003 and 2006).  

(9) Non-controlling interest classified as Tier One Innovative Capital under Basel II regulations. Comprised predominantly of ASB Perpetual Preference Shares of NZ$550 

million issued by New Zealand subsidiary entities. These shares are non-redeemable and carry limited voting rights. 

(10) Comprises PERLS IV $1,465 million (less costs) issued by the Bank in July 2007 and PERLS V $2,000 million (less costs) issued by the Bank in October 2009. These 

       have been approved by APRA as Tier One Non-Innovative Capital instruments. 

46 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

30/06/12  31/12/11  30/06/11 Regulatory Capital$M  $M  $M  Tier One Capital Deductions - 100%Goodwill and other intangibles (excluding software) (1)(8,581)(8,546)(8,306)Capitalised expenses(263)(240)(252)Capitalised computer software costs(1,700)(1,480)(1,297)Defined benefit superannuation plan surplus (2)--(53)General reserve for credit losses top up (3)(209)(183)(132)Deferred tax(548)(383)(287)Tier One Capital deductions - 100%(11,301)(10,832)(10,327)Tier One Capital Deductions - 50% (4)Equity investments in other entities (5)(612)(638)(639)Equity investments in non-consolidated subsidiaries (net of intangibles) (6)(629)(594)(526)Expected impairment losses (before tax) in excess of eligible credit provisions (net of deferred tax) (7)(630)(646)(817)Other deductions (5)(113)(66)(74)Tier One Capital deductions - 50%(1,984)(1,944)(2,056)Total Tier One Capital Deductions(13,285)(12,776)(12,383)Fundamental Tier One Capital after Deductions23,66422,83721,575Residual Tier One CapitalInnovative Tier One CapitalNon-cumulative preference shares (8)2,6252,6262,598Non-controlling Interests (9)505505505Eligible loan capital9898128Total Innovative Tier One Capital3,2283,2293,231Non-Innovative Residual Tier One Capital (10)3,4073,4073,407Total Residual Tier One Capital6,6356,6366,638Total Tier One Capital30,29929,47328,213As at 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital Adequacy (continued) 

Capital Management 

(1) Represents the after tax collective provisions and general reserve for credit losses of banking entities in the Group (including Bankwest) which operate under the Basel 

II Standardised methodology. 

(2) APRA allows only 45% of asset revaluation reserve to be included in Tier Two Capital. 

(3) APRA requires these Lower Tier Two note and bond issues to be included as if they were unhedged. 

(4) For regulatory capital purposes, Lower Tier Two note and bond issues are amortised by 20% of the original amount during each of the last five years to maturity. 

(5) Represents 50% Tier One and 50% Tier Two Capital deductions under Basel II rules. 

(1) APRA requires Risk Weighted Assets amounts that are derived from IRB risk weight functions be multiplied by a factor of 1.06. 

(2) RWA include the consolidation of Bankwest which operates under the Basel II Standardised methodology. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

47 

30/06/12 31/12/1130/06/11 Regulatory Capital$M $M $M Regulatory Capital: Tier Two CapitalUpper Tier Two CapitalPrudential general reserve for credit losses (net of tax) (1)595631620Asset revaluation reserve (2)888686Upper Tier Two note and bond issues358368336Other176151124Total Upper Tier Two Capital1,2171,2361,166Lower Tier Two CapitalLower Tier Two note and bond issues (3) (4)3,7264,3145,728Holding of own Lower Tier Two Capital(20)(18)(89)Total Lower Tier Two Capital3,7064,2965,639Tier Two Capital Deductions50% Deductions from Tier Two Capital (5)(1,984)(1,944)(2,056)Total Tier Two Capital2,9393,5884,749Total Capital33,23833,06132,962As at30/06/12 31/12/1130/06/11Risk Weighted Assets$M $M $M Credit riskSubject to advanced IRB approachCorporate49,33145,98339,180SME Corporate22,31922,15522,471SME Retail4,0714,4864,435Sovereign3,0033,2012,517Bank7,6197,9257,216Residential mortgage54,54553,84455,709Qualifying revolving retail6,7036,4916,398Other retail8,4628,1167,253Impact of the regulatory scaling factor (1)9,3639,1328,711Total risk weighted assets subject to advanced IRB approach165,416161,333153,890Specialised lending36,14136,91535,990Subject to Standardised approachCorporate10,4309,9508,048SME Corporate6,5806,8037,389SME Retail4,8364,2304,461Sovereign107308103Bank1,2431,3031,238Residential mortgage25,70524,66023,515Other retail2,5592,6272,574Other assets3,2405,2154,751Total risk weighted assets subject to standardised approach54,70055,09652,079Securitisation2,8332,6952,670Equity exposures2,3392,4072,113Total risk weighted assets for credit risk exposures261,429258,446246,742Traded market risk4,8423,1053,162Interest rate risk in the banking book 9,76511,5259,699Operational risk26,75124,62922,108Total risk weighted assets (2)302,787297,705281,711As at 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Description of Business Environment  

Australia 

Financial Services 

Financial  services  providers  in  Australia  offer  household  and 
business  customers  a  wide  range  of  products  and  services 
encompassing  retail,  business  and  institutional  banking,  funds 
management,  superannuation, 
risk 
management  and  stockbroking.  The  domestic  competitive 
landscape  includes  the  four  major  banks,  regional  banks, 
building  societies  and  credit  unions,  foreign  retail  banks,  local 
and  global  investment  banks,  fund  managers,  private  equity 
firms, insurance companies, brokers and third party distributors. 

investment, 

insurance, 

Banking 

While  the  Australian  economy  has  performed  well  relative  to 
developed  economies  over  the  past  twelve  months,  ongoing 
uncertainty in global markets has resulted in some early signs of 
weakness.  The  Reserve  Bank  of  Australia  has  proactively 
sought  to  address  domestic  pressures  by  reducing  the  official 
cash rate by 1.25% to 3.50% during the financial year. 

The domestic banking environment has not been immune to the 
broader  economic 
conditions,  encountering  headwinds 
characterised  by  strong  competition,  muted  credit  growth, 
elevated  funding  costs,  and  fragile  business  and  consumer 
confidence. 

These  challenging  operating  conditions  have  resulted 
in 
subdued growth in operating income across the banking sector. 
Despite  these  difficult  conditions,  major  banks  have  retained 
strong capital and liquidity positions, which should see them well 
placed to meet upcoming Basel III requirements. 

In  the  short  to  medium  term,  significant  challenges  and 
uncertainties  remain  for  both  the  domestic  and  global  financial 
systems. Domestic credit growth is likely to remain subdued and 
strong  levels  of  competition  are  likely  to  continue.  Finally, 
concerns about sovereign debt credit risk, particularly in Europe, 
continue to impact global financial markets. This is expected to 
result  in  a  continuation  of  elevated  funding  costs,  conservative 
capital and liquidity settings. 

Funds Management 

Market  volatility  and  investor  uncertainty  continues  to  create  a 
challenging  business  environment.  However,  the  long  term 
growth outlook of the Australian funds management industry is 
strong,  underpinned  by 
in  compulsory 
the 
superannuation  contributions  from  9%  to  12%  by  the  2020 
financial  year.  Global  funds  management  is  also  expected  to 
continue to grow in the long term, driven by increasing wealth in 
developing countries. 

increase 

The  demand  for  simple,  transparent  and  lower  fee  products  is 
expected  to  continue  as  investors  shift  towards  cash  products 
focus  on  net-of-fee  performance.  Australia‟s  ageing 
and 
population  and 
for 
retirement  is  expected  to  drive  demand  for  products  which 
address market volatility, inflationary threats and longevity risks. 

income  streams 

the  requirement 

for 

Margin  pressure  within  the  funds  management  industry  will 
remain  as  a  result  of  investor  product  preferences  and  further 
regulatory  change,  which  is  expected  to  reduce  revenue  and 
increase  capital  requirements  and  costs.  Consolidation  is 
expected  to  continue  as  participants  seek  scale  and  expand 
capabilities to counteract these impacts. 

Insurance 

Australian  insurance  market  growth  is  expected  to  continue, 
largely  driven  by  greater  consumer  awareness  and  access 

48 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

through a wider array of channels. Bancassurance, master trusts 
and industry funds continue to be the strongest areas of growth, 
with a particular focus on direct channels. To meet the growing 
needs  of  consumers,  insurance  manufacturers  are  placing  a 
greater emphasis on technology and service efficiency. 

There  continues  to  be  a  large  number  of  ongoing  government 
reviews and regulatory consultations in both the life and general 
insurance  industries.  The  proposed  changes  are  expected  to 
increase insurance coverage and improve transparency of policy 
information. 

is  being 

Advice-based  product  profitability 
impacted  by 
increasing  lapse  rates  and  loss  ratios.  Lapse  rates  have  been 
increasing due to heightened competition and advisers seeking 
to replace lost income in light of regulatory changes, while loss 
ratios  have  been  increasing  due  to  the  current  economic 
environment, 
recognition  and 
strengthening of reserves amongst competitors. 

increased 

leading 

loss 

to 

The  general  insurance  market  remains  highly  competitive  and 
concentrated  amongst  a  few  large  players.  The  industry  has 
continued  to  be  impacted  by  significant  global  weather  events 
over  the  last  12  months,  and  as  a  result,  many  insurers  are 
implementing  premium  rate  increases  and  moving  to  minimise 
reinsurance and claims costs where possible. 

New Zealand 

The Group's banking activities in New Zealand are conducted by 
ASB  Bank  and  also  by  the  New  Zealand  branch  of  CBA.  The 
Group's  insurance  activities  in  New  Zealand  are  conducted  by 
Sovereign Assurance Company. 

Competition  in  the  New  Zealand  banking  sector  remains 
intense,  with  the  four  main  banks  being  owned  by  Australian 
parents and accounting for 90% of the total banking system. In 
addition,  Kiwibank,  the  New  Zealand  Government  and  New 
Zealand  Post  owned  and  operated  bank  launched  in  March 
2002, continues to compete aggressively in the retail sector. 

Wholesale  funding  costs  remain  elevated,  and  competition  for 
retail  deposits  remains  strong  as  banks  continue  to  secure 
increased  domestic  funding  whilst  at  the  same  time  reducing 
reliance on wholesale funding. 

During most  of the financial  year, there continued to  be a shift 
towards  higher  margin  variable  rate  home  loans  from  lower 
margin fixed rate home loans. 

NZ economic activity over the financial year was underpinned by 
the boost from the Rugby World Cup, higher milk production as 
a result of excellent weather conditions on pasture growth, and 
post-earthquake  rebuilding.  There  are  encouraging  signs  of  a 
recovery in domestic demand taking place. 

Financial System Regulation in Australia 

Australia has, by international standards, a high quality financial 
system  which  regulates 
financial  products  and  services 
consistently,  regardless  of  the  type  of  financial  institutions 
providing them. 

the  Australian  Securities  and 

The  main  regulators  of  financial  services  in  Australia  are  the 
Reserve Bank of Australia, the Australian Prudential Regulation 
Authority, 
Investments 
Commission,  the  Australian  Transaction  Reports  and  Analysis 
the  Australian  Competition  and  Consumer 
Centre  and 
Commission. Each agency has system-wide responsibilities for 
the different objectives of government oversight of the financial 
system.  A  description  of  these  agencies  and  their  general 
responsibilities and functions is set out on the next page. 

 
 
 
 
Description of Business Environment 

The  Reserve  Bank  of  Australia  (RBA)  is  responsible  for 
monetary  policy,  financial system stability and  regulation  of the 
payments  system.  The  RBA  also  administers  sanctions 
implemented  via  the  Banking  (Foreign  Exchange)  Regulations 
1959. 

The  Australian  Prudential  Regulation  Authority  (APRA)  has 
responsibility  for  the  prudential  supervision  of  banks,  building 
insurance 
societies  and  credit  unions, 
companies, 
funds 
(pension  funds).  Unless  an  institution  is  authorised  under  the 
Banking  Act  1959  or  exempted  by  APRA,  it  is  prohibited  from 
engaging in the general business of deposit-taking. 

friendly  societies  and  superannuation 

life  and  general 

The Australian Securities  and  Investments Commission  (ASIC) 
has  responsibility  for  regulating  and  enforcing  Company  and 
financial  services  laws  that  protect  consumers,  investors  and 
creditors, including the Corporations Act 2001. The Corporations 
Act 2001 provides for a single licensing regime for sales, advice 
and dealings in financial products and services, consistent and 
financial  product  disclosure  and  a  single 
comparable 
authorisation  procedure  for  financial  exchanges  and  clearing 
and  settlement  facilities.  ASIC  is  also  responsible  for  the 
National  Consumer  Credit  Protection  Act  and  the  responsible 
lending framework it imposes upon credit providers.  

The  Australian  Transaction  Reports  and  Analysis  Centre 
(AUSTRAC)  has  responsibility  for  overseeing  compliance  with 
the  Anti-Money  Laundering  and  Counter  Terrorism  Financing 
Act 2006 and the Financial Transaction Reports Act 1988. As a 
provider of financial services in Australia and internationally, the 
Group is committed to the principles of the Financial Action Task 
Force  as  the  international  standard  setter  for  anti-money 
laundering and counter-terrorism financing efforts.  

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) 
promotes  competition  and  fair  trade  to  benefit  consumers, 
business  and  the  community  through  the  administration  of  the 
Trade Practices Act 1974. 

(DFAT),  a 

In addition to the above, the Department of Foreign Affairs and 
federal  government  department,  has 
Trade 
responsibility 
to 
decisions of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) relating 
to sanctions, including the freezing of terrorist assets. 

legislation  giving  effect 

implementing 

for 

Supervisory Arrangements 

internal ratings-based approach to credit risk and the advanced 
measurement  approach  to  operational  risk  for  the  purposes  of 
calculating capital requirements under the Basel II Framework. 

(ii) Funding and Liquidity 

APRA  exercises  liquidity  control  by  requiring  each  bank  to 
develop  a  liquidity management strategy that  is  appropriate for 
itself. Each policy is formally approved by APRA. A key element 
of the Group‟s liquidity policy is the holding of high quality liquid 
assets to meet liquidity requirements. 

The  liquid  assets  held  are  assets  that  are  available  for 
repurchase by the RBA (over and above those required to meet 
the  Real-time  Gross  Settlement  obligations,  Certificates  of 
Deposit / Bills of other banks and overnight interbank loans) and 
liquid  marketable  securities.  More  detailed 
other  highly 
comments  on  the  Group‟s  liquidity  and  funding  risks  are 
provided in Note 40 to the Financial Statements. 

(iii) Large Credit Exposures 

APRA  requires  banks  to  ensure that,  other  than  in  exceptional 
circumstances,  individual  credit  exposures  to  non-bank,  non-
government  clients  do  not  exceed  25%  of  the  capital  base. 
Exposure to unrelated ADIs is not to exceed 50% of the capital 
base.  Prior  consultation  must  be  held  with  APRA  if  a  bank 
intends to exceed set thresholds. For information on the Group‟s 
large exposures refer to Note 38 to the Financial Statements. 

(iv) Ownership and Control 

In  pursuit  of  transparency  and  risk  minimisation,  the  Financial 
Sector  (Shareholding)  Act  1998  embodies  the  principle  that 
regulated  financial  institutions  should  maintain  widespread 
ownership.  The  Act  applies  a  common  15%  shareholding  limit 
for ADIs, insurance companies and their holding companies. 

The  Commonwealth  Treasurer  has  the  power  to  approve 
acquisitions exceeding 15% where this is in the national interest, 
taking  into  account  advice  from  the  ACCC  in  relation  to 
competition  considerations  and  APRA  on  prudential  matters. 
The  Treasurer  may  also  delegate  approval  powers  to  APRA 
where one financial institution seeks to acquire another. 

The Government‟s present policy is that mergers among the four 
major  banks  will  not  be  permitted  until  the  Government  is 
satisfied that competition from new and established participants 
in the financial industry has increased sufficiently. 

The  Bank  and  its  subsidiary  Bank  of  Western  Australia  are 
Authorised Deposit-taking Institutions (ADIs) under the Banking 
Act 1959 and are subject to prudential regulation by APRA.  

Proposals for foreign acquisition of Australian banks are subject 
to approval by the Treasurer under the Foreign Acquisitions and 
Takeovers Act 1975. 

In  carrying  out  its  prudential  responsibilities,  APRA  closely 
monitors  the  operations  of  banks  to  ensure  that  they  operate 
within  the  prudential  framework  and  that  sound  management 
practices are followed.  

APRA‟s broader supervision programme includes a combination 
of on-site thematic reviews, regular engagement with the Board 
and senior management of individual institutions and prudential 
consultation and reviews of regular statistical returns reported by 
individual institutions. 

In  addition,  APRA  has  established  arrangements  under  which 
each  bank‟s  external  auditor  reports  to  APRA  regarding 
observance  of  prudential  standards  and  other  supervisory 
requirements. 

The  prudential  framework  applied  by  APRA  is  embodied  in  a 
series of prudential standards and other requirements including: 

(i) Capital Adequacy 

APRA has approved the Bank‟s application to use the advanced 

(v) Banks‟ Association with Non-Banks 

There are formal guidelines (including maximum exposure limits) 
that  control  investments  and  dealings  with  subsidiaries  and 
associates.  A  bank‟s  equity  associations  with  other  institutions 
should normally be in the field of finance. APRA has expressed 
an unwillingness to allow subsidiaries of a bank to exceed a size 
which  would  endanger the stability  of the  parent.  No  bank can 
enter  into  any  agreements  or  arrangements  for  the  sale  or 
disposal  of  its  business,  or  effect  a  reconstruction  or  carry  on 
business in partnership  with  another  bank,  without the consent 
of the Treasurer. 

(vi) Fit and Proper and Governance  

ADIs are subject to APRA‟s “Fit and Proper” and “Governance” 
prudential  standards.  ADIs  are  required  to  implement  a  Board 
approved Fit and Proper policy covering minimum requirements 
for the fitness and proprietary of their responsible persons which 
include designated members of senior management. ADIs also 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

49 

 
 
 
Description of Business Environment 

Supervisory Arrangements (continued)  

Registrable Superannuation Entity (RSE) licence from APRA. 

including 

standards 

Life insurance and general insurance companies are subject to 
prudential 
risk 
management  and  reinsurance  arrangements.  Compliance  with 
APRA 
returns, 
independent  actuarial  investigations,  auditor  certification  and 
supervisory inspections. 

capital  adequacy, 

is  monitored 

regulation 

through 

regular 

Life and general insurance companies are also subject to similar 
Fit and Proper and Governance requirements as those applying 
to ADIs. 

Accounting Policies and Estimates 

The  Group‟s  accounting  policies  including  critical  accounting 
policies  and  estimates  are  set  out  in  Note  1  to  the  Financial 
Statements. 

have  to  comply  with  APRA‟s  Governance  prudential  standard, 
which  sets  out  requirements  for  Board  size  and  composition, 
independence  of  directors,  executive  remuneration  and  other 
APRA governance matters.  

(vii) Supervision of Non-Bank Group Entities 

The  Australian  life  insurance  company  subsidiaries,  general 
insurance  company  subsidiaries  and 
the  superannuation 
trustees of the Group also come within the supervisory review of 
APRA. 

APRA‟s prudential supervision of both life insurance and general 
insurance  companies  is  exercised  through  the  setting  of 
minimum standards for solvency and financial strength to ensure 
obligations  to  policyholders  can  be  met.  Trustees  operating 
APRA  regulated superannuation  entities  are  required to  hold a 

50 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
Sustainability 

Building a Sustainable Business 

2. Responsible Financial Services 

For  the  Group,  sustainability  means  building  a  successful 
business  today,  while  ensuring  creation  of  long-term  value  for 
the  Group‟s  customers,  people,  shareholders  and  the  wider 
community. 

The Group‟s approach to sustainability is closely connected to its 
strategic  priorities  -  developing  world-leading 
technology, 
creating  a  vibrant customer focused  culture,  and maintaining a 
strong and flexible  balance sheet. Over  the  years, the Group‟s 
sustainability  programmes  and  initiatives  have  enabled  the 
Group  to  excel  in  customer  service,  develop  a  diverse  and 
talented workforce and contribute to the community, whilst also 
delivering superior returns to shareholders.  

Focusing  on  sustainability  has  allowed  the  Group  to  also 
successfully  manage  Environment,  Social  and  Governance 
(ESG)  risks  and  opportunities  that  arise  in  a  rapidly  changing 
operating environment.  

Over the past year, the Group has worked with both internal and 
external  stakeholders 
to  create  an  updated  sustainability 
framework, endorsed by the Board, to help the Group respond 
most  effectively to  the material  issues facing the  business  and 
industry. 

The Sustainability framework has five key focus areas: 

The  Group‟s  vision  is  to  be  Australia‟s  finest  financial  services 
organisation  by  excelling  in  customer  service.  Its  products  and 
services  aim  to  achieve  this  goal  responsibly.  That  means  not 
only delivering high quality financial solutions, but also delivering 
the  right  solutions  to  the  right  people,  with  a  strong  focus  on 
customers‟ individual needs. 

Customer Service Excellence and Innovation 

In  2008,  the  Core  Banking  Modernisation  programme  was 
launched,  enabling  the  Group  to  better  serve  customers‟ 
evolving  needs  through  world-leading  technology.  During  the 
reporting  period, 
the  Group  achieved  some  significant 
milestones, including real-time banking for both retail and small 
business  customers;  such  that  merchants  and  their  customers 
can now see transaction details online and in real time, 365 days 
a year.  

Over  the  last  12  months,  the  Group  launched  CommBank 
Kaching,  a  revolutionary  mobile  phone  application  that  offers 
fast,  safe  and  easy  mobile  banking.  Customers  can  now  pay 
anyone,  anytime,  anywhere  from  their  iPhone  or  Android 
smartphone  using  CommBank  Kaching.  Since  its  launch  in 
December  2011,  over  400,000  Netbank  customers  have 
downloaded the application. 

1. Sustainable Business Practices 

Tailored Customer Service for Indigenous Communities 

the  business 

The  Group  has  embedded  sustainable  business  practices 
through  strong  governance,  well 
across 
established  management  systems,  responsible  procurement 
and transparent reporting. 

Strong Corporate Governance 

The Board has created a comprehensive Corporate Governance 
framework, which complies with the principles put forward by the 
ASX Corporate Governance Council. 

Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Risk 
Management Systems 

The Group seeks to minimise  any activities that could  result  in 
risk to the environment, its people, the community, the Group‟s 
customers  or  good  corporate  governance.  The  Group‟s  formal 
Risk  Appetite  Statement  outlines  ESG  risks  and  provides 
guidance on how to respond to them. 

the 

launched 

the  Group 

In  2009, 
Indigenous  Customer 
Assistance  Line  (ICAL),  the  first  of  its  kind  in  Australia.  ICAL 
provides tailored banking services to the Group‟s Aboriginal and 
Torres Strait Islander customers. It includes a dedicated team of 
banking  professionals  who  provide  much-needed  banking 
services to a number of remote communities in Cape York, the 
Northern  Territory  and  the  Kimberley. ICAL  currently  takes 
around 1,500 calls each week.  

In  April  2012,  the  Group  helped  increase  the  number  of 
accredited  Indigenous  financial  counsellors  in  Australia,  with 
nine  new  Aboriginal  and  Torres  Strait  Islander  graduates  from 
Palm  Island,  Yarrabah,  Cairns  and  Thursday  Island.  Those 
counsellors  successfully  completed  the  Diploma  of  Community 
Services  (Financial  Counselling).  The  course  is  the  result  of  a 
partnership  between  the  Indigenous  Consumer  Assistance 
Network (ICAN) and the Commonwealth Bank. 

Responsible Procurement 

Supporting Customers in Financial Difficulty  

In  May  2012,  the  Group  developed  a  new  way  to  assess 
sustainability  risks  and  supplier  performance  by  leveraging  its 
centralised  procurement  system.  Suppliers  tendering  for  work 
are  required  to  explain  their  sustainability  practices  around 
Occupational  Health  and  Safety  (OH&S),  risk  management, 
human 
investment  and 
environmental performance as part of the selection process. 

rights,  governance,  community 

The Group continues to provide support in uncertain times to its 
diverse customer base. Over the last 12 months, the Group has 
expanded  its  Customer  Assist  team  to  100  members.  The 
team‟s Case Management Officers provide personalised support 
to  customers  who  are  experiencing  hardship.  The  Group  also 
supports low income earners and the not-for-profit sector with a 
wide range of fee-free and discounted financial services. 

Transparent Reporting 

Customer Satisfaction 

Transparency of the Group‟s sustainability practices and its role 
in the wider community are essential to the way the Group does 
business.  The  Group  uses  a  variety  of  reporting  materials  to 
communicate this information to a wide range of stakeholders.  

The  Group  is  well  on  track  towards  achieving  its  goal  of 
providing  superior  customer  service  to  the  Group‟s  customers. 
The  Group‟s  success  is  reflected  in  the  customer  satisfaction 
indicators included in the sustainability scorecard. 

Further information regarding the Group‟s sustainability practices 
can be accessed at commbank.com.au/sustainability. 

Further information about customer satisfaction can be found in 
the CEO‟s Statement. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

51 

 
 
 
Sustainability 

3. Engaged and Talented People 

The  Group  strives  to  deliver  excellence  in  customer  service 
through  engaged  people  who  are  empowered,  motivated  and 
skilled to deliver. In the reporting period, new programmes and 
initiatives  to  attract,  foster  and  retain  a  diverse,  engaged  and 
talented workforce have continued to be rolled out.  

Diversity Strategy  

The  diversity  strategy  endorsed  by  the  CEO  and  Executive 
Committee, has four pillars:  

 
 
 
 

Respect and inclusion; 
Diversity in leadership; 
Diversity support; and 
Adaptable work practices.  

Gender Diversity as a Lead Diversity Indicator  

In  2010,  the  Group  demonstrated  its  commitment  to  gender 
diversity by setting a public target for women‟s representation at 
senior levels; with a commitment to increase the representation 
of  women  in  Executive  Manager  positions  and  above  from 
26.6%  in  December  2009  to  35%  by  December  2014.  The 
Group  progressed  towards  this  target,  with  30.9%  of  senior 
management  positions  being  held  by  women  as  at  30  June 
the  Group  we  now  have  60.5%  women 
2012.  Across 
employees. 

In  January  2012,  the  Group  was  awarded  the  prestigious 
Catalyst Award  for  its culture change  programme  and  diversity 
initiatives,  making  the  Group  only  the  second  Australian 
organisation to win this global award in its 27-year history. The 
Group‟s  commitment  to  diversity  was  further  recognised  by 
Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency (EOWA) 
with an Employer of Choice for Women (EOCFW) citation.  

Integrating HR Systems 

The Group continues to use technology to improve its people‟s 
productivity.  The  new  HR  platform,  integrates  a  number  of 
people  processes  to  help  actively  and  consistently  manage 
capabilities and careers as well as support a culture connected 
to customer satisfaction goals.  

The new HR platform now includes Performance Management, 
Remuneration  Review,  Talent  and  Succession  Management 
and Volunteering modules. Learning Management, Recruitment 
and  On-Boarding  are  scheduled  to  be  included  in  the  next 
financial year. 

Key People Indicators 

The  Group  has  continued  to  develop  a  vibrant,  customer-
focused and high integrity culture, recording positive results for a 
number of indicators listed on the sustainability scorecard.  

4. Community Contribution and Action 

The  Group  has  a  long  and  proud  history  of  supporting  local 
communities  across  Australia 
through  mutually  beneficial 
partnerships  and  remains  committed  to  building  a  sustainable 
future for generations to come.  

An Additional $100 million Commitment to the Community 

In  September  2011,  the  Group  announced  it  would  add  to  its 
existing  programmes  by  increasing  its  investment  in  Australian 

52 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

communities by $100 million over the next ten years. This will be 
achieved by: 

 
Extending the StartSmart financial literacy programmes; 
  Matching staff contributions to the Staff Community Fund, 

dollar-for-dollar; and 
Introducing more staff volunteering activities. 

 

Building a Financially Literate Society 

The  Group  has  a  proud  tradition  of  supporting  generations  of 
young Australians to learn about how to save and manage their 
money. In February 2012, the Commonwealth Bank Foundation 
increased  its  reach  with  the  launch  of  StartSmart  Pathways  - 
bringing  money  management  to  life  for  students  in  Vocational 
Education and Training (VET). StartSmart is the largest face-to-
face financial literacy programme of its kind in the world. In the 
reporting  period,  the  Group  provided  StartSmart  education 
sessions to 235,735 students. 

Contributing to Society through the Group’s Workforce  

The  Staff  Community  Fund  is  Australia's  largest  and  longest-
running employee contribution programme. The Group matches 
its people‟s contributions to the Fund, dollar for dollar. As at 30 
June 2012, over 10,000 people across the Group are donating 
to the Fund. In 2012 alone, $2 million in grants will be awarded 
by the Group to youth-focused local organisations.  

The  Group  also  encourages  and  supports  its  people  to 
contribute  their  time  and  skills  to  the  community,  by  creating 
skilled  and  general  volunteering  opportunities  with  community 
groups.  

In the reporting period, the Group became an active member of 
Jawun, a partnership of organisations connecting skilled people 
with Indigenous communities to share knowledge and expertise. 
In 2012, the Group sent secondees to Redfern, La Perouse and 
Cape York to support Jawun‟s mission to promote self-reliance, 
entrepreneurial  activity  and  business  planning  among 
Indigenous people.  

Closing the Gap - Working with Indigenous Australia 

The  Group‟s  Indigenous  strategy  aims  to  create  social  and 
economic opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 
people through education, employment, enterprise support and 
appropriate banking services. The Group works with its partners 
to  promote  Indigenous  culture  within  the  Group  and  in  the 
broader  Australian  community  by  actively  participating 
in 
programmes  and  initiatives  such  as  National  Aborigines  and 
Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) week. 

As  part  of  its  Indigenous  employment  strategy,  the  Group  has 
created  354  career  opportunities  for  Aboriginal  &  Torres  Strait 
Islander Australians, exceeding its original target of creating 350 
additional opportunities.  The  Group  continues to  partner  with a 
wide range of organisations to help Indigenous people achieve 
their  potential.  For  example,  the  launch  of  „Walkabout  your 
Business‟ with Ambrose Business Solutions, Darwin, has helped 
Aboriginal  and  Torres  Strait  Islander  entrepreneurs  establish 
and  successfully  operate  businesses  in  remote  communities. 
The  Group  also  launched  the  „Desert  Hub  Social  Impact‟ 
through  Enterprise  in  Alice  Springs  to  link,  grow  and  develop 
social enterprises in the desert regions of Central Australia. 

 
 
 
 
Sponsorship Activities  

This  year  marks  the  Group‟s  25th  anniversary  of  sponsoring 
Cricket  Australia.  For  the  third  year  running,  the  Group 
supported local cricket clubs and associations at the community 
level  through  its  Grants  for  Grassroots  Cricket™  programme, 
which donated $385,000 in cash and equipment to clubs across 
Australia. 

Once  again,  the  Group  was  a  major  sponsor  of  Clean  Up 
Australia Day and the Australian of the Year Awards. The Group 
also continues to support important health initiatives, helping to 
raise funds for organisations such as the Breast Cancer Institute 
of  Australia  and  the  Prostate  Cancer  Foundation  of  Australia. 
Finally  the  Group  continues  to  bring  the  arts  to  all  Australians 
through  enduring  partnerships  with  Opera  Australia,  Australian 
Chamber  Orchestra  and  the  Bangarra  Dance  Theatre,  and 
within the environmental arena, supports the Great Barrier Reef 
Foundation and Clean Up Australia. 

 Find out more about the Group‟s activities in the community at 
commbank.com.au/community. 

5. Environmental Stewardship 

The Group continues to measure and reduce its environmental 
footprint,  and  provide  smart  solutions  to  help  customers  and 
employees do the same.  

The Group  is  on track  to meet its target  of  a  20%  reduction  in 
carbon  emissions  from  2008-09  levels  by  June  2013.  This 
represents  a  reduction  of  34,550  tonnes  of  carbon.  Over  the 
past three years, the Group‟s emissions have steadily declined, 
reflected 
the  sustainability  scorecard.  Current  carbon 
reduction initiatives include: 

in 

 

 

 

Consolidating  commercial  buildings,  including  relocating 
approximately  6,500  employees  to  Commonwealth  Bank 
Place  in  Sydney,  saving  approximately  12,700  tonnes  of 
carbon emissions (CO2-e) per annum; 
Implementing  a  green  refresh  lighting  project  to  replace 
inefficient  lighting  in  approximately  950  branches  across 
Australia,  saving  approximately  8,000  tonnes  CO2-e  per 
annum; and 
Implementing  a  green  refresh  heating,  ventilation  and  air 
conditioning  (HVAC)  project  in  retail  and  commercial 
buildings,  saving  approximately  12,000  tonnes  CO2-e  per 
annum. 

Indirect  Impact  -  Managing  the  Carbon  Intensity  of  the 
Group’s Loan Book 

The Group acknowledges that it may have an indirect impact on 
the  environment  through  the  provision  of  financial  services  to 

Sustainability 

customers  in  environmentally  sensitive  industries.  To  minimise 
the Group‟s impact, the  Credit  Risk Policy continues  to  require 
that  environmental  risks  be  assessed  at  key  stages  in  the 
lending  process,  using  environmental  questionnaires  and 
independent  assessments,  as  well  as  checking  the  customers‟ 
licensing 
own  environmental  policies,  processes  and 
requirements. 

Climate Change Opportunities  

As society moves to a low-carbon economy, the Group‟s Carbon 
Solutions  Group  continues  to  help  customers  manage  their 
carbon  risks  and  capture  opportunities  by  allowing  them  to 
leverage the  Group‟s core  capabilities  in financing,  trading  and 
distribution.  The  Group  works  with  market-leading  companies, 
with  expertise  in  a  wide  range  of  energy-related  sectors  to 
deliver innovative and integrated solutions to its customers. The 
Group‟s  commodities  team  also  continues  to  actively  trade  a 
range  of  environmental  products,  including  Renewable  Energy 
Certificates.  

The Group has been a senior investor in renewable and clean 
energy projects in Australia and New Zealand since 2004. As at 
30  June  2012,  its  single  asset  loan  facilities  to  clean  and 
renewable  generation  companies  increased  to  approximately 
71%  of  total  exposure  in  this  sector  (measured  by  Megawatt 
(MW) capacity), compared to 59% last year. 

The  Group  remains  an  active  member  of  the  United  Nations 
Environment Programme for Financial Institutions (UNEPFI) and 
United Nations Global Compact. 

In October 2011, the Group submitted its annual response to the 
National  Greenhouse  and  Energy  Reporting  (NGER)  scheme, 
and  published  its Energy Efficiency  Opportunities  (EEO)  report 
in  December  2011.  Once  again,  the  Group  also  voluntarily 
submitted its response to the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) 
in May 2012.  

Further Development 

The  Group  remains  committed  to  delivering  long-term  value  to 
its  customers,  people,  shareholders  and  the  community.  The 
Group  does  this  by  continuing  to  monitor  all  its  business 
practices  against  its  sustainability  framework,  and  to  look  for 
ways that it can improve its sustainability results in all areas. 

information  on 

the  Group‟s  sustainability 
More  detailed 
programmes and initiatives will be available from October 2012 
at commbank.com.au/sustainability. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

53 

 
 
 
 
 
Sustainability 

Sustainability Scorecard (1) 

Customer Satisfaction 

Roy Morgan Research Main Financial Institution Customer 
Satisfaction (2) 
Rank 

DBM Business Financial Services Monitor (3) 
Rank 

Wealth Insights Platform Service Level Survey (4) 
Rank 

People 

Engagement 
Employee Engagement Index (5) 
Employee turnover (voluntary) (6) 

Diversity 
Women in Executive Manager and above roles (7) 

Safety and Well-being 
Lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) (8) 
Absenteeism (9) 

Environment 

Greenhouse Gas Emissions 
Scope 1 emissions (10) 
Scope 2 emissions (11) 
Scope 3 emissions (12) 

Financial Literacy Programmes 

School banking students (active) (13) 
StartSmart students booked (14) 

Units 

% 

% 
% 

% 

Rate 
Rate 

2012 

79.0 

2nd 

2011 

75.2 

4th 

7.3 
Equal 1st 

7.1 
Equal 2nd 

7.69 
2nd 

80 
12.90 

7.79 
1st 

n/a 
12.65 

2010 
Note 
75.6 

2nd 

7.0 
Equal 1st 

7.70 
1st 

n/a 
12.73 

30.9 

28.2 

26.3 

2.1 
6.2 

2.5 
6.0 

2.9 
5.9 

tCO2-e 
tCO2-e 
tCO2-e 

7,546 
118,852 
20,194 

9,835 
137,948 
22,885 

10,248 
142,218 
24,340 

191,416 
235,735 

140,280 
200,081 

92,997 
119,669 

(1) All metrics capture data from Australian domestic operations only (excluding Bankwest), unless otherwise stated. 

(2)  Roy  Morgan  Research  Main  Financial  Institution  (MFI)  Retail  Customer  Satisfaction.  Australian  population  14+,  %  “Very  Satisfied”  or  “Fairly  Satisfied”  with 
relationship with that MFI. 6-month rolling average to June 2010, 2011 and 2012. Note the institution definitions were updated in March 2012. The Ranking refers to 
the Group‟s position relative to the other three major Australian banks (Westpac, NAB and ANZ).  

(3) The average satisfaction of each financial institution‟s MFI business customers surveyed by DBM Business Financial Services Monitor. Respondents rate their overall 
relationship with that institution on a scale from 0 to 10 (0 is „Extremely Dissatisfied‟, 10 is „Extremely Satisfied‟). This is reported as a 6 month rolling average as at 30 
June. The ranking refers to the Group‟s position relative to the other three major Australian banks (Westpac, NAB, and ANZ).  

(4) The average score financial advisers give to the Colonial FirstChoice and FirstWrap platforms on a scale of 1-10 (1 is „Poor‟, 10 is „Excellent‟), in this survey. Ranking 
captures the relative position of both platforms compared with bank peer master trusts measured in the survey, based on the percentage of advisers giving 7-10 for 
overall satisfaction. Previously the Group reported the proportion of financial advisers giving the Colonial FirstChoice platform an overall score of 7-10. Comparatives 
have been restated using the average scores for the two platforms. 

(5) In 2012 the Group moved the people and culture survey administration to  a new provider. The index shows the proportion of employees replying 4 or 5 on the 

questions relating to satisfaction, retention, advocacy and pride on a scale of 1-5 (5 is „strongly agree‟, 1 is „strongly disagree‟). No prior year data is available. 

(6) Employee turnover refers to all voluntary exits of domestic, permanent employees as a percentage of the average domestic, permanent headcount (full-time, part-

time, job share or on extended leave). 

(7) Roles at the level of Executive Manager and above filled by women, in relation to the total permanent headcount as at 30 June, which captures permanent headcount 

(full-time, part-time, job share, on extended leave), and contractors (fixed term arrangements).  

(8) LTIFR is the reported number of occurrences of lost time arising from injury or disease that have resulted in an accepted workers compensation claim, for each 
million hours worked by domestic employees. This relates to domestic employees only (permanent, casual and those contractors paid directly by the Group). Data is 
complete  as  at  30  June  each  year,  however  it  is  updated  in  future  reports  due  to  late  reporting  of  incidents  that  occurred  during  the  year,  or  the  subsequent 
acceptance or rejection of claims made in the year. To reflect these changes, the 2011 comparative (previously 1.9) has been restated. In addition, the metric covers 
two additional business units, Custom Solutions and Colonial Property Management.  

(9) Absenteeism is the annualised figure as at 31 May each year. Absenteeism refers to the average number of sick leave days (and, for CommSec employees, carers‟ 
leave  days)  per  full-time  equivalent  (FTE), reported  by  domestic,  permanent  employees.  FTE  captures  domestic,  permanent  employees  (full-time,  part-time, job 
share or on extended leave). 

(10) Scope 1 carbon emissions relate to the consumption of gas and fuel (gasoline and diesel) by domestic retail and commercial properties, business use of domestic 
tool-of-trade vehicle fleet, dedicated bus services, business use of private vehicles, and business use of hire cars. Data was collected in line with NGER legislation 
requirements. 

(11) Scope 2 carbon emissions relate to the electricity by domestic retail and commercial properties and domestic ATMs. Due to the electricity billing cycle, 16% of 

2011/12 electricity data was estimated to meet publication deadlines. Data was collected in line with NGER legislation requirements. 

(12) Scope 3 carbon emissions relate to the upstream emissions related to Scope 1 and 2 emission sources. 

(13) The number of active school banking students as part of the Group‟s financial literacy programme. 

(14) The number of students booked to attend Commonwealth Bank Foundation StartSmart programmes. 

54 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Introduction 

framework 

This statement  outlines  the key  aspects  of  the  Commonwealth 
Bank‟s  corporate  governance  framework.  The  Board  has 
consistently  placed  great 
importance  on  good  corporate 
governance  practices  of the Group,  which  it  believes is  vital to 
the  Group‟s  well-being.  The  Board  has  adopted  a 
comprehensive 
of  Corporate  Governance 
Guidelines,  designed  to  properly  balance  performance  and 
conformance.  This  enables  the  Group  to  undertake,  in  an 
effective manner, the prudent risk-taking activities which are the 
basis of its business. The Guidelines and practices of the Group 
comply with the revised “Corporate Governance Principles and 
Recommendations”, dated 30 June 2010, released by the ASX 
Corporate Governance Council. 

Charter 

The  Board‟s  role  and  responsibilities  are  set  out  in  the  Board 
Charter. The responsibilities include: 

 

The  Group‟s  corporate  governance, 
establishment of Committees; 
  Oversight of business and affairs by: 

including 

the 

- 

- 

Establishing  with  management  and  approving  the 
strategies and financial objectives; 
Approving  major  corporate  and  capital  initiatives, 
capital  expenditure  acquisitions  and  divestments  in 
excess of limits delegated to management; 
Overseeing  the  establishment  of  appropriate  risk 
management systems including defining the Group‟s 
risk  appetite  and  establishing  appropriate  financial 
policies such as target capital and liquidity ratios; and 
-  Monitoring the  performance  of management and the 
the  Group  operates.

environment 

in  which 

- 

Corporate Governance 

 

 

 

Approving documents (including reports and statements to 
shareholders)  required  by  the  Bank‟s  Constitution  and 
relevant regulation; 
Approval of the Group‟s major HR policies and overseeing 
the development strategies for senior and high performing 
executives; and 
Employment of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). 

A copy of the Board Charter is available on the Group‟s website. 

The Board carries out the legal duties of its role in accordance 
with  the  Group‟s  values  of  trust,  honesty  and  integrity.  It  has 
regard  to  the  interests  of  the  Group‟s  customers,  people, 
shareholders  and  the  broader  community  in  which  the  Group 
operates at all times. 

Delegation of Authority 

The  Board  delegates  to  the  CEO  the  responsibility  to  achieve 
the  Group‟s  objective  of  creating  long  term  value  for  its 
in  customer  service  and 
shareholders 
providing  sustained  best-in-industry  performance  in  safety, 
community reputation and environmental impact. 

through  excelling 

The CEO is responsible for the day to day management of the 
business and maintaining a comprehensive set of management 
delegations  under 
the  Group‟s  Delegation  of  Authorities 
framework.  These  delegations  cover  commitments  around 
project  investment,  operational  expenditure  and  non-financial 
activities  and  processes.  They  are  designed  to  accelerate 
decision-making  and  improve  both  efficiency  and  customer 
service. 

An overview of the Group‟s Corporate Governance framework is 
outlined below. 

Corporate Governance Framework 

Independent advice 
and assurance 
available 

Board of Directors 

Delegated  
authority 

CEO 

Independent 
Directors 

CEO 

Accountable through 
reporting obligations 

Provides advice to the CEO 
on key decisions made 
under management 
delegation 

Management 
delegated 
authority 

<

Management 

<

delegation 

>

Provides advice to the CEO on 

>

key decisions made under 

management delegation 

CEO 

Board Committees 

Executive Committee 

Audit 

Risk 

Board Performance 
and Renewal 

People & 
Remuneration 
Committee 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

55 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance 

Composition 

There are currently eleven Directors of the Bank and details of their experience, qualifications, special responsibilities and attendance at 
meetings are set out in the Directors‟ Report. 

Membership of the Board and Committees is set out below: 

Board Membership 

Position Title 

Committee Membership 

Board Performance 
and Renewal 

People & 
Remuneration 

Audit 

Risk 

Chairman 

Chairman 

Member 

Director 

D J Turner  

I M Narev 
J A Anderson 

C R Galbraith 

J S Hemstritch  

L K Inman (1) 

S C H Kay 

B J Long 

A M Mohl 

F D Ryan 

H H Young 

Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Executive 
Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Non-Executive, 
Independent, 
Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Non-Executive, 
Independent 

Chief Executive Officer 
- 

- 
Member 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

Member 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 
- 

- 

- 

- 
- 

Member 

Member 
Member 

Member 

Member 

Chairman 

- 

- 

- 

Member 

Member 

Member 

Member 

Member 

- 

Chairman  Member 

Member 

- 

Member 

- 

- 

Member 

Member 

Member 

Chairman 

(1) Ms Inman was appointed to the Board with effect from 16 March 2011. She was elected at the Annual General Meeting held on 8 November 2011. 

Constitution  

The Constitution of the Bank specifies that: 

related  party  dealings  are  set  out  in  the  notes  to  the  Financial 
Statements as required by law. 

 

 

 

The CEO and any other Executive Directors are not eligible 
to stand for election as Chairman of the Bank; 
The number of Directors will not be less than nine nor more 
than thirteen (or such lower number as the Board may from 
time to time determine). The Board has decided that there 
will be eleven Directors; and 
At  each  Annual  General  Meeting  (AGM)  one  third  of 
Directors  (other  than  the  CEO)  will  retire  from  office  and 
may stand for re-election. 

The  Board  has  established  a  policy  which  limits  the  Directors‟ 
appointment  term  to  12  years  (except  where  succession 
planning for Chairman and appointment of Chairman requires an 
extended term). On appointment, the Chairman will be expected 
to be available for that position for five years. 

Independence 

The  Group‟s  Non-Executive  Directors  are  required  to  be 
independent of management and free of any business or other 
relationship  that  could  materially  interfere  with  the  exercise  of 
unfettered  and  independent  judgment.  The  Board  regularly 
assess  each  Director‟s 
to  ensure  ongoing 
compliance with this requirement. 

independence 

Directors are required to conduct themselves in accordance with 
the  ethical  policies  of  the  Group  and  be  meticulous  in  their 
disclosure of any material contract or relationship in accordance 
with  the  Corporations Act  2001. This  disclosure  extends  to  the 
interests of family companies and spouses. Directors must also 
strictly  adhere  to  the  participation  and  voting  constraints  in 
relation to matters in which they may have an interest in. Each 
Director may from time to time have personal dealings with the 
Group or be involved with other companies or professional firms 
which may have dealings with the Group. Details of offices held 
by  Directors  with  other  organisations  are  disclosed  in  the 
Directors'  Report  and  on  the  Group's  website.  Full  details  of 

56 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

All the current Non-Executive Directors of the Bank have been 
that 
assessed  as 
determination, the Board  has taken  into  account  (in  addition to 
the matters set out above): 

independent  Directors. 

reaching 

In 

The specific disclosures made by each Director; 

 
  Where  applicable,  the  related  party  dealings  referrable  to 

 

 

 

 

 

each Director; 
That no Director is, or has been associated directly with, a 
substantial shareholder of the Bank; 
That  no  Non-Executive  Director  has  ever  been  employed 
by the Bank or any of its subsidiaries; 
That no Director is, or has been associated with, a supplier, 
professional  adviser,  consultant  to  or  customer  of  the 
Group which is material under accounting standards; 

That  no  Non-Executive  Director personally carries  on any 
role for the Group otherwise that as a Director of the Bank; 
and 
That no Non-Executive Director has a material contractual 
relationship with the Group other than as a Director of the 
Bank. 

Education and Review 

in  an 

Directors  participate 
induction  programme  upon 
appointment and in a refresher programme on a regular basis. 
This programme of continuing education ensures that the Board 
is kept up to date with developments in the industry both locally 
and  globally.  It  also  includes  sessions  with  local  and  overseas 
experts in the particular fields relevant to the Group‟s operations. 

This  year  the  Board  also  received  an  external  assessment  of 
shareholders‟  perception  of  performance  and  strategy,  which 
helped update the Board on the Bank‟s external profile amongst 
investors. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Board Performance and Renewal Committee 

 

Vigorously debate and challenge management. 

Corporate Governance 

The  Non-Executive  Directors  meet  at  least  annually  without 
management,  in  a  forum  intended  to  allow  for  an  open 
discussion  on Board  and management  performance.  This is in 
addition  to  the  consideration  of  the  CEO‟s  performance  and 
remuneration  which  is  conducted  by  the  Board  in  the  CEO‟s 
absence. 

in  accordance  with 

Performance  evaluations 
the  above 
processes  have  been  undertaken  during  the  year.  Details  on 
management  performance  evaluations  are  contained  in  the 
Remuneration Report section of the Directors‟ Report, on pages 
69 to 88. 

the  Group‟s  corporate  governance  procedures. 
the  composition  and  effectiveness  of 

The  Board  Performance  and  Renewal  Committee  annually 
review 
It 
considers 
the 
Commonwealth Bank of Australia Board and also the boards of 
the  major  wholly  owned  subsidiaries.  It  also  considers  the 
effectiveness of the Board and ensures that the Board annually 
reviews  its  own  performance,  policies  and  practices.  These 
reviews  seek  to  identify  where  improvements  can  be  made  in 
Board  processes.  They  also  assess 
the  quality  and 
effectiveness  of  information  made  available  to  Directors.  The 
review  process  includes  a  performance  assessment  of  the 
Board  Committees  and  each  Director.  Every  two  years,  this 
process is also facilitated by an external consultant.   

The  Board  used  an  independent  facilitator  in  this  year‟s 
performance  review.  The  review  endorsed  the  current  Board 
and  Committee  processes  and  also  suggested  ways  in  which 
collective  and 
individual  Director  performance  might  be 
improved.  The  assessment  has  been considered  by  the Board 
and  individual  Director  assessments  have  been  diarised  with 
Directors by the Chairman of the Board.   

After considering the results of the performance assessment, the 
Board  will  determine  its  endorsement  of  the  Directors  to  stand 
for re-election at the next AGM. 

In accordance with the Board‟s policies, the Committee consists 
solely  of  independent  Non-Executive  Directors,  with  the  CEO 
attending the meeting by invitation. 

A  copy  of  the  Board  Performance  and  Renewal  Committee 
Charter is available on the Group‟s website. 

Selection of Directors 

The  Board  Performance  and  Renewal  Committee‟s  set  of 
criteria  for  Director  appointments  are  reviewed  annually  and 
adopted  by  the  Board.  These  are  aimed  at  creating  a  Board 
capable  of  challenging,  stretching  and  motivating  management 
to  achieve  sustained,  outstanding  performance  in  all  respects. 
The Group‟s aim is to ensure that any new appointee is able to 
contribute to the Board constituting a competitive advantage for 
the Group. Based on these criteria, each Director should: 

 
 

 

 

 

 

and 

exhibit 

outstanding 

performance 

Be capable of operating as part of an exceptional team; 
Contribute 
impeccable values; 
Be  capable  of  inputting  strongly  to  risk  management, 
strategy and policy; 
Provide  an  appropriate  mix  of  skills,  diversity  and 
experience required currently and for the future strategy of 
the Group; 
Be  excellently  prepared  and  receive  all  necessary 
education; 
Provide  important  and  significant  insights,  input  and 
questions to management from their  experience  and skill; 
and 

Professional  intermediaries  are  engaged  to  identify  a  diverse 
range  of  potential  candidates  for  appointment  as  Directors 
based on the identified criteria. 

The  Board  Performance  and  Renewal  Committee  will  assess 
the skills, experience and personal qualities of these candidates. 
It  will  also  take  into  consideration  other  attributes  including 
diversity  to  ensure  that  any  appointment  decisions  adequately 
reflect the environment in which the Group operates. Information 
on  the  Group‟s  diversity  strategy  more  generally  can  also  be 
found in the Sustainability section of this report on pages 51 to 
54. 

Candidates  who  are  considered  suitable  for  appointment  as 
Directors  by  the  Board  Performance  and  Renewal  Committee 
are  then  recommended  for  decision  by  the  Board  and,  if 
appointed, will stand for election at the next AGM, in accordance 
with the Constitution. 

The Chairman will provide a letter to all new Directors setting out 
the  terms  of  appointment  and  relevant  Board  policies.  These 
include  time  commitment,  code  of  ethics  and  continuing 
education. All current Directors have been provided with a letter 
confirming the terms of their appointment. A copy of the form of 
the appointment letter is available on the Group‟s website.  

Policies 

Board  policies  relevant  to  the  composition  of  Committees  and 
functions of Directors include: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The  Board  will  consist  of  a  majority  of  independent  Non-
Executive Directors; 
The  Board  Performance  and  Renewal,  People  & 
Remuneration and Audit Committees should consist solely 
independent  Non-Executive  Directors.  The  Risk 
of 
Committee  should  consist  of  a  majority  of  independent 
Non-Executive Directors; 
The  Chairman  will  be  an  independent  Non-Executive 
Director; 
The  Audit  Committee  will  be  chaired  by  an  independent 
Non-Executive Director other than the Chairman; 
The  Board  will  meet  on  a  regular  and  timely  basis.  The 
meeting  agendas  will  provide  adequate  information  about 
the affairs of the Group. It also enables the Board to guide 
and monitor management, and assist in its involvement in 
discussions  and  decisions  on  strategy.  Strategic  matters 
are  given  priority  on  regular  Board  meeting  agendas.  In 
addition, ongoing strategy is the major focus of at least one 
Board meeting annually; 
An agreed policy on the basis that Directors are entitled to 
obtain access to Group documents and information, and to 
meet with management; and 

A  procedure  whereby,  after  appropriate  consultation, 
Directors  are  entitled  to  seek  independent  professional 
advice, at the expense of the Group, to assist them to carry 
out  their  duties  as  Directors.  The  policy  of  the  Group 
provides that any such advice is generally made available 
to all Directors. 

Ethical Standards 

Conflicts of Interest  

In  accordance  with  the  Constitution  and  the  Corporations  Act 
2001,  Directors  are  required  to  disclose  to  the  Board  any 
material  contract  in  which  they  may  have  an  interest.  In 
compliance  with section  195  of  the  Corporations Act  2001 any 
Director  with  a  material  personal  interest  in  a  matter  being 
considered by the Board will not vote on or be present when the 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

57 

 
 
 
Corporate Governance 

matter  is  being  considered.  If  the  material  personal  interest  is 
disclosed  or  identified  before  a  Board  or  Committee  meeting 
takes  place those  Directors  will  also  not  receive  a copy  of  any 
paper dealing with the matter. 

Share Trading  

The Board has adopted a Group Securities Trading policy which 
prohibits  Directors,  employees  and  contractors  of  the  Group 
from: 

 

 

Dealing in the Group‟s securities if they are in possession 
of unpublished price-sensitive information; and 
Communicating  unpublished  price-sensitive  information  to 
other people. 

Directors  are  also  only  permitted  to  deal  with  the  Group‟s 
securities  within certain  periods,  as  long  as they are  not  in  the 
possession  of  unpublished  price-sensitive  information.  These 
periods include the 30 days after the half yearly and final results 
announcements,  and  14  days  after  quarterly  trading  update 
releases. 

in 

The Policy also requires that Directors do not deal on the basis 
of  considerations  of  a  short  term  nature  or  to  the  extent  of 
trading 
to 
Executives of the Group, which is in addition to the prohibition of 
any  trading  (including  hedging)  in  positions  prior  to  vesting  of 
shares or options. 

those  securities.  Similar  restrictions  apply 

Directors  and  Executives  who  report  to  the  CEO  are  also 
prohibited from: 

 

 

Any  hedging  of  publicly  disclosed  shareholding  positions; 
and 
Entering  into  or  maintaining  arrangements  for  margin 
borrowing, short selling or stock lending, in connection with 
the securities of the Group. 

A copy of the policy is available on the Group‟s website. 

Remuneration Arrangements 

Details of the governance arrangements and policies relevant to 
remuneration are set out in the Remuneration Report on pages 
69 to 88. 

Audit Arrangements 

Audit Committee 

The  Audit  Committee  assists  the  Board  in  fulfilling  its  statutory 
and  fiduciary  responsibilities.  It  provides  an  objective  and 
independent review of the effectiveness of the external reporting 
of  financial  information  and  the  internal  control  environment  of 
the Group, as well as obtaining an understanding of the Group‟s 
tax and accounting risks. The Audit Committee is responsible for 
overseeing  accounting  policies,  professional  accounting 
requirements, 
internal  audit  (GAA),  external  audit,  APRA 
statutory and regulatory reporting requirements, and the external 
auditor‟s appointment. 

The  Charter  of  the  Audit  Committee  incorporates  a  number  of 
policies  and  practices 
is 
to  ensure 
independent and effective. 

the  Committee 

that 

These include: 

 

 

The Audit Committee will comprise at least three members. 
All  members  must  be  Non-Executive, 
Independent 
Directors  and  be  financially  literate.  At  least  one  member 
should  have  relevant  qualifications  and  experience  as 
referred  to  in  the  ASX  Corporate  Governance  Principles 
and Recommendations; 
The  Chairman  of  the  Audit  Committee  cannot  be  the 

58 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Chairman of the Board. The term of each member will be 
determined by the Board through annual review. The Risk 
Committee  Chairman  will  be  a  member  of  the  Audit 
Committee  and  vice-versa  to  ensure  the  flow  of  relevant 
information between the two committees; 

  Meetings  will  be  at  least  quarterly  and  as  required.  The 

external auditor will be invited to all meetings; 

 

 

  Meetings will be held from time to time with GAA and the 
external  auditor  without  management  or  others  being 
present; 
The  Committee  has  the  power  to  call  attendees  as 
required,  including  open  access  to  management,  GAA, 
external  audit  and  the  right  to  seek  explanations  and 
additional information; 
Senior management  and the  internal  and  external  auditor 
have  free  and  unfettered  access  to  the  Audit  Committee 
with the Group Auditor having a direct reporting line, whilst 
maintaining  a  management  reporting  line  to  the  Chief 
Financial Officer; and  
It has the option, with the concurrence of the Chairman of 
the Board, to retain independent legal, accounting or other 
advisors to the extent the Committee considers necessary 
at the Group‟s expense. 

 

A  copy  of  the  Audit  Committee  Charter  is  available  on  the 
Group‟s website. 

Auditor 

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) was appointed as the external 
auditor  of  the  Bank  at  the  2007  AGM,  effective  from  the 
beginning of the 2008 financial year. 

The  PwC  partner  managing  the  Group‟s  external  audit  will 
attend  the  2012  AGM  and  be  available  to  respond  to 
shareholder questions relating to the external audit. 

In  line  with  current  legislations,  the  Group  requires  that  the 
partner be changed within five years of being appointed. 

The Group and its external auditor must continue to comply with 
U.S  Auditor  independence  requirements.  U.S.  Securities  and 
Exchange  Commission  (SEC)  rules  still  apply  to  various 
activities that  the  Group  undertakes  in  the  United States,  even 
though the Bank is not registered under the Exchange Act. 

Non-Audit Services 

The  External  Auditor  Services  Policy  requires 
the  Audit 
Committee  (or  its  delegate)  to  approve  all  audit  and  non-audit 
services  before  engaging  the  external  auditors  to  perform  the 
work.  The  policy  also  prohibits  the  external  auditors  from 
providing  certain  services  to  the  Group  or  its  affiliates.  The 
objective  of  this  policy  is  to  avoid  prejudicing  the  external 
auditor‟s independence.  

The  policy  is  designed  to  ensure  that  the  external  auditors  do 
not: 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 

Assume the role of management or act as an employee; 
Become an advocate for the Group; 
Audit their own work; 
Create a mutual or conflicting interest between themselves 
and the Group; 
Require an indemnification from the Group to themselves;  
Seek contingency fees; nor 

Have  a  direct  financial  or  business  interest  or  a  material 
indirect financial or business interest in the Group or any of 
its affiliates, or an employment relationship with the Group 
or any of its affiliates. 

 
 
 
Audit Arrangements (continued) 

Under  the  policy,  the  external  auditor  will  not  provide  certain 
services including the following services: 

 

 
 

 

Bookkeeping  or  other  services  relating  to  accounting 
records or Financial Statements of the Group; 
Financial information systems design and implementation; 
Appraisal or valuation services (other than certain tax only 
valuation services) and fairness opinions or contribution-in-
kind reports; 
Actuarial  services  unless  approved  in  accordance  with 
independence guidelines; 
Internal audit outsourcing services; 

 
  Management  functions,  including  acting  as  an  employee 

 
 

 
 

 

 

 

and secondment arrangements; 
Human resources; 
Broker-dealer,  investment  adviser  or  investment  banking 
services; 
Legal services; 
Expert services for the purpose of advocating the interests 
of the Group; 
Services relating to marketing, planning or opining in favour 
of the tax treatment of certain transactions; 
Tax  services  in  connection  with  certain  types  of  tax 
transactions; 
Tax  services  to  individuals,  and  any  immediate  family 
members  of  any  individuals,  in  a  Financial  Reporting 
Oversight Role; and 

 

Certain corporate recovery and similar services. 

In general terms, the permitted services are: 

 
 

 

 

the 

Audit services to the Group or an affiliate; 
Related  services  connected  with 
lodgement  of 
statements  or  documents  with  the  ASX,  ASIC,  APRA  or 
other regulatory or supervisory bodies; 
Services reasonably related to the performance of the audit 
services; 
Agreed-upon procedures or comfort letters provided by the 
external  auditor  to  third  parties  in  connection  with  the 
Group‟s financing or related activities; and 

  Other services pre-approved by the Audit Committee. 

Risk Management 

Risk  Management  governance  originates  at  Board  level,  and 
cascades through to the CEO and businesses, via policies and 
delegated authorities. This ensures Board level oversight and a 
clear  segregation  of  duties  between  those  who  originate  and 
those  who  approve  risk  exposures.  Independent  review  of  the 
risk management framework is carried out through GAA. 

The Board and its Risk Committee operate under the direction of 
their respective charters. The Board Charter stipulates, amongst 
other things that: 

 

 

The Board is responsible for “overseeing the establishment 
of  systems  of  risk  management  by  approving  accounting 
policies,  financial  statements  and  reports,  credit  policies 
and  standards,  risk management  policies  and  procedures 
and  operational  risk  policies  and  systems  of  internal 
controls”; and 

The  CEO  is  responsible  for  “implementing  a  system, 
including  a  system  of  internal  controls  and  audits,  to 
identify and manage risks that are material to the business 
of the Group”. 

The CEO and the Chief Financial Officer have given the Board 

Corporate Governance 

their  declaration  in  accordance  with  section  295A  of  the 
Corporations  Act  2001.  The  CEO  has  confirmed  that  the 
declaration is founded on a sound system of risk management 
and  internal  control  and  also  that  the  system  is  operating 
effectively in all material respects in relation to financial risks. 

Risk Committee 

The  Risk  Committee  oversees  the  Group‟s  risk  management 
framework. This includes credit, market (including traded interest 
rate risk in the banking book, lease residual values, non-traded 
equity  and  structural  foreign  exchange),  liquidity  and  funding, 
operational, 
regulatory  and  compliance,  and 
reputational  risks  assumed  by  the  Group  in  the  course  of 
carrying  on  its  business.  It  reviews  regular  reports  from 
management on the measurement of risk and the adequacy and 
effectiveness  of  the  Group‟s  risk  management  and  internal 
controls systems. 

insurance, 

Strategic  risks  are  governed  by  the  Board,  with  input  from  the 
various  Board  sub-committees.  Tax  and  accounting  risks  are 
governed by the Audit Committee. 

A key purpose is to help formulate the Group‟s risk appetite for 
consideration by the Board, and agreeing and recommending a 
risk management framework to the Board that is consistent with 
the approved risk appetite. 

This framework, which is designed to achieve portfolio outcomes 
consistent with the Group‟s risk-return expectations, includes: 

 

 

High-level  risk  management  policies  for  each  of  the  risk 
areas it is responsible for overseeing; and 

A  set  of  risk  limits  to  manage  exposures  and  risk 
concentrations. 

The  Committee  monitors  management‟s  compliance  with  the 
Group  risk  framework  (high-level  policies  and  limits).  It  also 
makes  recommendations  on the key  policies  relating to capital 
(that  underpin  the  Internal  Capital  Adequacy  Assessment 
Process),  liquidity  and  funding.  These  are  overseen  and 
reviewed by the Board on at least an annual basis. 

The  Committee  also  monitors  the  health  of  the  Group‟s  risk 
culture, and reports any significant issues to the Board. 

As part of the remuneration policy, the Risk Committee provides 
written input to the People & Remuneration Committee to assist 
in the alignment of executive remuneration with appropriate risk 
behaviours. 

The  Committee 
reviews  significant  correspondence  with 
regulators,  receives  reports  from  management  on  regulatory 
relations  and  reports  any  significant  regulatory  issues  to  the 
Board.  

Levels  of  insurance  cover  on  insurance  policies  maintained  by 
the Group to mitigate some operational risks are disclosed to the 
Risk Committee for comment. 

The Risk Committee charter states that the Committee will meet 
at least quarterly, and as required. In practice this is at least six 
times a year. To allow it to form a view on the independence of 
the  function,  the  Risk  Committee  meets  with  the  Group  Chief 
Risk Officer (CRO) in the absence of other management at least 
annually  or  as  decided  by  of  the  Committee  or  the  CRO.  The 
Chairman of the Risk Committee provides a report to the Board 
following each Committee meeting. 

A copy of  the  Risk  Committee charter  appears  on the Group‟s 
website. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

59 

 
 
 
Corporate Governance 

Risk Management (continued) 

Framework 

The  Group  has  an  integrated  risk  management  framework  in 
place  to  identify,  assess,  manage  and  report  risks  and  risk 
adjusted returns on a consistent and reliable basis. 

A description of the functions of the framework and the nature of 
the  risks  is  set  out  in  the  Risk  Management  section  of  the 
Annual  Report  (pages  37  to  40)  and  in  Notes  37  to  40  to  the 
Financial Statements (pages 178 to 201). 

Continuous Disclosure 

Matters which could be expected to have a material effect on the 
price  or  value  of  the  Company‟s  securities  must  be  disclosed 
under  the  Corporations  Act  2001  and  the  ASX  Listing  Rules. 
The Group‟s “Guidelines for Communication between the Bank 
and  Shareholders”  is  available  on  the  Group‟s  website.  These 
set  out  the  processes  to  ensure  that  shareholders  and  the 
market  are  provided  with  full  and  timely  information  about  the 
Group‟s  activities  in  compliance  with  continuous  disclosure 
requirements. 

Continuous  Disclosure  policy  and  processes  are  in  place 
throughout the  Group to  ensure that  all material matters  which 
may  potentially  require  disclosure  are  promptly  reported  to  the 
CEO. This is achieved via established reporting lines or as a part 
of the deliberations of the Group‟s Executive Committee. Matters 
reported are assessed and, where required by the ASX Listing 
Rules, advised to the market. A Disclosure Committee has also 
been  formed  to  provide  advice  on  the  requirements  for 
disclosing information to the market. The Company Secretary is 
responsible for communications  with  the ASX  and for  ensuring 
that such information is not released to any person until the ASX 
has confirmed its release to the market. 

Shareholder Communication 

The  Group  believes  it  is  very  important  for  its  shareholders  to 
make informed decisions about their investment in the Group. In 
order for  the market to  have  an  understanding  of the  business 
operations  and  performance,  the  Group  aims  to  provide 
shareholders with access to quality information in the form of: 

Interim and final results; 
Annual Reports; 
Shareholder newsletters; 
AGM; 

 
 
 
 
  Quarterly  trading  updates  and  Business  Unit  briefings 

where considered appropriate; 
All other price sensitive information will be released to the 
ASX in a timely manner; and 

The Group‟s website at www.commbank.com.au. 

 

 

The  Group  employs  a  wide 
range  of  communication 
approaches,  including  direct  communication  with  shareholders, 
publication of all relevant Group information on the shareholder 
centre  section  of  the  website  and  webcasting  of  most  market 
briefings for  shareholders.  Upcoming  webcasts  are  announced 
to  the  market  via  ASX  announcements  and  publicised  on  the 
website  to  enable  interested  parties to  participate.  To make  its 
general  meetings  more  accessible  to  shareholders,  the  Group 
moves  the  location  between  Australian capital  cities  each  year 
and  live  webcasts  are  available  for  viewing  online.  The  Group 
has taken these actions to encourage shareholder participation 
at general meetings. 

A summary record of issues discussed at one-on-one or group 
meetings with investors and analysts, including a record of those 
present,  time  and  venue  of  the  meeting,  are  kept  for  internal 

60 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

reference only. 

The Group is committed to maintaining a level of disclosure that 
meets  the  highest  of  standards  and  provides  all  investors  with 
timely and equal access to information. 

Ethical Policies 

The  values  of  the  Group  are  trust,  honesty  and  integrity.  The 
Board carries out its legal duties in accordance with these values 
and  having  appropriate  regard  to  the  interests  of  the  Group‟s 
customers, shareholders, people and the broader community in 
which the Group operates. 

Policies  and  codes  of  conduct  have  been  established  by  the 
Board  and  the  Group  Executive  team  to  support  the  Group‟s 
objectives, vision and values. 

Statement of Professional Practice 

The  Group‟s  code  of  ethics,  known  as  a  Statement  of 
Professional Practice, sets standards of behaviour required of all 
employees and directors including: 

 

 

 

 

 

To act properly and efficiently in pursuing the objectives of 
the Group; 
To  avoid  situations  which  may  give  rise  to  a  conflict  of 
interest; 
To  know  and  adhere  to  the  Group‟s  Equal  Employment 
Opportunity policy and programmes; 
To maintain confidentiality in the affairs of the Group and its 
customers; and 
To be absolutely honest in all professional activities. 

These  standards  are  regularly  communicated  to  the  Group‟s 
people.  The  Group  has  also  established  the  Group  Securities 
Trading  policy 
that  unpublished  price-sensitive 
information  is  not  used  in  an  illegal  manner  for  personal 
advantage. 

to  ensure 

Our People 

The  Group  has  implemented  various  policies  and  systems  to 
enable its people to carry out their duties in accordance with the 
Group‟s values. These include: 

Fair Treatment Review; 
 
 
Equal Employment Opportunity; 
  Occupational Health and Safety; 
Recruitment and selection; 
 
Performance management; 
 
Talent management and succession planning; 
 
Remuneration and recognition; 
 
Employee share plans; and 
 
Supporting Professional Development. 
 

Information on the Group‟s diversity strategy can be found in the 
Sustainability section of this report on pages 51 to 54. 

Behaviour Policy 

to  complying  with 

The  Group  is  strongly  committed  to  maintaining  an  ethical 
workplace  and 
legal  and  ethical 
responsibilities. The Group‟s Behaviour policy requires its people 
to  report  fraud,  corrupt  conduct,  mal-administration  or  serious 
and substantial waste by others. A system has been established 
which  allows  people  to  remain  anonymous,  if  they  wish,  for 
reporting of these matters. 

The policy includes reporting of auditing and accounting issues. 
These are reported to the Chief Compliance Officer by the Chief 
Security Officer, who administers the reporting and investigation 
system. The Chief Security Officer reports any such matters to 
the Audit Committee, noting the status of resolution and actions 
to be taken. 

 
 
 
Corporate Governance 

Code of Conduct 

The Board will operate in a manner reflecting the Group‟s values 
and  in  accordance  with  its  agreed  corporate  governance 
guidelines, the Bank‟s Constitution, the Corporations Act and all 
other applicable regulations. 

The  Board  employs  and  requires  at  all  levels,  impeccable 
values,  honesty  and  openness.  Through  its  processes,  it 
achieves  transparent,  open  governance  and  communications 
under all circumstances, and addressing both performance and 
conformance. 

The  Board‟s  policies  and  codes  include  detailed  provisions 
dealing with: 

 

 

 

The  interaction  between  the  Board  and  management  to 
ensure  there  is  effective  communication  of  the  Board‟s 
views  and  decisions,  resulting  in  motivation  and  focus 
towards  long  term  shareholder  value  behaviours  and 
outcomes; 
Disclosure  of  relevant  personal  interests  so  that  potential 
conflict  of 
identified  and 
appropriate  action  undertaken  to  avoid  compromising  the 
independence of the Board; and 
Securities  dealings  in  compliance  with  the  Group‟s  strict 
guidelines  and  in  accordance  with  its  values  of  trust, 
honesty and integrity. 

interest  situations  can  be 

Website 

The Group‟s Corporate Governance statement can be viewed at 
www.commbank.com.au  >  About  us  >  Shareholders  > 
Corporate Profile. 

The  current  charters  and  summary  of  policies  and  guidelines 
referred to in this statement are also published on this section of 
this website. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

61 

 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report 

The Directors of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia submit their report, together with the financial report of the Commonwealth Bank 
of Australia (the Bank) and of the Group, being the Bank and its controlled entities, for the year ended 30 June 2012. 

The  names  of  the  Directors  holding  office  during  the financial  year  are  set  out  below,  together  with  details  of  Directors‟  experience, 
qualifications, special responsibilities and organisations in which each of the Directors have declared an interest. 

Other directorships: O‟Connell Street Associates. 

Other Interests: Great Barrier Reef Foundation (Director). 

Qualifications:  Institute  of  Chartered  Accountants  in  England 
and Wales (Fellow). 

Mr Turner is a resident of New South Wales. Age 67. 

David J Turner, Chairman 

Mr Turner has been a member of the Board since August 2006 
and has been Chairman since February 2010. He is Chairman of 
the Board Performance and Renewal Committee and a member 
of  the  Risk  Committee  and  the  People  &  Remuneration 
Committee.  

Mr  Turner  has  extensive  experience  in  finance,  international 
business and governance.  

He was Chairman of Cobham plc from May 2008 until May 2010. 
He has held a number of Directorships including Whitbread plc 
and the Iron Trades Insurance Group and has been a member of 
the Quotations Committee of the London Stock Exchange. He is 
currently  a  Director  of  the  Great  Barrier  Reef  Foundation  and 
O‟Connell Street Associates.  

He  was  CEO  of  Brambles  Limited  from  October  2003  until  his 
retirement in June 2007, and formerly CFO from 2001 to 2003. 
He  was  also  Finance  Director  of  GKN  plc,  Finance  Director  of 
Booker plc and spent six years with Mobil Oil. 

Ian M Narev, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (Appointed 1 December 2011) 

Mr  Narev  commenced  as  Managing  Director  and  Chief 
Executive Officer on 1 December 2011. 

Other  directorships:  Commonwealth  Bank  Foundation 
(Chairman) and Financial Markets Foundation for Children. 

Mr Narev joined the Group in May 2007. From then until January 
2009,  he  was  Group  Head  of  Strategy,  with  responsibility  for 
corporate  strategy  development,  mergers  and  acquisitions  and 
major cross business strategic initiatives. 

From January 2009 until September 2011, Mr Narev was Group 
Executive, Business and Private Banking, one of the Group‟s six 
operating divisions. 

Prior to joining CBA, Mr Narev was a partner of McKinsey‟s New 
York,  Sydney  and  Auckland  offices  from  1998  to  2007.  He 
became  a  global  partner  in  2003,  and  from  2005  until  his 
departure in 2007 was head of McKinsey‟s New Zealand office. 
Prior to joining McKinsey, Mr Narev was a lawyer specialising in 
mergers and acquisitions. 

Sir John A Anderson, KBE 

Sir John has been a member of the Board since 12 March 2007. 
He is a member of the Risk Committee and Board Performance 
and Renewal Committee. Sir John is a highly respected business 
and community leader, having held many senior positions in the 
New  Zealand  finance  industry  including  Chief Executive  Officer 
and  Director  of  ANZ  National  Bank  Limited  from  2003  to  2005 
and  the  National  Bank  of  New  Zealand  Limited  from  1989  to 
2003.  

inaugural  Blake  Medal 

In 1994, Sir John was awarded Knight Commander of the Civil 
Division of the Order of the British Empire, and in 2005 received 
the 
“Outstanding  Leadership 
Contributions to  New  Zealand”.  In 2012  Sir  John  was  awarded 
an  Honorary  Doctorate  of  Commerce  by  Victoria  University, 
Wellington. 

for 

62 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Other  Interests:  Springboard  Trust  (Chairman)  and  Louise 
Perkins Foundation (Trustee).  

Qualifications: BA LLB (Hons) (Auckland); LLM (Cantab); LLM 
(NYU). 

Mr Narev is a resident of New South Wales. Age 45. 

Other  directorships:  New  Zealand  Venture  Investment  Fund 
(Chairman),  PGG  Wrightson  Limited  (Chairman),  National 
Property Trust Limited (Chairman), Steel & Tube Holdings and 
Turners and Growers Limited. 

Other  Interests:  Canterbury  Business  Recovery  Trust  Fund 
(Trustee). 

Institute  of  Chartered 
Qualifications:  New  Zealand 
Accountants  (Fellow),  Institute  of  Financial  Professionals  New 
Zealand  (Fellow),  Institute  of  Directors  (Fellow),  Australian 
Institute of Banking and Finance (Life Member). 

Sir John is a resident of Wellington, New Zealand. Age 67. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report 

Other  directorships:  BHP  Billiton  Community  Trust 
(Chairman),  BHP  Billiton  Community  Ltd  (Chairman),  Arrium 
Limited (previously OneSteel Limited) and Australian Institute of 
Company Directors.  

Interests:  CARE  Australia 

Other 
Melbourne Hospital Neuroscience Foundation (Trustee).  

(Director)  and  Royal 

Qualifications:  LLB  (Hons)  LLM  (University  of  Melbourne) 
Supreme  Courts  of  Victoria,  New  South  Wales,  Queensland 
and Western Australia, Barrister and Solicitor. 

Mr Galbraith is a resident of Victoria. Age 64. 

Other  directorships:  Lend  Lease,  Santos  Ltd,  Tabcorp  Ltd, 
Victorian Opera Company Ltd and The Global Foundation.  

Other  Interests:  Council  of  the  National  Library  of  Australia 
(Member),  Chief  Executive Women  Inc.  (Member), Walter  and 
Eliza Hall Institute Financial Sustainability Committee (Member), 
Council  of  Governing  Members  of  The  Smith  Family  and 
CEDA‟s Policy and Research Committee (Member). 

Qualifications: Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants 
in  England  and  Wales,  Fellow  of  the  Institute  of  Chartered 
Accountants  in  Australia,  BSc  (Hons)  London  University, 
Australian Institute of Company Directors (Fellow). 

Ms Hemstritch is a resident of Victoria. Age 58. 

Colin R Galbraith, AM 

Mr Galbraith has been a member of the Board since 2000 and is 
a  member  of  the  Risk  Committee,  Audit  Committee  and  Board 
Performance & Renewal Committee.  

Mr  Galbraith  has  extensive  experience  in  commercial  law, 
mergers  and  acquisitions,  corporate  governance  and  risk 
management.  He  was  a  senior  partner  of  Allens  and  its 
predecessor firms until his retirement in 2006 after 32 years with 
that  firm;  during  20  years  of  which  he  was  also  Honorary 
Secretary  to  the  Council  of  Legal  Education  in  Victoria.  Mr 
Galbraith  is  currently  a  special  advisor  for  Gresham  Partners 
Limited. 

Jane S Hemstritch 

Ms Hemstritch has been a member of the Board since 9 October 
2006,  and  is  the  Chairman  of  the  People  &  Remuneration 
Committee and a member of the Risk Committee. 

Ms Hemstritch was Managing Director Asia Pacific for Accenture 
Limited from 2004 until her retirement in  February 2007. In this 
role,  Ms  Hemstritch  was  a  member  of  Accenture‟s  global 
executive  leadership  team  and  oversaw  the  management  of 
Accenture‟s business portfolio in Asia Pacific. Ms Hemstritch had 
a 24 year career with Accenture, preceded by seven years in the 
accounting profession. 

She  holds  a  Bachelor  of  Science  Degree  in  Biochemistry  and 
Physiology  and  has  professional  expertise 
technology, 
communications, change management and accounting.  

in 

She  also  has  experience  across 
financial  services, 
telecommunications,  government,  energy  and  manufacturing 
sectors and in business expansion in Asia. 

the 

Launa K Inman 

Ms  Inman  has  been  a  member  of  the  Board  since  16  March 
2011, and is a member of the Risk Committee. 

Other directorships: Managing Director and CEO of Billabong 
International Limited.  

Ms Inman was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive 
Officer of Billabong International Limited, effective 14 May 2012. 
Prior to this, she was Managing Director of Target Australia Pty 
Limited from 2005 to November 2011, and Managing Director of 
Officeworks from 2004 to 2005.  

Other  Interests:  Chief  Executive  Women  Inc.  (Member), 
Australian Institute of Management (Member) and World Retail 
Congress  Advisory  Board  (Member),  The  Alannah  and 
Madeline  Foundation  Board  (not-for-profit)  and  the  L‟Oreal 
Melbourne Fashion Festival Board.  

Ms Inman won the 2003 Telstra Australian Business Woman of 
the  Year  and  was  winner  of  the  Commonwealth  Government 
Private and Corporate Sector Award. 

Qualifications:  MCom,  University  of  South  Africa  (UNISA), 
BCom  (Hons)  (UNISA),  BCom  (Economics  and  Accounting) 
(UNISA), Australian Institute of Company Directors (Member). 

Ms Inman is a resident of Victoria. Age 56. 

S Carolyn H Kay 

Ms Kay has been a member of the Board since 2003 and is also 
a  member  of  the  Audit  Committee,  People  &  Remuneration 
Committee and Risk Committee. She holds Bachelor Degrees in 
Law and Arts and a Graduate Diploma in Management.  

She has over 25 years of experience in Finance, particularly  in 
International Finance, including working as both a banker and a 
lawyer at Morgan Stanley, JP Morgan and Linklaters & Paines in 
London, New York and Australia. 

Other  directorships:  Allens,  Brambles  Industries  Limited, 
Infrastructure NSW and Sydney Institute. 

Other  Interests:  Chief  Executive  Women  Inc.  (Member)  and 
Women Corporate Directors (Member). 

Qualifications:  BA  (Melb),  LLB  (Melb),  GDM  (AGSM), 
Australian Institute of Company Directors (Fellow). 

Ms Kay is a resident of New South Wales. Age 51. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

63 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report 

Brian J Long 

Mr  Long  has  been  a member  of  the  Board  since  1  September 
2010. He is the Chairman of the Audit Committee and a member 
of the Risk Committee.  

Mr Long retired as a partner of Ernst & Young on 30 June 2010. 
Until that time he was the Chairman of both the Ernst & Young 
Global  Advisory  Council  and  of  the  Oceania  Area  Advisory 
Council.  He  was  one  of  the  firms  most  experienced  audit 
partners  with  over  30  years  experience  in  serving  as  audit 
signing  partner  on  major  Australian  public  companies  including 
those  in  the  financial  services,  property,  insurance  and  media 
sectors. 

Andrew M Mohl 

Mr Mohl has been a member of the Board since 1 July 2008 and 
is  a  member  of  the  Risk  Committee  and  the  People  & 
Remuneration  Committee.  He  has  over  35  years  of  financial 
services experience. Mr Mohl was Managing Director and Chief 
Executive  Officer  of  AMP  Limited  from  October  2002  until 
December 2007.  

Mr  Mohl‟s  previous  roles  at  AMP  included  Managing  Director, 
AMP  Financial  Services  and  Managing  Director  and  Chief 
Investment Officer, AMP Asset Management. 

Mr Mohl was a former Group Chief Economist, Chief Manager, 
Retail Banking and Managing Director, ANZ Funds Management 
at ANZ Banking  Group.  Mr  Mohl commenced  his career  at the 
Reserve  Bank  of  Australia  where  his  roles  included  Senior 
Economist and Deputy Head of Research. 

Other directorships: Cantarella Bros. Pty Ltd and Ten Network 
Holdings Limited (Deputy Chairman). 

Other Interests: Chairman of United Way Australia, Member of 
Council  and  Chairman  of  Audit  Committee  for  each  of  the 
National Library of Australia and the University of NSW. 

Qualifications:  Institute  of  Chartered  Accountants  in  Australia 
(Fellow). 

Mr Long is a resident of New South Wales. Age 66. 

Other directorships: Federal Government Export Finance and 
Insurance Corporation (Chairman) and AMP Foundation. 

Other  Interests:  Coaching  services  to  Chief  Executives, 
Member  of  the  Board  of  Governors  for  the  Committee  of 
Economic Development of Australia, and the Corporate Council 
of the European Australian Business Council. 

Qualifications: BEc (Hons), Monash. 

Mr Mohl is a resident of New South Wales. Age 56. 

Fergus D Ryan, AO 

Mr Ryan has been a member of the Board since 2000 and is a 
member  of  the  Audit  Committee  and  Risk  Committee.  He  has 
extensive  experience  in  accounting,  audit,  finance  and  risk 
management. 

He was a senior partner of Arthur Andersen until his retirement in 
1999,  after  33  years  with  that  firm,  including  five  years  as 
Managing  Partner  Australasia.  Until  2002,  he  was  Strategic 
Investment  Co-ordinator  and  Major  Projects  Facilitator  for  the 
Commonwealth Government. 

Other  directorships:  Australian  Foundation 
Company Limited, and Centre for Social Impact. 

Investment 

Other  Interests:  Chairman  of  the  Advisory  Council  of  the 
Global Foundation,  Committee for Melbourne (Counsellor) and 
Pacific Institute (Patron). 

Qualifications:  Institute  of  Chartered  Accountants  in  Australia 
(Fellow). 

Mr Ryan is a resident of Victoria. Age 69. 

Harrison H Young 

Mr  Young  has  been  a  member  of  the  Board  since  February 
2007. He is Chairman of the Risk Committee and a member of 
the Audit Committee.  

Other directorships: NBN Co Limited (Chairman), Better Place 
(Australia) Pty (Chairman), Humanities 22 Inc., Bank of England 
ceasing 31 May 2012 and Financial Services Volunteer Corps. 

From 2003 to 2007, Mr Young was Chairman of Morgan Stanley 
Australia,  and  from  1997  to  2003  Vice  Chairman  of  Morgan 
Stanley Asia.  

Prior  to  that,  Mr  Young  spent  two  years  in  Beijing  as  Chief 
Executive  Officer  of  China  International  Capital  Corporation. 
From  1991  to  1994  he  was  a  senior  officer  of  the  Federal 
Deposit Insurance Corporation in Washington. 

Other interests: Wesley College Advisory Committee. 

Qualifications:  AB,  cum  laude,  Harvard,  LLD,  honoris  causa, 
Monash. 

Mr Young is a resident of Victoria. Age 67. 

64 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report 

Sir Ralph J Norris, KNZM, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (Retired 30 November 2011) 

Sir Ralph was the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer 
from  September  2005  to  30  November  2011.  From  2002,  Sir 
Ralph was Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air 
New  Zealand  having  been  a  Director  of  that  Company  since 
1998. He retired from that Board in 2005 to take up his position 
with the Group. He was also a member of the Risk Committee. 

Sir  Ralph  has  a  30  year  career  in  Banking.  He  was  Chief 
Executive Officer of ASB Bank Limited from 1991 until 2001 and 
Head of International Financial Services from 1999 until 2001. 

Other  directorships:  Australian  Bankers‟  Association 
(Chairman)  (retired  23  October  2011),  Commonwealth  Bank 
Foundation  (Chairman)  (retired  30 November  2011), Business 
Council  of  Australia  (retired  31  October  2011)  and  Financial 
Markets Foundation for Children (retired 30 November 2011). 

Other Interests: Australian Business and Community Network 
(Member),  Juvenile  Diabetes  Research  Foundation  Advisory 
Council  (Co-Chair)  and  University  of  NSW  AGSM  Advisory 
Council (Member).  

In  2005,  Sir  Ralph  retired  from  the  Board  of  Fletcher  Building 
Limited where he had been a Director since 2001. 

Qualifications: New Zealand Institute of Management (Fellow) 
and New Zealand Computer Society (Fellow). 

Sir Ralph is a resident of New South Wales. Age 63. 

Other Directorships 
The Directors held directorships on listed companies within the last three years as follows: 

Director 

David Turner 
John Anderson 

Colin Galbraith 
Jane Hemstritch 

Launa Inman 
Carolyn Kay 
Brian Long 
Fergus Ryan 

Directors’ Meetings 

Company 

Date Appointed 

Cobham plc 
PGG Wrightson Ltd (NZ) 
National Property Trust NPT Limited (NZ) 
Steel & Tube Holdings Ltd (NZ) 
Turners & Growers Ltd (NZ) 
Arrium Limited 
Tabcorp Holdings Limited 
Santos Limited 
Lend Lease Corporation Limited 
Billabong International Limited 
Brambles Industries Limited 
Ten Network Holdings Limited 
Australian Foundation Investments Company Limited 

01/12/2007 
01/04/2010 
01/04/2011 
10/11/2011 
03/04/2012 
25/10/2000 
13/11/2008 
16/02/2010 
01/09/2011 
14/05/2012 
01/06/2006 
01/07/2010 
08/08/2001 

Date of Ceasing 
(if applicable) 

06/05/2010 

The number of Directors‟ meetings (including meetings of committees of Directors) and number of meetings attended by each of the 
Directors during the financial year were: 

Director 

David Turner 
Ian Narev (2) 
John Anderson 
Colin Galbraith 
Jane Hemstritch 
Launa Inman 
Carolyn Kay 
Brian Long 
Andrew Mohl 
Fergus Ryan 
Harrison Young 
Ralph Norris (3) 

 (1) The number of meetings held during the time the Director was a member of the Board and was eligible to attend. 
(2) Ian Narev commenced as CEO effective 1 December 2011. 

(3) Ralph Norris retired effective 30 November 2011. 

No. of Meetings 
Held (1) 

No. of Meetings 
Attended 

10 
5 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
5 

10 
5 
9 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
10 
5 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

65 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report 

Committee Meetings 

Risk Committee 

Audit Committee 

People &  
Remuneration Committee 

No. of Meetings 
Held (1) 

No. of Meetings 
Attended 

No. of Meetings 
Held (1) 

No. of Meetings 
Attended 

No. of Meetings 
Held (1) 

No. of Meetings 
Attended 

6 
4 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
2 

6 
4 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
6 
2 

- 
- 
- 
6 
- 
- 
6 
6 
- 
6 
6 
- 

- 
- 
- 
6 
- 
- 
6 
6 
- 
6 
5 
- 

7 
- 
- 
- 
7 
- 
7 
- 
7 
- 
- 
- 

7 
- 
- 
- 
7 
- 
7 
- 
7 
- 
- 
- 

Board Performance  
and Renewal Committee 

No. of Meetings 
Held (1) 

No. of Meetings 
Attended 

6 
6 
6 

6 
6 
5 

Director 

David Turner 
Ian Narev (2) 
John Anderson 
Colin Galbraith 
Jane Hemstritch 
Launa Inman 
Carolyn Kay 
Brian Long 
Andrew Mohl 
Fergus Ryan 
Harrison Young 
Ralph Norris (3) 

Director 

David Turner 
John Anderson 
Colin Galbraith 

(1) The number of meetings held during the time the Director was a member of the relevant committee.  

(2) Ian Narev commenced as CEO effective 1 December 2011. 

(3) Ralph Norris retired effective 30 November 2011. 

Principal Activities 

The principal activities of the Group during the financial year  ended 30 June 2012 were the provision of a broad range of banking and 
financial products and services to retail, small business, corporate and institutional clients.  

The Group conducts its operations primarily in Australia, New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region. It also operates in a number of other 
countries including the United Kingdom and the United States.  

There have been no significant changes in the nature of the principal activities of the Group during the financial year. 

66 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Profit 

ensure a better service outcome for the Group‟s customers. 

Directors’ Report 

The  Group‟s  net  profit  after  income  tax  and  non  controlling 
interests  for  the  year  ended  30  June  2012  was  $7,090  million 
(2011: $6,394 million).  

The  Group  has  achieved  another  solid  financial  result  in  a 
challenging  environment,  characterised  by  subdued  credit 
growth,  fragile  business  and  consumer  confidence,  elevated 
funding costs and continuing volatility in global markets. 

The Group‟s focus on building long term competitive advantage, 
combined  with  a  strong  financial  platform  and  diversified 
business  model  enabled 
these 
unpredictable  economic  conditions,  maintain  momentum  and 
generate sustainable returns. 

to  effectively  manage 

it 

Operating income growth was impacted by the low credit growth 
environment,  increased  funding  costs  and  competitive  lending 
and  deposit  markets.  The  Markets  and  Wealth  Management 
businesses also faced challenging trading conditions. 

through 
Operating  expense  growth  has  been  contained 
disciplined  cost  management,  without  disrupting  investment  in 
the  underlying  businesses,  including  the  effective  execution  of 
the  Core  Banking  Modernisation 
long-term 
commitment  to  productivity  to  improve  customers‟  experience 
and Group efficiency is a key strategic priority. 

initiative.  The 

Loan  impairment  expense  decreased,  mainly  reflecting  a 
reduction in single name exposures within  Institutional Banking 
and Markets. Economic overlays were maintained, reflecting the 
Group‟s  conservative  approach  to  provisioning,  as  business 
conditions  remain  challenging 
the  Group‟s 
customers. 

for  some  of 

There  have  been  no  significant  changes  in  the  nature  of  the 
principal activities of the Group during the financial year. 

Dividends 

The  Directors  have  declared  a  fully  franked  (at  30%)  final 
dividend  of  197  cents  per  share  amounting  to  $3,137  million. 
The dividend will be payable on 5 October 2012 to shareholders 
on the register at 5pm EST on 24 August 2012.  

Dividends paid in the year ended 30 June 2012 were as follows: 

 

 

In respect of the year to 30 June 2011, a fully franked final 
dividend  of  188  cents  per  share  amounting  to  $2,930 
million  was  paid  on  6  October  2011.  The  payment 
comprised direct cash disbursements of $2,099 million with 
$831  million  being  reinvested  by  participants  through  the 
DRP; and 
In  respect  of  the  year  to  30  June  2012,  a  fully  franked 
interim  dividend  of  137  cents  per  share  amounting  to 
$2,166  million  was  paid  on  5  April  2012.  The  payment 
comprised  direct  cash  disbursements  of  $1,635  million, 
with  $531 million  being  reinvested by  participants  through 
the DRP.  

Review of Operations 

An analysis of operations for the financial year is set out in the 
Highlights  section  and  in  the  sections  for  Retail  Banking 
Services,  Business  and  Private  Banking,  Institutional  Banking 
and  Markets,  Wealth  Management,  New  Zealand,  Bankwest 
and Other Divisions. 

Changes in State of Affairs 

During  the  year,  the  Group  continued  to  make  significant 
progress  in  implementing  a  number  of  initiatives  designed  to 

Highlights included: 

 

 

 

 

 

“Business Bank of the Year” and “Best Online Bank” in the 
2012 Money Magazine Awards; 
Continued  investment  spend,  including  the  Core  Banking 
Modernisation  initiative,  which  achieved  some  significant 
milestones,  including  real-time  banking  for  both  retail  and 
small business customers; 
The launch of CommBank Kaching, a revolutionary mobile 
phone  application  that  offers  fast,  safe  and  easy  mobile 
banking; 
Completion of the Group‟s property strategy to: consolidate 
the  Sydney  metropolitan 
three  main 
precincts;  and  the  world‟s  largest  implementation  of  an 
Activity  Based  Working  environment,  which  introduces 
flexibility to work in different ways; and 
Bankwest  was  awarded  the  AFR  Smart  Investor  2011 
“Overall Winner” award. 

teams  across 

There have been no significant changes in the state of affairs of 
the Group during the financial year. 

Events Subsequent to Balance Sheet date 

The  Bank  expects  to  issue  approximately  $784  million  of 
ordinary shares in respect of the DRP for the final dividend for 
the year ended 30 June 2012. 

The Directors are not aware of any other matter or circumstance 
that  has  occurred  since  the  end  of  the  financial  year  that  has 
significantly affected or may significantly affect the operations of 
the Group, the results of those operations or the state of affairs 
of the Group in subsequent financial years. 

Business Strategies and Future Developments 

Accommodation Strategy 

The  Group  has  now  completed  its  property  strategy  to 
consolidate  its  Sydney  metropolitan  teams  across  three  main 
precincts:  Sydney  Central  Business  District  (CBD),  Sydney 
Olympic  Park  and  Parramatta.  With  the  recent  move  into 
Commonwealth Bank Place, the Group now houses over 10,000 
employees between Darling Park Tower 1 and Commonwealth 
Bank Place in Sydney‟s CBD.  

is 

the  world‟s 

largest 
Commonwealth  Bank  Place 
implementation  of  Activity  Based  Working  (ABW).  ABW  is  a 
style  of  working,  which  recognises  that  our  people‟s  ability  to 
work effectively requires the flexibility to work in different ways. 
ABW  empowers  individuals  to  choose  different  types  of  work 
settings  to  suit  their  work  needs  at  different  stages  throughout 
the  day, supported by  the latest technologies  enabling mobility 
and  collaborative  working.  The  success  of  ABW  has  seen  the 
Group  establish  another  ABW  workplace 
its  newest 
in 
commercial development - Bankwest Place, Perth. 

The  buildings 
in  which  employees  are  now  being 
accommodated  are  either  new  or  substantially  refurbished 
buildings,  providing  improved  working  environments,  more 
efficient  and  sustainable  use  of  space  and  greater  open  plan 
and collaborative work spaces. 

Business Strategies 

Business  strategies,  prospects  and  future  developments  which 
may affect the operations of the Group in subsequent years are 
referred to in the Chief Executive Officer‟s Statement.  

In  the  opinion  of  the  Directors,  disclosure  of  any  further 
information  on 
likely  strategic  developments  would  be 
unreasonably prejudicial to the interests of the Group. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

67 

 
 
Directors’ Report 

Environmental Reporting 

The  Group  is  subject  to  the  Federal  Government‟s  National 
Greenhouse  and  Energy  Reporting  (NGER)  scheme.  The 
scheme makes it mandatory for controlling corporations to report 
annually on greenhouse gas emissions, energy production and 
energy consumption, if they exceed certain threshold levels. As 
a  result  of  a  long  history  in  voluntary  environmental  reporting, 
the Group is well placed to meet the NGER requirements, and 
its  energy  and  emissions  data 
has 
the 
management  and  reporting  systems 
legislation. 

recently  updated 

to  comply  with 

The Group is also subject to the Energy Efficiency Opportunities 
Act  2006  (EEO  Act),  which  encourages  large  energy-using 
businesses to improve their energy efficiency.  

The  Group,  including  several  Colonial  First  State  managed 
funds, is required to comply with the EEO Act due to exceeding 
certain energy consumption thresholds. 

As  required  by  the  EEO  Act,  the  Group  lodged  a  five  year 
energy  efficiency  assessment  plan  and  reported  to  Federal 
Government on 31 December 2008. The Group is subsequently 
required to report to the Federal Government every three years 
and  to  release  a  public  report  annually,  covering  all  preceding 
years‟ assessment outcomes. 

The  Group  is  not  subject  to  any  other  particular  or  significant 
environmental  regulation  under  any  law  of  the  Commonwealth 
or of a State or Territory, but can incur environmental liabilities 
as a lender. The Group has developed policies to ensure this is 
managed appropriately. 

Directors’ Shareholdings and Options 

Particulars of shares held by Directors and the Chief Executive 
Officer  in  the  Commonwealth  Bank  or  in  a  related  body 
corporate  are  set  out  in  the  Remuneration  Report  within  this 
report. 

Commonwealth  Bank  of  Australia  (the  Constitution),  as  are  all 
senior managers of the Bank. 

Deeds of Indemnity have been executed by the Bank, consistent 
with the Constitution, in favour of each Director of the Bank. 

An  Indemnity  Deed  Poll  has  been  executed  by  the  Bank, 
consistent with the Constitution, in favour of each: 

 
 

 

secretary and senior manager of the Bank;  
director,  secretary  and  senior  manager  of  a  related  body 
corporate of the Bank; and 

person who, at the prior formal request of the Bank, acts as 
director, secretary or senior manager of a body corporate 
which is not a related body corporate of the Bank (in which 
case  the  indemnity  operates  only  excess  of  protection 
provided by that body corporate). 

In  the  case  of  a  partly-owned  subsidiary  of  the  Bank,  where  a 
director, secretary or senior manager of that entity is a nominee 
of  a  third  party  body  corporate  which  is  not  a  related  body 
corporate of the Bank, the Indemnity Deed Poll will not apply to 
that  person  unless  the  Bank's  CEO  has  certified  that  the 
indemnity shall apply to that person.  

Directors’ and Officers’ Insurance 

The  Bank  has,  during  the  financial  year,  paid  an  insurance 
premium in respect of an insurance policy for the benefit of the 
Bank  and  those  named  and  referred  to  above  including  the 
directors,  secretaries,  officers  and  certain  employees  of  the 
Bank and related bodies corporate as defined in the insurance 
policy.  The 
liabilities 
permitted  to  be  indemnified  by  the  Bank  and  the  Group  under 
Section 199B of the Corporations Act 2001. In accordance with 
commercial practice, the insurance policy prohibits disclosure of 
the terms of the policy, including the nature of the liability insured 
against and the amount of the premium. 

indemnity  against 

insurance  grants 

Rounding and presentation of amounts 

No  options  have  previously  been  granted  to  the  Directors  or 
Chief Executive Officer. Refer to the Remuneration Report within 
this report for further details. 

The Bank is of the kind of entity referred to in ASIC Class Order 
98/100  (as  amended)  pursuant  to  section  341(1)  of  the 
Corporations Act 2001. 

Options outstanding 

As at the date of this report there are no options outstanding in 
relation to Commonwealth Bank ordinary shares.  

Directors’ Interests in Contracts 

A  number  of  Directors  have  given  written  notices,  stating  that 
they hold office in specified companies and accordingly are to be 
regarded  as  having  an  interest  in  any  contract  or  proposed 
contract that may be made between the Bank and any of those 
companies. 

Directors’ and Officers’ Indemnity 

The Directors, as named on pages  62 to 65 of this report, and 
the  Secretaries  of  the  Bank,  being  J  D  Hatton  and  C  F 
Collingwood,  are  indemnified  pursuant  to  the  Constitution  of 

As  a  result,  amounts  in  this  Directors‟  Report  and  the 
accompanying  financial  statements  have  been  rounded  to  the 
nearest million dollars except where otherwise indicated. 

The financial information included in this Annual Report, unless 
otherwise  indicated,  has  been  prepared  and  presented  in 
accordance with Australian Accounting Standards. This ensures 
compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards. 

The  Group  manages  its‟  business  performance  using  a  “cash 
basis”  profit  measure.  The  key  items  that  are  excluded  from 
statutory  profit  for  this  purpose  are  non-recurring  or  not 
considered  representative  of  the  Group‟s  ongoing  financial 
performance. Profit on an “underlying basis” is used primarily in 
the  Wealth  Management  businesses.  It  provides  a  profit 
measure  that  excludes  the  volatility  of  equity  markets  on 
shareholder funds for a measure of core operating performance.

68 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

Message  from  the  People  &  Remuneration 
Committee Chairman  

Dear Shareholder, 

The  2012  financial  year  has  been  a  challenging  one  for  the 
Group.  The  growing  uncertainties  in  global  financial  markets, 
particularly with the on-going debt crisis in the European region, 
continue to create pressures for our businesses. These include 
restrained  credit  growth,  increased  funding  costs,  weak  equity 
markets and continued regulatory change. 

Against  this  backdrop,  the  Group  has  remained  competitive  in 
the  2012 
financial  year.  Financial  performance,  although 
subdued  compared  to  2011,  was  stronger  than  most  of  our 
global  peers  and  performance  against  non-financial  measures 
has  been  solid.  We  have  continued  to  improve  our  customer 
satisfaction  in  all  core  areas,  including  Retail  Banking,  Wealth 
Management, Institutional Banking and Business Banking. From 
a  technology  perspective,  we  have  continued  to  offer  leading 
edge  frontline  banking  systems  and  delivery  platforms  in  the 
Australian  market,  which  help  enhance  the  overall  customer 
experience. 

The delivery of this good performance has been the result of the 
hard  work  and  dedication  of  our  people.  Our  remuneration 
frameworks  are  designed  to  attract  and  retain  key  executive 
talent, recognise the individual contributions of our people, and 
motivate  them  to  achieve  strong  performance  aligned  to  our 
business strategy.  

To clearly align remuneration decisions with the sustainability of 
our business outcomes, we have decided not to make any fixed 
remuneration  increases  for  our  most  senior  executives  for  the 

2013  financial  year.  This  includes  the  CEO  and  Group 
Executives  who  are  mentioned  in  this  report,  as  well  as  our 
Executive General Managers and General Managers. Fees paid 
to  Non-Executive  Directors  will  also  remain  unchanged  in  the 
2013 financial year.  

Although  we  have  not  made  any  fixed  remuneration  increases 
for  our  senior  executives,  we  still  continue  to  focus  on 
appropriately 
the  contributions  of  our  high 
performers to the overall growth of our business.  

recognising 

We  have  made  reasonable  incentive  awards  to  our  people 
based  on  performance  against  appropriate  measures  that 
discourage excess risk-taking. We are confident that we have in 
place  robust  measures  which  achieve  a  direct  alignment 
between  the  remuneration  interests  of  our  employees  and  the 
interests of our shareholders. This year, no changes have been 
made to our performance measures or remuneration framework. 

In  the  2012  financial  year,  we  have  again  reviewed  our 
Remuneration  Report  and  have  made  some  changes  to  the 
style  and  layout,  with  the  aim  of  better  communicating  our 
executive  remuneration  arrangements  in  a  clear  and  concise 
manner,  improving  the  overall  readability  of  the  report,  with  a 
remuneration  and 
greater 
performance.  

link  between 

focus  on 

the 

I hope you find the information we have provided in this report 
useful. 

Jane Hemstritch 

Committee Chairman 

15 August 2012 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

69 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

2012 Remuneration and Performance Highlights 

Appointment of new CEO     

Ian Narev, previously Group Executive, Business and Private Banking, was appointed to replace Ralph 
Norris as CEO of the Group after his retirement on 30 November 2011. 

 

Ian‟s annual remuneration was set at the time of his appointment at fixed pay of $2.5m, STI target of 
$2.5m and LTI target of $2.5m. 

Senior executive pay 
freeze 

  

Senior executives, including the CEO and Group Executives of the Group will not receive any fixed 
pay, STI target or LTI target increases for the 2013 financial year. 

 

This pay freeze extends to approximately 400 senior executives of the Group. 

Non-Executive Director 
fees increased for the first 
time in 4 years 

Short term incentives 
reflect good 2012 
performance 

   

Non-executive director fees have remained at the same level since 2008, apart from a reduction during 
the worst of the global financial crisis. 

 

These fees were increased by 5% from 1 January 2012. 

  

2012 financial and non-financial performance was good in a challenging environment. 

 

Against this background, the average short term incentive payment for the CEO and Group Executives 
was 106% of their short term incentive targets. 

Long term incentive 
performance hurdles met 

   

The vesting outcome of the long term incentive awarded in 2009 reflected TSR performance over 3 
years at the 85th percentile of the peer group, and improvement in customer satisfaction to rank second 
against peers. 

 

This performance resulted in 87.5% of the award vesting to those executives who participated in the 
plan. 

70 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

2012 Remuneration Report 

This Remuneration Report details the approach to remuneration frameworks, outcomes and performance, for the Commonwealth Bank 
of Australia (CBA) and its Key Management Personnel (KMP) for the year ended 30 June 2012. 

In the 2012 financial year, KMP included the Non-Executive Directors, CEO and Group Executives listed in the table below. The table 
also includes people movements during 2012. The key structural changes to the Executive team included: 

Ralph Norris‟ retirement from the Group at the end of November 2011; 
Ian Narev appointed as Chief Executive Officer effective from 1 December 2011;  

 
 
  Grahame Petersen appointed to the role of Group Executive, Business and Private Banking from 1 October 2011; 
 
Annabel Spring, appointed to the role of Group Executive, Wealth Management, effective 1 October 2011; and 
  Melanie Laing appointed to the role of Group Executive, Human Resources, effective 15 February 2012.  

This  KMP  disclosure  is  consistent  with  the  current  legislation  which  requires  remuneration  disclosures  only  for  the  KMP  of  the 
consolidated entity (prior years‟ requirements included details for the KMP and the five most highly remunerated officers (if different) in 
relation to both the parent entity and the consolidated entity). 

The report has been prepared and audited against the disclosure requirements of the Corporations Act 2001. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

71 

NamePositionTerm as KMPNon-Executive DirectorsDavid TurnerChairman Full YearJohn AndersonDirectorFull YearColin Galbraith DirectorFull YearJane HemstritchDirectorFull YearLauna InmanDirectorFull YearCarolyn KayDirectorFull YearBrian LongDirectorFull YearAndrew MohlDirectorFull YearFergus RyanDirectorFull YearHarrison YoungDirectorFull YearManaging Director and CEORalph NorrisManaging Director and CEO (retired 30 November 2011)Part YearIan Narev Managing Director and CEO (from 1 December 2011)Full YearGroup Executive, Business and Private Banking (until 30 November 2011)Group ExecutivesSimon BlairGroup Executive, International Financial ServicesFull YearDavid CohenGroup General CounselFull YearActing Group Executive Human Resources (until 14 February 2012)Group Executive Group Corporate Affairs (from 15 February 2012)David CraigGroup Executive, Financial Services and Chief Financial OfficerFull YearMichael HarteGroup Executive, Enterprise Services and Chief Information OfficerFull YearMelanie LaingGroup Executive, Human Resources (from 15 February 2012)Part YearRoss McEwanGroup Executive, Retail Banking ServicesFull YearGrahame PetersenGroup Executive, Wealth Management (until 30 September 2011)Full YearGroup Executive, Business and Private Banking (from 1 October 2011)Ian SainesGroup Executive, Institutional Banking and MarketsFull YearAnnabel Spring Group Executive, Wealth Management (from 1 October 2011 )Part YearAlden ToevsGroup Chief Risk OfficerFull Year 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

1. Remuneration Governance  

1.1 People & Remuneration Committee  

The People & Remuneration Committee (the Committee) is the 
main governing body for setting remuneration policy across the 
Group.  The  Committee  develops  the  remuneration  philosophy, 
framework and policies, for Board approval.  

The  Committee  is  made  up  of  independent  Non-Executive 
Directors  (NEDs)  and  currently  consists  of  the  following 
members: 

 
 
 
 

Jane Hemstritch (Chairman); 
Carolyn Kay; 
Andrew Mohl; and  
David Turner. 

The  responsibilities  of  the  Committee  are  outlined  in  their 
Charter, which is reviewed annually by the Board. The Charter is 
available 
at 
www.commbank.com.au/shareholder. 

Group‟s 

website 

the 

on 

In summary, the Committee is responsible for recommending to 
the Board for approval: 

 

 

 

 

 

target  of 

the  head  of 

the  remuneration 
that  of 

Remuneration  for  senior  executive  appointments,  and 
the 
appointments  where 
individual  exceeds 
their 
business/service unit; 
Remuneration  arrangements  and  all  reward  outcomes  for 
the  CEO,  senior  direct  reports  to  the  CEO  and  other 
individuals whose roles may affect the financial soundness 
of the Group; 
Remuneration  arrangements  for  finance,  risk  &  internal 
control employees;  
Remuneration  arrangements  for  employees  who  have  a 
significant  portion  of  their  total  remuneration  based  on 
performance; and 
Significant  changes  in  remuneration  policy  and  structure, 
including  superannuation,  employee  equity  plans  and 
benefits. 

This year, the Committee‟s key areas of focus consisted of: 

 

 

 

 

 

is 

this  Committee 

The  retirement  of  Ralph  Norris  at  the  end  of  November, 
and the appointment of our new CEO Ian Narev; 
the  Risk  and  Remuneration  Review 
Establishing 
Committee.  The  purpose  of 
to 
systematically  review  material  risk and  compliance  issues 
within  the  Group,  and  recommend  any  consequences  for 
remuneration to the People & Remuneration Committee for 
approval.  During  the  2012  financial  year,  this  Committee 
met five times; 
The  annual  review  of  our  Group  Remuneration  Policy  in 
December 2011, and another review in March 2012 to note 
the  policy‟s  application  to  Bankwest,  in  anticipation  of  the 
transition into a single banking licence with CBA; 
A  review  of  the  Committee‟s  independent  remuneration 
consultant and appointment of a new consultant; 
Continued  monitoring  and  responses  to  regulatory  and 
legislative changes, both locally and offshore; ensuring our 
policies and practices remain compliant; 

 

Continued focus on embedding a remuneration framework 
that  is  appropriate  for  our  different  businesses  with 
transparency 
in  design,  strong  governance  and  risk 
oversight.  

Our Independent Remuneration Consultant  

The  Committee  seeks  executive  remuneration  information 
directly  from  its  external  remuneration  consultants  Aon  Hewitt 
and Ernst & Young (EY), who are independent of management.  

Aon  Hewitt  provided  input  to  the  Committee  until  the  end  of 
March  2012.  The  Committee  appointed  EY  as  its  independent 
remuneration consultant from April 2012.  

Throughout  2012,  the  main  information  received  from  the 
Committee‟s remuneration consultants related to: 

 
 
 

Regulatory reforms; 
Current market practices; and 
Benchmarking  to support the  annual  remuneration  review 
for the CEO and Group Executives. 

Aon Hewitt and EY have not made any remuneration decisions 
or recommendations in the 2012 financial year, but rather have 
provided input to assist the Committee in making remuneration 
decisions.  The  Committee  is  solely  responsible  for  making 
decisions within the terms of its Charter. 

1.2 Our Remuneration Philosophy   

remuneration  philosophy 

Our 
the  backbone  of  our 
remuneration  framework,  policies  and  processes.  In  summary, 
our remuneration philosophy for our CEO and Group Executives 
is to: 

is 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provide  target  remuneration  which  is  market  competitive, 
without putting upward pressure on the market;  
Align rewards with shareholder interests and our business 
strategy;  
Clearly articulate to Executives the link between individual 
and Group performance, and individual reward;  
Reward  superior  performance,  while  managing  risks 
that 
associated  with 
performance;  
Provide  flexibility  to  meet  changing  needs  and  emerging 
market practice; and  
Provide  appropriate  benefits  on  termination  that  do  not 
deliver any windfall payments not related to performance.  

and  measuring 

delivering 

1.3 Remuneration & Risk Management  

The Committee has an established framework for the systematic 
review  of  risk  and  compliance  issues  impacting  remuneration. 
The Committee: 

 

issues 

Takes  note  of  any  material  risk 
impacting 
remuneration and any issues raised by the Committee are 
also provided to the Board‟s Risk Committee for noting; 
  May  impose  adjustments  to  remuneration  outcomes  of 
Executives before or after the awards are made, subject to 
Board approval; 
Has  free  and  unfettered  access  to  all  risk,  legal  and 
financial control personnel as required. This is documented 
within the Committee Charter; and 

 

  Meeting with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority 
(APRA),  twice  during  the  year  to  discuss  our  Group 
remuneration  framework  and  its  relationship  to  managing 
risk; and 

  Works closely with the Board‟s Risk Committee to ensure 
that any risks associated with remuneration arrangements 
the  Group‟s  risk  management 
are  managed  within 
framework.  

72 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

The following diagram illustrates the Group‟s remuneration and risk governance framework: 

1.4 Non-Executive Directors Remuneration 

Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) receive base fees to recognise 
their  contribution  to  the  work  of  the  CBA  Board  and  the 
associated  committees  that  they  serve.  NEDs  do  not  receive 
any performance-related remuneration.  

The  total  amount  of  NEDs  fees  is  capped  by  a  pool  that  is 
approved  by shareholders. The current fee  pool  remains  at  $4 
million,  which  was  approved  by  shareholders  at  the  Annual 
General Meeting (AGM) on 13 November 2008.  

their  superannuation  salary,  capped  at 

NEDs also receive statutory superannuation contributions of 9% 
of 
the  relevant 
superannuation  concessional  contribution 
limit.  A  NEDs 
superannuation salary is 80% of their total base fees.  

Up until 31 December 2011, NEDs received 20% of their after-
tax  base  fees  as  CBA  shares.  Effective  from  1  January  2012, 
the  compulsory  participation  in  the  Non-Executive  Director 
Share Plan ceased for all current NEDs who hold 5,000 or more 
shares.  For  those  NEDs  who  have  holdings  below  this 
threshold, the 20% share purchase will continue to apply until a 
holding of 5,000 shares has been reached. 

The  Board  Performance  and  Renewal  Committee  review  the 
NEDs fee schedule annually and examine fee levels against the 
market.  

Effective  from  1  January  2012  the  Committee  approved  a  5% 
increase  to  NEDs  base  fees.  This  increase  assists  in  keeping 
NEDs  remuneration  arrangements  market  competitive  and  to 
retain  our  highly  skilled  and  talented  group  of  Board  NEDs. 
NEDs  have  not  received  an  increase  to  their  base  fees  since 
2008.  

The following  table outlines  the  NEDs fees for  the main Board 
and the Committees as at 30 June 2012: 

 (1)  In  previous  years  the  Chairman  of  the  Board  received  separate  fees  for 
Committee  work. The  Chairman‟s  aggregate  fees  until  31 December  2011 
were  $755,000.  From  1  January  2012  these  arrangements  have  changed 
and  the  Chairman  now  receives  a  single  fee  (which  incorporates  work 
performed on Board Committees). This is a common approach in the market 
and is consistent with our peers. 

We  have  two  NEDs  who  continue  to  hold  legacy  retirement 
entitlements  under 
the  Directors‟  Retirement  Allowance 
Scheme.  The  scheme  was  approved  by  shareholders  at  the 
1997 AGM. The scheme was discontinued in 2002, which froze 
entitlements for participants at that time and was closed to new 
participants.  

The  statutory 
individual 
table  on  page  82  provides 
remuneration  expense  for  each  NED  in  relation  to  the  2012 
performance year. 

the 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

73 

People& Remuneration CommitteeRisk & Remuneration Review CommitteeMonitoring & Reporting of Group Risk & Compliance Independent RemunerationConsultantCBA BoardRisk CommitteePositionFrom 1 July 2011Fees ($)From 1 January 2012Fees ($)BoardChairman (1)755,000792,750      Non-Executive Director210,000220,500      Audit CommitteeChairman50,00052,500        Member25,00026,250        Risk CommitteeChairman50,00052,500        Member25,00026,250        People & RemunerationChairman50,00052,500        CommitteeMember25,00026,250        Board Performance & Chairman10,00010,500        Renewal CommitteeMember10,00010,500         
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

2. Remuneration Framework  

The  remuneration  arrangements  of  our  CEO  and  Group 
Executives are made up of both fixed and at risk remuneration. 
This is composed of the following three elements: 

 
 
 

Fixed Remuneration; 
Short Term Incentive (STI) at Risk; and 
Long Term Incentive (LTI) at Risk. 

The at risk components are based on performance against key 
financial  and  non-financial  measures.  More  detail  on  executive 
remuneration and the link to performance is included in section 3 
of this report. 

2.1 Total Target Remuneration 

The following diagram illustrates the total target mix of the three 
remuneration elements: 

The  three  remuneration  elements  are  broken  down  into  equal 
portions of total target remuneration.  

When setting target remuneration levels, our key objective is to 
remain  competitive  by  attracting  and  retaining  highly  talented 
the  size  and 
Executives.  We  do 
responsibilities  of  each  role,  using  any  relevant  executive 
remuneration surveys and disclosed data. Target remuneration 
is  generally  set  around  the  market  median  for  similar  roles  at 
peer organisations. 

this  by  considering 

Importantly,  for  our  most  senior  roles,  we  aim  to  avoid  adding 
pressure to market remuneration levels. 

Each  component  of  remuneration  has  a  direct  link  to  our 
business strategy as detailed below. 

2.2 Fixed Remuneration 

 

 

Fixed Remuneration is made up of base remuneration and 
superannuation.  Base  remuneration  includes  cash  salary 
and any salary sacrifice items; 
superannuation 
The  Group 
contributions  of  9%  of  each  Executive‟s  superannuation 
salary,  capped  at  the  relevant  concessional  contribution 
limit; 

employer 

provides 

 

 

The  Board  determines  an  appropriate  level  of  fixed 
remuneration  for  the  CEO  and  Group  Executives,  with 
recommendations from the Committee; and 
Fixed  Remuneration  is  reviewed  annually,  following  the 
end  of  the  30  June  performance  year.  For  the  2013 
financial  year  there  will  be  no  Fixed  Remuneration 
increases for our Executives. 

2.3 Short Term Incentive  

 

 

 

 

 

 

The CEO and Group Executives have an STI target that is 
equal to 100% of their fixed remuneration. Executives will 
only  receive  the  full  amount  if  they  meet  all  their 
performance goals; 
The  CEO  and  Group  Executives  have  a  maximum  STI 
potential of 150% of their STI target. No STI awards will be 
made if the relevant performance goals are not met; 
Executives  receive  50%  of  their  STI  payment  as  cash 
following the Group‟s year-end results. The remaining 50% 
of  the  STI  payment  is  deferred  for  one  year  and  attracts 
interest at the CBA one year term deposit rate; 
The  CEO  and  Group  Executives  will  forfeit  the  deferred 
portion of their STI if they resign or are dismissed from the 
Group before the end of the deferral period; 
The  deferral  assists  in  managing  the  risk  of  losing  key 
Executive  talent.  It  also  allows  the  Board  to  reduce  or 
cancel the deferred component of the STI where business 
outcomes are materially lower than expected; and 
STI payments are made within a funding cap which is set 
by  the  Board.  The  Board  retains  discretion  to  adjust 
remuneration outcomes up or down to ensure consistency 
with  the  Group‟s  remuneration  philosophy  and  to  prevent 
any inappropriate reward outcomes.  

See section 3.1 for more detail on STI outcomes and the link to 
performance.  

2.4 Long Term Incentive 

 

 

 

 

 

The CEO and each Group Executive has an LTI target that 
is equal to 100% of their fixed remuneration; 
The LTI award has a four year performance period and is 
measured against relative Total Shareholder Return (TSR) 
and relative Customer Satisfaction performance hurdles; 
The  performance  hurdles  are  aligned  to  our  business 
strategy  of  Customer  Satisfaction  and  shareholder 
interests; 
Executives  only  receive  value  if  performance  hurdles  are 
met  at  the  end  of  the  four  years,  subject  to  final  Board 
review; and 
No dividends are paid while LTI awards are unvested. 

See section 3.2 for more detail on how the LTI award operates 
and its direct link to performance outcomes. 

74 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

1/31/31/350% STI Deferred for 12 months50% STI Cash paidFixedRemuneration100% LTI Deferred for 4 years 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

3. Linking Remuneration to Performance 

Our remuneration framework is designed to attract and retain high calibre Executives by rewarding them for achieving goals that are 
aligned to our business strategy. All our incentives are directly linked to both short term and long term performance goals. 

3.1 2012 Short Term Performance  

The table below provides an overview of our performance for the year ended 30 June 2012 against our key financial and non-financial 
performance measures. These measures are used to determine the individual STI outcomes of our Executives,  and are managed 
through a balanced scorecard approach. Financial objectives have a substantial weighting, and non-financial objectives vary by role. 
Executives  managing  business  units  typically  have  a  50%  weighting  on  financial  outcomes,  while  Executives  managing  support 
functions have a typical weighting of 30%.  

Performance 
Outcomes 
Customer 
Satisfaction & 
Reputation (1) 

2012 Key Achievements 

Customer satisfaction is measured across our core areas of Retail Banking, Business Banking, Wealth 
Management, and Institutional Banking.  

 

 

For  Retail  Banking,  during  the  2012  financial  year,  the  Bank  attained  its  highest  score  in  customer 
satisfaction for customers who use us as their main financial institution since the inception of the survey. At 
the same time, the Bank achieved its narrowest gap to the leader (among the four major banks). The Bank 
also improved its ranking during the year and is now second among the four major banks. 

In Business Banking, CBA has maintained outright or equal first position in customer satisfaction in both 
the  Micro  and  Large  segments  among  the  four  major  banks  for  the  entire  financial  year.  CBA  is  now 
outright or equal first position in the DBM Business Financial Services Monitor (BFSM, June 2012). 

  Wealth Management‟s platforms achieved a combined ranking of second for adviser satisfaction. 
 

In Institutional Banking, we continue to perform strongly. The DBM Business Financial Services Monitor 
has ranked CBA outright or equal first in Institutional Banking MFI customer satisfaction for 10 of the past 
12 months. CBA is now in outright first position in the DBM survey (June 2012). 

Profitable Growth  Profitable growth includes the broadening of our business into growth products and markets, in order 

to increase the returns to our shareholders. 

 

 

Domestically,  the  Group  focused  on  managing  core  businesses  to  deliver  optimal  returns  and  value  to 
shareholders,  while  meeting  the  needs  of  our  customers.  Average  products  per  customer  increased  to 
2.83, which remains the highest of the peer banks. 
Internationally, our Asian growth strategy continued to focus on targeted expansion in key growth regions 
including Indonesian branches and Chinese County banks. 

Solid financial performance against our key profit measures of Cash NPAT and PACC. 

Cash NPAT of $7,113 million was up 4% on the prior year. 
PACC (an internal risk adjusted financial measure) was slightly up on the performance for the prior year. 

 
 
  Over the past 5 years we have delivered growth in our financial performance (see historical Cash NPAT 

graph below). 

Cash Net Profit 
after Tax (NPAT) 
and Profit after 
Capital Charge 
(PACC) 

Technology & 
Operational 
Excellence  

Our  technology  programmes  are  designed  to  improve  efficiency  levels,  and  enhance  the  customer 
experience through more innovative systems and processes. 

 

 
 

The  Core Banking  Modernisation  initiative  has  been  a  four  year  programme,  which concludes  in  2012. 
Core affords our customers a safer, simpler way of banking, anywhere, anytime and in real-time. It is a 
source of competitive advantage, enabling our agility and innovation at the edge. 

Core and online underpin our brand differentiation and advantage. 
Banking is being redefined by devices and technology such as the industry leading “Kaching” app – we 
aim to enable our customers to bank easily and conveniently. 

Trust & Team 
Spirit  

We  focus  on  the  continued  engagement  of  our  People  to  ensure  there  is  direct  alignment  with  our 
business strategy. 

  We measure engagement through our People & Culture Survey. For 2012, the results from this survey 
indicated  that  we  have strong  levels  of  people  engagement  with a culture centred  on customer service 
excellence, collaboration and teamwork.  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

75 

4,7334,4156,1016,8357,11301,0002,0003,0004,0005,0006,0007,0008,000Jun 08Jun 09Jun 10Jun 11Jun 12$ Million 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

Trust & Team 
Spirit (continued) 

  Gender  diversity  is  a  key  Group  objective.  In  2009  the  Group  set  a  public  target  to  increase  the 
representation of women in leadership roles from 26.6% in December 2009 to 35% by December 2014. In 
2012,  we  have  progressed  towards  this  target,  with  30.9%  of  women  in  executive  roles  as  at  30  June 
2012.  In  January  2012,  the  Group  was  recognised  for  its  culture  change  programme  and  diversity 
initiatives  through  the  prestigious  Catalyst  award.  The  Group‟s  commitment  to  diversity  was  further 
recognised by the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency with an Employer of Choice for 
Women citation. 

(1)  Customer  satisfaction  is  measured  by  three  separate  surveys.  For  the  Retail  bank,  this  is  measured  by  Roy  Morgan  Research.  Roy  Morgan  Research  Main 
Financial Institution (MFI) Retail Customer Satisfaction. Australian population 14+, % “Very Satisfied” or “Fairly Satisfied” with a relationship with that MFI. 6-month 
rolling average. Note the institution definitions were updated in March 2012. For business banking, this is measured by DBM Business Financial Services Monitor 
(June  2012),  average  satisfaction  rating  of  each  financial  institution‟s  MFI  business  customers  across  all  Australian  businesses,  6  month  rolling  average.  For 
Wealth Management, customer satisfaction is measured by the Wealth Insights 2012 Service Level Report, Platforms. This survey measures satisfaction with the 
service of master trusts/wraps in Australia, by financial advisers. It includes Colonial First State‟s FirstChoice and FirstWrap platforms. For Institutional Banking, 
customer satisfaction is measured by DBM Business Financial  Services Monitor (June 2012) six month rolling average of MFI satisfaction ratings of Australian 
businesses. Institutional banking includes businesses with turnover of $100 million and above.  

Risk is  also  a key factor  in  accounting  for short term  performance. Firstly,  we  use PACC,  a  risk-adjusted measure,  as  one  of our 
primary measures of financial performance. It takes into account not just the profit achieved, but also considers the risk to capital that 
was  taken  to  achieve  it.  Secondly,  Executives  are  required  to  comply  with  the  relevant  Group  or  Business  Unit  Risk  Appetite 
Statement.  STI  awards  are  adjusted  downwards  where  material  risk  issues  occur.  Thirdly,  risk  is  also  managed  through  the 
compulsory 50% deferral of the CEO and Group Executives‟ STI outcomes for a period of 12 months and delivery of one third of their 
total target remuneration after a four year period. 

In February 2012, the Government announced that it will amend the Corporations Act 2001 to require listed companies to disclose to 
shareholders  their  arrangements  to  claw-back  bonuses  where  material  misstatement  has  occurred  in  relation  to  the  company‟s 
financial  statements.  Under  the  Group‟s  Remuneration  Policy,  the  Board  already  has  discretion  to  make  adjustments  to  deferred 
remuneration in various circumstances. Adjustments can include partial reductions or complete forfeiture of deferred STI awards. The 
new requirements will be reviewed to ensure our policies and processes fully comply.  
 3.2 Long Term Performance  

Our remuneration outcomes also focus on driving performance and creating shareholder alignment in the longer term. We do this by 
providing  our  Executives  with  LTI  awards  in  the  form  of  Reward  Rights  with  a  four  year  vesting  period.  Vesting  is  subject  to 
performance against Total Shareholder Return (TSR) and Customer Satisfaction hurdles. The table below provides an overview of the 
CEO and Group Executives‟ current LTI awards which have not yet vested.  

Overview of long term incentive awards outstanding during the 2012 Financial Year 

Performance 
Period Ends 

30 June 2013 

Equity Plan 

Performance Hurdles 

Progress 

Group 
Leadership 
Reward Plan 
(GLRP) 

Each award is split and tested: 

 
 

50% TSR relative to peer group 
50% Customer Satisfaction ranking relative to peer group 

In progress 

30 June 2014 

GLRP 

Each award is split and tested: 

 
 

75% TSR relative to peer group 
25% Customer Satisfaction ranking relative to peer group 

In progress 

30 June 2015 

GLRP 

Each award is split and tested: 

 
 

75% TSR relative to peer group 
25% Customer Satisfaction ranking relative to peer group 

In progress 

GLRP Award vested during 2012 Financial Year 

The GLRP award granted during the 2010 financial year reached the end of its three year performance period on 30 June 2012. This 
was a one-off transitional award made during the 2010 financial year, when LTI arrangements moved from a three year to a four year 
performance period. This transitional grant was made in addition to the normal 2010 GLRP award which has a four year performance 
period and is due to vest on 30 June 2013. 

The GLRP 2010 award is weighted against two performance hurdles, Customer Satisfaction (50% of the award) and TSR (50% of the 
award). At the end of the performance period, the results against these measures were solid and included: 

 
 
 
 

100% vesting against the TSR hurdle. 
75% vesting against the Customer Satisfaction hurdle. 
In line with the plan rules for this award, 87.5% of the total award vested. 
The  Board  reviewed  the  measurement  outcomes  of  this  award  and  approved  that  the  above  vesting  appropriately  reflects 
performance over the three year performance period. No discretion was exercised. 

76 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

2012 GLRP Award granted in the 2012 Financial Year 

The CEO and Group Executives currently receive LTI awards under the GLRP. The awards granted may deliver value to Executives at 
the end of the four year performance period, subject to meeting performance hurdles as set out in the diagram below: 

The following table provides the key features of the 2012 GLRP award: 

Feature 

Description 

Instrument 

Reward Rights. Each Reward Right entitles the Executive to receive one CBA share (or its cash equivalent) in 
the future, subject to meeting the performance hurdles set out below. The number of shares that vest will not 
be known until the end of the performance period.  

Determining the 
number of Reward 
Rights  

The number of Reward Rights allocated depends on each Executive‟s LTI Target (see diagram on page 74 for 
explanation of target remuneration). The number of Reward Rights allocated is calculated taking into account 
the expected number of shares to vest at the end of the performance period.  

Performance Period  The performance period commences at the beginning of the financial year in which the award is granted. For 

the GLRP award granted in the 2012 financial year, the performance period starts at 1 July 2011 and ends 
after four years on 30 June 2015. Any vesting will result in participants receiving shares (or their cash 
equivalent) during the first available trading window following the end of the performance period. 

Performance  
Hurdles 

 

 

75% of each award is subject to a performance hurdle which measures the Group‟s TSR performance 
relative to a set peer group(1). This is made up of the 20 largest companies on the Australian Securities 
Exchange (ASX) by market capitalisation at the beginning of the performance period, excluding resources 
companies and CBA; and 
25% of each award is subject to a performance hurdle that measures the Group‟s Customer Satisfaction 
outcomes relative to a separate peer group(2). 

Vesting Framework   TSR (75% of the award) 

 

 
 

 

100% vesting is achieved if the Group‟s TSR is ranked in the top quarter of the peer group (i.e. 75th 
percentile or higher); 

If the Group is ranked at the median, 50% of the Reward Rights will vest; 
Vesting increases on a sliding scale if the Group is ranked between the median and the 75th percentile; 
and 
No Reward Rights in this part of the award will vest if the Group‟s TSR is ranked below the median of the 
peer group. 

Customer Satisfaction (25% of the award) 

 
 
 
 

 

100% vesting applies if the Group is ranked first relative to our peers in each of the three surveys; 
75% will vest if the Group is ranked first across two of the three surveys; 
50% will vest if the Group is ranked at least second across the three surveys; 
The Board will exercise discretion to determine the portion to vest where our ranking has improved, but in 
a different variation than those described above; and 

None of the Reward Rights in this portion of the award will vest where the Board determines that our 
overall Customer Satisfaction at the end of the performance period is worse than it was at the beginning.  

The Board always retains the discretion to take into account any unforeseen changes or events and prevent 
any unintended outcomes. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

77 

Reward Rightsgranted4 year performance periodCustomer Satisfaction hurdle = 25%Total Shareholder Return hurdle = 75% 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

Calculation of the 
performance results 

 
 
 

TSR is calculated independently by Standard & Poors; 
Customer Satisfaction is measured with reference to the three independent surveys below: 
Roy Morgan Research (measuring customer satisfaction across Retail Banking); 
- 
DBM, Business Financial Services Monitor (measuring customer satisfaction across Business 
- 
Banking); and 

-  Wealth Insights 2012 Service Level Report, Platforms (measuring customer satisfaction across 

Wealth Management). 

Board discretion 

The Board also retains sole discretion to determine the amount of any award that may vest (if any) to prevent 
any unintended outcomes, or in the event of a corporate restructuring or event, e.g. a takeover. 

Expiry 

At the end of the applicable performance period, any Reward Rights that have not vested will expire.  

(1) The peer group (at the beginning of the performance period) for the TSR performance hurdle (at the time of grant) comprised Amcor Limited, AMP Limited, Australia 
and New Zealand Banking Group Limited, Brambles Industries Limited, Coca Cola Amatil Limited, CSL Limited, Foster‟s Group Limited, Insurance Australia Group 
Limited,  Macquarie  Group  Limited,  National  Australia  Bank  Limited,  QBE  Insurance  Group  Limited,  Orica  Limited,  Stockland,  Suncorp-Metway  Limited,  Telstra 
Corporation Limited, Wesfarmers Limited, Westfield Group Limited, Westfield Retail Trust, Westpac Banking Corporation and Woolworths Limited. During the 2012 
financial year, the Board adopted a „reserve bench‟ of companies (the next 5 largest companies on the ASX), for each outstanding LTI award, in order to maintain an 
appropriate  peer  group  with  any  corporate  changes  occurring  each  year  that  results  in  a  delisting.  During  2012,  Foster‟s  Group  Limited  was  replaced  with 
Transurban Holdings Limited for the GLRP award granted in the 2012 financial year. 

(2) The peer group for the Customer Satisfaction performance hurdle includes Australia & New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ), National Australia Bank Limited 

(NAB), and Westpac Banking Corporation (WBC) and other key competitors for our Wealth business such as AMP Limited and Macquarie Group Limited. 

Hedging of Unvested Equity Awards  

Employees  are  prohibited from  hedging  in  relation  to  all  their  unvested  CBA  equity  awards,  including  shares  or  rights.  This  activity 
includes Executives controlling their exposure to risk in relation to their unvested awards. The CEO‟s direct reports are also prohibited 
from using instruments or arrangements for margin borrowing, short selling or stock lending of any Bank securities or the securities of 
any other member of the Group. All hedging restrictions are included in the Group‟s Securities Trading Policy. 

Long Term Performance against key measures 

As  detailed  above,  our  long  term  incentive  arrangements  are  designed  to  align  our  Executives  with  our  long  term  strategy  and 
shareholder interests. The remainder of this section illustrates our performance against key related metrics over time.  

Performance against shareholder return  

The following graphs show our share price movement and full-year dividend results over the past five financial years (including 2012). 
The solid performance shows that we have delivered sound returns to our shareholders. 

Share Price 

CBA Dividends Per Share 

78 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

$0$10$20$30$40$50$60$70Jun 06Jun 07Jun 08Jun 09Jun 10Jun 11Jun 12Share Price2.662.282.903.203.34$0.00$0.50$1.00$1.50$2.00$2.50$3.00$3.50$4.00Jun 08Jun 09Jun 10Jun 11Jun 12 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

Relative TSR Performance Against Our Peers 

The graph below represents CBA‟s TSR performance against our comparator peer group for the period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2012. 
The Group was ranked in the upper quartile relative to the peer group at the end of the period. TSR is calculated independently by 
Standard & Poors. 

Performance against Customer Satisfaction 

The following graphs show our customer satisfaction performance across our Retail and Business areas. In our Wealth Management 
sector we were ranked second for advisor satisfaction, for the year ended 30 June 2012. Overall, we have made positive improvements 
against this measure, and continue to keep customer satisfaction as the core of our strategy and vision. 

Retail Main Financial Institution Customer Satisfaction - Competitive Context 

- Competitive Context 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

79 

-60%-40%-20%0%20%40%60%80%100%Total Shareholder Return 2012 (3 years)Comparator Peer Group 60%65%70%75%80%85%90%Jan-06Mar-06Jun-06Sep-06Dec-06Mar-07Jun-07Sep-07Dec-07Mar-08Jun-08Sep-08Dec-08Mar-09Jun-09Sep-09Dec-09Mar-10Jun-10Sep-10Dec-10Mar-11Jun-11Sep-11Dec-11Mar-12Jun-12% Satisfied ('Very Satisfied' or 'Fairly Satisfied')Peer 1CBAPeer 2Peer 3Diff to No.1 -12.3%1.4%9.8%Source: Roy Morgan Research6 month rolling average 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

Business Main Financial Institution Customer Satisfaction - Competitive Context 

3.3 Performance Timeline of At Risk Remuneration Outcomes 

Our Performance Management framework supports decisions in awarding appropriate annual STI outcomes for our Executives. The 
STI performance objectives are communicated to Executives at the beginning of the performance year. Executives‟ annual performance 
evaluations are conducted following the end of the financial year. For 2012, the evaluations were conducted in July 2012.  

The following diagram outlines the timing of the STI and LTI awards made to the Executives over the relevant performance periods. All 
awards are subject to risk and compliance review. 

80 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

678Mar-10May-10Jul-10Sep-10Nov-10Jan-11Mar-11May-11Jul-11Sep-11Nov-11Jan-12Mar-12May-12Satisfaction -AveragePeer 1Peer 2Peer 3CBASource: DBM, Business Financial Services Monitor6 month rolling averageSTI Annual Performance ReviewSTI outcomes determined & approved by Board50 % of STI outcome paid as cashJun2013LTI LTI awards approved by BoardGroup Executives grant of LTI awardCEO grant of LTI awardJuly 201130 Jun 2012Jul 2012Aug 2012Sep 2012November201230 June 2016Vests subject to  Risk Review and meeting set Performance HurdlesBoard Sets StrategySTI Targets are set Subject to Risk & Compliance ReviewVesting subject to Risk ReviewPerformance Measurement PeriodFollowing Shareholder Approval50% STI deferredfor 1 year LTI Award deferred for 4 years 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

3.4 CEO and Group Executive Remuneration Received in the year ended 30 June 2012  
The incentives awarded to our CEO and Group Executives are directly linked to the Group‟s solid financial performance.  

Total statutory remuneration recognised for our CEO and Group Executives for the 2012 performance year was $51.7 million and is the 
total  of  the  values  for  each  executive  shown  in  the  statutory  remuneration  tables  on  pages  83  and  84.  Statutory  remuneration 
disclosures  are  prepared  in  accordance  with  the  Corporations  Act  and  Australian  Accounting  Standards.  Total  cash  remuneration 
received by our CEO and Group Executives for the 2012 performance year was $22.0 million. The total cash remuneration received 
basis is used by management to present a clear view of the Group‟s remuneration payments made to our CEO and Group Executives 
during the performance year. 

Table (a) below shows cash remuneration received in relation to the 2012 performance year. The total cash payments  received are 
made up of base remuneration and superannuation (fixed remuneration), and the non-deferred portion of the 2012 STI award. This 
table also includes the value of previous years‟ deferred awards which vested during 2012. 
 (a) Cash Remuneration in relation to the 2012 financial year 

  (1)  Base  Remuneration  and  Superannuation  make  up  an  Executive's  Fixed  Remuneration.  Ralph  Norris  retired  from  the  Group  on  30  November  2011,  his  fixed 

remuneration has been prorated to reflect the portion of the year served. This also includes his payment in lieu of notice of $435,687. 

(2) This is 50% of the 2012 STI for performance during the 12 months to 30 June 2012 (payable following year-end). The remaining 50% is deferred until 1 July 2013. 
For Ralph Norris this includes 100% of his prorated STI payment, in recognition of the performance year served up to his retirement date of 30 November 2011.  

(3) The value of all deferred cash and/or equity awards that vested during the 2012 financial year. This includes the value of the award that vested, plus any interest 

and/or dividends accrued during the vesting period. 

(4) The value of any deferred cash and/or equity awards that were forfeited/lapsed during the 2012 financial year. This includes the majority portion of the available pool 

under the Group Leadership Share Plan (GLSP) award which forfeited/lapsed during 2012.  

(5) Ian Narev‟s Fixed Remuneration increased effective his commencement date in the CEO role on 1 December 2011 (to $2.5m Fixed Remuneration on an annualised 
basis). Melanie Laing joined the Group on 15 February 2012. Annabel Spring commenced in the KMP role effective 1 October 2011. The remuneration for these 
Executives has been prorated accordingly. 

(b) CEO Reconciliation table of cash payments from table (a) and statutory remuneration table on page 83 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

81 

Base Remuneration &2012 STI forPerformance toTotal cash payments in relation Deferred CashDeferred Equity Superannuation (1)30 June 2012 (2)to the 2012 yearAwardsAwards$$$$$$Managing Director and CEOIan Narev(5)1,845,779                   999,544               2,845,323                      512,939        723,973( 1,164,225)Current ExecutivesSimon Blair830,000                      438,863               1,268,863                      534,388        -                                           -   David Cohen900,000                      540,675               1,440,675                      550,015        609,188( 1,827,563)David Craig1,380,000                   777,975               2,157,975                      869,042        1,348,615( 2,030,625)Michael Harte1,075,000                   572,706               1,647,706                      576,643        1,191,388( 1,827,563)Melanie Laing(5)299,454                      159,834               459,288                         -               -                                           -   Ross McEwan1,300,000                   607,750               1,907,750                      680,406        1,447,890( 2,328,450)Grahame Petersen1,175,000                   559,348               1,734,348                      434,672        1,268,812( 2,328,450)Ian Saines 1,330,000                   664,169               1,994,169                      644,483        1,171,781( 1,164,225)Annabel Spring(5)733,661                      373,617               1,107,278                      -               -                                           -   Alden Toevs1,430,000                   715,000               2,145,000                      838,719        -               ( 1,575,765)Former ExecutiveRalph Norris1,739,950                   1,560,000            3,299,950                      1,660,825     4,166,117( 8,669,415)Previous years' awards that vested during 2012 (3)LTI AwardsPrevious years' awards forfeited/lapsed during 2012 (4)Cash remuneration received in relation to 2012 - refer to table (a) above2,845,323       n/a2012 STI deferred for 12 months at risk999,544          2013Annual leave and long service leave accruals276,855          n/aOther Payments33,752            n/aShare based payments: accounting expense for 2012 for LTI awards made over the past 4 years  2010 GLRP:Expense for 2 awards that may vest subject to improved customer satisfaction performance414,568          2013 & 2014  2010 GLRP:Expense for 2 awards that may vest subject to improved relative TSR performance333,953          2013 & 2014  2011 GLRP:Expense for 1 award that may vest subject to improved customer satisfaction performance107,647          2015  2011 GLRP:Expense for 1 award that may vest subject to improved relative TSR performance186,723          2015  2012 GLRP:Expense for 1 award that may vest subject to improved customer satisfaction performance143,107          2016  2012 GLRP:Expense for 1 award that may vest subject to improved relative TSR performance334,574          2016Total Statutory Remuneration as per page 835,676,046       2012$Financial year award vests 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

4. KMP Disclosure Tables 

4.1 NED Statutory Remuneration 

The statutory table below details individual statutory remuneration for the Non-Executive Directors for the year ended 30 June 2012. 

(1) Cash includes Board and Committee base fees received as cash. NEDs received a 5% increase in base fees effective 1 January 2012.   

(2) Superannuation includes statutory contributions and any allocations made by way of salary sacrifice. 

(3) Effective from 1 January 2012, the compulsory 20% deferral of NED base fees into CBA shares ceased for most NEDs (see page 73 for further details). For 2012, 
the values under the NED Share plan are significantly lower in comparison to 2011, with a greater portion of base fees received as cash. The values shown in the 
table are the pre-tax portion of fees received as shares.  

(4) Colin Galbraith and Fergus Ryan are entitled to a retirement allowance which was frozen in 2002. The entitlements are $159,092 and $168,263 respectively. 

(5) Brian Long commenced with the Group on 1 September 2010 and Launa Inman commenced on 16 March 2011. Their 2011 fees have been prorated to reflect the 

time served in 2011. 

82 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Short Term BenefitsPost employment BenefitsShare-based paymentsRetiring Non-executiveTotalSuper-AllowanceDirectors'StatutoryCash (1)annuation (2)PaidShare Plan (3)Remuneration$$$$$ChairmanDavid Turner2012705,49850,000-                          76,121831,6192011608,36050,000-                          151,000809,360Non-Executive DirectorsJohn Anderson2012227,07818,128-                          24,701269,9072011196,00017,640-                          49,000262,640Colin Galbraith (4)2012250,24919,978-                          27,222297,4492011216,00019,440-                          54,000289,440Jane Hemstritch2012264,15221,088-                          28,734313,9742011228,00020,520-                          57,000305,520Launa Inman (5)2012193,20217,388-                          48,301258,891201154,0714,866-13,51872,455Carolyn Kay2012264,15221,088-                          28,734313,9742011228,00020,520-                          57,000305,520Brian Long  (5)2012257,02920,447-                          26,953304,4292011168,17515,136-                          42,044225,355Andrew Mohl2012224,98135,238-                          26,214286,4332011192,00034,720-                          52,000278,720Fergus Ryan (4)2012218,10446,204-                          27,995292,3032011228,00020,520-                          57,000305,520Harrison Young2012264,15221,088-                          28,734313,9742011228,00020,520-                          57,000305,520 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

4.2 Executive Statutory Remuneration  

The statutory tables below detail the statutory accounting expense of all remuneration related items for the CEO and all Group Executives. 
This includes remuneration costs in relation to both the previous and current performance year. The tables are different to the Cash Table on 
page 81, which shows the remuneration received in 2012 rather than the accrual amounts, as outlined in these statutory tables.  

The tables have been developed and audited against the relevant accounting standards. See footnotes below each table for more detail of 
each remuneration component. 

(a) Current Executives 

(1) Cash Fixed remuneration is the total cost of salary, including annual leave accruals and any salary sacrificed benefits.  

(2) Non Monetary Fixed represents the cost of car parking (including associated fringe benefits tax). 

(3) This includes the 50% portion of the total STI payment in recognition of performance for the year ended 30 June 2012.  

(4) STI Deferred includes the compulsory deferral of 50% (2011: 50%) of total STI payments in recognition of performance for the year ended 30 June 2012. 

(5) Other Short Term Benefits relate to company funded benefits (including associated fringe benefits tax where applicable). This item also includes interest accrued in relation 
to the CEO and Group Executives‟ 2011 STI deferred award which vested on 1 July 2012. For Melanie Laing this includes a cash payment of $380,000 relating to her sign-
on arrangements when joining the Group on 15 February 2012.  

(6) Includes long service entitlements accrued during the year. For Melanie Laing and Ross McEwan this also includes amounts relating to equity sign-on and other special 

arrangements. These equity awards are subject to forfeiture if the Executive ceases to be employed by the Group due to his or her resignation in any circumstances. 

(7) For the 2011 comparative, this includes the 2011 expense for Performance Rights awarded under the Group Leadership Share Plan during the 2009 financial year. 

(8) This includes the 2012 expense for Reward Shares/Rights awarded during the 2010, 2011 and 2012 financial years under the GLRP.  

(9) The percentage of 2012 remuneration related to performance was: Ian Narev 62%, Simon Blair 63%, David Cohen 69%, David Craig 67%, Michael Harte 67%, Melanie 

Laing 30%, Ross McEwan 56%, Grahame Petersen 67%, Ian Saines 68%, Annabel Spring 52% and Alden Toevs 63%. 

(10) During 2012, there were some changes in the executive team. Ian Narev was appointed to the CEO role effective 1 December 2011; Melanie Laing commenced with the 
Group on 15 February 2012; Annabel Spring was appointed to the Group Executive Wealth Management role on 1 October 2011. The remuneration for these executives 
has been prorated accordingly. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

83 

Post employment Long-term benefitsCash Fixed (1)$Non Monetary Fixed (2)$Cash STI Payment At Risk (3)$STI Deferred At Risk (4)$Other (5)$Superannuation fixed$Other (6)$LTI Performance Rights At Risk (7)$LTI Reward Shares/Rights  At Risk (8)$Total Statutory Remuneration (9)$Managing Director and CEOIan Narev (10) 20121,964,2815,763999,544999,54427,98925,000133,353-1,520,5725,676,0462011943,23613,515488,250488,25034,94425,00017,179(129,358)800,8252,681,841Group ExecutivesSimon Blair  2012878,45013,787438,863438,86325,72150,00023,081-786,0212,654,7862011807,53413,398508,667508,66723,05750,00021,483-437,0602,369,866David Cohen    2012909,83613,787540,675540,67526,47350,00027,165-1,210,4603,319,0712011877,52113,398523,542523,54224,95850,00022,152(203,063)775,5852,607,635David Craig 20121,433,39213,787777,975777,97541,82950,00038,862-1,670,4984,804,31820111,411,99813,398827,213827,21331,76450,00065,468(225,625)1,035,0964,036,525Michael Harte20121,130,54814,953572,706572,70643,45825,00060,852-1,420,1283,840,35120111,103,63016,835548,888548,88851,65325,00028,200(203,063)903,7493,023,780Melanie Laing (10) 2012284,3041,152159,834159,834380,00037,706274,639-91,2671,388,736Ross McEwan 20121,271,53613,627607,750607,75037,03950,000997,824-1,755,9355,341,46120111,292,05513,398647,657647,65745,25750,00059,553(258,717)1,126,5153,623,375Grahame Petersen20121,211,81516,558559,348559,34820,92250,00058,822-1,607,2504,084,06320111,185,05015,929488,750488,75033,27750,00076,738(258,717)1,033,4583,113,235Ian Saines 20121,378,19213,787664,169664,16931,02050,00046,728-1,876,8624,724,92720111,347,89913,398613,463613,46339,32787,31344,610(129,358)1,215,6263,845,741Annabel Spring (10)2012800,82010,142373,617373,617-18,71611,463-171,7251,760,100Alden Toevs          20121,487,49613,787715,000715,00079,16950,00038,775-1,399,0994,498,32620111,445,32914,047798,350798,35098,86250,00036,948(187,618)1,302,7604,357,028Short Term Benefits Share-based payments 
 
  
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

4.2 Executive Statutory Remuneration (continued) 

(b) Former Executive 

Ralph Norris retired from the Group on 30 November 2011. His remuneration includes cash and STI payments, and LTI accruals, in 
relation to the period 1 July 2011 to 30 November 2011, when he was included in the KMP disclosures. Unlike other Executives, the 
table  below  reflects  the  disclosable  accruals  for  all  previously  granted  LTI  awards  that  remain  unvested  following  Ralph  Norris‟ 
retirement, up to the end of each performance period. This means that for Ralph Norris, up to three years of each unvested LTI award 
has  been  disclosed  in  the  2012  financial  year,  including  those  amounts  which  would  otherwise  have  been  included  in  future  year 
disclosures. These LTI awards, which were previously approved by shareholders, may or may not vest and still remain subject to the 
relevant performance hurdles. No new LTI grants have been or will be made to Ralph Norris following his retirement from the Group.  

(1) Previously disclosed in the 2011 financial year. 

(2) Cash Fixed remuneration is the total cost of salary, including annual leave accruals and any salary sacrificed benefits. The remuneration has been prorated for the 

2012 financial year to reflect the portion of the year served up to Ralph Norris‟ retirement date. 

(3) This includes the total STI payment awarded in recognition of performance for the portion of the 2012 financial year served up to Ralph Norris‟ retirement date.  

(4) For the 2012 financial year this item includes interest accrued in relation to Ralph Norris‟ 2011 STI deferred award and his payment in lieu of notice, which was part 

of his contractual arrangements.  

(5) Reflects long service entitlements accrued during the year and for the 2012 financial year the reversal of Ralph Norris‟ accrued long service leave which he forfeited 

upon his exit from the Group. 

(6) For the 2011 comparative, this includes the 2011 expense for Performance Rights awarded under the Group Leadership Share Plan during the 2009 financial year. 

(7) For the 2012 financial year this includes the amounts for Reward Shares/Rights awarded during the 2010 and 2011 financial years under the GLRP for the period 1 

July 2011 to 30 November 2011. Due to his impending retirement, Ralph Norris did not participate in the LTI award made in the 2012 financial year. 

(8) Previously allocated LTI awards remain in place on retirement and may vest in the future if performance conditions are met, which is consistent with the LTI plan 

rules. 

(9) This includes expense for Reward Shares/Rights awarded during the 2010 and 2011 financial years under the GLRP for the period 1 December 2011 to 30 June 

2012. 

(10) This includes expense for Reward Shares/Rights awarded during the 2010 and 2011 financial years under the GLRP for the period 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013. 

(11) This includes expense for Reward Shares/Rights awarded during the 2011 financial year under the GLRP for the period 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014. 

(12) This does not represent cash remuneration received in the 2012 financial year. For the cash remuneration refer to page 81. 

84 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

20122011 (1)Former executive - Ralph Norris$M $M Short term benefitsCash Fixed (2)1,381,8103,316,557Non Monetary Fixed--Cash STI Payment at Risk (3)1,560,0001,638,000STI Deferred At Risk-1,638,000Other (4)458,51391,965Post employmentSuperannuation Fixed20,90250,000Long-term benefitsOther (5)(470,790)84,022Share-based paymentsLTI Performance Rights At Risk(6)-(963,268)LTI Reward Shares/Rights At Risk(7)1,276,6262,782,896Total Statutory Remuneration to 30 November 20114,227,0611 December 2011 - 30 June 2012 (9)2,346,765-1 July 2012 - 30 June 2013 (10)2,112,230-1 July 2013 - 30 June 2014 (11)927,198-Total Statutory Remuneration (12)9,613,2548,638,172Expense for previously granted share-based awards that may vest subject to improved customer satisfaction and relative TSR performance post retirement relating to (8) : 
 
 
 
  
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

4.3 Executive STI allocations for 2012 

(1) The maximum STI is represented as a percentage of Fixed Remuneration. The minimum STI potential is zero.  

(2) Includes 50% of the annual STI award payable as cash in recognition of performance for the year ended 30 June 2012.  

(3) This represents 50% of the STI award that is deferred until 1 July 2013. The deferred awards are subject to Board review at time of payment.  

(4) Ian Narev commenced in the CEO role on 1 December 2011 (with an increase in STI target). Melanie Laing joined the Group on 15 February 2012. Annabel Spring 

commenced in the KMP role effective 1 October 2011. The STI target for these Executives has been prorated accordingly.  

(5)  Ralph  Norris  retired  from  the  Group  on  30  November  2011.  The  STI  award  is  in  recognition  of  the  portion  of  the  2012  performance  year  served.  The  Board 

determined the award in normal time, following year-end and no deferral was applied to the prorated award. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

85 

STI Target Maximum STI Potential (1) $%%$%$Managing Director and CEOIan Narev (4)        1,845,779 150%50%           999,544 50%           999,544 Group ExecutivesSimon Blair           830,000 150%50%           438,863 50%           438,863 David Cohen            900,000 150%50%           540,675 50%           540,675 David Craig        1,380,000 150%50%           777,975 50%           777,975 Michael Harte         1,075,000 150%50%           572,706 50%           572,706 Melanie Laing (4)           299,454 150%50%           159,834 50%           159,834 Ross McEwan         1,300,000 150%50%           607,750 50%           607,750 Grahame Petersen        1,175,000 150%50%           559,348 50%           559,348 Ian Saines        1,330,000 150%50%           664,169 50%           664,169 Annabel Spring (4)           733,661 150%50%           373,617 50%           373,617 Alden Toevs         1,430,000 150%50%           715,000 50%           715,000 Former Executive (5)Ralph Norris        1,304,262 150%100%        1,560,000                        -                        - STI Paid (2)STI Portion Deferred (3) 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

4.4 Equity Awards Received as Remuneration 

The table below details the value and number of equity awards that were granted, exercised or forfeited/lapsed during 2012. It also 
shows the number of previous year‟s awards that vested during the 2012 performance year. For more information about the total equity 
holdings of KMP, see Note 43 to the financial statements. 

(1) This represents the maximum number of reward rights that may vest to each Executive. The value represents the fair value at grant date. 

(2) Previous years‟ awards that vested include LTI and other deferred equity awards. There are no instruments that would require the exercise of a right to receive an 

ordinary share.  

(3)  This  includes  the  portion  of  the  available  pool  under  Group  Leadership  Share  Plan  (GLSP)  award  which  forfeited/lapsed  during  2012.  The  impact  of  the 

forfeited/lapsed portion of the GLSP pool is shown in the table on page 83 under „LTI Performance Rights At Risk‟. 

(4) Ralph Norris retired from the Group on 30 November 2011. No new LTI awards were granted to Ralph during the 2012 financial year. 

86 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Previousyears' awardsvestedduring 2012 (2)NameClassUnits$UnitsUnits$Managing Director and CEOIan NarevReward Shares/Rights             81,620         2,761,791                  7,553 (22,657)(1,164,225)Deferred Shares                       -                        -                  5,976                        -                        - Group ExecutivesSimon BlairReward Shares/Rights             24,854            846,637                          -                        -                        - Deferred Shares                       -                        -                          -                        -                        - David Cohen Reward Shares/Rights             26,950            918,035                11,856 (35,567)(1,827,563)Deferred Shares                       -                        -                          -                        -                        - David Craig Reward Shares/Rights             41,322         1,407,607                13,173 (39,518)(2,030,625)Deferred Shares                       -                        -                11,951                        -                        - Michael Harte Reward Shares/Rights             32,190         1,096,532                11,856 (35,567)(1,827,563)Deferred Shares                       -                        -                10,358                        -                        - Melaine LaingReward Shares/Rights             23,954            820,727                          -                        -                        - Deferred Shares             10,961            550,023                          -                        -                        - Ross McEwan Reward Shares/Rights             38,927         1,326,021                15,105 (45,314)(2,328,450)Deferred Shares             50,886         2,500,029                11,951                        -                        - Grahame PetersenReward Shares/Rights             35,184         1,198,517                15,105 (45,314)(2,328,450)Deferred Shares                       -                        -                  8,765                        -                        - Ian SainesReward Shares/Rights             39,824         1,356,575                  7,553 (22,657)(1,164,225)Deferred Shares                       -                        -                13,943                        -                        - Annabel SpringReward Shares/Rights             29,342            992,855                          -                        -                        - Deferred Shares                       -                        -                          -                        -                        - Alden Toevs Reward Shares/Rights             42,819         1,458,599                          - (30,666)(1,575,765)Deferred Shares                       -                        -                          -                        -                        - Former Executive (4)Ralph Norris Reward Shares/Rights                       -                        -                56,239 (168,716)(8,669,415)Deferred Shares                       -                        -                39,167                        -                        - Forfeited orGrantedlapsedduring 2012 (1)during 2012 (3) 
 
  
  
  
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

4.5 Fair Value Assumptions for unvested Equity Awards  
  For the Customer Satisfaction component of all LTI awards, the fair value is the closing market price of a CBA share as at the grant 
date. For the Total Shareholder Return component of the LTI awards, the fair value has been calculated using a Monte-Carlo simulation 
method using the following assumptions: 

(1) The performance hurdle for this portion of the GLRP award is Customer Satisfaction relative to our peers.  
(2) The performance hurdle for this portion of the GLRP award is Total Shareholder Return relative to our peers. 

4.6 Termination Arrangements 

The table below provides the termination arrangements included in all Executive contracts for our current KMP. 

Need to get this table in excel to link it. 

(1) Permanent contracts are ongoing until notice is given by either party.  

(2) Severance applies where termination is initiated by the Group, other than for misconduct or unsatisfactory performance.  

The termination entitlements are appropriate and do not deliver windfall payments on termination that are not related to performance. 
As part of these arrangements, Executives who resign or are dismissed will forfeit all their deferred awards (including cash and equity 
awards),  and  will  generally  not  be  entitled  to  a  STI  payment  for  that  year.  Where  an  Executive‟s  exit  is  related  to  retrenchment, 
retirement  or  death,  the  Executive  may  be  entitled  to  a  STI  payment.  Any  outstanding  LTI  awards  continue  unchanged  and 
performance  is  measured  at  the  end  of  the  performance  period  related  to  each  award.  The  Board  has  ultimate  discretion  over  the 
amount of awards that may vest. 

Ralph  Norris  was  the  only  KMP  who  left  the  Group  during  the  2012  financial  year.  The  payments  made  to  Ralph  Norris  upon  his 
retirement were in line with the policy as set out above. The Board approved the vesting of the deferred portion of his 2011 STI award 
after review of performance, risk, compliance and capacity to pay issues. Ralph Norris‟ outstanding LTI awards remain unchanged, with 
performance measured at the end of the performance period for each respective award. These outcomes are in line with the associated 
STI and LTI plan rules. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

87 

GLRP - Reward Rights (1)15/02/201250.23 Nil 30/06/2015n/an/an/an/aGLRP - Reward Rights (2)15/02/201231.87 Nil 30/06/20153.4Nil304.4GLRP - Reward Rights (1)15/11/201149.15 Nil 30/06/2015n/an/an/an/aGLRP - Reward Rights (2)15/11/201131.60 Nil 30/06/20153.6Nil304.2GLRP - Reward Rights (1)29/08/201147.96 Nil 30/06/2015n/an/an/an/aGLRP - Reward Rights (2)29/08/201132.23 Nil 30/06/20153.8Nil304.7GLRP - Reward Rights (1)10/03/201151.30 Nil 30/06/2014n/an/an/an/aGLRP - Reward Rights (2)10/03/201136.51 Nil 30/06/20143.3Nil305.5GLRP - Reward Rights (1)27/09/201052.86 Nil 30/06/2014n/an/an/an/aGLRP - Reward Rights (2)27/09/201037.62 Nil 30/06/20143.8Nil305.5GLRP - Reward Shares (1)25/09/200951.30 Nil 30/06/2012n/an/an/an/aGLRP - Reward Shares (2)25/09/200936.52 Nil 30/06/20122.8Nil305.1GLRP - Reward Shares (1)25/09/200951.30 Nil 30/06/2013n/an/an/an/aGLRP - Reward Shares (2)25/09/200937.24 Nil 30/06/20133.8Nil305.4AssumptionsAward typeGrantDateFair Value ($)Performance Period EndExercise Price ($)Expected Life(years)Expected Dividend Yield(%)Risk free rate (%)Expected Volatility (%)NameContract Type (1)NoticeSeverance (2)Managing Director & CEOIan NarevPermanent12 monthsn/aGroup ExecutivesSimon BlairPermanent6 months6 monthsDavid CohenPermanent6 months6 monthsDavid CraigPermanent6 months6 monthsMichael HartePermanent6 months6 monthsMelanie LaingPermanent6 months6 monthsRoss McEwanPermanent6 months6 monthsGrahame PetersenPermanent6 months6 monthsIan SainesPermanent6 months6 monthsAnnabel SpringPermanent6 months6 monthsAlden ToevsPermanent6 monthsn/a 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report – Remuneration Report 

Glossary of Key Terms 

To assist readers, key terms and abbreviations used in the remuneration report are set out below. 

Term 

Definition 

Base Remuneration 

Cash and non-cash remuneration paid regularly with no performance conditions.  

Board 

Executives 

The Board of Directors of the Group. 

The CEO and Group Executives are collectively referenced as „Executives.‟ 

Fixed Remuneration 

Consists of Base Remuneration plus employer contributions to superannuation.  

Group 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia and its subsidiaries. 

Group Executive 

Key Management Personnel who are also members of the Group‟s Executive Committee. 

Group Leadership Reward  

The Group‟s long term incentive plan from 1 July 2009 for the CEO and Group Executives.  

Plan (GLRP) 

Key Management Personnel 
(KMP) 

Long Term Incentive (LTI) 

Persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of an entity, 
directly or indirectly, including any Director (whether executive or otherwise) of that entity. 

A remuneration arrangement which grants benefits to participating executives that may vest if, and to the 
extent that, performance hurdles are met over a period of three or more years. The Group‟s long term 
incentive plans include the GLRP, and the closed GLSP. 

NPAT 

Net profit after tax. 

Performance Rights 

Rights to acquire a Commonwealth Bank of Australia ordinary share with no payment by the recipient if 
relevant performance hurdles are met. 

PACC 

Profit after capital charge. 

Remuneration Mix 

The relative weighting of each component of remuneration (Fixed Remuneration, STI and LTI).  

Remuneration Received  

Represents  all  forms  of  consideration  paid  by  the  Group  or  on  behalf  of  the  Group  during  the  current 
performance year ending 30 June 2012, in exchange for services previously rendered to the Group. 

Reward Shares 

Reward Rights 

Salary Sacrifice 

Shares  in  CBA  granted  under  the  GLRP  during  the  2010  financial  year  and  subject  to  performance 
hurdles. 

Rights to ordinary shares in CBA granted under the GLRP during the 2011 and 2012 financial years and 
subject to performance hurdles. 

An  arrangement  where  an  employee  agrees  to  forego  part  of  his  or  her  cash  component  of  Base 
Remuneration in return for non-cash benefits of a similar value. 

Short Term Incentive (STI) 

Remuneration  paid  with  direct  reference  to  the  Group‟s  and  the  individual‟s  performance  over  one 
financial year. 

Statutory Remuneration 

All forms of consideration paid, payable or provided by the Group, or on behalf of the Group, in exchange 
for services rendered to the Group. In reading this report, the term “remuneration” means the same as the 
term  “compensation”  for  the  purposes  of  the  Corporations  Act  2001  and  the  accounting  standard 
AASB124. 

Total Shareholder Return  

(TSR) 

TSR  measures  a  company‟s  share  price  movement,  dividend  yield  and  any  return  of  capital  over  a 
specific period. 

88 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
Company Secretaries 

Auditor Independence 

Directors’ Report 

The  details  of  the  Bank‟s  Company  Secretaries,  including their 
experience and qualifications are set out below. 

John  Hatton  has  been  Company  Secretary  of 
the 
Commonwealth  Bank  of  Australia  since  1994.  From  1985  until 
1994, he was a solicitor with the Bank‟s Legal Department. 

He has a Bachelor of Laws degree from Sydney University and 
was admitted as a solicitor in New South Wales. He is a Fellow 
of  Chartered  Secretaries  Australia  and  a  Member  of  the 
Australian Institute of Company Directors. 

Carla Collingwood was appointed a Company Secretary to the 
Bank in July 2005.  

From 1994 until 2005, she was a solicitor with the Bank‟s Legal 
Department,  before  being  appointed  to  the  position  of  General 
Manager,  Secretariat.  She  holds  a  Bachelor  of  Laws  degree 
(Hons.) and a Graduate Diploma in Company Secretary Practice 
from Chartered Secretaries Australia. She  is a Graduate of the 
Australian Institute of Company Directors. 

Non-Audit Services 

Amounts paid or payable to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) for 
audit and non-audit services provided during the year, as set out 
in Note 33 to the Financial Statements are as follows: 

Project assurance services 
Taxation services 
Controls review and related work 
Other 
Total non-audit services (1) 
Total audit and audit related services 

2012 
$’000 
1,688 
2,877 
737 
215 

5,517 
22,854 

(1) An additional amount of $819,648 was  paid to PwC for non audit services 

provided to entities not consolidated into the Financial Statements. 

Auditor’s Declaration of Independence 

We  have  obtained  an  independence  declaration  from  our 
external auditor as presented on the following page.  

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Directors. 

The Bank has in place an Independent Auditor Services Policy, 
details  of  which  are  set  out  in  the  Corporate  Governance 
section  of  this  Annual  Report,  to  assist  in  ensuring  the 
independence of the Bank‟s external auditor.  

The Audit Committee has considered the provision, during the 
year, of non-audit services by PwC and has concluded that the 
provision  of  those  services  did  not  compromise  the  auditor 
independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.  

The Audit Committee advised the Board accordingly and, after 
considering  the  Committee‟s  advice,  the  Board  of  Directors 
agreed  that it  was satisfied  that the  provision  of  the  non-audit 
services  by  PwC  during  the  year  was  compatible  with  the 
the 
general  standard  of 
Corporations Act 2001.  

independence 

imposed  by 

The  Directors  are  satisfied  that  the  provision  of  the  non-audit 
services  during  the  year  did  not  compromise  the  auditor 
independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001. The 
reasons for this are as follows: 

 

 

The operation of the Independent Auditor Services Policy 
during the year to restrict the nature of non-audit services 
engagements,  to  prohibit  certain  services  and  to  require 
Audit  Committee  pre-approval  for  all  such  engagements; 
and  
The  relative  quantum  of  fees  paid  for  non-audit  services 
compared  to  the  quantum  for  audit  and  audit  related 
services. 

The  above  Directors‟  statements  are  in  accordance  with  the 
advice received from the Audit Committee.  

Incorporation of Additional Material 

This report incorporates the Chairman‟s Statement (pages 2 to 
3),  Highlights  (pages  6  to  9),  Analysis  sections  for  Retail 
Banking  Services  (pages  18  to  19),  Business  and  Private 
Banking  (pages  20  to  21),  Institutional  Banking  and  Markets 
(pages 22 to 23), Wealth Management (pages 24 to 27), New 
Zealand  (pages  28  to  30),  Bankwest  (pages  32  to  33),  Other 
Divisions  (pages  34  to  35)  and  Shareholding  Information 
(pages 221 to 224) sections of this Annual report. 

D J Turner 

Chairman 

15 August 2012 

I M Narev 

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer 

15 August 2012 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

89 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Auditor’s Independence Declaration 

As lead auditor for the audit of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia for the year ended 30 June 2012, I declare that to 
the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been: 

(a) 

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

(b) 

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

This declaration is in respect of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and the entities it controlled during the period. 

Rahoul Chowdry 

Partner 

PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Sydney 

15 August 2012 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
Darling Park Tower 2, 201 Sussex Street, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY NSW 1171  
DX 77 Sydney, Australia 
T +61 2 8266 0000, F +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

90 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

91 

 
 
 
Five Year Financial Summary 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparatives have been restated for the reallocation of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs from Other 

banking income into Net interest income. 

(2) Includes investment experience. 

(3) Due to the change in expectations on the size and impact of defined benefit superannuation plan (income)/expense, from 1 July 2009 this amount has been included 

as part of total expenses (“cash basis”) and is recorded in the Other segment. 

(4) Comparatives have been restated for the reallocation of Bank Acceptances of customers and securitised home loans to Interest earning assets. 

(5) Comparatives have been restated for the reallocation of Bank Acceptances and securitised debt issues to interest bearing liabilities. 

92 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

20122011201020092008$M$M$M$M$MNet interest income (1)13,15712,64512,00810,1847,872Other operating income (1) (2)6,9937,0147,0516,6346,469Total operating income20,15019,65919,05916,81814,341Operating expenses(9,196)(8,891)(8,601)(7,765)(7,021)Impairment expense(1,089)(1,280)(2,075)(3,048)(930)Operating profit before goodwill and income tax expense9,8659,4888,3836,0056,390Corporate tax expense(2,736)(2,637)(2,266)(1,560)(1,626)Non-controlling interests(16)(16)(16)(30)(31)Net profit after tax ("cash basis")7,1136,8356,1014,4154,733Defined benefit superannuation plan (expense)/income (3)---(10)9Treasury shares valuation adjustment(15)(22)(44)(28)60Hedging and IFRS volatility124(265)17(245)(42)Visa Initial Public Offering gain after tax----295Investment and restructuring----(264)One-off expenses---(23)-Tax on NZ Structured finance transactions--(171)--Loss on disposal of controlled entities/investments-(7)(23)--Bankwest non cash items(89)(147)(216)614-Count Financial acquisition costs(43)----Net profit after income tax attributable to Equity holders of the Bank7,0906,3945,6644,7234,791Contributions to profit (after tax)Retail Banking Services2,9342,8542,4612,1071,911Business and Private Banking1,0671,030898736721Institutional Banking and Markets1,0601,0041,173166771Wealth Management492581592514789New Zealand506469387438n/a  Bankwest524463(45)113n/a  International Financial Servicesn/a  n/a  n/a  n/a  555Other (3)441353457537(1)Net profit after tax ("underlying basis")7,0246,7545,9234,6114,746Investment experience after tax8981178(196)(13)Net profit after tax ("cash basis")7,1136,8356,1014,4154,733Defined benefit superannuation plan (expense)/income (3)---(10)9Treasury shares valuation adjustment(15)(22)(44)(28)60Hedging and IFRS volatility124(265)17(245)(42)Visa Initial Public Offering gain after tax----295Investment and restructuring----(264)One-off expenses---(23)-Tax on NZ Structured finance transactions--(171)--Loss on disposal of controlled entities/investments-(7)(23)--Bankwest non cash items(89)(147)(216)614-Count Financial acquisition costs(43)----Net profit after tax ("statutory basis")7,0906,3945,6644,7234,791Balance SheetLoans, bills discounted and other receivables525,682500,057493,459466,631361,282Total assets718,229667,899646,330620,372487,572Deposits and other public borrowings437,655401,147374,663368,721263,706Total liabilities676,657630,612610,760588,930461,435Shareholders' equity41,57237,28735,57031,44226,137Net tangible assets29,82126,21724,68820,73816,422Risk weighted assets302,787281,711290,821288,836205,501Average interest earning assets (4)629,685597,406577,261510,510418,829Average interest bearing liabilities (5)590,654559,095543,824483,283395,989Assets (on Balance Sheet) - Australia621,355581,695561,618528,354410,225Assets (on Balance Sheet) - New Zealand55,49954,99356,94859,60654,312Assets (on Balance Sheet) - Other41,37531,21127,76432,41223,035 
 
  
Five Year Financial Summary 

(1) The productivity metrics have been calculated on a “cash basis”. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

93 

20122011201020092008Shareholder summaryDividends per share - fully franked (cents)334320290228266Dividends cover - statutory (times)1.31.31.31.31.3Dividends cover - cash (times)1.31.41.41.31.3Earnings per share (cents)BasicStatutory448.9411.2367.9328.5363.0Cash basis449.4438.7395.5305.6356.9Fully dilutedStatutory432.9395.1354.2313.4348.7Cash basis433.4420.6379.8292.4343.1Dividend payout ratio (%)Statutory75.278.379.773.174.1Cash basis75.073.273.978.275.0Net tangible assets per share ($)18.716.815.913.712.4Weighted average number of shares (statutory basic) (M)1,5701,5451,5271,4201,307Weighted average number of shares (statutory fully diluted) (M)1,6741,6681,6401,5481,424Weighted average number of shares (cash basic) (M)1,5731,5481,5311,4261,313Weighted average number of shares (cash fully diluted) (M)1,6771,6711,6441,5541,430Number of shareholders792,906792,765784,382776,283741,072Share prices for the year ($)Trading high53.8055.7760.0046.6962.16Trading low42.3047.0536.2024.0337.02End (closing price)53.1052.3048.6439.0040.17Performance ratios (%)Return on average Shareholders' equityStatutory18.718.417.516.819.8Cash basis18.619.518.715.820.4Return on average total assetsStatutory1.01.00.90.91.0Cash basis1.01.01.00.81.0Capital adequacy - Tier One10.0110.019.158.078.17Capital adequacy - Tier Two0.971.692.342.353.41Capital adequacy - Total10.9811.7011.4910.4211.58Net interest margin2.092.122.081.991.88Other information (numbers)Full-time equivalent employees44,84446,06045,02544,21839,621Branches/services centres (Australia)1,1671,1601,1471,1421,009Agencies (Australia)3,8183,7953,8843,8593,814ATM's (proprietary)4,2134,1734,1494,0753,301EFTPOS terminals175,436170,855165,621167,025187,377Productivity (1)Total income per full-time (equivalent) employee ($)446,013424,186418,057386,381362,384Employee expense/Total income (%)24.724.524.123.325.5Total operating expenses/Total income (%)46.045.545.745.448.9 
 
 
 
 
Financial Statements 

Income Statements 
Statements of Comprehensive Income 

Balance Sheets 

Statements of Changes in Equity 

Statements of Cash Flows 

Note 1 

Note 2 

Note 3 

Note 4 

Note 5 

Note 6 

Note 7 

Note 8 

Note 9 

Note 10 

Note 11 

Note 12 

Note 13 

Note 14 

Note 15 

Note 16 

Note 17 

Note 18 

Note 19 

Note 20 

Note 21 

Note 22 

Note 23 

Note 24 

Note 25 

Note 26 

Note 27 

Note 28 

Note 29 

Note 30 

Note 31 

Note 32 

Note 33 

Note 34 

Note 35 

Note 36 

Note 37 

Note 38 

Note 39 

Note 40 

Note 41 

Note 42 

Note 43 

Note 44 

Note 45 

Note 46 

Note 47 

Note 48 

Note 49 

Accounting Policies 

Profit 

Income from Ordinary Activities 

Average Balances and Related Interest 

Income Tax 

Dividends 

Earnings per Share 

Cash and Liquid Assets 

Receivables due from Other Financial Institutions 

Assets at Fair Value through Income Statement 

Derivative Financial Instruments 

Available-for-Sale Investments 

Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables 

Provisions for Impairment 

Property, Plant and Equipment 

Intangible Assets 

Other Assets 

Assets Held for Sale 

Deposits and Other Public Borrowings 

Liabilities at Fair Value through Income Statement 

Tax Liabilities 

Other Provisions 

Debt Issues 

Bills Payable and Other Liabilities 

Loan Capital 

Shareholders‟ Equity 

Share Capital 

Share Based Payments 

Non-Controlling Interests 

Capital Adequacy 

Financial Reporting by Segments 

Life Insurance Business 

Remuneration of Auditors 

Lease Commitments 

Contingent Liabilities, Contingent Assets and Commitments 

Fiduciary Activities 

Financial Risk Management 

Credit Risk 

Market Risk 

Liquidity and Funding Risk 

Retirement Benefit Obligations 

Investments in Associated Entities and Joint Ventures 

Key Management Personnel 

Related Party Disclosures 

Notes to the Statements of Cash Flows 

Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments 

Securitisation and Covered Bonds 

Controlled Entities 

Subsequent Events 

94 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

95 
96 

97 

98 

100 

102 

116 

118 

119 

125 

128 

129 

129 

129 

130 

131 

136 

137 

140 

142 

144 

146 

146 

146 

147 

148 

148 

149 

151 

152 

159 

161 

162 

167 

168 

169 

172 

174 

174 

175 

177 

178 

178 

195 

198 

201 

204 

205 

208 

208 

210 

214 

215 

217 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income Statements 

For the year ended 30 June 2012 

Financial Statements 

The above Income Statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

95 

Group Bank 20122011201020122011Note $M$M$M$M$MInterest income 238,25837,47732,46434,76133,153Interest expense 2(25,136)(24,883)(20,402)(24,510)(23,268)Net interest income13,12212,59412,06210,2519,885Other banking income 4,0893,6434,0685,4665,514Net banking operating income17,21116,23716,13015,71715,399Funds management income1,9591,9961,906--Investment revenue226854975--Claims and policyholder liability expense(245)(808)(953)--Net funds management operating income21,9402,0421,928--Premiums from insurance contracts2,1141,8841,794--Investment revenue547547687--Claims and policyholder liability expense frominsurance contracts(1,428)(1,313)(1,251)--Net insurance operating income21,2331,1181,230--Total net operating income before impairment and operating expenses220,38419,39719,28815,71715,399Impairment expense2,14(1,089)(1,280)(2,379)(988)(1,080)Operating expenses2(9,331)(9,060)(8,716)(6,338)(6,113)Net profit before income tax29,9649,0578,1938,3918,206Corporate tax expense5(2,736)(2,481)(2,383)(1,930)(1,726)Policyholder tax expense5(122)(166)(130)--Net profit after income tax7,1066,4105,6806,4616,480Non-controlling interests(16)(16)(16)--Net profit attributable to Equity holders of the Bank7,0906,3945,6646,4616,480Group 201220112010Note Earnings per share:    Basic7448. 9411. 2367. 9    Fully diluted7432. 9395. 1354. 2Cents per share  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Statements 

Statements of Comprehensive Income 

For the year ended 30 June 2012 

The above Statements of Comprehensive Income should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

96 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

20122011201020122011$M$M$M$M$MProfit from ordinary activities after income tax for the financial year7,1066,4105,6806,4616,480Other comprehensive income/(expense):Actuarial gains and losses from defined benefit superannuation plans net of tax(223)(89)(64)(223)(89)Gains and losses on cash flow hedging instruments:Recognised in equity730(754)(239)847(748)Transferred to Income Statement758769828542650Gains and losses on available-for-sale investments:Recognised in equity(349)124327(315)264Transferred to Income Statement on disposal(81)(24)(24)(86)(24)Transferred to Income Statement on impairment--2--Revaluation of properties3265059Foreign currency translation reserve202(546)(19)80(204)Income tax on items transferred directly to/from equity:Foreign currency translation reserve(12)16(1)(10)10Available-for-sale investments revaluation reserve122(28)(77)119(73)Revaluation of properties(5)-(9)--Cash flow hedge reserve(442)-(193)(415)23Other comprehensive income/(expense) net of income tax 732(526)581544(182)Total comprehensive income for the financial year7,8385,8846,2617,0056,298Total comprehensive income for the financial year is attributable to:Equity holders of the Bank7,8225,8686,2457,0056,298Non-controlling interests161616--Total comprehensive income for the financial year7,8385,8846,2617,0056,298Group Bank  
 
 
  
 
 
Balance Sheets 

As at 30 June 2012 

Financial Statements 

The above Balance Sheets should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

97 

Group Bank 2012201120122011Note $M $M $M $M AssetsCash and liquid assets819,66613,24117,95210,979Receivables due from other financial institutions910,88610,39310,48210,123Assets at fair value through Income Statement:10Trading13,81620,46912,07117,765Insurance14,52514,998--Other980824980300Derivative assets1138,93730,31739,06130,731Available-for-sale investments1260,82745,171120,04775,699Loans, bills discounted and other receivables13525,682500,057407,122387,888Bank acceptances of customers9,71710,7349,71510,734Shares in and loans to controlled entities44--71,52647,357Property, plant and equipment152,5032,3661,3761,526Investment in associates421,8981,7121,4011,343Intangible assets1610,2819,6034,1233,726Deferred tax assets59801,3008991,112Other assets177,5176,6815,8724,917718,215667,866702,627604,200Assets held for sale1814331433Total assets718,229667,899702,641604,233LiabilitiesDeposits and other public borrowings19437,655401,147362,813332,964Payables due to other financial institutions22,12615,89921,45715,686Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement206,55510,4913,1814,700Derivative liabilities1139,22133,97639,22632,817Bank acceptances9,71710,7349,71510,734Due to controlled entities--101,05352,353Current tax liabilities211,5371,2221,5231,133Deferred tax liabilities21338301--Other provisions221,2241,277902957Insurance policy liabilities3212,99413,652--Debt issues23124,712118,652102,31294,385Managed funds units on issue9951,048--Bills payable and other liabilities249,56110,6529,3779,348666,635619,051651,559555,077Loan capital2510,02211,56110,22311,808Total liabilities676,657630,612661,782566,885Net assets41,57237,28740,85937,348Shareholders' EquityShare capital:Ordinary share capital2725,17523,60225,49823,896Other equity instruments279399391,8951,895Reserves261,5713922,7321,964Retained profits2613,35611,82610,7349,593Shareholders' equity attributable to Equity holders of the Bank41,04136,75940,85937,348Non-controlling interests29531528--Total Shareholders' equity41,57237,28740,85937,348 
 
 
 
 
Financial Statements 

Statements of Changes in Equity 

For the year ended 30 June 2012 

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

98 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

GroupShareholders'equityattributableOrdinaryOtherto EquityNon-Total shareequityRetainedholderscontrollingShareholders'capitalinstrumentsReservesprofitsof the Bank interests  equity$M$M$M$M$M$M$MAs at 30 June 201023,0819391,0899,93835,04752335,570Total comprehensive income for the financial year--(437)6,3055,868165,884Transactions with equity holders in their capacity as equity holders:Dividends paid---(4,707)(4,707)-(4,707)Dividend reinvestment plan (net of issue costs)511---511-511Other equity movements:Share based payments6-10-16-16Purchase of treasury shares(69)---(69)-(69)Sale and vesting of treasury shares73---73-73Other changes--(270)29020(11)9As at 30 June 201123,60293939211,82636,75952837,287Total comprehensive income for the financial year--9556,8677,822167,838Transactions with equity holders in their capacity as equity holders:Dividends paid---(5,126)(5,126)-(5,126)Dividend reinvestment plan (net of issue costs)1,363---1,363-1,363Other equity movements:Share based payments2-1-3-3Issue of shares (net of issue costs)237---237-237Purchase of treasury shares(96)---(96)-(96)Sale and vesting of treasury shares67---67-67Other changes--223(211)12(13)(1)As at 30 June 201225,1759391,57113,35641,04153141,572 
 
 
 
 
 
Statements of Changes in Equity (continued) 

For the year ended 30 June 2012 

Financial Statements 

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

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

99 

Bank Shareholders' equity attributable Ordinary Other to Equity  share equity Retained holders capital instruments Reserves profits of the Bank $M $M $M $M $M As at 30 June 201023,3791,8952,0477,88035,201Total comprehensive income for the financial year--(93)6,3916,298Transactions with equity holders in their capacity as equity holders:Dividends paid---(4,678)(4,678)Dividend reinvestment plan (net of issue costs)511---511Other equity movements:Share based payments6-10-16Other changes-----As at 30 June 201123,8961,8951,9649,59337,348Total comprehensive income for the financial year--7676,2387,005Transactions with equity holders in their capacity as equity holders:Dividends paid---(5,096)(5,096)Dividend reinvestment plan (net of issue costs)1,363---1,363Other equity movements:Share based payments2-1-3Issue of shares (net of issue costs)237---237Other changes---(1)(1)As at 30 June 201225,4981,8952,73210,73440,859Group 201220112010NoteDividends per share attributable to shareholders of the Bank:Ordinary shares6334320290Trust preferred securities5,9896,0206,715Cents per share 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Statements 

Statements of Cash Flows (1) 
For the year ended 30 June 2012 

  (1) It should be noted that the Group does not use these accounting Statements of Cash Flows in the internal management of its liquidity positions. 
(2) To reflect market practice, comparatives have been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs from 

Other Banking Income into Net interest income. 

(3) Represents gross premiums and policy payments before splitting between policyholders and shareholders. 
(4) Amounts received from and paid to controlled entities are presented in line with how they are managed and settled. 

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

100 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Group Bank 20122011201020122011Note $M $M $M $M $M Cash flows from operating activitiesInterest received (2)38,33737,13431,91234,44332,750Interest paid (2)(25,456)(24,464)(19,496)(24,750)(22,919)Other operating income received (2)5,1335,2405,1743,2323,073Expenses paid(8,537)(8,474)(7,766)(5,847)(5,837)Income taxes paid(2,372)(2,370)(2,022)(1,525)(2,087)Net cash inflows/(outflows) from assets at fair value through Income Statement (excluding life insurance)2,3284,452(2,466)3,0591,531Net cash inflows/(outflows) from liabilities at fair value through Income Statement:Life insurance:Investment income791552335--Premiums received (3)2,1382,2002,094--Policy payments (3)(3,032)(3,374)(3,901)--Other liabilities at fair value through Income Statement(3,603)(4,317)(1,200)(1,424)13Cash flows from operating activities beforechanges in operating assets and liabilities5,7276,5792,6647,1886,524Changes in operating assets and liabilities arising from cash flow movementsMovement in available-for-sale investments:Purchases(76,408)(62,733)(60,021)(101,037)(49,182)Proceeds from sale12,3754,4404,10712,3263,919Proceeds at or close to maturity50,49045,41744,20146,41734,718Net change in deposits with regulatory authorities(15)(72)-1(14)Net increase in loans, bills discounted and other receivables(25,754)(11,489)(28,999)(19,804)(11,842)Net decrease in receivables due from otherfinancial institutions not at call3,3851,1152,7253,4491,134Net (increase)/decrease in securities purchased underagreements to resell(498)(2,834)776(1,060)(2,194)Life insurance business:Purchase of insurance assets at fair value through Income Statement(2,189)(4,101)(5,660)--Proceeds from sale/maturity of insurance assets at fair value through Income Statement3,2915,9148,384--Net (increase)/decrease in other assets(61)201254(79)41Net increase in deposits and other public borrowings35,75031,8938,85229,22729,066Net (decrease)/increase in payables due to other financial institutions not at call(10,315)5,112(1,157)(10,570)4,532Net increase/(decrease) in securities sold underagreements to repurchase1,183(1,698)(2,814)1,458(1,963)Net increase/(decrease) in other liabilities155(575)(240)982(618)Changes in operating assets and liabilities arising from cash flow movements(8,611)10,590(29,592)(38,690)7,597Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities45(a)   (2,884)17,169(26,928)(31,502)14,121Cash flows from investing activitiesPayments for acquisition of controlled entities45(e)   (125)----Net proceeds from disposal of controlled entities45(c)   -19(11)--Net proceeds from disposal of entities and businesses (net of cash disposals)2115(22)--Dividends received5226711,5632,210Net amounts received from controlled entities (4)---24,767394Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment252770157Purchases of property, plant and equipment(584)(443)(293)(218)(277)Payments for acquistions of investments in associates/joint ventures(85)(164)(414)(53)(148)Purchase of intangible assets(585)(533)(454)(547)(487)Sale of assets held for sale -12542512Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities(1,281)(1,041)(511)25,5321,711 
 
 
 
 
Statements of Cash Flows (1) (continued)  

For the year ended 30 June 2012 

Financial Statements 

(1) It should be noted that the Group does not use these accounting Statements of Cash Flows in the internal management of its liquidity positions. 

(2) Proceeds from debt issues are presented on a net basis, in line with how the Group manages its funding activities. 

(3) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

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

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

101 

GroupBank20122011201020122011Note  $M$M$M$M$MCash flows from financing activitiesProceeds from issue of shares (net of issue costs)26225Dividends paid (excluding Dividend Reinvestment Plan)(3,748)(4,188)(2,149)(3,718)(4,157)Net proceeds from issuance of debt securities (2)3,512(8,321)30,1285,535(8,092)Purchase of treasury shares(96)(69)(138)--Sale of treasury shares1973118--Issue of loan capital--3,707--Redemption of loan capital(1,775)(1,064)(1,760)(1,771)(911)Other (3)267(120)232482(252)Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities(1,819)(13,683)30,140530(13,407)Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents(5,984)2,4452,701(5,440)2,425Effect of foreign exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents (3)13156630110420Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 7,9284,9172,1865,8913,046Cash and cash equivalents at end of year45(b)   2,0757,9284,9175615,891 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies  

The  Financial  Statements  of  the  Commonwealth  Bank  of 
Australia  (the  Bank)  and  the  Bank  and  its  subsidiaries  (the 
Group)  for  the  year  ended  30  June  2012,  were  approved  and 
authorised  for  issue  by  the  Board  of  Directors  on  15  August 
2012. 

The  Bank  is  incorporated  and  domiciled  in  Australia.  It  is  a 
company  limited  by  shares  that  are  publicly  traded  on  the 
Australian  Securities  Exchange.  The  address  of  its  registered 
office  is  Ground  Floor,  Tower  1,  201  Sussex  Street,  Sydney, 
NSW 2000, Australia. 

The  Group  is  one  of  Australia‟s  leading  providers  of integrated 
financial  services,  including  retail,  business  and  institutional 
banking,  superannuation,  life  insurance,  general  insurance, 
funds  management,  broking  services  and  finance  company 
activities. 

(a) Bases of Accounting 

This  General  Purpose  Financial  Report  for  the  year  ended  30 
June  2012  has  been  prepared  in  accordance  with  Australian 
Accounting Standards (the standards), which include Australian 
Interpretations  by  virtue  of  AASB  1048  „Interpretation  and 
the 
Application  of  Standards‟,  and 
Corporations Act 2001. 

the  requirements  of 

The  basis  of  the  standards  is  the  International  Financial 
Reporting  Standards  (IFRS)  as  issued  by  the  International 
Accounting  Standards  Board  (IASB).  As  a  result  of  complying 
with the standards, the Group Financial Statements comply with 
IFRS, and interpretations as issued by the IFRS Interpretations 
Committee (IFRIC). 

(b) Basis of Preparation 

The  principal  accounting  policies  adopted  in  the  preparation  of 
this financial report and that of the previous financial year are set 
out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all 
the periods presented, unless otherwise stated. The assets and 
liabilities are presented in order of liquidity on the Balance Sheet. 

Historical Cost Convention 

This financial report has been prepared under the historical cost 
convention,  as  modified  by  the  revaluation  of  investment 
securities  available  for  sale  and  certain  other  assets  and 
liabilities (including derivative instruments) at fair value. 

Use of Estimates and Assumptions 

The preparation of the financial report 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 estimates and associated assumptions 
are  based  on  historical  experience  and  other  factors  that  are 
considered to  be  relevant. Actual  results may  differ from these 
estimates.  The  estimates  and  underlying  assumptions  are 
reviewed on an ongoing basis. Areas involving a higher degree 
of  judgement  or  complexity,  or  areas  where  assumptions  and 
estimates are significant are discussed in Note 1(jj).  

Comparatives 

Where necessary, comparative information has been restated to 
conform  with  changes  in  presentation  in  the  current  year.  No 
significant changes have been made and all changes have been 
footnoted throughout the financial statements. 

Rounding of Amounts 

The Bank is of a kind referred to in ASIC Class Order 98/0100 
(as  amended),  relating  to  the  rounding  off  of  amounts  in  the 

102 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Financial  Report.  Amounts  in  the  Financial  Report  have  been 
rounded off in accordance with that Class Order to the nearest 
million dollars unless otherwise indicated. 

The Financial Report is presented in Australian dollars. 

Segment Reporting 

Operating  segments  are  reported  based  on  the  Group‟s 
organisational and management structures. Senior management 
review  the  Group‟s  internal  reporting  based  around  these 
segments, 
in  order  to  assess  performance  and  allocate 
resources.  

All transactions  between segments  are conducted on  an  arm‟s 
length  basis,  with  inter-segment  revenue  and  costs  being 
eliminated in “Other”.  

Changes in Accounting Policies 

The Group has continued to apply the accounting policies used 
for the 2011 Annual Report and has adopted the following 
amendments to the standards, which are of a technical or 
clarifying nature and do not have a material impact on the Bank 
or the Group: 

 

 

 

 

 

to  Australian 
the  Annual 

„Further  Amendments 
from 

AASB 124 „Related Party Disclosures‟ and AASB 2009-12 
„Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards‟; 
AASB  2010-4 
Accounting  Standards  arising 
Improvements Project‟; 
AASB  2010-5  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
Standards‟; 
AASB  2010-6  Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
Standards – Disclosures on Transfers of Financial Assets; 
and 
AASB  2010-8  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
Standards – Deferred Tax: Recovery of Underlying Assets‟. 

Future Accounting Developments 

The  following  amendments  to  existing  standards  have  been 
published  and  are mandatory  for  accounting  periods  beginning 
on or after 1 January 2012 or later periods, but have not been 
adopted. They are not expected to result in significant changes 
to the Group‟s accounting policies.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

from 

arising 

Reduced 

AASB  2010-2  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
Disclosure 
Standards 
Requirements‟; 
AASB  2011-2  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
Standards  arising  from  the  Trans-Tasman  Convergence 
Project – Reduced Disclosure Requirements‟; 
AASB  2011-4  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
Standards 
Individual  Key  Management 
to  Remove 
Personnel Disclosure Requirements‟; 
AASB  2011-7  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
the  Consolidation  and  Joint 
from 
Standards  arising 
Arrangements Standards‟; 
AASB  2011-8  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
Standards arising from AASB 13‟; 
AASB  2011-10  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
Standards arising from AASB 119 (September 2011)‟; 
AASB  2011-11  „Amendments  to  AASB  119  (September 
2011) arising from Reduced Disclosure Requirements‟; 
AASB  2012-1  „Amendments  to  Australian  Accounting 
-  Reduced 
-  Fair  Value  Measurement 
Standards 
Disclosure Requirements‟; 
AASB 11 „Joint Arrangements‟; and  
AASB 13 „Fair Value Measurement‟. 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

AASB  9  „Financial  Instruments‟  contains  new  requirements  for 
classification,  measurement  and  de-recognition  of  financial 
assets  and liabilities,  replacing the  corresponding requirements 
Instruments:  Recognition  and 
in  AASB  139 
Measurement‟.  It  will  introduce  significant  changes  in  the  way 
that the Group accounts for financial instruments. 

„Financial 

Adoption  of  the  standard  is  not  mandatory  until  accounting 
periods  beginning  on  or  after  1  January  2015,  however  early 
adoption is permitted. The key changes include: 

 

 

Financial assets: financial assets will be classified as either 
amortised  cost  or  fair  value  through  Income  Statement, 
except  for  certain  non-trading  equity  investments  which 
through  Other 
may  be  classified  as 
Comprehensive Income (OCI); and 
Financial liabilities: gains and losses on own credit arising 
from  financial  liabilities  designated  at  fair  value  through 
profit  or loss  will  be  excluded from  the Income Statement 
and instead taken to OCI. 

fair  value 

By June 2013, it is expected that  the IASB will release IFRS 9 
„Financial  Instruments‟  that  will  include  new  requirements  for 
impairment  and  hedge  accounting.  It  will  introduce  significant 
changes  in  the  way  that  the  Group  accounts  for  financial 
instruments. The key changes proposed relate to: 

 

 

Impairment: both expected losses and incurred losses will 
be  reflected  in  impairment  allowances  for  loans  and 
advances; and 
Hedge accounting: hedge accounting will be more closely 
aligned with financial risk management. 

AASB  132  „Financial  Instruments:  Presentation‟,  has  been 
amended  to  clarify  the  conditions  for  offsetting  financial  assets 
and  liabilities  in  the  Balance  Sheet.  These  amendments 
(effective  from  1  January  2013)  will  not  impact  the  Group‟s 
current accounting practice for offsetting arrangements. 

AASB 10 „Consolidated Financial Statements‟ introduces control 
as the single basis for consolidation for all entities, regardless of 
the  nature  of  the  investee.  AASB  10  replaces  those  parts  of 
AASB  127  „Consolidated  and  Separate  Financial  Statements‟ 
that  address  when  and  how  an  investor  should  prepare 
replaces  SIC-12 
consolidated 
„Consolidation – Special Purpose Entities‟ in its entirety. 

financial  statements  and 

This  approach  comprises  a  series  of  indicators  of  control, 
requiring  an  analysis  of  all  facts  and  circumstances  and  the 
application of judgement in making the control assessment. 

Concurrent with the issue of AASB 10, the following standards 
were also issued: 

 
 
 

 

AASB 11 „Joint Arrangements‟; 
AASB 12 „Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities‟; 
AASB  127  „Separate  Financial  Statements‟,  amended  for 
the issuance of AASB 10; and 

AASB  128  „Investments  in  Associates‟,  amended  for 
conforming  changes  based  on  the  issuance  of  AASB  10 
and AASB 11. 

Each of these standards has an effective date for annual periods 
beginning  on  or  after  1  January  2013,  with  early  adoption 
permitted  so  long  as  each  of  the  standards  in  this  package  is 
also applied early. 

The key changes include: 

 

Using  control  as  the  single  basis  for  consolidation, 
irrespective  of  the  nature  of  the  investee,  eliminating  the 
risks and rewards approach included in SIC-12; 

 

 

The  definition  of  control  includes  three  elements:  power 
over an investee, exposure or rights to variable returns of  
the investee, and the ability to use power over the investee 
to affect the investor‟s returns; and 
An investor would reassess whether it controls an investee 
if there is a change in facts and circumstances. 

AASB  12  „Disclosure  of  Interests  in  Other  Entities‟  applies  to 
entities that have an interest in subsidiaries, joint arrangements, 
associates  or  unconsolidated  structured  entities.  It  serves  to 
integrate  the  disclosure  requirements  of  interests  in  other 
entities, currently  included  in several  standards,  and  also  adds 
additional  requirements  in  a  number  of  areas.  The  disclosure 
requirements are extensive and significant effort will be required 
to accumulate the necessary information. 

AASB  119  „Employee  Benefits‟  has  been  amended,  which  will 
result in changes to the recognition and measurement of defined 
benefit  pension  expense  and  termination  benefits,  and  to  the 
disclosures  for  all  employee  benefits.  These  changes  could 
affect  a  number  of  performance  indicators,  and  significantly 
increase the volume of disclosures. The key changes include: 

 

 

Annual  expense  for  a  funded  benefit  plan  will  include  net 
interest  expense  or  income,  calculated  by  applying  the 
discount  rate  to  the  net  defined  benefit  asset  or  liability. 
This will replace the finance charge and expected return on 
plan assets, and may increase the benefit expense; and  

Benefit  cost  will  be  split  between  (i)  the  cost  of  benefits 
accrued  in  the  current  period  (service  cost)  and  benefit 
changes (past-service cost, settlements and curtailments); 
and (ii) finance expense or income. 

The amendment is effective for periods beginning on or after 1 
January 2013, with early adoption being permitted. 

AASB  101  „Presentation  of  Financial  Statements‟  has  been 
amended.  The  amendment  changes  the  disclosure  of  items 
presented in OCI in the Statement of Comprehensive Income. 

The key changes include: 

 

Items  are  presented  separately,  in  two  groups  in  OCI, 
based on whether or not they may be recycled to profit or 
loss in the future; and 

  Where  OCI  items  have  been  presented  before  tax,  the 
amount  of  tax  related  to  the  two  groups  will  need  to  be 
shown. 

The amendment is effective for annual periods beginning on or 
after 1 July 2012, with early adoption permitted. 

In addition to the above, the IASB plans to issue new standards 
on Leases, Insurance Contracts and Revenue Recognition. The 
Group will consider the financial impacts of these new standards 
as they are finalised. 

(c) Principles of Consolidation 

Subsidiaries 

The consolidated Financial Report comprises the financial report 
of  the  Bank  and  its  subsidiaries.  Subsidiaries  are  all  those 
entities (including special purpose entities) over which the Bank 
has  the  power  to  govern  directly  or  indirectly  the  decision-
making  in  relation  to  financial  and  operating  policies,  so  as  to 
require those entities to conform with the Bank‟s objectives. The 
effects  of  all  transactions  between  entities  in  the  Group  are 
eliminated  in  full.  Non-controlling  interests  in  the  results  and 
equity of subsidiaries, where the parent owns less than 100 per 
cent  of  the  issued  capital,  are  shown  separately  in  the 
consolidated  Income  Statement  and  consolidated  Balance 
Sheet, respectively. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

103 

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

Where  control  of  an  entity  was  obtained  during  the  financial 
year, its results have been included in the consolidated Income 
Statement from the date on which control commenced. 

ongoing  services  (for  example,  maintaining  and  administering 
existing facilities) are recognised as income over the period the 
service is provided. 

Other Income 

Where control  of an  entity ceased during the financial  year, its 
results  are  included  for  that  part  of  the  financial  year  during 
which control existed. 

Trading income is recognised when earned based on changes 
in fair value of financial instruments and is recorded from trade 
date.  

Impairment of Subsidiaries 

Investments in subsidiaries are tested annually for impairment or 
more  frequently  if  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  investments‟ 
carrying  amount  exceeds  its  recoverable  amount  (which  is  the 
higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use). At each 
Balance  Sheet  date,  the  investments  in  subsidiaries  that  have 
been  impaired  are  reviewed  for  possible  reversal  of  the 
impairment. 

Interests in Associates and Joint Ventures Accounted for 
Using the Equity Method 

Associates and joint ventures are entities over which the Group 
has significant influence or joint control, but not control, and are 
accounted  for  under  the  equity  method.  The  equity  method  of 
accounting  is  applied  in  the  consolidated  Financial  Report  and 
involves  the  recognition  of  the  Group‟s  share  of  its  associates‟ 
and  joint  ventures‟  post-acquisition  profits  or  losses  in  the 
Income Statement, and its share of post acquisition movements 
in OCI. Associates and joint ventures are accounted for at cost 
less accumulated impairments at the Bank level. 

(d) Revenue Recognition 

Revenue  is  measured  at  the  fair  value  of  the  consideration 
received  or  receivable.  Revenue  is  recognised  for  each  major 
revenue stream as follows: 

Interest Income 

Interest income is brought to account using the effective interest 
method. The effective interest method calculates the amortised 
cost of a financial instrument and allocates the interest income 
or  interest  expense  over  the  relevant  period.  The  effective 
interest  rate  is  the  rate  that  discounts  estimated  future  cash 
payments  or  receipts  through  the  expected  life  of  the  financial 
instrument  or,  when  appropriate,  a  shorter  period,  to  the  net 
carrying  amount  of  the  financial  asset  or  liability.  Fees  and 
transaction  costs  associated  with  loans  are  capitalised  and 
included  in  the  effective  interest  rate  and  recognised  in  the 
Income  Statement,  over  the  expected  life  of  the  instrument. 
Interest  income  on  finance  leases  is  brought  to  account 
progressively  over  the  life  of  the  lease,  consistent  with  the 
outstanding investment balance. 

Fee and Commission Income 

Fee  and  commission  income  and  expense  that  are  integral  to 
the  effective  interest  rate  on  a  financial  asset  or  liability  are 
capitalised  and  included  in  the  effective  interest  rate  and 
recognised in the Income Statement over the expected life of the 
instrument. 

Commitment  fees  to  originate  a  loan,  which  is  unlikely  to  be 
drawn  down,  are  recognised  as  fee  income  as  the  service  is 
provided. 

Fees  and  commissions  that  relate  to  the  execution  of  a 
significant  act  (for  example,  advisory  or  arrangement  services, 
placement fees and underwriting fees) are recognised when the 
significant act has been completed. Fees charged for providing 

104 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

(e) Foreign Currency Translation 

Functional and Presentation Currency 

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

Foreign Currency Transactions  

Foreign  currency  transactions  are  translated  into  the  functional 
currency, using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the 
transactions. 

Monetary  assets  and  liabilities  resulting  from  foreign  currency 
transactions  are  subsequently  translated  at  the  spot  rate  at 
reporting date. 

Exchange  differences  arising  on  the  settlement  of  monetary 
items, or on translating monetary items at rates different to those 
at which they were initially recognised or included in a previous 
financial report, are recognised in the Income Statement in the 
period in which they arise. 

Translation  differences  on  non-monetary 
items,  such  as 
derivatives  measured  at  fair  value  through  Income  Statement, 
are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss on these items. 
Translation differences on non-monetary items measured at fair 
value through equity, such as equities classified as available-for-
sale financial assets, are recognised in equity through OCI.  

Foreign Operations 

The  results  and  financial position of  all Group  entities  (none  of 
which  has  the  currency  of  a  hyperinflationary  economy),  that 
the  Group‟s 
have  a 
the  Group‟s 
presentation  currency,  are 
presentation currency as follows: 

functional  currency  different 
translated 

from 
into 

 

 

 

Assets  and 
liabilities  of  each  foreign  operation  are 
translated at the rates of exchange at Balance Sheet date; 
Revenue  and  expenses  of  each  foreign  operation  are 
translated  at  the  average  exchange  rate  for  the  period, 
unless  this  average  is  not  a  reasonable  approximation  of 
the  rate  prevailing  on  transaction  date,  in  which  case 
revenue and expenses are translated at the exchange rate 
at transaction date; and 
All  resulting  exchange  differences  are  recognised  in  the 
foreign currency translation reserve. 

When a foreign operation is disposed of, exchange differences 
are  recognised  in  the Income Statement  as  part  of  the  gain  or 
loss on sale. 

(f) Cash and Liquid Assets 

Cash and liquid assets include cash at branches, cash at banks, 
nostro balances, money at short call with an original maturity of 
three  months  or  less  and  securities  held  under  reverse 
repurchase  agreements.  They  are  measured  at  face  value,  or 
the  gross  value  of 
is 
recognised in the Income Statement using the effective interest 
method.

the  outstanding  balance. 

Interest 

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

Recognition of Deferred Day One Profit or Loss 

For  the  purposes  of  the  Statements  of  Cash  Flows,  cash 
includes  cash,  money  at  short  call,  at  call  deposits  with  other 
financial institutions and settlement account balances with other 
banks. 

(g) Receivables Due from Other Financial Institutions 

Receivables  due  from  other  financial  institutions  include  loans, 
deposits  with  regulatory  authorities  and  settlement  account 
balances  due  from  other  banks.  They  are  measured  at 
amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. 

(h) Financial Instruments 

Financial Assets 

The  accounting  policy  for  each  class  of  financial  instrument  is 
detailed below.  

The  Group  classifies  its  financial  assets  in  the  following 
categories:  financial  assets  at  fair  value  through  Income 
loans  and  receivables,  and 
Statement,  derivative  assets, 
available-for-sale  investments.  Management  determines  the 
classification of its financial assets at initial recognition. 

Purchases  and  sales  of  financial  assets  at  fair  value  through 
Income  Statement,  and  available-for-sale  are  recognised  on 
trade date, the date on which the Group commits to purchase or 
sell the asset. Loans are recognised when cash is advanced to 
the  borrowers.  Financial  assets  at  fair  value  through  Income 
Statement are recognised initially at fair value. 

All other financial assets are recognised initially at fair value, as 
well as directly attributable transaction costs. 

The Group has not classified any of its financial assets as held 
to maturity investments. 

Financial Liabilities 

The  Group  classifies  its  financial  liabilities  in  the  following 
categories:  liabilities  at  fair  value  through  Income  Statement, 
liabilities at amortised cost and derivative liabilities. 

Financial  liabilities  are  initially  recognised  at  fair  value  less 
transaction  costs,  except  where  they  are  designated  at  fair 
value,  in  which  case,  transaction  costs  are  expensed  as 
incurred.  They  are  subsequently  measured  at  amortised  cost, 
except for derivatives and liabilities at fair value, which are held 
at  fair  value  through Income  Statement.  Financial  liabilities  are 
recognised when an obligation arises and derecognised when it 
is discharged. 

A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the 
liability  is  discharged,  cancelled  or  expires.  Where  an  existing 
financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on 
substantially  different terms,  or the  terms  of  an  existing  liability 
are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is 
treated  as  a  derecognition  of  the  original  liability  and  the 
recognition  of  a  new  liability.  The  difference  in  the  respective 
carrying amounts is recognised in the Income Statement. 

Offsetting  

Financial assets and liabilities are offset where there is a legally 
enforceable right to set off, and there is an intention to settle on 
a  net  basis,  or  to  realise  the  asset  and  settle  the  liability 
simultaneously.

The  best  evidence  of  fair  value  at  initial  recognition  is  the 
transaction  price,  unless  the  fair  value  of  that  instrument  is 
evidenced by comparison with other observable current market 
transactions  in  the  same  instrument,  or  based  on  a  valuation 
technique  whose  variables  include  only  data  from  observable 
markets. 

into 

fair  value 

transactions  where 

The  Group  enters 
is 
determined using valuation models, for which not all inputs are 
market observable prices or rates. Such a financial instrument is 
initially  recognised  at  the  transaction  price,  which  is  the  best 
indicator  of  fair  value,  although  the  value  obtained  from  the 
relevant valuation model may differ. The difference between the 
transaction price and the model value, commonly referred to as 
„day  one  profit  or  loss‟,  is  not  recognised  immediately  in  the 
Income Statement. 

The  timing  of  recognition  of  deferred  day  one  profit  or  loss  is 
determined individually. It is either amortised over the life of the 
transaction,  deferred  until  the  instrument‟s  fair  value  can  be 
determined using market observable inputs, or realised through 
settlement.  The  financial  instrument  is  subsequently  measured 
at  fair  value,  adjusted  for  the  deferred  day  one  profit  or  loss. 
Subsequent changes in fair value are recognised immediately in 
the  Income  Statement,  without  reversal  of  deferred  day  one 
profits or losses.  

Derecognition of Financial Assets 

Financial assets are derecognised either when sold, or when the 
rights  to  receive  cash  flows  from  the  financial  assets,  have 
expired  or  have  been  transferred,  or  when  the  Group  has 
transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership. 
In transactions where substantially all the risks and rewards are 
neither retained nor transferred, the Group derecognises assets, 
or  when  control  is  retained  the  assets  are  recognised  to  the 
extent of the Group‟s continuing involvement. 

(i) Assets at Fair Value Through Income Statement 

Assets classified at fair value through Income Statement include 
assets  held  for  trading  and  assets  that,  upon  initial  recognition 
are  designated  by  the  Group  as  at  fair  value  through  Income 
Statement.  Designation  is  made,  when  it  reduces  significant 
accounting  mismatches  between  assets  and  related  liabilities, 
the  group  of 
their 
performance  is  evaluated  on  a  fair  value  basis,  or  where  the 
asset is a contract which contains an embedded derivative. 

financial  assets  are  managed  and 

These  assets  are  recognised  on  trade  date  at  fair  value,  with 
transaction  costs  including  brokerage,  commissions  and  fees 
expensed  through the  Income Statement.  Subsequent  to  initial 
recognition,  where  an  active  market  exists,  fair  value  is 
measured using quoted market bid prices. In a trading portfolio 
with offsetting risk positions, quoted mid prices, where available, 
are used to measure fair value.  

Non-market  quoted  assets  are  valued  using  valuation 
techniques  based  on  market  observable  inputs.  In  a  limited 
number  of  instances,  valuation  techniques  are  based  on  non-
market observable inputs.  

Subsequent  to  initial  recognition,  changes  in  fair  value  are 
recognised  in  other  operating  income.  Dividends  earned  are 
recorded in other operating income. Interest earned, is recorded 
within net interest earnings, using the effective interest method. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

105 

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

In addition, the Group measures bills discounted intended to be 
sold  into  the  market  at  fair  value,  which  are  classified  within 
loans, bills discounted and other receivables. 

Assets  classified  at  fair  value  through  Income  Statement  are 
further  classified  into  three  sub-categories:  trading,  insurance 
and other. 

Trading 

Trading  assets  are  debt  and  equity  securities  that  are  actively 
traded. 

Insurance 

Insurance  assets  are  investments  that  back  life  insurance 
contracts and life investment contracts.  

Other 

Other investments include financial assets, which the Group has 
designated at fair value through Income Statement at inception, 
to  either  eliminate  an  accounting  mismatch  or  as  they  are 
managed on a fair value basis.  

(j) Available-for-Sale Investments 

Available-for-sale  investments  are  public  and  other  debt  and 
equity  securities  that  are  not  classified  at  fair  value  through 
Income Statement or as loans and receivables.  

including 

transaction  costs.  Subsequent 

Available-for-sale  investments  are  initially  recognised  at  fair 
value 
initial 
recognition,  where  an  active  market  exists,  fair  value  is 
measured  using  quoted  market  bid  prices.  Quoted  mid  prices, 
where  available,  are  used  to  measure  fair  value  in  a  portfolio 
with offsetting risk positions. 

to 

Non-market  quoted  instruments  are  valued  using  valuation 
techniques, based on observable inputs. In a limited number of 
instances,  valuation  techniques  are  not  based  on  observable 
market data. 

Equity  investments  classified  as  available-for-sale,  whose  fair 
value cannot be reliably measured, are valued at cost.  

Gains  and  losses  arising  from  changes  in  fair  value  are 
recognised  in  the  available-for-sale  investments‟  reserve  within 
equity, net of applicable income taxes until such investments are 
sold,  collected,  otherwise  disposed  of,  or  become  impaired. 
Interest,  premiums  and  dividends  are  recognised  in  income 
when earned. 

Available-for-sale  investments  are  tested  for  impairment  in  line 
with Note 1(n). 

Upon  disposal  or  impairment,  the  accumulated  change  in  fair 
value  within 
is 
transferred  to  the  Income  Statement  and  reported  within  other 
operating income. 

the  available-for-sale 

investments  reserve 

(k) Repurchase Agreements 

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase, are recognised 
within  the  available-for-sale  investments  or  assets  at  fair  value 
Income  Statement  categories  and  accounted  for 
through 
accordingly.  

A  liability  is  recognised  within  deposits  in  respect  of  the 
obligation 
reverse 
repurchase  agreements  are  recorded  within  cash  and  liquid 
assets.  

repurchase.  Securities  held  under 

to 

106 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

(l) Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables 

Loans, bills discounted and other receivables are non-derivative 
financial assets, with fixed and determinable payments that are 
not quoted in an active market. They are measured at amortised 
cost, with the exception of bills discounted, which are measured 
at fair value.  

Loans, bills discounted and other receivables include overdrafts, 
home loans, credit card and other personal lending, term loans, 
bill  financing,  redeemable  preference  shares,  securities  and 
finance leases. Initially recognised at fair value, including direct 
and  incremental  transaction  costs,  loans  and  receivables  are 
subsequently  measured  at  amortised  cost  using  the  effective 
interest  method  and  are  presented  net  of  provisions  for 
impairment. Bills discounted (bank acceptances) intended to be 
sold into the market are measured at fair value until sold. 

Non-Performing Facilities 

Individual  provisions  for  impairment  are  recognised  to  reduce 
the  carrying  amount  of  loans,  bills  discounted  and  other 
receivables to their estimated recoverable amounts. Individually 
significant  provisions  are  calculated  based  on  discounted  cash 
flows. 

The  unwinding  of  the  discount,  from  initial  recognition  of 
impairment  through to  recovery  of the  written  down  amount, is 
recognised as interest income. In subsequent periods, interest in 
arrears/due  on  non-performing  facilities  is  recognised  in  the 
Income Statement using the original effective interest rate. 

Restructured Facilities 

When the original contractual terms of facilities (primarily loans) 
are modified, they become classified as restructured.  

These facilities continue to accrue interest, as long as the facility 
is  performing  in  accordance  with  the  restructured  terms.  If 
performance  is  not  maintained,  or  collection  of  interest  and/or 
principal is no longer probable, the facility will be returned to the 
non-performing  classification.  Facilities  are  generally  kept  as 
non-performing until they are returned to a performing basis. 

Assets Acquired Through Securities Enforcement (AATSE) 

Assets  acquired  in  satisfaction  of  facilities  in  default  (primarily 
loans)  are  recorded  at  net  market  value  at  the  date  of 
acquisition. Any  difference between  the carrying  amount  of the 
facility  and  the  net  market  value  of  the  assets  acquired  is 
represented as an individually assessed provision or written off. 
AATSE  are  further  classified  as  Other  Real  Estate  Owned  or 
Other  Assets  Acquired  Through  Security  Enforcement  in  the 
Balance Sheet. 

Impairment of Loans, Bills Discounted and Other 
Receivables 

The  Group  has  individually  assessed  and  collective  provisions 
for impairment as explained in Note 1(n). 

(m) Leases 

When  the  Group  is  a  lessor,  leases  are  classified  as  either 
finance  leases  or  operating  leases.  Under  a  finance  lease, 
substantially  all  the  risks  and  rewards  incidental  to  legal 
ownership,  are  transferred  to  the  lessee.  An  operating  lease 
exists  where  the  substantial  risks  and  rewards  of  the  leased 
assets remain with the Group. 

In its capacity as a lessor, the Group recognises the assets held 
under  finance  leases  in  the  Balance  Sheet,  as  loans  at  an 
amount equal to the net investment in the lease. 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

Available-for-Sale Investments  

The  recognition  of  finance  income  is  based  on  a  pattern 
reflecting  a  constant  periodic  return  on  the  Group‟s  net 
investment  in  the  finance  leases.  Finance  lease  income  is 
included within interest income in the Income Statement. 

In its capacity as a lessor, the Group recognises the assets held 
under operating leases in the Balance Sheet as property, plant 
and equipment and depreciates the assets accordingly. 

Operating lease revenue is recognised in the Income Statement 
on a straight line basis over the lease term. 

When the Group is a lessee, it engages in operating leases for 
which rental expense is recognised on a straight line basis over 
the lease term. 

(n) Provisions for Impairment 

Financial Assets  

Financial  assets,  excluding  derivative  assets  and  assets  at  fair 
value through Income Statement, are reviewed at each Balance 
Sheet date, to determine whether there is objective evidence of 
impairment. A  financial  asset,  or  portfolio  of financial  assets, is 
impaired and impairment losses are incurred if, and only if, there 
is objective evidence of impairment. This can arise as a result of 
one or more loss events that occurred after the initial recognition 
of the asset and prior to the Balance Sheet date ('a loss event') 
and  that  loss  event  or  events  has  had  an  impact  on  the 
estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the portfolio 
that can be reliably estimated. If any such indication exists, the 
asset's carrying amount is written down to the asset's estimated 
recoverable amount.  

Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables  

The Group assesses at each Balance Sheet date whether there 
is  any  objective  evidence  of  impairment.  If  there  is  objective 
evidence that an impairment loss on loans, bills discounted and 
other  receivables  has  been incurred, the  amount  of  the  loss is 
measured  as  the  difference  between  the  asset's  carrying 
amount and the present value of the expected future cash flows 
(excluding  future  credit  losses  that  have  not  been  incurred), 
discounted at the financial asset's original effective interest rate. 
Short-term balances are not discounted.  

impairment.  The  Group  has 

Loans  and  bills  discounted  are  presented  net  of  provisions  for 
loan 
individually  assessed 
provisions  and  collectively  assessed  provisions.  Individually 
assessed provisions are made against financial assets that are 
individually significant, or which have been individually assessed 
as impaired. 

All  other  loans  and  advances  that  do  not  have  an  individually 
assessed  provision  are  assessed  collectively  for  impairment. 
Collective  provisions  are  maintained  to  reduce  the  carrying 
amount  of  portfolios  of  similar  loans  and  advances  to  their 
estimated recoverable amounts at the Balance Sheet date. 

The  expected  future  cash  flows  for  portfolios  of  assets  with 
similar  credit  risk  characteristics  are  estimated  on  the  basis  of 
historical  loss  experience.  Loss  experience  is  adjusted  on  the 
basis of current observable data to reflect the effects of current 
conditions  that  did  not  affect  the  period  on  which  the  loss 
experience is based and to remove the effects of conditions in 
the period that do not currently exist. Increases or decreases in 
the provision amount are recognised in the Income Statement. 

The Group assesses at each Balance Sheet date, whether there 
is  any  objective  evidence  of  impairment.  For  available-for-sale 
debt  securities,  the  Group  uses  the  same  indicators  as  loans, 
bills  discounted  and  other  receivables.  For  available-for-sale 
equity  securities,  a  significant  or  prolonged  decline  in  the  fair 
value  below  the  cost  is  considered  in  determining  whether  the 
asset  is impaired.  If  any  such  evidence  exists  for  available-for-
sale securities, cumulative losses are removed from equity and 
recognised in the Income Statement. If, in a subsequent period, 
the fair value of an available-for-sale debt security increases and 
the increase can be linked objectively to an event occurring after 
the  impairment  event,  the  impairment  is  reversed  through  the 
Income  Statement.  However,  impairment  losses  on  available-
for-sale equity securities are not reversed. 

Goodwill, Intangibles and Other Non-Financial Assets 

Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life 
are  not  subject  to  amortisation  and  are  tested  annually  for 
in 
impairment  or  more 
circumstances  indicate  that  the  carrying  amount  may  not  be 
recoverable.  

if  events  or  changes 

frequently 

All  definite  useful  life  intangibles  are  tested  for  impairment, 
should  an  event  or  change  in  circumstance  indicate  that  the 
carrying amount may not be recoverable. 

If  any  such  indications  exist,  the  asset‟s  carrying  amount  is 
written  down  to  the  asset‟s  estimated  recoverable  amount  and 
the loss is recognised in the Income Statement in the period in 
which it occurs. 

The carrying amounts of the Group‟s other non-financial assets 
are reviewed at each Balance Sheet date to determine whether 
there  is  any  indication  of  impairment.  If  any  such  indication 
exists, the asset‟s recoverable amount is estimated. 

An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount 
of  an  asset  or  its  Cash  Generating  Unit  (CGU)  exceeds  its 
recoverable  amount.  Impairment  losses  are  recognised  in  the 
Income Statement. The recoverable amount of an asset or CGU 
is the greater of the fair value less cost to sell, or value in use. 

For the purpose 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.  Assets  (other  than  goodwill) 
that  have  previously  been  impaired  are  reviewed  for  possible 
reversal of the impairment at each reporting date. A previously 
recognised  impairment  loss  is  reversed  if  there  has  been  a 
change  in  the  estimates  used  to  determine  the  recoverable 
amount. However, the reversal is not to an amount higher than 
the  carrying  amount  that  would  have  been  determined,  net  of 
amortisation  or  depreciation,  if  no  impairment  loss  had  been 
recognised in prior years. 

Off Balance Sheet Items 

Guarantees and other contingent liabilities are accounted for as 
off  balance  sheet  items.  Provisioning  for  these  exposures  is 
calculated  under  AASB  137  „Provisions,  Contingent  Liabilities 
and Contingent Assets‟. 

Loan  assets  under  committed 
facilities  are  not 
recognised  until  the  facilities  are  drawn  upon.  Generally 
therefore,  it  will  not  be  appropriate  to  provide  for  these  assets 
under an incurred loss model. 

lending 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

107 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

The  Group  however,  has  determined  that  it  is  appropriate  to 
include  these  assets  in  an  impairment  calculation  where  a 
customer has been downgraded. A risk rated model is used to 
calculate these provisions (e.g. Collective Provision = Probability 
of  Default  (PD)  x  Loss  Given  Default  x  Exposure  At  Default). 
The PD is based on the remaining life of the exposure, capped 
at five years. 

These provisions are disclosed as other liabilities as there are no 
on balance sheet assets to offset these provisions against. 

(o) Bank Acceptances of Customers 

The exposure arising from the acceptance of bills of exchange 
that are sold into the market is recognised as a liability. An asset 
of equal value is recognised to reflect the offsetting claim against 
the  drawer  of the bill. Bank  acceptances generate  interest  and 
fee  income  that  is  recognised  in  the  Income  Statement  when 
earned. 

(p) Shares in and Loans to Controlled Entities 

Investments  in  controlled  entities  are  initially  recorded  at  cost 
and  subsequently  held  at  the  lower  of  cost  and  recoverable 
amount. Loans to controlled entities are subsequently recorded 
at amortised cost less impairment. 

(q) Assets Classified as Held for Sale 

Assets  are  classified  as  held  for  sale,  when  their  carrying 
amounts are expected to be recovered principally through sale 
within  twelve  months.  They  are  measured  at  the  lower  of 
carrying  amount  and  fair  value  less  costs  to  sell,  unless  the 
nature  of  the  assets  requires  they  be  measured  in  line  with 
another accounting standard. 

Assets  classified  as  held  for  sale  are  neither  amortised  nor 
depreciated.  

(r) Property, Plant and Equipment 

The Group measures its property assets (land and buildings) at 
fair value, based on annual independent market valuations.  

Revaluation  adjustments  are  generally  reflected  in  the  asset 
revaluation  reserve,  except  to  the  extent  they  reverse  a 
revaluation decrease of the same asset previously recognised in 
the  Income  Statement.  Gains  or  losses  on  disposals  are 
determined  as 
the  net  disposal 
proceeds, if any, and the carrying amount of the item. Realised 
amounts in the asset revaluation reserve are transferred to the 
capital reserve. 

the  difference  between 

Equipment  is  measured  at  cost  less  accumulated  depreciation 
and  provision  for  impairment.  Depreciation  is  calculated  using 
the straight  line method to  allocate  the cost  of  assets less  any 
residual value over the estimated useful economic life. 

Computer  software  is  capitalised  at  cost  and  classified  as 
property,  plant  and  equipment  where  it  is  integral  to  the 
operation of associated hardware. 

The  useful  lives  of  major  depreciable  asset  categories  are  as 
follows: 

Buildings 

Fixtures and fittings 

Leasehold improvements 

Up to 30 years 

10 – 20 years 

Lesser of unexpired lease 
term or lives as above 

Furniture and equipment 

3 - 8 years 

108 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Depreciation rates and methods are reviewed on a timely basis 
to take account of any change in circumstances. 

No  depreciation  is  charged  on  freehold  land,  although,  in 
common  with  all  long-lived  assets,  it  is  subject  to  impairment 
testing,  if  deemed  appropriate.  Property,  plant  and  equipment 
are periodically reviewed for impairment. Where an indication of 
impairment exists and the carrying amount of an asset is greater 
than  its  estimated  recoverable  amount,  it  is  written  down 
immediately  through  the  Income  Statement  to  its  recoverable 
amount. 

(s) Business Combinations 

Business  combinations  are  accounted  for  using  the  acquisition 
method. Cost is measured as the aggregate of the fair values of 
assets given, equity instruments issued, or liabilities incurred or 
assumed at the date of exchange. 

transaction-by-transaction  basis, 

Identifiable  assets  acquired  and 
liabilities  and  contingent 
liabilities  assumed  in  a  business  combination  are  measured  at 
the fair value on the acquisition date. The acquirer can elect, on 
a 
to  measure  any  non-
controlling  interest  either  at  fair  value,  or  at  the  non-controlling 
interest‟s  proportionate  share  of  the  identifiable  assets  and 
liabilities.  The  excess  of  consideration  transferred  and  the 
amount of non controlling interest over the net identifiable assets 
acquired  and  liabilities  assumed  is  recorded  as  goodwill.  If  the 
cost  of  acquisition  is  less  than  the  acquirer‟s  share  of  the  fair 
value of the identifiable net assets of the business acquired, the 
difference  is  recognised  directly  in  the  consolidated  Income 
Statement,  but  only  after  a  reassessment  of  the  identification 
and measurement of the net assets acquired.  

(t) Intangibles 

Goodwill 

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over 
the  fair  value  of  the  consolidated  entity‟s  share  of  the  net 
identifiable  assets  of  the  acquired  entity  at  the  date  of 
acquisition.  The  cost  of  an  acquisition  is  made  up  of  the 
consideration transferred, the amount of non-controlling interests 
and  the  fair  value  of  any  previously  held  equity  interest  in  the 
acquiree.  Goodwill  is  initially  measured  as  the  excess  of  the 
aggregate of the consideration transferred and the fair value of 
non-controlling interest over the net identifiable assets acquired 
and 
from  business 
combinations  is  included  in  intangible  assets  on  the  Balance 
Sheet.  Goodwill  arising  from  acquisitions  of  associates  is 
included in the carrying amount of investments in associates. 

liabilities  assumed.  Goodwill  arising 

Computer Software Costs 

Certain internal and external costs directly incurred in acquiring 
and developing software, are capitalised and amortised over the 
estimated useful life, a period of three to twelve years.  

Costs  incurred  on  software  maintenance  are  expensed  as 
incurred.  

Core Deposits 

Core deposits have been recognised following the acquisition of 
Bankwest and represent the value of the deposit base acquired 
in  the  business  combination.  Initially  recognised  at  fair  value, 
they are subsequently amortised over the estimated useful life of 
seven years. 

 
 
 
Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

Brand Names 

Brand  names  are  recognised  when  acquired  in  a  business 
combination. Initially recognised at fair value, in general they are 
considered  to  have  an  indefinite  useful  life  as  there  is  no 
foreseeable  limit  to  the  period  over  which  the  brand  name  is 
expected to generate cash flows. 

Management Fee Rights 

Management fee rights are recognised when acquired as part of 
a business combination and are considered to have an indefinite 
useful  life  under  the  contractual  terms  of  the  management 
agreements. 

Other Intangibles 

Other 
lists. 
intangibles  predominantly  comprise  customer 
Customer  relationships  acquired  as  part  of  a  business 
combination,  are  initially  measured  at  fair  value  at  the  date  of 
acquisition  and  subsequently  measured  at  cost 
less 
losses. 
accumulated  amortisation  and  any 
Amortisation is calculated based on the timing of projected cash 
flows of the relationships over their estimated useful lives. 

impairment 

(u) Deposits From Customers  

Deposits  and  other  public  borrowings  include  certificates  of 
deposit, term deposits, savings deposits, other demand deposits 
and  debentures.  They  are  initially  recognised  at  fair  value, 
including directly attributable transaction costs and subsequently 
measured at amortised cost. Interest and yield related fees are 
recognised on an effective interest basis.  

(v) Payables Due to Other Financial Institutions 

Payables  due  to  other  financial  institutions  include  deposits, 
vostro  balances  and settlement  account  balances  due  to  other 
banks. Initially they are recognised at fair value, including directly 
attributable transaction costs. They are subsequently recognised 
at amortised cost. Interest and yield related fees are recognised 
using the effective interest method. 

(w) Liabilities at Fair Value Through Income Statement 

The  Group  designates  certain  liabilities  at  fair  value  through 
Income  Statement  on  origination,  where  those  liabilities  are 
managed on a fair value basis, or where the liabilities eliminate 
an  accounting  mismatch.  Initially  they  are  recognised  on  trade 
date at fair value, with transaction costs being taken directly to 
the Income Statement. Subsequently, they are measured at fair 
value using quoted market offer prices, where an active market 
exists. Quoted mid prices, where available, are used to measure 
liabilities with offsetting risk positions in a portfolio at fair value. 

Non-market  quoted  instruments  are  valued  using  valuation 
techniques  based  on  observable  inputs  existing  at  Balance 
Sheet  date.  In  a  limited  number  of  instances,  valuation 
techniques are based on non-market data. 

(x) Income Taxes 

Income  tax  on  the  profit  and  loss  for  the  period  comprises 
current and deferred tax.  

Income tax is recognised in the Income Statement, except to the 
extent that it relates to items recognised directly in OCI, in which 
case  it  is  recognised  in  the  Statement  of  Comprehensive 
Income. 

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

Notes to the Financial Statements 

Deferred tax is provided using the balance sheet liability method, 
providing 
the  carrying 
temporary  differences  between 
amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes 
and the amounts used for taxation purposes. 

for 

The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected 
manner  of  realisation  or  settlement  of  the  carrying  amount  of 
assets  and  liabilities,  using  tax  rates  enacted  or  substantially 
enacted at the Balance Sheet date which are expected to apply 
when  the  deferred  tax  asset  is  realised  or  the  deferred  tax 
liability is settled. 

A  deferred  tax  asset  is  recognised  only  to  the  extent  it  is 
probable  that  future  taxable  profits  will  be  available  against 
which the asset can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are reduced 
to  the  extent  that  it  is  no  longer  probable  that  the  related  tax 
benefit will be realised. 

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia Tax Consolidated Group 
elected to be taxed as a single entity under the tax consolidation 
system with effect from 1 July 2002.  

The Group has formally notified the Australian Taxation Office of 
its  adoption  of  the  tax  consolidation  regime.  In  addition,  the 
measurement  and  disclosure  of  deferred  tax  assets  and 
liabilities has been performed in accordance with the principles 
in  AASB  112  „Income  Taxes‟,  and  on  a  modified  standalone 
basis under UIG 1052 „Tax Consolidation Accounting‟. 

Any  current  tax  liabilities/assets  (after  the  elimination  of  intra-
group transactions) and deferred tax assets arising from unused 
tax losses assumed by the Bank from the subsidiaries in the tax 
consolidated  group  are  recognised  in  conjunction  with  any  tax 
funding arrangement amounts.  

Any  difference  between  these  amounts  is  recognised  by  the 
Bank  as  an  equity  contribution  to,  or  distribution  from,  the 
subsidiary. 

The  Bank  recognises  deferred  tax  assets  arising  from  unused 
tax  losses  of  the  tax  consolidated  group  to  the  extent  it  is 
probable that future taxable profits of the tax consolidated group 
will be available against which the asset can be utilised.  

Any  subsequent  period  adjustments  to  deferred  tax  assets 
arising  from  unused  tax  losses  assumed  from  subsidiaries  are 
recognised by the Bank only. 

The members of the tax consolidated group have entered into a 
tax funding arrangement which sets out the funding obligations 
of  members  of  the  tax  consolidated  group  in  respect  of  tax 
amounts. 

(y) Employee Benefits 

Annual Leave 

The  provision 
outstanding liability to employees at Balance Sheet date. 

for  annual 

represents 

leave 

the  current 

Long Service Leave 

The provision for long service leave is discounted to the present 
value, is subject to actuarial review and is maintained at a level 
that accords with actuarial advice. 

Other Employee Benefits 

The  provision  for  other  employee  entitlements  represents 
liabilities for a subsidy to a registered health fund with respect to 
retired  and current  employees,  and  employee incentives  under 
employee share plans and bonus schemes. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

109 

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

(aa) Debt Issues 

The Group engages in share based remuneration in respect of 
services  received  from  certain  employees.  The  share  based 
remuneration  may  be  cash  settled  or  equity  settled.  The  fair 
value  of  equity settled  remuneration  is calculated  at  grant date 
and amortised to the Income Statement over the vesting period, 
with  a  corresponding  increase  in  the  employee  compensation 
reserve.  For  these  awards,  market  vesting  conditions,  such  as 
share  price  performance  conditions,  are  taken  into  account 
when  estimating the fair  value.  Non–market  vesting conditions, 
such as service conditions, are taken into account by adjusting 
the  number  of 
the 
the  equity 
measurement of the expense.  

instruments 

included 

in 

Cash  settled  remuneration  is  recognised  as  a  liability  and 
remeasured  to  fair  value  until  settled,  with  changes  in  the  fair 
value recognised as an expense. 

Defined Benefit Superannuation Plans 

currently 

two  defined  benefit 
sponsors 
The  Group 
superannuation  plans  for  its  employees.  The  assets  and 
liabilities  of  these  plans  are  legally  held  in  separate  trustee-
administered  funds.  They  are  calculated  separately  for  each 
plan,  by  assessing  the  fair  value  of  plan  assets  and  deducting 
the  amount  of  future  benefit  that  employees  have  earned  in 
return for their service in current and prior periods discounted to 
present value. The discount rate used where appropriate is the 
yield on high quality corporate bonds. However as the depth of 
this market is currently not sufficient, the yield at Balance Sheet 
date  on  government  securities,  which  have  terms  to  maturity 
approximating to the terms of the related liability, has been used.  

The  defined  benefit  superannuation  plan  surpluses  and/or 
deficits  are  calculated  by  fund  actuaries.  Contributions  to  all 
superannuation plans are made in accordance with the rules of 
the plans.  

Actuarial  gains  and 
to  defined  benefit 
superannuation  plans  are  directly  recorded  in  retained  profits 
through OCI. 

related 

losses 

The  net  surpluses  or  deficits  that  arise  within  defined  benefit 
superannuation  plans  are  recognised  and  disclosed  separately 
in other assets or bills payable and other liabilities. 

Defined Contribution Superannuation Plans 

The  Group  sponsors  a  number  of  defined  contribution 
superannuation plans. Certain plans permit employees to make 
contributions and earn matching or other contributions from the 
Group.  

The  Group  recognises  contributions  due,  in  respect  of  the 
accounting  period  in  the  Income  Statement.  Any  contributions 
unpaid at the Balance Sheet date are included as a liability. 

(z) Provisions 

Provision for Dividends 

A  provision  for  dividend  payable  is  recognised  when  dividends 
are declared by the Directors. 

Provisions for Restructuring 

Provisions  for  restructuring  are  recognised  where  there  is  a 
detailed  formal  plan  for  restructure  and  a  demonstrated 
commitment to that plan. 

Provision for Self-Insurance 

The  provision  for  self-insurance  covers  certain  non-lending 
losses  and  non-transferred  insurance  risks.  Actuarial  reviews 
are carried out at regular intervals with  discounted provisioning 
effected in accordance with actuarial advice. 

110 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Debt issues are short and long term debt issues of the Group, 
including commercial paper, notes, term loans and medium term 
notes  issued  by  the  Group.  Commercial  paper,  floating,  fixed 
and  structured  debt  issues  are  recorded  at  cost  or  amortised 
cost using the effective interest method.  

Premiums,  discounts  and  associated  issue  expenses  are 
recognised in the Income Statement, using the effective interest 
method, from the  date  of  issue, to  ensure that  securities  attain 
their redemption values by maturity date. 

Interest  is  recognised  in  the  Income  Statement  using  the 
effective  interest  method.  Any  profits  or  losses  arising  from 
redemption prior to maturity are taken to the Income Statement 
in the period in which they are realised. 

Where the Group has designated debt instruments at fair value 
through  Income  Statement,  the  changes  in  fair  value  are 
recognised in the Income Statement. 

Embedded  derivatives  with  economic  characteristics  and  risks 
that are not closely related to the economic characteristics and 
risks of the host instruments are separated from the debt issues. 

Hedging 

The  Group  hedges  interest  rate  and  foreign  currency  risk  on 
certain debt issues. When fair value hedge accounting is applied 
to  fixed  rate  debt  issues,  the  carrying  values  are  adjusted  for 
changes  in  fair  value  related  to  the  hedged  risks,  rather  than 
carried at amortised cost.  

(bb) Loan Capital 

Loan  capital  is  debt  issued  by  the  Group  with  terms  and 
conditions  that  qualify  for  inclusion  as  capital,  under  APRA 
Prudential  Standards.  It  is  initially  recorded  at  fair  value,  plus 
directly attributable transaction costs and thereafter at amortised 
cost using the effective interest method. 

(cc) Shareholders’ Equity 

Ordinary  shares  are  recognised  at  the  amount  paid  up  per 
ordinary share, net of directly attributable issue costs. 

Where  the  Bank  or  other  members  of  the  Group,  purchase 
shares  in  the  Bank,  the  consideration  paid,  is  deducted  from 
total shareholders‟ equity and the shares are treated as treasury 
shares  until they  are subsequently  sold,  reissued  or cancelled. 
Where  such  shares  are  sold  or  reissued,  any  consideration 
received, is included in shareholders‟ equity. 

The  general  reserve  is  derived  from  revenue  profits  and  is 
available for dividend payments except for undistributable profits 
in respect of the Group‟s life insurance businesses. 

The capital reserve is derived from capital profits and is available 
for dividend payments. 

(dd) Derivative Financial Instruments 

Derivative  financial  instruments  are  contracts  whose  value  is 
derived  from  one  or  more  underlying  price,  index  or  other 
variables. They include foreign exchange contracts, forward rate 
agreements, futures, options and interest rate, currency, equity 
and  credit  swaps.  Derivatives  are  entered  into  for  trading 
purposes  or  for  hedging  purposes.  Derivatives  entered  into  as 
economic  hedges  that  do  not  qualify  for  hedge  accounting  are 
classified as other derivatives. 

Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at the fair 
value  of  consideration  given  or  received.  Subsequent  gains  or 
losses  are  recognised 
Income  Statement,  unless 
the 
designated within a cash flow hedging relationship. 

in 

 
 
 
Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

Where an active market exists, fair value is measured based on 
quoted  market  prices.  Non-market  quoted  instruments  are 
valued using valuation techniques. Included in the determination 
of the fair value of derivatives is a credit valuation adjustment to 
reflect the creditworthiness of the counterparty. 

Derivatives  are  recognised  as  assets  when  their  fair  value  is 
positive and as liabilities when their fair value is negative. 

Derivative  Financial 
Relationships 

Instruments  Utilised  for  Hedging 

The  Group  uses  derivatives  to  manage  exposures  to  interest 
rate,  foreign  currency  and  credit  risks,  including  exposures 
arising from forecast transactions. 

Where derivatives are held for risk management purposes and 
when transactions meet the required criteria, the Group applies 
fair  value  hedge  accounting,  cash  flow  hedge  accounting,  or 
hedging of a net investment in a foreign operation as appropriate 
to the risks being hedged. 

Fair Value Hedges 

Changes  in  fair  value  of  derivatives  that  qualify  and  are 
designated  as  fair  value  hedges  are  recorded  in  the  Income 
Statement, together with changes in the fair value of the hedged 
asset  or  liability  that  are  attributable  to  the  hedged  risk.  The 
changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability shall be 
adjusted against their carrying value. 

If the hedge relationship no longer meets the criteria for hedge 
accounting,  it  is  discontinued.  For  fair  value  hedges  of  interest 
rate  risk,  the  fair  value  adjustment  to  the  hedged  item  is 
amortised to the Income Statement over the period to maturity of 
the previously designated hedge relationship using the effective 
interest  method.  If  the  hedged  item  is  sold  or  repaid,  the 
unamortised fair value adjustment is recognised immediately in 
the Income Statement. 

Cash Flow Hedges 

Changes in fair value associated with the effective portion of a 
derivative  designated  as  a  cash  flow  hedge,  are  recognised 
through other comprehensive income, in the Cash Flow Hedge 
Reserve, 
recognised 
immediately  in  the  Income  Statement.  Amounts  deferred  in 
equity are transferred to the Income Statement in the period in 
which the hedged forecast transaction takes place. 

Ineffective  portions  are 

in  equity. 

When  a  hedging  instrument  expires  or  is  sold,  terminated  or 
exercised,  or  when  the  hedge  no  longer  meets  the  criteria  for 
hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or loss existing in equity 
at that time remains in equity and is reclassified to profit or loss 
in  the  period  in  which  the  hedged  item  affects  profit  or  loss. 
When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the 
cumulative  gain  or  loss  that  was  reported  in  equity  is  recycled 
immediately to the Income Statement. 

Notes to the Financial Statements 

host  contract.  If  the  host  contract  is  not  carried  at  fair  value 
through Income Statement and the economic characteristics and 
risks of the embedded derivative are not closely related to those 
of the host contract, the embedded derivative is separated from 
the  host  contract.  It  is  then  accounted  for  as  a  stand-alone 
derivative instrument at fair value. 

(ee) Commitments to Extend Credit, Letters of Credit, 
Guarantees, Warranties and Indemnities Issued 

Contingent  liabilities  are  possible  obligations,  whose  existence 
will  be  confirmed  only  by  uncertain  future  events,  or  present 
obligations where the transfer of economic benefit is uncertain or 
cannot  be  reliably  measured.  Contingent  liabilities  are  not 
recognised, but are disclosed, unless they are remote. 

Financial  guarantees  are  given  to  banks,  financial  institutions 
and  other  bodies  on  behalf  of  customers  to  secure  loans, 
overdrafts  and  other  banking  facilities,  and  to  other  parties  in 
connection with the performance of customers under obligations 
related to contracts, advance payments made by other parties, 
tenders, retentions and the payment of import duties. 

Financial  guarantee  contracts  are  initially  recognised  at  fair 
value. 

Subsequent  to  initial  recognition,  financial  guarantees  are 
measured at the higher of the initial measurement amount, less 
amortisation calculated to recognise fee income earned, and the 
best estimate of the expenditure required to settle any financial 
obligation at the Balance Sheet date. 

Any  increase  in  the  liability  relating  to  financial  guarantees  is 
recognised  in  the  Income  Statement.  Any  liability  remaining  is 
recognised  in  the  Income  Statement  when  the  guarantee  is 
discharged, cancelled or expires. 

(ff) Life and General Insurance Business 

Life Insurance Business 

The life insurance business is comprised of insurance contracts 
and  investment  contracts  as  defined  in  AASB  4  „Insurance 
Contracts‟. The following are key accounting policies in relation 
to the life insurance business.  

Disclosure 

The  consolidated  financial  statements  include  the  assets, 
liabilities,  income  and  expenses  of  the  life  insurance  business 
conducted by a subsidiary of the Bank in accordance with AASB 
139 „Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement‟ and 
AASB  1038  „Life  Insurance  Contracts‟  respectively.  These 
amounts  represent  the  total  life  insurance  business  of  the 
subsidiary,  including  underlying  amounts  that  relate  to  both 
policyholders and shareholders of the life insurance business.  

Investment Assets 

Investment  assets  are  carried  at  fair  value  through  Income 
Statement in line with note 1(i).  

Net Investment Hedges 

Restriction on Assets 

Gains and losses on derivative contracts relating to the effective 
portion of the net investment hedge are recognised in the foreign 
currency  translation  reserve  in  equity.  Ineffective  portions  are 
recognised  immediately  in  the  Income  Statement.  Gains  and 
losses  accumulated  in  equity  are  included  in  the  Income 
Statement when the foreign subsidiary or branch is disposed of. 

Embedded Derivatives 

In  certain  instances,  a  derivative  may  be  embedded  within  a 

Investments held in the Life Funds can only be used within the 
restrictions  imposed  under  the  Life  Insurance  Act  1995.  The 
main restrictions are that the assets in a fund can only be used 
to  meet  the  liabilities  and  expenses  of  the  fund,  acquire 
investments  to  further  the  business  of  the  fund  or  pay 
distributions when solvency and capital adequacy requirements 
allow.  Shareholders  can  only  receive  a  distribution  when  the 
capital  adequacy  requirements  of  the  Life  Insurance  Act  1995 
are met. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

111 

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

Policy Liabilities 

Life  insurance  liabilities  are  measured  as  the  accumulated 
benefits  to  policyholders  in  accordance  with  AASB  139  and 
AASB 1038, which apply to investment contracts and insurance 
liabilities,  respectively.  Life  insurance  contract  liabilities  are 
measured  at  the  net  present  value  of  future  receipts  from  and 
payments  to  policyholders  using  a  risk  free  discount  rate  (or 
expected  fund  earning  rate  where  benefits  are  contractually 
linked  to  the  asset  performance),  and  are  calculated  in 
accordance  with  the  principles  of  Margin  on  Services  (MoS) 
profit  reporting  as  set  out  in  Prudential  Standard  LPS  1.04 
„Valuation of Policy Liabilities‟ (LPS 1.04) issued by APRA. 

Life  investment contract  liabilities  are measured  at fair  value  in 
accordance with AASB 139 as liabilities at fair value. 

Returns  on  all  investments  controlled  by  life  insurance  entities 
within the Group are recognised as revenue. Investments in the 
Group‟s  own  equity  instruments  held  within  the  life  insurance 
statutory funds and other funds are treated as treasury shares. 

Initial  entry  fee  income  on  investment  contracts  issued  by  life 
insurance  entities  is  recognised  upfront,  where  the  Group 
provides  financial  advice.  Other  entry  fees  are  deferred  and 
recognised  over  the  life  of  the  underlying  investment  contract. 
Participating  benefits  vested  in  relation  to  the  financial  year, 
other 
from  unvested  policyholder  benefits 
transfers 
liabilities, are recognised as expenses. 

than 

Reinsurance  contracts  entered  into  are  recognised  on  a  gross 
basis. 

Premiums and Claims 

Premiums and claims are separated on a product basis into their 
revenue, expense and change in liability components, unless the 
separation  is  not  practicable,  or  the  components  cannot  be 
reliably measured. 

(i) Life insurance contracts 

Premiums received for providing services and bearing risks are 
recognised  as  revenue. Premiums  with  a  regular  due  date  are 
recognised  as  revenue  on  a  due  and  receivable  basis. 
Premiums with no due date are recognised on a cash received 
basis. Insurance contract claims are recognised as an expense 
when a liability has been established. 

(ii) Life investment contracts 

Premiums  received  include  the  fee  portion  of  the  premium 
recognised as revenue over the period the underlying service is 
provided  and  the  deposit  portion  recognised  as  an  increase  in 
investment  contract  liabilities.  Premiums  with  no  due  date  are 
recognised on a cash received basis.  

Fees earned for managing the funds invested are recognised as 
revenue  as  the  service  is  provided.  Claims  under  investment 
contracts represent withdrawals of investment deposits and are 
recognised as a reduction in investment contract liabilities. The 
investment contract liability calculated in accordance with AASB 
139 is no less than the contract surrender value. 

Life Insurance Liabilities and Profit 

Life  insurance  contract  policy  liabilities  are  calculated  in  a  way 
that allows for the systematic release of planned profit margins 
as  services  are  provided  to  policy  owners  and  the  revenues 
relating  to  those  services  are  received.  Selected  profit  carriers 
including premiums and anticipated policy payments are used to 
determine profit recognition. 

112 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

insurance  contract  and 

Investment assets are held in excess of those required to meet 
life 
liabilities. 
Investment earnings are directly influenced by market conditions 
and as such this component of profit varies from year to year. 

investment  contract 

Participating Policies 

insurance  contract  policy 

Life 
to 
participating  policies  include  the  value  of  future  planned 
shareholder  profit  margins  and  an  allowance 
future 
supportable bonuses.  

liabilities  attributable 

for 

The  value  of  supportable  bonuses  and  planned  shareholder 
profit margins account for all profit on participating policies based 
on best estimate assumptions. 

Under  the  MoS  profit  recognition  methodology,  the  value  of 
supportable bonuses and the shareholder profit margin relating 
to a reporting year will emerge as planned profits in that year. 

Life Insurance Contract Acquisition Costs 

Acquisition  costs  for  life  insurance  contracts  include  the  fixed 
and variable costs of acquiring new business. These costs are 
effectively  deferred  through  the  determination  of  life  insurance 
contract  liabilities  at  the  Balance  Sheet  date  to  the  extent  that 
they are deemed recoverable from the expected future profits of 
an amount equivalent to the deferred cost. 

Deferred acquisition costs are amortised over the expected life 
of the life insurance contract. 

Life Investment Contract Acquisition Costs 

Acquisition  costs  for  investment  contracts  include  the  variable 
costs  of  acquiring  new  business.  However,  the  deferral  of 
investment contract acquisition costs is limited by the application 
of  AASB  118  „Revenue‟  to  the  extent  that  only  incremental 
transaction  costs  (for  example  commissions  and  volume 
bonuses) are deferred.  

Managed Funds Units on Issue – Held by Non-controlling 
Unit-Holders 

The  life  insurance  statutory  funds  and  other  funds  include 
controlling  interests  in  trusts  and  companies,  and  the  total 
amounts  of  each  underlying  asset,  liability,  revenue  and 
expense of the controlled entities are recognised in the Group‟s 
consolidated Financial Statements. 

When  a  controlled  unit  trust  is  consolidated,  the  share  of  the 
unit-holder  liability  attributable  to  the  Group  is  eliminated  but 
amounts due to external unit-holders remain as liabilities in the 
Group‟s consolidated balance sheet. The share of the net assets 
of  controlled  companies  attributable  to  non-controlling  unit-
holders is disclosed separately on the Balance Sheet.  

In the Income Statement, the net profit or loss of the controlled 
entities  relating  to  non-controlling  interests  is  eliminated  before 
arriving at the net profit or loss attributable to Equity holders of 
the Bank. 

General Insurance Business 

Premium Revenue 

Premium revenue comprises amounts charged to policyholders, 
including  fire  service  levies,  but  excludes  taxes  collected  on 
behalf of third parties. The earned portion of premiums received 
and  receivable  is  recognised  as  revenue.  Premium  revenue  is 
earned from the date of attachment of risk and over the term of 
the policies written, based on assessment of the likely pattern in 
which risk will emerge. The portion not earned as determined by 
the above methods is recognised as unearned premium liability. 

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

Unearned Premium Liability  

The adequacy of the unearned premium liability is assessed by 
considering current  estimates  of  all  expected future cash flows 
relating to future claims covered by current insurance contracts. 

If the present value of the expected future cash flows relating to 
future  claims,  plus  the  additional  risk  margin  to  reflect  the 
inherent  uncertainty  in  the  estimate,  exceeds  the  unearned 
premium liability less related deferred acquisition costs, then the 
unearned premium liability is deemed deficient. Any deficiency is 
recognised  immediately 
Income  Statement  as  an 
the 
expense,  both  gross  and  net  of  reinsurance.  The  deficiency  is 
recognised  by  writing  down  any  related  deferred  acquisition 
costs, with any excess being recorded on the Balance Sheet as 
an unexpired risk liability. 

in 

Reinsurance  

Premium ceded to reinsurers is recognised as an expense from 
the  attachment  date  over  the  period  of  indemnity  of  the 
reinsurance  contract, 
the  pattern  of 
reinsurance service received. Accordingly, a portion of outwards 
reinsurance  premium  is  treated  at  the  Balance  Sheet  date  as 
deferred reinsurance. 

in  accordance  with 

Claims Expense 

Claims  expense  and  a  liability  for  outstanding  claims  are 
recognised in respect of all business. The liability covers claims 
reported  but  not  yet  paid,  incurred  but  not  reported  claims 
(IBNR)  and  the  anticipated  direct  and  indirect  costs  of  settling 
those  claims.  The  liability  for  outstanding  claims  is  determined 
having  regard  to  an  independent  actuarial  assessment.  The 
liability is measured as the estimate of the present value of the 
expected  future  payments  against  claims  incurred  at  the 
Balance  Sheet  date,  with  an  additional  risk margin to  allow  for 
the  inherent  uncertainty  in  the  estimate.  These  payments  are 
estimated  on  the  basis  of  the  ultimate  cost  of  settling  claims, 
which  is  affected  by  factors  arising  during  the  period  to 
settlement, such as inflation. The expected future payments are 
discounted  to  present  value  at  the  Balance  Sheet  date  using 
market-determined, risk-adjusted discount rates.  

the  effective  interest  method.  Interest  rate  swaps  and  liquidity 
facilities  are  provided at  arm‟s  length to the programme  by the 
Group in accordance with APRA Prudential Guidelines. 

Derivatives  return  the  risks  and  rewards  of  ownership  of  the 
securitised  assets  to  the  Group  and  consequently  the  Group 
cannot  derecognise  these  assets.  An  imputed  liability  is 
recognised inclusive of the derivative and any related fees. 

For  further  details  on  the  treatment  of  consolidated  securitised 
entities, refer to Note 1(c). 

(hh) Fiduciary Activities 

Certain controlled entities within the Group, act as Responsible 
Entity,  Trustee  and/or  Manager  for  a  number  of  wholesale, 
superannuation  and  investment  funds,  trusts  and  approved 
deposit funds. 

The  assets  and  liabilities  of  these  trusts  and  funds  are  not 
included in the consolidated Financial Statements as the Group 
does not have direct or indirect control of the trusts and funds. 
Commissions  and  fees  earned  in  respect  of  the  activities  are 
included in the Income Statement of the Group. 

(ii) Earnings Per Share 

Basic  earnings  per  share  is  calculated  by  dividing  the  Group‟s 
profit  attributable  to  ordinary  equity  holders,  by  the  weighted 
average  number  of  ordinary  shares  outstanding  during  the 
financial  year,  excluding 
the  number  of  ordinary  shares 
purchased and held as treasury shares. 

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing the Group‟s 
profit  attributable  to  ordinary  equity  holders,  after  deducting 
interest on the convertible redeemable loan capital instruments, 
by the weighted average number of ordinary shares adjusted for 
the  effect  of  dilutive  options  and  dilutive  convertible  non-
cumulative redeemable loan capital instruments. 

(jj) Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates 

The  application of  the  Group‟s  accounting  policies  requires  the 
use  of  judgement,  estimates  and  assumptions.  If  different 
assumptions  or  estimates  were  applied,  the  resulting  values 
would  change,  impacting  the  net  assets  and  income  of  the 
Group. 

A  risk  margin  is  applied  to  the  outstanding  claims  liability, 
sufficient to ensure the probability of adequacy of the liabilities to 
a 75% confidence level. 

Management  discusses  the  accounting  policies,  which  are 
sensitive  to  the  use  of  judgement,  estimates  and  assumptions 
with the Board Audit Committee. 

Acquisition Costs 

Acquisition  costs  include  brokerage  and  other  selling  and 
underwriting  costs  incurred  in  obtaining  general  insurance 
premiums.  A  portion  of  acquisition  costs  relating  to  unearned 
premium  revenue 
is  recognised  as  an  asset.  Deferred 
acquisition costs are amortised over the financial years expected 
to  benefit  from  the  expenditure  and  are  stated  at  the  lower  of 
cost and recoverable value. 

(gg) Asset Securitisation 

The Group conducts an asset securitisation programme through 
which it packages and sells assets as securities to investors.  

The Group is entitled to any residual income of the programme 
after all payments due to investors and costs of the programme 
have been met. Therefore the Group is considered to hold the 
majority  of  the  residual  risks  and  benefits  within  the  entities 
through  which  asset  securitisation  is  conducted  and  so  it 
consolidates these entities. 

Liabilities associated with asset securitisation entities and related 
issue costs are accounted for on an amortised cost basis using 

Provisions for Impairment of Financial Assets 

Provisions  for  impairment  of  financial  assets  are  raised  where 
there  is  objective  evidence  of  impairment  and  at  an  amount 
adequate  to  cover  assessed  credit  related  losses.  In  addition, 
provisions are raised where no objective evidence of impairment 
exists for an individually assessed financial asset, but for which 
a loss event has occurred which is likely to result in a loss within 
a group of financial assets.  

Credit  losses  arise  primarily  from  loans,  but  also  from  other 
credit  instruments  such  as  bank  acceptances,  contingent 
liabilities,  guarantees  and  other  financial  instruments  and 
AATSE. 

Individually Assessed Provisions 

Individually  assessed  provisions  are  raised  where  there  is 
objective evidence of impairment, that is where the Group does 
not expect to receive all of the cash flows contractually due.  

Individually assessed provisions are made against individual risk 
rated  credit  facilities  where  a  loss  of  $20,000  or  more  is 
expected.  The  provisions  are  established  based  primarily  on 
estimates of the realisable (fair) value of collateral taken and are 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

113 

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

measured as the difference between a financial asset‟s carrying 
amount and the present value of the expected future cash flows 
(excluding  future  credit  losses  that  have  not  been  incurred), 
discounted at the financial asset‟s original effective interest rate. 
Short term balances are not discounted. 

Collective Provision  

All other loans and receivables that do not have an individually 
assessed provision are assessed collectively for impairment.  

The  collective  provision  is  maintained  to  reduce  the  carrying 
amount  of  portfolios  of  similar  loans  and  receivables  to  their 
estimated recoverable amounts at the Balance Sheet date.  

The  evaluation  process is  subject to  a  series  of  estimates  and 
judgements.  In  the  risk  rated  segment,  the  risk  rating  system, 
including  the  frequency  of  default  and  loss  given  default  rates, 
loss  history,  and  the  size,  structure  and  diversity  of  individual 
borrowers  are  considered.  Current  developments  in  portfolios 
(industry, geographic and term) are reviewed. 

In  the  statistically  managed  (retail)  segment,  the  history  of 
defaults  and  losses,  and  the  size,  structure  and  diversity  of 
portfolios are considered. 

In addition, management considers overall indicators of portfolio 
performance, quality and economic conditions.  

Changes  in  these  estimates could have  a  direct impact  on the 
level of provision determined.  

The amount required to bring the collective provision to the level 
assessed  is  recognised  in  the  Income  Statement  as  set  out  in 
Note 14. 

Life Insurance Policyholder Liabilities 

Life  insurance  policyholder  liabilities  are  accounted  for  under 
AASB  1038  „Life  Insurance  Contracts‟.  A  significant  area  of 
judgement is in the determination of policyholder liabilities, which 
involve actuarial assumptions. 

The  areas  of  judgement  where  key  actuarial  assumptions  are 
made in the determination of policyholder liabilities are: 

 

 

 

Business assumptions including: 
- 

timing  and  duration  of  claims/policy 

Amount, 
payments; 
Policy lapse rates; and 
Acquisition  and  long  term  maintenance  expense 
levels. 

- 
- 

Long term economic assumptions for discount and interest 
rates, inflation rates and market earnings rates; and 

Selection of methodology, either projection or accumulation 
method. The selection of the method is generally governed 
by the product type. 

The determination of assumptions relies on making judgements 
on  variances  from  long  term  assumptions.  Where  experience 
differs from long term assumptions: 

 
 

Recent results may be a statistical aberration; or 
There  may  be  a  commencement  of  a  new  paradigm 
requiring a change in long term assumptions. 

The  Group‟s  actuaries  arrive  at  conclusions  regarding  the 
statistical analysis using their experience and judgement. 

Additional information on the accounting policy is set out in Note 
1(ff). 

Consolidation of Special Purpose Entities 

The  Group  assesses,  at  inception  and  periodically,  whether  a 
special purpose entity should be consolidated based on the risks  

114 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

and rewards of each entity and whether the majority pass to the 
Group.  Such  assessments  are  predominantly  required  in  the 
context of the Group‟s securitisation programme and structured 
transactions. 

Financial Instruments at Fair Value 

A  significant  portion  of  financial  instruments  are  carried  on  the 
Balance Sheet at fair value. 

The  best  evidence  of  fair  value  is  quoted  prices  in  an  active 
market. If the market for a financial instrument is not active, the 
Group establishes fair value by using a valuation technique. The 
objective of using a valuation technique is to establish what the 
transaction price would have been on the measurement date in 
an  arm‟s  length  exchange  motivated  by  normal  business 
considerations. 

Valuation  techniques  include  using  recent  arm‟s  length  market 
transactions between knowledgeable, willing parties, if available, 
reference to the current fair  value of  another  instrument  that  is 
substantially the same, discounted cash flow analysis and option 
pricing models. If there is a valuation technique commonly used 
by market participants to price the instrument and that technique 
has  been  demonstrated  to  provide  reliable  estimates  of  prices 
obtained  in  actual  market  transactions,  the  Group  uses  that 
technique. 

The chosen valuation technique makes maximum use of market 
inputs and relies as little as possible on entity specific inputs. It 
incorporates  all  factors  that  market  participants  would  consider 
in  setting  a  price  and  is  consistent  with  accepted  economic 
methodologies for pricing financial instruments. Data inputs that 
the Group relies upon when valuing financial instruments relate 
risk,  volatility,  correlation  and 
to  counterparty  credit 
extrapolation. 

Periodically,  the  Group  calibrates  the  valuation  technique  and 
tests  it  for  validity  using  prices  from  any  observable  current 
market  transactions  in  the  same  instrument  (i.e.  without 
modification  or  repackaging)  or  based  on  any  available 
observable market data. 

Goodwill 

The carrying value of goodwill is reviewed annually and is written 
down,  to  the  extent  that  it  is  no  longer  supported  by  probable 
future benefits. 

Goodwill  is  allocated  to  cash-generating  units  (CGUs)  for  the 
purpose of impairment testing, which is undertaken at the lowest 
level  at  which  goodwill  is  monitored  for  internal  management 
reporting purposes. 

Impairment testing of purchased goodwill is performed annually 
or more frequently when there is an indication that the goodwill 
may be impaired, by comparing the recoverable amount of the 
CGU with the current carrying amount of its net assets, including 
goodwill.  Where  the  current  carrying  value  is  greater  than 
recoverable amount, a charge for impairment of goodwill will be 
recorded in the Income Statement. 

Additional information on goodwill impairment testing is included 
in Note 16. 

Provisions (Other than Loan Impairment) 

Provisions  are  held  in  respect  of  a  range  of  future  obligations 
such  as  employee  entitlements,  restructuring  costs  and  non-
lending  losses.  Provisions  carried  for  long  service  leave  are 
supported  by  an  independent  actuarial  report.  Some  of  the 
provisions involve significant judgement about the likely outcome 
of various events and estimated future cash flows. 

 
 
 
 
Note 1 Accounting Policies (continued) 

involves 

these  benefits 

The  deferral  of 
the  exercise  of 
management  judgements  about  the  ultimate  outcomes  of  the 
transactions. Payments which are expected to be incurred later 
than  one  year  are  discounted  at  a  rate  which  reflects  both 
current interest rates and the risks specific to that provision. 

Taxation 

Provisions for taxation require significant judgement with respect 
to  outcomes  that  are  uncertain.  For  such  uncertainties,  the 
Group  has  estimated  its  tax  provisions  based  on  its  expected 
outcomes. 

Superannuation Obligations 

The  Group  currently  sponsors  two  defined  benefit  plans  as 
described  in  Note  1(y)  and  Note  41.  For  each  of  these  plans, 
actuarial  valuations  of  the  plan‟s  obligations  and  the  fair  value 
measurements of the plan‟s assets are performed semi-annually 
in  accordance  with  the  requirements  of  AASB  119  „Employee 
Benefits‟. 

The actuarial valuation of plan obligations is dependent upon a 
series  of  assumptions,  the  key  ones  being  price  inflation, 
discount  rates,  earnings  growth,  mortality,  morbidity  and 
investment  returns  assumptions.  Different  assumptions  could 
significantly  alter  the  amount  of  the  difference  between  plan 
assets and obligations, and the superannuation cost charged to 
the Income Statement. 

Change in accounting estimate – Discount Rate 

The Group has changed its estimate of the discount rates used 
to calculate the present value of defined benefit superannuation 
plans outlined in note 1(y) and long service leave. 

AASB 119 „Employee Benefits‟ requires entities to discount post 
employment benefit obligations (both funded and unfunded) by 
reference to market yields at the end of the reporting period on 
high  quality  corporate  bonds.  In  countries  where  there  is  no 
deep market in such bonds, the market yields (at the end of the 

Notes to the Financial Statements 

reporting  period)  on  government  bonds  shall  be  used.  The 
Group  concludes  there  is  not  currently  a  deep  market  in 
corporate bonds in Australia. 

Government  is  defined  within  the  standards  as  government, 
government agencies and similar bodies whether local, national 
or international. In light of this definition, the Group considers the 
use  of  a  blended  government  bond  index  incorporating  both 
federal  (Commonwealth)  and  state  government  bond  rates,  as 
opposed to purely Commonwealth government bond rates to be 
a better estimate of the rate.  

The  change  in  discount  rate  reduced  the  defined  benefits 
obligation  of  the  Group‟s  defined  benefit  plan  by  $369  million 
and  the  long  service  leave  provision  by  $38  million.  The 
movement  in  the  long  service  leave  provision  was  offset  by 
changes 
in  an 
insignificant change to the final provision at 30 June 2012. There 
are  no  other material impacts  on  the  Group‟s provisions  under 
AASB 119 „Employee Benefits‟. 

rate  assumptions, 

resulting 

inflation 

in 

The Group will continue to monitor the liquidity of the Australian 
high  quality  Corporate  Bond  market  in  order  that  it  may  be 
adopted as required when the appropriate depth is reached. 

Reclassification  –  Other  Banking  Income  to  Net  Interest 
Income 

The Group has reclassified amounts from Other banking income 
to  Net  interest  income  during  the  period  to  more  accurately 
reflect  the  Group‟s  net  interest  margin  and  align  with  market 
practice.  The  specific  items  reclassified  from  Other  Banking 
Income to Net Interest Income are bank bill facility fees and net 
swap  accrual  costs  for  economic  hedges  not 
in  hedge 
relationships.  Comparative information  has  been  reclassified to 
align  with  the  current  period  disclosure,  resulting  in  Other 
Banking  Income  movements  of  Group,  2011:  increase  of  $13 
million; 2010: decrease of $140 million; Bank, 2011: decrease of 
$103  million,  and  Net  interest  income  movements  of  Group, 
2011:  decrease  of  $13  million;  2010:  increase  of  $140  million; 
Bank: 2011: increase of $103 million. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

115 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 2 Profit 

Profit before income tax has been determined as follows: 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparatives have been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs from Other 
banking income (Group, 2011: increase of $13 million; 2010: decrease of $140 million; Bank, 2011: decrease of $103 million) into Net interest income (Group, 2011: 
decrease of $13 million; 2010: increase of $140 million; Bank, 2011: increase of $103 million). 

(2) Total interest income for financial assets that are not at fair value through profit or loss is $37,637 million (2011: $36,626 million, 2010: $31,679 million) for the Group 

and $34,204 million (2011: $32,404 million) for the Bank. 

(3) Total interest expense for financial liabilities that are not at fair value through profit or loss is $24,816 million (2011: $24,373 million, 2010: $19,723 million) for the 

Group and $24,308 million (2011 $23,050 million) for the Bank. 

(4) The net loss on financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value was $4 million for the Group (2011: $102 million gain) and $3 million for the Bank (2011: $77 

million gain). 

(5) Non-trading derivatives are held for risk management purposes. 

(6) The Group result in 2012 had $nil gains or losses on disposal of controlled entities (2011: $10 million loss). Refer to Note 45 for further details. 

116 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Group Bank 20122011201020122011$M $M $M $M $M Interest IncomeLoans and bills discounted (1)34,70934,37330,11226,95726,527Other financial institutions (1)10211314191108Cash and liquid assets (1)330270192275214Assets at fair value through Income Statement (1)621851785557749Available-for-sale investments (1)2,4961,8701,2345,0393,987Controlled entities---1,8421,568Total interest income (2)38,25837,47732,46434,76133,153Interest ExpenseDeposits (1)17,63316,95713,73118,15216,551Other financial institutions185222164190184Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement (1)320510679202218Debt issues (1)6,4926,6225,2885,2025,465Controlled entities---271263Loan capital506572540493587Total interest expense (3)25,13624,88320,40224,51023,268Net interest income13,12212,59412,06210,2519,885Other Operating IncomeLending fees (1)9979821,036880848Commissions1,9971,9462,0061,5321,426Trading income522717597447639Net gain on disposal of available-for-sale investments 8124278624Net gain/(loss) on other non-fair valued financial instruments2(4)(52)(8)(11)Net hedging ineffectiveness394(62)3314Net gain/(loss) on sale of property, plant and equipment39(6)(4)40(6)Net gain/(loss) on other fair valued financial instruments (1):Fair value through Income Statement (4)48(2)8182Non-trading derivatives (5)85(301)21782(348)Dividends - Controlled entities---1,5402,155Dividends - Other6553436Funds management and investment contract income:Fees receivable on trust and other fiduciary activities1,5171,6621,493--Other423380435--Insurance contracts income1,2331,1181,230--Other (6)273278290782735Total other operating income7,2626,8037,2265,4665,514Total net operating income before impairment and operating expense20,38419,39719,28815,71715,399Impairment expenseLoan impairment expense 1,0891,2802,3799881,080Total impairment expense (Note 14)1,0891,2802,3799881,080 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 2 Profit (continued) 

(1) Certain comparative information has been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

(2) The current year comprises expenses related to the Count Financial Limited acquisition. The prior year comprises expenses related to the Bankwest integration. 

(3) Merger related amortisation relates to Bankwest core deposits and customer lists. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

117 

GroupBank20122011201020122011$M$M$M$M$MStaff ExpensesSalaries and wages (1)4,1364,0153,8052,7692,716Share-based compensation18515613010396Superannuation - defined contribution plans424848(48)(33)Superannuation - defined benefit plan168137103168137Provisions for employee entitlements (1)101120906265Payroll tax213213202150153Fringe benefits tax3538402630Other staff expenses (1)67601183927Total staff expenses4,9474,7874,5363,2693,191Occupancy and Equipment ExpensesOperating lease rentals585532527443406Depreciation:Buildings3735302827Leasehold improvements107103988581Equipment7682904954Operating lease assets5042451619Repairs and maintenance9087846365Other (1)111112966871Total occupancy and equipment expenses1,056993970752723Information Technology ServicesApplication, maintenance and development (1)322324273244240Data processing241267227238266Desktop10512014190114Communications226221199194188Amortisation and impairment of software assets183183178150143IT equipment depreciation8278757063Total information technology services1,1591,1931,0939861,014Other ExpensesPostage1121121158989Stationery8584977062Fees and commissions:Fees payable on trust and other fiduciary activities563537497--Other310318367497490Advertising, marketing and loyalty459457398324320Amortisation of intangible assets (excluding software and merger related amortisation)181627--Non-lending losses81831036465Other (1)406311398233144Total other expenses2,0341,9182,0021,2771,170Total expenses9,1968,8918,6016,2846,098Investment and restructuringIntegration expenses (2)6094405415Merger related amortisation (3)757575--Total investment and restructuring1351691155415Total operating expenses9,3319,0608,7166,3386,113Profit before income tax9,9649,0578,1938,3918,206Net hedging ineffectiveness comprises:Gain/(Loss) on fair value hedges:Hedging instruments(337)(417)771(724)(391)Hedged items318427(838)702410Cash flow hedge ineffectiveness58(6)555(5)Net hedging ineffectiveness394(62)3314 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 3 Income from Ordinary Activities 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparatives have been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs from Other 
banking income (Group, 2011: increase of $13 million; 2010: decrease of $140 million; Bank, 2011: decrease of $103 million) into Net interest income (Group, 2011: 
decrease of $13 million; 2010: increase of $140 million; Bank, 2011: increase of $103 million). 

118 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

GroupBank20122011201020122011$M$M$M$M$MBankingInterest income (1)38,25837,47732,46434,76133,153Fees and commissions (1)2,9942,9283,0422,4122,274Trading income522717597447639Net gain on disposal of available-for-sale investments recognised in Income Statement8124278624Net gain/(loss) on other non-fair valued financial instruments2(4)(52)(8)(11)Net hedging ineffectiveness394(62)3314Net gain/(loss) on sale of property, plant and equipment 39(6)(4)40(6)Net gain/(loss) on other fair valued financial instruments (1):Fair value through Income Statement48(2)8182Non-trading derivatives85(301)21782(348)Dividends6551,5742,191Other27327829078273542,34741,12036,53240,22738,667Funds Management, Investment Contract and Insurance Contract RevenueFunds management and investment contract income including premiums1,9591,9961,906--Insurance contract premiums and related income2,1141,8841,794--Investment income7731,4011,662--4,8465,2815,362--Total income47,19346,40141,89440,22738,667 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 4 Average Balances and Related Interest 

 The following tables list the major categories  of interest  earning  assets  and  interest bearing liabilities  of  the  Group together  with the 
respective  interest  earned  or  paid  and  the  average  interest  rate.  Averages  used  were  predominantly  daily  averages.  Interest  is 
accounted for based on product yield. Trading gains and losses are disclosed as Trading income within Other operating income. 

Where assets or liabilities are hedged, the amounts are shown net of the hedge, however individual items not separately hedged may 
be affected by movements in exchange rates. 

The overseas component comprises overseas branches of the Bank and overseas domiciled controlled entities. 

Non-accrual loans are included in interest earning assets under Loans, bills discounted and other receivables. 

The official cash rate in Australia decreased by 125 basis points during the year while rates in New Zealand were unchanged. 

 (1) To reflect market practice, comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs 
from  Other  banking  income  into  Net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  securitisation  net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  Bank  acceptances  of  customers  and 
Securitised home loans in Interest earning assets; and the inclusion of Securitised debt issues and Bank acceptances in Interest bearing liabilities to conform with 
presentation in the current period.  

(2) Loans, bills discounted and other receivables include bank acceptances. 

(3) Excludes amortisation of acquisition related fair value adjustments made to fixed interest financial instruments. 

(4) Used for calculating net interest margin. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

119 

Group201220112010AverageInterestAverageAverageInterestAverageAverageInterestAverageInterest earning BalanceRateBalanceRateBalanceRateassets (1)$M$M%$M$M%$M$M%Cash and liquid assetsAustralia6,5812333. 54,5831944. 23,6741464. 0Overseas12,456970. 87,522761. 07,644460. 6Receivables due from other financial institutionsAustralia3,676691. 96,324500. 87,253630. 9Overseas5,321330. 68,113630. 86,645781. 2Assets at fair value through Income Statement - Trading & OtherAustralia11,3664764. 215,0287114. 715,7045973. 8Overseas6,1521452. 46,6281402. 17,1011882. 6Available-for-sale investmentsAustralia48,0732,3845. 033,3621,7765. 323,3601,1595. 0Overseas7,2371201. 75,601941. 75,485751. 4Loans, bills discounted and other receivables (2)Australia (3)475,06631,7206. 7458,02531,2956. 8443,19326,7806. 0Overseas53,7573,0245. 652,2203,1045. 957,2023,3585. 9Intragroup assetsAustralia2,138341. 62,506220. 9---Overseas------12,343200. 2Total interest earning assets and interest income including intragroup631,82338,3356. 1599,91237,5256. 3589,60432,5105. 5Intragroup eliminations(2,138)(34)1. 6(2,506)(22)0. 9(12,343)(20)0. 2Total interest earning assets and interest income (4)629,68538,3016. 1597,40637,5036. 3577,26132,4905. 6 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 4 Average Balances and Related Interest (continued) 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs 
from  Other  banking  income  into  Net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  securitisation  net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  Bank  acceptances  of  customers  and 
Securitised home loans in Interest earning assets; and the inclusion of Securitised debt issues and Bank acceptances in Interest bearing liabilities to conform with 
presentation in the current period.  

(2) Excludes amortisation of acquisition related fair value adjustments made to fixed interest financial instruments. 

(3) Debt issues includes bank acceptances. 

120 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Group 201220112010Average Average Average Balance Balance Balance Non-interest earning assets$M $M $M Assets at fair value through Income Statement - InsuranceAustralia13,22013,65615,512Overseas2,0462,0692,166Property, plant and equipmentAustralia1,9671,8541,933Overseas194181191Other assetsAustralia55,70641,66142,444Overseas8,9928,7826,152Provisions for impairmentAustralia(4,801)(5,205)(4,904)Overseas(263)(299)(338)Total non-interest earning assets77,06162,69963,156Total assets706,746660,105640,417Percentage of total assets applicable to overseas operations (%)13.613.814.4Group 201220112010Average Interest Average Average Interest Average Average Interest Average Interest bearingBalance Rate Balance Rate Balance Rate liabilities (1)$M $M % $M $M % $M $M % Time depositsAustralia (2)200,71311,1315. 5185,24310,5875. 7168,8328,6445. 1Overseas35,3781,1253. 232,7081,1273. 432,4551,1853. 7Savings depositsAustralia (2)83,6952,6213. 176,6442,4453. 272,3961,7972. 5Overseas7,4452723. 76,7722423. 67,2152042. 8Other demand depositsAustralia (2) 86,9572,4212. 882,0402,5143. 182,8671,9532. 4Overseas3,534631. 82,462421. 72,799863. 1Payables due to other financialinstitutionsAustralia4,602982. 13,9121213. 15,2961102. 1Overseas14,140870. 610,7631010. 99,448540. 6Liabilities at fair value throughIncome StatementAustralia4,3812004. 64,5262495. 53,5801504. 2Overseas5,1231202. 38,7292613. 012,4945284. 2Debt issues (3)Australia 126,4776,4505. 1127,3886,5705. 2113,7095,0794. 5Overseas7,096420. 65,534200. 418,6781450. 8Loan capitalAustralia5,7843205. 57,1303955. 59,3703293. 5Overseas5,3291943. 65,2441843. 54,6852184. 7Intragroup borrowingsAustralia------12,343200. 2Overseas2,138341. 62,506220. 9---Interest bearing liabilities and interest expense including intragroup 592,79225,1784. 2561,60124,8804. 4556,16720,5023. 7Intragroup eliminations(2,138)(34)1. 6(2,506)(22)0. 9(12,343)(20)0. 2Total interest bearing liabilities and interest expense590,65425,1444. 3559,09524,8584. 4543,82420,4823. 8 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 4 Average Balances and Related Interest (continued) 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs 
from  Other  banking  income  into  Net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  securitisation  net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  Bank  acceptances  of  customers  and 
Securitised home loans in Interest earning assets; and the inclusion of Securitised debt issues and Bank acceptances in Interest bearing liabilities to conform with 
presentation in the current period.  

Overseas intra-group borrowings have been adjusted into the interest spread and margin calculations to more appropriately reflect the 
overseas cost of funds. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

121 

Group 201220112010Average Average Average Balance Balance Balance Non-interest bearing liabilities$M $M $M Deposits not bearing interestAustralia7,3126,9896,638Overseas1,6941,5351,458Insurance policy liabilitiesAustralia12,29813,11414,432Overseas1,2681,3611,548Other liabilitiesAustralia45,89733,51732,914Overseas8,3748,4256,069Total non-interest bearing liabilities76,84364,94163,059Total liabilities667,497624,036606,883Shareholders' equity39,24936,06933,534Total liabilities and Shareholders' equity706,746660,105640,417Total liabilities applicable to overseas operations (%)13.413.416.0Group Avg Bal Interest Yield Avg Bal Interest Yield Net interest margin$M $M % $M $M % Total interest earning assets (1)629,68538,3016. 08597,40637,5036. 28Total interest bearing liabilities (1)590,65425,1444. 26559,09524,8584. 45Net interest income and interest spread13,1571. 8212,6451. 83Benefit of free funds0. 270. 29Net interest margin2. 092. 1220122011Group Avg Bal Interest Yield Avg Bal Interest Yield Geographical analysis of key categories (1)$M $M % $M $M % Loans, bills discounted and other receivablesAustralia475,06631,7206. 68458,02531,2956. 83Overseas53,7573,0245. 6352,2203,1045. 94Total528,82334,7446. 57510,24534,3996. 74Other interest earning assetsAustralia69,6963,1624. 5459,2972,7314. 61Overseas31,1663951. 2727,8643731. 34Total100,8623,5573. 5387,1613,1043. 56Total interest bearing depositsAustralia371,36516,1734. 36343,92715,5464. 52Overseas 46,3571,4603. 1541,9421,4113. 36Total417,72217,6334. 22385,86916,9574. 39Other interest bearing liabilitiesAustralia 141,2447,0685. 00142,9567,3355. 13Overseas 31,6884431. 4030,2705661. 87Total172,9327,5114. 34173,2267,9014. 5620122011 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 4 Average Balances and Related Interest (continued) 

Changes in Net Interest Income: Volume and Rate Analysis 

The  following  tables  show  the  movement  in  interest  income  and  expense  due  to  changes  in  volume  and  interest  rates.  Volume 
variances reflect the change in interest from the prior year due to movement in the average balance. Rate variance reflects the change 
in interest from the prior year due to changes in interest rates. 

Volume and rate variance for total interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities have been calculated separately (rather than 
being the sum of the individual categories). 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs 
from  Other  banking  income  into  Net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  securitisation  net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  Bank  acceptances  of  customers  and 
Securitised home loans in Interest earning assets; and the inclusion of Securitised debt issues and Bank acceptances in Interest bearing liabilities to conform with 
presentation in the current period.  

122 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

GroupJune 2012June 2011vs June 2011vs June 2010Change in net interest income (1)$M$MDue to changes in average volume of interest earning assets679422Due to changes in interest margin(167)215Change in net interest income512637 
 
 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 4 Average Balances and Related Interest (continued) 

 (1) To reflect market practice, comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs 
from  Other  banking  income  into  Net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  securitisation  net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  Bank  acceptances  of  customers  and 
Securitised home loans in Interest earning assets; and the inclusion of Securitised debt issues and Bank acceptances in Interest bearing liabilities to conform with 
presentation in the current period.  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

123 

June 2012 vs June 2011 June 2011 vs June 2010 Changes in net interest income:Volume Rate Total Volume Rate Total Volume and rate analysis$M $M $M $M $M $M Interest Earning Assets (1)Cash and liquid assetsAustralia78(39)39371148Overseas44(23)21(1)3130Receivables due from other financial institutionsAustralia(36)5519(8)(5)(13)Overseas(19)(11)(30)14(29)(15)Assets at fair value through Income Statement - Trading & OtherAustralia(163)(72)(235)(29)143114Overseas(11)165(11)(37)(48)Available-for-sale investmentsAustralia756(148)608515102617Overseas29(3)2611819Loans, bills discounted and other receivablesAustralia 1,151(726)4259553,5604,515Overseas 89(169)(80)(294)40(254)Intragroup loansAustralia(4)1612111122Overseas---(10)(10)(20)Changes in interest income including intragroup1,968(1,158)8106074,4085,015Intragroup eliminations4(16)(12)(1)(1)(2)Changes in interest income1,997(1,199)7981,1993,8145,013Interest Bearing Liabilities and Loan Capital (1)Time depositsAustralia871(327)5448881,0551,943Overseas88(90)(2)9(67)(58)Savings depositsAustralia222(46)176120528648Overseas24630(14)5238Other demand depositsAustralia144(237)(93)(22)583561Overseas19221(7)(37)(44)Payables due to other financial institutionsAustralia18(41)(23)(36)4711Overseas26(40)(14)103747Liabilities at fair value through Income StatementAustralia(7)(42)(49)465399Overseas(97)(44)(141)(135)(132)(267)Debt issuesAustralia (47)(73)(120)6588331,491Overseas 81422(75)(50)(125)Loan capitalAustralia (74)(1)(75)(101)16766Overseas371022(56)(34)Intragroup borrowingsAustralia---(10)(10)(20)Overseas(4)1612111122Changes in interest expense including intragroup1,354(1,056)2982214,1574,378Intragroup eliminations4(16)(12)(1)(1)(2)Changes in interest expense1,374(1,088)2866263,7504,376Changes in net interest income679(167)512422215637 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 4 Average Balances and Related Interest (continued) 

(1) To reflect market practice, comparative information has been restated for the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income and IFRS reclassification of net swap costs 
from  Other  banking  income  into  Net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  securitisation  net  interest  income;  the  inclusion  of  Bank  acceptances  of  customers  and 
Securitised home loans in Interest earning assets; and the inclusion of Securitised debt issues and Bank acceptances in Interest bearing liabilities to conform with 
presentation in the current period.  

(2) Difference between the average interest rate earned and the average interest rate paid on funds. 

(3) A portion of the Group‟s interest earning assets are funded by net interest free liabilities and Shareholders‟ equity. The benefit to the Group of these interest free funds 

is the amount it would cost to replace them at the average cost of funds. 

(4) Net interest income divided by average interest earning assets for the year. 

124 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Group 201220112010Geographical analysis of key categories (1)% % % AustraliaInterest spread (2)1. 851. 861. 97Benefit of interest-free liabilities, provisions and equity (3)0. 280. 300. 19Net interest margin (3)2. 132. 162. 16OverseasInterest spread (2)1. 541. 521. 14Benefit of interest-free liabilities, provisions and equity (3)0. 250. 250. 25Net interest margin (3)1. 791. 771. 39GroupInterest spread (2)1. 821. 831. 86Benefit of interest-free liabilities, provisions and equity (3)0. 270. 290. 22Net interest margin (4)2. 092. 122. 08 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 5 Income Tax 
The income tax expense for the year is determined from the profit before income tax as follows: 

(1) The New Zealand corporate tax rate was reduced from 30% to 28% for tax years starting on or after 1 April 2011. This change is effective for the Group from 1 July 

2011. 

(2) The year ended 30 June 2010 includes the impact of the tax on New Zealand structured finance transactions of $171 million. 

(3) Comparative effective tax rates have been adjusted for the allocation of capital charges from the Corporate Centre to Bankwest for the year ended 30 June 2010. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

125 

GroupBank20122011201020122011$M$M$M$M$MProfit before Income Tax9,9649,0578,1938,3918,206Prima facie income tax at 30%2,9892,7172,4582,5172,462Effect of amounts which are non-deductible/(assessable) in calculating taxable income:Taxation offsets and other dividend adjustments(3)(7)(18)(462)(646)Tax adjustment on policyholder income8611691--Tax losses not previously brought to account(28)(6)(4)(23)(2)Tax losses assumed by the Bank under UIG 1052---(12)(29)Offshore tax rate differential(83)(55)(66)(3)(6)Offshore banking unit(36)(17)(32)(36)(17)Investment allowance-(2)(57)--Effect of changes in tax rates (1)-3(12)-1Income tax under/(over) provided in previous years (2)22(71)16412(47)Other(89)(31)(11)(63)10Total income tax expense2,8582,6472,5131,9301,726Corporate tax expense2,7362,4812,3831,9301,726Policyholder tax expense122166130--Total income tax expense2,8582,6472,5131,9301,726Group Bank Income tax expense attributable to 20122011201020122011profit from ordinary activities$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaCurrent tax expense2,4872,2461,9031,9191,684Deferred tax expense/(benefit)(30)59150(36)5Total Australia2,4572,3052,0531,8831,689OverseasCurrent tax expense3193364352640Deferred tax expense/(benefit)8262521(3)Total overseas4013424604737Total income tax expense2,8582,6472,5131,9301,726Group Bank 20122011201020122011Effective Tax Rate% % % % % Total – corporate (2)27. 827. 929. 623. 021. 0Retail Banking Services – corporate29. 729. 730. 1n/an/aBusiness and Private Banking – corporate30. 128. 628. 8n/an/aInstitutional Banking and Markets – corporate21. 023. 722. 4n/an/aWealth Management – corporate27. 328. 128. 0n/an/aNew Zealand – corporate (1) (2)25. 424. 056. 9n/an/aBankwest – corporate (3)33. 134. 722. 5n/an/a 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 5 Income Tax (continued) 

 (1) The following amounts are expected to be recovered within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date: for the Group $1,255 million (2011: $1,268 million); for the Bank 

$843 million (2011: $887 million). 

(2) Deferred tax assets and liabilities are set off where they relate to income tax levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable 

entities within the same taxable group. 

(3) The following amounts are expected to be recovered within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date: for the Group $427 million (2011: $284 million); for the Bank 

$260 million (2011: $103 million). 

126 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

GroupBank20122011201020122011$M$M$M$M$MDeferred tax asset balances comprise temporary differences attributable to:Amounts recognised in the Income Statement:Provision for employee benefits381375364326322Provisions for impairment on loans, bills discounted and other receivables1,2641,3871,476804823Other provisions not tax deductible until expense incurred1922021939287Recognised value of tax losses carried forward113-1Financial instruments1015259412Other212183291139130Total amount recognised in the Income Statement2,0602,1632,5861,3651,375Amounts recognised directly in other comprehensive income:Asset revaluation reserve2--2-Foreign currency translation reserve3-3--Cash flow hedge reserve7222421225216Employee compensation reserve-1112-11Avaliable-for-sale investments reserve364382Total amount recognised directly in other comprehensive income11323923035229Total deferred tax assets (before set off) (1)2,1732,4022,8161,4001,604Set off of tax (2)(1,193)(1,102)(1,546)(501)(492)Net deferred tax assets9801,3001,2708991,112Deferred tax liability balances comprise temporary differences attributable to:Amounts recognised in the Income Statement:Impact of TOFA adoption930-930Lease financing365370347181167Defined benefit superannuation plan deficit(141)(93)(51)(141)(93)Intangible assets127134145--Financial instruments168776393615Other5645723717185Total amount recognised in the Income Statement1,0921,0901,451156204Amounts recognised directly in other comprehensive income:Revaluation of properties7970736155Foreign currency translation reserve-14---Cash flow hedge reserve30221552456Defined benefit superannuation plan surplus3411613534116Avaliable-for-sale investments reserve2492535111Total amount recognised directly in other comprehensive income439313316345288Total deferred tax liabilities (before set off) (3)1,5311,4031,767501492Set off of tax (2)(1,193)(1,102)(1,546)(501)(492)Net deferred tax liabilities (Note 21)338301221--Deferred tax assets opening balance:1,3001,2701,6531,1121,242Movement in temporary differences during the year:Provisions for employee benefits6112649Provisions for impairment on loans, bills discounted and other receivables(123)(89)140(19)10Other provisions not tax deductible until expense incurred(10)9(50)5(22)Recognised value of tax losses carried forward-(2)(3)(1)(2)Financial instruments(121)(234)(214)(193)(187)Asset revaluation reserve2--2-Other17(109)(122)(2)(66)Set off of tax (2)(91)444(160)(9)128Deferred tax assets closing balance9801,3001,2708991,112 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 5 Income Tax (continued) 

(1) Deferred tax assets and liabilities are set off where they relate to income tax levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable 

entities within the same taxable group. 

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

Unrecognised deferred tax assets 

Potential deferred tax assets of the Group arose from: 

 

Tax losses and temporary differences in offshore centres.  

These deferred assets have not been recognised because it is not considered probable that future taxable profit will be available against 
which they can be realised. 

These potential tax benefits will only be obtained if:  

 

 
 

Future capital gains and assessable income of a nature and of an amount sufficient to enable the benefit from the losses to be 
realised is derived; 

Compliance with the conditions for claiming capital losses and deductions imposed by tax legislation is continued; and 
No changes in tax legislation adversely affect the Group in realising the benefit from deductions for the losses. 

Tax Consolidation 

Tax  consolidation  legislation  has  been  enacted  to  allow  Australian  resident  entities  to  elect  to  consolidate  and  be  treated  as  single 
entities for Australian tax purposes. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia elected to be taxed as a single entity with effect from 1 July 
2002. 

The Bank has recognised a tax consolidation contribution to the wholly-owned tax consolidated entity of $87 million (2011: $84 million). 

The Bank is the head entity of the tax consolidated group and has entered into tax funding and tax sharing agreements with its eligible 
Australian resident subsidiaries. The terms and conditions of these agreements are set out in note 1(x). The amount receivable by the 
Bank under the tax funding agreement was $261 million as at 30 June 2012 (2011: $281 million receivable). This balance is included in 
„Other assets‟ in the Bank‟s separate Balance Sheet. 

Taxation of Financial Arrangements (TOFA) 

The new tax regime for financial instruments TOFA began to apply to the Tax Consolidated Group from 1 July 2010. The regime allows 
a closer alignment of the tax and accounting recognition and measurement of financial arrangements and their related flows. Following 
adoption, deferred tax balances from financial arrangements progressively reverse over a four year period. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

127 

Group Bank 20122011201020122011$M $M $M $M $M Deferred tax liabilities opening balance:301221168--Movement in temporary differences during the year:Impact of TOFA adoption(21)30-(21)30Property asset revaluations9(3)106(2)Lease financing(5)23481423Defined benefit superannuation plan surplus/(deficit)(130)(61)(54)(130)(61)Intangible assets(7)(11)(31)--Financial instruments290(543)142154(153)Other(8)20198(14)35Set off of tax (1)(91)444(160)(9)128Deferred tax liabilities closing balance (Note 21)338301221--Group Bank 20122011201020122011Deferred tax assets not taken to account$M $M $M $M $M Tax losses and other temporary differences on revenue account711011105785Tax losses on capital account-4014-17Total7114112457102Group Bank  Expiration of deferred tax assets not taken20122011201020122011 to account$M $M $M $M $M At Balance Sheet date carry-forward losses expired as follows:From one to two years6----From two to four years20182122After four years45831084583Losses that do not expire under current tax legislation-4014-17Total7114112457102 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 6 Dividends 

  (1) The 2012 final dividend will be satisfied by cash disbursements and the issue of ordinary shares through  the Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP). The 2011 final 
dividend  was  satisfied  by  cash  disbursements  of  $2,099  million  and  the  issue  of  $831  million  of  ordinary  shares  through  the  DRP.  The  2010  final  dividend  was 
satisfied by cash disbursements of $2,633 million including the on market purchase and transfer of $679 million of shares to participating shareholders under the 
DRP.  

Dividend Franking Account  

After fully franking the final dividend to be paid for the year, the amount of credits available, at the 30% tax rate as at 30 June 2012 to 
frank dividends for subsequent financial years, is $390 million (2011: $510 million). This figure is based on the franking accounts of the 
Bank  at  30  June  2012,  adjusted  for  franking  credits  that  will  arise  from  the  payment  of  income  tax  payable  on  profits  for  the  year, 
franking  debits  that  will  arise  from  the  payment  of  dividends  proposed,  and  franking  credits  that  the  Bank  may  be  prevented  from 
distributing in subsequent financial periods. 

The Bank expects that future tax payments will generate sufficient franking credits for the Bank to be able to continue to fully frank future 
dividend payments. These calculations have been based on the taxation law as at 30 June 2012. 

Dividend History 

(1) Dividend Payout Ratio: dividends divided by statutory earnings. 

(2) DRP Participation Rate: the percentage of total issued share capital participating in the DRP. 

(3) Dividend expected to be paid on 5 October 2012. 

128 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Group Bank 20122011201020122011$M $M $M $M $M Ordinary SharesInterim ordinary dividend (fully franked) (2012: 137 cents; 2011: 132 cents, 2010: 120 cents)Interim ordinary dividend paid - cash component only1,6351,5321,0671,6351,532Interim ordinary dividend paid - dividend reinvestment plan531513774531513Total dividend paid2,1662,0451,8412,1662,045Other Equity InstrumentsDividend paid424247--Total dividend provided for, reserved or paid2,2082,0871,8882,1662,045Other provision carried5237295237Dividend proposed and not recognised as a liability (fully franked) (2012: 197 cents, 2011: 188 cents, 2010: 170 cents) (1)3,1372,9302,6333,1372,930Provision for dividendsOpening balance3729183729Provision made during the year5,1134,6783,5885,1134,678Provision used during the year(5,098)(4,670)(3,577)(5,098)(4,670)Closing balance (Note 22)5237295237Half-year Full Year DRP Payout Payout DRP Participation Cents Per  Ratio (1) Ratio (1)Price  Rate (2)Half year endedShare Date Paid % % $ % 31 December 2009120          01/04/201063.7-53.5642.030 June 2010170          01/10/201096.679.751.7525.831 December 2010132          01/04/201167.5-52.9225.130 June 201118806/10/201188.278.347.4828.431 December 201113705/04/201260.1-48.8124.530 June 2012 (3)19705/10/201291.175.2-- 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 7 Earnings Per Share 

Basic earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing the net profit for the year attributable to ordinary equity holders of the Bank 
by the weighted average number of ordinary shares on issue during the year, excluding the number of ordinary shares purchased and 
held as treasury shares. 

Diluted  earnings  per  share  amounts  are  calculated  by  dividing  net  profit  attributable  to  ordinary  equity  holders  of  the  Bank  (after 
deducting interest on the convertible redeemable loan capital instruments) by the weighted average number of ordinary shares issued 
during the year (adjusted for the effects of dilutive options and dilutive convertible non-cumulative redeemable loan capital instruments). 

Note 8 Cash and Liquid Assets 

Note 9 Receivables Due from Other Financial Institutions 

(1) Required by law for the Group to operate in certain regions. 

The majority of the above amounts are expected to be recovered within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

129 

Group 201220112010Earnings per ordinary shareBasic 448.9411.2367.9Fully diluted432.9395.1354.2Cents per shareGroup 201220112010Reconciliation of earnings used in calculation of earnings per share$M $M $M Profit after income tax7,1066,4105,680Less: Other equity instrument dividends(42)(42)(47)Less: Non-controlling interests(16)(16)(16)Earnings used in calculation of basic earnings per share7,0486,3525,617Add: Profit impact of assumed conversions of loan capital199235190Earnings used in calculation of fully diluted earnings per share7,2476,5875,807Number of Shares 201220112010M M M Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in the calculationof basic earnings per share1,5701,5451,527Effect of dilutive securities - executive share plans and convertible loan capital instruments104123113Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in the calculation of fully diluted earnings per share1,6741,6681,640Group Bank 2012201120122011$M $M $M $M Notes, coins and cash at banks8,5085,4247,1614,103Money at short call3,6961,1053,603967Securities purchased under agreements to resell7,0636,5167,0065,899Bills received and remittances in transit39919618210Total cash and liquid assets19,66613,24117,95210,979GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MPlacements with and loans to other financial institutions10,75510,27710,46710,107Deposits with regulatory authorities (1)1311161516Total receivables from other financial institutions10,88610,39310,48210,123 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 10 Assets at Fair Value through Income Statement 

 (1) In addition to the assets above, the Group also measures bills discounted that are intended to be sold into the market at fair value. These are classified within Loans, 

bills discounted and other receivables (refer to Note 13). 

The above amounts are expected to be recovered within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date. 

Of  the  above  amounts,  $1,717  million  is  expected  to  be  recovered  within  twelve  months  of  the  Balance  Sheet  date  (2011:  $1,876 
million). 

Direct investments refer to positions held directly in the issuer of the investment. Indirect investments refer to investments that are held 
through unit trusts or similar investment vehicles. 

Investments held in the Australian statutory funds may only be used within the restrictions imposed under the Life Insurance Act 1995. 
Refer to note 1(ff) for further details. 

(1) Designated at Fair Value through Income Statement at inception as they are managed by the Group on a fair value basis or to eliminate an accounting mismatch. 

130 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

GroupBank2012201120122011$M $M $M $M Trading13,81620,46912,07117,765Insurance 14,52514,998--Other financial assets designated at fair value980824980300Total assets at fair value through Income Statement (1)29,32136,29113,05118,065GroupBank2012201120122011Trading$M $M $M $M Government bonds, notes and securities8,49113,9218,14612,899Corporate/financial institution bonds, notes and securities4,6775,5963,2983,923Shares and equity investments502859502860Other bonds, notes and securities1469312583Total trading assets13,81620,46912,07117,765Investments Investments Investments Investments Backing Life Backing Life Backing Life Backing Life Risk Investment Risk Investment Contracts Contracts Total Contracts Contracts Total 201220122012201120112011Insurance $M $M $M $M $M $M Equity Security Investments:Direct4627201,1823877451,132Indirect5962,9103,5066293,4034,032Total equity security investments1,0583,6304,6881,0164,1485,164Debt Security Investments:Direct7536111,3646886301,318Indirect2,1924,2256,4172,0114,4966,507Total debt security investments2,9454,8367,7812,6995,1267,825Property Investments:Direct3319522839129168Indirect276472748288531819Total property investments309667976327660987Other Assets1888921,0801388841,022Total life insurance investment assets4,50010,02514,5254,18010,81814,998GroupBank2012201120122011Other (1)$M $M $M $M Government securities980300980300Receivables due from financial institutions-465--Term loans-59--Total other assets at fair value through Income Statement980824980300 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 10 Assets at Fair Value through Income Statement (continued) 

 Of the amounts in the preceding table, $882 million is expected to be recovered within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date by the 
Group (2011: $524 million). All amounts are expected to be recovered after twelve months of the Balance Sheet date by the Bank. 

The change in fair value of loans and receivables designated at Fair Value through Income Statement due to changes in credit risk  
resulted in no gain or loss for the Group for the year (2011: $1 million gain). It also resulted in no gain or loss for the Bank (2011: $nil). 
The  cumulative  net  gain  or  loss  attributable  to  changes  in  credit  risk  for  loans  and  receivables  designated  at  fair  value  since  initial 
recognition for the Group and the Bank for the year ending 30 June 2012 is $nil (2011: $nil). These values have been calculated by 
determining the changes in credit spread implicit in the fair value of the instrument. 

The  maximum  exposure  to  credit  risk  of  loans  and  receivables  designated  at  Fair  Value  through  Income  Statement  is  equal  to  the 
carrying value. 

Note 11 Derivative Financial Instruments 

Derivative Contracts 

Derivatives are classified as “Held for Trading”, “Held for Hedging”, or “Other”. Held for Trading derivatives are contracts entered into in 
order to meet customers‟ needs, or to undertake market making and positioning activities. Held for Hedging derivatives are instruments 
held for risk management purposes which meet the criteria for hedge accounting. Derivatives entered into as economic hedges that do 
not qualify for hedge accounting are classified as Other. 

Derivatives Transacted for Hedging Purposes 

There are three types of allowable hedging relationships: fair value hedges, cash flow hedges and hedges of a net investment  in a 
foreign operation. For details on the accounting treatment of each type of hedging relationship refer to Note 1(dd). 

Fair Value Hedges 

Fair value hedges are used by the Group to manage exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability or unrecognised firm 
commitment. Changes in fair values can arise from fluctuations in interest or foreign exchange rates. The Group principally uses interest 
rate swaps, cross currency swaps and futures to protect against such fluctuations. 

All  gains  and  losses  associated  with  the  ineffective  portion  of  fair  value  hedge  relationships  are  recognised  immediately  as  „Other 
operating income‟ in the Income Statement. Ineffectiveness recognised in the Income Statement in the current year amounted to a $19 
million net loss for the Group (2011: $10 million net gain) and $22 million net loss for the Bank (2011: $19 million net gain). 

Cash Flow Hedges 

Cash flow hedges are used by the Group to manage exposure to volatility in future cash flows which may result from fluctuations in 
interest or exchange rates on financial assets, liabilities or highly probable forecast transactions. The Group principally uses interest rate 
and cross currency swaps to protect against such fluctuations. Ineffectiveness recognised in the Income Statement in the current year 
amounted to a $58 million gain for the Group (2011: $6 million loss) and $55 million gain for the Bank (2011: $5 million loss). 

Amounts accumulated in Other Comprehensive Income in respect of cash flow hedges are recycled to the Income Statement when the 
forecast transaction occurs. Underlying cash flows from cash flow hedges are discounted to calculate deferred gains and losses which 
are expected to occur in the following periods: 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

131 

Exchange Rate Interest Rate Group Related Contracts Related Contracts Total 201220112012201120122011$M $M $M $M $M $M 6 months(22)(13)18(13)(4)(26)6 months - 1 year6(6)(82)(92)(76)(98)1 - 2 years(13)(12)(36)(189)(49)(201)2 - 5 years(89)(156)1,3861911,29735After 5 years(25)(229)(217)(43)(242)(272)Net deferred (losses)/gains(143)(416)1,069(146)926(562)Exchange Rate Interest Rate Bank Related Contracts Related Contracts Total 201220112012201120122011$M $M $M $M $M $M 6 months1-17(1)18(1)6 months - 1 year6(6)(77)(36)(71)(42)1 - 2 years(3)(12)(18)(139)(21)(151)2 - 5 years(102)(154)1,2471271,145(27)After 5 years(54)(238)(171)(84)(225)(322)Net deferred (losses)/gains(152)(410)998(133)846(543) 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 11 Derivative Financial Instruments (continued) 

Net Investment Hedges 

The  Group  uses  foreign  exchange  forward  transactions  to  minimise  its  exposure  to  the  currency  translation  risk  of  certain  net 
investments in foreign operations. 

In the current and prior year, there have been no material gains or losses as a result of ineffective net investment hedges. 

The fair value of derivative financial instruments are set out in the following tables: 

Derivative assets and liabilities held for trading are expected to be recovered or due to be settled within twelve months of the Balance 
Sheet date. 

132 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Group20122011Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair ValueAssetLiabilityAssetLiabilityDerivative assets and liabilities$M$M$M$MHeld for trading33,029(30,182)27,315(25,337)Held for hedging5,816(8,980)2,864(8,347)Other derivatives92(59)138(292)Total derivative assets/(liabilities)38,937(39,221)30,317(33,976)Group20122011Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair ValueAssetLiabilityAssetLiabilityDerivatives held for trading$M$M$M$MExchange rate related contracts:Forward contracts3,692(4,174)5,178(6,423)Swaps10,025(8,479)12,818(10,386)Futures1-1-Options purchased and sold390(453)684(966)Total exchange rate related contracts14,108(13,106)18,681(17,775)Interest rate related contracts:Forward contracts11(11)7(6)Swaps17,795(16,250)7,985(7,051)Futures-(1)2(2)Options purchased and sold899(631)350(301)Total interest rate related contracts18,705(16,893)8,344(7,360)Credit related contracts:Swaps58(56)47(49)Total credit related contracts58(56)47(49)Equity related contracts:Options purchased and sold60(44)15(55)Total equity related contracts60(44)15(55)Commodity related contracts:Swaps85(72)200(74)Futures--1-Options purchased and sold13(11)27(24)Total commodity related contracts98(83)228(98)Total derivative assets/(liabilities) held for trading33,029(30,182)27,315(25,337) 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 11 Derivative Financial Instruments (continued) 

The majority of derivative assets and liabilities held for hedging are expected to be recovered or due to be settled more than twelve 
months after the Balance Sheet date. 

(1) Certain comparative information has been restated to conform to presentation in the current period. 

The majority of other derivative assets and liabilities are expected to be recovered or due to be settled within twelve months of the 
Balance Sheet date. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

133 

Group20122011Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair ValueAssetLiabilityAssetLiabilityDerivatives held for hedging$M$M$M$MFair value hedgesExchange rate related contracts:Forward contracts2-1-Swaps (1)1,518(2,922)1,355(3,874)Total exchange rate related contracts1,520(2,922)1,356(3,874)Interest rate related contracts:Swaps811(2,351)458(552)Futures---(5)Options purchased and sold3---Total interest rate related contracts814(2,351)458(557)Equity related contracts:Swaps58(4)53(8)Total equity related contracts58(4)53(8)Total fair value hedges2,392(5,277)1,867(4,439)Cash flow hedgesExchange rate related contracts:Swaps (1)260(1,873)105(2,844)Total exchange rate related contracts260(1,873)105(2,844)Interest rate related contracts:Swaps3,164(1,826)892(1,060)Total interest rate related contracts3,164(1,826)892(1,060)Total cash flow hedges3,424(3,699)997(3,904)Net investment hedgesExchange rate related contracts:Forward contracts-(4)-(4)Total exchange rate related contracts-(4)-(4)Total net investment hedges-(4)-(4)Total derivative assets/(liabilities) held for hedging5,816(8,980)2,864(8,347)Group20122011Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair ValueAssetLiabilityAssetLiabilityOther derivatives$M$M$M$MExchange rate related contracts:Forward contracts17(7)5(45)Swaps (1)26(7)57(164)Total exchange rate related contracts43(14)62(209)Interest rate related contracts:Forward contracts1---Swaps33(34)59(71)Options purchased and sold-(5)-(5)Total interest rate related contracts34(39)59(76)Identified embedded derivatives15(6)17(7)Total other derivatives92(59)138(292) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 11 Derivative Financial Instruments (continued) 

Derivative assets and liabilities held for trading are expected to be recovered or due to be settled within twelve months of the Balance 
Sheet date. 

134 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Bank20122011Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair ValueAssetLiabilityAssetLiabilityDerivative assets and liabilities$M$M$M$MHeld for trading33,844(30,502)28,036(24,928)Held for hedging5,211(8,712)2,687(7,864)Other derivatives6(12)8(25)Total derivative assets/(liabilities)39,061(39,226)30,731(32,817)Bank 20122011Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair ValueAssetLiabilityAssetLiabilityDerivatives held for trading$M$M$M$MExchange rate related contracts:Forward contracts3,670(4,153)5,154(6,402)Swaps10,144(8,302)12,756(10,135)Futures1-1-Options purchased and sold389(451)684(966)Derivatives held with controlled entities998(706)1,405(482)Total exchange rate related contracts15,202(13,612)20,000(17,985)Interest rate related contracts:Forward contracts10(11)6(6)Swaps17,079(15,338)7,181(6,194)Futures-(1)1-Options purchased and sold898(625)349(298)Derivatives held with controlled entities438(732)210(244)Total interest rate related contracts18,425(16,707)7,747(6,742)Credit related contracts:Swaps58(56)46(49)Total credit related contracts58(56)46(49)Equity related contracts:Options purchased and sold60(44)15(55)Total equity related contracts60(44)15(55)Commodity related contracts:Swaps85(72)200(74)Futures--1-Options purchased and sold13(11)27(22)Derivatives held with controlled entities1--(1)Total commodity related contracts99(83)228(97)Total derivative assets/(liabilities) held for trading33,844(30,502)28,036(24,928) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 11 Derivative Financial Instruments (continued) 

The majority of derivative assets and liabilities held for hedging are expected to be recovered or due to be settled more than twelve 
months after the Balance Sheet date. 

The majority  of other  derivative assets  and  liabilities  are  expected to be  recovered  or  due to be settled within twelve months of  the 
Balance Sheet date. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

135 

Bank20122011Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair ValueAssetLiabilityAssetLiabilityDerivatives held for hedging$M$M$M$MFair value hedgesExchange rate related contracts:Forward contracts2-1-Swaps1,331(2,916)1,338(3,874)Derivatives held with controlled entities3---Total exchange rate related contracts1,336(2,916)1,339(3,874)Interest rate related contracts:Swaps483(2,247)246(486)Futures---(5)Derivatives held with controlled entities92(113)71-Total interest rate related contracts575(2,360)317(491)Equity related contracts:Swaps58(4)53(8)Total equity related contracts58(4)53(8)Total fair value hedges1,969(5,280)1,709(4,373)Cash flow hedgesExchange rate related contracts:Swaps253(1,783)105(2,680)Derivatives held with controlled entities90(7)123(9)Total exchange rate related contracts343(1,790)228(2,689)Interest rate related contracts:Swaps2,857(1,642)739(802)Derivatives held with controlled entities42-11-Total interest rate related contracts2,899(1,642)750(802)Total cash flow hedges3,242(3,432)978(3,491)Total derivative assets/(liabilities) held for hedging5,211(8,712)2,687(7,864)Bank20122011Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair ValueAssetLiabilityAssetLiabilityOther derivatives$M$M$M$MInterest rate related contracts:Swaps3(2)1(13)Options purchased and sold-(5)-(5)Derivatives held with controlled entities1-2-Total interest rate related contracts4(7)3(18)Identified embedded derivatives2(5)5(7)Total other derivatives6(12)8(25) 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 12 Available-for-Sale Investments 

 (1) Supranational, Sovereign and Agency Securities (SSA). 

The following amounts are expected to be recovered within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date: for Group $19,160 million (2011: 
$12,499 million); for Bank $12,009 million (2011: $9,132 million). 

Revaluation of Available-for-sale investments resulted in a loss of $349 million for the Group (2011: $124 million gain) and a loss of 
$315 million for the Bank (2011: $264 million gain) recognised directly in other comprehensive income. As a result of sale, derecognition 
or  impairment  during  the  year  of  Available-for-sale  investments  the  following  amounts  were  removed  from  equity  and  reported  in 
Income Statement for the year; Group: $81 million net gain (2011: $24 million), Bank: $86 million net gain (2011: $24 million). 

Proceeds received from settlement at or close to maturity of Available-for-sale investments for the Group were $50,490 million (2011: 
$45,417 million) and for the Bank were $46,417 million (2011: $34,718 million). 

Proceeds from sale of Available-for-sale investments for the Group were $12,375 million (2011: $4,440 million) and for the Bank were 
$12,326 million (2011: $3,919 million). 

Maturity Distribution and Weighted Average Yield 

136 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MGovernment bonds, notes and securities27,77015,94423,28412,969Corporate/financial institution bonds, notes and securities22,87520,49517,70116,036Shares and equity investments471456368359Covered bonds, mortgage backed securities & SSA (1)9,7038,14478,68746,331Other securities813274Total available-for-sale investments60,82745,171120,04775,699Group  Maturity Period at 30 June 2012 10Non-0 to 3 months3 to 12 months1 to 5 years5 to 10 yearsor more yearsMaturingTotal$M%$M%$M%$M%$M%$M$MGovernment bonds, notes and securities4,5731.553,1242.864,6065.199,8335.385,6345.29-27,770Corporate/financial institution bonds, notes and securities6,7113.974,7984.4811,3664.92-----22,875Shares and equity investments--40.0160.01----461471Covered bonds, mortgage backed securities & SSA----4,4784.911,2484.983,9775.10-9,703Other securities----------88Total available-for-sale investments11,284-7,926-20,456-11,081-9,611-46960,827Group Maturity Period at 30 June 2011 10Non-0 to 3 months3 to 12 months1 to 5 years5 to 10 yearsor more yearsMaturingTotal$M%$M%$M%$M%$M%$M$MGovernment bonds, notes and securities2,3860.941,8661.945,5684.964,8925.791,2326.07-15,944Corporate/financial institution bonds, notes and securities3,7864.314,2305.0612,2746.162057.47---20,495Shares and equity investments----100.01----446456Covered bonds, mortgage backed securities & SSA926.321046.004,0915.771,7186.342,1395.33-8,144Other securities120.84250.06860.11----9132Total available-for-sale investments6,276-6,225-22,029-6,815-3,371-45545,171 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 13 Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables 

 (1) Home loans balance includes residential mortgages that have been assigned to securitisation vehicles and covered bond trusts. Further detail on these residential 

mortgages is disclosed in Note 47. 

(2) The Group measures bills discounted intended to be sold into the market at fair value and includes these within loans, bills discounted and other receivables to reflect 

the nature of the lending arrangement. 

The following amounts, based on behavioural terms and current market conditions, are expected to be recovered within twelve months 
of the Balance Sheet date for Group $181,465 million (2011: $180,038 million) and for Bank $127,327 million (2011: $128,375 million). 

Finance Lease Receivables 

The Group and the Bank provide finance leases to a broad range of clients to support financing needs in acquiring movable assets 
such as trains, aircraft, ships and major production and manufacturing equipment.  

Finance lease receivables are included within loans, bills discounted and other receivables to customers. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012     137 

GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MAustraliaOverdrafts21,49721,93020,49420,892Home loans (1)320,570306,250268,910259,685Credit card outstandings11,14910,7989,8739,495Lease financing4,2504,4042,8832,633Bills discounted (2)16,77714,82016,77714,820Term loans102,25096,09781,79575,509Other lending6251,310209777Other securities74--Total Australia477,125455,613400,941383,811OverseasOverdrafts891629154-Home loans (1)30,06329,591409374Credit card outstandings603572--Lease financing478468141100Term loans23,22020,4689,8858,119Total overseas55,25551,72810,5898,593Gross loans, bills discounted and other receivables532,380507,341411,530392,404LessProvisions for Loan Impairment (Note 14):Collective provision(2,819)(3,022)(1,971)(1,905)Individually assessed provisions (2,008)(2,125)(1,011)(1,081)Unearned income:Term loans(1,032)(1,153)(1,001)(1,088)Lease financing(839)(984)(425)(442)(6,698)(7,284)(4,408)(4,516)Net loans, bills discounted and other receivables525,682500,057407,122387,888Group Bank 2012201120122011Finance Leases$M $M $M $M Minimum lease payments receivable:Not later than one year1,2351,389829830Later than one year but not later than five years2,5922,5161,8771,574Later than five years901967318329Total finance leases4,7284,8723,0242,733 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 13 Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables (continued) 

Finance Lease Receivables (continued) 

(1) The industry split above has been prepared on an industry exposure basis. 

138 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group 20122011Gross Present value Gross Present value investment in of minimum investment in of minimum finance lease Unearned lease payment finance lease Unearned lease payment receivable income receivable receivable income receivable $M $M $M $M $M $M Not later than one year1,235(225)1,0101,389(259)1,130One year to five years2,592(412)2,1802,516(541)1,975Over five years901(202)699967(184)7834,728(839)3,8894,872(984)3,888Bank 20122011Gross Present value Gross Present value  investment in of minimum  investment in of minimum finance lease Unearned lease payment finance lease Unearned lease payment receivable income receivable receivable income receivable $M $M $M $M $M $M Not later than one year829(119)710830(120)710One year to five years1,877(173)1,7041,574(244)1,330Over five years318(133)185329(78)2513,024(425)2,5992,733(442)2,291Group  Maturity Period at 30 June 2012  Maturing 1 Maturing Maturing Year Between After or Less 1 & 5 Years 5 Years Total Industry (1)$M $M $M $M AustraliaSovereign1,47462831,619Agriculture3,0578851,3085,250Bank and other financial6,1403,0221,06310,225Home loans6,50120,702293,367320,570Construction1,8444095432,796Personal7,88311,7152,17421,772Asset financing2,9005,1631518,214Other commercial and industrial57,51837,40711,754106,679Total Australia87,31779,365310,443477,125OverseasSovereign3,6214,8901,72410,235Agriculture1,1511,7182,3295,198Bank and other financial9709141,2723,156Home loans7,0843,74919,23030,063Construction12112797345Personal634139656Asset financing111138219468Other commercial and industrial1,8462,1261,1625,134Total overseas15,53813,67526,04255,255Gross loans, bills discounted and other receivables102,85593,040336,485532,380Interest rateAustralia77,27965,690275,526418,495Overseas12,04810,80818,20941,065Total variable interest rates89,32776,498293,735459,560Australia10,03813,67534,91758,630Overseas3,4902,8677,83314,190Total fixed interest rates13,52816,54242,75072,820Gross loans, bills discounted and other receivables102,85593,040336,485532,380 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 13 Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables (continued) 

(1) The industry split above has been prepared on an industry exposure basis. 

(2) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012     139 

Group  Maturity Period at 30 June 2011  Maturing 1 Maturing Maturing Year Between After or Less 1 & 5 Years 5 Years Total Industry (1)$M $M $M $M AustraliaSovereign2,015801172,212Agriculture3,0091,0871,1825,278Bank and other financial7,8701,1429749,986Home loans6,05717,490282,703306,250Construction1,5477226082,877Personal (2)9,06510,9572,12222,144Asset financing3,0045,1341908,328Other commercial and industrial (2)58,08228,69011,76698,538Total Australia90,64965,302299,662455,613OverseasSovereign2,6361,4704974,603Agriculture1,9441,2551,7214,920Bank and other financial2,6191,7902,5796,988Home loans7,6304,28317,67829,591Construction1667284322Personal540136559Asset financing2586593391,256Other commercial and industrial1,2611,9782503,489Total overseas17,05411,52023,15451,728Gross loans, bills discounted and other receivables107,70376,822322,816507,341Interest rate Australia76,17848,445262,556387,179Overseas12,4268,57614,58535,587Total variable interest rates88,60457,021277,141422,766Australia14,47116,85737,10668,434Overseas4,6282,9448,56916,141Total fixed interest rates19,09919,80145,67584,575Gross loans, bills discounted and other receivables107,70376,822322,816507,341 
 
 
  
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 14 Provisions for Impairment 

(1) Basel II ratios are not calculated for the Bank legal entity as this is not a regulated structure for capital reporting purposes. For further details refer to Note 30. 

140 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

GroupBank20122011201020122011Provisions for impairment losses$M $M $M $M $M Collective provisionOpening balance3,0433,4613,2251,9261,989Net collective provision funding31245901519305Impairment losses written off(740)(646)(734)(626)(529)Impairment losses recovered22820677171176Other(6)(23)(8)(1)(15)Closing balance2,8373,0433,4611,9891,926Individually assessed provisionsOpening balance2,1251,9921,7291,081978Net new and increased individual provisioning1,2021,6021,862700996Write-back of provisions no longer required(425)(367)(384)(231)(221)Discount unwind to interest income(122)(147)(169)(65)(72)Other365374293151153Impairment losses written off(1,137)(1,329)(1,339)(625)(753)Closing balance2,0082,1251,9921,0111,081Total provisions for impairment losses4,8455,1685,4533,0003,007Less: Off balance sheet provisions(18)(21)(25)(18)(21)Total provisions for loan impairment4,8275,1475,4282,9822,986GroupBank20122011201020122011Provision ratios%  %  %  %  %  Collective provision as a % of credit risk weighted assets -  Basel II1. 091. 231. 35n/a (1)n/a (1)Total provision as a % of credit risk weighted assets - Basel II1. 852. 092. 12n/a (1)n/a (1)Individually assessed provisions for impairment as a % of gross impaired assets44. 6340. 1238. 1941. 6035. 89Total provisions for impairment losses as a % of gross loans and acceptances0. 891. 001. 060. 710. 75Group Bank 20122011201020122011Loan impairment expense$M $M $M $M $M Net collective provision funding31245901519305Net new and increased individual provisioning1,2021,6021,862700996Write-back of individually assessed provisions(425)(367)(384)(231)(221)Total loan impairment expense1,0891,2802,3799881,080 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 14 Provisions for Impairment (continued) 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012     141 

Group Individually assessed provisions by20122011201020092008industry classification$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaSovereign-----Agriculture898775774Bank and other financial23525425448327Home loans2562021508234Construction1521331321041Personal111121239Asset financing1437153112Other commercial and industrial1,1631,3071,268760161Total Australia1,9202,0311,9151,560248OverseasSovereign-----Agriculture711159-Bank and other financial611684Home loans282512107Construction----8Personal----2Asset financing----2Other commercial and industrial475749828Total overseas88947716931Total individually assessed provisions2,0082,1251,9921,729279Group 20122011201020092008Loans written off by industry classification$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaSovereign-----Agriculture32101023Bank and other financial511073831105Home loans8884953623Construction45897241Personal657567651496364Asset financing3826725849Other commercial and industrial88498960425534Total Australia1,7951,8721,887961479OverseasSovereign-----Agriculture5177--Bank and other financial1150864Home loans242625181Construction-1-41Personal1922181413Asset financing-----Other commercial and industrial333686605Total overseas8210318618224Gross loans written off1,8771,9752,0731,143503Recovery of amounts previously written offAustralia216199707073Overseas127734Total amounts recovered228206777377Net loans written off1,6491,7691,9961,070426 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 14 Provisions for Impairment (continued) 

Note 15 Property, Plant and Equipment 

The majority of the above amounts have expected useful lives longer than twelve months after the Balance Sheet date. 
There are no significant items of property, plant and equipment that are currently under construction. 
Land and buildings are carried at fair value based on independent valuations performed during the year; refer to Note 1(r). 

142 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group 20122011201020092008Loans recovered by industry classification$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaSovereign-----Agriculture---1-Bank and other financial173-1-Home loans543311Construction----1Personal147134595261Asset financing172355Other commercial and industrial30175105Total Australia216199707073OverseasSovereign-----Agriculture-----Bank and other financial-----Home loans-----Construction-----Personal87633Asset financing-----Other commercial and industrial4-1-1Total overseas127734Total loans recovered228206777377GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MLandAt 30 June valuation222269145191Closing balance222269145191BuildingsAt 30 June valuation351388255309Closing balance351388255309Total land and buildings 573657400500Leasehold ImprovementsAt cost1,3501,2761,0201,019Provision for depreciation(730)(662)(570)(518)Closing balance620614450501EquipmentAt cost1,5191,3851,018911Provision for depreciation(1,164)(1,028)(787)(667)Closing balance355357231244Assets Under LeaseAt cost1,144884353332Provision for depreciation(189)(146)(58)(51)Closing balance955738295281Total property, plant and equipment2,5032,3661,3761,526 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 15 Property, Plant and Equipment (continued) 

(1) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

Reconciliation of the carrying amounts of Property, Plant and Equipment is set out below: 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012     143 

GroupBank2012201120122011Carrying value at cost$M$M$M$MLand (1)10315259108Buildings (1)164216123174Total land and buildings at cost267368182282GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MLandCarrying amount at the beginning of the year269275191193Transfers to assets held for sale(1)(4)(1)(4)Disposals(48)(3)(44)(1)Net revaluations23(1)3Foreign currency translation adjustment-(2)--Carrying amount at the end of the year222269145191BuildingsCarrying amount at the beginning of the year388429309336Additions3415261Transfers to assets held for sale(1)(1)(1)(1)Disposals(58)(5)(57)(4)Transfers-(14)--Net revaluations25264Depreciation(37)(35)(28)(27)Foreign currency translation adjustment-(3)--Carrying amount at the end of the year351388255309Leasehold ImprovementsCarrying amount at the beginning of the year614567501465Additions12413842125Disposals(10)(14)(8)(7)Transfers-35--Net revaluations(1)(3)--Depreciation(107)(103)(85)(81)Foreign currency translation adjustment-(6)-(1)Carrying amount at the end of the year620614450501EquipmentCarrying amount at the beginning of the year357390244265Additions15816110898Disposals(5)(9)(2)(2)Transfers-(21)--Net revaluations2---Depreciation(158)(160)(119)(117)Foreign currency translation adjustment1(4)--Carrying amount at the end of the year355357231244Assets Under LeaseCarrying amount at the beginning of the year738690281247Additions2661434153Disposals(11)-(11)-Net revaluations1---Depreciation(50)(42)(16)(19)Foreign currency translation adjustment11(53)--Carrying amount at the end of the year955738295281 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 16 Intangible Assets  

(1) Core deposits represent the value of the Bankwest deposit base compared to the avoided cost of alternative funding sources such as securitisation and wholesale 
funding. This asset was acquired on 19 December 2008 with a useful life of seven years based on the weighted average attrition rates of the Bankwest deposit 
portfolio. 

(2)  Management  fee  rights  have  an  indefinite  useful  life  under  the  contractual  terms  of  the  management  agreements  and  are  subject  to  an  annual  valuation  for 

impairment testing purposes. No impairment was required as a result of this valuation. 

(3) Brand names predominately represent the value of royalty costs foregone by the Group through acquiring the Bankwest brand name. The royalty costs that would 
have been incurred by an entity using the Bankwest brand name are based on an annual percentage of income generated by Bankwest. This asset has an indefinite 
useful life, as there is no foreseeable limit to the period over which the brand name is expected to generate cash flows. The asset is not subject to amortisation, but is 
subjected to annual impairment testing. No impairment was required as a result of this test. The Count Financial Limited brand name ($4 million) is amortised over 
the estimated useful life of 20 years. 

(4) Other intangibles include the value of credit card relationships acquired from Bankwest. This value represents future net income generated from the relationships that 

existed at Balance Sheet date. The assets have a useful life of ten years based on the attrition rates of the Bankwest credit cardholders. 

Key Assumptions Used in Fair Value less Cost to Sell Calculations 
 Earnings  multiples  relating  to  the  Group’s  Banking  (Retail  Banking  Services,  Business  and  Private  Banking  and  New  Zealand)  and 
Wealth Management cash-generating units are sourced from publicly available data associated with valuations performed on recent 
businesses displaying similar characteristics to those cash-generating units, and are applied to current earnings. 

The New Zealand Life Insurance component of the New Zealand cash-generating unit is valued via an actuarial assessment. 

144 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MGoodwillPurchased goodwill7,7057,3992,5222,522Closing balance 7,7057,3992,5222,522Computer Software CostsCost2,4621,8952,1081,563Accumulated amortisation(758)(598)(503)(359)Accumulated impairment(4)-(4)-Closing balance 1,7001,2971,6011,204Core Deposits (1)Cost495495--Accumulated amortisation(248)(178)--Closing balance 247317--Management Fee Rights (2)Cost316311--Closing balance 316311--Brand Names (3)Cost190186--Closing balance 190186--Other Intangibles (4)Cost255203--Accumulated amortisation(132)(110)--Closing balance 12393--Total intangible assets10,2819,6034,1233,726 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 16 Intangible Assets (continued) 

Reconciliation of the carrying amounts of Intangible Assets is set out below: 

(1) Due primarily to the Core Banking Modernisation initiative. 

Goodwill allocation to the following cash generating units: 

(1) The allocation to Retail Banking Services includes goodwill related to the acquisitions of Colonial and State Bank of Victoria. 

(2) The allocation to Wealth Management principally relates to the goodwill on acquisition of Colonial and Count Financial Limited. 

Impairment Tests for Goodwill and Intangible Assets with Indefinite Lives 

 To  assess  whether  goodwill  or  intangible  assets  are  impaired,  the  carrying  amount  of  a  cash  generating  unit  is  compared  to  the 
recoverable amount, determined based on fair value less cost to sell, using an earnings multiple applicable to that type of business, or 
actuarial assessments that were consistent with externally sourced information. 

The key assumptions used when completing the actuarial assessment include new business multiples, discount rates, investment 

market returns, mortality, morbidity, persistency and expense inflation. These have been determined by reference to historical company 
and industry experience and publicly available data. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012     145 

GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MGoodwill Opening balance7,3997,4732,5222,522Additions232---Transfers(5)---Foreign currency translation adjustments79(74)--Total goodwill 7,7057,3992,5222,522Computer Software CostsOpening balance1,2979501,204860Additions:From acquisitions2448726From internal development (1)562482540461Amortisation(179)(183)(146)(143)Impairment(4)-(4)-Total computer software costs1,7001,2971,6011,204Core DepositsOpening balance317388--Amortisation(70)(71)--Total core deposits247317--Management Fee RightsOpening balance311311--Transfers5---Total management fee rights316311--Brand NamesOpening balance186186--Additions4---Total brand names190186--Other IntangiblesOpening balance93112--Additions52---Amortisation(22)(19)--Total other intangibles12393--Group20122011$M$MRetail Banking Services (1)4,1494,149Business and Private Banking297297Wealth Management (2)2,5872,287New Zealand672666Total7,7057,399 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 17 Other Assets 

The above amounts are expected to be recovered within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date. 

Note 18 Assets Held for Sale 

  (1) The balance includes the Group’s holding in FS Media Works Fund I, LP. 

(2) Impairments were recognised on Assets held for sale of $17 million during the year ended 30 June 2012 (30 June 2011: $10 million). These impairments are included 

in Funds management and investment contract income - other for the Group and net gain/(loss) on other non-fair valued financial instruments for the Bank. 

Note 19 Deposits and Other Public Borrowings 

The majority of the amounts are due to be settled within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date as shown in the maturity analysis 
table on the next page. 

146 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group Bank 2012201120122011Note $M $M $M $M Accrued interest receivable2,2752,3542,7132,395Defined benefit superannuation plan surplus41-76-76Accrued fees/reimbursements receivable883900212250Securities sold not delivered2,8922,0631,7981,266Intragroup current tax receivable--261281Current tax assets52105--Prepayments375344289277Other1,040839599372Total other assets7,5176,6815,8724,917Group Bank 2012201120122011$M $M $M $M Available-for-sale investments (1)12291229Land and Buildings2424Total assets held for sale (2)14331433Group Bank 2012201120122011$M $M $M $M AustraliaCertificates of deposit45,83945,54446,99746,522Term deposits152,543137,192127,640113,124On demand and short term deposits176,866169,190157,328151,317Deposits not bearing interest 7,5307,6307,5287,628Securities sold under agreements to repurchase5,2453,6965,2583,696Total Australia388,023363,252344,751322,287OverseasCertificates of deposit7,2564,7007,0034,345Term deposits28,97622,30410,8536,020On demand and short term deposits11,6488,866115115Deposits not bearing interest1,7521,6589192Securities sold under agreements to repurchase-367-105Total overseas49,63237,89518,06210,677Total deposits and other public borrowings437,655401,147362,813332,964 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 19 Deposits and Other Public Borrowings (continued) 

Maturity Distribution of Certificates of Deposit and Term Deposits 

(1) All certificates of deposit issued by the Group are for amounts greater than $100,000. 

Note 20 Liabilities at Fair Value through Income Statement 

(1) Designated at fair value through Income Statement at inception as they are managed by the Group on a fair value basis. Designating these liabilities at fair value 

through Income Statement has also eliminated an accounting mismatch created by measuring assets and liabilities on a different basis. 

Of the above amounts, trading liabilities are expected to be settled within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date for the Group and 
the Bank. The majority of the other amounts are expected to be settled within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date for the Group 
and more than twelve months after the Balance Sheet date for the Bank. 

The change in fair value for those liabilities designated as fair value through Income Statement due to credit risk for the Group is a $26 
million  loss  (2011:  $6  million  loss)  and  for  the  Bank  is  a  $26  million  loss  (2011:  $5  million  loss),  which  has  been  calculated  by 
determining the changes in credit spreads implicit in the fair value of the instruments issued. The cumulative change in fair value due to 
changes in credit risk for the Group is a $20 million gain (2011: $16 million gain) and for the Bank is a $20 million gain (2011: $15 million 
gain). 

The amount that would be contractually required to be paid at maturity to the holders of the financial liabilities designated at fair value 
through  Income Statement  for  the Group  is  $6,505 million  (2011:  $10,463 million)  and for the Bank is  $3,141 million  (2011:  $4,678 
million). 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012     147 

GroupAt 30 June 2012Maturing Maturing Maturing Maturing Three Between Between after Months or Three & Six & Twelve Twelve Less Six Months Months Months Total $M $M $M $M $M AustraliaCertificates of deposit (1)31,0595,7337608,28745,839Term deposits99,02620,04527,9155,557152,543Total Australia130,08525,77828,67513,844198,382OverseasCertificates of deposit (1)5,4535646635767,256Term deposits20,1184,8932,5361,42928,976Total overseas25,5715,4573,1992,00536,232Total certificates of deposits and term deposits155,65631,23531,87415,849234,614GroupAt 30 June 2011Maturing Maturing Maturing Maturing Three Between Between after Months or Three & Six & Twelve Twelve Less Six Months Months Months Total $M $M $M $M $M AustraliaCertificates of deposit (1)30,1535,3291,4238,63945,544Term deposits77,77122,19031,5985,633137,192Total Australia107,92427,51933,02114,272182,736OverseasCertificates of deposit (1)3,3491,072223564,700Term deposits13,9674,0012,6921,64422,304Total overseas17,3165,0732,9151,70027,004Total certificates of deposits and term deposits125,24032,59235,93615,972209,740GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MDeposits and other borrowings (1)1,2983,028--Debt instruments (1)2,7753,232699469Trading liabilities2,4824,2312,4824,231Total liabilities at fair value through Income Statement6,55510,4913,1814,700 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 21 Tax Liabilities 

Note 22 Other Provisions 

Provisions due to be settled within twelve months of the Balance Sheet date for the Group were $921 million (2011: $989 million) and for 
the Bank were $666 million (2011: $685 million). 

148 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

GroupBank2012201120122011Note $M$M$M$MAustraliaCurrent tax liability1,5181,1081,5201,118Total Australia1,5181,1081,5201,118OverseasCurrent tax liability19114315Deferred tax liability5338301--Total overseas357415315Total tax liabilities1,8751,5231,5231,133Group Bank 2012201120122011Note $M $M $M $M Long service leave416396385362Annual leave231255193209Other employee entitlements71656865Restructuring costs741213856General insurance claims184193--Self insurance/non-lending losses53494945Dividends652375237Other143161117183Total other provisions1,2241,277902957Group Bank 2012201120122011Reconciliation$M $M $M $M Restructuring costs:Opening balance121965673Additional provisions26126Amounts utilised during the year(49)(36)(20)(23)Closing balance741213856General insurance claims:Opening balance193191--Additional provisions14096--Amounts utilised during the year(149)(94)--Closing balance184193--Self insurance/non-lending losses:Opening balance49574553Additional provisions12111111Amounts utilised during the year(1)(10)-(10)Release of provision(7)(9)(7)(9)Closing balance53494945Other:Opening balance161160183194Additional provisions1801347648Amounts utilised during the year(173)(120)(63)(39)Release of provision(25)(13)(79)(20)Closing balance143161117183 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 22 Other Provisions (continued) 

Provision Commentary 

Restructuring Costs 

Provisions are recognised for restructuring activities when a detailed plan has been developed and a valid expectation that the plan will 
be carried out is held by those affected by it. The majority of the provision is expected to be used within 12 months of the Balance Sheet 
date.  

General Insurance Claims 

This provision is to cover future claims on general insurance contracts that have been incurred but not reported. 

Self Insurance and Non-Lending Losses 

This provision covers certain non-transferred insurance risk and non-lending losses. The self insurance provision is reassessed annually 
in consultation with actuarial advice. 

Note 23 Debt Issues 

(1) Represents the contractual maturity of the underlying instrument; other than for RMBS which is based on expected life. 

The Bank’s long term debt issues includes notes issued under the USD70 billion Euro Medium Term Note Programme, the USD50 billion 
US Medium Term Note Programme, the USD30 billion Covered Bond Programme, the USD25 billion CBA New York Branch Medium 
Term Note Programme and other applicable debt documentation. Notes issued under debt programmes are both fixed and variable rate. 
Interest rate risk associated with the notes is incorporated within the Bank’s interest rate risk framework. 

Where any debt issue is booked in an offshore branch or subsidiary, the amounts have first been converted into the functional currency of 
the branch at a branch defined exchange rate, before being converted into the AUD equivalent. 

Where proceeds have been employed in currencies other than that of the ultimate repayment liability, swaps or other risk management 
arrangements have been entered into. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012     149 

GroupBank2012201120122011Note $M$M$M$MMedium term notes69,92373,10764,57466,350Commercial paper34,14236,12126,31528,035Securitisation notes 477,8589,424--Covered bonds4712,789-11,423-Total debt issues124,712118,652102,31294,385Short Term Debt Issues by currencyUSD28,43728,93726,14325,925EUR992,005-1,077AUD18112310352GBP5,3054,91330882Other currencies1201433999Long term debt issues with less than one year to maturity15,98315,34213,45411,211Total short term debt issues50,12551,46339,76939,246Long Term Debt Issues by currencyUSD31,01731,38929,81429,727EUR12,4927,97311,2807,009AUD13,0359,5076,4642,678GBP2,0711,7071,7291,362NZD2,7152,384472542JPY7,0188,2656,9568,207Other currencies6,1955,9225,7845,572Offshore loans (all JPY)44424442Total long term debt issues74,58767,18962,54355,139Maturity Distribution of Debt Issues (1)Less than three months24,58627,72117,91020,993Between three and twelve months25,53923,74221,85918,253Between one and five years54,86348,25945,73938,991Greater than five years19,72418,93016,80416,148Total debt issues124,712118,652102,31294,385 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 23 Debt Issues (continued) 

(1) The amount outstanding at period end is measured at amortised cost. 

(2)  The  maximum  and  average  amounts  over  the  period  are  reported  on  a  face  value  basis  because  the  carrying  values  of  these  amounts  are  not  available.  Any 

differences between face value and carrying value would not be material given the short term nature of the borrowings. 

(3) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

(1) End of day, Sydney time. 

150 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group 201220112010Short term borrowings by issue currencyUSDOutstanding at period end (1)28,43728,93720,423Maximum amount outstanding at any month end (2) (3)33,35828,93721,592Average amount outstanding (2)30,98422,36220,707Weighted average interest rate on:Average amount outstanding0.4%0.4%0.3%Outstanding at period end0.3%0.3%0.5%EUROutstanding at period end (1)992,0051,981Maximum amount outstanding at any month end (2) (3)2,0122,0052,576Average amount outstanding (2)9201,4981,751Weighted average interest rate on:Average amount outstanding1.0%0.8%0.5%Outstanding at period end0.2%1.2%0.4%AUDOutstanding at period end (1)181123494Maximum amount outstanding at any month end (2) (3)248368648Average amount outstanding (2)188178446Weighted average interest rate on:Average amount outstanding4.5%4.9%4.0%Outstanding at period end (3)3.5%4.8%4.7%GBPOutstanding at period end (1)5,3054,9134,980Maximum amount outstanding at any month end (2) (3)5,3054,9134,980Average amount outstanding (2)4,8773,7763,110Weighted average interest rate on:Average amount outstanding0.8%0.8%0.6%Outstanding at period end0.7%0.9%0.7%Other CurrenciesOutstanding at period end (1)12014388Maximum amount outstanding at any month end (2) (3)187143386Average amount outstanding (2)10191136Weighted average interest rate on:Average amount outstanding1.6%0.3%0.6%Outstanding at period end (3)1.5%1.3%1.3%             $M (except where indicated)As AtAs At30 June30 JuneExchange rates utilised (1)Currency20122011AUD 1.00  =USD1.01811.0740EUR0.80790.7410GBP0.65090.6677NZD1.27561.2944JPY80.916086.3984 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 23 Debt Issues (continued) 

Guarantee Arrangements 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia 

Australian Government Guarantee Scheme for Large Deposits and Wholesale Funding (Guarantee Scheme) 

The Bank issued debt under its programmes which has the benefit of a guarantee by the Australian Government announced on 12 
October 2008 and formally commenced on 28 November 2008. On 7 February 2010 it was announced that the Guarantee Scheme 
would close to new liabilities from 31 March 2010. 

The arrangements were provided in a Deed of Guarantee dated 20 November 2008, Scheme Rules and in additional documentation for 
offers to residents of the United States and other jurisdictions.  

text  of 

the  Guarantee  Scheme  documents  can  be 

The 
the  Australian  Government  Guarantee  website  at 
www.guaranteescheme.gov.au. Fees are payable in relation to the Guarantee Scheme, calculated by reference to the term and amount 
of the liabilities guaranteed and the Bank’s credit rating. 

found  at 

Existing guaranteed debt issued by the Bank remains guaranteed until maturity. 

Separate arrangements apply under the Australian Government’s guarantee on deposits denominated in Australian dollars held in a 
specified  range  of  deposit  accounts  with  the  Bank  for  balances  per  depositor  totalling  up  to  $250,000  under  the  Financial  Claims 
Scheme (FCS), which is administered by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). Such deposits are guaranteed without 
charge. Term deposits which existed on or before 10 September 2011 are covered up to $1 million until 31 December 2012 or until the 
deposit matures – whichever is sooner. For term deposits opened or rolled over after 10 September 2011, the $250,000 cap applies 
from 1 February 2012. If a term deposit rolls over, the roll over date is taken to be the maturity date for the purposes of the FCS. Further 
information on the FCS can be found on the APRA website at: www.apra.gov.au/crossindustry/fcs. 

Guarantee under the Commonwealth Bank Sale Act 

Historically, the due payment of all monies payable by the Bank was guaranteed by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 117 
of the Commonwealth Banks Act 1959 (as amended) at 30 June 1996. With the sale of the Commonwealth’s shareholding in the Bank 
this guarantee has been progressively phased out under transitional arrangements found in the Commonwealth Bank Sale Act 1995. 

Demand deposits are no longer guaranteed by the Commonwealth under this guarantee. However, term deposits outstanding at 19 July 
1999 and debt issues payable by the Bank under a contract entered into prior to 19 July 1996 and outstanding at 19 July 1999 remains 
guaranteed until maturity. 

Note 24 Bills Payable and Other Liabilities 

Other than the defined benefit superannuation plan deficit, the above amounts are expected to be settled within twelve months of the 
Balance Sheet date. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

151 

GroupBank2012201120122011Note $M$M$M$MBills payable773867696733Accrued interest payable3,4113,7092,6772,917Accrued fees and other items payable1,8721,8071,2001,172Defined benefit superannuation plan deficit414648346483Securities purchased not delivered1,1752,6006941,813Other1,8661,5863,6462,630Total bills payable and other liabilities9,56110,6529,3779,348 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 25 Loan Capital 

(1) USD300 million undated Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) issued 
11 July 1988 exchangeable into dated FRNs. 

not called upon to subscribe for fully paid ordinary shares up to 
an amount equal to the principal value of the maturing FRNs. 

Outstanding  notes  (of  USD38  million)  were  discontinued  from 
inclusion in Tier One Loan Capital in July 2011. 

(2) USD100 million undated capital notes issued on 15 October 
1986. 

the  above 

to  each  of 

The Bank has entered into agreements with the Commonwealth 
of  Australia  relating 
issues  (the 
“Agreements”)  which  provide  that,  if  certain  events  occur,  the 
Bank  may  issue  either  fully  paid  ordinary  shares  to  the 
Commonwealth  of  Australia  or  (with  the  consent  of  the 
Commonwealth of Australia) a renounceable rights issue for fully 
paid ordinary shares to all shareholders, at the prevailing market 
price  for  the  Bank’s  shares,  up  to  an  amount  equal  to  the 
outstanding principal value of the relevant note issue or issues 
plus  any  accrued  interest  which  is  declared  due  and  payable. 
The capital so raised must be used to pay the amounts due and 
payable. 

Any one or more of the following events may trigger the issue of 
shares to the Commonwealth of Australia or a rights issue: 

 

 

 

A relevant event of default occurs in respect of a note issue 
and  the  Trustee  of  the  relevant  notes  gives  notice  to  the 
Bank that the notes are immediately due and payable; 
The  most  recent  audited  annual  Financial  Statements  of 
the Group show a loss (as defined in the Agreements); or 

The  Bank  does  not  declare  a  dividend  in  respect  of  its 
ordinary shares. 

The  relevant  events  of default differ  depending  on  the  relevant 
Agreement. In summary, they cover events such as failure of the 
Bank to meet its monetary obligation in respect of the relevant 
notes;  the  insolvency  of  the  Bank;  any  law  being  passed  to 
dissolve  the  Bank  or  the  Bank  ceasing  to  carry  on  general 
Banking  business  in  Australia;  and  the  Commonwealth  of 
Australia ceasing to guarantee the relevant notes. 

In relation to Dated FRNs which have matured to date, the Bank 
the  relevant 
and 
Agreement  to  reflect  that  the  Commonwealth  of  Australia  was 

the  Commonwealth  agreed 

to  amend 

152 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

(3) TPS 2003 

On  6  August  2003  a  wholly  owned  entity  of  the  Bank  (CBA 
Capital Trust) issued USD550 million of perpetual trust preferred 
securities  which can  be  redeemed  after the  first  12  years.  The 
securities  were  issued  into  the  US  capital  markets  and  are 
subject to Delaware and New York law. 

Each trust  preferred security  represents  a beneficial  ownership 
interest  in  the  assets  of  CBA  Capital  Trust,  a  statutory  trust 
established under Delaware law. The sole assets of CBA Capital 
Trust  are  the  funding  preferred  securities  issued  by  CBA 
Funding  Trust,  which  represent  preferred  beneficial  ownership 
interests in the assets of CBA Funding Trust, and a limited CBA 
guarantee. The securities qualify as innovative residual Tier One 
capital of the Bank. 

CBA Funding Trust applied all of the proceeds from the sale of 
the  funding  preferred  securities  to  purchase  convertible  notes 
from the Bank’s New Zealand branch. 

The  trust  preferred  securities  provide  for  a  semi-annual  cash 
distribution  in  arrears  at  the  annual  rate  of  5.805%.  The 
distributions on the trust preferred securities are non-cumulative. 
CBA  Capital  Trust’s  ability  to  pay  distributions  on  the  trust 
preferred  securities  is  ultimately  dependent  upon  the  ability  of 
CBA to make interest payments on the convertible notes. 

The Bank’s New Zealand branch will make interest payments on 
the convertible notes only if and when declared by the Board of 
Directors  of  the Bank.  The  Board of  Directors  is  not  permitted, 
unless approved by APRA, to declare interest. 

If  interest  is  not  paid  on  the  convertible  notes  on  an  interest 
payment date, holders will not receive a distribution on the trust 
preferred securities and, unless at the time of the non-payment 
the Bank  is  prevented  by  applicable  law  from  issuing the  CBA 
preference  shares,  convertible  notes  will  automatically  convert 
into  CBA  preference  shares,  which  will  result  in  mandatory 
redemption  of  the  trust  preferred  securities  for  American 
Depository  Shares  (ADS).  Automatic  conversion  into  CBA 

GroupBankCurrency 2012201120122011Amount (M)Footnotes$M $M $M $M Tier One Loan CapitalExchangeableFRN  USD 38 (1)-35-35UndatedFRN  USD 100 (2)98939893UndatedTPS  USD 550 (3)540512540512UndatedPERLS III  AUD 1,166 (4)1,1581,1561,1581,156UndatedPERLS IV  AUD 1,465 (5)1,4631,4581,4631,458UndatedPERLS V  AUD 2,000 (6)1,9851,9781,9801,971UndatedTPS  USD 700 (7)--684647Total Tier One loan capital5,2445,2325,9235,872Tier Two Loan CapitalAUD denominated(8)8001,4998001,499USD denominated(9)3441,3963441,396JPY denominated(10)927843801750GBP denominated(11)229224229224NZD denominated(12)559556274270EUR denominated(12)1,2331,3431,2331,343CAD denominated(12)288288288288Total Tier Two loan capital4,3806,1493,9695,770Fair value hedge adjustments398180331166Total loan capital10,02211,56110,22311,808 
 
 
 
  
 
Note 25 Loan Capital (continued) 

preference  shares  will  also  occur  on  the  occurrence  of  certain 
other events, including a number of events specified by APRA. 

No later than 35 business days prior to 30 June 2015, holders 
may deliver a notice to the Bank requiring it to exchange each 
trust  preferred  security  for  ordinary  shares.  The  Bank  may 
satisfy  the  obligation  to  deliver  ordinary  shares  by  either 
delivering  the  applicable  number  of  ordinary  shares  or  by 
arranging for the sale of the trust preferred securities at par and 
delivering the proceeds to the holder. Subject to the approval of 
APRA,  holders may  exchange  trust  preferred securities  for the 
Bank’s ordinary shares earlier than 30 June 2015 if, prior to that 
date, a takeover bid or scheme of arrangement in relation to a 
takeover has occurred. 

If CBA Capital Trust is liquidated, dissolved or wound up and its 
assets  are  distributed,  for  each  trust  preferred  security  owned, 
the holder is entitled to receive the stated liquidation amount of 
USD1,000 plus the accrued but unpaid distribution for the then 
current  distribution  period.  Holders  may  not  receive  the  full 
amount  payable  on  liquidation  if  CBA  Capital  Trust  does  not 
have enough funds. 

The  trustees  of  CBA  Capital  Trust  can  elect  to  dissolve  CBA 
Capital Trust and distribute the funding preferred securities if at 
any time certain changes in tax law or other tax-related events or 
the specified changes in U.S. Investment Company law occur. 

Neither  the  trust  preferred  securities  nor  the  funding  preferred 
securities can be redeemed at the option of their holders. Other 
than  in  connection  with  an  acceleration  of  the  principal  of  the 
convertible  notes  upon  the  occurrence  of  an  event  of  default, 
neither  the  trust  preferred  securities  nor  the  funding  preferred 
securities are repayable in cash unless the Bank’s New Zealand 
branch, at its sole option, redeems the convertible notes. 

the  specified  changes 

The  Bank’s  New  Zealand  branch  may  redeem  the  convertible 
notes for cash: (a) before 30 June 2015, in whole, but not in part, 
and only if the specified changes in tax law or other tax-related 
events  occur, 
Investment 
Company law and‚ changes in the "Tier One'' regulatory capital 
the  convertible  notes,  or  certain  corporate 
treatment  of 
transactions 
takeover  bid  or  a  scheme  of 
arrangement  in  relation  to  a  takeover  described  in  the  offering 
memorandum  occur;  and  (b)  at  any  time  on  or  after  30  June 
2015.  The  Bank’s  New  Zealand  branch  must  first  obtain  the 
approval of APRA to redeem the convertible notes for cash. 

involving  a 

in  U.S. 

The Bank guarantees: 

 

 

 

 

 

the 

Semi-annual  distributions  on 
funding  preferred 
securities  by  CBA  Funding  Trust  to  CBA  Capital  Trust  to 
the  extent  CBA  Funding  Trust  has  funds  available  for 
distribution; 
Semi-annual  distributions  on  the  trust  preferred  securities 
by CBA Capital Trust to the extent CBA Capital Trust has 
funds available for distribution; 
The  redemption amount  due to  CBA  Capital Trust if  CBA 
Funding Trust is obligated to redeem the funding preferred 
securities  for  cash  and  to  the  extent  CBA  Funding  Trust 
has funds available for payment; 
The  redemption  amount  due  if  CBA  Capital  Trust  is 
obligated to redeem the trust preferred securities for cash 
and to the extent CBA Capital Trust has funds available for 
payment; 
The delivery of ADS to CBA Capital Trust by CBA Funding 
Trust  if  CBA  Funding  Trust  is  obligated  to  redeem  the 
funding preferred securities for ADS and to the extent that  

Notes to the Financial Statements 

 

 

 

 

CBA Funding Trust has ADS available for that redemption; 
The delivery of ADS by CBA Capital Trust if CBA Capital 
Trust  is  obligated  to  redeem  the  trust  preferred  securities 
for ADS and to the extent that CBA Capital Trust has ADS 
available for that redemption; 
The delivery of funding preferred securities by CBA Capital 
Trust upon dissolution of CBA Capital Trust as a result of a 
tax  event  or  an  event  giving  rise  to  a  more  than 
insubstantial  risk  that  CBA  Capital  Trust  is  or  will  be 
considered  an  Investment  Company  which  is  required  to 
be registered under the Investment Company Act; 
The  payment  of  the  liquidation  amount  of  the  funding 
preferred  securities  if  CBA  Funding  Trust  is  liquidated,  to 
the extent that CBA Funding Trust has funds available after 
payment of its creditors; and 
The  liquidation  amount  of  the  trust  preferred  securities  if 
CBA  Capital  Trust  is  liquidated,  to  the  extent  that  CBA 
Capital  Trust  has  funds  available  after  payment  of  its 
creditors. 

The  Bank’s  guarantee  does  not  cover  the  non-payment  of 
distributions on the funding preferred securities to the extent that 
CBA  Funding  Trust  does  not  have  sufficient  funds  available  to 
pay distributions on the funding preferred securities. 

Trust preferred securities have limited voting rights. 

Trust preferred securities have the right to bring a direct action 
against the Bank if: 

 

 

 

 

The Bank’s New Zealand branch does not pay interest or 
the  redemption  price  of  the  convertible  notes  to  CBA 
Funding Trust in accordance with their terms;  
The  Bank’s  New  Zealand  branch  does  not  deliver  ADS 
representing  preference  shares  to  CBA  Funding  Trust  in 
accordance with the terms of the convertible notes;  
The  Bank  does  not  perform  its  obligations  under  its 
guarantees  with  respect  to  the  trust  preferred  securities 
and the funding preferred securities; or 
The Bank does not deliver cash or ordinary shares on 30 
June 2015. 

(4) PERLS III 

On  6  April  2006  a  wholly  owned  entity  of  the  Bank  (Preferred 
Capital  Limited  “PCL”)  issued  $1,166  million  of  Perpetual 
Exchangeable  Repurchaseable  Listed  Shares  (PERLS  III). 
PERLS III are preference shares in a special purpose Company, 
(the ordinary shares of which are held by the Bank), perpetual in 
nature,  offering  a  non-cumulative  floating  rate  distribution 
payable  quarterly.  PERLS  III  were  issued  into  the  Australian 
capital markets  and  are subject to  Australian  law.  They  qualify 
as innovative residual Tier One capital of the Bank. 

The  Dividends  paid  to  PERLS  III  Holders  will  be  primarily 
sourced  from  interest  paid  on  the  Convertible  Notes  issued  by 
CBA  NZ  to  PCL.  The  payment  of  interest  on  the  underlying 
Convertible  Notes  and  Dividends  on  PERLS  III  are  not 
guaranteed and are subject to a number of conditions including 
the availability of profits and the Board (of the Bank in relation to 
Convertible  Note  interest,  or  of  PCL  in  relation  to  PERLS  III 
Dividends) resolving to make the payment. 

The Dividend Rate is a floating rate calculated for each Dividend 
Period  as  the  sum  of  the  Margin  per  annum  plus  the  Market 
Rate per annum multiplied by (1 – Tax Rate). The Initial Margin 
is  1.05%  over  Bank  Bill  Swap  Rate  and  the  Step-up  Margin, 
effective  from  the  “Step-up  Date”  on  6  April  2016,  is  the  Initial 
Margin plus 1.00% per annum. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

153 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 25 Loan Capital (continued) 

If each PERLS III Holder is not paid a dividend in full within 20 
Business  Days  of  the  Dividend  Payment  Date,  the  Bank  is 
prevented from paying any interest, dividends or distributions, or 
undertaking  certain  other  transactions,  in  relation  to  any 
securities  of  the  Bank  that  rank  for  interest  payments  or 
distributions  equally  with,  or  junior to,  the  Convertible  Notes  or 
Bank  PERLS  III  Preference  Shares.  This  Dividend  Stopper 
applies until an amount in aggregate equal to the full dividend on 
PERLS III for four consecutive dividend periods has been paid to 
PERLS III Holders. 

PERLS  III  will  automatically  exchange  for  Bank  PERLS  III 
Preference Shares: 

  On a failure by PCL to pay a Dividend; 
 
At any time at the Bank’s discretion; or 
 

10 Business Days before the Conversion Date. 

Subject to APRA approval, PCL may elect to exchange PERLS 
III for the Conversion Number of Bank Ordinary Shares or $200 
cash for each PERLS III:  

  On the Step-up Date or any Dividend Payment Date after 

the Step-up Date; or 

 

If a Regulatory Event or Tax Event occurs. 

PERLS III will automatically exchange for Bank Ordinary Shares 
if: 

 
 
 

An APRA Event occurs; 
A Default Event occurs; or 
A Change of Control Event occurs. 

PERLS  III  will  be  automatically  exchanged for Bank PERLS  III 
Preference  Shares  no  later  than  10  Business  Days  prior  to  6 
April 2046 (if they have not been exchanged before that date).  

Holders  are  not  entitled  to  request  exchange  or  redemption  of 
PERLS III or Bank PERLS III Preference Shares.  

Holders of PERLS III are entitled to vote at a general meeting of 
PCL on certain issues. PERLS III holders have no rights at any 
meeting of the Bank. 

(5) PERLS IV 

On  12  July  2007  the  Bank  issued  $1,465  million  of  Perpetual 
Exchangeable Resalable Listed Securities (PERLS IV). PERLS 
IV are stapled securities comprising an unsecured subordinated 
note issued  by the Bank’s  New  York  branch  and  a convertible 
preference  share  issued  by  the  Bank.  These  securities  are 
perpetual  in  nature;  offer  a  non-cumulative  floating  distribution 
rate payable quarterly. PERLS IV were issued into the Australian 
capital markets  and  are subject to  Australian  law.  They  qualify 
as non-innovative residual Tier One capital of the Bank. 

The payment of interest on the underlying convertible notes and 
dividends on PERLS IV are not guaranteed and are subject to a 
number of conditions including the availability of profits and the 
ability of the Board to stop payments. 

The  distribution  rate  is  a  floating  rate  calculated  for  each 
distribution period as the sum of the Bank Bill Swap Rate plus 
1.05% per annum, multiplied by (1 – Tax Rate). 

Distributions  paid  to  holders  will  be  interest  on  notes  until  an 
Assignment Event and dividends on preference shares after the 
Assignment  Event.  Upon  an  Assignment  Event,  the  notes  are 
de-stapled from the preference shares and are assigned to the 
Bank and investors continue to hold preference shares.  

If  distributions  on  PERLS  IV  are  not  paid  in  full  within  20 

154 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

business  days  of  the  payment  date,  an  Assignment  Event  will 
occur  and  the  Bank  is  prevented  from  paying  any  interest, 
dividends or distributions in relation to any securities of the Bank 
that  rank  equally  with  or  junior  to  the  preference  shares.  This 
Dividend Stopper applies until:  

 

 

 

 

A  Special  Resolution  of  Holders  authorising the  payment, 
capital  return,  buy-back,  redemption  or  repurchase  is 
approved, and APRA does not otherwise object; 
An Optional Dividend of an amount in aggregate equal to 
the  unpaid  amount  for  the  preceding  four  consecutive 
Distribution Periods has been paid to Holders; 
Four  consecutive  Dividends  scheduled  to  be  payable  on 
PERLS IV thereafter have been paid in full; or 

All PERLS IV have been exchanged. 

PERLS  IV  may  be  exchanged  for  cash  or  converted  into 
ordinary  shares  of  the  Bank  on  31  October  2012.  However, 
exchange may not occur if certain conditions are not met. On 31 
October 2012: 

 

 

 

 

The Bank may arrange a resale by requiring all Holders to 
sell  their  PERLS  IV  to  a  third  party  for  $200  (the  face 
value); 
If  the  Bank  does  not  arrange  a  resale,  an  Assignment 
Event will occur and PERLS IV will convert into a variable 
number  of  ordinary  shares  of  the  Bank  subject  to  some 
conditions relating to the ordinary share price at the time; 
If these conversion conditions are not satisfied on that date, 
then  the  conversion  date  moves  to  the  next  distribution 
payment date on which they are satisfied; and 

In certain circumstances, where the conversion conditions 
are  not  satisfied,  the  Bank  may  (subject  to  APRA’s  prior 
approval) elect to repurchase all PERLS IV for $200 each. 

The  Bank  may,  subject  to  APRA’s  prior  approval,  elect  to 
exchange all PERLS IV for cash and/or ordinary shares if any of 
the following occurs:  

 
 
 

Tax Event; 
Regulatory Event; and  

Non-Operating Holding Company (NOHC) Event.  

The Bank’s ability to convert PERLS IV on the occurrence of any 
of these events is subject to the same conversion conditions as 
mentioned above. 

If a change of control event occurs, Holders will receive cash for 
all of their PERLS IV (subject to APRA’s approval). 

Holders  are  not  entitled  to  request  exchange  or  redemption  of 
PERLS IV. 

Holders of PERLS IV have no right to vote at any meeting of the 
Bank except in the following specific circumstances: 

 

During  a  period  during  which  a  Dividend  (or  part  of  a 
Dividend) in respect of the Preference Shares is in arrears; 

  On a proposal to reduce the Bank’s share capital; 
  On  a  proposal  that  affects  rights  attached  to  Preference 

Shares; 

  On  a  resolution  to  approve  the  terms  of  a  buy-back 

agreement; 

  On a proposal to wind up the Bank; 
  On a proposal for the disposal of the whole of the Bank’s 

property, business and undertaking; and 
During the winding-up of the Bank. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
Note 25 Loan Capital (continued) 
(6) PERLS V 

On 14 October 2009 the Bank issued $2,000 million of Perpetual 
Exchangeable  Resalable  Listed  Securities  (PERLS  V).  PERLS 
V are stapled securities comprising an unsecured subordinated 
note  issued  by  the  Bank’s  New  Zealand  branch  and  a 
convertible  preference  share  issued  by  the  Bank.  These 
securities are perpetual in nature; offer a non-cumulative floating 
distribution  rate  payable  quarterly.  PERLS  V  were  issued  into 
the Australian capital markets and are subject to Australian law. 
They  qualify  as  non-innovative  residual  Tier  One capital  of  the 
Bank.  

The payment of interest on the underlying convertible notes and 
dividends on PERLS V are not guaranteed and are subject to a 
number of conditions including the availability of profits and the 
ability of the Board to stop payments. 

The  distribution  rate  is  a  floating  rate  calculated  for  each 
distribution period as the sum of the Bank Bill Swap Rate plus 
3.40% per annum, multiplied by (1 – Tax Rate). 

Distributions  paid  to  holders  will  be  interest  on  notes  until  an 
Assignment Event and dividends on preference shares after the 
Assignment  Event.  Upon  an  Assignment  Event,  the  notes  are 
de-stapled from the preference shares and are assigned to the 
Bank and investors continue to hold preference shares. 

If distributions on PERLS V are not paid in full within 20 business 
days of the payment date, an Assignment Event will occur and 
the  Bank  is  prevented  from  paying  any  interest,  dividends  or 
distributions  in  relation  to  any  securities  of  the  Bank  that  rank 
equally  with  or  junior  to  the  preference  shares.  This  Dividend 
Stopper applies until: 

 

 

 

 

A  Special  Resolution  of  Holders  authorising the  payment, 
capital  return,  buy-back,  redemption  or  repurchase  is 
approved, and APRA does not otherwise object; 
An Optional Dividend of an amount in aggregate equal to 
the  unpaid  amount  for  the  preceding  four  consecutive 
Distribution Periods has been paid to Holders; 
Four  consecutive  Dividends  scheduled  to  be  payable  on 
PERLS V thereafter have been paid in full; or 

All PERLS V have been exchanged. 

PERLS V may be exchanged for cash or converted into ordinary 
shares  of  the  Bank  on  31  October  2014.  However,  exchange 
may not occur if certain conditions are not met. On 31 October 
2014: 

 

 

 

 

The Bank may arrange a resale by requiring all Holders to 
sell their PERLS V to a third party for $200 (the face value); 
If  the  Bank  does  not  arrange  a  resale,  an  Assignment 
Event will occur and PERLS V will convert into a variable 
number  of  ordinary  shares  of  the  Bank  subject  to  some 
conditions relating to the ordinary share price at the time; 
In certain circumstances, where the conversion conditions 
are  not  satisfied,  the  Bank  may  (subject  to  APRA’s  prior 
approval) elect to repurchase all PERLS V for $200 each; 
or 
If  PERLS  V  are  not  exchanged  on  this  date,  the  same 
possible  outcomes  will  apply 
to  each  subsequent 
distribution payment date until exchange occurs. 

The  Bank  may,  subject  to  APRA’s  prior  approval,  elect  to 
exchange all PERLS V for cash and/or ordinary shares if any of 
the following occurs:  

 
 

Tax Event; 
Regulatory Event; and 

Notes to the Financial Statements 

 

Non-Operating Holding Company (NOHC) Event.  

The Bank’s ability to convert PERLS V on the occurrence of any 
of these events is subject to the same conversion conditions as 
mentioned above. 

If  an  Acquisition  Event  occurs,  Holders  will  receive  cash  or 
ordinary  shares  for  all  of  their  PERLS  V  (subject  to  APRA’s 
approval). 

Holders  are  not  entitled  to  request  exchange  or  redemption  of 
PERLS V.  

Holders of PERLS V have no right to vote at any meeting of the 
Bank except in the following specific circumstances: 

 

During  a  period  during  which  a  Dividend  (or  part  of  a 
Dividend) in respect of the Preference Shares is in arrears; 

  On a proposal to reduce the Bank’s share capital; 
  On  a  proposal  that  affects  rights  attached  to  Preference 

Shares; 

  On  a  resolution  to  approve  the  terms  of  a  buy-back 

agreement; 

  On a proposal to wind up the Bank; 
  On a proposal for the disposal of the whole of the Bank’s 

property, business and undertaking; and 
During the winding-up of the Bank. 

 

(7) TPS 2006 

On  15  March  2006  a  wholly  owned  entity  of  the  Bank  (CBA 
Capital  Trust  II)  issued  USD700  million  ($947  million)  of 
perpetual trust preferred securities which can be redeemed after 
the first 10 years. The securities were issued into the US capital 
markets and are subject to Delaware and New York law. 

Each  trust  preferred  security  represents  a  preferred  beneficial 
ownership  interest  in  the  assets  of  CBA  Capital  Trust  II,  a 
statutory trust established under Delaware law. The sole assets 
of the CBA Capital Trust II are USD subordinated notes issued 
by  a  New  Zealand  subsidiary  of  the  Bank,  preference  shares 
issued by the Bank, and a limited guarantee by the Bank’s New 
Zealand  branch.  Each  subordinated  note  held  by  CBA  Capital 
Trust II forms a unit with a Bank preference share held by CBA 
Capital  Trust  II.  The  trust  preferred  securities  form  part  of  the 
Bank’s innovative residual Tier One capital. 

The Bank’s New Zealand subsidiary applied the proceeds of its 
subordinated  note  issue  to  CBA  Capital  Trust  II  to  purchase 
USD notes from the Bank’s New Zealand branch. 

Cash  distributions  on  the  trust  preferred  securities  are  at  the 
fixed  rate  of  6.024%  are  payable  semi-annually  to  15  March 
2016.  After  that  date,  cash  distributions  on  the  trust  preferred 
securities  will  accrue  at  the  rate  of  LIBOR  plus  1.740%  per 
annum payable quarterly in arrears. 

Cash distributions on the trust preferred securities will be limited 
to the interest the Bank’s New  Zealand subsidiary pays on the 
subordinated  notes,  payments  in  respect  of  interest  on  the 
subordinated  notes  by  the  Bank’s  New  Zealand  branch  as 
guarantor under the subordinated notes guarantee and, after 15 
March  2016,  the  dividends  the  Bank  pays  on  the  Bank 
preference shares. Payments in respect of cash distributions will 
be  guaranteed  on  a  subordinated  basis  by  the  Bank,  as 
guarantor, but only to the extent CBA Capital Trust II has funds 
sufficient for the payment. 

There  are  restrictions  on  the  Bank’s  New  Zealand  subsidiary’s 
ability to make payments on the subordinated notes, the Bank’s 
New Zealand branch’s ability to make payments on the Bank’s 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

155 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 25 Loan Capital (continued) 

New  Zealand  branch  notes  and 
the  subordinated  note 
guarantee and the Bank’s ability to make payments on the Bank 
preference shares. Distributions on the trust preferred securities 
are not cumulative. 

 

Failure  to  pay  in  full  a  distribution  within  21  business  days  will 
result in the distribution to holders of one Bank preference share 
for  each trust  preferred security  held  in  redemption  of the trust 
preferred securities. 

If CBA Capital Trust II is liquidated, dissolved or wound up and 
its  assets  are  distributed,  for  each  trust  preferred  security, 
holders  are  entitled  to  receive  the  stated  liquidation  amount  of 
USD1,000, plus the accrued but unpaid distribution for the then 
current  distribution  payment  period,  after it  has  paid  liabilities it 
owes to its creditors. 

The trust preferred securities are subject to redemption for cash, 
qualifying  Tier  One  securities  or Bank  preference  shares  if the 
Bank  redeems  or  varies  the  terms  of  the  Bank  preference 
shares.  The  trust  preferred  securities  are  also  subject  to 
redemption if any other Assignment Event occurs. 

If the Bank preference shares are redeemed for qualifying Tier 
One  securities  or  the  terms  thereof  are  varied,  holders  will 
receive  one  Bank  preference  share  or  USD1,000  liquidation 
amount  or  similar  amount  of  qualifying  Tier  One  securities  for 
each trust preferred security held. 

Holders of trust preferred securities generally will not have any 
voting rights except in limited circumstances.  

The  holders  of  a  majority  in  liquidation  amount  of  the  trust 
preferred securities, acting together as a single class, however, 
have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting 
any proceeding for any remedy available to the property trustee 
of  CBA  Capital  Trust  II  or  direct  the  exercise  of  any  trust  or 
power conferred upon the property trustee of CBA Capital Trust 
II, as holder of the subordinated notes and the Bank preference 
shares. 

Trust preferred securities holders have the right to bring a direct 
action against: 

 

 

 

The  Bank’s  New  Zealand  subsidiary  if  the  Bank’s  New 
Zealand subsidiary does not pay when due, interest on the 
subordinated notes or certain other amounts payable under 
the  subordinated  notes  to  CBA  Capital  Trust  II  in 
accordance with their terms; 
The  Bank  if  it  does  not  perform  its  obligations  under  the 
trust guarantee; and 
The Bank’s New Zealand branch or the Bank if the Bank’s 
New Zealand branch does not perform its obligations under 
the subordinated notes guarantee or under the Bank’s New 
Zealand branch notes. 

The Bank will guarantee the trust preferred securities: 

 

 

 

Cash distributions on the trust preferred securities by CBA 
Capital  Trust  II  to  holders  of  trust  preferred  securities  on 
distribution payment dates, to the extent CBA Capital Trust 
II has funds available for distribution; 
The  cash  redemption  amount  due  to  holders  of  trust 
preferred  securities  if  CBA  Capital  Trust  II  is  obligated  to 
redeem the trust preferred securities for cash, to the extent 
CBA Capital Trust II has funds available for distribution; 
The  delivery  of  Bank  preference  shares  or  qualifying  Tier 
One securities to holders of trust preferred securities if CBA 
Capital  Trust  II  is  obligated  to  redeem  the  trust  preferred 
securities  for  Bank  preference  shares  or  qualifying  Tier 

156 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

One securities, to the extent CBA Capital Trust II has or is 
entitled to receive such securities available for distribution; 
and 
The  payment  of  the  liquidation  amount  of  the  trust 
preferred securities if CBA Capital Trust II is liquidated, to 
the extent that CBA Capital Trust II has funds available for 
distribution. 

The  trust  guarantee  does  not  cover  the 
failure  to  pay 
distributions or make other payments or distributions on the trust 
preferred securities to the extent that CBA Capital Trust II does 
not have sufficient  funds  available to  pay  distributions or make 
other payments or deliveries on the trust preferred securities. 

Upon  the  occurrence  of  an  Assignment  Event,  with  respect  to 
the  subordinated  notes  comprising  a  part  of  the  units  CBA 
Capital Trust II holds to which such Assignment Event applies: 

 

 

 

The  subordinated  notes  will  detach  from  the  Bank’s 
preference  shares  that  are  part  of  those  units  and 
automatically be transferred to CBA; 
If the Assignment Event is the cash redemption of the Bank 
preference  shares,  upon  receipt,  CBA  Capital  Trust  II  will 
pay to the holders of the trust preferred securities called for 
redemption  the  cash  redemption  price  for  those  Bank 
preference shares and the accrued and unpaid interest on 
the  subordinated  notes  that  were  part  of  the  units  with 
those Bank preference shares; and 
If the Assignment Event is not the cash redemption of Bank 
preference  shares,  CBA  Capital  Trust  II  will  deliver  to  all 
holders  of  trust  preferred  securities  in  redemption  thereof 
one Bank preference share for each USD1,000 liquidation 
preference of trust preferred securities to be redeemed or, 
if  qualifying  Tier  One  securities  are  delivered,  USD1,000 
liquidation amount or similar amount of qualifying Tier One 
securities  for  each  USD1,000  liquidation  amount  of  trust 
preferred  securities  to  be  redeemed,  and  the  Bank 
preference  shares  or  qualifying  Tier  One  securities  will 
accrue non-cumulative dividends or similar amounts at the 
rate of 6.024% per annum to but excluding 15 March 2016 
and  at  the  rate  of  LIBOR  plus  1.740%  per  annum 
thereafter. 

If the Bank is liquidated, holders of Bank preference shares will 
be  entitled  to  receive  an  amount  equal  to  a  liquidation 
preference  out  of  surplus  assets  of  USD1,000  per  Bank 
preference share plus accrued and unpaid dividends for the then 
current  dividend  payment  period  plus  any  other  dividends  or 
other  amounts  to  which  the  holder  is  entitled  under  the 
Constitution. 

Subject to APRA’s prior approval, prior to the occurrence of an 
Assignment Event that applies to all of the subordinated notes, 
the Bank may pay an optional dividend on the Bank preference 
shares if the Bank’s New Zealand subsidiary or the Bank’s New 
Zealand branch, as guarantor, has failed to pay in full interest on 
the  subordinated  notes  or  the  Bank  has  failed  to  pay  in  full 
dividends  on  the  Bank  preference  shares  on  any  interest 
payment date and/or dividend payment date. 

On  or  after  15  March  2016,  the  Bank  may  redeem  the  Bank 
preference  shares  for  cash,  in  whole  or  in  part,  on  any  date 
selected by the Bank at a redemption price equal to USD1,000 
per  share  plus  any  accrued  and  unpaid  dividends  for  the  then 
current dividend payment period, if any. 

Prior  to  15  March  2016,  the  Bank  may  redeem  the  Bank 
preference  shares  for  cash,  vary  the  terms  of  the  preference 
shares or redeem the preference shares for qualifying Tier One

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 25 Loan Capital (continued) 

securities, in whole but not in part, on any date selected by the 
Bank: 

 

 

If  the  Bank  preference  shares  are  held  by  CBA  Capital 
Trust II, upon the occurrence of a trust preferred securities 
tax event, an adverse tax event, an investment Company 
event or a regulatory event; or 

If the Bank preference shares are not held by CBA Capital 
Trust  II,  upon  the  occurrence  of  a  preference  share 
withholding tax event, an adverse tax event or a regulatory 
event. 

Holders  of  Bank  preference  shares  will  be  entitled  to  vote 
together with the holders of CBA ordinary shares on the basis of 
one vote for each Bank preference share: 

 

During a period in which a dividend (or part of a dividend) 
in respect of the Bank preference shares is in arrears; 

  On a proposal to reduce share capital;  
  On  a  proposal  that  affects  rights  attached  to  the  Bank 

preference shares; 

  On  a  resolution  to  approve  the  terms  of  a  Buy-back 

agreement; 

  On a proposal for the disposal of the whole of the Group’s 

property, business and undertaking; and 

  On a proposal to wind up and during the winding up of the 

Group. 

The rights attached to the Bank preference shares may not be 
changed except with any required regulatory approvals and with 
the consent in writing of the holders of at least 75% of the Bank 
preference shares. 

The Bank’s New Zealand subsidiary may not make payments on 
the  subordinated  notes,  the  Bank’s  New  Zealand  branch  may 
not make payments on the subordinated notes guarantee or the 
Bank’s New Zealand branch notes, and the Bank may not make 
payments on the Bank preference shares if an APRA condition 
exists; if the Bank’s stopper resolution has been passed and not 
been  rescinded  or  if  the  Bank’s  New  Zealand  subsidiary,  the 
Bank’s New Zealand branch or the Bank, as the case may be, is 
prohibited from making such a payment by instruments or other 
obligations of the Bank. 

If  distributions,  interest  or  dividends  are  not  paid  in  full  on  a 
payment date; the redemption price is not paid or securities are 
not delivered in full on a redemption date for the trust preferred 
securities or the Bank preference shares, then the Bank may not 
pay  any  interest;  declare  or  pay  any  dividends  or  distributions 
from the income or capital of the Bank, or return any capital or 
undertake  any  buy-backs,  redemptions  or  repurchases  of 
existing capital securities or any securities, or instruments of the 
Bank that by their terms rank or are expressed to rank equally 
with  or  junior  to  the  Bank’s  New  Zealand  branch  notes  or  the 
Bank  preference  shares  for  payment  of  interest,  dividends  or 
similar amounts unless and until: 

 

 

In the case of any non-payment of distributions on the trust 
preferred securities on any distribution payment date, on or 
within  21  business  days  after  any  distribution  payment 
date, CBA Capital Trust II or the Bank, as guarantor, has 
paid  in  full  to  the  holders  of  the  trust  preferred  securities 
any  distributions  owing  in  respect  of  that  distribution 
payment date through the date of actual payment in full; 
In the case of any non-payment of a dividend on the Bank 
preference shares on any dividend payment date, the Bank 
has  paid  (a) that  dividend in  full  on  or  within  21  business 
days  after  that  dividend  payment  date,  (b)  an  optional 

 

 

dividend  equal  to 
the  unpaid  amount  of  scheduled 
dividends for the 12 consecutive calendar months prior to 
the payment of such dividend or (c) dividends on the Bank 
preference  shares  in  full  on  each  dividend  payment  date 
during a 12 consecutive month period; 
In  the  case  of  any  non-payment  of  interest  on  the 
subordinated notes on any interest payment date, (a) on or 
within 21 business days after any interest payment date, (i) 
the  Bank’s  New  Zealand  subsidiary  or  the  Bank’s  New 
Zealand  branch,  as  guarantor,  has  paid  in  full  to  the 
holders  of  the  subordinated  notes  any  interest  and  other 
amounts  owing  in  respect  of  that  interest  payment  date 
(excluding  defaulted  note  interest)  through  the  date  of 
actual  payment  in  full  or  (ii)  with  the  prior  approval  of 
APRA,  the  Bank  has  paid  in  full  to  holders  of  the 
subordinated  notes  an  assignment  prevention  optional 
dividend in an amount equal to such interest and any other 
amounts, or (b) the Bank has paid dividends on the Bank 
preference  shares  in  full  on  each  dividend  payment  date 
during a 12 consecutive month period; and 

In the case of any non-payment of the redemption price or 
non-delivery  of  the  securities  payable  or  deliverable  with 
respect  to  Bank  preference  shares  or  the  trust  preferred 
securities,  such  redemption  price  or  securities  have  been 
paid  or  delivered  in  full,  as  applicable;  then  there  are 
restrictions  on  the  Bank  paying  any  interest  on  equal 
ranking or junior securities. 

(8) AUD denominated Tier Two Loan Capital issuances  

 

$275 million extendible floating rate note issued December 
1989, due December 2014. 

The  Bank  has  entered  into  a  separate  agreement  with  the 
Commonwealth  of  Australia  relating  to  the  above  issue  (the 
“Agreement”)  which  provides  that,  if  certain  events  occur,  the 
Bank  may  issue  either  fully  paid  ordinary  shares  to  the 
Commonwealth  of  Australia  or  (with  the  consent  of  the 
Commonwealth of Australia) a renounceable rights issue for fully 
paid ordinary shares to all shareholders, at the prevailing market 
price  for  the  Bank’s  shares,  up  to  an  amount  equal  to  the 
outstanding  principal  value  of  the  note  issue  plus  any  accrued 
interest  declared  due  and  payable.  The  capital  so  raised  must 
be used to pay the amounts due and payable. Events that will 
trigger the  issue  of shares include a  failure to  pay  interest  due 
within 7 business days of the due date. 

Other outstanding notes at 30 June 2012 were: 

 

 

$25 million subordinated FRN, issued April 1999, due April 
2029; 

$500  million  subordinated  floating  rate  notes,  issued 
September 2008, due September 2018. 

(9) USD denominated Tier Two Loan Capital issuances 

 

USD350 million subordinated fixed rate note, issued June 
2003, due June 2018; 

(10) JPY denominated Tier Two Loan Capital issuances 

 

 

 

 

 

issued 

JPY20  billion  perpetual  subordinated  EMTN, 
February 1999; 
JPY30  billion  subordinated  EMTN,  issued  October  1995 
due October 2015; 
JPY10 billion subordinated notes, issued November 2005, 
due November 2035; 
JPY5  billion  subordinated  loan,  issued  March  2006,  due 
March 2018; and 

JPY9  billion  perpetual  subordinated  notes,  issued  May 
1996. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

157 

 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 25 Loan Capital (continued) 

(11) GBP denominated Tier Two Loan Capital issuances 

GBP150  million  subordinated  EMTN,  issued  June  2003,  due 
December 2023. 

(12) Other currencies Tier Two Loan Capital issuances 

 

 

 

EUR1,000 million subordinated notes, issued August 2009, 
due August 2019; 
CAD300 million subordinated notes, issued October 2007, 
due October 2017; 
NZD350 million subordinated notes, issued May 2005, due 
April 2015. 
On 18 May 2005 a wholly owned entity of the Bank (CBA 
Capital  Australia  Limited) 
issued  NZD350  million 
redeemable 
redeemable  preference  shares.  Each 
preference share is a fixed term obligation of CBA Capital 
Australia  Limited  paying  quarterly  cumulative  dividends 
until maturity. The redeemable preference shares: 
- 
-  Were issued into the New Zealand capital markets; 
- 

Are  subject  to  New  Zealand  and  New  South  Wales 
law; and 
Form part of the Bank’s Lower Tier Two capital. 

Are not guaranteed by the Bank; 

- 

CBA Capital Australia applied all of the proceeds from the 
sale  of  the  redeemable  preference  shares  to  invest  in 
redeemable  preference  shares  issued  by  CBA  Capital 
Australia  (No  2)  Pty  Ltd,  which  in  turn  invested  the 
proceeds in NZD subordinated notes issued by the Bank’s 
New Zealand branch.  
The Dividend Rate is calculated for each Dividend Period 
as the sum of the Margin per annum plus the Market Rate 
per  annum  multiplied  by  (1  –  Tax  Rate).  The  Margin  is 
0.75%  per  annum.  The  Market  Rate  is  the  New  Zealand 
one year swap rate. CBA Capital Australia’s ability to pay 
dividends  is  ultimately  dependent  upon  the  ability  of  the 
Bank’s  New  Zealand  branch  to  make  payments  on  the 
NZD  subordinated  notes,  and  subject  to  the  directors 
discretion not to pay or to defer the payment.  
The redeemable preference shares are to be redeemed or 
repurchased  by  CBA  Capital  Australia  on  15  April  2015. 
Subject  to  APRA  approval  and  the  requisite  notice,  CBA 
Capital  Australia  is  also  entitled  to  redeem  or  repurchase 
the redeemable preference shares earlier on each 15 April 
until maturity, or if a regulatory or tax event occurs.  
NZD370  million  subordinated  notes,  issued  November 
2007, due November 2017. 

 

158 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

 Note 26 Shareholders’ Equity 

 (1) Refer to Note 27. 
(2) The Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Count Financial Limited during the year for a purchase consideration of $372 million. This was in part funded by 

the issue of $237 million (5,042,949) of ordinary shares.  

(3) The declared dividend includes an amount attributable to DRP of $531 million (interim 2011/2012) and $831 million (final 2010/2011). These amounts have been issued 
in ordinary shares under the plan rules. The DRP in respect of the 2009/2010 final dividend was satisfied in full through an on market purchase and transfer of $679 
million of ordinary shares to participating shareholders. 

(4) Relates to movement in treasury shares held within life insurance statutory funds and the employee share scheme trust. 

(5) Dividends relating to equity instruments on issue other than ordinary shares. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

159 

GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MOrdinary Share Capital (1)Opening balance23,60223,08123,89623,379Issue of shares (2)237-237-Dividend reinvestment plan (net of issue costs) (3)1,3635111,363511Exercise of executive options under employee share ownership schemes2626Purchase of treasury shares (4)(96)(69)--Sale and vesting of treasury shares (4)6773--Closing balance25,17523,60225,49823,896Other Equity Instruments (1)Opening balance9399391,8951,895Closing balance9399391,8951,895Retained ProfitsOpening balance11,8269,9389,5937,880Actuarial losses from defined benefit superannuation plans(223)(89)(223)(89)Realised gains and dividend income on treasury shares (1)1320--Operating profit attributable to Equity holders of the Bank7,0906,3946,4616,480Total available for appropriation18,70616,26315,83114,271Transfers (to)/from general reserve(223)270--Transfers from employee compensation reserve(1)-(1)-Interim dividend - cash component(1,635)(1,532)(1,635)(1,532)Interim dividend - dividend reinvestment plan (3)(531)(513)(531)(513)Final dividend - cash component(2,099)(2,633)(2,099)(2,633)Final dividend - dividend reinvestment plan (3)(831)-(831)-Other dividends (5)(30)(29)--Closing balance13,35611,82610,7349,593 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 26 Shareholders’ Equity (continued) 

160 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group Bank 2012201120122011Reserves$M $M $M $M General ReserveOpening balance9781,248570570Appropriation from/(to) retained profits223(270)--Closing balance1,201978570570Capital ReserveOpening balance3283191,5761,567Revaluation surplus on sale of property239189Closing balance3513281,5941,576Asset Revaluation ReserveOpening balance191194163163Revaluation of properties32659Transfers on sale of properties(23)(9)(18)(9)Tax on revaluation of properties(5)---Closing balance195191150163Foreign Currency Translation ReserveOpening balance(1,083)(553)(330)(136)Currency translation adjustments of foreign operations199(559)76(216)Currency translation on net investment hedge313412Tax on translation adjustments(12)16(10)10Closing balance(893)(1,083)(260)(330)Cash Flow Hedge ReserveOpening balance(402)(417)(387)(312)Gains and losses on cash flow hedging instruments:Recognised in other comprehensive income730(754)847(748)Transferred to Income Statement:Interest income(354)(41)(254)24Interest expense1,112810796626Tax on cash flow hedging instruments(442)-(415)23Closing balance644(402)587(387)Employee Compensation ReserveOpening balance135125135125Current period movement110110Closing balance136135136135Available-for-Sale Investments ReserveOpening balance24517323770Net gains and losses on revaluation of available-for-sale investments(349)124(315)264Net gains and losses on available-for-sale investments transferred toIncome Statement on disposal(81)(24)(86)(24)Tax on available-for-sale investments122(28)119(73)Closing balance(63)245(45)237Total Reserves1,5713922,7321,964Shareholders' Equity attributable to Equity holders of the Bank41,04136,75940,85937,348Shareholders' Equity attributable to Non-controlling interests531528--Total Shareholders' Equity41,57237,28740,85937,348 
 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 27 Share Capital 

 (1) The Group acquired 100% of the issue of share capital of Count Financial Limited during the year for a purchase consideration of $372 million. This was in part 

funded by the issue of 5,042,949 ordinary shares. 

(2) The gross dividend entitlement in respect of the DRP for the 2010/2011 final dividend was $831 million, with $832 million ordinary shares issued under the plan rules, 
which include the carry forward of DRP balances from previous dividends. The DRP in respect of the 2009//2010 final dividend was satisfied in full through an on 
market purchase and transfer of $679 million of ordinary shares to participating shareholders. 

(3) The gross dividend entitlement in respect of the DRP for the 2010/2011 interim dividend was $531 million, with $531 million ordinary shares issued under the plan 

rules. 

(4) Relates to treasury shares held within life insurance statutory funds and the employee share scheme trust. 

  (1) The Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Count Financial Limited during the year for a purchase consideration of $372 million. This was part funded by 

the issue of 5,042,949 CBA ordinary shares. 

(2) The DRP in respect of the 2010 final dividend was satisfied in full by an on market purchase and transfer of shares to participating shareholders. 

Ordinary Share Capital  

Ordinary shares have no par value and the Company does not have a limited amount of share capital. 

Ordinary shares entitle holders to receive dividends payable to ordinary shareholders and to participate in the proceeds available to 
ordinary shareholders on winding up of the Company in proportion to the number of fully paid ordinary shares held. 

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

Trust Preferred Securities 2006 

On  15  March  2006 the Bank issued  USD700 million  ($947 million)  of  trust  preferred  securities  into the U.S. capital markets. These 
securities offer a non-cumulative fixed rate of distribution of 6.024% per annum payable semi-annually. 

These securities qualify as Tier One Capital of the Bank. A related instrument was issued by the Bank to a subsidiary for $956 million 
and eliminates on consolidation. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

161 

Group Bank 2012201120122011Issued and paid up ordinary capital$M $M $M $M Ordinary Share CapitalOpening balance (excluding Treasury Shares deduction)23,89623,37923,89623,379Issue of shares (1)237-237-Dividend reinvestment plan: Final dividend prior year (2)832-832-Dividend reinvestment plan: Interim dividend (3)531511531511Exercise of executive options under employee share ownership schemes2626Closing balance (excluding Treasury Shares deduction)25,49823,89625,49823,896Less: Treasury Shares (4)(323)(294)--Closing balance25,17523,60225,49823,896Group Bank 2012201120122011Number of shares on issueShares Shares Shares Shares Opening balance (excluding Treasury Shares deduction)1,558,637,2441,548,737,3741,558,637,2441,548,737,374Issue of shares (1)5,042,949-5,042,949-Dividend reinvestment plan issues:2009/2010 Final dividend fully paid ordinary shares $51.75 (2)----2010/2011 Interim dividend fully paid ordinary shares $52.92-9,682,670-9,682,6702010/2011 Final dividend fully paid ordinary shares $47.4817,524,300-17,524,300-2011/2012 Interim dividend fully paid ordinary shares $48.8110,874,187-10,874,187-Exercise of executive options under employee share ownership schemes76,100217,20076,100217,200Closing balance (excluding Treasury Shares deduction)1,592,154,7801,558,637,2441,592,154,7801,558,637,244Less: Treasury Shares(6,874,405)(6,363,549)--Closing balance1,585,280,3751,552,273,6951,592,154,7801,558,637,244Group  Bank 2012201120122011Other equity instruments$M $M $M $M Issued and paid up9399391,8951,895Shares Shares Shares Shares Number of shares700,000700,0001,400,0001,400,000 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 27 Share Capital (continued) 

Dividends 

The  Directors  have  declared  a  fully  franked  final  dividend  of  197  cents  per  share  amounting  to  $3,137  million.  The  dividend  will  be 
payable on 5 October 2012 to shareholders on the register at 5pm EST on 24 August 2012.  

The Board determines the  dividends  based  on the  Group’s  net  profit  after tax  (“cash basis”)  per share,  having  regard to  a  range of 
factors including: 

 
 
 
 
 

Current and expected rates of business growth and the mix of business; 
Capital needs to support economic, regulatory and credit ratings requirements; 
Investments and/or divestments to support business development; 
Competitors comparison and market expectation; and 
Earnings per share growth. 

Dividends paid since the end of the previous financial year 

 

 

A  fully  franked  final  dividend  of  188  cents  per  share  amounting  to  $2,930  million  was  paid  on  6  October  2011.  The  payment 
comprised cash disbursements of $2,099 million with $831 million being reinvested by participants through the DRP; and 

A  fully  franked  interim  dividend  of  137  cents  per  share  amounting  to  $2,166  million  was  paid  on  5  April  2012.  The  payment 
comprised cash disbursements of $1,635 million with $531 million being reinvested by participants through the DRP. 

Dividend Reinvestment Plan 

The Bank expects to issue around $784 million of shares in respect of the DRP for the final dividend for the year ended 30 June 2012. 

Record date 

The register closes for determination of dividend entitlement and for participation in the DRP at 5pm EST on  24 August 2012 at Link 
Market Services Limited, Locked Bag A14, Sydney South, 1235. 

Ex-dividend Date 

The ex-dividend date is 20 August 2012. 

Note 28 Share Based Payments 

The Group operates a number of cash and equity settled share plans as detailed below. 

Employee Share Acquisition Plan 

Under the Employee Share Acquisition Plan (ESAP), eligible employees have the opportunity to receive up to $1,000 worth of shares 
each year (at no cost to them) if the Group meets the required performance hurdles.  

To  be  eligible for an  award  each  employee must  achieve  a minimum  level  of  performance and service.  The  value of  the shares  an 
individual receives is determined by the Group’s performance against a hurdle. The performance hurdle is growth in the Group’s net 
profit after tax (“cash basis”) of the greater of 5% or the consumer price index (CPI) change plus 2%. If the hurdle is not met, the Board 
has discretion to determine whether a full award, a partial award or no award is made. 

The  number  of shares  a  participant  receives is  calculated  by  dividing  the  award  amount  by the  average  price  paid  for Bank shares 
purchased during the purchase period preceding the grant date. Shares granted are restricted from sale until the earlier of three years or 
until such time as the participant ceases employment with the Group. Participants receive full dividend entitlements and voting rights 
attached to those shares. The Group achieved the performance target for 2011 resulting in $1,000 worth of shares being awarded to 
each eligible employee during the financial year ended 30 June 2012. 

The following table provides details of shares granted under the ESAP during the current and previous financial years ended 30 June.  

It is estimated that approximately $22.8 million of ordinary shares will be purchased on-market at the prevailing market price for the 2012 
grant. For the 2012 grant the performance hurdle has been simplified to be growth in the Group’s net profit after tax (“cash basis”) of 
greater than 5% (with the Board retaining its discretion in scenarios where the hurdle has not been met). 

162 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Number of sharesTotal numberTotalPeriodAllocation dateParticipants allocated by participant of shares allocatedIssue price $fair value $20129 Sep 201127,46521576,76546.9127,056,046201121 Sep 201026,02319494,43751.7525,587,115 
 
 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 28 Share Based Payments (continued) 

International Employee Share Acquisition Plan 

A  limited  number  of  employees  receive  cash-based  versions  of  ESAP  under  the  International  Employee  Share  Acquisition  Plan 
(IESAP).  Like  the  ESAP,  eligible  employees  can  receive  an  award  up  to  $1,000  determined  by  the  Group’s  performance  against  a 
hurdle. The performance hurdle is the same as that which applies to ESAP. To be eligible for an award each employee must achieve a 
minimum level of performance and service. Under IESAP participants receive grants of performance units, which are monetary units 
with a value linked to the Bank’s share price.  

A total of $1.1 million has been expensed during the year (2011: $0.1 million) in respect of this plan. 

Employee Share Plan 

The Employee Share Plan (ESP) facilitates mandatory short term incentive (STI) deferral, sign-on incentives and retention awards.  

Under the ESP, shares awarded generally vest if the participant remains in employment of the Group until the vesting date. The Group 
purchases fully paid ordinary shares and holds these in trust until such time as the vesting conditions are met. ESP shares receive full 
dividend and voting rights. Participants may direct the Trustee on how the voting rights are to be exercised during the vesting period. 
Dividends accrue in the trust and are paid to participants upon vesting of the shares. Where a participant does not satisfy the vesting 
conditions, shares and dividend rights are forfeited. 

The following table provides details of outstanding awards of shares under the ESP. 

The weighted average fair value at grant date of shares awarded during the year was $48.32 (2011: $52.64). A total of $35.7 million has 
been expensed during the year (2011: $16.2 million) in respect of this plan. 

Employee Share (Performance Unit) Plan 

A limited number of employees receive awards under a cash-based version of ESP through the Employee Share (Performance Unit) 
Plan (ESPUP). The ESPUP replaced the Equity Participation (Performance Unit) Plan for awards made from 1 July 2010 and facilitates 
mandatory STI deferral, sign-on incentives and retention awards. Under ESPUP participants receive grants of performance units, which 
are monetary units with a value linked to the Bank’s share price. Performance units vest if the participant remains employed by the 
Group until the vesting date. 

On meeting the vesting conditions, a cash payment is made to the participant, the value of which is determined based on the Bank’s 
share price upon vesting plus an accrued dividend value. 

The following table provides details of outstanding awards of performance units granted under the ESPUP. 

The weighted average fair value at grant date of performance units issued during the year was $46.45 (2011: $51.72). A total of $6.9 
million has been expensed during the year (2011: $1.0 million) in respect of this plan. 

Group Employee Rights Plan 

The  Group  Employee  Rights  Plan  (GERP)  facilitates  the  mandatory  STI  deferral,  sign-on  incentives  and  retention  awards  for 
executives of selected subsidiary companies. Under the GERP, participants receive a right to a share which is subject to vesting 
conditions. The following table provides details of rights granted under GERP during the current and previous financial years ended 
30 June. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

163 

OutstandingOutstandingPeriod1 JulyGrantedVestedForfeited30 JuneJuly 2010 - June 2011772,268-(127,129)(32,440)612,699July 2011 - June 2012-1,108,959(52,144)(34,625)1,022,190Total 2012772,2681,108,959(179,273)(67,065)1,634,889Total 2011-803,400(17,679)(13,453)772,268OutstandingOutstandingPeriod1 JulyGrantedVestedForfeited30 JuneJuly 2010 - June 201195,643-(31,700)-63,943July 2011 - June 2012-138,982(42,727)(908)95,347Total 201295,643138,982(74,427)(908)159,290Total 2011-101,548(4,116)(1,789)95,643OutstandingOutstandingAllocation period  1 JulyGrantedVestedForfeited30 JuneJuly 2009 - June 201010,021-(1,628)(1,806)6,587July 2010 - June 201121,068-(878)(2,330)17,860July 2011 - June 2012-39,134(1,976)(1,662)35,496Total 201231,08939,134(4,482)(5,798)59,943Total 201111,54221,946(2,399)-31,089 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 28 Share Based Payments (continued) 

The weighted average fair value at grant date of rights issued during the year was $48.08 (2011: $52.62). A total of $1.0 million has 
been expensed during the year (2011: $0.6 million) in respect of this plan. 

Employee Salary Sacrifice Share Plan 

Under  the  Employee  Salary  Sacrifice  Share  Plan  (ESSSP),  Australian-based  employees  can  elect  to  receive  between  $2,000  and 
$5,000 of their fixed remuneration and/or annual STI as Bank shares. Shares are purchased on-market at the current market price and 
are restricted from sale for a minimum of two years and a maximum of seven years or earlier, if the employee ceases employment with 
the Group. Shares receive full dividend entitlements and voting rights. 

The following table provides details of shares granted under the ESSSP. 

Equity Participation Plan 

The  Equity  Participation  Plan  (EPP)  facilitated  the  partial  deferral  of  executives  STI  payments,  together  with  sign-on  and  retention 
awards. Shares only vest to participants if they remain in employment of the Group until the vesting date. The Group purchased fully 
paid ordinary shares and holds these in trust until such time as the vesting conditions are met. Shares receive full dividend and voting 
rights. Participants may direct the Trustee on how the voting rights are to be exercised during the vesting period. Dividends accrue in the 
trust and are paid to participants upon vesting of the shares. Where a participant does not satisfy the vesting conditions, shares and 
dividend rights are forfeited.  The EPP was closed to new offers in 2010. 

The following table provides details of outstanding awards of shares under the mandatory component of EPP 

(1) No awards were allocated from July 2005 to June 2007. 

A total of $11.0 million has been expensed during the year (2011: $23.6 million). 

Equity Participation (Performance Unit) Plan 

 A  limited  number  of  employees  received  cash-based  versions  of  EPP  through  the  Equity  Participation  (Performance  Unit)  Plan 
(EPPUP). The EPPUP was closed to new offers in 2010. 

Under the EPPUP, participants received grants of performance units, which are monetary units with a value linked to the Bank’s 
share price. The EPPUP performance units vest if the participant remains employed by the Group until the vesting date. On meeting 
the vesting conditions, a cash payment is made to the participant, the value of which is determined based on the Bank’s share price 
upon vesting plus an accrued dividend value. 

The following table provides details of outstanding awards of performance units under the EPPUP: 

A total of $1.0 million (2011: $1.2 million) has been expensed during the year. 

164 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

PeriodParticipantsNumber of shares purchasedAverage share price $Total purchase consideration $201222714,31449.33706,10920111328,11451.98421,766OutstandingVested &OutstandingAllocation period1 JulyGrantedReleasedForfeited30 JuneJuly 2001- June 200225,674-(25,674)--July 2002- June 200327,001-(3,686)-23,315July 2003- June 200435,352-(7,674)-27,678July 2004- June 2005 (1)29,914-(6,118)-23,796July 2007- June 200833,379-(6,229)-27,150July 2008- June 2009597,869-(549,525)-48,344July 2009- June 2010697,117-(136,439)(24,561)536,117Total 20121,446,306-(735,345)(24,561)686,400Total 20112,129,612-(639,214)(44,092)1,446,306OutstandingOutstandingAllocation period1 JulyGrantedVestedForfeited30 JuneJuly 2008 - June 200915,590-(15,590)--July 2009 - June 201043,383---43,383Total 201258,973-(15,590)-43,383Total 2011105,750-(38,561)(8,216)58,973 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 28 Share Based Payments (continued) 

Group Leadership Reward Plan  

The Group Leadership Reward Plan (GLRP) is the Group’s long term incentive plan for the CEO and Group Executives. The GLRP aims 
to motivate the efforts of participants to support customer satisfaction and shareholder returns in order to improve long term value and 
achieve the Group’s vision.  

Under the GLRP, participants are awarded a maximum number of Reward Rights that may vest at the end of a performance period of up 
to  four  years  subject  to  the  satisfaction  of  performance  hurdles.  Each  Reward  Right  that  vests  entitles  the  participant  to  receive  one 
ordinary Bank share. The Board has discretion to apply a cash equivalent.  

Vesting is subject to the satisfaction of certain performance hurdles as follows. 

For the award made during the 2010 financial year (FY10 award): 

 
 

50% of the award assessed against Customer Satisfaction compared to a set peer group; and 
50% of the award assessed against Total Shareholder Return (TSR) compared to a set peer group. 

For awards made from the 2011 financial year onwards (FY11 & FY12 awards): 

 
 

25% of the award assessed against Customer Satisfaction compared to a set peer group; and 
75% of the award assessed against TSR compared to a set peer group. 

The Customer Satisfaction peer group consists of the ANZ, NAB, St George (FY10 award only) and Westpac (for the Group’s retail and 
business banking lines) and other key competitors.  

The TSR peer group for all awards comprises the 20 largest companies listed on the ASX (by market capitalisation) at the beginning of 
each respective performance period, excluding resources companies and CBA.  

Customer satisfaction is determined by the Board with reference to independent external surveys, and TSR is measured independently.  

The Board applies a scale when determining the portion of each award to vest at the end of the performance period as follows: 

 

 

For the FY10 award, the portion of the award assessed against Customer Satisfaction that will vest is: 100% if CBA is ranked 1st, 
75% if CBA is ranked 2nd, and 50% if CBA is ranked 3rd, with no vesting below this level.  

For the FY11 and FY12 awards, the portion of the awards assessed against Customer Satisfaction that will vest is: 100% if CBA is 
ranked 1st across three surveys, 75% if CBA is ranked 1st across two surveys, and 50% if CBA is ranked 2nd across the three 
surveys. The Board will exercise discretion where CBA’s Customer Satisfaction has improved over the performance period, but in a 
different combination. Where the Board determines that the overall performance is worse at the end of the performance period than 
at the beginning, none of this portion will vest. 

For the portion of the awards assessed against TSR performance, full vesting applies where CBA is ranked in the top quartile of the peer 
group at the end of the performance period, 50% will vest if CBA is ranked at the median, with vesting on a sliding scale between the 
median and 75th percentile. No Reward Rights in this part of the award will vest if the Group’s TSR is ranked below the median of the 
peer group. The total number of Reward Rights that vest will be the aggregate of rights that vest against the Customer Satisfaction and 
the TSR hurdles at the end of the performance period.  

For the introductory year (2009), the awards under the GLRP were split into two tranches, with 50% allocated as a transitional three year 
performance period and 50% allocated with a four year performance period. This transitional award reflects the move from the Group’s 
previous long term incentives arrangements that measured performance over a three year period. The transitional award is subject to the 
same performance hurdles as the four year award. 

The following table provides details of outstanding awards of performance rights under the GLRP. 

The weighted average fair value at the grant date of all Reward Rights issued during the year was $36.13 per right (2011: $41.41). The 
fair value of TSR hurdled Reward Rights granted during the period has been independently calculated at grant date using a Monte-Carlo 
pricing  model.  The  assumptions  included  in  the  valuation  of  the  FY12  award  includes  a  risk  free  interest  rate  ranging  from  4.18%  to 
4.69%, a nil dividend yield on the Bank’s ordinary shares and a volatility in the Bank share price of 30.0%. The fair value for customer 
satisfaction hurdled Reward Rights granted during the period is the closing price of Bank shares on the grant date. 

A total of $18.8 million has been expensed in the current year (2011: $11.9 million) for GLRP. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

165 

Performance PerformanceOutstandingOutstandingperiod start datetest date1 JulyGrantedVestedForfeited30 June 1 July 200930 June 2012370,297---370,297 1 July 200930 June 2013523,919---523,919 1 July 201030 June 2014388,412---388,412 1 July 201130 June 2015-416,986--416,986Total 20121,282,628416,986--1,699,614Total 2011894,216388,412--1,282,628 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 28 Share Based Payments (continued) 

Group Leadership Share Plan 

The Group Leadership Share Plan (GLSP) was the Group’s previous long term incentive plan for the CEO and Group Executives with 
awards made during the 2008 financial year (FY08) and 2009 financial year (FY09), after which it was replaced by the GLRP. Under the 
GLSP,  participants  shared  a  pool  that  vested  at  the  end  of  a  three  year  performance  period  subject  to  satisfaction  of  performance 
conditions.  The  pool  for  the  FY09  award  was  3.5%  of  the  growth  in  the  Group’s  Profit  After  Capital  Charge  (PACC),  capped  at  a 
maximum pool of $36.1 million.  

Vesting for each award was subject to the following performance hurdles: 

 
 

NPAT growth over the three year performance period being above the average NPAT growth of ANZ, NAB, and Westpac; and 
Customer satisfaction ranking relative to ANZ, NAB, St George and Westpac. 

Independent external surveys were used to determine the Group’s level of achievement against the customer satisfaction performance 
hurdle. A ranking was determined by the Board and a vesting scale applied.  

The  FY09  award  reached  the  end  of  its  performance  period  on  1  July  2011  and  the  Board  determined  that  25%  of  the  FY09  award 
maximum pool would vest. 

Bank shares were provided to participants in relation to the vested awards. The number of shares was determined by the value  of the 
pool that vested at the end of the performance period and the share price at the end of the relevant performance period. 

A total of $9.0 million has been reversed in the current year (2011: $6.6 million expensed) for GLSP. 

Equity Reward Plan 

The Equity Reward Plan (ERP) was the Group’s long term incentive plan for executives until the final grants were made in 2006. Under 
the ERP executives could receive awards of shares or options. 

The final ERP award reached the end of its performance period during the 2010 financial year. Vested awards may remain in the ERP for 
up to 10 years from the date they are granted, and are subject to holding locks during that period. 

The following table provides details of outstanding awards of shares under the ERP. 

No amount has been expensed in the current or prior year. 

 year for ERP. 
Details of movements in ERP options are as follows: 

The weighted average share price at the date of exercise during the period was $48.12 (2011: $51.69). 

166 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

OutstandingOutstandingAllocation period  1 JulyGrantedReleasedForfeited30 JuneJuly 2001 - June 20025,500-(5,500)--July 2002 - June 20031,650---1,650July 2003 - June 200416,750-(1,250)-15,500July 2004 - June 200513,500---13,500July 2005 - June 200632,780---32,780July 2006 - June 2007139,410-(100,510)-38,900Total 2012209,590-(107,260)-102,330Total 2011327,668-(118,078)-209,590LatestExerciseOutstandingOutstanding andYear of grantexercise dateprice $1 JulyGrantedExercisedLapsedexercisable 30 June20013 Sept 201130.1286,100-(76,100)(10,000)-Total 201286,100-(76,100)(10,000)-Weighted average exercise price ($)30.12-30.1230.12-Total 2011289,100-(203,000)-86,100Weighted average exercise price ($)29.41-29.11-30.12 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 28 Share Based Payments (continued) 

Non-Executive Directors Share Plan  
The Non-Executive Directors Share Plan (NEDSP) facilitates the Non-Executive Directors’ (NEDs): 

 

 

Acquisition of shares using 20% of their post-tax fees. Effective from 1 January 2012, the compulsory participation in the NEDSP 
ceased for all current NEDs who hold 5,000 or more shares. For those NEDs who have holdings below this threshold, the 20% 
deferral of base fees will continue to apply until the 5,000 level has been reached; and  
Further voluntary fee sacrifice of between $2,000 and $5,000 p.a. on a pre-tax basis. 

Shares acquired using after tax fees are restricted for sale for ten years or until such time as the Non-Executive Director retires from the 
Board if earlier. Shares acquired voluntarily are restricted from sale for a minimum of two years and a maximum of seven years,  or 
earlier if the Non-Executive Director retires from the Board.  

Shares are purchased on-market at the prevailing market price at that time, and rank equally for dividends with other Bank ordinary 
shares. 

For the current year $0.2 million (2011: $0.3 million) was expensed reflecting shares purchased and allocated under the NEDSP. 

Note 29 Non-Controlling Interests 

The  share  capital  above  comprises  predominantly  New  Zealand  Perpetual  Preference  Shares  (PPS)  of  AUD505  million.  On  10 
December  2002,  ASB  Capital  Limited,  a  New  Zealand subsidiary,  issued  NZD200 million  (AUD182 million)  of  PPS.  The PPS  were 
issued into the New Zealand capital markets and are subject to New Zealand law. Such shares are non-redeemable and carry limited 
voting  rights.  Dividends  are  payable  quarterly  based  on  the  New  Zealand  one  year swap  rate  plus  a margin  of  1.3%  and  are  non-
cumulative. The payments of dividends are subject to a number of conditions including the satisfaction of solvency tests and the ability 
of the Board to cancel payments. 

On 22 December 2004, ASB Capital No.2 Limited, a New Zealand subsidiary, issued NZD350 million (AUD323 million) of PPS. The 
PPS were issued into the New Zealand capital markets and are subject to New Zealand law. Such shares are non-redeemable and 
carry limited voting rights. Dividends are payable quarterly on the New Zealand one year swap rate plus a margin of 1.0% and are non-
cumulative. The payments of dividends are subject to a number of conditions including the satisfaction of solvency tests and the ability 
of the Board to cancel payments. 

ASB Capital Limited and ASB Capital No.2 Limited have advanced proceeds from the above public issues to ASB Funding Limited, a 
New Zealand subsidiary. ASB Funding Limited in turn invested the proceeds in PPS issued by ASB (ASB PPS), also a New Zealand 
subsidiary. In relation to ASB Capital No.2 Limited, if an APRA Event occurs, the loan to ASB Funding Limited will be repaid and ASB 
Capital No.2 Limited will become the holder of the corresponding ASB PPS. 

The PPS may be purchased by a Commonwealth Bank subsidiary exercising a buy-out right five years or more after issue, or on the 
occurrence of regulatory or tax events. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

167 

Total fees appliedNumber of sharesAverage purchase pricePeriod  $Participants purchased$2012175,449103,67347.772011289,60695,40453.59Group 20122011$M $M Shareholders' equity531528Total non-controlling interests531528 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 30 Capital Adequacy  

Capital Management 

The Bank is an Authorised Deposit-taking Institution (ADI) and is 
subject to regulation by APRA under the authority of the Banking 
regulatory  capital 
Act  1959.  APRA  has  set  minimum 
requirements for banks that are consistent with the International 
Convergence of Capital Measurement and Capital Standards: A 
Revised  Framework  (Basel  II)  issued  by  the  Basel  Committee 
on  Banking  Supervision.  These  requirements  define  what  is 
acceptable  as  capital  and  provide  methods  of  measuring  the 
risks incurred by the Bank.  

The  regulatory  capital  requirements  are  measured  for  the 
Extended  Licence  Entity  Group  (known  as  “Level  One”, 
comprising the Bank and APRA approved subsidiaries) and for 
the  Bank  and  all  of  its  banking  subsidiaries  (known  as  “Level 
Two”  or  the  “Group”),  which  includes  both  Bankwest  and  ASB 
Bank (known as “Level Two” or the “Group”). 

All entities which are consolidated for accounting purposes are 
included within the Group capital adequacy calculations except 
for: 

 
 

The insurance and funds management operations; and 
The  entities  through  which  securitisation  of  Group  assets 
are conducted. 

Regulatory capital is divided into Tier One and Tier Two Capital. 
Tier One Capital primarily consists of Shareholders’ Equity plus 
other capital instruments acceptable to APRA, less goodwill and 
other  prescribed  deductions.  Tier  Two  Capital  is  comprised 
primarily  of  hybrid  and  debt  instruments  acceptable  to  APRA 
less any prescribed deductions. Total Capital is the aggregate of 

Tier  One  and  Tier  Two  Capital.  A  detailed  breakdown  of  the 
components of capital is detailed on pages 45 to 47. 

The tangible component of the investment in the insurance and 
funds management  operations  are  deducted  from capital,  50% 
from Tier One and 50% from Tier Two. 

Capital adequacy is measured by means of a risk based capital 
ratio.  The  capital  ratios  reflect  capital  (Tier  One,  Tier  Two  or 
Total  Capital)  as  a  percentage  of  total  Risk  Weighted  Assets 
(RWA).  RWA  represents  an  allocation  of  risks  associated  with 
the Group’s assets and other related exposures. 

The  Group  has  a  range  of  instruments  and  methodologies 
available  to  effectively  manage  capital  including  share  issues 
and buybacks, dividend and dividend reinvestment plan policies, 
hybrid capital raising and dated and undated subordinated debt 
issues. All major capital related initiatives require approval of the 
Board. 

The Group’s capital position is monitored on a continuous basis 
and reported monthly to the ALCO. Three year capital forecasts 
are  conducted  on  a  quarterly  basis  and  a  detailed  capital  and 
strategy plan is presented to the Board annually. 

The  Group’s  capital  ratios  throughout  the  2011  and  2012 
financial  years  were  in  compliance  with  both  APRA  minimum 
capital  adequacy  requirements  and 
the  Board  Approved 
minimums. The Bank is required to inform APRA immediately of 
any breach or potential breach of its minimum prudential capital 
adequacy  requirements,  including  details  of  remedial  action 
taken or planned to be taken. 

168 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 31 Financial Reporting by Segments 

The principal activities of the Group are carried out in the below 
business segments. These segments are based on the types of 
products and services provided to customers.  

The  primary  sources  of  revenue  are  interest  and  fee  income 
(Retail  Banking  Services,  Institutional  Banking  and  Markets, 
Business  and  Private  Banking,  Bankwest,  New  Zealand  and 
Other  Divisions)  and 
funds 
management  income  (Wealth  Management,  New  Zealand  and 
Other Divisions).  

insurance  premium  and 

Revenues  and  expenses  occurring  between  segments  are 
subject  to  transfer  pricing  arrangements.  All  intra-group  profits 
are eliminated on consolidation.  

Business segments are managed on the basis of net profit after 
income  tax  (“cash  basis”).  Management  use  “cash  basis”  to 
assess  performance  and 
the 
determination of the Bank’s dividends. 

it  provides 

the  basis 

for 

(i) Retail Banking Services 

Retail  Banking  Services  includes  both  the  origination  of  home 
loan, consumer finance and retail deposit products and the sales 
and  servicing  of  all  Retail  bank  customers.  In  addition, 
commission  is  received  for  the  distribution  of  business  and 
wealth  management  products  through  the  retail  distribution 
network.  

(ii) Business and Private Banking 

Business  and  Private  Banking  provides  specialised  banking 
services  to  relationship  managed  business  and  Agribusiness 
customers,  private  banking  to  high  net  worth  individuals  and 
margin  lending  and  trading  through  CommSec.  In  addition, 
commission  is  received  for  the  distribution  of  retail  banking 
products through the Business and Private Banking network.  

(iii) Institutional Banking and Markets 

Institutional  Banking  and  Markets  services  the  Group’s  major 
institutional  and  government  clients,  creating 
corporate, 
customised  solutions  based  on  specific  needs,  industry  trends 
and  market  conditions.  The  Total  Capital  Solutions  offering 
financial  and 
includes  debt  and  equity  capital 

raising, 

Notes to the Financial Statements 

commodities  risk  management  and 
transactional  banking 
capabilities.  This  segment  has  international  operations  in 
London,  Malta,  New  York,  New  Zealand,  Singapore,  Hong 
Kong, Japan and Shanghai. 

(iv) Wealth Management 

Wealth  Management  includes  the  Global  Asset  Management 
(including  operations 
in  Asia  and  Europe),  Platform 
Administration and Financial Advice, as well as Life and General 
Insurance businesses of the Australian operations. 

(v) New Zealand 

New  Zealand  includes  the  Banking,  Funds  Management  and 
Insurance businesses operating in New Zealand (excluding the 
international business of Institutional Banking and Markets).  

(vi) Bankwest 

Bankwest  is  a  full  service  bank  active  in  all  domestic  market 
segments,  with lending  diversified between the  business,  rural, 
housing and personal markets, including a full range of deposit 
products.  

(vii) Other Divisions 

The  following  parts  of  the  business  are  included  in  Other 
Divisions: 

 

 

International  Financial  Services  Asia  incorporates  the 
Asian  retail  and  SME  banking  operations  (Indonesia, 
China,  Vietnam  and  India),  investments  in  Chinese  and 
Vietnamese  retail  banks,  the  joint  venture  Chinese  life 
insurance  business  and  the  life  insurance  operations  in 
Indonesia.  It  does  not  include  the  Business  and  Private 
Banking,  Institutional  Banking  and  Markets  and  Colonial 
First State Global Asset Management business in Asia; 
Corporate Centre includes the results of unallocated Group 
support  functions  such  as  Investor  Relations,  Group 
Strategy, Group Tax, Secretariat and Treasury; and 

  Group  wide  eliminations/unallocated  includes  intra-group 
elimination entries arising on consolidation, centrally raised 
provisions and other unallocated revenue and expenses. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

169 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 31 Financial Reporting by Segments (continued) 

 (1) Investment experience is presented on pre-tax basis. 
(2) Operating expenses include volume related expenses. 

(3) Business segments are measured on a net profit after income tax (“cash basis”) which is defined by management as net profit after tax and non-controlling interests before Bankwest significant items, the gain/loss on disposal of controlled entities/investments, treasury 

shares valuation adjustment, Count Financial acquisition costs and unrealised gains and losses related to hedging and IFRS volatility. Management use “cash basis” to assess performance and it provides the basis for the determination of the Bank’s dividends.  

170 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2011 

Retail Business and Institutional Banking Private Banking and Wealth New Services Banking Markets Management Zealand Bankwest OtherTotal $M$M$M$M$M$M$M$MNet interest income6,3422,2311,409-9441,45777413,157Other banking income1,410866937-2142072933,927Total banking income7,7523,0972,346-1,1581,6641,06717,084Funds management income---1,88844-251,957Insurance income---691227-42960Total operating income7,7523,0972,3462,5791,4291,6641,13420,001Investment experience (1)---108(11)-52149Total income7,7523,0972,3462,6871,4181,6641,18620,150Operating expenses (2)(2,957)(1,344)(851)(1,909)(727)(852)(556)(9,196)Loan impairment expense(623)(227)(153)-(37)(61)12(1,089)Net profit before income tax4,1721,5261,3427786547516429,865Corporate tax expense(1,238)(459)(282)(209)(164)(227)(157)(2,736)Non-controlling interests------(16)(16)Net profit after tax ("cash basis") (3)2,9341,0671,0605694905244697,113Hedging and IFRS volatility----28(4)100124Other non-cash items---(58)-(89)-(147)Net profit after tax ("statutory basis")2,9341,0671,0605115184315697,090Additional informationIntangible asset amortisation(36)(45)(9)(8)(24)(84)(70)(276)Depreciation(8)(16)(52)(4)(26)(31)(215)(352)Balance SheetTotal assets284,75482,157126,19620,64351,45682,59570,428718,229Acquisition of property plant and equipment, intangibles and other non-current assets682542874893198894Investment in associates71286822--9711,898Total liabilities185,402115,00174,66221,08147,22676,570156,715676,6572012 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 31 Financial Reporting by Segments (continued) 

Notes to the Financial Statements 

 (1) Results have been restated for the impact of business resegmentation. 
(2) Comparatives have been restated for the impact of the reclassification of bank bill facility fee income from Other banking income to Net interest income to conform with presentation in the current period. 

(3) Comparatives have been restated for the reallocation of IFRS net swap costs from Other banking income into Net interest income to conform with presentation in the current period. 

(4) Investment experience is presented on a pre-tax basis. 

(5) Operating expenses include volume related expenses. 

(6) Business segments are measured on a net profit after income tax (“cash basis”) which is defined by management as net profit after tax and non-controlling interests before Bankwest significant items, the gain/loss on disposal of controlled entities/investments, treasury shares 

valuation adjustment, Count Financial acquisition costs and unrealised gains and losses related to hedging and IFRS volatility. Management use “cash basis” to assess performance and it provides the basis for the determination of the Bank’s dividends. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2011 

171 

Retail Business and Institutional Banking Private Banking and Wealth New Services (1)Banking (1) (2)Markets (2)Management Zealand BankwestOther (3) Total $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Net interest income6,2092,1341,331-8401,42071112,645Other banking income1,3129051,136-2862201373,996Total banking income7,5213,0392,467-1,1261,64084816,641Funds management income---1,97540-262,041Insurance income---625211-20856Total operating income7,5213,0392,4672,6001,3771,64089419,538Investment experience (4)---831-37121Total net operating income before impairment and operating expense7,5213,0392,4672,6831,3781,64093119,659Operating expenses (5)(2,903)(1,335)(828)(1,801)(704)(869)(451)(8,891)Loan impairment expense(558)(261)(324)-(54)(109)26(1,280)Net profit before income tax4,0601,4431,3158826206625069,488Corporate tax expense(1,206)(413)(311)(240)(150)(199)(118)(2,637)Non-controlling interests------(16)(16)Net profit after tax ("cash basis") (6)2,8541,0301,0046424704633726,835Hedging and IFRS volatility----(16)(33)(216)(265)Other non-cash items---(34)-(137)(5)(176)Net profit after tax ("statutory basis")2,8541,0301,0046084542931516,394Additional informationIntangible asset amortisation(29)(58)(11)(3)(26)(88)(58)(273)Depreciation(10)(23)(43)(4)(24)(36)(200)(340)Balance SheetTotal assets274,77382,928112,02820,67250,49176,82850,179667,899Acquisition of property plant and equipment, intangibles and other non-current assets71513844645236491Investment in associates713312765--8311,712Total liabilities168,418113,28863,63119,92146,49371,555147,306630,6122011 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 31 Financial Reporting by Segments (continued) 

(1) Other locations include: United Kingdom, United States, Japan, Singapore, Malta, Hong Kong, Indonesia, China and Vietnam. 

(2) Comparatives have been restated for the IFRS allocation of net swap costs from Other banking income into Net interest income. 

(3) Non-current assets include Property, plant and equipment, Investments in associates and joint ventures and Intangibles. 

The geographical segment represents the location in which the transaction was recognised. 

Note 32 Life Insurance Business 

The  following  information  is  provided  to  disclose  the  statutory  life  insurance  business  transactions  contained  in  the  Group  Financial 
Statements and the underlying methods and assumptions used in their calculations. 

All financial assets within the life statutory funds have been determined to support either life insurance or life investment contracts. Also 
refer to Note 1(ff). The insurance segment result is prepared on a business segment basis. 

172 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012  

Group Geographical InformationYear Ended 30 June 201220112010Financial Performance & Position$M % $M % $M % IncomeAustralia41,80988. 640,98688. 436,16986. 3New Zealand3,7087. 93,8198. 24,17510. 0Other locations (1)1,6763. 51,5963. 41,5503. 7Total income (2)47,193100. 046,401100. 041,894100. 0Non-Current Assets (3)Australia13,59492. 612,70692. 912,65490. 5New Zealand9176. 28526. 21,0097. 2Other locations (1)1711. 21230. 93152. 3Total non-current assets14,682100. 013,681100. 013,978100. 0Life Insurance Life Investment Contracts Contracts Group 201220112012201120122011Summarised income statement$M $M $M $M $M $M Premium income and related revenue1,8901,6692412632,1311,932Outward reinsurance premiums expense(249)(221)--(249)(221)Claims expense(1,103)(1,086)(35)(37)(1,138)(1,123)Reinsurance recoveries228222--228222Investment revenue (excluding investments in subsidiaries):Equity securities6126(92)494(86)620Debt securities368202494383862585Property22533213354186Other11345(68)6945114(Increase)/decrease in contract liabilities(202)3(314)(980)(516)(977)Operating income1,0731,0132583251,3311,338Acquisition expenses(254)(246)(30)(10)(284)(256)Maintenance expenses(329)(295)(78)(82)(407)(377)Management expenses(14)(19)(25)(22)(39)(41)Net profit before income tax476453125211601664Income tax expense attributable to operating profit(214)(158)(29)(114)(243)(272)Net profit after income tax2622959697358392 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 32 Life Insurance Business (continued) 

The disclosure of the components of Net profit after income tax, are required to be separated between policyholders‟ and shareholders‟ 
interests. As policyholder profits are an expense of the Group and not attributable to shareholders, no such disclosure is required. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

173 

Life Insurance Life Investment Contracts Contracts Group 201220112012201120122011Sources of life insurance net profit$M $M $M $M $M $M The net profit after income tax is represented by:Emergence of planned profit margins2322279573327300Difference between actual and planned experience(57)(18)(1)21(58)3Effects of changes to underlying assumptions(20)2--(20)2Reversal of previously recognised losses or loss recognition on groups of related products2(1)--2(1)Investment earnings on assets in excess of policyholder liabilities108842311087Other movements(3)1--(3)1Net profit after income tax2622959697358392Life insurance premiums received and receivable1,9021,9336786972,5802,630Life insurance claims paid and payable1,1681,4691,5762,1282,7443,597Life InsuranceLife InvestmentContractsContractsGroupReconciliation of movements in201220112012201120122011policy liabilities$M$M$M$M$M$MContract policy liabilitiesGross policy liabilities opening balance3,1373,18110,51511,41113,65214,592Movement in policy liabilities reflected in the Income Statement211(23)314980525957Contract contributions recognised in policy liabilities9262439436448698Contract withdrawals recognised in policy liabilities(65)(242)(1,541)(2,231)(1,606)(2,473)Non-cash movements(26)(18)--(26)(18)FX translation adjustment-(23)1(81)1(104)Gross policy liabilities closing balance3,2663,1379,72810,51512,99413,652Liabilities ceded under reinsuranceOpening balance(164)(189)--(164)(189)Acquisition of controlled entities-3---3Increase in reinsurance assets(8)22--(8)22Closing balance(172)(164)--(172)(164)Net policy liabilitiesExpected to be realised within 12 months5645111,5831,7682,1472,279Expected to be realised in more than 12 months2,5302,4628,1458,74710,67511,209Total net insurance policy liabilities3,0942,9739,72810,51512,82213,488 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 33 Remuneration of Auditors 

During the financial year, the following fees were paid or payable for services provided by the auditor of the Group and the Bank, and its 
network firms: 

(1)  An  additional  amount  of  $9,231,613  (2011:  $9,738,612)  was  paid  to  PricewaterhouseCoopers  by  way  of  fees  for  entities  not  consolidated  into  the  Financial 

Statements. Of this amount, $8,411,965 (2011: $8,025,284) relates to audit and audit-related services. 

The Audit Committee has considered the non-audit services provided by PricewaterhouseCoopers and is satisfied that the services and 
the level of fees are compatible with maintaining auditors‟ independence. All such services were approved by the Audit Committee in 
accordance with pre-approved policies and procedures. 

Audit related services principally includes assurance and attestation reviews of the Group‟s foreign disclosures for overseas investors, 
services in relation to regulatory requirements, acquisition accounting advice as well as reviews of internal control systems and financial 
or regulatory information. 

Taxation services included assistance and training in relation to tax legislation and developments. 

Other services include training, reviews of compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks and project assurance particularly relating 
to information technology projects. 

Note 34 Lease Commitments 

(1) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

Lease Arrangements 

Operating leases are entered into to meet the business needs of entities in the Group. Leases are primarily over commercial and retail 
premises and plant and equipment. 

Lease rentals are determined in accordance with market conditions when leases are entered into or on rental review dates. 

The total expected future sublease payments to be received are $77 million as at 30 June 2012 (2011: $38 million). 

174 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

GroupBank2012201120122011$'000$'000$'000$'000a) Audit and audit related servicesAudit servicesPricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm14,03014,4449,1069,182Network firms of PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm3,8153,405476526Total remuneration for audit services17,84517,8499,5829,708Audit related servicesPricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm4,6204,3463,2703,968Network firms of PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm38924795100Total remuneration for audit related services5,0094,5933,3654,068Total remuneration for audit and audit related services22,85422,44212,94713,776b) Non-audit servicesTaxation servicesPricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm1,5301,4201,4321,270Network firms of PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm1,3471,631360588Total remuneration for tax related services2,8773,0511,7921,858Other ServicesPricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm2,5993,6022,5993,517Network firms of PricewaterhouseCoopers Australian firm416-2Total remuneration for other services2,6403,6082,5993,519Total remuneration for non-audit services 5,5176,6594,3915,377Total remuneration for audit and non-audit services (1)28,37129,10117,33819,153Group Bank 2012201120122011$M $M $M $M Lease Commitments - Property, Plant and EquipmentDue within one year (1)499498404405Due after one year but not later than five years (1)1,2641,3411,0531,116Due after five years (1)8591,023639791Total lease commitments - property, plant and equipment2,6222,8622,0962,312 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 35 Contingent Liabilities, Contingent Assets and Commitments 

Details of contingent liabilities and off balance sheet business are presented below. The face (contract) value represents the maximum 
potential amount that could be lost if the counterparty fails to meet its financial obligations. 

 (1) Guarantees are unconditional undertakings given to support the obligations of a customer to third parties. 
(2) Standby letters of credit are undertakings to pay, against presentation of documents, an obligation in the event of a default by a customer. 

(3) Bills of exchange endorsed by the Group and Bank which represent liabilities in the event of default by the acceptor and the drawer of the bill. 

(4)  Documentary  letters of  credit  are  undertakings  by  the  Group  and  Bank  to  pay  or accept  drafts  drawn  by  an  overseas  supplier  of  goods  against  presentation  of 

documents in the event of payment default by a customer. 

(5) Performance related contingents are undertakings that oblige the Group and Bank  to pay third parties should a customer fail to fulfil a contractual non-monetary 

obligation. 

(6) Commitments to provide credit include all obligations on the part of the Group and Bank to provide credit facilities. As facilities may expire without being drawn upon, 

the notional amounts do not necessarily reflect future cash requirements. 

(7) Other commitments include underwriting facilities and commitments with certain drawdowns. 

Contingent Credit Liabilities 

The Group and Bank is party to a range of financial instruments 
that  give  rise  to  contingent  and/or  future  liabilities.  These 
transactions are a consequence of the Group‟s normal course 
of business to meet the financing needs of its customers and in 
managing  its  own  risk.  These  financial  instruments  include 
guarantees,  letters  of  credit,  bill  endorsements  and  other 
commitments  to  provide  credit.  The  face  (contract)  value 
represents the maximum potential amount that could be lost if 
the counterparty fails to meet its financial obligations. 

As  the  Group  and  Bank  will  only  be  required  to  meet  these 
obligations  in  the  event  of  default,  the  cash  requirements  of 
these  instruments  are  expected  to  be  considerably  less  than 
their face values. 

These  transactions  combine  varying  levels  of  credit,  interest 
rate,  foreign  exchange  and  liquidity  risk.  In  accordance  with 
Bank  policy,  exposures  to  any  of  these  transactions  (net  of 
collateral) are not carried at a level that would have a material 
adverse  effect  on  the  financial  condition  of  the  Bank  and  its 
controlled entities. 

Commitments to provide credit include both fixed and variable 
facilities. Fixed rate or fixed spread commitments extended to 
customers that allow net settlement of the change in the value 
of the commitment are written options and are recorded at fair  

value.  Other  commitments  include  the  Group‟s  and  Bank‟s 
obligations  under  sale  and  repurchase  agreements,  outright 
forward  purchases,  forward  deposits  and  underwriting  facilities. 
Other  commitments  also  include  obligations  not  otherwise 
disclosed above to extend credit, which are irrevocable because 
they cannot be withdrawn at the discretion of the Group or Bank 
without  the  risk  of  incurring  significant  penalty  or  expense.  In 
addition, commitments to purchase or sell loans are included in 
other commitments. 

These  transactions  are  categorised  and  credit  equivalents 
calculated  under  APRA  guidelines 
risk-based 
measurement  of  capital  adequacy.  The  credit  equivalent 
amounts  are  a  measure  of  potential  loss  to  the  Group  in  the 
event of non-performance by the counterparty. 

the 

for 

Under the Basel II advanced internal ratings based approach for 
credit risk, the credit equivalent amount is the face value of the 
transaction,  on  the  basis  that  at  default  the  exposure  is  the 
amount fully advanced. Only when approved by APRA may an 
exposure less than that fully-advanced amount be used as the 
credit equivalent exposure amount. 

As the potential loss depends on counterparty performance, the 
Group  utilises  the same credit  policies  in making commitments 
and  conditional  obligations  as  it  does  for  on-balance  sheet 
obligations 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

175 

Group Face Value Credit Equivalent 2012201120122011Credit risk related instruments$M $M $M $M Guarantees (1)5,3584,4625,3574,462Standby letters of credit (2)201236201237Bill endorsements (3)23282328Documentary letters of credit (4)1,7631,7231,7591,719Performance related contingents (5)1,6771,9961,6051,910Commitments to provide credit (6)127,833126,334113,503111,016Other commitments (7)2,0931,3551,4681,159Total credit risk related instruments138,948136,134123,916120,531Bank Face Value Credit Equivalent 2012201120122011Credit risk related instruments$M $M $M $M Guarantees (1)4,7183,7194,7183,719Standby letters of credit (2)271272Bill endorsements (3)23282328Documentary letters of credit (4) 1,7441,6991,7441,699Performance related contingents (5)1,5761,8931,5541,859Commitments to provide credit (6)109,648110,009105,045103,718Other commitments (7)934775924774Total credit risk related instruments118,645118,194114,010111,869 
 
 
  
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 35 Contingent Liabilities, Contingent Assets and Commitments (continued) 

instruments.  The  Group  and  Bank  takes  collateral  where  it  is 
considered  necessary  to  support  off  balance  sheet  financial 
instruments with credit risk. If an event has occurred that gives 
rise  to  a  present  obligation  and  it  is  probable  a  loss  will 
eventuate, then provisions are raised. 

Contingent Assets  

The  credit  commitments  shown  in  the  table  on  page  175  also 
constitute  contingent  assets.  These  commitments  would  be 
classified as loans and other assets in the balance sheet on the 
occurrence of the contingent event.  

from the class action referred to above. 

Exception Fee Class Action 

In May 2011, Maurice Blackburn announced that it intended to 
sue 12 Australian banks, including the Commonwealth Bank of 
Australia and Bankwest, with respect to exception fees. On 16 
December  2011  proceedings  were 
the 
Commonwealth  Bank  of  Australia  and  on  18  April  2012 
proceedings  were  issued  against  Bankwest.  The  financial 
impact cannot be reliably measured at this stage; however, it is 
not anticipated to have a material impact on the Group. 

issued  against 

Litigation 

Failure to Settle Risk 

The Group is not engaged in any litigation or claim which is likely 
to  have  a  materially  adverse  effect  on  the  business,  financial 
condition or operating results of the Group. Where some loss is 
probable and can be reliably estimated an appropriate provision 
has been made. Other than as outlined below, there has been 
no  change  in  contingent  liabilities  since  those  disclosed  in  the 
Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2011. 

Storm Financial 

The Australian Securities  and Investments  Commission  (ASIC) 
has commenced legal proceedings against the Bank in relation 
to Storm Financial, a Queensland-based financial planning firm 
that  collapsed  and  went  into  receivership  in  March  2009. 
However, no damages have been claimed at this stage and no 
estimate  can  be  made.  In  addition,  class  action  proceedings 
have  been  commenced  against  the  Group  in  relation  to  Storm 
Financial.  At  this  stage  only  the  damages  sought  on  behalf  of 
the  four  lead  applicants  have  been  quantified  on  a  number  of 
alternate  bases,  so  quantification  of  the  claims  of  all  group 
members is not possible. The proceedings are listed for hearing 
from September to December 2012.  

The Group is close to finalising its resolution scheme for clients 
of  Storm  Financial  who  borrowed  money  from  the  Group.  The 
Group believes that appropriate provisions are held to cover the 
outcomes and costs of the scheme and any exposures arising  

The Group is subject to a credit risk exposure in the event that 
another  financial  institution  fails  to  settle  for  its  payments 
clearing  activities,  in  accordance  with  the  regulations  and 
procedures of the following clearing systems of the Australian 
Payments  Clearing Association  Limited:  The Australian Paper 
Clearing  System,  The  Bulk  Electronic  Clearing  System,  The 
Consumer  Electronic  Clearing  System  and  the  High  Value 
Clearing  System  (only  if  operating  in  “fallback  mode”).  This 
credit  risk  exposure  is  unquantifiable  in  advance,  but  is  well 
understood, and is extinguished upon settlement at 9am each 
business day. 

Capital Commitments 

The Group is committed for capital expenditure, under contract 
of $54 million as at 30 June 2012 (2011: $13 million). The Bank 
is  committed  for  $14  million  (2011:  $13  million).  These 
commitments  are  expected  to  be  extinguished  within  12 
months. 

Services Agreements 

The  maximum  contingent  liability  for  termination  benefits  in 
respect of service agreements with the Chief Executive Officer 
and other Group Key Management Personnel at 30 June 2012 
was $4.7 million (2011: $4.2 million). 

176 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 35 Contingent Liabilities, Contingent Assets and Commitments (continued) 

Collateral accepted as security for assets 

The Group takes collateral where it is considered necessary to support both on and off balance sheet financial instruments. The Group 
evaluates each customer‟s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral taken, if deemed necessary, is based on 
management‟s credit evaluation of the counterparty. The Group has the right to sell, re-pledge, or otherwise use some of the collateral 
received. No collateral has been re-pledged or sold. At Balance Sheet date, the carrying value of collateral accepted is as follows: 

Assets pledged 

As part of standard terms of transactions with other banks, the Group has provided collateral to secure liabilities. At Balance Sheet date, 
the carrying value of assets pledged as collateral to secure liabilities is as follows: 

  (1) These balances include assets sold under repurchase agreements. The liabilities related to these repurchase agreements are disclosed in Note 19. 

Assets Sold Under Repurchase Agreement 

Securities  sold  under  agreement  to  repurchase  are  retained  on  the  balance  sheet  when  substantially  all  the  risks  and  rewards  of 
ownership remain with the Group, and the counterparty liability is included separately on the balance sheet when cash consideration is 
received. At Balance Sheet date, the carrying amounts of such securities and their related liabilities are as follows: 

Note 36 Fiduciary Activities 

The  Group  conducts  investment  management  and  other  fiduciary  activities  as  responsible  entity,  trustee,  custodian  or  manager  for 
investment funds and trusts, including superannuation and approved deposit funds, wholesale and retail trusts. These funds and trusts 
are  not  consolidated  as  the  Group  does  not  have  direct  or  indirect  control.  Where  the  Group  incurs  liabilities  in  respect  of  these 
activities, and the primary obligation is incurred in an agency capacity, for the fund or trust rather than on its own account, a right of 
indemnity exists against the assets of the applicable fund or trust. As these assets are sufficient to cover the liabilities and it is therefore 
not probable that the Group will be required to settle the liabilities, the liabilities are not included in the financial statements. 

The aggregate value of funds as at 30 June, managed for each fiduciary activity but not reported in the Group‟s Balance Sheet are as 
follows: 

  (1) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

177 

Group Bank 2012201120122011$M $M $M $M Cash3,2881,4913,2081,463Assets at fair value through Income Statement3,9004,1143,9004,115Available-for-sale investments3,1182,4003,1061,781Collateral held10,3068,00510,2147,359GroupBank2012201120122011$M$M$M$MCash3,5074,0243,4143,762Assets at fair value through Income Statement (1)6,2225,1196,2374,857Assets pledged9,7299,1439,6518,619Of which can be repledged or resold by counterparty5,2454,0635,2583,801Group Bank Carrying Amount Related Liability Carrying Amount Related Liability 20122011201220112012201120122011$M $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Assets at fair value through Income Statement5,2454,0635,2454,0635,2583,8015,2583,801Total5,2454,0635,2454,0635,2583,8015,2583,801Group 20122011$M $M Funds under administration (1)177,825175,769Funds under management (1)137,535139,219 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 37 Financial Risk Management 

Risk Management 

The  Group  is  a  major  financial  services  provider  engaged  in 
retail and commercial banking, credit cards, investment banking, 
wealth  management  and  investment  management  services. 
Financial instruments are fundamental to the Group‟s business 
and  managing  financial  risks,  especially  credit  risk,  is  a 
fundamental part of its business activity. 

Governance 

Risk  governance  originates  at  Board  level,  and  cascades 
through  to  the  CEO  and  businesses  via  Group  policies, 
delegated  authorities  and  regular  reviews  of  outcomes.  This 
ensures  Board  level  oversight  and  is  based  on  a  clear 
segregation  of  duties  between  those  who  originate  and  those 
who  approve  risk  exposures.  Independent  review  of  the  risk 
management  framework  is  carried  out  by  Group  Audit  and 
Assurance. 

The  Risk  Committee  of  the  Board  oversees  credit,  market 
(including traded, interest rate risk in the banking book (IRRBB), 
lease  residual  values,  non-traded  equity  and  structural  foreign 
exchange  risks),  liquidity  and  funding,  operational,  regulatory 
and  compliance,  insurance  and  reputational  risks  assumed  by 
the  Group  in  the  course  of  carrying  on  its  business.  Strategic 
risks are governed by the full Board with input from the various 
Board sub-committees. Tax and accounting  risks are governed 
by the Audit Committee. 

The  main  financial  risks  affecting  the  Group  are  discussed  in 
Notes 38 (Credit Risk), 39 (Market Risk), and 40 (Liquidity and 
Funding Risk). 

Risk Management Framework 

The  Group  has  in  place  an  integrated  risk  management 
framework to identify, assess, manage and report risks and risk-
adjusted returns on a consistent and reliable basis. 

This framework requires each business to manage the outcome 
of  its  risk-taking  activities  and  benefit  from  the  resulting  risk 
adjusted returns. 

Accountability  for  risk  management  is  structured  by  a  “Three 
Lines of Defence” model as follows: 

 

 

 

(“the  costs  of 

Line 1 – Business Management – Risk is best managed at 
the  place  it  occurs,  therefore  business  managers  are 
responsible for managing the risks for their business. This 
includes  implementing  approaches  to  proactively  manage 
their  risk  within  risk  appetite  levels,  and  using  risk 
management  outcomes 
risk”)  and 
considerations as part of their day-to-day business making 
processes. 
Line  2  –  Risk  Management  –  Group,  Business  Unit  and 
Divisional  Risk  Management  units  provide 
risk 
management  expertise  and  oversight 
for  Business 
Management  risk-taking  activities.  Risk  Management 
develop  specialist  policies  and  procedures 
for  risk 
management  and  ensure  they  are  embedded  and  in  use 
as  part  of  the  day-to-day  management  of  the  business. 
Risk  Management  also  establishes  and maintains  aligned 
and integrated risk management frameworks and monitors 
compliance with the frameworks, policies and procedures. 

Line  3  –  Group  Audit  and  Assurance  –  Group  Audit  and 
Assurance  provide 
to  key 
stakeholders regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of 
the  Group‟s  system  of  internal  controls,  risk management 
procedures and governance processes. It is responsible for 

independent  assurance 

178 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

reviewing risk management frameworks and Business Unit 
practices for risk management and internal controls. 

Note 38 Credit Risk 

Credit risk is the potential for loss arising from failure of a debtor 
or  counterparty  to  meet  their  contractual  obligations.  It  arises 
primarily  from  lending  activities,  the  provision  of  guarantees 
(including letters of credit), commitments to lend, investments in 
bonds  and  notes,  financial  markets  transactions,  providers  of 
credit  enhancements  (e.g.  credit  default  swaps, 
lenders 
mortgage  insurance),  securitisations  and  other  associated 
activities.  In  the  insurance  business,  credit  risk  arises  from 
investment  in  bonds  and  notes,  loans,  and  from  reliance  on 
reinsurance. 

Credit Risk Management Principles and Portfolio 
Standards 

The Risk Committee of the Board operates under a Charter by 
which  it  oversees  the  Group‟s  credit  risk  management  policies 
and portfolio standards. These are designed to achieve portfolio 
outcomes  that  are  consistent  with  the  Group‟s  risk/return 
expectations. The Committee meets at least quarterly, and more 
often if required. 

The  Group  has  clearly  defined  credit  policies  for  the  approval 
and management of credit risk. Formal credit standards apply to 
all  credit  risks,  with  specific  portfolio  standards  applying  to  all 
major  lending  areas.  These  incorporate  income/repayment 
capacity, acceptable terms and security and loan documentation 
tests. 

The Group uses a Risk Committee approved diversified portfolio 
approach  for  the  management  of  credit  risk  concentrations 
comprised of the following: 

 

 

 

A  large  credit  exposures  policy,  which  sets  limits  for 
aggregate  exposures  to  individual,  commercial,  bank  and 
government client groups; 
An industry concentrations policy that defines a system of 
limits for concentrations by industry; and 
A  system  of  country  limits  for  managing  geographic 
exposures. 

The  Group  assesses  the  integrity  and  ability  of  debtors  or 
counterparties  to  meet  their  contracted  financial  obligations  for 
repayment.  Collateral  security,  in  the  form  of  real  estate  or  a 
charge  over  income  or  assets,  is  generally  taken  for  business 
credit  except  for  major  government,  bank  and  corporate 
counterparties  that  are  externally  risk-rated  and  of  strong 
financial standing. Longer term consumer finance (e.g. housing 
loans) is generally secured against real estate while short term 
revolving  consumer  credit  is  generally  not  secured  by  formal 
collateral. 

While  the  Group  applies  policies, standards  and  procedures  in 
governing the credit process, the management of credit risk also 
relies on the application of judgement and the exercise of good 
faith  and  due  care  by  relevant  people  within  their  delegated 
authority. 

A  centralised  exposure  management  system  is  used  to  record 
all  significant  credit  risks  borne  by  the  Group.  The  credit  risk 
portfolio has two major segments: 

(i) Retail Managed 

This  segment  has  sub-segments  covering  housing  loan,  credit 
card  and  personal  loan  facilities,  some  leasing  products  and 
most secured commercial lending up to $1 million.  

 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Auto  decisioning  is  used  to  approve  credit  applications  for 
eligible  business  and  consumer  customers.  Auto-decisioning 
uses  a  scorecard  approach  based  on  the  Group‟s  historical 
experience  on  similar  applications,  information  from  a  credit 
reference bureau and/or from the Group‟s existing knowledge of 
a customer‟s behaviour. 

Loan  applications  that  do  not  meet  scorecard  Auto-decisioning 
requirements may be referred for manual decisioning. 

After  loan  origination,  these  portfolios  are  managed  using 
behavioural  scoring  systems  and  on  a  delinquency  band 
approach  (e.g.  actions  taken  when  loan  payments  are  greater 
than  30  days  past  due  differ  from  actions  when  payments  are 
greater than 60 days past due) and are reviewed by the relevant 
business credit support unit. Commercial lending up to $1 million 
is  reviewed  as  part  of  the  Group‟s  quality  assurance  process 
and  oversight  is  provided  by  the  independent  Credit  Portfolio 
Assurance  unit.  Facilities  in  the  Retail  segment  become 
classified  for  remedial  management  by  centralised  units  based 
on delinquency band. 

Facilities  are  classified  as  restructured  where  their  original 
contractual  arrangements  have  been  modified  to  provide  for 
concessions of interest or principal, for reasons that relate to the 
customer‟s  financial  difficulties,  rendering  the  facility  non-
commercial to the Group. Facilities that have been restructured 
are considered impaired. 

Default  is  usually  consistent  with  one  or  more  of  the  following 
criteria: 

 

 

The customer is 90 days or more overdue on a scheduled 
credit obligation repayment; or  
The customer is unlikely to repay their credit obligation to 
the Bank in full, without recourse by the Group to actions 
such as realising available security. 

The  Credit  Portfolio  Assurance  unit,  part  of  Group  Audit  and 
Assurance,  reviews  credit  portfolios  and  receives  reports 
covering  business  unit  compliance  with  policies,  portfolio 
standards,  application  of  credit  risk  ratings  and  other  key 
practices  and  policies  on  a  regular  basis.  The  Credit  Portfolio 
Assurance unit reports its findings to the Board Audit and Risk 
Committees as appropriate. 

(ii) Credit Risk-Rated 

Credit Risk Measurement  

This segment comprises commercial exposures, including bank 
and  government  exposures.  Each  exposure  with  commercial 
content  exceeding  $50,000  is  assigned  an  internal  Credit  Risk 
Rating (CRR). The CRR is normally assessed by reference to a 
matrix  where  the  probability  of  default  (PD)  and  the  amount  of 
loss  given  default  (LGD)  combine  to  determine  a  CRR  grade 
commensurate with expected loss (EL).  

For  credit  risk  exposures  greater  than  $1  million  or  decisioned 
outside  of the scorecard  approach,  either  a PD  Rating  Tool  or 
Expert Judgement is used.  

Expert  Judgement  is  used  where  the  complexity  of  the 
transaction  and/or  the  debtor  is  such  that  it  is  inappropriate  to 
rely  completely  on  a  statistical  model.  Ratings  by  Moody‟s  or 
Standard  and  Poor‟s  may  be  used  as  inputs  into  the  expert 
judgement assessment. 

The CRR is designed to: 
 

Aid  in  assessing  changes  to  the  client  quality  of  the 
Group's credit portfolio; 
Influence decisions on approval, management and pricing 
of individual credit facilities; and  
Provide the basis for reporting details of the Group's credit 
portfolio to the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority. 

 

 

Credit  risk-rated  exposures  are  generally  reviewed  on  an 
individual  basis,  at  least  annually,  although  small  transactions 
may be managed on a behavioural basis after their initial rating 
at origination. 

Credit risk-rated exposures fall within the following categories: 

 

 

“Pass”  –  Internal  CRR  of  1-6,  or  if  not  individually  credit 
risk-rated,  less  than  30  days  past  due.  These  credit 
facilities qualify for approval of new or increased exposure 
on normal commercial terms; and 
“Troublesome or Impaired Assets (TIAs)” - Internal CRR of 
7-9 or, if not individually credit risk-rated, 30 days or more 
past due. These credit facilities are not eligible for new or 
increased  exposure  unless  it  will  protect  or  improve  the 
Group‟s  position  by  maximising  recovery  prospects  or  to 
facilitate  rehabilitation. Where  a client is  in  default but  the 
facility is well secured then the facility may be classed as 
troublesome but not impaired. Where a client‟s facility is not 
well  secured  and  a  loss  is  expected,  then  a  facility  is 
impaired. 

The measurement of credit risk uses analytical tools to calculate 
both  (i)  expected  and  (ii)  unexpected  loss  probabilities  for  the 
credit  portfolio.  The  use  of  analytical  tools  is  governed  by  a 
Credit  Rating  Governance  Committee 
reviews  and 
endorses  the  use  of  the  tools  prior  to  their  implementation  to 
ensure they are sufficiently predictive of risk. 

that 

(i) Expected Loss 

Expected loss is the product of: 

 
 
 

Probability of default (PD); 
Exposure at default (EAD); and 
Loss given default (LGD). 

For credit risk-rated facilities, EL is allocated within CRR bands. 
All  credit  risk-rated  exposures  are  required  to  be  reviewed  at 
least annually. 

The  PD,  expressed  as  a  percentage,  is  the  estimate  of  the 
probability that a client will default within the next twelve months. 
It  reflects a  client's  ability to  generate sufficient cash flows  into 
the future to meet the terms of all its credit obligations with the 
Group. When assessing a client's PD, all relevant and material 
information is considered.  The same PD  is  applied to  all credit 
facilities provided to a client.  

EAD,  expressed  as  a  percentage  of  the  facility  limit,  is  the 
proportion  of  a  facility  that  may  be  outstanding  in  the  event  of 
default.  The  EAD  treatment  is  as  follows  for  different  facility 
types: 

 

 

 

Drawn committed facilities (such as fully drawn loans and 
advances), EAD will generally be the higher of the limit or 
outstanding balance; 
Committed  facilities  with  uncertain  future  drawdown  (e.g. 
Credit cards and overdrafts), EAD is based on the Group‟s 
to 
historical  experience  of  additional  drawings  prior 
customer default; and 
Uncommitted 
outstanding balance only. 

facilities,  EAD  will  generally  be 

the 

LGD, expressed as a percentage, is the estimated proportion of 
a facility likely to be lost in the event of default. LGD is impacted 
by: 

 
 
 

Type and level of any collateral held; 
Liquidity and volatility of collateral; 
Carrying  costs  (effectively  the  costs  of  providing  a  facility 
that is not generating an interest return); and 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

179 

 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

 

Realisation costs (costs of internal workout specialists). 

Various  factors  are  considered  when  calculating  PD,  EAD  and 
LGD.  Considerations  include  the  potential  for  default  by  a 
borrower  due  to  economic,  management,  industry  and  other 
risks and the mitigating benefits of any collateral. 

(ii) Unexpected Loss 

In  addition  to  expected  loss,  a  more  stressed  loss  amount  is 
calculated.  This  unexpected  loss  estimate  directly  affects  the 
calculation  of 
internal  economic  capital 
requirements (refer to Capital Management section and Note 30, 
for information relating to regulatory and economic capital). 

regulatory  and 

In  addition  to  the  credit  risk  management  processes  used  to 
manage  exposures  to  credit  risk  in  the  credit  portfolio,  the 
internal  ratings  process  also  assists management in  assessing 
impairment  and  provisioning  of  financial  assets  (refer  to  Note 
14). 

Credit Risk Mitigation, Collateral and Other Credit 
Enhancements 

Where it is considered appropriate, the Group has policies and 
procedures  in  place  setting  out  the  circumstances  where 
acceptable  and  appropriate collateral  is  to  be taken to mitigate 
credit risk, including valuation parameters, review frequency and 
independence of valuation. 

The general nature and amount of collateral that may be taken 
by financial asset classes are summarised below. 

Cash and Liquid Assets 

With the exception of securities purchased under agreements to 
resell,  which  are  100%  collateralised  by  highly  liquid  debt 
securities, collateral is usually not sought on these balances as 
exposures  are  generally  considered  low  risk.  The  collateral 
related  to  agreements  to  resell  has  been  legally  transferred  to 
the  Group  subject  to  an  agreement  to  return  them  for  a  fixed 
price.  

The Group‟s cash and liquid asset balance as of 30 June 2012 
was  $19,666  million  (2011:  $13,241  million).  Included  in  this 
balance is $9,599 million (2011: $3,658 million) that is deposited 
with central banks and considered to carry less credit risk. 

Receivables due from other financial institutions 

Collateral is usually not sought on these balances as exposures 
are  generally  considered  to  be  of  low  risk.  The  exposures  are 
mainly to relatively low risk banks (Rated A+, AA- or better). As 
of 30 June 2012, the Group had $10,886 million (2011: $10,393 
million) receivable from other financial institutions.   

Trading assets at fair value 

These  assets  are  carried  at  fair  value  which  accounts  for  the 
credit  risk.  Collateral  is  not  generally  sought from  the  issuer  or 
counterparty.  Credit  derivatives  have  been  used  to  a  limited 
extent  to  mitigate  the  exposure  to  credit  risk.  As  of  30  June 
2012,  the  Group  held  $13,816  million  (2011:  $20,469  million) 
trading assets at fair value. 

Insurance assets 

These  assets  are  carried  at  fair  value  which  accounts  for  the 
credit  risk.  Collateral  is  not  generally  sought  or  provided  on 
these types of assets other than a fixed charge over properties 
backing Australian mortgage investments. 

Life  investment  contracts  and  unit  holder  investment  backed 
policy  liabilities  of  $14,525  million  (2011:  $14,998  million),  and 

180 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

therefore  the  credit  risk  on  these  assets  are  borne  by  policy 
holders. 

Other financial assets designated at fair value 

These  assets  are  carried  at  fair  value  which  accounts  for  the 
credit risk. Credit derivatives have not been used to mitigate the 
exposure to credit risk. 

Derivative financial assets 

The  Group‟s  use  of  derivative  contracts  is  outlined  in  the 
derivative  financial  instruments  note  (Note  11).  The  Group  is 
exposed to credit risk on derivative contracts, which arises as a 
result  of  counterparty  credit  risk.  The  Group‟s  exposure  to 
counterparty  risk  is  affected  by  the  nature  of  the  trades,  the 
creditworthiness  of  the  counterparty,  netting,  and  collateral 
arrangements.  

to  be 

Credit risk from derivatives is mitigated where possible (typically 
for  financial  markets  counterparties,  but  less  frequently  for 
corporate  or  government  counterparties) 
through  netting 
agreements  whereby  derivative  assets  and  liabilities  with  the 
same  counterparty  can  be  offset.  Group  policy  requires  all 
netting  arrangements 
legally  documented.  The 
International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master 
Agreement  is  used  by  the  Group  as  an  agreement  for 
documenting over the counter (OTC) derivatives. It provides the 
contractual  framework  within  which  dealing  activities  across  a 
range  of  OTC  products  are  conducted  and  contractually  binds 
both  parties  to  apply  close-out  netting  across  all  outstanding 
transactions covered by an agreement if either party defaults or 
other predetermined events occur. 

Collateral  is  obtained  against  derivative  assets,  depending  on 
the  creditworthiness  of  the  counterparty  and/or  nature  of  the 
transaction. 

As  at  30  June  2012,  the  Group  held  positive  derivative  asset 
OTC  contracts  with  a  value  of  $38,937  million  (2011:  $30,317 
million)  and  collateral  received  of  $3,288  million  (2011:  $1,491 
million)  covering  some  of  these  contracts.  The  credit  risk  is 
the  Group  has  master  netting 
further 
agreements.  The  offsets  obtained  by  applying  master  netting 
agreements 
the  Group  by 
approximately  $18.6  billion  as  at  30  June  2012  (2011:  $10.2 
billion). 

reduced  where 

the  credit 

reduced 

risk  of 

Available for sale securities (AFS) 

As  of  30  June  2012,  the  Group  held  $60,827  million  (2011: 
$45,171  million)  of  AFS  securities.  Included  in  this  holding  are 
$1,317  million  (2011:  $2,828  million)  of  securities  issued  by 
Australian banks which are subject to an Australian Government 
guarantee. 

Due from subsidiaries 

Collateral is not generally taken on these intergroup balances. 

Credit commitments and contingent liabilities 

The  Group  applies  fundamentally  the  same  risk  management 
policies for off balance sheet risks as it does for its on-balance 
sheet  risks.  In  the  case  of credit  commitments, customers  and 
counterparties  will  be  subject  to  the  same  credit  management 
policies  as  for  loans  and  advances.  Collateral  may  be  sought 
depending on the strength of the counterparty and the nature of 
the transaction. 

As  at  30  June  2012,  the  Group  had  $138,948  million  (2011: 
$136,134 million) of off balance sheet exposures (commitments 
and  guarantees).  Of  these  $70,041  million  (2011:  $70,968 
million) are secured by underlying specific assets. 

 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

(ii) Personal Lending 

Loans and other receivables 

The principal collateral types for loans and receivable balances 
are: 

  Mortgages over residential and commercial real estate; 
 

Charges over business assets such as premises, inventory 
and accounts receivables; and 

  Guarantees received from third parties. 

Specifically, the collateral mitigating credit risk of the key lending 
portfolios is addressed in the notes and tables below. 

(i) Home Loans 

All  home  loans  are  secured  by  fixed  charges  over  borrowers‟ 
residential  properties,  other  properties  (including  commercial 
and broad acre), or cash (usually in the form of a charge over a 
deposit). Further, lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) is taken out 
for  most  loans  with  a  Loan  to  Value  Ratio  (LVR)  higher  than 
80%  at  origination  to  cover  100%  of  the  original  principal  plus 
interest.

Personal lending (e.g. credit cards) is predominantly unsecured. 

(iii) Asset Finance  

The  Group  leases  assets to corporate  and  retail clients. When 
the  title to  the  underlying  fixed  assets  is  held  by  the  Group as 
collateral,  the  balance  is  deemed  fully  secured.  In  other 
instances, a client‟s facilities maybe secured by collateral valued 
at  less  than  the  carrying  amount  of  credit  exposure.  These 
facilities are deemed partially secured or unsecured.   

(iv) Other commercial and industrial lending 

The  Group‟s  main  collateral  types  for  other  commercial  and 
industrial lending consists of secured rights over specified assets 
of the borrower in the form of: commercial property, land rights, 
cash (usually in the form of a charge over a deposit), guarantees 
by company directors supporting commercial lending, a charge 
over  a company‟s  assets  (including  debtors, stock  and  work  in 
progress), or a charge over stock or scrip. In other instances, a 
client‟s  facilities  may  be  secured  by  collateral  with  value  less 
than the carrying amount of the credit exposure. These facilities 
are deemed, secured, partially secured or unsecured. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

181 

Group2012Other Home Asset Commercial LoansPersonalFinancing and Industrial Total Maximum exposure ($M)350,63322,4288,682150,637532,380Collateral classification:Secured (%)98. 716. 299. 436. 677. 7Partially secured (%)1. 3-0. 613. 64. 7Unsecured (%)-83. 8-49. 817. 6Group2011Other Home Asset Commercial LoansPersonalFinancing and Industrial Total Maximum exposure ($M)335,84122,7039,584139,213507,341Collateral classification:Secured (%)98. 720. 399. 243. 080. 1Partially secured (%)1. 3-0. 812. 04. 3Unsecured (%)-79. 7-45. 015. 6Bank2012Other Home Asset Commercial LoansPersonalFinancing and Industrial Total Maximum exposure ($M)269,31920,0677,822114,322411,530Collateral classification:Secured (%)98. 919. 099. 539. 478. 5Partially secured (%)1. 1-0. 511. 03. 8Unsecured (%)-81. 0-49. 617. 7Bank2011Other Home Asset Commercial LoansPersonalFinancing and Industrial Total Maximum exposure ($M)260,05920,4137,839104,093392,404Collateral classification:Secured (%)99. 023. 899. 448. 181. 9Partially secured (%)1. 0-0. 68. 33. 0Unsecured (%)-76. 2-43. 615. 1 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Maximum Exposure to Credit Risk by Industry and Asset Class before Collateral Held or Other Credit Enhancements 

The below tables detail the concentration of credit exposure assets by significant geographical locations and counterparty types. Disclosures 
do not take into account collateral held and other credit enhancements. 

(1) In most cases the credit risk of insurance assets is borne by policyholders. However, on certain insurance contracts the Group retains exposure to credit risk. 

(2) Loans, bills discounted and other receivables is presented gross of provisions for impairment and unearned income on lease receivables in line with Note 13. 

(3) Other assets predominantly comprises assets which do not give rise to credit exposure, including intangible assets, property and plant and equipment, which are shown in 

“Other” for the purpose of reconciling to the Balance Sheet. 

182 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

GroupAt 30 June 2012BankOtherAgri-& OtherHomeConstr-AssetComm &SovereigncultureFinancialLoansuctionPersonalFinancingIndust.OtherTotal $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $MCash and liquid assets--7,519------7,519Receivables due from otherfinancial institutions--6,135------6,135Assets at fair value throughIncome Statement:Trading5,560-975----2,416-8,951Insurance (1)929-8,476----3,413-12,818Other--6------6Derivative assets3116629,508-31--4,846-34,762Available-for-sale investments25,639-26,604----479-52,722Loans, bills discountedand other receivables (2)1,6195,25010,225320,5702,79621,7728,214106,679-477,125Bank acceptances32,886191-603--6,032-9,715Other assets (3)37611841,16511321748014,02316,010Total on balance sheet Australia34,0988,26389,823321,7353,44121,8048,231124,34514,023625,763Credit risk exposures relating to off balance sheet assets:Guarantees1,2413425814903--2,766-5,216Loan commitments1,1178142,08257,1581,90318,923-32,674-114,671Other commitments96131,7704725--2,042-4,650Total Australia36,5529,12493,933378,9116,97240,7278,231161,82714,023750,300OverseasCredit risk exposures relating to on balance sheet assets:Cash and liquid assets--12,147------12,147Receivables due from otherfinancial institutions--4,751------4,751Assets at fair value throughIncome Statement:Trading407-859----3,599-4,865Insurance (1)--1,707------1,707Other967-7------974Derivative assets22513,157----792-4,175Available-for-sale investments6,948-1,156----1-8,105Loans, bills discountedand other receivables (2)10,2355,1983,15630,0633456564685,134-55,255Bank acceptances-------2-2Other assets (3)1915,3781--1371,7467,183Total on balance sheet overseas18,8015,20032,31830,0643456564699,5651,74699,164Credit risk exposures relating to off balance sheet assets:Guarantees-12-12--127-142Loan commitments3923751973,8491681,172-7,009-13,162Other commitments711--3--1,032-1,107Total overseas19,2645,57732,51733,9135281,82846917,7331,746113,575Total gross credit risk55,81614,701126,450412,8247,50042,5558,700179,56015,769863,875AustraliaCredit risk exposures relating to on balance sheet assets: 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Maximum Exposure to Credit Risk by Industry and Asset Class before Collateral Held or Other Credit Enhancements 

(1) In most cases the credit risk of insurance assets is borne by policyholders. However, on certain insurance contracts the Group retains exposure to credit risk. 

(2) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

(3) Loans, bills discounted and other receivables is presented gross of provisions for impairment and unearned income on lease receivables in line with Note 13. 

(4) Other assets predominantly comprises assets which do not give rise to credit risk exposure, including intangible assets, and property, plant and equipment, which are shown in 

"Other" for the purpose of reconciling to the Balance Sheet. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

183 

GroupAt 30 June 2011BankOtherAgri-& OtherHomeConstr-AssetComm &SovereigncultureFinancialLoansuctionPersonalFinancingIndust.OtherTotal $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $MAustraliaCredit risk exposures relating to on balance sheet assets:Cash and liquid assets--6,193------6,193Receivables due from otherfinancial institutions--5,203------5,203Assets at fair value throughIncome Statement:Trading11,129-670----3,430-15,229Insurance (1)844-9,871-109--2,559-13,383Other----------Derivative assets1433323,055-43--3,669-26,943Available-for-sale investments (2)14,851-23,184----641-38,676Loans, bills discountedand other receivables (2) (3)2,2125,2789,986306,2502,87722,1448,32898,538-455,613Bank acceptances43,071213-528--6,918-10,734Other assets (4)83435,1719454671837113,44320,127Total on balance sheet Australia29,2668,42583,546307,1953,60322,1518,346116,12613,443592,101Credit risk exposures relating to off balance sheet assets:Guarantees902916614550--3,478-4,327Loan commitments (2)3,2589671,80254,0152,89717,907-30,154-111,000Other commitments (2)42201,803259909--2,003-5,036Total Australia32,6569,44187,317361,4837,95940,0588,346151,76113,443712,464OverseasCredit risk exposures relating to on balance sheet assets:Cash and liquid assets--7,048------7,048Receivables due from otherfinancial institutions--5,190------5,190Assets at fair value throughIncome Statement:Trading1,961-1,201----2,078-5,240Insurance (1)--1,615------1,615Other2995496--3-21-824Derivative assets222-2,502----650-3,374Available-for-sale investments (2)4,793-1,046----656-6,495Loans, bills discountedand other receivables (3)4,6034,9206,98829,5913225591,2563,489-51,728Bank acceptances----------Other assets (4)23-24711--621,2341,568Total on balance sheet overseas11,9014,92526,33329,5923235621,2566,9561,23483,082Credit risk exposures relating to off balance sheet assets:Guarantees--3-13--119-135Loan commitments4,3413672893,3701541,164-5,649-15,334Other commitments311--2--268-302Total overseas16,2735,29326,62532,9624921,7261,25612,9921,23498,853Total gross credit risk48,92914,734113,942394,4458,45141,7849,602164,75314,677811,317 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Large Exposures  

Concentrations  of  exposure  to  any  debtor  or  counterparty  group  are  controlled  by  a  large  credit  exposure  policy,  which  defines  a 
graduated limit framework that restricts credit limits based on the internally assessed risk of the client, the type of client and the security 
cover. All exposures outside the policy  limits require approval by the Executive Risk Committee and are reported to the Board Risk 
Committee. 

The following table shows the aggregated number of the Group‟s Corporate and Industrial counterparty exposures (including direct and 
contingent exposures) which individually were greater than 5% of the Group‟s capital resources (Tier One and Tier Two capital): 

The  Group  has  a  good  quality  and  well  diversified  credit  portfolio,  with  60%  of  the  gross  loans  and  other  receivables  in  domestic 
mortgage loans and a further 6% in overseas mortgage loans primarily in New Zealand. Overseas loans account for 10% of loans and 
advances. 

The  Group  restricts  its  exposure  to  credit  losses  by  entering  into  master  netting  arrangements  with  counterparties  with  which  it 
undertakes  a  significant  volume  of  transactions.  Master  netting  arrangements  are  primarily  used  to  manage  the  risk  of  derivative 
transactions and off balance sheet exposures. Balance Sheet assets and liabilities are usually settled on a gross basis.  

The credit risk associated with favourable contracts is reduced by a master netting arrangement to the extent that if an event of default 
occurs, all amounts with the counterparty are terminated and settled on a net basis. The offsets obtained by applying master netting 
arrangements reduced the credit risk of the Group by approximately $18.6 billion as at 30 June 2012 (2011: $10.2 billion). 

Derivative  financial  instruments  expose  the  Group  to  credit  risk  where  there  is  a  positive  current  fair  value.  In  the  case  of  credit 
derivatives, the Group is also exposed to or protected from the risk of default of the underlying entity referenced by the derivative. For 
further information regarding derivatives see Note 11. 

The Group also nets its credit exposure through the operation of certain corporate facilities that allow on balance sheet netting for credit 
management purposes.  On balance sheet netting reduced the credit risk of the Group by approximately  $18.0 billion as at 30 June 
2012 (2011: $18.5 billion). 

Distribution of Financial Assets by Credit Classification 

When doubt arises as to the collectability of a credit facility, the financial instrument is classified and reported as individually impaired. 
Provisions for impairment are raised where there is objective evidence of impairment and for an amount adequate to cover assessed 
credit related losses. The Group regularly reviews its financial assets and monitors adherence to contractual terms. Credit risk-rated 
portfolios are assessed, at least at each Balance Sheet date, to determine whether the financial asset or portfolio of assets is impaired. 

The distribution of performing assets, past due assets, impaired assets and individually assessed provisions for impairment by type of 
financial instrument at 30 June 2012 was: 

Distribution of Financial Instruments by Credit Quality 

184 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group20122011NumberNumber5% to less than 10% of the Group's capital resources1-10% to less than 15% of the Group's capital resources--Group 2012Neither past Past due Impaired Individually  due nor but not non-  assessed impaired  impaired performing Restructured Gross provisions Net $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Cash and liquid assets19,666---19,666-19,666Receivables due from other financial institutions10,886---10,886-10,886Assets at fair value through Income Statement:Trading13,816---13,816-13,816Insurance14,525---14,525-14,525Other980---980-980Derivative assets38,929-6238,937-38,937Available-for-sale investments60,827---60,827-60,827Loans, bills discounted and other receivables:Australia462,48910,6683,88286477,125(1,920)475,205Overseas52,8412,0083367055,255(88)55,167Bank acceptances9,717---9,717-9,717Credit related commitments138,831-1125138,948-138,948823,50712,6764,336163840,682(2,008)838,674 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Distribution of Financial Instruments by Credit Quality (continued) 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

185 

Bank 2012Neither past Past due Impaired Individually due nor  but not non- assessed impaired impaired performing Restructured Gross provisions Net $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Cash and liquid assets17,952---17,952-17,952Receivables due from other financial institutions10,482---10,482-10,482Assets at fair value through Income Statement:Trading12,071---12,071-12,071Insurance-------Other980---980-980Derivative assets39,054-5239,061-39,061Available-for-sale investments120,047---120,047-120,047Loans, bills discounted and other receivables:Australia390,1008,6142,19631400,941(986)399,955Overseas10,44014135-10,589(25)10,564Bank acceptances9,715---9,715-9,715Shares in and loans to controlled entities71,526---71,526-71,526Credit related commitments118,584-574118,645-118,645800,9518,6282,39337812,009(1,011)810,998Group 2011Neither past Past due Impaired Individually  due nor  but not non- assessed  impaired  impaired performing Restructured Gross provisions Net $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Cash and liquid assets13,241---13,241-13,241Receivables due from other financial institutions10,393---10,393-10,393Assets at fair value through Income Statement:Trading20,469---20,469-20,469Insurance14,998---14,998-14,998Other824---824-824Derivative assets30,248-69-30,317-30,317Available-for-sale investments45,171---45,171-45,171Loans, bills discounted and other receivables:Australia439,05612,0604,45938455,613(2,031)453,582Overseas48,8082,26746418951,728(94)51,634Bank acceptances10,734---10,734-10,734Credit related commitments136,056-78-136,134-136,134769,99814,3275,070227789,622(2,125)787,497 
 
 
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Distribution of Financial Instruments by Credit Quality (continued) 

Financial Assets Individually Assessed as Impaired 

186 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Bank2011Neither past Past due Impaired Individually due nor  but not non- assessed impaired impaired performing Restructured Gross provisions Net $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Cash and liquid assets10,979---10,979-10,979Receivables due from other financial institutions10,123---10,123-10,123Assets at fair value through Income Statement:Trading17,765---17,765-17,765Insurance-------Other300---300-300Derivative assets30,663-68-30,731-30,731Available-for-sale investments75,699---75,699-75,699Loans, bills discounted and other receivables:Australia371,5739,5192,68138383,811(1,050)382,761Overseas8,410917138,593(31)8,562Bank acceptances10,734---10,734-10,734Shares in and loans to controlled entities47,357---47,357-47,357Credit related commitments118,143-51-118,194-118,194701,7469,5282,97141714,286(1,081)713,205Group 20122011Gross Individually Net Gross Individually Net Impaired Assessed Impaired Impaired Assessed Impaired Assets Provisions Assets Assets Provisions Assets $M $M $M $M $M $M AustraliaHome loans919(256)663734(202)532Other personal29(11)1810(11)(1)Asset financing53(14)3985(37)48Other commercial and industrial3,079(1,639)1,4403,811(1,781)2,030Financial assets individually assessed as impaired - Australia4,080(1,920)2,1604,640(2,031)2,609OverseasHome loans163(28)135177(25)152Personal5-51-1Asset financing7-7---Other commercial and industrial244(60)184479(69)410Financial assets individually assessed as impaired - overseas419(88)331657(94)563Total financial assets individually assessed as impaired4,499(2,008)2,4915,297(2,125)3,172 
 
 
  
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Financial Assets Individually Assessed as Impaired (continued) 

Distribution of Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables by Impairment Status 

The  table  below  segregates  the  loans,  bills  discounted  and  other  receivables  into  neither  past  due  nor  impaired,  past  due  but  not 
impaired and impaired. An asset is considered to be past due when any payment under the contractual terms has been missed. The 
amount included as past due is the entire contractual balance, rather than the overdue portion.  

The split in the tables below does not reflect the basis by which the Group manages credit risk. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

187 

Bank 20122011Gross Individually Net Gross Individually Net Impaired Assessed Impaired Impaired Assessed Impaired Assets Provisions Assets Assets Provisions Assets $M $M $M $M $M $M AustraliaHome loans767(209)558639(157)482Other personal14(9)57(9)(2)Asset financing42(14)2854(34)20Other commercial and industrial1,463(754)7092,135(850)1,285Financial assets individually assessed as impaired - Australia2,286(986)1,3002,835(1,050)1,785OverseasHome loans------Personal------Asset financing3-3---Other commercial and industrial141(25)116177(31)146Financial assets individually assessed as impaired - overseas144(25)119177(31)146Total financial assets individually assessed as impaired2,430(1,011)1,4193,012(1,081)1,931Group Bank 2012201120122011Distribution of loans by credit quality$M $M $M $M Gross loans AustraliaNeither past due nor impaired462,489439,056390,100371,573Past due but not impaired10,66812,0608,6149,519Impaired3,9684,4972,2272,719Total Australia477,125455,613400,941383,811OverseasNeither past due nor impaired52,84148,80810,4408,410Past due but not impaired2,0082,267149Impaired406653135174Total overseas55,25551,72810,5898,593Total gross loans 532,380507,341411,530392,404 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Credit Quality of Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables Neither Past Due nor Impaired 

For the analysis below, financial assets that are neither past due nor impaired have been segmented into investment, pass and weak 
classifications. This segmentation of loans in retail and risk-rated portfolios is based on the mapping of a customer‟s internally assessed 
PD to Standard and Poor‟s ratings, reflecting a client‟s ability to meet their credit obligations. In particular, retail PD pools have been 
aligned to the Group‟s PD grades which are consistent with rating agency views of credit quality segmentation. 

Investment  grade  is  representative  of  lower  assessed  default  probabilities  with  other  classifications  reflecting  progressively  higher 
default risk. No consideration is given to LGD, the impact of any recoveries or the potential benefit of mortgage insurance. 

 Loans which were neither past due nor impaired  

(1) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

(2) For New Zealand Housing Loans, PDs reflect Reserve Bank of New Zealand requirements resulting in higher PDs on average and lower grading. 

188 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group2012OtherHomeAssetCommercialLoansPersonalFinancingand IndustrialTotalCredit grading$M$M$M$M $MAustraliaInvestment211,2904,00652579,155294,976Pass87,43213,0427,42439,627147,525Weak12,9233,598773,39019,988Total Australia311,64520,6468,026122,172462,489Overseas (1)Investment5,07068116,80021,939Pass22,3683754056,46129,609Weak8605-4281,293Total overseas28,29844840623,68952,841Total loans which were neither past due nor impaired339,94321,0948,432145,861515,330Group2011OtherHomeAssetCommercialLoansPersonalFinancingand IndustrialTotalCredit grading (1)$M  $M$M$M$MAustraliaInvestment193,9833,76249966,887265,131Pass90,98914,1927,46241,447154,090Weak11,7303,0991554,85119,835Total Australia296,70221,0538,116113,185439,056Overseas (2)Investment3,2676528113,54417,157Pass23,9142689115,72830,821Weak4281115376830Total overseas27,6093441,20719,64848,808Total loans which were neither past due nor impaired 324,31121,3979,323132,833487,864 
 
 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Loans which were neither past due nor impaired (continued) 

(1) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

189 

Bank 2012Other Home Asset Commercial Loans Personal Financing and Industrial Total Credit grading$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaInvestment165,4643,51244376,234245,653Pass86,21112,1667,13724,373129,887Weak9,6703,368631,45914,560Total Australia261,34519,0467,643102,066390,100OverseasInvestment231-19,1579,389Pass17118188431,050Weak1---1Total overseas403181910,00010,440Total loans which were neither past due nor impaired261,74819,0647,662112,066400,540Bank 2011Other Home Asset Commercial Loans PersonalFinancingand IndustrialTotal Credit grading (1)$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaInvestment160,3993,40038564,069228,253Pass80,94413,2526,81127,169128,176Weak10,2722,7811431,94815,144Total Australia251,61519,4337,33993,186371,573OverseasInvestment--2827,0087,290Pass36519626721,118Weak--2-2Total overseas365193467,6808,410Total loans which were neither past due nor impaired251,98019,4527,685100,866379,983 
 
 
  
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Age Analysis of Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables that are Past Due but Not Impaired 

For  the  purposes  of  this  analysis  an  asset  is  considered  to  be  past  due  when  any  payment  under  the  contractual  terms  has  been 
missed.  

Past due loans are not classified as impaired if no loss to the Group is expected or if the loans are unsecured consumer loans and less 
than 180 days past due. 

It has not been practicable to determine the fair value of collateral held against these assets. 

 (1) Collateral held against past due Home Loans receivables comprises residential and other real estate with an estimated fair value of at least  the amounts shown. 
Personal receivables are generally unsecured. It has not been practicable to determine the fair value of collateral held against past due Asset Financing and Other 
Commercial and Industrial receivables. 

(2) Personal loans, credit cards and other personal financing balances are generally unsecured and written off at 180 days past due unless agreements have been made 

with the debtor. 

190 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group 2012Other HomeAsset Commercial LoansPersonal (2)Financing and Industrial Total Loans which were past due but not impaired (1)$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaPast due 1 - 29 days3,276637688804,861Past due 30 - 59 days1,554165451491,913Past due 60 - 89 days88610013971,096Past due 90 - 179 days1,11318211331,429Past due 180 days or more1,1861381621,369Total Australia8,0151,0971351,42110,668OverseasPast due 1 - 29 days1,129144421271,442Past due 30 - 59 days2322875272Past due 60 - 89 days971124114Past due 90 - 179 days911234110Past due 180 days or more5481770Total overseas1,603203551472,008Total loans which were past due but not impaired 9,6181,3001901,56812,676Group 2011Other Home Asset Commercial Loans Personal (2)Financing and Industrial Total Loans which were past due but not impaired (1)$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaPast due 1 - 29 days3,309586501,2765,221Past due 30 - 59 days1,708171212182,118Past due 60 - 89 days951110161521,229Past due 90 - 179 days1,373191231771,764Past due 180 days or more1,47323172151,728Total Australia8,8141,0811272,03812,060OverseasPast due 1 - 29 days1,266163371431,609Past due 30 - 59 days2442288282Past due 60 - 89 days941123110Past due 90 - 179 days12113216152Past due 180 days or more805-29114Total overseas1,805214491992,267Total loans which were past due but not impaired 10,6191,2951762,23714,327 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Age Analysis of Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables that are Past Due but Not Impaired (continued) 

 (1) Collateral held against past due Housing Loans receivables comprises residential and other real estate with an estimated fair value of at least the amounts shown. 
Other personal receivables are generally unsecured. It has not been practicable to determine the fair value of collateral held against past due Asset Financing and 
Other Commercial/ Industrial receivables. 

(2) Personal loans, credit cards and other personal financing balances are generally unsecured and written off at 180 days past due unless agreements have been made 

with the debtor. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

191 

Bank 2012Other Home Asset Commercial Loans Personal (2)Financing and Industrial Total Loans which were past due but not impaired (1)$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaPast due 1 - 29 days2,692566524463,756Past due 30 - 59 days1,32114839931,601Past due 60 - 89 days772911246921Past due 90 - 179 days97716910571,213Past due 180 days or more1,049132591,123Total Australia6,8119871157018,614OverseasPast due 1 - 29 days12---12Past due 30 - 59 days1---1Past due 60 - 89 days-----Past due 90 - 179 days1---1Past due 180 days or more-----Total overseas14---14Total loans which were past due but not impaired 6,8259871157018,628Bank 2011Other Home Asset Commercial Loans Personal (2)Financing and Industrial Total Loans which were past due but not impaired (1)$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaPast due 1 - 29 days2,668510366213,835Past due 30 - 59 days1,449149161321,746Past due 60 - 89 days796991384992Past due 90 - 179 days1,19517219931,479Past due 180 days or more1,32423161041,467Total Australia7,4329531001,0349,519OverseasPast due 1 - 29 days7---7Past due 30 - 59 days1---1Past due 60 - 89 days-----Past due 90 - 179 days1---1Past due 180 days or more-----Total overseas9---9Total loans which were past due but not impaired 7,4419531001,0349,528 
 
  
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Impaired Assets by Classification 

Assets  in  credit  risk-rated  portfolios  are  assessed  for  objective  evidence  that  the  financial  asset  or  portfolio  of  assets  is  impaired. 
Impaired assets in the retail segment are those facilities that are not well secured and are past due 180 days or more. 

Impaired assets are split into the following categories according to APRA‟s prudential standards:  

 
 
 

Non-Performing Facilities;  
Restructured Facilities; and 
Assets Acquired Through Security Enforcement. 

Non-performing  facilities  are  facilities  against  which  an  individually  assessed  provision  for  impairment  has  been  raised  and  facilities 
where loss of principal or interest is anticipated. 

Restructured facilities are facilities where the original contractual terms have been modified due to financial difficulties of the borrower. 
Interest  on  these  facilities  is taken  to  the  Income Statement.  Failure to comply fully  with  the modified terms  will  result in  immediate 
reclassification to non-performing. 

Assets acquired through security enforcement include: 

  Other Real Estate Owned, comprising real estate where the Group assumed ownership or foreclosed in settlement of a debt; and 
  Other  Assets  Acquired  through  Securities  Enforcement,  comprising  assets  other  than  real  estate  where  the  Group  assumed 

ownership or foreclosed in settlement of a debt. 

Assets acquired through security enforcement are sold through the Group‟s existing disposal processes. These are generally expected 
to take no longer than six months. 

The Group does not manage credit risk based solely on arrears categorisation, but also uses credit risk rating principles as described 
earlier in this note. 

192 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group 20122011201020092008$M $M $M $M $M AustraliaNon-Performing assets:Gross balances3,9874,6024,6483,514620Less provisions for impairment(1,920)(2,031)(1,915)(1,560)(248)Net non-performing assets2,0672,5712,7331,954372Restructured assets:Gross balances933878119-Less provisions for impairment-----Net restructured assets933878119-Assets Acquired Through Security Enforcement:Gross balances-----Less provisions for impairment-----Net assets acquired through security enforcement-----Net Australia impaired assets2,1602,6092,8112,073372OverseasNon-Performing assets:Gross balances34946832140763Less provisions for impairment(88)(94)(77)(169)(31)Net non-performing assets26137424423832Restructured assets:Gross balances70189169170-Less provisions for impairment-----Net restructured assets70189169170-Assets Acquired Through Security Enforcement:Gross balances-----Less provisions for impairment-----Net assets acquired through security enforcement-----Net overseas impaired assets33156341340832Total net impaired assets2,4913,1723,2242,481404 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Impaired Assets by Classification (continued) 

 (1) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

Impaired Loans by Industry and Status 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

193 

Group Australia Overseas Total Australia Overseas Total 201220122012201120112011Impaired assets by size (1)$M $M $M $M $M $M Less than $1 million9251811,1068292151,044$1 million to $10 million1,3591101,4691,4141291,543Greater than $10 million1,7961281,9242,3973132,710Total4,0804194,4994,6406575,297Group 20122011201020092008$M $M $M $M $M Gross impaired assets - opening balance5,2975,2164,210683421Acquisitions---770-New and increased3,9294,6195,4554,3741,104Balances written off(1,687)(1,798)(1,904)(1,056)(470)Returned to performing or repaid(3,040)(2,740)(2,545)(561)(372)Gross impaired assets - closing balance4,4995,2975,2164,210683Movement in gross impaired assetsGroup 2012Gross Individually Net Impaired Assessed Impaired Net Loans Loans Provisions Loans Write-offs Recoveries Write-offs Industry $M $M $M $M $M $M $M AustraliaSovereign1,619------Agriculture5,250224(89)13532-32Bank and other financial10,225341(235)10651(17)34Home loans320,570910(256)65488(5)83Construction2,796218(152)6645-45Personal21,77229(11)18657(147)510Asset Financing8,21453(14)3938(17)21Other commercial and industrial106,6792,193(1,163)1,030884(30)854Total Australia477,1253,968(1,920)2,0481,795(216)1,579OverseasSovereign10,235------Agriculture5,19856(7)495-5Bank and other financial3,15679(6)731-1Home loans30,063162(28)13424-24Construction345------Personal6565-519(8)11Asset Financing4687-7---Other commercial and industrial5,13497(47)5033(4)29Total overseas 55,255406(88)31882(12)70Gross balances 532,3804,374(2,008)2,3661,877(228)1,649 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 38 Credit Risk (continued) 

Impaired Loans by Industry and Status (continued) 

(1) Comparatives have been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

194 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group 2011Gross Individually Net Impaired Assessed Impaired Net Loans Loans Provisions Loans Write-offs Recoveries Write-offs Industry $M $M $M $M $M $M $M AustraliaSovereign2,212------Agriculture5,278191(87)10410-10Bank and other financial9,986387(254)133107(3)104Home Loans306,250734(202)53284(43)41Construction2,877233(133)10089-89Personal (1)22,14410(11)(1)567(134)433Asset Financing8,32885(37)4826(2)24Other commercial and industrial (1)98,5382,857(1,307)1,550989(17)972Total Australia455,6134,497(2,031)2,4661,872(199)1,673OverseasSovereign4,603------Agriculture4,920123(11)11217-17Bank and other financial6,98859(1)581-1Home Loans29,591177(25)15226-26Construction322---1-1Personal5591-122(7)15Asset Financing1,256------Other commercial and industrial3,489293(57)23636-36Total overseas 51,728653(94)559103(7)96Gross balances 507,3415,150(2,125)3,0251,975(206)1,769 
 
 
  
Note 39 Market Risk 

Market Risk 

Market risk is the potential of loss arising from adverse changes 
in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, commodity and equity 
prices,  credit  spreads,  lease  residual  risk  values,  and  implied 
volatility  levels  for  all  assets  and  liabilities  where  options  are 
transacted. 

For the purposes of market risk management, the Group makes 
a  distinction  between  Traded  and  Non-Traded  Market  Risks. 
Traded Market Risks principally arise from the Group‟s trading 
book  activities  within  the  Institutional  Banking  and  Markets 
business, IFS Asia businesses, ASB and Bankwest. 

The  predominant  Non-Traded  Market  Risk  is  IRRBB.  Other 
Non-Traded  Market  Risks  are  liquidity  risk,  funding  risk, 
structural foreign exchange risk arising from capital investments 
in  offshore  operations,  Non-Traded  Equity  Risk,  market  risk 
arising  from  the  insurance  business  and  lease  residual  value 
risk. 

The  Group‟s  assessment  of  regulatory  capital  required  under 
the  Basel  II  framework  is  discussed  in  Note  30.  Liquidity  and 
funding risks are discussed in Note 40. 

Market Risk Measurement 

The Group uses Value-at-Risk (VaR) as one of the measures of 
Traded and Non-Traded Market Risk. VaR measures potential 
loss using historically observed market volatility and correlation 
between  different  markets.  The  VaR  measured  for  Traded 
Market  Risk  uses  two  years  of  daily  market  movements.  The 
VaR  measure  for  Non-Traded  Banking  Book  Market  Risk  is 
based on six years of daily market movement history. 

VaR  is  modelled  at  a  97.5%  confidence  level  over  a  1  day 
holding  period  for  trading  book  positions  and  over  a  20  day 
holding  period  for IRRBB,  insurance  business market  risk  and 
Non-Traded Equity Risk. 

Stressed VaR  is  also  calculated  for  Traded  Market  Risk  using 
the same methodology as the regular Traded Market Risk VaR 
except  that  the  historical  data  used  is  taken  from  a  one  year 
observation period of significant market volatility as seen during 
the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). 

It  should  be  noted  that  because  VaR  is  driven  by  actual 
historical  observations,  it  is  not  an  estimate  of  the  maximum 
loss that the Group could  experience from  an  extreme market 
event.  As  a  result  of  this  limitation,  management  also  uses 
stress  testing  to  measure  the  potential  for  economic  loss  at 
significantly higher confidence levels than 97.5%. Management 
then  uses  the  results  in  decisions  made  to  manage  the 
economic impact of market risk positions. 

The stress events considered for Market Risk are extreme but 
plausible  market  movements,  and  have  been  back-tested 
against moves seen during 2008 and 2009 at the height of the 
GFC.  The  results are  reported  to  the  Risk  Committee  and  the 
Group‟s  Asset  and  Liability  Committee  (ALCO)  on  a  regular 
basis.  Stress  tests  also  include  a  range  of  forward  looking 
macro scenario stresses. 

The  following  table  provides  a  summary  of  VaR,  across  the 
Group, for those market risk types where it is appropriate to use 
this measure. 

Notes to the Financial Statements 

 (1) The risk on these exposures has been represented in this table using a 1 day 
holding period. In practice however, these „non-traded‟ exposures are managed 
to a longer expected holding period. 

(2) Average VaR calculated for each twelve month period. 

Traded Market Risk 

The  Group  trades  and  distributes  financial  markets  products 
and  provides  risk  management  services  to  customers  on  a 
global basis. 

The objectives of the Group‟s financial markets activities are to: 

 

 

 

Provide  risk  management  capital  market  products  and 
services to customers; 
Efficiently  assist  in  managing  the  Group‟s  own  market 
risks; and 
Conduct  profitable  market  making  within  a  controlled 
framework,  to  assist  in  the  provision  of  products  and 
services to customers. 

The Group maintains access to markets by quoting bid and offer 
prices  with  other  market  makers  and  carries  an  inventory  of 
treasury,  capital  market  and  risk  management  instruments, 
including a broad range of securities and derivatives. 

The  Group  is  a  participant  in  all  major  markets  across  foreign 
exchange  and 
interest  rate  products,  debt,  equity  and 
commodities  products  as  required  to  provide  treasury,  capital 
markets  and 
institutional, 
risk  management  services 
corporate, middle market and retail customers.  

to 

Income  is  earned  from  spreads  achieved  through  market 
making  and  from  taking  market  risk.  Trading  positions  are 
valued  at fair  value  and taken to profit and loss  on a mark-to-
market basis. Market liquidity risk is controlled by concentrating 
trading activity in highly liquid markets. 

Trading assets at fair value through the Income Statement are 
in  Note  10.  Trading  liabilities  at  fair  value  through  the  Income 
Statement are in Note 20. Note 3 details the income contribution 
of trading activities to the income of the Group.  

The  Group  measures  and  manages  Traded  Market  Risk 
through  a  combination  of  VaR  and  stress  test  limits,  together 
instruments, 
with  other  key  controls 
sensitivity limits and term restrictions. Thus Traded Market Risk 
is  managed  under  a  clearly  defined  risk  appetite  within  the 
market  risk  policy  and  limit  structure  approved  by  the  Risk 
Committee of the Board. Risk is monitored by an independent 
Market Risk Management (MRM) function. 

including  permitted 

The following table provides a summary of VaR for the trading 
book of the Group. The VaR for ASB and Bankwest is shown 
separately; all other data relates to the Group and is split by risk 
type. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

195 

Average (2)As atAverage (2)As atTotal Market RiskJuneJuneJuneJuneVaR (1 day 97.5% 2012201220112011confidence)$M$M$M$MTraded Market Risk 11. 68. 712. 010. 2Non-Traded Interest Rate Risk (1)27. 718. 928. 332. 6Non-Traded Equity Risk (1)21. 521. 023. 015. 0Non-Traded Insurance Market Risk (1)8. 88. 010. 39. 6 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 39 Market Risk (continued) 

(1) Average VaR calculated for each twelve month period. 

Non-Traded Market Risk 

Non-traded  market  risk  activities  are  governed  by  the  Group 
market  risk  framework  approved  by  the  Risk  Committee.  The 
Group market risk framework governs all the activities performed 
in  relation  to  Non-Traded  Market  Risk.  Implementation  of  the 
policy, procedures and limits for the Group is the responsibility of 
the  Group  Executive  undertaking  activities  with  Non-Traded 
Market  Risk.  The  Group‟s  Risk  division  performs 
risk 
measurement  and  monitoring  activities  of  Non-Traded  Market 
Risk.  Ownership  and  management  responsibility  for  CBA 
domestic  operations  are  assumed  by  Group  Treasury. 
Management  actions  conventionally  include  hedging  activities 
using  a  range  of  policy  approved  derivative  instruments. 
Independent  management  of  the  Non-Traded  Market  Risk 
activities  of  offshore  banking  subsidiaries  is  delegated  to  the 
CEO  of  each  entity,  with  oversight  by  the  local  ALCO.  Senior 
management oversight is provided by the Group‟s ALCO. 

Interest Rate Risk in the Banking Book 

Interest  rate  risk  is  the  current  and  prospective  impact  to  the 
Group‟s  financial  condition  due  to  adverse  changes  in  interest 
rates to which the Group‟s Balance Sheet is exposed. Maturity 
transformation  activities  of  the  Group  result  in  mismatched 
assets  and  liabilities  positions  which  direct  that  the  propensity, 
timing and quantum of interest rate movements have undesired 
outcomes over both the short term and long term. The Group‟s 
objective  is  to  manage  interest  rate  risk  to  achieve  stable  and 
sustainable net interest income in the long term. 

The  Group measures  and manages the  impact  of  interest  rate 
risk in two ways: 

(a) Next 12 months’ earnings 

Interest  rate  risk  from  an  earnings  perspective  is  the  impact 
based  on changes to the  net interest  income  over  the  next  12 
months. 

The  risk  to  net  interest  income  over  the  next  12  months  from 
changes  in  interest  rates  is  measured  on  a  monthly  basis. 
Earnings  risk  is  measured  through  sensitivity  analysis,  which 
instantaneous  100  basis  point  parallel  shock 
applies  an 
(increase) in interest rates across the yield curve.  

The prospective change to the net interest income is measured 
by using an Asset/Liability Management simulation model which 

196 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

incorporates  both  existing  and  anticipated  new  business  in  its 
assessment.  The  change  in  the  balance  sheet  product  mix, 
growth,  funding  and  pricing  strategies  is  incorporated.  Assets 
and liabilities that reprice directly from observable market rates 
are measured based on the full extent of the rate shock that is 
applied. 

Products  that  are  priced  based  on  Group  administered  or 
discretionary  interest  rates  and  that  are  impacted  by  customer 
behaviour are measured by taking into consideration the historic 
repricing  strategy  of  the  Bank  and  repricing  behaviours  of 
customers.  In  addition  to  considering  how  the  products  have 
repriced in the past the expected change in price based on both 
the  current  and  anticipated  competitive  market  forces  are  also 
considered in the sensitivity analyses. 

The  figures  in  the  following  table  represent  the  potential 
unfavourable change to the Group‟s net interest earnings during 
the  year  based  on  a  100  basis  point  parallel  rate  shock 
(decrease). 

(b) Economic Value  

Interest rate risk from the economic value perspective is based 
on a 20 day 97.5% VaR measure. 

Measuring  the  change  in  the  economic  value  of  equity  is  an 
assessment of the long term impact to the earnings potential of 
the  Group  present  valued  to  the  current  date.  The  Group 
assesses  the  potential  change  in  its  economic  value  of  equity 
through  the  application  of  the  VaR  methodology.  A  20  day 
97.5% VaR measure is used to capture the net economic value 
impact over the long term or total life of all balance sheet assets 
and liabilities to adverse changes in interest rates. The impact of 
customer  prepayments  on  the  contractual  cash  flows  for  fixed 
rate  products  is  included  in  the  calculation.  Cash  flows  for 
discretionary  priced  products  are  behaviourally  adjusted  and 
repriced at the resultant profile. 

The figures in the following table represent the net present value 
of  the  expected  change  in  the  Group‟s  future  earnings  in  all 
future  periods for the  remaining  term  of  all  existing  assets and 
liabilities. 

(1) Average VaR calculated for each twelve month period. 

(2) VaR is only for entities that have material risk exposure. 

(3) ASB data (expressed in NZD) is for the month-end date. 

Average (1)As atAverage (1)As atTraded Market RiskJuneJuneJuneJuneVaR (1 day 97.5% 2012201220112011confidence)$M$M$M$MInterest rate risk5. 25. 96. 93. 5Foreign exchange risk 1. 00. 72. 11. 8Equities risk 2. 21. 71. 72. 1Commodities risk 1. 30. 81. 21. 3Credit spread risk2. 82. 33. 32. 8Diversification benefit (6. 6)(6. 2)(8. 1)(6. 9)Total general market risk 5. 95. 27. 14. 6Undiversified risk 3. 42. 43. 34. 3ASB Bank 2. 21. 01. 51. 2Bankwest 0. 10. 10. 10. 1Total 11. 68. 712. 010. 2JuneJuneNet Interest20122011Earnings at Risk$M$MAverage monthly exposureAUD152. 2162. 9NZD20. 79. 3High monthly exposureAUD284. 3241. 2NZD32. 526. 1Low monthly exposureAUD40. 774. 3NZD11. 51. 1As at balance dateAUD81. 1175. 6NZD13. 726. 1Average (1)Average (1)JuneJuneNon-Traded Interest Rate VaR20122011(20 day 97.5% confidence) (2)$M$MAUD Interest rate risk123. 7126. 7NZD Interest rate risk (3)1. 41. 7 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

(1) Average VaR calculated for each twelve month period. 

(2) VaR in relation to the investment of shareholder funds. 

(3)  VaR  in  relation  to  product  portfolios  where  the  Group  has  a  guaranteed 

liability to policyholders. 

Further information on the Life Insurance Business can be found 
in Note 32. 

Structural Foreign Exchange Risk 

Structural Foreign Exchange Risk is the risk that movements in 
foreign  exchange  rates  may  have  an  adverse  effect  on  the 
Group‟s Australian dollar earnings and economic value when the 
Group‟s foreign currency denominated earnings and capital are 
translated  into  Australian  dollars.  The  Group‟s  only  material 
exposure  to  this  risk  arises from its  New  Zealand  banking  and 
insurance subsidiaries. This risk is managed in accordance with 
the following Risk Committee of the Board approved principles: 

 

 

Permanently deployed capital in a foreign jurisdiction is not 
hedged; and 

Forecast earnings from the Group‟s New Zealand banking 
and insurance subsidiaries are hedged. 

The management of structural foreign exchange risk is regularly 
reported to the Group‟s ALCO. 

Lease Residual Value Risk 

The Group takes Lease Residual Value Risk on assets such as 
industrial,  mining,  rail,  aircraft,  marine,  technology,  healthcare 
and other equipment. A lease residual value guarantee exposes 
the business to the movement in second-hand asset prices. The 
Lease  Residual  Value  Risk  within  the  Group  is  controlled 
through  a  risk  management  framework  approved  by  the  Risk 
Committee  of  the  Board.  Supporting  this  framework  is  an 
internal  Market  Risk  Standard  document  which  has  a  risk  limit 
framework  which  includes  asset,  geographic  and  maturity 
concentration limits and stress testing which is performed by the 
MRM function. 

Commonwealth Bank Group Super Fund 

The  Commonwealth  Bank  Group  Super  Fund  (the  Fund)  was 
previously  called  the  Officers  Superannuation  Fund  and  is  the 
staff superannuation fund for the Group‟s Australian employees 
and  former  employees. Wealth  Risk  Management  and  Human 
Resources manage the risks of the Fund on behalf of the Group. 
Regular  reporting  is  provided  to  senior  management  via  the 
CBA  Asset  and  Liability  Committee  and  the  Board  Risk 
Committee on the status of the surplus, risk sensitivities and risk 
management options. For further information on the Fund, refer 
to Note 41. 

Note 39 Market Risk (continued) 

Non-Traded Equity Risk 

The  Group  retains  Non-Traded  Equity  Risk  through  strategic 
investments  and  business  development  activities  in  divisions 
Institutional  Banking  and  Markets,  and  Wealth 
including 
Management.  This  activity 
to  governance 
arrangements  approved  by  the  Risk  Committee  of  the  Board, 
and  is  monitored  on  a  decentralised  basis  within  the  Market 
Risk Management (MRM) function. An indicative VaR measure 
is as follows: 

is  subject 

Market Risk in Insurance Businesses 

Modest in the broader Group context, a significant component of 
Non-Traded  Market  Risk  activities  result  from  the  holding  of 
assets related to the Life Insurance businesses. There are two 
main sources of market risk in these businesses: (i) market risk 
arising  from  guarantees  made  to  policyholders;  and  (ii)  market 
risk arising from the investment of Shareholders‟ capital. 

A second order market risk also arises for the Group from assets 
held for investment linked policies. On this type of contract the 
policyholder  takes  the  risk  of  falls  in  the  market  value  of  the 
assets. However, falls in market value also impact funds under 
management and reduce the fee income collected for this class 
of business.  

Guarantees (to Policyholders) 

life  insurance  or 

All  financial  assets  within  the  Life  Insurance  Statutory  Funds 
directly  support  either  the  Group's 
life 
investment  contracts.  Market  risk  arises  for  the  Group  on 
contracts where the liabilities to policyholders are guaranteed by 
the  Group.  The  Group  manages  this  risk  by  the  monthly 
monitoring  and  rebalancing  of  assets  to  contract  liabilities. 
However,  for  some  contracts  the  ability  to  match  asset 
characteristics with policy obligations is constrained by a number 
of  factors  including  regulatory  requirements  or  the  lack  of 
investments  that  substantially  align  cash  flows  with  the  cash 
payments to be made to policyholders.  

Shareholders’ Capital 

A portion of financial assets held within the Insurance business, 
both within the Statutory Funds and in the Shareholder Funds of 
the  Life  Insurance  company  represents  shareholder  (Group) 
capital. Market risk also arises for the Group on the investment 
of  this  capital.  Shareholders‟  funds  in  the  Australian  Life 
Insurance businesses are invested 84% in income assets (cash 
and  fixed  interest)  and  16%  in  growth  assets  (shares  and 
property) as at 30 June 2012. 

A  20  day  97.5%  VaR  measure  is  used  to  capture  the  Non-
Traded Market Risk exposures. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

197 

As atAs atJuneJuneNon-Traded Equity VaR 20122011(20 day 97.5% confidence)$M$MVaR 94. 067. 0Average (1)Average (1)Non-Traded VaR in Australian JuneJuneLife Insurance Business 20122011(20 day 97.5% confidence)$M$MShareholder funds (2)23. 227. 3Guarantees (to Policyholders) (3)30. 743. 7 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 40 Liquidity and Funding Risk 

Overview  

The  Group‟s  liquidity  and  funding  policies  are  designed  to 
ensure it will meet its obligations as and when they fall due, by 
ensuring it is able to borrow funds on an unsecured basis, or has 
sufficient quality assets to borrow against on a secured basis, or 
has  sufficient  quality  liquid  assets  to  sell  to  raise  immediate 
funds without adversely affecting the Group‟s net asset value. 

The  Group‟s  funding  policies  and  risk  management  framework 
are  designed  to  complement  the  Group‟s  liquidity  policies  by 
providing for an optimal liability structure to finance the Group‟s 
businesses.  The long-term stability  and security  of the Group‟s 
funding  is  also  designed  to  protect  its  liquidity  position  in  the 
event of a crisis specific to the Group. 

The Group‟s liquidity policies are designed to ensure it maintains 
sufficient  cash  balances  and  liquid  asset  holdings  to  meet  its 
obligations to customers, in both ordinary market conditions and 
during periods of extreme stress. These policies are intended to 
protect  the  value  of  the  Group‟s  operations  across  its  Retail 
Banking  Services,  Business  and  Private  Banking,  Institutional 
Banking  and  Markets,  Wealth  Management,  New  Zealand, 
Bankwest,  and  overseas  businesses,  during  periods  of 
unfavourable market conditions. 

The Group‟s funding policies are designed to achieve diversified 
sources of funding by product, term, maturity date, investor type, 
investor  location,  jurisdiction,  currency  and  concentration,  on  a 
cost  effective  basis.  This  objective  applies  to  the  Group‟s 
wholesale and retail funding activities. 

The Risk Management Framework for Liquidity and 
Funding 

The  Group‟s  liquidity  and  funding  policies  are  approved  by  the 
Board  and  agreed  with  APRA.  The  Group  has  an  Asset  and 
Liability  Committee  whose  charter  includes  reviewing  the 
management  of  assets  and  liabilities,  reviewing  liquidity  and 
funding  policies  and  strategies,  as  well  as  regularly  monitoring 
compliance  with  those  policies  across  the  Group.  The  Group 
Treasury  division  manages  the  Group‟s  liquidity  and  funding 
positions  in  accordance  with  the  Group‟s  liquidity  policy; 
including  monitoring  and  satisfying  the  liquidity  needs  of  the 
Group and its subsidiaries. 

Larger  domestic  subsidiaries,  such  as  Bankwest  and 
subsidiaries  within  the  Colonial  Group,  also  apply  their  own 
liquidity  and  funding  methods  to  address  their  specific  needs. 
The Group‟s New Zealand banking subsidiary ASB, manages its 
own domestic liquidity and funding needs in accordance with its 
own  liquidity  policies  and  the  policies  of  the  Group.  ASB‟s 
liquidity  policy  is  also  overseen  by  the  RBNZ.  The  Group  also 
has  a  relatively  small  banking  subsidiary  in  Indonesia  that 
manages its own liquidity and funding on a similar basis. 

The Group‟s Financial Services and Risk Management divisions 
provide prudential oversight of the Group‟s liquidity and funding 
risk  and  manage  the  Group‟s  relationship  with  prudential 
regulators. 

Liquidity and Funding Policies and Management 

The Group‟s liquidity and funding policies provide that: 

 

 

Balance sheet assets that cannot be liquidated quickly are 
funded  with  deposits  or  term  borrowings  that  meet 
minimum  maturity  requirements  with  appropriate  liquidity 
buffers; 
limits  are 
term  wholesale 
Short  and 
established and reviewed regularly based on surveys and 

funding 

long 

198 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 

 

 

analysis of market capacity; 
A minimum level of assets are retained in highly liquid form; 
The  level  of  liquid  assets:  complies  with  crisis  scenario 
assumptions  related  to  “worst  case”  wholesale  and  retail 
market  conditions;  is  adequate  to  meet  known  funding 
obligations  over  certain  timeframes;  and  are  allocated 
across Australian dollar and foreign currency denominated 
securities in accordance with specific calculations; 
Certain  levels  of  liquid  assets  are  held  to  provide  for  the 
risk  of  the  Group‟s  committed  but  undrawn  lending 
obligations being drawn by customers, as calculated based 
on draw down estimates and forecasts; 

levels  of 

The  Group  maintains  certain 
liquid  asset 
categories  within  its  liquid  assets  portfolio.  The  first 
category  includes  negotiable  certificates  of  deposit  of 
Australian  banks,  bank  bills,  Commonwealth  of  Australia 
Government  and  Australian  state  and  semi-government 
bonds and supra-national bonds eligible for repurchase by 
the RBA at any time. The second category is AAA and A-
1+ rated Australian residential mortgage backed securities 
that meet certain minimum requirements; and 

  Offshore  branches  and  subsidiaries  adhere  to  liquidity 
policies and hold appropriate foreign currency liquid assets 
as required. All securities are eligible for repurchase by the 
relevant local central bank at any time. 

The Group‟s key liquidity tools include: 

 

 

 

 

A  liquidity  management  model  similar  to  a  “cash  flow 
ladder” or “maturity gap analysis”, that allows forecasting of 
liquidity needs on a daily basis; 
An additional liquidity management model that implements 
the  agreed  prudential  liquidity  policies.  This  model  is 
calibrated  with  a  series  of  “worst  case”  liquidity  crisis 
scenarios,  incorporating  both  systemic  and  “name”  crisis 
assumptions, such that the Group will have sufficient liquid 
assets available to ensure it meets all of its obligations as 
and when they fall due; 
The  RBA‟s  repurchase  agreement  facilities  provide  the 
Group with the ability to borrow funds on a secured basis, 
even when normal funding markets are unavailable; and 
The  Group‟s  various  short  term  funding  programmes  are 
supplemented  by 
Interbank  Deposit  Agreement 
between the four major Australian banks. This agreement 
is similar to a standby liquidity facility that allows the Group 
to access funding in various crisis circumstances. 

the 

The Group‟s key funding tools include: 

 

 

 

international  and  domestic 

Its consumer retail funding base includes a wide range of 
retail  transaction  accounts,  investment  accounts,  term 
deposits  and  retirement  style  accounts  for  individual 
consumers; 
Its small business customer and institutional deposit base; 
and 
Its  wholesale 
funding 
programmes which include it‟s Australian dollar Negotiable 
Certificates  of  Deposit;  Australian  dollar  bank  bills;  Asian 
Transferable  Certificates 
programme; 
Australian, U.S. and Euro Commercial Paper programmes; 
Bankwest  Euro  Commercial  Paper  programme;  U.S. 
Extendible Notes programmes; Australian dollar Domestic 
Debt  Programme;  U.S.  Medium  Term  Note  Programme; 
Euro  Medium  Term  Note  Programme,  Covered  Bond 
Programmes  and  its  Medallion  and  Swan  securitisation 
programmes. 

of  Deposit 

 At  30  June  2012  virtually  all  of  the  Group‟s  Australian  dollar 
liquid assets qualified for repurchase by the RBA at any time. 

 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 40 Liquidity and Funding Risk (continued) 

Recent Market Environment 

The cost of wholesale and domestic deposit funding remains high. The Group has managed its debt portfolio to avoid concentrations 
such as dependence on single sources of funding, by type or by investor, and has continued to maintain a diversified funding base and 
significant funding capacity in the domestic and global unsecured and secured debt markets. 

The final impact of new liquidity and funding regulations on the Group is still uncertain though it is likely that they will require increased 
long term debt issuance and higher holdings of liquid assets. The Group continues to monitor developments in this area and will update 
its liquidity and funding policies as appropriate. 

Details of the Group‟s regulatory capital position and capital management activities are disclosed in the Capital Management section of 
the Annual Report and Note 30. 

Maturity Analysis of Monetary Liabilities 

Amounts shown in the tables below are based on contractual undiscounted cash flows for the remaining contractual maturities. 

(1) Includes deposits that are contractually at call customer savings and cheque accounts. Historical experience is that such accounts provide a stable source of long 

term funding for the Group. 

(2) For non-trading derivative liabilities gross payable amounts on cross currency swaps have been reported. The Group has corresponding receivables on these cross 
currency swaps that have not been reported, in accordance with the requirements on AASB 7 „Financial Instruments: Disclosures‟. The terms of the cross currency 
swap agreements entered into by the Group allow for net settlement in the event of certain specific circumstances including default on the counterparties. All other 
non-trading derivatives have been reported net, in line with remaining contractual maturities. 

(3) Derivatives held for trading are included in the 0 to 3 months maturity band. 

(4) All off balance sheet items are included in the 0 to 3 month maturity band to reflect their earliest possible maturity. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

199 

Group Maturity Period as at 30 June 2012 0 to 3 3 to 12 1 to 5 Over 5 Not At Call months months years years Specified Total $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Monetary liabilitiesDeposits and other public borrowings (1)199,783160,95764,67016,253526-442,189Payables due to other financial institutions4,07517,072673366--22,186Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement-2,6381,3581,974621-6,591Derivative liabilities (2) (3)-30,7118,56828,36515,412-83,056Bank acceptances-9,7161---9,717Insurance policy liabilities-----12,99412,994Debt issues and loan capital-25,93530,49566,13333,527-156,090Managed funds units on issue-----995995Other monetary liabilities9802,8832,047442-1516,503Total monetary liabilities204,838249,912107,812113,53350,08614,140740,321Guarantees (4)-5,358----5,358Loan commitments (4)-127,833----127,833Other commitments (4)-5,757----5,757Total off balance sheet items-138,948----138,948Total monetary liabilities and off balance sheet items204,838388,860107,812113,53350,08614,140879,269 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 40 Liquidity and Funding Risk (continued) 

(1) Includes deposits that are contractually at call customer savings and cheque accounts. Historical experience is that such accounts provide a stable source of long 

term funding for the Group. 

(2) For non-trading derivative liabilities gross payable amounts on cross currency swaps have been reported. The Group has corresponding receivables on these cross 
currency swaps that have not been reported, in accordance with the requirements on AASB 7 „Financial Instruments: Disclosures‟. The terms of the cross currency 
swap agreements entered into by the Group allow for net settlement in the event of certain specific circumstances including default on the counterparties. All other 
non-trading derivatives have been reported net, in line with remaining contractual maturities. 

(3) Derivatives held for trading are included in the 0 to 3 months maturity band. 

(4) Certain comparative information has been restated to conform to presentation in the current period. 

(5) All off balance sheet items are included in the 0 to 3 month maturity band to reflect their earliest possible maturity. 

Amounts shown in the tables below are based on contractual undiscounted cash flows for the remaining contractual maturities. 

 (1) Includes deposits that are contractually at call customer savings and cheque accounts. Historical experience is that such accounts provide a stable source of long 

term funding for the Bank. 

(2) For non-trading derivative liabilities gross payable amounts on cross currency swaps have been reported. The Group has corresponding receivables on these cross 
currency swaps that have not been reported, in accordance with the requirements on AASB 7 „Financial Instruments: Disclosures‟. The terms of the cross currency 
swap agreements entered into by the Group allow for net settlement in the event of certain specific circumstances including default on the counterparties. All other 
non-trading derivatives have been reported net, in line with remaining contractual maturities. 

(3) Derivatives held for trading are included in the 0 to 3 months maturity band. 

(4) All off balance sheet items are included in the 0 to 3 month maturity band to reflect their earliest possible maturity. 

200 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group Maturity Period as at 30 June 2011 0 to 3 3 to 12 1 to 5 Over 5 Not At Call months months years years Specified Total $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Monetary liabilitiesDeposits and other public borrowings (1)190,378128,15970,57716,821525-406,460Payables due to other financial institutions2,65013,0382411--15,930Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement-5,4981,0323,0441,023-10,597Derivative liabilities (2) (3) (4)-29,9765,91823,87912,815-72,588Bank acceptances-10,632102---10,734Insurance policy liabilities-----13,65213,652Debt issues and loan capital-28,84127,68863,44635,695-155,670Managed funds units on issue-----1,0481,048Other monetary liabilities954,6171,997371-2847,364Total monetary liabilities193,123220,761107,555107,56250,05814,984694,043Guarantees (5)-4,462----4,462Loan commitments (5)-126,334----126,334Other commitments (5)-5,338----5,338Total off balance sheet items-136,134----136,134Total monetary liabilities and off balance sheet items193,123356,895107,555107,56250,05814,984830,177Bank  Maturity Period as at 30 June 2012 0 to 3  3 to 12  1 to 5  Over 5  Not  At Call  months  months  years  years  Specified  Total  $M  $M  $M  $M  $M  $M  $M  Monetary liabilitiesDeposits and other public borrowings (1)166,386131,96752,93314,928526-366,740Payables due to other financial institutions3,79717,0206511--21,469Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement-3961481,867894-3,305Derivative liabilities (2) (3)-30,7667,40027,54414,078-79,788Bank acceptances-9,715----9,715Debt issues and loan capital-19,05925,94554,79330,230-130,027Due to controlled entities3,2743,8564,32014,48175,122-101,053Other monetary liabilities8291,9134,56279-67,389Total monetary liabilities174,286214,69295,959113,693120,8506719,486Guarantees (4)-4,718----4,718Loan commitments (4)-109,648----109,648Other commitments (4)-4,279----4,279Total off balance sheet items-118,645----118,645Total monetary liabilities and off balance sheet items174,286333,33795,959113,693120,8506838,131 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 40 Liquidity and Funding Risk (continued) 

 (1) Includes deposits that are contractually at call customer savings and cheque accounts. Historical experience is that such accounts provide a stable source of long 

term funding for the Bank.  

(2) For non-trading derivative liabilities gross payable amounts on cross currency swaps have been reported. The Group has corresponding receivables on these cross 
currency swaps that have not been reported, in accordance with the requirements on AASB 7 „Financial Instruments: Disclosures‟. The terms of the cross currency 
swap agreements entered into by the Group allow for net settlement in the event of certain specific circumstances including default on the counterparties. All other 
non-trading derivatives have been reported net, in line with remaining contractual maturities. 

(3) Derivatives held for trading are included in the 0 to 3 months maturity band. 

(4) Certain comparative information has been restated to conform to presentation in the current period. 

(5) All off balance sheet items are included in the 0 to 3 month maturity band to reflect their earliest possible maturity. 

Note 41 Retirement Benefit Obligations 

Name of Plan 

Commonwealth Bank Group Super 
(formerly known as Officers‟ 
Superannuation Fund) 
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (UK) 
Staff Benefits Scheme (CBA (UK) SBS) 

Type 
Defined Benefits (1) and  
Accumulation  

Defined Benefits (1) and  
Accumulation 

Form of Benefit 

Indexed pension and  
lump sum 

Indexed pension and  
lump sum 

Date of Last Actuarial 
Assessment of the Fund 
30 June 2009 (2) 

30 June 2010 

 (1) The defined benefit formulae are generally comprised of final superannuation salary, or final average superannuation salary, and service. 
(2) An actuarial assessment of the Fund at 30 June 2012 is currently in progress. 

Contributions 

Entities of the Group contribute to the plans listed in the above table in accordance with the Trust Deeds following the receipt of actuarial 
advice. 

With the exception of contributions corresponding to salary sacrifice benefits, the Bank ceased contributions to Commonwealth Bank 
Group  Super  from  8  July  1994.  Further,  the  Bank  ceased  contributions  to  the  Commonwealth  Bank  Group  Super  relating  to  salary 
sacrifice benefits from 1 July 1997. 

The Bank will continue to monitor the need to make contributions to Commonwealth Bank Group Super including the advice provided in 
the actuarial assessment of Commonwealth Bank Group Super as at 30 June 2012. 

An actuarial assessment of the CBA (UK) SBS, as at 30 June 2010, confirmed a deficit of GBP 68 million ($105 million at the 30 June 
2012 exchange rate). Following this assessment, the Bank agreed to contribute at the fund actuary‟s recommended contribution rates. 
These rates included amounts to finance future accruals of defined benefits estimated at $4 million per annum (at the 30 June 2012 
exchange rate) and additional contributions of GBP 15 million per annum ($23 million per annum at the 30 June 2012 exchange rate) 
payable over five years to finance the fund deficit. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

201 

Bank Maturity Period as at 30 June 20110 to 3 3 to 12 1 to 5 Over 5 Not At Call months months years years Specified Total $M $M $M $M $M $M $M Monetary liabilitiesDeposits and other public borrowings (1)161,863103,33556,77415,042543-337,557Payables due to other financial institutions2,45313,0212411--15,716Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement-2803532,9221,416-4,971Derivative liabilities (2) (3) (4)-28,0972,94523,03412,650-66,726Bank acceptances-10,632102---10,734Debt issues and loan capital-21,89021,51751,36432,350-127,121Due to controlled entities2,9382,8342,0346,15638,392-52,354Other monetary liabilities623,5313,40171-27,067Total monetary liabilities167,316183,62087,36798,59085,3512622,246Guarantees (5)-3,719----3,719Loan commitments (5)-110,009----110,009Other commitments (5)-4,466----4,466Total off balance sheet items-118,194----118,194Total monetary liabilities and off balance sheet items167,316301,81487,36798,59085,3512740,440 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 41 Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued) 

Defined Benefit Superannuation Plans 
The amounts reported in the Balance Sheet are reconciled as follows: 

202 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

CBA(UK)SBS Total 201220112012201120122011$M $M $M $M $M $M Present value of funded obligations(3,716)(3,493)(420)(356)(4,136)(3,849)Fair value of plan assets3,3603,5693122733,6723,842Total pension (liabilities)/assets as at 30 June(356)76(108)(83)(464)(7)Amounts in the Balance Sheet:Liabilities (Note 24)(356)-(108)(83)(464)(83)Assets (Note 17)-76---76Net (liabilities)/assets(356)76(108)(83)(464)(7)The amounts recognised in the Income Statement are as follows:Current service cost(61)(53)(5)(2)(66)(55)Interest cost(167)(158)(19)(13)(186)(171)Expected return on plan assets2592621617275279Employer financed benefits within accumulation division(191)(190)--(191)(190)Total included in defined benefit superannuation plan expense(160)(139)(8)2(168)(137)Actual return on plan assets2003382030220368Changes in the present value of the defined benefit obligation are as follows:Opening defined benefit obligation(3,493)(3,332)(356)(377)(3,849)(3,709)Current service cost(55)(46)(5)(2)(60)(48)Interest cost(167)(158)(19)(13)(186)(171)Member contributions(9)(10)--(9)(10)Actuarial losses(213)(177)(45)(31)(258)(208)Benefits paid2212301412235242Exchange differences on foreign plans--(9)55(9)55Closing defined benefits obligation(3,716)(3,493)(420)(356)(4,136)(3,849)Changes in the fair value of plan assets are as follows:Opening fair value of plan assets3,5693,6482732953,8423,943Expected return2592621617275279Experience gains(59)76413(55)89Total contributions9102673517Exchange differences on foreign plans--7(47)7(47)Benefits and expenses paid(227)(237)(14)(12)(241)(249)Employer financed benefits within accumulation division(191)(190)--(191)(190)Closing fair value of plan assets3,3603,5693122733,6723,842Commonwealth Bank Group Super 20122011201020092008$M $M $M $M $M Present value of funded obligations(3,716)(3,493)(3,332)(3,118)(2,892)Fair value of plan assets3,3603,5693,6483,6134,428Total assets(356)763164951,536Experience adjustments on plan liabilities3(6)77(120)134Experience adjustments on plan assets(59)76115(829)(520)Losses from changes in actuarial assumptions(216)(171)(276)(84)92Total net actuarial losses(272)(101)(84)(1,033)(294)Commonwealth Bank Group Super 
 
 
 
  
 
Note 41 Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued) 

Notes to the Financial Statements 

 Actuarial gains and losses represent experience adjustments on plan assets and liabilities as well as adjustments arising from changes 
in actuarial assumptions. Total net actuarial losses recognised in equity from commencement of IFRS (1 July 2005) to 30 June 2012 
were $630 million (2011: $317 million). 

 (1) For Commonwealth Bank Group Super, the 2012 salary increase assumption is a combined promotional and general increase assumption. For 2011 results, there 

was a separate promotional assumption of around 1.6% per annum. 

The return on asset assumption is determined as the weighted average of the long term expected returns of each asset class where the 
weighting is the benchmark asset allocations of the assets backing the defined benefit risks. The long term expected returns of each 
asset class are determined following receipt of actuarial advice. 

Up to and including 30 June 2011, the discount rate (gross of tax) assumption for Commonwealth Bank Group Super was based on the 
yield on 10 year Australian Commonwealth Government securities. Accounting requirements on the government bond rate to discount 
defined  benefit  superannuation  liabilities  is  now  interpreted  to  include  both  Commonwealth  and  State  government  securities.  The 
Group‟s policy, outlined in note 1, is to select the most appropriate rate, to better match the duration of the selected security to the 
average duration of the liabilities. In addition to financial assumptions, the mortality assumptions for pensioners can materially impact 
the defined benefit obligations. These assumptions are age related and allowances are made for future improvement in mortality. The 
expected life expectancies for pensioners are set out below: 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

203 

20122011201020092008$M $M $M $M $M Present value of funded obligations(420)(356)(377)(394)(386)Fair value of plan assets312273295308321Total liabilities(108)(83)(82)(86)(65)Experience adjustments on plan liabilities(2)(14)1926Experience adjustments on plan assets41318(26)(21)(Losses)/Gains from changes in actuarial assumptions(43)(17)(44)-(32)Total net actuarial losses(41)(18)(7)(24)(47)CBA(UK)SBS 20122011201020092008$M $M $M $M $M Present value of funded obligations(4,136)(3,849)(3,709)(3,512)(3,278)Fair value of plan assets3,6723,8423,9433,9214,749Total (liabilities)/assets(464)(7)2344091,471Experience adjustments on plan liabilities1(20)96(118)140Experience adjustments on plan assets(55)89133(855)(541)(Losses)/gains from changes in actuarial assumptions(259)(188)(320)(84)60Total net actuarial losses(313)(119)(91)(1,057)(341)Total CBA(UK)SBS  2012201120122011Economic assumptions% % % % The above calculations were based on the following assumptions:Discount rate at 30 June (gross of tax)4.005.204.405.40Expected return on plan assets at 30 June6.107.704.405.60Expected rate salary increases at 30 June (per annum) (1)3.504.404.104.80Commonwealth Bank Group SuperCBA(UK)SBS 2012201120122011Expected life expectancies for pensionersYears Years Years Years Male pensioners currently aged 6029.229.029.128.9Male pensioners currently aged 6524.324.224.224.1Female pensioners currently aged 6034.334.231.631.5Female pensioners currently aged 6529.229.026.626.5Commonwealth Bank Group Super 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 41 Retirement Benefit Obligations (continued) 

Further,  the  proportion  of  the  retiring  members  of  the  main  Commonwealth  Bank  Group  Super  defined  benefit  division  electing  to  take 
pensions instead of lump sums may materially impact the defined benefit obligations. Of these retiring members, 34% were assumed to 
take  pension  benefits,  increasing  to  50%  by  2020.  Australian  and  UK  legislation  requires  that  superannuation  (pension)  benefits  be 
provided through trusts. These trusts (including their investments) are managed by trustees who are legally independent of the employer. 
As at 30 June 2012, the actual asset allocations for the assets backing the defined benefit portion of Commonwealth Bank Group Super are 
as follows: 

(1) These are assets which are not included in the traditional asset classes of equities, fixed interest securities, real estate and cash. They include infrastructure investments 

as well as high yield and emerging market debt. 

The value of Commonwealth Bank Group Super‟s equity holding in the Group as at 30 June 2012 was $113 million (2011: $102 million). 
Amounts on deposit with the Bank at 30 June 2012 totalled $21 million (2011: $30 million). Other financial instruments with the Group at 30 
June 2012 totalled $46 million (2011: $63 million). 

Note 42 Investments in Associated Entities and Joint Ventures 

 (1) The value for CFS Retail Property Trust based on published quoted prices was $427 million as at 30 June 2012 (2011: $400 million). 
(2) The value for Commonwealth Property Office Fund based on published quoted prices was $152 million as at 30 June 2012 (2011: $133 million). 

(3) The consolidated entity has significant influence due to its relationship as Responsible Entity. 

(4) The value for Countplus Limited based on published quoted prices was $52 million as at 30 June 2012. This investment was purchased during the year. 

(5) Formerly known as CIPL SA Schools Pty Limited. This investment was sold during the year. 

204 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Actual Allocation  Asset allocations%  Australian equities21.3Overseas equities10.9Real estate14.2Fixed interest securities34.8Cash4.3Other (1)14.5Group  2012201120122011OwnershipOwnershipPrincipalCountry ofBalance$M$MInterest %Interest % ActivitiesIncorporationDateAcadian Asset Management (Australia) Limited225050Investment ManagementAustralia30-JunAegis Correctional Partnership Trust-15050Investment VehicleAustralia30-JunAspire Schools Holdings (Qld) Pty Limited665050Investment VehicleAustralia30-JunAussie Home Loans Pty Limited71713333Mortgage BrokingAustralia30-JunBank of Hangzhou Co., Ltd. 5384582020Commercial BankingChina31-DecBoCommLife Insurance Company Limited24273838Life InsuranceChina31-DecCardlink Services Limited12202525Transaction ServicesAustralia30-JunCFS Retail Property Trust (1) (3)43943988Funds ManagementAustralia30-JunCommonwealth Property Office Fund (2) (3)14713966Funds ManagementAustralia30-JunCountplus Limited (4)56-37-Financial AdviceAustralia30-JunEquigroup Pty Limited18155050LeasingAustralia30-JunFirst State Cinda Fund Management Company Limited13154646Funds ManagementChina31-DecFirst State European Diversified Investment Fund1391393030Funds ManagementLuxembourg31-DecInternational Private Equity Real Estate Fund333333Funds ManagementAustralia30-JunPinnacle Education SA Holding Company Pty Limited (5)-6-50Investment VehicleAustralia30-JunQilu Bank Co., Ltd.2132132020Commercial BankingChina31-DecVietnam International Commercial Joint Stock Bank2171582015Financial ServicesVietnam31-DecCarrying amount of investments in associated entities and joint ventures1,8981,712 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 42 Investments in Associated Entities and Joint Ventures (continued) 

Note 43 Key Management Personnel 

The company has applied the exemption under AASB 124 „Related Party Disclosures‟ which exempts listed companies from providing 
remuneration disclosures in relation to their key management personnel in their Financial Statements. These remuneration disclosures 
are provided in the Remuneration Report of the Directors‟ Report on pages 69 to 88 and have been audited. 

Equity Holdings of Key Management Personnel 

Shareholdings 

Details  of  the  shareholdings  of  Key  Management  Personnel  (or  close  family  members  or  entities  controlled,  jointly  controlled,  or 
significantly influenced by them, or any entity over which any of the aforementioned hold significant voting power) are set out below. For 
details of Director and Executive equity plans refer to Note 28. 

 Shares held by directors 

All shares were acquired by Directors on normal terms and conditions or through the Non-Executive Director‟s Share Plan. 

(1) Non-Executive Directors who hold less that 5,000 Commonwealth Bank shares are required to receive 20% of their total post-tax annual fees as Commonwealth 

Bank shares. These shares are subject to a 10 year trading restriction (the shares will be released earlier if the director leaves the Board). 

(2) "Net Change Other" incorporates changes resulting from purchases and sales during the year. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

205 

Group20122011Share of Associates' and Joint Ventures profits/(losses)$M $M Operating profits before income tax164164Income tax expense(24)(23)Operating profits after income tax140141Group20122011Financial information of Associates and Joint Ventures$M$MAssets76,84466,886Liabilities63,48154,299Revenue3,9763,722Operating profits after income tax1,3261,304GroupBank2012201120122011Key management personnel compensation$'000$'000$'000$'000Short term benefits32,68332,49432,68332,494Post-employment benefits748752748752Share-based payments20,5169,93120,5169,931Long term benefits1,2414631,241463Total55,18843,64055,18843,640BalanceSharesNet ChangeBalanceDirectorsClass1 July 2011Acquired (1)Other (2)30 June 2012David TurnerOrdinary 10,998842-11,840John AndersonOrdinary 16,4731,199-17,672Colin GalbraithOrdinary 16,435301-16,736Jane HemstritchOrdinary 25,458317-25,775Launa InmanOrdinary 1,298400-1,698Carolyn KayOrdinary 12,071317-12,388Brian LongOrdinary 10,70129011811,109Andrew MohlOrdinary 10,35029042,00052,640Fergus RyanOrdinary 18,546317-18,863Harrison Young Ordinary26,446318-26,764 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 43 Key Management Personnel (continued) 

Shares held by the CEO and Group Executives 

(1)  Reward  Shares/Rights  represent  shares  granted  under  the  Group  Leadership  Reward  Plan  (GLRP)  which  are  subject  to  performance  hurdles.  Deferred Shares 

represent the deferred portion of STI received as shares restricted for three years. 

(2) Reward shares/rights and Deferred shares become ordinary shares upon vesting. 

(3) "Net Change Other" incorporates changes resulting from purchases, sales and forfeitures during the year. 

206 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Reward/Acquired/OnDeferredBalanceGranted asExercise ofSharesNet ChangeBalanceClass (1)1 July 2011RemunerationOptionsVested (2)Other (3)30 June 2012Managing Director and CEOIan NarevOrdinary 7,747---13,52921,276Reward Shares/Rights 83,64581,620---165,265Deferred Shares 11,674--(5,976)-5,698Group ExecutivesSimon BlairOrdinary ------Reward Shares/Rights 52,23624,854---77,090Deferred Shares - ----- David Cohen Ordinary 37,881---11,85649,737Reward Shares/Rights 80,95026,950---107,900Deferred Shares 7,597----7,597David Craig Ordinary 62,656---25,12487,780Reward Shares/Rights 109,89241,322---151,214Deferred Shares 19,548--(11,951)-7,597Michael Harte Ordinary 38,418---22,21460,632Reward Shares/Rights 94,70232,190---126,892Deferred Shares 17,955--(10,358)-7,597Melanie LaingOrdinary ------Reward Shares/Rights -23,954---23,954Deferred Shares -10,961---10,961Ross McEwan Ordinary 9,429---(9,429)-Reward Shares/Rights 117,52038,927---156,447Deferred Shares 20,81450,886-(11,951)-59,749Grahame PetersenOrdinary 51,100---29,02680,126Reward Shares/Rights 107,84135,184---143,025Deferred Shares 15,096--(8,765)-6,331Ian Saines Ordinary 928---22,73123,659Reward Shares/Rights 126,64739,824---166,471Deferred Shares 21,540--(13,943)-7,597Annabel SpringOrdinary ----1,0241,024Reward Shares/Rights -29,342---29,342Deferred Shares 10,6197,563---18,182Alden Toevs Ordinary 46,784----46,784Reward Shares/Rights 135,49942,819---178,318Deferred Shares 10,130----10,130Former ExecutiveRalph NorrisOrdinary 243,679---95,406339,085Reward Shares/Rights 290,602----290,602Deferred Shares 39,167--(39,167)-- 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 43 Key Management Personnel (continued) 

Loans to Key Management Personnel 

All loans to Key Management Personnel (or close family members or entities controlled, jointly controlled, or significantly influenced by 
them,  or  any  entity  over  which  any  of  the  aforementioned  held  significant  voting  power)  have  been  provided  on  an  arm‟s  length 
commercial basis including the term of the loan, security required and the interest rate (which may be fixed or variable). 

Total Loans to Key Management Personnel 

Loans to Key Management Personnel Exceeding $100,000 in Aggregate 

(1) Some loans for Mr McEwan and Mr Narev are held in New Zealand Dollars and converted to Australian Dollars for the purpose of this disclosure. The exchange rate 
at 30 June 2011 has been used for the opening balances, and the exchange rate at 30 June 2012 has been used for calculating interest charged, closing balances 
and highest balance in period. 

(2) Represents the highest balance of loans outstanding at any period during the year ended 30 June 2012. 

Other Transactions of Key Management Personnel  

Financial Instrument Transactions 

Financial instrument transactions (other than loans and shares disclosed within this report) of Key Management Personnel occur in the 
ordinary course of business on an arm‟s length basis. 

Disclosure  of  financial  instrument  transactions  regularly  made  as  part  of  normal  banking  operations  is  limited  to  disclosure  of  such 
transactions with Key Management Personnel and entities controlled or significantly influenced by them. 

All such financial instrument transactions that have occurred between entities within the Group and their Key Management Personnel 
have been trivial or domestic in nature and were in the nature of normal personal banking and deposit transactions. 

Transactions other than Financial Instrument Transactions of Banks 

All other transactions with Key Management Personnel and their related entities and other related parties  are conducted on an arm‟s 
length  basis  in  the  normal  course  of  business  and  on  commercial  terms  and  conditions.  These  transactions  principally  involve  the 
provision of financial and investment services by entities not controlled by the Group. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

207 

OpeningInterestClosingBalanceChargedBalanceNumber in$'000$'000$'000GroupDirectors  20125696220115-51CEO & Group Executives  20127,1534567,1371220119,3245387,15311Total  20127,1584627,2331420119,3295387,15812HighestBalanceInterestInterest NotBalanceBalance1 July 2011ChargedChargedWrite-off30 June 2012in Period$'000$'000$'000$'000$'000$'000 (2)Managing Director and CEOIan Narev (1)1811--182Group ExecutivesSimon Blair66820--4001,168David Cohen59640--585596Michael Harte3,302308--4,3754,712Melanie Laing-39--3251,171Ross McEwan (1)57343--1,4243,010Ian Saines3104---310Total  5,630455--7,10911,149 
 
 
  
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 44 Related Party Disclosures 

The Group is controlled by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, the ultimate parent, which is incorporated in Australia.  

Parties are considered to be related if one party has the ability to control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other 
party in making financial or operational decisions, or one other party controls both. The definition includes subsidiaries, associates, joint 
ventures, pension plans as well as other persons. 

A  number  of  banking  transactions  are  entered  into  with  related  parties  in  the  normal  course  of  business  on  an  arm‟s  length  basis.  
These include loans, deposits and foreign currency transactions, upon which some fees and commissions may be earned.  Details of 
amounts paid or received from related parties, in the form of dividends or interest, are set out in Note 2. 

The  Bank‟s  aggregate  investments  in,  and  loans  to  controlled  entities  are  disclosed  in  the  table  below.  Amounts  due  to  controlled 
entities are disclosed in the Balance Sheet of the Bank. 

The Group also receives fees on an arm‟s length basis of $74 million (2011: $68 million) from funds classified as associates.  

The  Bank  provides  letters  of  comfort  to  other  entities  within  the  Group  on  standard  terms.  Guarantees  include  a  $5  million  bank 
guarantee provided to Colonial First State Investments Limited and a $25 million guarantee to AFS license holders in respect of excess 
insurance claims. 

The Bank is the head entity of the tax consolidated group and has entered into tax funding and tax sharing agreements with its eligible 
Australian resident subsidiaries. The terms and conditions of these agreements are set out in note 1(x). The amount receivable by the 
Bank  under  the  tax  funding  agreement  with  the  tax  consolidated  entities  is  $261  million  as  at  30  June  2012  (2011:  $281  million 
receivable). This balance is included in „Other assets‟ in the Bank‟s separate balance sheet.  
All transactions between Group entities are eliminated on consolidation. 

Note 45 Notes to the Statements of Cash Flows 

(a) Reconciliation of Net Profit after Income Tax to Net Cash provided by/(used in) Operating Activities 

(1) Comparative information has been restated to conform with presentation in the current period. 

208 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Bank 20122011$M $M Shares in controlled entities20,02518,903Loans to controlled entities51,50128,454Total shares in and loans to controlled entities71,52647,357GroupBank20122011201020122011$M $M $M $M $M Net profit after income tax7,1066,4105,6806,4616,480Decrease/(increase) in interest receivable79(224)(551)(318)(287)(Decrease)/increase in interest payable(320)476889(240)465Net decrease in assets at fair value through Income Statement (excluding life insurance)3,3912,6973,3012,9431,202Net (gain)/loss on sale of controlled entities and associates(21)(7)3210(6)Net gain on sale of investments(1)(1)(4)(1)(1)Net (increase)/decrease in derivative assets/liabilities (1)(663)(79)(11,394)394(384)Net (gain)/loss on sale of property, plant and equipment (39)64(40)6Equity accounting profit(120)(141)(116)--Loan impairment expense1,0891,2802,3799941,080Depreciation and amortisation (including asset write downs)628613618398387(Decrease)/increase in liabilities at fair value through Income Statement (excluding life insurance)(4,321)(4,851)(1,254)(1,424)87(Decrease)/increase in other provisions (69)8046(71)23Increase/(decrease)in income taxes payable37105(150)167117Increase/(decrease) in deferred tax liabilities1528053116(1)Decrease/(increase) in deferred tax assets 349(30)383173131Decrease/(increase) in accrued fees/reimbursements receivable18(1)443837Increase/(decrease) in accrued fees and other items payable64(99)302(6)(128)(Decrease)/increase in life insurance contract policy liabilities(1,157)835853--(Decrease)/increase in cash flow hedge reserve(58)15589(55)(98)(Decrease)/increase in fair value on hedged items(318)(427)838(702)(410)Dividend received---(1,573)(2,210)Changes in operating assets and liabilities arising from cash flow movements(8,611)10,590(29,592)(38,690)7,597Other(99)(158)122(76)34Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities(2,884)17,169(26,928)(31,502)14,121 
 
  
 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 45 Notes to the Statements of Cash Flows (continued) 

(b) Reconciliation of Cash 

For  the  purposes  of  the  Statements  of  Cash  Flows,  cash  includes  cash,  money  at  short  call,  at  call  deposits  with  other  financial 
institutions and settlement account balances with other banks.  

(1) At call includes certain receivables and payables due from and to financial institutions within three months. 

(c) Disposal of Controlled Entities – Fair Value of asset disposal 

The Group disposed of certain St Andrew‟s operations effective 1 July 2010. During the year ended 30 June 2010, the Group disposed 
of its banking and insurance operations in Fiji. 

(d) Non-cash Financing and Investing Activities 

 (1) The dividend reinvestment plan in respect of the final dividend for 2009/10 was satisfied in full by an on market purchase and transfer of $679 million of shares to 

participating shareholders. 

(e) Acquisition of controlled entities 

The Group gained control of Count Financial Limited (Count Financial) on 29 November 2011. The Group subsequently acquired 100% 
of the issued share capital on 9 December 2011. Count Financial is an independent, accountant-based financial advice business. This 
acquisition will support the Group in growing its distribution capabilities through the expansion of its adviser network. 

The fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date are as follows: 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

209 

GroupBank 20122011201020122011$M $M $M $M $M Notes, coins and cash at banks8,5085,4245,2857,1614,103Other short term liquid assets4,0951,3011,1533,784977Receivables due from other financial institutions – at call (1)10,5977,2615,01210,4176,664Payables due to other financial institutions – at call (1)(21,125)(6,058)(6,533)(20,801)(5,853)Cash and cash equivalents at end of year2,0757,9284,9175615,891Group201220112010$M$M$MNet Assets-6077(Loss)/gain on sale (excluding realised foreign exchange losses and other related costs)-(10)1Cash consideration received-5078Less cash and cash equivalents disposed-(31)(89)Net cash inflow/(outflow) on disposal-19(11)Group201220112010$M$M$MShares issued under the Dividend Reinvestment Plan (1)1,3635111,457Group201220112010$M$M$MNet identifiable assets at fair value140--Add: Goodwill232--Purchase consideration transferred372--Less: Cash and cash equivalents acquired(10)--362--Less: Non-cash consideration(237)--Net cash outflow on acquisition125-- 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 46 Disclosures about Fair Values of Financial Instruments 

Financial  assets  and financial liabilities  are measured  on  an ongoing basis  either  at fair  value  or  amortised cost. AASB  7  „Financial 
Instruments: Disclosures‟ requires the disclosure of the fair value of those financial instruments not already carried at fair value in the 
balance sheet. 

The  fair  value  of  a  financial  instrument  is  the  amount  for  which  an  asset  could  be  exchanged,  or  a  liability  settled,  between 
knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm's length transaction. 

(a) Comparison of Fair Values and Carrying Values 

The following tables summarise the carrying and fair values of financial assets and liabilities presented on the Group‟s and the Bank‟s 
balance  sheets.  The  disclosure  does  not  cover  assets  or  liabilities  that  are  not  considered  to  be  financial  instruments  from  an 
accounting perspective. 

210 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group 20122011Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Value Value Value Value $M $M $M $M AssetsCash and liquid assets19,66619,66613,24113,241Receivables due from other financial institutions10,88610,88610,39310,393Assets at fair value through Income Statement:   Trading13,81613,81620,46920,469   Insurance14,52514,52514,99814,998   Other980980824824Derivative assets38,93738,93730,31730,317Available-for-sale investments60,82760,82745,17145,171Loans, bills discounted and other receivables525,682526,039500,057500,544Bank acceptances of customers9,7179,71710,73410,734Other assets7,9627,9627,0597,059LiabilitiesDeposits and other public borrowings437,655439,418401,147401,979Payables due to other financial institutions22,12622,12615,89915,899Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement6,5556,55510,49110,491Derivative liabilities39,22139,22133,97633,976Bank acceptances9,7179,71710,73410,734Insurance policy liabilities12,99412,99413,65213,652Debt issues124,712125,818118,652120,752Managed funds units on issue9959951,0481,048Bills payable and other liabilities7,2317,2318,9838,983Loan capital10,02210,38711,56112,105 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 46 Disclosures about Fair Values of Financial Instruments (continued) 

The fair values disclosed above represent estimates at which these instruments could be exchanged in a current transaction between 
willing parties. However, many of the instruments lack an available trading market and it is the intention to hold to maturity. Thus it is 
possible that realised amounts may differ to amounts disclosed above. 

Due to the wide range of valuation techniques and the numerous estimates that must be made, it may be difficult to make a reasonable 
comparison of the fair value information disclosed here, against that disclosed by other financial institutions. 

For financial instruments not carried at fair value, an estimate of fair value has been derived as follows: 

Loans, Bills Discounted and Other Receivables 

The carrying value of loans, bills discounted and other receivables is net of accumulated collective and individually assessed provisions 
for impairment. Customer creditworthiness is regularly reviewed in line with the Group's credit policies and where necessary, pricing is 
adjusted in accordance with individual credit contracts. 

For the majority of variable rate loans, excluding impaired loans, the carrying amount is considered a reasonable estimate of fair value. 
For Institutional variable rate loans the fair value is calculated using discounted cash flow models with a discount rate reflecting market 
rates offered on similar loans to customers with similar creditworthiness. The fair value of impaired loans is calculated by discounting 
estimated future cash flows using the loan's original effective interest rate. 

The fair value of fixed rate loans is calculated using discounted cash flow models using a discount rate reflecting market rates offered 
for loans of similar remaining maturities and creditworthiness of the borrower. 

Deposits and Other Public Borrowings 

Fair value of non-interest bearing, call and variable rate deposits, and fixed rate deposits repricing within six months, approximate their 
carrying value as they are short term in nature or payable on demand. 

Fair value of term deposits are estimated using discounted cash flows, applying market rates offered for deposits of similar remaining 
maturities. 

Debt Issues and Loan Capital 

The fair values are calculated using quoted market prices, where available. Where quoted market prices are not available, discounted 
cash flow and option pricing models are used. The discount rate applied reflects the terms of the instrument, the timing of the cash flows 
and is adjusted for any change in the Group's applicable credit rating. 

Other Financial Assets and Liabilities 

For all other financial assets and liabilities fair value approximates carrying value due to their short term nature, frequent repricing or 
high credit rating. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

211 

Bank 20122011Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Value Value Value Value $M $M $M $M AssetsCash and liquid assets17,95217,95210,97910,979Receivables due from other financial institutions10,48210,48210,12310,123Assets at fair value through Income Statement:   Trading12,07112,07117,76517,765   Other980980300300Derivative assets39,06139,06130,73130,731Available-for-sale investments120,047120,04775,69975,699Loans, bills discounted and other receivables407,122407,418387,888388,187Bank acceptances of customers9,7159,71510,73410,734Loans to controlled entities51,50151,60028,45428,988Other assets6,1386,1385,2835,283LiabilitiesDeposits and other public borrowings362,813364,002332,964333,465Payables due to other financial institutions21,45721,45715,68615,686Liabilities at fair value through Income Statement3,1813,1814,7004,700Derivative liabilities39,22639,22632,81732,817Bank acceptances9,7159,71510,73410,734Due to controlled entities101,053101,05352,35352,353Debt issues102,312103,51394,38597,080Bills payable and other liabilities5,2675,2676,6356,635Loan capital10,22310,43511,80812,007 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 46 Disclosures about Fair Values of Financial Instruments (continued) 

(b) Valuation Methodology 

A significant number of financial instruments are carried on balance sheet at fair value. 

The best evidence of fair value is a quoted market price in an active market. Therefore, where possible, fair value is based on quoted 
market prices. Where no quoted market price for an instrument is available, the fair value is based on present value estimates or other 
valuation  techniques  based  on  current  market  conditions.  These  valuation  techniques  rely  on  market  observable  inputs  wherever 
possible, or in a limited number of instances, rely on inputs which are reasonable assumptions based on market conditions. 
The  tables  below  categorise  financial  assets  and  liabilities  that  are  recognised  and  measured  at  fair  value,  and  the  valuation 
methodology according to the following hierarchy.  

Valuation Inputs 

Quoted Prices in Active Markets – Level 1 

Financial instruments, the valuation of which are determined by reference to unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in 
active markets where the quoted price is readily available, and the price represents actual and regularly occurring market transactions 
on an arm‟s length basis.  

An active market is one in which transactions occur with sufficient volume and frequency to provide pricing information on an ongoing 
basis.  

Financial Instruments included in this category are liquid government and financial institution bonds, listed equities and actively traded 
derivatives. 

Valuation Technique Using Observable Inputs – Level 2 

Financial instruments that have been valued using inputs other than quoted prices as described for level 1 but which are observable for 
the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. The valuation techniques include the use of discounted cash flow analysis, option pricing 
models and other market accepted valuation models.  

Financial  instruments  included  in  this  category  are  corporate  bonds,  certificates  of  deposit,  commercial  paper,  mortgaged  backed 
securities and Over-the-Counter (OTC) derivatives including interest rate swaps, cross currency swaps and FX options.  

Valuation Technique Using Significant Unobservable Inputs – Level 3 

Financial instruments, the valuation of which incorporates a significant input for the asset or liability that is not based on observable 
market data (unobservable input). Unobservable inputs are those not readily available in an active market due to market illiquidity or 
complexity of the product. These inputs are generally derived and extrapolated from observable inputs to match the risk profile of the 
financial  instrument,  and  are  calibrated  against  current  market  assumptions,  historic  transactions  and  economic  models,  where 
available. These inputs may include the timing and amount of future cash flows, rates of estimated credit losses, discount rates and 
volatility.  
Financial instruments included in this category are certain exotic OTC derivatives. 

212 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

GroupLevel 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $M AssetsAssets at fair value through Income Statement:Trading9,9843,832-13,81615,7204,6866320,469Insurance4,6029,923-14,5255,0089,990-14,998Other96713-980299525-824Derivative assets1538,8962638,9373630,2404130,317Available-for-sale investments49,03311,793160,82737,1318,039145,171Total assets carried at fair value64,60164,45727129,08558,19453,480105111,779LiabilitiesLiabilities at fair value through Income Statement2,4494,106-6,5554,0966,395-10,491Derivative liabilities539,1991739,221433,964833,976Life investment contracts-9,728-9,728-10,515-10,515Total liabilities carried at fair value2,45453,0331755,5044,10050,874854,982Fair Value as at 30 June 2012Fair Value as at 30 June 2011 
 
 
  
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 46 Disclosures about Fair Values of Financial Instruments (continued) 

(b) Valuation Methodology (continued) 

  (1) Included within available-for-sale investments of the Bank are $66,458 million (2011: $37,444 million) of residential mortgage backed securities issued by Bank 

originated securitisation vehicles for potential repurchase by the Reserve Bank of Australia. 

Level 3 movement analysis for the year ended 30 June 2012 

There have been transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the hierarchy due to the increased or decreased observability of the 
valuation inputs used to price the instruments and the liquidity of the market. 

The  Group  transferred  $57  million  out  of  Level  3  to  Level  2  due  to  increased  observability  of  valuation  inputs.  There  were  no 
transfers into and out of Level 3 for the Bank. The Group‟s exposure to financial instruments measured at fair value based in full or in 
part  on  non-market  observable  inputs  is  restricted  to  a  small  number  of  financial  instruments  which  comprise  an  insignificant 
component of the portfolios to which they belong. As such, the purchases, sales, as well as any change in the assumptions used to 
value  the  instruments  to  a  reasonably  possible  alternative  do  not  have  a  material  effect  on  the  portfolio  balance  of  the  Group‟s 
results. The Bank‟s exposure to financial instruments measured at fair value based in full or part on non-market observable inputs 
consists almost entirely of Group originated and internally issued retail mortgage backed securities (RMBS). These securities have 
been originated for potential repurchase by the Reserve Bank of Australia. The internal RMBS issue was upsized in February 2012 
by  $31,050  million,  with  $29,275  million  classified  as  available-for-sale.  Movements  were  recognised  in  Other  comprehensive 
income of $261 million decrease for the year ended 30 June 2012 (2011: $431 million increase). An increase/decrease of 100 basis 
points in issue margin would decrease/increase the value of the RMBS by $3,218 million/$3,237 million respectively (2011: $2,019 
million/$2,032 million respectively).  

The Level 3 financial instruments recognised a loss in the Group Income Statement of $33 million for the year ended 30 June 2012 
(2011: $11 million gain) and a loss for the Bank of $34 million (2011: $13 million gain). 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

213 

Bank Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total $M $M $M $M $M $M $M $M AssetsAssets at fair value through Income Statement:Trading9,7112,360-12,07114,7632,996617,765Other96713-9802991-300Derivative assets939,0401239,0614230,6602930,731Available-for-sale investments (1)39,09814,49066,459120,04729,4578,79737,44575,699Total assets carried at fair value49,78555,90366,471172,15944,56142,45437,480124,495LiabilitiesLiabilities at fair value through Income Statement2,448733-3,1814,116584-4,700Derivative liabilities539,2041739,226332,806832,817Total liabilities carried at fair value2,45339,9371742,4074,11933,390837,517Fair Value as at 30 June 2012Fair Value as at 30 June 2011 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 47 Securitisation and Covered Bonds 

The  Group  enters into transactions  in the  normal course  of  business by  which it  transfers  financial assets  directly to Special Purpose 
Entities (SPE‟s). These transfers do not give rise to derecogniton of those financial assets for the Group.  

Securitisation programmes 

Residential mortgages securitised under the Group‟s securitisation programmes are sold to bankruptcy remote special purpose entities. 
The  Group  is  entitled  to  any  residual  income  of  the  securitisation  programme  after  all  payments  due  to  investors  have  been  met.  In 
addition, where derivatives have been externalised, the interest rate and foreign currency risk are held in the Group. As the SPE‟s are 
funded by the issue of debt from the SPE on terms whereby the majority of the risks and rewards of the residential mortgages are retained 
by the Group, the SPE‟s are consolidated fully and all of these loans are retained on the Group‟s balance sheet, with the notes issued by 
the SPE included within debt issues of the Group. The investors have full recourse to the residential mortgages segregated into an SPE. 

Covered bonds programmes 

To complement the existing wholesale funding sources, the Group has established two global covered bond programmes during the year, 
for CBA and ASB respectively. Certain residential mortgages have been assigned to a bankruptcy remote SPE associated with covered 
bond programmes to provide security for the obligations payable on the covered bonds issued by the Group. Similarly to securitisation 
programmes, the Group is entitled to any residual income after all payments due to covered bonds investors have been met. The Group 
retains all of the risks and rewards associated with the residential mortgages and where derivatives have not been externalised, interest 
rate and foreign currency risk are held in the Group. The covered bonds SPE‟s are consolidated, the residential mortgages are retained 
on the Group‟s balance sheet and the covered bonds issued are included within debt securities on issue. The covered bond holders have 
dual recourse to the Bank or the covered pool assets. 

The table below presents the Bank‟s and Group‟s securitisation and covered bonds programmes, together with the asset balances that 
didn‟t qualify for derecognition and the carrying value of the notes on issue as at 30 June 2012. 

(1) Loans and associated liabilities are classified as Group on the basis that the associated liabilities are issued externally.   

(2) Loans balance excludes the prepaid cash collection accounts. 

(3) The Bank originated residential mortgage backing securities include $66 billion of mortgages that are currently held for potential repurchase with central banks.  

The table below provides a breakdown of exposures to the securitisation vehicles that the Group has established. 

(1) Unfunded amounts apply to financial arrangements the Group holds with securitisation vehicles that the SPE is yet to fully draw upon.  

(2) Derivatives are measured on the basis of Potential Credit Exposure (PCE), a credit risk measurement of maximum risk over the term of the transaction, or current fair 

value where PCE is not available.  

214 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Group (1)Bank20122011201220112012201120122011Note $M$M$M$M$M$M$M$MSecuritisation programmesResidential mortgages (3)9,27911,2967,8589,42475,11345,83175,09545,512Total securitisation programmes239,27911,2967,8589,42475,11345,83175,09545,512Covered bonds programmesResidential mortgages22,358-12,789-19,893-11,423-Total covered bonds programmes2322,358-12,789-19,893-11,423-Total securitisation and covered bonds programmes31,63711,29620,6479,42495,00645,83186,51845,512AssociatedAssociatedLoansLiabilitiesLoans (2)LiabilitiesGroupFunded Unfunded (1)Total 201220112012201120122011Exposure to securitisation vehicles$M$M$M$M$M$MResidential mortgage backed securities held for potential repurchase with central banks72,19243,662--72,19243,662Other residential mortgage backed securities3,5352,125--3,5352,125Derivatives (2)1,5191,478--1,5191,478Liquidity support & other facilities8841,0619728721,8561,933Total78,13048,32697287279,10249,198 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 48 Controlled Entities 

(a) Principal subsidiaries 

The material subsidiaries of the Bank, based on contribution to the consolidated entity‟s profit, size of investment or nature of activity 
are: 

All the above subsidiaries are 100% owned and incorporated in Australia. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

215 

Entity name  Entity name  Australia(a) BankingAustralian Investment Exchange LimitedMedallion Trust Series 2005-1GBank of Western Australia LimitedMedallion Trust Series 2006-1GBWA Group Services Pty LimitedMedallion Trust Series 2007-1GCBA AIR Pty LimitedMedallion Trust Series 2008-1RCBA Covered Bond TrustMedallion Trust Series 2011-1CBA Equities LimitedMIS Funding No.1 Pty LimitedCBA International Finance Pty LimitedPreferred Capital LimitedCBFC Leasing Pty LimitedSAFE No2 Pty LimitedCBFC LimitedSecuritisation Advisory Services Pty LimitedColonial Finance LimitedSeries 2006-1E SWAN TrustCommonwealth Investments Pty Limited Series 2007-1E SWAN TrustCommonwealth Securities LimitedSeries 2008-1D SWAN TrustGT Funding No. 6 Limited PartnershipSeries 2010-1 SWAN TrustGT Operating No. 5 Limited PartnershipSeries 2010-2 SWAN TrustHomepath Pty LimitedSeries 2011-1 SWAN TrustIWL Broking Solutions LimitedSHIELD Series 50Medallion Trust Series 2004-1GWallaby Warehouse Trust No.1(b) Insurance and Funds ManagementAvanteos Investments LimitedColonial Holding Company LimitedAvanteos Pty LimitedCommonwealth Financial Planning LimitedCapital 121 Pty LimitedCommonwealth Insurance Holdings LimitedColonial Financial Corporation Pty LimitedCommonwealth Insurance LimitedColonial First State Asset Management (Australia) LimitedCommonwealth Managed Investments LimitedColonial First State Capital Management Pty LimitedCount Financial LimitedColonial First State Group LimitedFinancial Wisdom LimitedColonial First State Investments LimitedFirst State Investment Managers (Asia) LimitedColonial First State Property LimitedJacques Martin Administration and Consulting Pty LimitedColonial First State Property Management TrustThe Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society LimitedColonial First State Property Retail Trust 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 48 Controlled Entities (continued) 

(a) Principal Subsidiaries (continued) 

 Non-operating and minor operating controlled entities and investment vehicles holding policyholder assets are excluded from the above 
list. 

(b) Disposal of Controlled Entities 

There has been no disposal of controlled entities during the year. The Group disposed of certain St Andrew‟s operations effective 1 July 
2010. For further details refer to Note 45(c). 

216 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

Extent of Beneficial  Entity name  Interest if not 100%  Incorporated in  New Zealand(a) BankingAegis LimitedNew ZealandASB Bank LimitedNew ZealandASB Captial No.2 LimitedNew ZealandASB Covered Bond Trustee LtdNew ZealandASB Finance LimitedNew ZealandASB Funding LimitedNew ZealandASB Group Investments LimitedNew ZealandASB Holdings LimitedNew ZealandCBA Asset Holdings (NZ) LimitedNew ZealandCBA Funding (NZ) LimitedNew ZealandCBA USD Funding LimitedNew ZealandMedallion NZ Series Trust 2009-1RNew Zealand(b) Insurance and Funds ManagementASB Cash FundNew ZealandASB Group (Life) LimitedNew ZealandASB Term FundNew ZealandKiwi Property Management LimitedNew ZealandSovereign LimitedNew ZealandOther Overseas(a) Banking Burdekin Investments LimitedCayman IslandsCBA (Europe) Finance LimitedUnited KingdomCBA Capital Trust IDelaware USACBA Capital Trust IIDelaware USACBA Funding Trust IDelaware USACommBank Europe LimitedMaltaCommCapital S.a.r.lLuxembourgCommInternational LimitedMaltaCTB Australia LimitedHong KongNewport LimitedMaltaPT Bank Commonwealth97%Indonesia(b) Insurance and Funds ManagementFirst State Investment Management (UK) LimitedUnited KingdomFirst State Investment Services (UK) LimitedUnited KingdomFirst State Investments (Bermuda) LimitedBermudaFirst State Investments (Hong Kong) LimitedHong KongFirst State Investments (Singapore)SingaporeFirst State Investments (UK Holdings) LimitedUnited KingdomFirst State Investments (UK) LimitedUnited KingdomFirst State Investment Holdings (Singapore) LimitedSingaporeFirst State Investments International LimitedUnited KingdomPT Commonwealth Life80%IndonesiaSI Holdings LimitedUnited Kingdom 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements 

Note 48 Controlled Entities (continued) 

(c) Acquisition of Controlled Entities 

The Group gained control of Count Financial Limited (Count Financial) on 29 November 2011. The Group subsequently acquired 100% of 
the  issued  share  capital  on  9  December  2011.  Count  Financial  is  an  independent,  accountant-based  financial  advice  business.  This 
acquisition will support the Group in growing its distribution capabilities through the expansion of its adviser network. 

The fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date are as follows: 

Count  Financial  contributed  revenues  of  $66.9  million  to  the  Group  for  the  period  from  29  November  2011  to  30  June  2012.  If  the 
acquisition had occurred on 1 July 2011, the revenue for the full year 30 June 2012 would have been $117.9 million and the profit would 
have been $12.0 million (30 June 2011: $56.1 million profit, includes one off gain from the partial sale of Countplus Limited).  

The goodwill recognised above is attributable to the expected synergies and other benefits arising from integrating the assets and activities 
of Count Financial with the Group. None of the goodwill is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. 

The fair value and gross contractual amount of trade receivables is $7 million. At acquisition date, all trade receivables were expected to be 
collected in full. 

Advisory related costs of $8 million are included as other expenses in the income statement and are part of operating cash flows in the 
statement of cash flows. 

Note 49 Subsequent Events 

The Bank expects to issue approximately $784 million of ordinary shares in respect of the DRP for the final dividend for the year ended 30 
June 2012. 

The Directors are not aware of any other matter or circumstance that has occurred since the end of the financial year that has significantly 
affected  or  may  significantly  affect  the  operations  of  the  Group,  the  results  of  those  operations  or  the  state  of  affairs  of  the  Group  in 
subsequent financial years.  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

217 

Fair Valueat acquisition$MCash and cash equivalents10Trade receivables7Investments in associates55Available-for-sale investments36Identifiable intangible assets55Other assets10Payables(9)Borrowings(12)Current tax liabilities(2)Deferred tax liabilities(10)Net identifiable assets at fair value140Add: Goodwill232Purchase consideration transferred372Less: Cash and cash equivalents acquired(10)362Less: Non-cash consideration(237)Net cash outflow on acquisition12530/06/12Details of equity instruments issued as part of business combinationsNumber of equity instruments issued5,042,949Fair value of equity issued ($m)237 
 
 
  
  
  
 
Directors’ Declaration 

In accordance with a resolution of the Directors of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (Bank), the Directors declare that: 

(a)  the  financial  statements  for  the  financial  year  ended  30  June  2012  in  relation  to  the  Bank  and  the  consolidated  entity  (Group) 
(together  the  Financial  Statements),  and  the  notes  to  the  Financial  Statements,  are  in  accordance  with  the  Corporations  Act  2001, 
including: 

(i) s 296 (which requires the financial report, including the Financial Statements and the notes to the Financial Statements, to 
comply with the accounting standards); and 

(ii) s 297 (which requires the Financial Statements, and the notes to the Financial Statements, to give a true and fair view of 
the financial position and performance of the Group and the Bank); 

(b) in compliance with the accounting standards, the notes to the Financial Statements include an explicit and unreserved statement of 
compliance with international financial reporting standards (see Note 1(a)); 

(c) in the opinion of the Directors, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Bank will be able to pay its debts as and when they 
become due and payable; and 

(d) the Directors have been given the declarations required by s 295A in respect of the financial year ended 30 June 2012. 

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Directors. 

D J Turner 

Chairman 

15 August 2012 

I M Narev 

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer 

15 August 2012 

218 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent auditor’s report to the members of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia 

Report on the financial report  

We have audited the accompanying financial report of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, which comprises the balance sheet as at 
30 June 2012, the income statement, the statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and the statement of 
cash flows for the year ended on that date, a summary of significant accounting policies, other explanatory notes and the directors‟ 
declaration for both the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and the Group (the consolidated entity). The consolidated entity comprises 
the Commonwealth Bank of Australia 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 Commonwealth Bank of Australia are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair 
view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 2001 and for such internal control as the directors 
determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or 
error. In Note 1(a), the directors also state, in accordance with Accounting Standard AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements, 
that the financial statements comply with International Financial Reporting Standards. 

Auditor’s responsibility 

Our  responsibility  is  to  express  an  opinion  on  the  financial  report  based  on  our  audit. We  conducted  our  audit  in  accordance  with 
Australian Auditing Standards. These  Auditing Standards  require that  we  comply  with  relevant  ethical requirements  relating to  audit 
engagements  and  plan  and  perform  the  audit  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  whether  the  financial  report  is  free  from  material 
misstatement. 

An  audit  involves  performing  procedures  to  obtain  audit  evidence  about  the  amounts  and  disclosures  in  the  financial  report.  The 
procedures selected depend on the auditor‟s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial 
report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity‟s 
preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, 
but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity‟s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating 
the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the directors, as well as 
evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report. 

Our  procedures  include  reading  the  other  information  in  the  Annual  Report  to  determine  whether  it  contains  any  material 
inconsistencies with the financial report. 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinions.  

Independence 

In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.  

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
Darling Park Tower 2, 201 Sussex Street, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY NSW 1171  
DX 77 Sydney, Australia 
T +61 2 8266 0000, F +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

219 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent auditor’s report to the members of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (continued) 

Auditor’s opinion  

In our opinion: 

(a) 

the financial report of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including: 

(i) 

(ii) 

giving a true and fair view of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and consolidated entity‟s financial position as at 
30 June 2012 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(a). 

Report on the Remuneration Report 

We have audited the remuneration report included in pages  69 to 88 of the directors‟ report for the year ended 30 June  2012. The 
directors of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in 
accordance with section 300A of the  Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, 
based on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. 

Auditor’s opinion  

In our opinion, the remuneration report of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia for the year ended 30 June 2012 complies with section 
300A of the Corporations Act 2001. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Rahoul Chowdry 

Partner 

Sydney 

15 August 2012 

220 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholding Information 

Top 20 Holders of Fully Paid Ordinary Shares as at 3 August 2012 

Rank 
1 

2 
3 

4 
5 

6 
7 

8 

9 
10 

11 
12 

13 

14 
15 

16 
17 

18 
19 

20 

Name of Holder 

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 

J P Morgan Nominees Australia Limited 
National Nominees Limited 

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 
Cogent Nominees Pty Limited 

RBC Dexia Investor Services Australia Nominees Pty Limited 
AMP Life Limited 

Australian Foundation Investment Company Limited 

UBS Wealth Management Australia Nominees Pty Limited 
Bond Street Custodians Limited 

Milton Corporation Limited 
Queensland Investment Corporation 

Argo Investments Limited 

Navigator Australia Limited 
Invia Custodian Pty Limited 

Perpetual Trustee Co Limited (Hunter) 
Questor Financial Services Limited 

UBS Nominees Pty Limited 
Nulis Nominees (Australia) Limited 

Pershing Australia Nominees Limited 

Number of Shares 
224,434,908  

177,164,675  
135,819,906  

66,627,637  
34,978,463  

19,789,298  
13,795,362  

8,527,900  

7,130,942  
5,308,173  

3,013,225  
2,998,879  

2,777,895  

2,647,807  
2,486,397  

2,387,645  
2,200,705  

2,144,941  
2,070,683  

2,000,616  

% 
14.10 

11.13 
8.53 

4.18 
2.20 

1.24 
0.87 

0.54 

0.45 
0.33 

0.19 
0.19 

0.17 

0.17 
0.16 

0.15 
0.14 

0.13 
0.13 

0.13 

The top 20 shareholders hold 718,306,057 shares which is equal to 45.13% of the total shares on issue. 
 Stock Exchange Listing 
The shares of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia are listed on the Australian Securities Exchange under the trade symbol CBA, with 
Sydney being the home exchange. 

Details of trading activity are published in most daily newspapers, generally under the abbreviation of CBA or C‟wealth Bank. The Bank 
does not have a current on-market buy-back of its shares. 

Range of Shares (Fully Paid Ordinary Shares and Employee Shares): 3 August 2012 

Range 

1 – 1,000 
1,001 – 5,000 
5,001 – 10,000 
10,001 – 100,000 
100,001 and over 
Total 
Less than marketable parcel of $500 

Voting Rights 

Number of 
Shareholders 

Percentage of 
Shareholders 

582,237  
181,331  
17,459  
7,466  
216  
788,709  
14,028 

73.82 
22.99 
2.21 
0.95 
0.03 
100.00  
1.78 

Number of 
Shares 

193,135,224  
376,625,834  
119,547,918  
141,474,372  
761,371,432  
1,592,154,780  
54,765 

Percentage of 
Issued 
Capital 

12.13 
23.66 
7.50 
8.89 
47.82 
100.00 
0.00 

Under the Bank‟s Constitution, each person who is a voting Equity holder and who is present at a general meeting of the Bank in person 
or by proxy, attorney or official representative is entitled: 

  On a show of hands – to one vote; and 
  On a poll – to one vote for each share held or represented. 

If a person present at a general meeting represents personally or by proxy, attorney or official representative more than one Equity 
holder, on a show of hands the person is entitled to one vote even though he or she represents more than one Equity holder. 

If an Equity holder is present in person and votes on a resolution, any proxy or attorney of that Equity holder is not entitled to vote. 

If more than one official representative or attorney is present for an Equity holder: 

None of them is entitled to vote on a show of hands; and 

 
  On a poll only one official representative may exercise the Equity holders voting rights and the vote of each attorney shall be of no 
effect unless each is appointed to represent a specified proportion of the Equity holders voting rights, not exceeding in aggregate 
100%. 

If an Equity holder appoints two proxies and both are present at the meeting: 

 

If the appointment does not specify the proportion or number of the Equity holder‟s votes each proxy may exercise, then on a poll 
each proxy may exercise one half of the Equity holder‟s votes; 

Neither proxy shall be entitled to vote on a show of hands; and 

 
  On a poll each proxy may only exercise votes in respect of those shares or voting rights the proxy represents. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

221 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholding Information 

Top 20 Holders of Perpetual Exchangeable Repurchaseable Listed Shares III (“PERLS III”) as at 3 August 2012 

Rank 
1 

Name of Holder 

AMP Life Limited 

2 

3 
4 

5 

6 
7 

8 
9 

10 

11 
12 

13 
14 

15 
16 

17 

18 
19 

20 

UBS Wealth Management Australia Nominees Pty Limited 

J P Morgan Nominees Australia Limited 
National Nominees Limited 

Navigator Australia Limited 

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 
Mr Walter Lawton and Mrs Jan Rynette Lawton 

RBC Dexia Investor Services Australia Nominees Pty Limited 
Perpetual Trustee Company Limited 

The Australian National University Investment Section 

Nulis Nominees (Australia) Limited 
ANZ Executors & Trustee Company Limited 

Mr John Stuart Walker + Mr Ralph Lane 
Catholic Education Office Diocese of Parramatta 

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 
Truckmate (Australia) Pty Limited 

Kerlon Pty Limited 

Mutual Trust Pty Limited 
Questor Financial Services Limited 

UCA Cash Management Fund Limited 

Number of Shares 
155,309  

151,330  

91,980  
85,891  

82,887  

82,150  
70,000  

63,086  
57,462  

56,282  

55,400  
52,639  

50,000  
49,750  

39,843  
35,000  

30,000  

28,275  
26,190  

25,996  

% 
2.66 

2.59 

1.58 
1.47 

1.42 

1.41 
1.20 

1.08 
0.99 

0.97 

0.95 
0.90 

0.86 
0.85 

0.68 
0.60 

0.51 

0.48 
0.45 

0.45 

The top 20 PERLS III shareholders hold 1,289,470 shares which is equal to 22.10% of the total shares on issue. 

Stock Exchange Listing 

PERLS III are preference shares issued by Preferred Capital Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank) and are listed on the 
Australian Securities Exchange under the trade symbol PCAPA, with Sydney being the home exchange. Details of trading activity are 
published in most daily newspapers. 

Range of Shares (PERLS III): 3 August 2012 

Range 

1 – 1,000 
1,001 – 5,000 

5,001 – 10,000 
10,001 – 100,000 

100,001 and over 

Total 
Less than marketable parcel of $500 

Voting Rights 

Number of 
Shareholders 

Percentage of 
Shareholders 

17,922  
544  

31  
36  

2  

18,535  
21  

96.69 
2.93 

0.17 
0.20 

0.01 

100.00 
0.11 

Number of 
Shares 

3,058,704  
1,058,166  

242,410  
1,166,362  

306,639  

5,832,281  
40  

Percentage 
of Issued 
Capital 

52.44 
18.14 

4.16 
20.00 

5.26 

100.00 
0.00 

PERLS III do not confer any voting rights in the Bank but if they are exchanged for or convert into ordinary shares or preference shares 
of the Bank in accordance with their terms of issue, the voting rights of the ordinary or preference shares (as the case may be) will be as 
set out on page 221 for the Bank‟s ordinary shares. 

The holders will not be entitled to vote at a general meeting of the Bank except in the following circumstances: 

If at the time of the meeting, a dividend has been declared but has not been paid in full by the relevant payment date; 

 
  On a proposal to reduce the Bank‟s share capital; 
  On a resolution to approve the terms of a buy-back agreement; 
  On a proposal that affects rights attached to the preference shares; 
  On a proposal to wind up the Bank;  
  On a proposal for the disposal of the whole of the Bank‟s property, business and undertaking; 
 
 

During the winding up of the Bank; or 
As otherwise required under the Listing Rules from time to time, in which case the holders will have the same rights as to manner 
of attendance and as to voting in respect of each preference share as those conferred on ordinary shareholders in respect of each 
ordinary share. 

At a general meeting of the Bank, holders of preference shares are entitled: 

  On a show of hands, to exercise one vote when entitled to vote in respect of the matters listed above; and 
  On a poll, to one vote for each preference share. 

The holders will be entitled to receive notice of any general meeting of the Bank and a copy of every circular or other like document sent 
out by the Bank to ordinary shareholders and to attend any general meeting of the Bank. 

222 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholding Information 

Top 20 Holders of Perpetual Exchangeable Resaleable Listed Securities IV (“PERLS IV”) as at 3 August 2012 

 Rank 
1 
2 

Name of Holder 

UBS Wealth Management Australia Nominees Pty Limited 
J P Morgan Nominees Australia Limited 

Number of Shares 
300,757  
212,720  

3 
4 

5 
6 

7 

8 
9 

10 
11 

12 

13 
14 

15 
16 

17 
18 

19 

20 

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 
UCA Cash Management Fund Limited 

Questor Financial Services Limited 
UBS Nominees Pty Limited 

Invia Custodian Pty Limited 

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 
Eastcote Pty Limited 

RBC Dexia Investor Services Australia Nominees Pty Limited 
Avanteos Investments Limited 

Navigator Australia Limited 

Fortis Clearing Nominees Pty Limited 
Cogent Nominees Pty Limited 

National Nominees Limited 
Nulis Nominees (Australia) Limited 

The Australian National University Investment Section 
Ian Potter Foundation Limited 

Netwealth Investments Limited 

Mutual Trust Pty Ltd 

174,436  
150,000  

134,336  
114,000  

111,289  

90,623  
90,000  

77,289  
48,759  

48,150  

47,951  
42,202  

41,233  
35,066  

31,082  
30,000  

28,132  

26,478  

% 
4.11 
2.90 

2.38 
2.05 

1.83 
1.56 

1.52 

1.24 
1.23 

1.06 
0.67 

0.66 

0.65 
0.58 

0.56 
0.48 

0.42 
0.41 

0.38 

0.36 

The top 20 PERLS IV shareholders hold 1,834,503 shares which is equal to 25.05% of the total shares on issue. 

Stock Exchange Listing 

PERLS IV are stapled securities issued by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and are listed on the Australian Securities Exchange 
under  the  trade  symbol  CBAPB,  with  Sydney  being  the  home  exchange.  Details  of  trading  activity  are  published  in  most  daily 
newspapers. 

Range of Shares (PERLS IV): 3 August 2012 

Range 

1 – 1,000 

1,001 – 5,000 
5,001 – 10,000 

10,001 – 100,000 
100,001 and over 

Total 

Less than marketable parcel of $500 

Voting Rights 

Number of 
Shareholders 

15,814 

790 
53 

37 
6 

16,700 

2 

Percentage of 
Shareholders 

94.69 

4.73 
0.32 

0.22 
0.04 

100.00 

0.01 

Number of 
Shares 

3,396,123 

1,579,027 
384,571 

964,538 
1,000,741 

7,325,000 

2 

Percentage of 
Issued 
Capital 

46.36 

21.56 
5.25 

13.17 
13.66 

100.00 

0.00 

PERLS IV confer voting rights in the Bank in the following limited circumstances: 

  When dividend payments on the preference shares are in arrears; 
  On proposals to reduce the Bank‟s Share Capital; 
  On a proposal that affects rights attached to preference shares; 
  On a resolution to approve the terms of a buy-back agreement; 
  On a proposal to wind up the Bank; 
  On a proposal for the disposal of the whole of the Bank‟s property, business and undertaking; and 
 

During the winding-up of the Bank. 

Furthermore  if  PERLS  IV  convert  into  ordinary  shares  of  the  Bank  in  accordance  with  their  terms  of  issue,  the  voting  rights  of  the 
ordinary shares will be as set out on page 221. 

At a general meeting of the Bank, holders of PERLS IV are entitled: 

  On a show of hands, to exercise one vote when entitled to vote on the matters listed above; and 
  On a poll, to exercise one vote for each preference share. 

The holders will be entitled to the same rights as the holders of the Bank‟s ordinary shares in relation to receiving notices, reports and 
financial statements and attending and being heard at all general meetings of the Bank. 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

223 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholding Information 

Top 20 Holders of Perpetual Exchangeable Resaleable Listed Securities V (“PERLS V”) as at 3 August 2012 

 Rank 
1 

2 

3 
4 

5 
6 

7 
8 

9 

10 
11 

12 
13 

14 

15 
16 

17 
18 

19 
20 

Name of Holder 

UBS Wealth Management Australia 

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 

Questor Financial Services Limited 
Navigator Australia Limited 

J P Morgan Nominees Australia Limited 
RBC Dexia Investor Services Australia Nominees Pty Limited 

Nulis Nominees (Australia) Limited 
Australian Executor Trustees Limited 

Netwealth Investments Limited 

Avanteos Investments Limited 
Invia Custodian Pty Limited 

Dimbulu Pty Ltd 
ABN AMRO Clearing Sydney Nominees Pty Ltd 

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 

National Nominees Limited 
Amelvan Pty Limited 

Perpetual Trustee Co Limited (Hunter) 
JMB Pty Limited 

Bond Street Custodians Limited 
Peters (Meat) Export Pty Limited 

Number of Shares 
253,564  

197,479  

154,490  
126,865  

103,576  
91,205  

79,762  
67,273  

58,314  

51,335  
50,615  

50,000  
46,726  

43,774  

40,813  
39,220  

39,074  
33,925  

31,664  
28,455  

% 
2.54 

1.97 

1.54 
1.27 

1.04 
0.91 

0.80 
0.67 

0.58 

0.51 
0.51 

0.50 
0.47 

0.44 

0.41 
0.39 

0.39 
0.34 

0.32 
0.28 

The top 20 PERLS V shareholders hold 1,588,129 shares which is equal to 15.88% of the total shares on issue. 
 Stock Exchange Listing 
PERLS V are stapled securities issued by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and are listed on the Australian Securities Exchange 
under  the  trade  symbol  CBAPA,  with  Sydney  being  the  home  exchange.  Details  of  trading  activity  are  published  in  most  daily 
newspapers. 

Range of Shares (PERLS V): 3 August 2012 

Range 

Number of 
Shareholders 

Percentage of 
Shareholders 

1 – 1,000 
1,001 – 5,000 
5,001 – 10,000 
10,001 – 100,000 
100,001 and over 
Total 
Less than marketable parcel of $500 
 Voting Rights 
PERLS V confer voting rights in the Bank in the following limited circumstances: 

32,242 
1,020 
66 
49 
4 
33,381 
3 

96.58 
3.06 
0.20 
0.15 
0.01 
100.00 
0.01 

Number of 
Shares 

5,557,969 
2,016,610 
504,568 
1,225,526 
695,327 
10,000,000 
3 

Percentage of 
Issued 
Capital 

55.57 
20.17 
5.05 
12.26 
6.95 
100.00 
0.00 

  When dividend payments on the preference shares are in arrears; 
  On proposals to reduce the Bank‟s Share Capital; 
  On a proposal that affects rights attached to preference shares; 
  On a resolution to approve the terms of a buy-back agreement; 
  On a proposal to wind up the Bank; 
  On a proposal for the disposal of the whole of the Bank‟s property, business and undertaking; and 
 

During the winding-up of the Bank. 

Furthermore  if  PERLS  V  convert  into  ordinary  shares  of  the  Bank  in  accordance  with  their  terms  of  issue,  the  voting  rights  of  the 
ordinary shares will be as set out on page 221. 

At a general meeting of the Bank, holders of PERLS V are entitled: 
  On a show of hands, to exercise one vote when entitled to vote on the matters listed above; and 
  On a poll, to exercise one vote for each preference share. 

The holders will be entitled to the same rights as the holders of the Bank‟s ordinary shares in relation to receiving notices, reports and 
financial statements and attending and being heard at all general meetings of the Bank. 

Trust Preferred Securities 

550,000 Trust Preferred Securities were issued on 6 August 2003. Cede & Co is registered as the sole holder of these securities. 

700,000 Trust Preferred Securities were issued on 15 March 2006. Cede & Co is registered as the sole holder of these securities. 

The  Trust  Preferred  Securities  do  not  confer  any  voting  rights  in  the  Bank  but  if  they  are  exchanged  for  or  converted  into  ordinary 
shares or preference shares of the Bank in accordance with their terms of issue, the voting rights of the ordinary or preference shares 
(as the case may be) will be as set out on page 221 for the Bank‟s ordinary shares and page 222 for the preference shares. 

224 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
Australia 
Head Office 
Commonwealth Bank of Australia 
Ground Floor, Tower 1 
201 Sussex Street 
Sydney NSW 2000 
Telephone: (61 2) 9378 2000 

New Zealand 
ASB Bank Limited 
Level 28 ASB Bank Centre 
135 Albert Street, Auckland 
Telephone: (64 9) 377 8930 
Facsimile: (64 9) 358 3511 
Managing Director 
Barbara Chapman 

Sovereign Group Limited 
Sovereign House, 74 Taharato Road 
Takapuna, Auckland 
Telephone: (64 9) 487 9000 
Facsimile: (64 9) 486 1913 
Managing Director 
Charles Anderson  

Colonial First State Global Asset 
Management 
Kiwi Income Property Trust 
Level 14, DLA Phillips Fox Tower 
National Bank Centre 
205-209 Queen Street 
Auckland 
New Zealand 
Telephone (64 9) 359 4000) 
Facsimile (64 9) 359 3997 
Chief Executive Officer 
Chris Gudgeon 

First State Investments 
Level 3, 33-45 Hurstmere Road 
Takapuna 
Auckland 0622 
New Zealand 
Telephone: (64 9) 448 4922 
Facsimile: (64 9) 486 7131 
Regional Managing Director of  
Australia and New Zealand 
Joanna Davison 

Americas 
United States 
CBA Branch Office 
Level 17, 599 Lexington Avenue  
New York NY 10022 
Telephone: (1 212) 848 9391 
Facsimile: (1 212) 336 7772 
Executive Vice President and 
General Manager, Americas 
Ian Phillips 

International Representation 

First State Investments 
Level 17, 599 Lexington Avenue 
New York NY 10022 
Telephone: (1 212) 848 9200 
Facsimile: (1 212) 336 7725 
Managing Director, Americas 
James Twiss 

China 
CBA, Beijing Representative Office 
2909 China World Towers 1 
1 Jian Guo Men Wai Avenue 
Beijing 100004 
Telephone: (86 10) 6505 5350 
Facsimile: (86 10) 6505 5354 
China Chief Representative 
Tony Zhang 

CBA Shanghai Branch Office 
Level 11 Azia Centre  
1233 Lujiazui Ring Road  
Pudong  
Shanghai 200120 
Telephone: (86 21) 6123 8900 
Facsimile: (86 21) 6165 0285 
Branch Manager Shanghai 
Stanley Lo  

CBA (Jiyuan) County Bank Co., Ltd. 
No.66, East Jishui Street, Jiyuan, 
Henan Province 459000 
Telephone: (86 391) 556 5625 
Facsimile: (86 391) 556 5625 
Managing Director 
Guo Wei 

CBA (Dengfeng) County Bank Co., Ltd. 
No. 1, Fu Lane 1, Songshan Road, 
Dengfeng City, Henan Province 452470 
Telephone: (86 371) 6905 1006 
Facsimile: (86 371) 6905 1015 
Managing Director 
Allen Li 

CBA (Lankao) County Bank Co., Ltd. 
East, Kaocheng Road, Lankao City, 
Henan Province 475300 
Telephone: (86 378) 631 7888 
Facsimile: (86 378) 696 6997 
Managing Director 
Allen Li 

CBA (Yichuan) County Bank Co., Ltd. 
No. 132, East Side of North Wenhua Road 
Yichuan, Luoyang,  
Henan Province 471300 
Telephone: (86 379) 6833 7161 
Facsimile: (86 379) 6833 7185 
Managing Director 
Allen Li 

CBA (Mianchi) County Bank Co., Ltd. 
Store 2#-04&-05, Xinhua International 
Quarter 
Mianchi, Henan 472400 
Telephone: (86 398) 483 3908 
Facsimile: (86 398) 483 3906 
Managing Director 
Allen Li 

CommBank Management Consulting  
(Shanghai) Co. Ltd 
11F Azia Centre 
1233 Lujiazui Ring Road, Pudong 
Shanghai 200120 
Telephone: (86 21) 6058 0100 
Facsimile: (8621) 6168 3298 
Executive General Manager China 
Karen Chen 

First  State  Cinda  Fund  Management  Co. 
Ltd. 
24th Floor, China Merchants Bank 
Building 
7088, Shen Nan Road, Shenzhen 
China 518040  
Telephone: (86 755) 8317 2666 
Facsimile: (86 755) 8319 6151 
Regional Managing Director, 
Asia and Japan 
Michael Stapleton 

Hong Kong 
CBA Branch Office 
1501-5, Charter House 
8 Connaught Road,  
Central 
Hong Kong 
Telephone: (852) 2844 7500 
Facsimile: (852) 2845 9194 
Regional General Manager Asia 
Stephen Poon 

First State Investments (Hong Kong)  
Limited 
6th Floor, Three Exchange Square 
8 Connaught Place, Central 
Hong Kong 
Telephone: (852) 2846 7555 
Facsimile: (852) 2868 4742 
Regional Managing Director, 
Regional Head Asia 
Michael Stapleton 

India 
CBA Mumbai Branch 
Level 2, Hoechst House 
Nariman Point 
Mumbai 400021 
Telephone: (91 22) 6139 0100 
Facsimile: (91 22) 6139 0200 
Chief Executive Officer 
Ravindra Parakushan 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

225 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
International Representation 

Indonesia 
PT Bank Commonwealth 
Level 3A, Wisma Metropolitan II 
Jl. Jendral Sudirman Kav. 29-31 
Jakarta 12920 
Telephone: (62 21) 5296 1222 
Facsimile: (62 21) 5296 2293 
President Director 
Tony Costa 

PT Commonwealth Life 
Level 8, Wisma Metropolitan II 
JI. Jendral Sudirman Kav. 29-31 
Jakarta 12920 
Telephone: (62 21) 570 5000 
Facsimile: (62 21) 520 5353 
President Director 
Simon Bennett 

PT First State Investments Indonesia 
29th Floor, Gedung Artha Graha 
Sudirman Central Business District 
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 52-53 
Jakarta 12190, Indonesia 
Telephone: (62 21) 2935 3300 
Facsimile: (62 21) 2935 3388 
Head of FSI Indonesia 
Hario Soeprobo 

Japan 
CBA Branch Office 
8th Floor, Toranomon Waiko Building 
12-1 Toranomon 5-chome 
Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0001 
Telephone: (81 3) 5400 7280 
Facsimile: (81 3) 5400 7288 
Branch Head Tokyo 
Martin Spann 

First State Investments 
8th Floor, Toranomon Waiko Building 
12-1 Toranomon 5-chome 
Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0001 
Telephone: (81 3) 5402 4831 
Facsimile: (81 3) 5402 4839 
Regional Managing Director, 
Asia and Japan 
Michael Stapleton 

Singapore 
CBA Branch Office 
One Temasek Avenue 
#17-01 Millenia Tower 
Singapore 039192 
Telephone: (65) 6349 7000 
Facsimile: (65) 6224 5812 
Country Head 
Gregory Williams 

First State Investments (Singapore) 
One Temasek Avenue  
#17-01 Millenia Tower 
Singapore 039192 
Singapore 
Telephone: (65) 6538 0008 
Facsimile: (65) 6538 0800 
Regional Managing Director,  
Asia and Japan 
Michael Stapleton 

Vietnam 
CBA Representative Office 
Suite 202-203A 
Central Building  
31 Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi 
Telephone: (84 4) 3824 3213 
Facsimile: (84 4) 3824 3961 
Chief Representative & Director of  
Investment and Banking 
Hahn Nuygen 

CBA HCMC Branch office 
Ground Floor 
Han Nam Office 
65 Nguyen Du St., Dist. 1 
Ho Chi Minh City 
Telephone: (84 8) 3824 1525 
Facsimile: (84 8) 3824 2703 
General Director 
Ross Munn 

Europe 
United Kingdom 
CBA Branch Office 
Senator House 
85 Queen Victoria Street 
London EC4V 4HA 
Telephone: (44 20) 7710 3999 
Facsimile: (44 20) 7329 6611 
Regional General Manager Europe 
Paul Orchart 

First State Investments (UK) Limited 
3rd Floor, 30 Cannon Street 
London EC4M 6YQ 
Telephone: (44 0 20) 7332 6500 
Facsimile: (44 0 20) 7332 6501 
Regional Managing Director (EMEA) 
Gary Withers 

Edinburgh 
23 St Andrew Square 
Edinburgh EH2 1BB 
Telephone: (44 0 131) 473 2200 
Facsimile: (44 0 131) 473 2222 
Regional Managing Director (EMEA) 
Gary Withers 

Malta 
CommBank Europe Limited 
Level 3 Strand Towers 
36 The Strand 
Sliema SLM07 
Telephone: (356) 2132 0812 
Facsimile: (356) 2132 0811 
Director/Chief Financial Officer 
John Kiddier 

Paris 
First State Investments 
15, Avenue d‟Eylau 
75016 Paris 
France 
Telephone: (33 1) 7302 4674 
Regional Managing Director (EMEA) 
Gary Withers 

226 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

® Registered to BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518 

Available  from  8am  to  8pm  (Sydney  Time),  Monday  to  Friday, 
for share trading and stock market enquiries, and 8am to 8pm 7 
days  a  week for  Commsec  Cash Management. A  24  hour lost 
and stolen card line is available 24 hours, 7 days a week.  

131 709 CommSec Margin Loan  

Enables you to expand your portfolio by borrowing against your 
existing shares and managed funds. To find out more simply call 
131  709  8am to 8pm  (Sydney  Time)  Monday  to  Friday  or  visit 
www.commsec.com.au. 

132 224 Home Loans & Investment Home Loans 

To  apply  for  a  new  home  loan/investment  home  loan  or  to 
maintain an existing loan. Available from 8am to 10pm, 7 days a 
week. 

131 431 Personal Loan Sales 

To apply for a new personal loan. 

Available from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. 

1800 805 605 Customer Relations 

1800 019 910 Corporate Financial Services 

For a full range of financial solutions for medium-size and larger 
companies.  

Available from 8am to 6pm (Sydney Time), Monday to Friday. 

131 998 Local Business Banking 

A dedicated team of Business Banking Specialists, supporting a 
network  of  branch  business  bankers,  will  help  you  with  your 
financial needs. 

Available  24  hours  a  day,  7  days  a  week  or  visit 
www.commbank.com.au/lbb 

If you would like to pay us a compliment or are dissatisfied with 
any aspect of the service you have received. 

1300 245 463 (1300 AGLINE) AgriLine 

Internet Banking 

You can apply for a home loan, credit card, personal loan, term 
deposit  or  a  savings  account  on  the  internet  by  visiting  our 
website at www.commbank.com.au available 24 hours a day, 7 
days a week. 

Do  your  everyday  banking  on  our  internet  banking  service 
NetBank at www.commbank.com.au/netbank available 24 hours 
a day, 7 days a week. 

To apply for access to NetBank, call 132 828. 

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Do  your  business  banking  on  our  Business  Internet  Banking 
at  www.commbank.com.au/CommBiz 
Service  CommBiz 
available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

To apply for access to CommBiz, call 132 339. 

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Special Telephony Services 

Customers who are hearing or speech impaired can contact us 
via  the  National  Relay  Service  (www.relayservice.com.au)  (24 
hours a day, 7 days a week). 

  Telephone Typewriter (TTY) service users can be connected 

to any of our telephone numbers via 133 677. 

  Speak  and  Listen  (speech-to-speech  relay)  users  can  also 
connect  to  any  of  our  telephone  numbers  by  calling  
1300 555 727. 

 

Internet  relay  users  can  be  connected  to  our  telephone 
numbers via National Relay Service. 

131 519 CommSec (Commonwealth Securities) 

CommSec  provides  the  information  and  tools  to  make  smart 
investment easy, accessible and affordable for all Australians, by 
phone or Internet at www.commsec.com.au  

A dedicated team of Agribusiness Specialists will help you with 
your financial needs. With our Business Banking team living in 
regional and rural Australia, they understand the challenges you 
face.  Available  from  8am  to  6pm,  Monday  to  Friday  (Sydney 
time). 

Colonial First State 

Existing  investors  can  call  131  336  from  8am  to  7pm  (Sydney 
Time) Monday to Friday.  

New investors without a financial adviser can call 1300 360 645. 
Financial advisers can call 131 836. 

Alternatively, visit www.colonialfirststate.com.au 

1300 362 081 Commonwealth Private  

Commonwealth  Private  offers  clients  with  significant  financial 
resources  a  comprehensive  range  of  services,  advice  and 
opportunities  to  meet  their  specific  needs.  For  a  confidential 
discussion about how Commonwealth Private can help you, call 
1300 362 081 between 8am to 5:30pm (Sydney time), Monday 
to Friday or visit www.commonwealthprivate.com.au  

132 015 Commonwealth Financial Services 

For  enquiries  on  retirement  and  superannuation  products,  or 
managed  investments. Available from  8.30am to  6pm (Sydney 
Time), Monday to Friday.  

Unit prices are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  

CommInsure  

For all your general insurance needs call 132 423 8am to 8pm 
(Sydney Time), 7 days a week. 

For  all  your  life  insurance  needs  call  131  056  8am  to  8pm 
(Sydney Time), Monday to Friday. 
Alternatively, visit www.comminsure.com.au 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

227 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Directory 

Registered Office 
Ground Floor, Tower 1 
201 Sussex Street 
Sydney NSW 2000 
Telephone (61 2) 9378 2000 
Facsimile (61 2) 9118 7192 

Company Secretary 
JD Hatton  

Shareholder Information 
www.commbank.com.au/shareholder 

Share Registrar 
Link Market Services Limited 
Locked Bag A14 
SYDNEY SOUTH NSW 1235  
Telephone: (61 2) 8280 7199 
Facsimile: (61 2) 9287 0303 
Freecall: 1800 022 440  
Internet: www.linkmarketservices.com.au  
Email: cba@linkmarketservices.com.au  

Telephone numbers for overseas shareholders  
New Zealand 
0800 442 845  
United Kingdom 
0845 769 7502  
Fiji 
008 002 054  
Other International 
(61 2) 8280 7199  

Australian Securities Exchange Listing 
CBA  

Annual Report 
To request a copy of the Annual Report, please call Link 
Market Services Limited on 1800 022 440 or by email at 
cba@linkmarketservices.com.au 

Electronic versions of Commonwealth Bank‟s past and 
current Annual Reports are available on 
www.commbank.com.au/shareholder/annualreports 

228 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Commonwealth Bank of Australia Annual Report 2012 

229