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FY2018 Annual Report · Dow
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Annual 
Report  

2018

SCHOOLHOSPITALHOTELLAUNDRYCLEANOGAS COThis Annual Report includes 
the Downer EDI Limited  
Directors’ Report, the 
Annual Financial Report and  
Independent Audit Report 
for the financial year ended  
30 June 2018. The Annual 
Report is available on  
the Downer website  
www.downergroup.com.

Contents

Directors’ Report

Page 2

Auditor’s signed reports

Page 52 
Page 53 

 Auditor’s Independence Declaration 
 Independent Auditor’s Report 

Financial Statements

Page 62 
Page 63 
Page 64 
Page 65 

 Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income 
 Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 
 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity 
 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

A

B

C

D

E

F

About this  
report

Business 
performance

Operating assets 
and liabilities

Employee 
benefits 

Capital structure  
and financing

Group 
structure

G

Other 

Page 66-67

Page 68-77

Page 78-87

Page 88

Page 89-95

Page 96-106

Page 107-120

B1
Segment 
information

B2
Profit from 
ordinary activities

B3
Earnings per share

B4
Taxation

B5
Remuneration  
of auditors

B6
Subsequent events

C1
Reconciliation 
of cash and 
cash equivalents

C2
Trade and other 
receivables

C3
Rendering of 
services and 
construction 
contracts

C4
Inventories

C5
Trade and other 
payables

C6
Property, plant  
and equipment

C7
Intangible assets

C8
Provisions

C9
Contingent 
liabilities

Page 121  Directors’ Declaration 

Other information

Page 122  Sustainability Performance Summary 2018
Page 127  Corporate Governance
Page 136 

Information for Investors

D1
Employee benefits 

E1
Borrowings

F1
Joint arrangements 
and associate 
entities

G1
New accounting 
standards

D2
Key management 
personnel 
compensation

D3
Employee discount 
share plan

E2
Financing facilities

F2
Acquisition of 
businesses 

G2
Capital and financial 
risk management

E3
Commitments

F3
Disposal of 
business

G3
Other financial 
assets and liabilities

E4
Issued capital

F4
Controlled entities

E5
Reserves

E6
Dividends

F5
Related party 
information

F6
Parent entity 
disclosures

Annual Report 2018  1

Directors’ Report
for the year ended 30 June 2018

The Directors of Downer EDI Limited submit the Annual 
Financial Report of the Company for the financial year 
ended 30 June 2018. In compliance with the provisions 
of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Directors’ Report 
is set out below.

Board of Directors

R M HARDING (69)
Chairman since November 2010, Independent 
Non‑executive Director since July 2008
Mr Harding has held management positions around the world 
with British Petroleum (BP), including President and General 
Manager of BP Exploration Australia.

Mr Harding is currently the Chairman of Lynas Limited and a 
Director of Cleanaway Waste Management Limited, a former 
Chairman of Roc Oil Company Limited and Clough Limited 
and a former Director of Santos Limited.

Mr Harding holds a Masters in Science, majoring in 
Mechanical Engineering.

Mr Harding lives in Sydney.

G A FENN (53)
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer since 
July 2010
Mr Fenn has over 30 years’ experience in operational 
management, strategic development and financial management. 
He joined Downer in October 2009 as Chief Financial Officer and 
was appointed Chief Executive Officer in July 2010.

He was previously a member of the Qantas Executive 
Committee, holding a number of senior roles over 14 years, 
as well as Chairman of Star Track Express and a Director of 
Australian Air Express. He worked at KPMG for eight years 
before he joined Qantas.

Mr Fenn is currently a Director of Sydney Airport Limited 
and Spotless Group Holdings Limited and a Member of the 
UTS Engineering and IT Industry Advisory Board.

Mr Fenn holds a Bachelor of Economics from Macquarie 
University and is a member of the Australian Institute of 
Chartered Accountants.

Mr Fenn lives in Sydney.

S A CHAPLAIN (60)
Independent Non‑executive Director since July 2008
Ms Chaplain is a former investment banker with extensive 
experience in public and private sector debt financing. She also 
has considerable experience as a Director of local and state 
government-owned corporations involved in road, water and 
port infrastructure.

Ms Chaplain is Chairman of Queensland Airports Limited and a 
Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited. Ms Chaplain is also 
Chairman of Canstar Pty Ltd, a financial services research and 
ratings company and a Director of Credible Labs Inc and The 
Australian Ballet. Her former board roles include being a member 
of the Board of Taxation, a Director of EFIC, Australia’s export 
credit agency and a Director of PanAust .

A Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, 
Ms Chaplain holds a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in 
Economics and Mandarin from Griffith University in addition to 
a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from the University 
of Melbourne. She holds an honorary doctorate from Griffith 
University for her service to banking and finance, and to the 
Gold Coast community.

Ms Chaplain lives on the Gold Coast.

P S GARLING (64)
Independent Non‑executive Director since November 2011
Mr Garling has over 35 years’ experience in the infrastructure, 
construction, development and investment sectors. He was 
the Global Head of Infrastructure at AMP Capital Investors, 
a role he held for nine years. Prior to this, Mr Garling was CEO 
of Tenix Infrastructure and a long-term senior executive at the 
Lend Lease Group, including five years as CEO of Lend Lease 
Capital Services.

Mr Garling is currently the Chairman of Tellus Holdings Limited, 
Energy Queensland Limited and Newcastle Coal Infrastructure 
Group and a Director of Charter Hall Limited and the NSW 
electricity distributor, Essential Energy. He is a former Director of 
Spotless Group Holdings Limited and a past President of Water 
Polo Australia Limited. 

Mr Garling holds a Bachelor of Building from the University of 
New South Wales and the Advanced Diploma from the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors. He is a Fellow of the Australian 
Institute of Building, Australian Institute of Company Directors 
and Institution of Engineers Australia.

Mr Garling lives in Sydney.

2  Downer EDI Limited

A Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors 
and a Member of Chief Executive Women and the Institute 
of Chartered Accountants, Ms Hollows holds a Bachelor of 
Business – Accounting and a Graduate Diploma in Advanced 
Accounting (Distinction) from the Queensland University of 
Technology and is a Graduate of Harvard Business School’s 
Program for Management Development.

Ms Hollows lives in Brisbane.

C G THORNE (68)
Independent Non‑executive Director since July 2010
Dr Thorne has over 36 years’ experience in the mining and 
extraction industry, specifically in senior operational and 
executive roles with Rio Tinto. His experience spanned a range 
of product groups and functional activities in Australia and 
overseas. After serving in London as Group Mining Executive 
from 1996 to 1998, Dr Thorne moved to Indonesia as President 
Director of Kaltim Prima Coal and then returned to Australia 
to manage Rio Tinto’s Australian coal business as Managing 
Director of Rio Tinto Coal Australia and the publicly listed Coal 
and Allied Industries. He was President of the Queensland 
Resources Council in 2001-2003.

In 2006, Dr Thorne was appointed global head of Rio Tinto’s 
technology, innovation and project engineering functions, 
reporting to the Chief Executive. He was a member of Rio Tinto’s 
Executive Committee and Investment Committee. He retired 
from Rio Tinto in 2011.

Dr Thorne is a Director of Spotless Group Holdings Limited and 
a former Director of Wesley Research Institute, JK Tech and 
Queensland Energy Resources Limited. He is a Fellow of the 
Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.

Dr Thorne also holds directorships with a number of 
private companies.

He holds Bachelor and Doctoral degrees in Metallurgy from the 
University of Queensland and is a Graduate of the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors.

Dr Thorne lives on the Sunshine Coast.

T G HANDICOTT (55)
Independent Non‑executive Director since September 2016
Ms Handicott is a former corporate lawyer with over 30 years’ 
experience in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets and 
corporate governance. She was a partner of national law firm 
Corrs Chambers Westgarth for 22 years, serving as a member 
of its National Board for seven years including four years 
as National Chairman. She also has extensive experience in 
governance of local and state government organisations.

Ms Handicott is currently the Chairman of listed company 
PWR Holdings Limited and a Director of LGE Holding Company 
Pty Ltd trading as Peak Services, which is the subsidiary of the 
Local Government Association of Queensland that is responsible 
for its commercial operations. Ms Handicott is also a Director 
of Bangarra Dance Theatre Limited and a Divisional Councillor 
of the Queensland Division of the Australian Institute of 
Company Directors. 

Ms Handicott is a former Director of CS Energy Limited, a former 
member of the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) 
Council, the Takeovers Panel and Corporations and Markets 
Advisory Committee and a former Associate Member of the 
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

A Senior Fellow of Finsia and Member of the Australian Institute 
of Company Directors and Chief Executive Women, Ms Handicott 
holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) degree from the Queensland 
University of Technology.

Ms Handicott lives in Brisbane.

N M HOLLOWS (47)
Independent Non‑executive Director since June 2018
Ms Hollows has over 20 years’ experience in the resources 
sector in a number of senior managerial roles across both the 
public and private sectors, including in mining, utilities and rail. 
Her experience spans operational management, accounting 
and finance, mergers and acquisitions, capital management 
and corporate governance.

Ms Hollows is currently the Chief Executive Officer of SunWater 
Limited, a Queensland Government owned corporation. She is 
the Chair of The Salvation Army Brisbane Red Shield Appeal 
Committee and an advisory committee member of the Salvation 
Army Queensland Advisory Council and also a board member of 
the Water Services Association of Australia and a member of the 
CEO Advisory Committee for Dean of Queensland University of 
Technology Business School. 

She was formerly the Chief Financial Officer and subsequently 
Chief Executive Officer of Macarthur Coal Limited, Managing 
Director of AMCI Australia and South East Asia and Interim Chair 
of Queensland Rail Limited.

Annual Report 2018  3

Directors’ shareholdings

The following table sets out each Director’s relevant interest (direct and indirect) in shares, debentures, and rights or options in shares 
or debentures (if any) of the Company at the date of this report. No Director has any relevant interest in shares, debentures and rights 
or options in shares or debentures, of a related body corporate as at the date of this report.

Director

R M Harding
G A Fenn1
S A Chaplain
P S Garling
T G Handicott
N M Hollows
C G Thorne

Number of Fully Paid 
Ordinary Shares

Number of Fully Paid 
Performance Rights

Number of Fully Paid 
Performance Options

14,210
1,164,203
103,799
16,940
14,000
–
82,922

–
1,547,403
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

1 

Performance rights granted to Mr Fenn are subject to performance and/or service period conditions over the period 2015 to 2020. Further details regarding the conditions 
relating to these restricted shares and performance rights are outlined in sections 6.4 and 9.2 of the Remuneration Report.

Company Secretary

Review of operations

Principal Activities
Downer EDI Limited (Downer) is a leading provider of integrated 
services in Australia and New Zealand. Downer exists to create 
and sustain the modern environment and its promise is to work 
closely with its customers to help them succeed, using world 
leading insights and solutions to design, build and sustain 
assets, infrastructure and facilities. Downer employs about 
56,000 people, mostly in Australia and New Zealand but also 
in the Asia-Pacific region, South America and Southern Africa. 
Downer reports its results under six service lines and an outline 
of each service line is as follows:

The Company Secretarial function is responsible for ensuring that 
the Company complies with its statutory duties and maintains 
proper documentation, registers and records. It also provides 
advice to Directors and officers about corporate governance 
and gives practical effect to any decisions made by the Board.

Mr Peter Tompkins was appointed Company Secretary on 
27 July 2011. He has qualifications in law and commerce 
from Deakin University and corporate governance from the 
Governance Institute of Australia and is an admitted solicitor 
in New South Wales. Mr Tompkins joined Downer in 2008 
and was appointed General Counsel in 2010.

Mr Peter Lyons was appointed joint Company Secretary on 
27 July 2011. A member of CPA Australia and the Governance 
Institute of Australia, he has qualifications in commerce from 
the University of Western Sydney and corporate governance 
from the Governance Institute of Australia. Mr Lyons was 
previously Deputy Company Secretary and has been in 
financial and secretarial roles at Downer for over 15 years.

4  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Transport 
Transport comprises Downer’s road, transport infrastructure, 
bridge, airport and port businesses. It features a broad range 
of transport infrastructure services including earthworks, civil 
construction, asset management, maintenance, surfacing and 
stabilisation, supply of bituminous products and logistics, open 
space and facilities management and rail track signalling and 
electrification works. 

Total revenue1 (FY18)

EBITA2 (FY18)

22.3%

25.3%

Utilities 
The Utilities division provides complete lifecycle solutions 
to customers in the power, gas, water, renewable energy and 
communications sectors. 

Total revenue1 (FY18)

EBITA2 (FY18)

14.1%

16.8%

Transport

1   Total revenue is a non-statutory disclosure and includes revenue, other income 
and notional revenue from joint ventures and other alliances not proportionately 
consolidated. Due to rounding, divisional percentages do not add up precisely 
to 100%. 

2   Downer calculates EBITA by adjusting EBIT to add back acquired intangibles 

amortisation expense.

Road Services
Downer offers one of the largest non-government owned road 
infrastructure services businesses in Australia and New Zealand, 
maintaining more than 33,000 kilometres of road in Australia and 
more than 25,000 kilometres in New Zealand. 

Downer delivers a wide range of tailored pavement treatments 
and traffic control services and also provides high-level 
capabilities in strategic and tactical asset management, network 
planning and intelligent transport systems. The Company 
continues to invest in state-of-the-art technology to drive 
innovation and performance, including asphalt plants that use 
more recycled products and substantially less energy. 

Downer is also a leading manufacturer and supplier of bitumen 
based products and a provider of soil and pavement stabilisation, 
pressure injection stabilisation, pavement recycling, pavement 
profiling, spray sealing and asset management.

Downer’s Road Services customers include all of Australia’s 
State Road Authorities, the New Zealand Transport Agency and 
the majority of local government councils and authorities in 
both countries.

Other transport infrastructure
Other transport infrastructure includes rail construction, light rail 
construction, rail systems, transport mechanical and electrical 
construction, car park construction, airport pavements, port 
construction and associated maintenance services. 

Utilities 

1   Total revenue is a non-statutory disclosure and includes revenue, other income 
and notional revenue from joint ventures and other alliances not proportionately 
consolidated. Due to rounding, divisional percentages do not add up precisely 
to 100%. 

2   Downer calculates EBITA by adjusting EBIT to add back acquired intangibles 

amortisation expense.

Power and Gas
Downer offers customers a wide range of services including 
planning, designing, constructing, operating, maintaining, 
managing and decommissioning power and gas network assets. 

Downer maintains over 110,000 kilometres of electricity and 
gas networks across more than 185,000 square kilometres 
and connects tens of thousands of new power and gas 
customers each year for customers across all States of Australia 
and both islands in New Zealand. Downer also designs and 
constructs steel lattice transmission towers, designs and builds 
substations, and maintains large and complex power and gas 
reticulation networks. 

Customers include AusNet, ElectraNet, Transgrid, Powerco, 
Wellington Electricity and Powerlink.

Water
Downer provides complete water lifecycle solutions for municipal 
and industrial water users, with expertise including waste and 
waste water treatment, pumping and water transfer, desalination, 
water re-use, abstraction and dewatering. 

Downer supports its customers across the full asset lifecycle 
from the conceptual development of a project through design, 
construction, commissioning and optimisation. Downer 
purchased ITS Pipetech in March 2017 and its principal activities 
include pipe bursting, civil maintenance and robotics. Downer 
also operates and maintains treatment, storage, pump stations 
and network assets.

Customers include Auckland Council, Invercargill City Council, 
Logan City Council, Mackay Regional Council, Melbourne Water, 
Queensland Urban Utilities, Tauranga City Council, Yarra Valley 
Water, Wagga Wagga City Council, Watercare and Horowhenua 
Council (Alliance).

Annual Report 2018  5

Renewable energy
Downer is one of Australia’s largest and most experienced 
providers in the renewable energy market, offering design, build 
and maintenance services for wind farms and solar farms.

Infrastructure & Construction
Spotless provides M&E and HVAC services to customers in 
markets including health, education, commercial & industrial, 
defence, justice and transport. 

Its AE Smith and Nuvo businesses provide services across 
the asset lifecycle from design through to commissioning, fine-
tuning and maintenance to more than 2,000 commercial facilities 
in Australia and New Zealand. 

Key customers include Probuild, Watpac, Lendlease, John Holland, 
Crown Casino, Honeywell and Melbourne University.

Government
Spotless provides integrated facilities management, business 
process outsourcing, and operational support to a range of 
government customers.

Key customers include NSW Department of Education, Victorian 
Department of Education, SA Department of Planning, Transport 
and Infrastructure, SA Health, The Housing Authority of WA and 
Children’s Health Partnership.

Hospitality & Facilities Management
Spotless provides integrated facilities management services to 
customers in markets including aged care, education, healthcare, 
airports, business and industry, hospitality, retail, stadia, 
functions, and special events. 

Key customers include Melbourne Cricket Club, Virgin Airlines, 
Taronga Zoo, Brisbane City Hall, Emirates, and The Kings School.

Laundries
Spotless provides linen and garment services to social 
infrastructure, industry, accommodation and resources 
customers in Australia and New Zealand, with 16 laundries 
processing more than 100,000 tonnes of laundry a year.

Key customers include Ramsay Health, HealthScope, WA Health, 
SA Health, St John of God, and Inghams. 

Defence
Spotless delivers a range of facilities and asset management 
services for the Australian Government Department of Defence 
and the New Zealand Defence Force. These services include 
management services, cleaning and housekeeping, estate 
upkeep, pest and vermin control and treatment, reprographic 
services, sport and recreation, training area and range services, 
and transport and air operations.

Key customers include the Australian Department of Defence 
and NZ Defence Force. 

Downer offers the services required for the entire asset lifecycle 
including procurement, assembly, construction, commissioning 
and maintenance.

Communications
Downer provides an end-to-end infrastructure service 
offering comprising feasibility, design, civil construction, 
network construction, commissioning, testing, operations and 
maintenance across fibre, copper and radio networks in Australia 
and New Zealand. 

Customers include nbn™, Telstra, Chorus, Spark, 
Enable and Vodafone.

Spotless
Spotless operates in Australia and New Zealand and provides 
outsourced facility services, catering and laundry services, 
technical and engineering services, maintenance and 
asset management services and refrigeration solutions to 
various industries. 

Total revenue1 (FY18)

EBITA2 (FY18)

24.6%

29.6%

Spotless

1   Total revenue is a non-statutory disclosure and includes revenue, other income 
and notional revenue from joint ventures and other alliances not proportionately 
consolidated. Due to rounding, divisional percentages do not add up precisely 
to 100%. 

2   Downer calculates EBITA by adjusting EBIT to add back acquired intangibles 

amortisation expense.

Spotless employs about 36,000 people who deliver services 
to customers in a diverse range of industry sectors including: 
defence; education; government; healthcare; senior living; sports 
and venues; resources; leisure and hospitality; airports; industrial; 
commercial; property; utilities and public private partnerships. 

Spotless owns a number of businesses including AE Smith, 
Alliance, Asset Services, Ensign, EPICURE, Clean Event, Clean 
Domain, Mustard, Nuvo, Skilltech, Taylors, TGS, UAM and UASG.

Its customers include corporations and government 
departments, agencies and authorities at the Federal, State and 
Municipal level. 

6  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Rail
Downer is Australia’s leading provider of passenger rolling 
stock asset management services, delivering reliable and safe 
services to the fast-growing and dynamic public transport sector. 
Downer partners with its customers to deliver solutions across all 
transport domains including heavy rail, electric and diesel trains, 
light rail, bus and multi-modal transport solutions.

Total revenue1 (FY18)

EBITA2 (FY18)

9.3%

6.9%

Engineering, Construction and Maintenance (EC&M)
Downer works with customers in the public and private sectors 
delivering services including design, engineering, construction, 
maintenance and ongoing management of critical assets. 

The EC&M service line includes Hawkins, which Downer 
acquired in March 2017. Hawkins delivers a range of non-
residential building services across a variety of sectors.

Total revenue1 (FY18)

EBITA2 (FY18)

19.0%

12.5%

Rail

EC&M

1   Total revenue is a non-statutory disclosure and includes revenue, other income 
and notional revenue from joint ventures and other alliances not proportionately 
consolidated. Due to rounding, divisional percentages do not add up precisely 
to 100%. 

2   Downer calculates EBITA by adjusting EBIT to add back acquired intangibles 

amortisation expense.

Downer’s track record spans across project management 
services, engineering design, systems engineering, supply chain 
engagement, systems integration, manufacturing, logistics, 
testing, commissioning, asset management, fleet maintenance, 
rail infrastructure design and construction, and through-life-
support and operations.

In November 2017, Downer entered an agreement to sell its 
freight rail business to Progress Rail. The sale was completed 
on 2 January 2018.

The Keolis Downer joint venture is Australia’s largest private 
provider of multi-modal public transport solutions, with contracts 
to operate and maintain Yarra Trams in Melbourne, the Gold 
Coast light rail system in Queensland, and a new integrated 
public transport system for the city of Newcastle in NSW. 
Keolis Downer is also one of Australia’s most significant bus 
operators with operations in South Australia, Western Australia 
and Queensland. Keolis Downer provides more than 210 million 
passenger trips each year.

Downer’s Rail customers include Sydney Trains, Transport for 
NSW, Public Transport Authority (WA), Metro Trains Melbourne, 
Public Transport Victoria, and Queensland Rail.

Downer is currently working on the Sydney Growth Trains (SGT) 
project in New South Wales and the High Capacity Metro Trains 
(HCMT) project in Victoria.

1   Total revenue is a non-statutory disclosure and includes revenue, other income 
and notional revenue from joint ventures and other alliances not proportionately 
consolidated. Due to rounding, divisional percentages do not add up precisely 
to 100%. 

2   Downer calculates EBITA by adjusting EBIT to add back acquired intangibles 

amortisation expense.

Multi-disciplined teams project manage and self-execute a 
wide range of services for greenfield and brownfield projects 
across a range of industry sectors including: oil and gas; power 
generation; commercial / non-residential; iron ore; coal; and 
industrial materials. These services are delivered on complex 
resources and industrial sites as well as commercial operations 
with critical infrastructure requirements such as data centres, 
airport facilities and hospitals.

Downer supports customers across all stages of the project 
lifecycle with services including:
 – feasibility studies;
 – engineering design;
 – civil works;
 – structural, mechanical and piping;
 – electrical and instrumentation;
 – mineral process equipment design and manufacture;
 – commissioning;
 – maintenance;
 – shutdowns, turnarounds and outages;
 – strategic asset management; and
 – decommissioning.

Customers include Alcoa, Bechtel, BHP Billiton, Chevron, 
Newcrest, Orica, Origin Energy, Powerlink Queensland, Rio Tinto, 
Santos, Wesfarmers, Christchurch City and Auckland Councils, 
Auckland University, Auckland and Wellington Airports and the 
Ministry of Education in New Zealand.

Annual Report 2018  7

Mining
Downer is one of Australia’s leading diversified mining 
contractors serving its customers across more than 
50 sites in Australia, Papua New Guinea, South America and 
Southern Africa. 

Total revenue1 (FY18)

EBITA2 (FY18)

10.8%

8.9%

Mining

1   Total revenue is a non-statutory disclosure and includes revenue, other income 
and notional revenue from joint ventures and other alliances not proportionately 
consolidated. Due to rounding, divisional percentages do not add up precisely 
to 100%. 

2   Downer calculates EBITA by adjusting EBIT to add back acquired intangibles 

amortisation expense.

Downer’s Mining division generates its revenues primarily 
from open cut mining and blasting services, with contributions 
also from tyre management and underground mining. 
Downer supports its customers at all stages of the mining 
lifecycle including:
 – asset management;
 – blasting services, explosives manufacture and supply;
 – civil projects (mine site infrastructure);
 – crushing;
 – exploration drilling;
 – mine closure and mine site rehabilitation;
 – mobile plant maintenance;
 – open cut mining;
 – training and development for ATSI employees;
 – tyre management (through the subsidiary Otraco 

International); and
 – underground mining.

Customers include BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, Roy Hill Iron Ore, 
Glencore, Karara Mining, Millmerran Power Partners, Newmarket 
Gold, Newmont, Rio Tinto, Stanwell Corporation, OZ Minerals and 
Yancoal Australia.

Group Financial Performance
On 27 June 2017, the Group’s ownership interest in Spotless 
Group Holdings Limited (Spotless) exceeded 50%, requiring 
the consolidation of Spotless’ financial statements from that time. 
The Group’s offer for the remaining shares of Spotless closed 
on 28 August 2017. As a result of the acquisition, Downer owns 
87.8% of Spotless. The Group financial performance 
includes a full-year contribution from Spotless for the year 
ended 30 June 2018.

The main features of the result for the 12 months ended 
30 June 2018 were: 
 – Total revenue of $12.6 billion, up 61.5%;
 – Underlying earnings before interest, tax and amortisation of 

acquired intangible assets (EBITA) of $479.6 million, up 68.2% 
from $285.2 million; 

 – Statutory EBITA of $271.5 million, down from $285.2 million;
 – Statutory earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) of 

$204.8 million, down from $277.8 million;

 – Individually Significant Items (ISI) recognised in EBIT in the 

period of $208.1 million ($178.6 million after tax);

 – Underlying net profit after tax and before amortisation of 
acquired intangible assets (NPATA) of $296.5 million, up 
58.9% from $186.6 million;

 – Statutory NPATA of $117.9 million, down from 

$186.6 million; and

 – Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) of $71.1 million. 

During the period, the Group identified Individually Significant 
Items totalling $178.6 million after tax including: 
 – $76.4 million Mining goodwill impairment; 
 – $40.6 million loss on divestment of freight rail;
 – $17.5 million unsuccessful Auburn rail claim;
 – $20.0 million Divisional merger costs; and 
 – $24.1 million related to Spotless management redundancies, 

transaction costs and residual Strategy Reset costs. 

Details of the ISI are disclosed in Note B2(b) of the 
Financial Report.

8  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Revenue
Total revenue for the Group increased by $4.8 billion, or 61.5%, 
to $12.6 billion.

Transport revenue increased by 30.8% to $2.8 billion due to 
continuing strong performance by the Roads business in 
Australia and New Zealand, and ongoing investment in transport 
projects in Australia. 

Utilities revenue increased by 17.5% to $1.8 billion, due to 
continuing strong contributions from nbn™ contracts in Australia 
as well as new renewable energy projects. 

Spotless revenue for the 12 months was $3.1 billion. The major 
contributors to this result were Government-related contracts 
in the defence, health and education sectors, Public Private 
Partnerships (PPPs), construction projects and lifecycle 
maintenance contracts. 

Rail revenue increased by 37.5% to $1.2 billion driven by the 
Sydney Growth Trains and High Capacity Metro Trains projects 
as well as continued strong performance on the Waratah 
maintenance contract. This result was achieved despite the 
divestment of the freight rail business. A significant portion 
of the increase relates to pass-through revenue to the 
manufacturing construction partner on Sydney Growth Trains.

EC&M revenue increased by 19.9% to $2.4 billion as a result 
of increased activities on the Ichthys project in the Northern 
Territory and a full year contribution from Hawkins. This increase 
was partially offset by a reduction in activities on the Gorgon and 
Wheatstone projects in Western Australia. 

Mining revenue increased by 4.5% to $1.4 billion, mainly due to 
increased activities at Roy Hill and Goonyella and contributions 
from JVs and new contracts. These partially offset the 
completion of the Boggabri contract in the first half and the 
Christmas Creek contract in FY17. 

Expenses
Total expenses increased by 68.5% and include $208.1 million 
of Individually Significant Items (ISIs). Excluding these ISIs, total 
expenses increased 65.6% as explained below. 

Employee benefits expenses increased by 44.7%, or $1.2 billion, 
to $4.0 billion and represent 34.0% of Downer’s cost base. This 
increase is mainly due to Spotless’ contribution ($1.1 billion), 
higher activity across the Group and a more labour intensive 
contract base compared to the prior period. Included in 
employee expenses is $23.4 million of pre-tax ISIs in relation to 
divisional merger costs and Spotless transition-related costs as 
described in Note B2(b) in the Financial Report.

Subcontractor costs increased by $2.0 billion to $3.8 billion 
and represent 31.9% of Downer’s cost base. This increase is as 
a result of Spotless’ contribution ($1.1 billion), higher contract 
activities and the change in the subcontractor mix on some 
contracts during the period. 

Raw materials and consumables costs increased by 62.1% to 
$2.2 billion and represent 18.6% of Downer’s cost base. 
The increase is the net impact of raw material requirements for 
new projects (particularly in Transport, Utilities and Rail) and 
Spotless’ contribution ($421.8 million); partially offset by lower 
requirements as a result of the completion of contracts in Mining. 

Plant and equipment costs increased by 34.7% to $677.1 million 
and represent 5.7% of Downer’s cost base. This largely reflects 
the Spotless contribution and the increased activity in Transport. 
The lower increase in plant and equipment costs compared to 
other types of expenses reflects a less capital intensive business.

Depreciation and amortisation increased by 68.1% or 
$150.0 million to $370.2 million and represents 3.1% of Downer’s 
cost base. This increase is predominantly from Spotless’ 
contribution and from additional $59.3 million in amortisation 
on acquired intangible assets following several acquisitions, 
including Spotless. 

Other expenses, which include communication, travel, 
occupancy, professional fees costs and ISIs, have increased by 
86.0% to $788.5 million and represent 6.7% of Downer’s cost 
base. Included in other expenses is $184.7 million of pre-tax ISIs, 
comprising $76.4 million Mining impairment, $50.2 million from 
the divestment of freight rail, $25.0 million unsuccessful Auburn 
rail claim costs, $15.8 million divisional merger costs including 
surplus lease provision and asset write-offs and $17.3 million of 
transaction costs related to Spotless.

Annual Report 2018  9

Earnings
Underlying EBITA for the Group increased by 68.2% to $479.6 million, as a result of 12 months Spotless contribution and the increase 
in EBITA achieved by Transport, Utilities, Rail and EC&M, partially offset by Mining. Spotless’ EBITA contribution for the 12 months was 
$167.7 million. 

Underlying NPATA for the Group increased by 58.9% to $296.5 million.

Underlying NPAT for the Group increased by 37.6% to $249.7 million. 

Statutory NPAT for the Group was $71.1 million, including $178.6 million of ISIs. 

 A reconciliation of the underlying result to the statutory result is set out below.

FY18 
$m

Underlying result
Loss on divestment of freight rail
Mining goodwill impairment
Auburn Rail claim
Spotless integration costs
Spotless Management redundancies  
and integration costs
Spotless residual Strategy Reset costs
Divisional merger costs
Individually Significant Items

Statutory result

Net  
interest 
expense

Tax   
expense

(76.3)
–
–
–
–

(3.3)
(1.5)
–
(4.8)

(81.1)

(86.9)
9.6
–
7.5
2.0

3.0
3.7
8.5
34.3

(52.6)

EBIT

412.9
(50.2)
(76.4)
(25.0)
(7.3)

(9.4)
(11.3)
(28.5)
(208.1)

204.8

Add back: 
Amortisation 
of acquired 
intangible 
assets

46.8
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

46.8

NPAT

249.7
(40.6)
(76.4)
(17.5)
(5.3)

(9.7)
(9.1)
(20.0)
(178.6)

71.1

NPATA

296.5
(40.6)
(76.4)
(17.5)
(5.3)

(9.7)
(9.1)
(20.0)
(178.6)

117.9

Transport EBITA increased by 14.4% to $142.9 million due to continued strong performance across Australia and New Zealand and good 
progress on infrastructure projects in Australia.

Utilities EBITA increased by 12.7% to $94.8 million, driven by the strong performance from nbn™ contracts in Australia, as well as full year 
contributions from the acquisitions of UrbanGrid and ITS PipeTech.

Spotless’ underlying EBITA contribution was $167.7 million mainly driven by Government related contracts and PPPs.

Rail EBITA increased by 29.4% to $39.2 million, reflecting profit contributions from the SGT and HCMT projects (which made immaterial 
contributions in the prior period).

EC&M EBITA increased by 34.2% to $70.6 million due to 12 months’ contribution from Hawkins in New Zealand and the acquisitions 
of AGIS and Envista. There were strong performances on Australian gas projects and by the Operations Maintenance and Services 
business. The Mineral Technologies business increased revenue and returned to profitability during the year. 

Mining EBITA decreased by $33.0 million to $50.4 million predominantly due to the completion of contracts at Christmas 
Creek and Boggabri. 

Corporate costs increased by $9.3 million, or 12.1%, to $86.0 million mainly due to investment in governance and risk management 
functions following the acquisition of Spotless. 

Net finance costs increased by $54.3 million to $81.1 million due to $43.4 million additional interest from Spotless (nil in pcp), 
incremental interest incurred following the acquisition of an additional 22% interest in Spotless and lower interest income contribution.

The underlying effective tax rate is 25.8% which is lower than the statutory rate of 30.0% due to the impact of non-assessable R&D tax 
incentives, non-taxable distributions from joint ventures and lower overseas tax rates (e.g. New Zealand). The statutory effective tax 
rate is 42.5% mainly as a result of the impact of ISIs including non-deductible goodwill impairment associated with Mining.

10  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Divisional Financial Performance
Transport 

($m)

3,000

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

Revenue

EBITA margin

 – Total revenue of $2.8 billion, up 30.8%;
 – EBITA of $142.9 million, up 14.4%;
 – EBITA margin of 5.1%, down 0.7ppts;
 – ROFE1 of 24.2%, up from 22.2%; and
 – Work-in-hand of $7.4 billion.

Utilities 

($m)

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

Revenue

EBITA margin

 – Total revenue of $1,783.0 million, up 17.5%;
 – EBITA of $94.8 million, up 12.7%;
 – EBITA margin of 5.3%, down 0.2ppts;
 – ROFE1 of 26.1%, up from 22.7%; and
 – Work-in-hand of $3.4 billion.

Spotless 

($m)

3,500
3,000
2,500
2,000
1,500
1,000
500
0

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17*

FY18*

Revenue

EBITA margin

(%)

6.0

5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0

(%)

6.0

5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0

(%)

9.0

7.5

6.0

4.5

3.0

1.5

0.0

Rail

($m)

1,500

1,000

500

0

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

Revenue

EBITA margin

 – Total revenue of $1,169.2 million, up 37.5%;
 – EBITA of $39.2 million, up 29.4%;
 – EBITA margin of 3.4%, down 0.2ppts;
 – ROFE1 of 12.0%, up from 7.3%; and
 – Work-in-hand of $8.2 billion.

Engineering, Construction and Maintenance (EC&M)

($m)

3,000

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

Revenue

EBITA margin

 – Total revenue of $2.4 billion, up 19.9%;
 – EBITA of $70.6 million, up 34.2%;
 – EBITA margin of 2.9%, up 0.3ppts;
 – ROFE1 of 27.0%, up from 23.0%; and
 – Work-in-hand of $2.2 billion.

Mining

($m)

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

Revenue

EBITA margin

(%)

5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0

(%)

6.0

5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0

(%)

10.0

8.0

6.0

4.0

2.0

0.0

 – Total revenue of $3.1 billion, up 3.2%;
 – EBITA of $167.7 million, down 2.4%;
 – EBITA margin of 5.4%, down 0.3ppts;
 – ROFE1 of 14.1%, up from 12.1%; and
 – Work-in-hand of $18.0 billion.

 – Total revenue of $1.4 billion, up 4.5%;
 – EBITA of $50.4 million, down from $83.4 million;
 – EBITA margin of 3.7%, down from 6.4%;
 – ROFE1 of 8.6%, down from 13.2%; and
 – Work-in-hand of $2.8 billion.

 The FY17 and FY18 EBITA have been based on underlying performance.

*  
Note: Spotless past performance has been shown as a reference only as it has 
started contributing to the Downer Group from 1 July 2017 (FY18).

1 

ROFE = EBITA divided by average funds employed (AFE). AFE = Average 
Opening and Closing Net Debt + Equity.

Annual Report 2018  11

Group Financial Position 
Funding, liquidity and capital are managed at Group level, 
with Divisions focused on working capital and operating cash 
flow management.

Operating Cash Flow 
Operating cash flow was strong at $583.3 million, up 32.1% from 
last year due to strong contract performance, advance payments 
received and a full year contribution from Spotless. Operating 
cash flow / EBITDA conversion continued to be strong at 90.6%.

Investing Cash 
Total investing cash flow was $729.6 million, down $266.2 million. 
This includes $391.8 million consideration paid in relation to 
Spotless acquisition (including an additional 22% ownership 
interest) and a further $84.1 million in net cash consideration 
paid for other acquisitions including Envista, UrbanGrid and 
Cabrini. This was partially offset by $129.6 million proceeds 
received from the divestment of the freight rail business.

The business continued to invest in capital equipment 
to support the existing contracted operations and future 
operations, resulting in net capital expenditure of $334.1 million. 

Debt and Bonding
The Group’s performance bonding facilities totalled 
$1,915.9 million at 30 June 2018 primarily with $574.3 million 
undrawn. There is sufficient available capacity to support the 
ongoing operations of the Group.

As at 30 June 2018, the Group had liquidity of $1.5 billion 
comprising cash balances of $606.2 million and undrawn 
committed debt facilities of $925.0 million. Total liquidity 
available is $1.2 billion through Downer’s facilities and 
$321.2 million through Spotless’ facilities. 

The Group continues to be rated BBB (Stable) by Fitch Ratings.

Balance Sheet 
The net assets of Downer decreased by 10.6% to $3.2 billion.

Cash and cash equivalents decreased by $238.4 million, or 
28.2%, to $606.2 million, due to $391.8 million consideration paid 
in relation to Spotless acquisition (including an additional 22% 
ownership interest) and $84.1 million paid for other acquisitions. 
These payments were offset by $129.6 million proceeds received 
from the divestment of the freight rail business and from 
continued strong operating cash flows.

Net debt increased from $620.2 million at 30 June 2017 to 
$940.0 million at 30 June 2018 primarily as a result of a reduced 
net cash position. This resulted in an increase in gearing 
(net debt to net debt plus equity) to 22.7%, up from 14.7% 
at 30 June 2017. 

The present value of operating lease commitments for plant 
and equipment reduced from $151.5 million to $138.1 million. 
Total gearing (including off-balance sheet operating lease 
commitments) was 25.2% at 30 June 2018, up from 17.7% in 
the prior year.

Current trade and other receivables increased by $399.9 million 
to $2,121.9 million reflecting higher activities across Transport, 
Utilities and Mining. 

Inventories decreased by $32.9 million to $268.8 million 
reflecting the divestment of freight rail inventory coupled with 
continued tight inventory management. 

Current tax assets increased by $23.8 million to $69.3 million due 
to the timing of tax payments.

Interest in joint ventures and associates increased by 
$8.0 million, with $16.9 million of distributions received, offset by 
Downer’s share of net profits from joint ventures and associates 
of $25.1 million. 

Property Plant and Equipment remained consistent at 
$1,280.4 million as additional capital expenditure incurred during 
the year was offset by the divestment of freight rail assets and 
depreciation for the year including Spotless contribution.

Intangible assets increased by $19.5 million arising from 
$160.1 million additional goodwill and other acquired intangible 
assets recognised from the acquisition of Envista, UrbanGrid, 
Cabrini, Integrated Services and Hawkins; $46.4 million additional 
investment in software offset by a reduction in goodwill as a 
result of the Mining goodwill impairment ($76.4 million) and 
the divestment of freight rail ($14.2 million) and $91.9 million 
amortisation in FY18 mainly related to Spotless’ acquired 
intangible assets.

12  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Total trade and other payables increased by $516.4 million 
(28.8%) primarily as a result of higher business activity and 
timing of payments. Trade and other payables represent 
50.4% of Downer’s total liabilities.

Other financial liabilities of $77.4 million increased by $31.9 million 
and represents 1.7% of Downer’s total liabilities. The increase 
mainly reflects deferred consideration payable for acquisitions 
made during the year.

Deferred tax liability of $170.2 million primarily represents 
temporary differences arising from work in progress, property 
plant and equipment, and the tax effect of the recognition of 
acquired intangibles.

Provisions of $490.5 million decreased by $36.4 million and 
represent 10.7% of Downer’s total liabilities. Employee provisions 
(annual leave and long service leave) made up 76.4% of this 
balance with the remainder covering surplus lease contracts 
provisions and return conditions obligations for leased assets 
and property and warranty obligations.

Shareholder equity decreased by $381.4 million driven by the 
payment for the acquisition of additional interest in Spotless and 
the impact of minority interest, and $156.7 million of dividend 
payments made during the year. This was offset by the parent 
entity net profit after tax of $71.4 million. Net foreign currency 
losses on translation of foreign operations, particularly in 
New Zealand, resulted in a movement in the foreign currency 
translation reserve by $8.8 million.

Dividends
The Downer Board resolved to pay a final dividend of 14.0 cents 
per share, 50% franked (12.0 cents per share fully franked in the 
prior corresponding period), payable on 27 September 2018 to 
shareholders on the register at 30 August 2018. The unfranked 
portion of the dividend (50%) will be paid out of Conduit 
Foreign Income (CFI).

The Board also determined to continue to pay a fully imputed 
dividend on the ROADS security, which having been reset on 
15 June 2018 has a yield of 6.15% per annum payable quarterly 
in arrears, with the next payment due on 17 September 2018. 
As this dividend is fully imputed (the New Zealand equivalent of 
being fully franked), the actual cash yield paid by Downer will be 
4.43% per annum for the next 12 months.

Zero Harm
Downer’s Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) increased 
from 0.55 to 0.78 but importantly, the Total Recordable 
Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR) reduced from 3.50 to 3.27 per 
million hours worked. 

Downer Group Safety Performance 
(12-month rolling frequency rates)

R
F
T
L

I

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0.0

3.50 

0.55 

7
1
-
n
u
J

7
1
-
p
e
S

7
1
-
c
e
D

8
1
-
r
a
M

LTIFR

TRIFR

Note: This data excludes Hawkins and Spotless.

4.0

3.5

I

R
F
R
T

3.27

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.78 

8
1
-
n
u
J

Annual Report 2018  13

Group Business Strategies and Prospects for Future Financial Years
Downer’s strategy focuses on safety, driving improvement in existing businesses, investing in growth, and creating new positions. 
Downer’s strategic objectives, prospects, and the risks that could adversely affect the achievement of these objectives, are set out in 
the table below. 

Strategic Objective

Prospects 

Risks and risk management

Maintain 
focus on Zero Harm 

Improve value and 
service for customers 
and their customers

Improve asset 
management and data 
analytics utilisation 
across the Group

Downer recognises that a sustainable and 
embedded Zero Harm culture is fundamental to 
the Company’s future success. 
Zero Harm means working in an environment 
that supports the health and safety of its people, 
allows it to deliver its business activities in an 
environmentally sustainable manner, and advances 
the communities in which it operates.
This requires strong commitment to Downer’s Zero 
Harm objectives from all levels of the business. 
Downer’s Zero Harm culture is built on leading 
and inspiring, managing risk, rethinking processes, 
applying lessons learnt, and adopting and adapting 
practices that aim to achieve zero work-related 
injuries and minimise environmental harm.

Providing valuable and reliable products and 
services to Downer’s customers, and their 
customers, is at the very heart of Downer’s culture. 
It enables Downer’s customers to focus more on 
their core expertise while Downer delivers non-
core operational services. 
Through ongoing analysis of markets, customers 
and competitors, Downer is well positioned to 
improve value and service for its customers and 
their customers. 

The ISO 55001 standard sets a new baseline for 
professional asset management across most 
of the markets in which Downer operates. As a 
leader in asset management, Downer aims to 
adopt and implement world leading solutions 
and insights to benefit its customers and their 
customers. Additionally, the proliferation of data 
points and connected devices, allows for greater 
data and business intelligence to be captured and 
monitored. This is key to driving greater levels of 
efficiency as well as service improvements. 

Downer’s approach to Zero Harm enables the 
Company to work safely and environmentally 
responsibly in industry sectors where there are 
inherent hazardous environments.
Downer has implemented a strong critical risk 
program throughout its business. This program has 
provided Downer with the opportunity to understand 
the risks in its business that could cause serious 
injury to people or the environment. That knowledge 
has enabled Downer to implement a program to 
eliminate or control those risks, and to monitor the 
performance of those critical controls. 
Each Downer Division has in place a Zero Harm 
management system, certified as a minimum to 
AS/NZS 4801 or BS OHSAS 18001, and ISO 14001. 
Each management system is reviewed regularly, 
undergoing internal and external audit.
Relationships creating success continues to be 
Downer’s core operating philosophy that drives 
delivery of projects and services. It helps to ensure 
investment, initiatives and activities are focused on 
helping the Group’s customers to succeed. Risks to be 
managed include:
 – commoditisation of core products and services, 

which affects margins;  

 – not keeping pace with changing customer 
expectations for service improvements; and
 – lack of focus on customer feedback channels.
Customers and end users’ expectations continue 
to grow with regard to reliable, intuitive, and 
cost-effective assets and services. Investments 
are required into asset management and 
data analytics frameworks to ensure lifecycle 
performance is monitored and timely decisions 
are made to optimise asset utilisation. Risks to be 
managed include:
 – lack of value added services to customers 

reducing their need for integrated 
services partners; 

 – reduction in scope and service from customers 
to pure maintenance / blue collar services; and

 – inability to properly manage performance 

frameworks and desired service outcomes. 

14  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Strategic Objective

Prospects 

Risks and risk management

Position for greater  
government  
outsourcing 

Leverage opportunities 
that will emerge from 
greater urbanisation 
in major cities

Orient Downer’s 
portfolio to growth 
markets

Embed operational 
technology into core 
service offerings

Following the acquisition of Spotless, Downer is 
the largest and most diverse services contractor 
in the Asia-Pacific region with over $12 billion in 
annual revenues. This scale and breadth gives 
Downer greater resilience to withstand economic 
headwinds when they arise, and the opportunity to 
provide a more diverse range of services.
Downer is well positioned to pursue government 
outsourcing opportunities in the Australian and 
New Zealand markets now and into the future. 

As cities become larger and more complex, 
opportunities will emerge for Downer in 
connecting, managing and monitoring 
their core infrastructure. This will include 
transport infrastructure, public transport, 
utilities, telecommunications, and other 
technology platforms. 
Downer is well positioned to work with 
governments and citizens to understand and 
shape the infrastructure and networks that will 
underpin the megacities of the future.
Downer continues to enjoy wide reaching access 
to substantial asset management, projects, and 
services opportunities in its core geographies 
of Australia and New Zealand. While these 
geographies will remain the core focus for 
the foreseeable future, Downer continues to 
investigate and pursue identified and evaluated 
opportunities in Southern Africa, South America, 
North America, Europe, and Asia. 

Downer is focused on increasing the utilisation 
of operational technology across all its service 
lines to improve differentiation and competitive 
advantage. This includes investing in partnerships 
with global technology experts, co-creating 
bespoke products and services to meet 
customer needs, and investigating selective M&A 
opportunities to improve the quality of the Group’s 
service offering. 

Government outsourcing provides a high level 
of opportunity for Downer as government fiscal 
demands increase and citizens desire more service 
from less spend. Risks to be managed include:
 – longer procurement contract durations reducing 
opportunities to tender for new opportunities; 
 – commoditisation of long-term contracts; and 
 – introduction of foreign and technology 

based competitors that bring a different 
value proposition.

Greater urbanisation is likely to result in a 
consolidation of competition, opportunities, and 
capital. Risks to be managed include:
 – intensification of competition as customers 

converge into large single market 
procurement channels;

 – introduction of foreign and technology based 
competitors that bring a different value 
proposition; and

 – greater investment in technology.

Downer continues to review the current shape of 
its service offerings as well as the exportability of a 
number of established and mature service offerings 
which have reached leadership in the Group’s core 
markets. Risks to be managed include: 
 – balancing growth objectives against sustainable 

profit outcomes; and

 – determining the optimal timing to export core 
competencies to new growth markets or to 
further diversify Downer’s offering. 
Downer has opportunities to invest in new 
skills to manage the risks that will emerge from 
technological advancements. These risks include: 
 – market disruption;
 – cybersecurity and data hacks as more 
assets and infrastructure networks are 
managed remotely; and

 – switching costs associated with technological 

infrastructure and networks.

Annual Report 2018  15

The following table provides an overview of the key prospects relevant to each of Downer’s service lines and summarises Downer’s 
intended strategic response across each sector to maximise the Company’s performance and realise future opportunities.

Prospects 

Downer’s response 

The market for transport infrastructure and 
services continues to exhibit good growth in 
both Australia and New Zealand, as respective 
governments invest in a range of projects to 
reduce congestion, improve mobility, and provide 
better linkages between communities. 
In both Australia and New Zealand, Downer is 
noticing a shift toward greater network integration, 
journey management, and multi-modal solutions. 
This is seeing not only a convergence between 
transport modes but also between industries like 
transport and energy. Two-way digital methods 
of communication with passengers in real-time is 
proliferating in the transport sector.

Growth across power and gas utility markets is 
multi-faceted with a good pipeline of prospects 
in both Australia and New Zealand. In Australia, 
growth will be driven by prospects in electricity 
transmission and distribution, as well as significant 
new capital projects in the renewable energy 
market. In New Zealand, increasing demand from 
a growing population is seeing higher levels of 
activity across the water and power & gas sectors.
Activity in telecommunications markets continues 
to be dynamic, with large capital builds in both 
Australia and New Zealand coming to a close. 
Downer’s view is that the timing of these large 
network builds will extend beyond most analysts’ 
predictions. However, increasing demand for data 
services will see a solid baseload of activity in this 
sector remains. 
The manufacture and associated servicing of 
rail rolling stock continues to be a strong growth 
market for Downer. Major procurement activities 
have been undertaken in Queensland, NSW and 
Victoria in recent years, with the resulting volume 
of work continuing to permeate the market. 
Looking forward, potential outsourcing and 
franchising opportunities across the transport 
sector may further expand Downer’s portfolio in 
public transport operations. 

As a market leader in Australia and New Zealand, 
Downer is well positioned to capitalise on future 
transport opportunities. In particular, focus will be 
upon the markets for road maintenance services, 
road surfacing and bitumen supply, rail infrastructure 
delivery, and public transport operations. 
Downer continues to innovate across its core service 
offerings, to ensure it brings to customers global 
insights and competitively benchmarked solutions. 
It also continues to selectively acquire scale where 
this creates value for shareholders.
Downer is particularly focused on transport issues 
which affect communities like congestion, parking 
management, transport integration, and value capture 
from associated developments. 
Downer has market leading positions in the electricity, 
water, gas and telecommunications sectors in both 
Australia and New Zealand. 
Downer is strongly positioned to take advantage of 
the growth opportunities available in these sectors, 
with a demonstrable track record of excellence in 
service delivery, and a greater focus on introducing 
operational technology to improve the value Downer 
brings to customers. 
In addition to maximising its share of the outsourced 
‘poles and wires’ services market, the business is 
focused on growing the national water sector and 
participating in new construction, maintenance, and 
operations contracts.

Downer’s rail asset management model is a clear 
market leader with a strong focus on ‘return on 
investment’ – i.e. increasing fleet availability and 
reliability for customers’ customers. 
Downer maintains strong strategic partnerships with 
leading global transport solutions providers and, 
through this model, is pursuing opportunities in rolling 
stock manufacture and maintenance, and transport 
network operations and maintenance.
The Keolis Downer joint venture is a leading 
Australian multi-modal transport operator, through its 
light rail and bus operations.

Service line

Transport

Utilities

Rail

16  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Service line

EC&M

Mining

Spotless

Prospects 

Downer’s response 

Downer is a market leader in electrical and 
instrumentation work, particularly in the oil & gas 
sector, and is growing its structural mechanical piping 
business. Downer has experience working on all of the 
recent Australian major oil & gas developments. While 
the first phase of major LNG construction comes 
to an end, Downer does envisage the potential for 
additional trains to be constructed in the near future 
due to the improving productivity of gas extraction at 
these facilities. 
Outside of oil & gas, Downer continues to be a major 
player in the delivery of resources related engineering, 
construction and maintenance services with long and 
enduring relationships with all of Australia’s major 
mining and industrial customers. 
Downer increased its presence in the growing market 
for infrastructure and building in New Zealand 
through the acquisition of Hawkins, the country’s 
second-largest builder. 
Downer is one of Australia’s leading diversified 
mining contractors offering customers open cut, 
underground, mining services, tyre management, drill 
and blast, and engineering and technology services. 
A core focus is to drive efficiency in the way Downer 
delivers services to ensure it creates value for 
its customers. 

Through the acquisition of Spotless, Downer is now 
a major force in both Australia and New Zealand with 
market leading positions across key sectors including: 
defence; health; education; corrections; commercial; 
stadia and open space management; leisure; 
and resources. 
There is a focus on leveraging both businesses’ scale 
and routes to market to position the Group’s core 
services offerings in an integrated way. 

EC&M comprises resources-related 
infrastructure, infrastructure projects, and non-
residential building. 
Resources-related infrastructure is showing green 
shoots of growth for the first time in a long period. 
Downer expects this investment to largely focus 
on brownfield expansions with relatively few new 
greenfield developments. 
Good growth prospects in the non-residential 
building and commercial sector are expected as 
business confidence remains high in both Australia 
and New Zealand, while investment into social 
infrastructure continues with particular focus on 
health and education. 

While mine owners continue to have a strong 
focus on cost reduction, Downer is seeing green 
shoots of growth particularly in Western Australia 
across iron ore, gold and other precious metals. 
Some mine owners are currently shifting their 
operating models to maximise supply chain 
benefits, which opens opportunities for contractors 
to work collaboratively to drive productivity 
improvements and reduce production costs.
The facilities management and services market 
is undergoing consolidation, as operators look 
to leverage scale across multiple service lines. 
Downer and Spotless continue to see large-scale 
and long-term outsourcing contracts come to 
market across the government sector, however 
the volume of PPPs in social infrastructure and 
integrated services contracts in the resources 
sector appears to be slowing.
The proliferation of operational technology to 
enable real-time performance monitoring is 
shaping the future of outsourcing, leading to 
bundling services and the provision of ‘anything 
as a service’. 
The defence, health, education, corrections, and 
commercial markets continue to provide a range 
of exciting opportunities on the short-to-medium 
term horizon in both Australia and New Zealand. 

Annual Report 2018  17

The international environmental standard ISO 14001:2015, is 
used as a benchmark for assessing, improving and maintaining 
the environmental integrity of our business management 
systems. The Company’s Divisions also adhere to environmental 
management requirements established by customers in addition 
to all applicable licence and regulatory requirements.

Dividends

In respect of the financial year ended 30 June 2018, the Board:
 – declared a 50% franked interim dividend of 13.0 cents per 
share that was paid on 4 April 2018 to shareholders on the 
register at 7 March 2018 with the unfranked portion paid out 
of Conduit Foreign Income; and

 – declared a 50% franked final dividend of 14.0 cents per 

share, payable on 27 September 2018 to shareholders on the 
register at 30 August 2018 with the unfranked portion to be 
paid out of Conduit Foreign Income. 

Due to the strength of Downer’s balance sheet, the Company’s 
Dividend Reinvestment Plan remains suspended.

As detailed in the Directors’ Report for the 2017 financial year, 
the Board declared a fully franked final dividend of 12.0 cents 
per share, that was paid on 10 October 2017 to shareholders 
on the register at 12 September 2017.

Outlook

Downer is targeting consolidated net profit after tax and 
before amortisation of acquired intangible assets (NPATA) of 
$335 million before minority interests.

Subsequent events

There have been no matters or circumstances other than those 
referred to in the financial statements or notes thereto, that have 
arisen since the end of the financial year, that have 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.

Changes in state of affairs

During the financial year there was no significant change 
in the state of affairs of the Group other than that referred 
to in the financial statements or notes thereto.

Environmental

Downer makes a positive contribution in industry sectors such 
as utilities, renewable energy, public transport, infrastructure 
and facilities management. Downer recognises it also operates 
in highly carbon-intensive industry sectors, for example, mining. 
Downer’s strategy focuses on driving improvement in existing 
businesses, investing in sustainable growth, and adapting 
as industry and customer needs and preferences change. 
Downer’s business diversity allows it to leverage emerging 
opportunities such as increasing and ageing populations, 
infrastructure renewal requirements and the increased need for 
inter-connected smart cities and regional city hubs.

Downer recognises its obligation to stakeholders, including 
customers, shareholders, employees, contractors and the 
communities in which it operates, to advance sustainability 
and mitigate the Company’s environmental impact. Downer 
acknowledges its role as a corporate citizen, and respects the 
places and communities in which it operates. Downer’s Purpose, 
Promise and Pillars underpin everything it does and Downer 
is committed to conducting its operations in a manner that is 
environmentally responsible and sustainable.

The Board oversees the Company’s environmental and 
sustainability performance via the Zero Harm Board Committee. 
The Zero Harm Management System Framework sets the 
minimum standard for environment and sustainability within 
the Divisions. As such, each Division is required to have an 
Environmental Sustainability Action Plan (ESAP) and strategies 
in place supported by suitably qualified environment and 
sustainability professionals. The ESAP allocates internal 
responsibilities for reducing the impact of its operations and 
business activities on the environment. In addition, all Downer 
Divisions’ environment management systems are audited by 
both internal and external independent third parties.

18  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Employee Discount Share Plan (ESP)

An ESP was instituted in June 2005. In accordance with the provisions of the plan, as approved by shareholders at the 1998 Annual 
General Meeting, permanent full-time and part-time employees of Downer EDI Limited and its subsidiary companies who have 
completed six months service may be invited to participate.

No shares were issued under the ESP during the years ended 30 June 2018 or 30 June 2017.

There are no performance rights or performance options, in relation to unissued shares, that are outstanding.

Directors’ meetings

The following table sets out the number of Directors’ meetings (including meetings of Board Committees) held during the 2018 financial 
year and the number of meetings attended by each Director (while they were a Director or Board Committee member). During the year, 
22 Board meetings, seven Audit and Risk Committee meetings, five Zero Harm Committee meetings, four Remuneration Committee 
meetings and three Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee meetings were held. In addition, 28 ad hoc meetings (attended 
by various Directors) were held in relation to various matters including tender reviews and major projects.

Director
R M Harding
G A Fenn
S A Chaplain
P S Garling2
T G Handicott3
N M Hollows
E A Howell
C G Thorne4

Director
R M Harding
G A Fenn
S A Chaplain
P S Garling2
T G Handicott3
N M Hollows
E A Howell
C G Thorne4

Board

Audit and Risk  
Committee

Remuneration  
Committee

Held1
22
22
22
22
22
1
12
22

Attended
21
22
20
21
21
1
12
21

Held1
–
–
7
7
7
1
–
7

Attended
–
–
7
7
7
1
–
7

Held1
4
–
–
4
4
–
–
–

Attended
4
–
–
4
4
–
–
–

Zero Harm 
Committee

Nominations and 
Corporate Governance 
Committee

Held1
–
5
5
–
–
–
5
5

Attended
–
4
5
–
–
–
5
5

Held1
3
–
3
–
3
–
–
–

Attended
3
–
3
–
3
–
–
–

These columns indicate the number of meetings held during the period each person listed was a Director or member of the relevant Board Committee.

1 
2  Mr Garling is also Chairman of the Rail Projects Committee.
3  Ms Handicott is also Chairman of the Disclosure Committee which meets on an unscheduled basis.
4  Dr Thorne is also Chairman of the Tender Risk Evaluation Committee which meets on an unscheduled basis.

Annual Report 2018  19

Indemnification of officers and auditors

During the financial year, the Company paid a premium in 
respect of a contract insuring the Directors of the Company, the 
Company Secretary, and all officers of the Company and of any 
related body corporate against a liability incurred as a Director, 
secretary or executive officer to the extent permitted by the 
Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

The contract of insurance prohibits disclosure of the nature 
of the liability and the amount of the premium.

Downer’s Constitution includes indemnities, to the extent 
permitted by law, for each Director and Company Secretary 
of Downer and its subsidiaries against liability incurred in the 
performance of their roles as officers. The Directors and the 
Company Secretaries listed on pages 2 to 4, individuals who act 
as a Director or Company Secretary of Downer’s subsidiaries 
and certain individuals who formerly held any of these roles 
also have the benefit of the indemnity in the Constitution.

The Company has not otherwise, during or since the financial 
year, indemnified or agreed to indemnify an officer or auditor of 
the Company or of any related body corporate against a liability 
incurred as such an officer or auditor.

Corporate Governance

In recognising the need for the highest standards of corporate 
behaviour and accountability, the Board endorses the ASX 
Corporate Governance Council’s Corporate Governance 
Principles and Recommendations (ASX Principles). The Group’s 
corporate governance statement is set out at pages 127 to 135 
of this Annual Report.

The Directors are of the opinion that the services as disclosed 
below do not compromise the external auditor’s independence, 
based on advice received from the Audit and Risk Committee, 
for the following reasons:

 – All non-audit services have been reviewed and approved 
to ensure that they do not impact the integrity and 
objectivity of the auditor; and

 – None of the services undermine the general principles 

relating to auditor independence as set out in the Institute 
of Chartered Accountants in Australia and CPA Australia’s 
Code of Conduct APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional 
Accountants issued by the Accounting Professional & Ethical 
Standards Board, including reviewing or auditing the auditor’s 
own work, acting in a management or decision-making 
capacity for the Company, acting as advocate for the 
Company or jointly sharing economic risks and rewards.
A copy of the auditor’s independence declaration is set out on 
page 52 of this Annual Report.

During the year, details of the fees paid or payable for non-audit 
services provided by the auditor of the parent entity, its related 
practices and related audit firms were as follows:

Non-audit services

Tax services
Sustainability assurance
Due diligence and other 
non-audit services

2018
$

556,106
278,634

2017
$

719,955
217,000

950,457
1,785,197

1,066,814
2,003,769

Non-audit services

Rounding of amounts

The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Corporations 
(Rounding in Financial/Directors’ reports) Instrument 2016/191, 
relating to the “rounding off” of amounts in the Directors’ Report 
and consolidated financial statements. Unless otherwise stated, 
amounts have been rounded off to the nearest whole number 
of millions of dollars and one place of decimals representing 
hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Downer is committed to audit independence. The Audit and 
Risk Committee reviews the independence of the external 
auditors on an annual basis. This process includes confirmation 
from the auditors that, in their professional judgement, they are 
independent of the Group. To ensure that there is no potential 
conflict of interest in work undertaken by Downer’s external 
auditors, KPMG, they may only provide services that are 
consistent with the role of the Company’s auditor.

The Board has considered the position and, in accordance with 
the advice from the Audit and Risk Committee, is satisfied that 
the provision of non-audit services during the year is compatible 
with the general standard of independence for auditors imposed 
by the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

20  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Remuneration Report – AUDITED

Chairman’s letter

Dear Shareholders,

Downer’s 2018 Remuneration Report provides information about 
the remuneration of its most senior executives and explains how 
performance has been linked to reward outcomes at Downer for 
the 2018 financial year. 

At the last Annual General Meeting in November 2017, 
93.2 percent of all votes cast by shareholders were in favour 
of the 2017 Remuneration Report. The structure of the 
2018 Remuneration Report has been prepared with the same 
objective of providing readers with a transparent view of key 
performance and outcomes using the report structure adopted 
in previous years. 

Strong financial and safety performance
Downer has once again delivered strong financial and 
safety performance in 2018 and has continued to deliver 
on its promises:
 – Total Revenue was $12,620.2 million, an increase of 

61.5 percent from 2017;

 – Underlying Net Profit After Tax and before Amortisation 
of acquired intangibles was $296.5 million, an increase 
of $1.5 million over underlying guidance given at the 
start of the year;

 – Conversion of EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, 

depreciation and amortisation) to cash continued to be 
strong at 90.6 percent;

 – Work-in-hand is now $42.0 billion, up 7.1 percent from 

December 2017; and

 – Downer’s Total Shareholder Return over the three years to 

30 June 2018 was 85.1 percent, 43.5 percent higher than the 
ASX 100 median.

Downer’s Zero Harm performance continues to be industry 
leading. Downer’s Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate was 0.78 and 
the Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate was 3.27. Many of the 
activities that Downer’s people perform every day are inherently 
dangerous and ensuring they remain safe is of paramount 
importance. Zero Harm is central to Downer’s culture and our 
commitment to continuous improvement in Zero Harm remains a 
core strategic objective. 

Key remuneration issues in 2018
Downer continued to invest in its future through strategic 
acquisitions and capital investments that have enhanced the 
geographic footprint of the existing business, grown capability 
and created new market positions which will maximise long term 
shareholder value. These include the acquisitions of Envista, 
Integrated Services, UrbanGrid and Cabrini Linen Service. 

Downer also divested the Freight Rail business. The restructuring 
of Spotless and the integration of the Spotless business into the 
Downer Group has also been a major activity during 2018. 

The impact of these major transactions on executive 
remuneration can be significant. The Board’s overarching 
concern is to ensure executives:
 – Are accountable for delivery of the annual budget and 

business plan; and

 – Consider potential acquisition or divestment 

opportunities without the influence of their impact on 
remuneration outcomes.

For these and other reasons, where a transaction is both material 
and unbudgeted, the Board’s policy is that it should remove the 
impact of the transaction when calculating the key performance 
indicators on which executive performance is measured. 
This ensures that executives are ‘no better or worse off’ as a 
result of the transaction. 

There were three significant items in 2018 which affected 
statutory earnings being:
 – A non-cash impairment of goodwill in the mining business;
 – Major restructures to merge the Mining Division with the 

Engineering, Construction and Maintenance Division to form 
the new Mining, Energy and Industrial Services Division and 
merger of the Rail Division into the Infrastructure Services 
Division to form the Transport and Infrastructure Division to 
ensure that our service offerings best align with the needs of 
our customers; and

 – Remediation of ground subsidence at the Auburn (Waratah) 

Maintenance Centre. 

The Board considers whether to adjust for the impact of 
significant items (positive or negative) on a case by case basis, 
having regard to the circumstances relevant to each item.

In 2018, adjustments were made in respect of the major 
transactions in line with policy, major restructures and the Mining 
goodwill impairment. No adjustment was made for the Auburn 
Maintenance Centre remediation. The adjustments that were 
made ensured that executives were rewarded for performance 
against the operational performance targets set at the beginning 
of the year absent the influence of remuneration outcomes. 
The adjustments resulted in the Group gateway being met 
which opened the Corporate scorecard and part achievement 
of the Corporate Net Profit after Tax and Before Amortisation of 
acquired intangibles measure but for other measures had no or 
an immaterial impact on reward outcomes.

More information on the Board’s approach to the above activities 
and their impact in 2018 can be found at sections 6.5 and 7.4 of 
the Remuneration Report.

Annual Report 2018  21

Link between Downer performance and reward outcomes
Downer is one of the few companies in its sector that provides 
earnings guidance to the market each year. Downer has been 
successful in meeting or exceeding this earnings guidance 
for the last seven reporting periods. Downer’s remuneration 
framework for key senior employees has been very successful 
in aligning Downer’s strategy and the creation of alignment 
between senior executives and shareholders. As set out in 
this Remuneration Report, Downer’s remuneration strategy 
continues to provide:
 – A significant proportion of remuneration being at risk linked 

to clear, objective measures;

 – A profitability gateway as a precondition to any short term 

incentive entitlement;

 – For deferral of 50 percent of short term incentive payments 

over a further two year period; and

 –  The delivery of a significant proportion of pay in equity.

To ensure that this framework continues to support the 
achievement of Downer’s strategy, a review has commenced 
with outcomes to be communicated in next year’s 
Remuneration Report.

We trust that this overview and the accompanying detailed 
analysis are helpful when forming your own views on Downer’s 
remuneration arrangements.

R M Harding 
Chairman 

T G Handicott 
Remuneration Committee Chairman

22  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018 
The Remuneration Report provides information about the remuneration arrangements for key management personnel (KMP), which 
means Non-executive Directors and the Group’s most senior executives, for the year to 30 June 2018. The term “executive” in this 
Report means KMPs who are not Non-executive Directors.

The Report covers the following matters:
1.  Year in review;
2.  Details of Key Management Personnel;
3.  Remuneration policy, principles and practices;
4.  Relationship between remuneration policy and company performance;
5.  The Board’s role in remuneration;
6.  Description of executive remuneration;
7.  Details of executive remuneration;
8.  Executive equity ownership;
9.  Key terms of employment contracts;
10.  Related party information; and
11.  Description of Non-executive Director remuneration.

1.  Year in review

1.1  Summary of changes to remuneration policy
Downer has continued to refine its remuneration policy during the period. The Board considered Company strategy and reward plans 
based on performance measurement, competitive position and stakeholder feedback. Changes to policy are noted in the relevant 
sections of this Report and are summarised in the table below. 

Policy

Enhancements since 2017

Short-term incentive (STI) plan

 – The Zero Harm measures for safety and environmental performance have been 
further refined, building upon previous improvements to move with and support 
growth in organisational maturity and ensure continual stretch and ongoing Zero Harm 
improvement through:
 – Requiring the completion of trend analysis on the outcomes of completed critical control 
verifications to identify the existence of ineffective controls and escalation factors, 
thereby further improving the understanding of the control environment; and

 – Initiating a program of projects to improve the effectiveness of critical controls, informed 

by the trend analysis on the outcomes of completed critical risk observations.
 – The Financial measures for earnings have evolved from Net Profit After Tax (NPAT) to Net 
Profit After Tax and Before Amortisation of acquired intangibles (NPATA) at the Group 
level and Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) to Earnings Before Interest, Tax and 
Amortisation of acquired intangibles (EBITA) at the Divisional level to ensure that reward 
remains focused on the delivery of operational performance.

 – As with 2017, the People measure is based on the outcomes of a Company-wide 

employee engagement survey. In 2018, the targets were adjusted to create additional 
stretch which reflects the Company’s increased maturity in this area and to ensure 
continuous improvement.

Annual Report 2018  23

1.2  Remuneration Framework Review
Downer’s current remuneration framework was established in 2008 and has been developed and refined over the subsequent years. 

In recent years, Downer has undergone transformational change in becoming Australia’s largest integrated services provider, including 
through the acquisitions of Tenix, Hawkins and Spotless as well as the divestment of the Century Drilling and Freight Rail businesses 
and its revenue and market capitalisation have grown significantly.

Accordingly, the Board, with the support of management, determined that it was timely and appropriate to review whether the 
framework currently in place continues to be ‘fit for purpose’ for today’s Downer. 

Guerdon Associates has been engaged to assist the Board with this review. A summary of outcomes of the review and any changes to 
the remuneration framework will be provided in the 2019 Remuneration Report.

2.  Details of Key Management Personnel

The following persons acted as Directors of the Company during or since the end of the most recent financial year: 

Director

Role

R M Harding
G A Fenn
S A Chaplain
P S Garling
N M Hollows
T G Handicott 
E A Howell
C G Thorne

Chairman, Independent Non-executive Director
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer
Independent Non-executive Director
Independent Non-executive Director
Independent Non-executive Director, from 19 June 2018
Independent Non-executive Director
Independent Non-executive Director, to 2 November 2017
Independent Non-executive Director

The named persons held their current executive position for the whole of the most recent financial year, except as noted:  

Executive

S Cinerari

M J Ferguson
S L Killeen
M J Miller
D Nelson
D J Overall
B C Petersen

Role

Chief Executive Officer – Infrastructure Services, to 6 March 2018  
Chief Executive Officer – Transport and Infrastructure, from 7 March 2018
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Executive Officer – New Zealand
Chief Executive Officer – Rail, to 6 March 2018
Chief Executive Officer – Spotless, from 22 August 2017
Chief Executive Officer – Mining, to 19 February 2018
Chief Executive Officer – Engineering, Construction & Maintenance, to 19 February 2018 
Chief Executive Officer – Mining, Energy and Industrial Services, from 20 February 2018

24  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20183.  Remuneration policy, principles and practices

3.1  Executive remuneration policy
Downer’s executive remuneration policy and practices are summarised in the table below.

Policy

Practices aligned with policy

Retain experienced, proven 
performers, and those 
considered to have high 
potential for succession

Focus performance

Provide a Zero 
Harm environment

Manage risk

 – Provide remuneration that is internally fair;
 – Ensure remuneration is competitive with the external market; and
 – Defer a substantial part of pay contingent on continuing service and sustained performance.

 – Provide a substantial component of pay contingent on performance against targets;
 – Focus attention on the most important drivers of value by linking pay to their achievement;
 – Require profitability to reach a challenging level before any bonus payments can be made; and
 – Provide a LTI plan component that rewards consistent Scorecard performance over multiple 

years and over which executives have a clear line of sight.

 – Incorporate measures that embody “Zero Harm” for Downer’s employees, contractors, 

communities and the environment as a significant component of reward.

 – Encourage sustainability by balancing incentives for achieving both short-term and longer-term 
results, and deferring equity based reward vesting after performance has been initially tested;
 – Set stretch targets that finely balance returns with reasonable but not excessive risk taking and 

cap maximum incentive payments;

 – Do not provide excessive “cliff” reward vesting that may encourage excessive risk taking as a 

performance threshold is approached;

 – Diversify risk and limit the prospects of unintended consequences from focusing on just one 

measure in both short-term and long-term incentive plans;

 – Stagger vesting of deferred short term incentive payments to encourage retention and allow 

forfeiture of rewards that are the result of misconduct or material adjustments;

 – Retain full Board discretion to vary incentive payments, including in the event of excessive 

risk taking; and

 – Restrict trading of vested equity rewards to ensure compliance with the Company’s Securities 

Trading Policy.

Align executive interests with 
those of shareholders

 – Provide that a significant proportion of pay is delivered as equity so part of executive reward is 

linked to shareholder value performance;

 – Provide a long-term incentive that is based on consistent Scorecard performance against 
challenging targets set each year that reflect sector volatility and prevailing economic 
conditions as well as relative TSR and earnings per share measures directly related to 
shareholder value;

 – Maintain a guideline minimum shareholding requirement for the Managing Director;
 – Exclude the short-term impact of unbudgeted and opportunistic acquisitions and divestments 

from performance assessment to encourage agility and responsiveness;

 – Encourage holding of shares after vesting via a trading restriction for all executives and 

payment of LTI components in shares; and

 – Prohibit hedging of unvested equity and equity subject to a trading lock to ensure alignment 

with shareholder outcomes.

Attract experienced, 
proven performers

 – Provide a total remuneration opportunity sufficient to attract proven and experienced 
executives from secure positions in other companies and retain existing executives.

Annual Report 2018  25

4.  Relationship between remuneration policy 
and company performance

4.1  Company strategy and remuneration
Downer’s business strategy includes:
 – Maintaining focus on Zero Harm by continually improving 
health, safety and environmental performance to achieve 
Downer’s goal of zero work-related injuries and significant 
environmental incidents;

 – Driving growth in core markets through focusing on serving 
existing customers better across multiple products and 
service offerings, growing capabilities and investing in 
innovation, research and development and community and 
indigenous partnerships;

 – Creating new strategic positions through enhanced value 
add services that improve propositions for customers and 
exporting established core competencies into new overseas 
markets with current customers of the Company;

 – Reducing risk and enhancing the Company’s capability 

to withstand threats, take advantage of opportunities and 
reduce cyclical volatility;

 – Excluding the short term impacts of opportunistic and 
unbudgeted acquisitions and divestments on incentive 
outcomes to encourage flexibility, responsiveness and 
growth consistent with strategy;

 – Deferring 50% of STI awards to encourage sustainable 

performance and a longer-term focus;

 – Incorporating consistent financial performance in the LTIP 

Scorecard measure;

 – Emphasis on Zero Harm measures in the STI to maintain the 
Company’s position as a Zero Harm leader and employer 
and service provider of choice, thereby delivering a 
competitive advantage; and

 – Encouraging engagement with and the development 

and retention of its people to help maintain a sustainable 
supply of talent.

4.2  Remuneration linked to performance
The link to performance is provided by:
 – Requiring a significant portion of executive remuneration to 

vary with short-term and long-term performance;

 – Applying a profitability gateway to be achieved before an STI 

 – Obtaining better utilisation of assets and improved margins 

calculation for executives is made;

through simplifying and driving efficiency;

 – Identifying opportunities to manage the Downer portfolio 

through partnering, acquisition and divestment that deliver 
long-term shareholder value; and

 – Maintaining flexibility to be able to adapt to the changing 
economic and competitive environment to ensure Downer 
delivers shareholder value.

The Company’s remuneration policy complements 
this strategy by:
 – Incorporating Company-wide performance requirements 

for both STI and LTI reward vesting for earnings (NPAT and 
NPATA), Free Cash Flow (FFO) and People measures to 
encourage cross-divisional collaboration;

 – Incorporating performance metrics that focus on cash flow to 

reduce working capital and debt exposure;

 – Setting NPATA, EBITA and FFO STI performance and 

gateway requirements based on effective application of funds 
employed to run the business for better capital efficiency;
 – Employing FFO as the cash measure for the STI to provide 

more emphasis on control of capital expenditure;

 – Applying further Zero Harm gateways to be achieved 

before calculating any reward for safety or 
environmental performance;

 – Applying challenging financial and non-financial measures to 

assess performance; 

 – Ensuring that these measures focus management 
on strategic business objectives that create 
shareholder value; and

 – Delivering a significant proportion of payment in equity for 

alignment with shareholder interests.

Downer measures performance on the following key 
corporate measures:
 – Earnings per share (EPS) growth;
 – Total shareholder return (TSR) relative to other ASX100 

companies (excluding ASX “Financials” sector companies);

 – Group NPATA;
 – Divisional  EBITA;
 – FFO;
 – Engagement with Downer’s people; and
 – “Zero Harm” measures of safety and environmental 

sustainability.

Remuneration for all executives varies with performance on 
these key measures.

26  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018The following graph shows the Company’s performance compared to the median performance of the ASX100 over the three year 
period to 30 June 2018.

Downer EDI TSR compared to S&P/ASX 100 median*

)
0
0
1
o
t
d
e
x
e
d
n
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(
n
r
u
t
e
R
r
e
d
o
h
e
r
a
h
S

l

l

a
t
o
T

250 

200 

150 

100 

50 

0 

Jun
2015

Sep
2015

Dec
2015

Mar
2016

Jun
2016

Sep
2016

Dec
2016

Mar
2017

Jun
2017

Sep
2017

Dec
2017

Mar
2018

Jun
2018

* S&P/ASX 100 companies as at 30/06/2015

Downer EDI TSR

S&P/ASX 100 median TSR

The graphs below illustrate Downer’s performance against key financial and non-financial performance indicators over the 
last five years.

Net profit after tax

Free cash flow

216.0

210.2

180.6

181.5

247.81

300

250

200

m
$

’

150

100

50

0

344.3

304.6

242.3

203.02

178.32

400

300

m
$

’

200

100

0

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

1   Adjusted for material unbudgeted transactions and individually significant items. 

2   Adjusted for material unbudgeted transactions, including payment for 

Spotless shares.

Basic earnings per share3

45.5

43.9

38.0

35.8

10.7

e
r
a
h
s

r
e
p
s
t
n
e
C

50

40

30

20

10

0

Safety

s
r
u
o
h
0
0
0
0
0
0
,
1

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i
r
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n

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T
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1.2

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0.0

LTIFR

TRIFR

1.08

0.70

0.87

0.78

0.66

0.55

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

s
r
u
o
h
0
0
0
0
0
0
,
1

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3   Historical basic earnings per share were restated as a result of 169.9 million 
shares issued from the capital raising made as part of the Spotless takeover 
offer announced on 21 March 2017. The weighted average number of shares 
(WANOS) to calculate EPS was adjusted by an adjustment factor of 0.943.

Annual Report 2018  27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.  The Board’s role in remuneration

The Board engages with shareholders, management and other stakeholders as required, to continuously refine and improve executive 
and Director remuneration policies and practices.

Two Board Committees deal with remuneration matters. They are the Remuneration Committee and the Nominations and Corporate 
Governance Committee.

The role of the Remuneration Committee is to review and make recommendations to the Board in relation to executives in respect of:
 – Executive remuneration and incentive policy;
 – Remuneration of senior executives of the Company;
 – Executive reward and its impact on risk management;
 – Executive incentive plans;
 – Equity-based incentive plans;
 – Superannuation arrangements;
 – Recruitment, retention, performance measurement and termination policies and procedures for all Key Management Personnel 

and senior executives reporting directly to the Managing Director;

 – Disclosure of remuneration in the Company’s public materials including ASX filings and the Annual Report; and
 – Retirement payments for all Key Management Personnel and senior executives reporting directly to the Managing Director.

The Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for recommending and reviewing remuneration arrangements 
for the Executive Director and Non-executive Directors of the Company.

Each Committee has the authority to engage external professional advisers without seeking approval of the Board or management. 
During the reporting period, the Remuneration Committee retained Guerdon Associates Pty Ltd as its adviser. Guerdon Associates 
Pty Ltd does not provide services to management and is considered to be independent.

Remuneration arrangements for executives of Spotless are set by the Board of Spotless. Spotless’ People and Remuneration Committee 
is comprised of two independent Directors and one Director nominated by Downer.

Details of the remuneration structure and arrangements for 2018 for D Nelson in her role as Chief Executive Officer – Spotless, as 
established by the Spotless Board, are outlined at section 6.7.

28  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20186.  Description of executive remuneration

6.1  Executive remuneration structure
Executive remuneration has a fixed component and a component that varies with performance.

The variable component ensures that a proportion of pay varies with performance. Performance is assessed annually for performance 
periods covering one year and three years. Payment for performance assessed over one year is an STI. Payment for performance over a 
three-year period is an LTI.

In order for maximum STIs to be awarded, performance must achieve a stretch goal that is a clear margin above the planned budget for 
the period. This enables the Company to attract and retain better performing executives, and ensures pay outcomes are aligned with 
shareholder returns.

Target STIs are less than the maximum STI. Target STI is payable on achievement of planned objectives. For executives the target 
STI is 75% of the maximum STI. The maximum total remuneration that can be earned by an executive is capped. The maximums are 
determined as a percentage of fixed remuneration. 

Executive position

Managing Director
Executives appointed prior to 2011
Executives appointed from 2011

Target 
STI % of
fixed 
remuneration

Maximum 
STI % of 
fixed 
remuneration

Maximum 
LTI % of 
fixed 
 remuneration

Maximum total
 performance
based pay as a % of
fixed remuneration

75
75
56.25

100
100
75

100
75
50

200
175
125

The proportions of STI to LTI take into account:
 – Market practice;
 – The service period before executives can receive equity rewards;
 – The behaviours that the Board seeks to encourage through direct key performance indicators; and
 – The guideline for the Managing Director to maintain a shareholding as a multiple of pay after long-term incentive 

rewards have vested.

6.2  Fixed remuneration
Fixed remuneration is the sum of salary and the direct cost of providing employee benefits, including superannuation, motor vehicles, 
car parking, living away from home expenses and fringe benefits tax.

The level of remuneration is set to be able to retain proven performers and when necessary to attract the most suitable external 
candidates from secure employment elsewhere.

Remuneration is benchmarked against a peer group of direct competitors and a sector peer group. While market levels of remuneration 
are monitored on a regular basis, there is no contractual requirement or expectation that any adjustments will be made.

No adjustment has been made to remuneration for the Managing Director since July 2012.

Annual Report 2018  29

6.3  Short-term incentive
6.3.1  STI tabular summary
The following table outlines the major features of the 2018 STI plan.

Purpose of STI plan

 – Focus performance on drivers of shareholder value over 12 month period;
 – Improve “Zero Harm” and people related results; and
 – Ensure a part of remuneration costs varies with the Company’s 12 month performance.

Minimum performance “gateway” 
before any payments can be made

Achievement of a gateway based on budgeted Group NPATA for corporate executives and 
Division EBITA for divisional heads.

Maximum STI that can be earned

 – KMP appointed pre 2011: up to 100% of fixed remuneration; and
 – KMP appointed from 2011: up to 75% of fixed remuneration.

Percentage of STI that can 
be earned on achieving 
target expectations

Individual Performance  
Modifier (IPM)

75% of the maximum. For an executive to receive more, performance in excess of target 
expectations will be required.

 – An IPM may be applied based on an executive’s individual key performance indicators and 

relative performance;

 – Moderate individual performance may result in an IPM of less than 1 or outstanding 
performance may result in an IPM greater than 1. The IPM must average 1 across all 
participants; and

 – Application of an IPM cannot result in an award greater than the maximum STI% level set out 

in section 6.1.

Discretion to vary payments

The Board, in its discretion, may vary STI payments by up to + or – 100% from the payment 
applicable to the level of performance achieved, up to the maximum for that executive.

Performance period

1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018.

Performance assessed

August 2018, following audit of accounts.

Additional service period 
after performance period for 
payment to be made

Payment timing

Form of payment

50% of the award is deferred with the first tranche of 25% vesting one year following award and 
the second tranche of 25% vesting two years following award.

September 2018 for the first cash payment of 50% of the award. The deferred components 
of the STI payments will be paid one and two years following the award, in equal tranches of 
25% of the award.

Cash for initial payment.
The value of deferred components will be settled in cash or shares, net of personal tax. An 
eligible leaver’s deferred components will be settled in shares or in cash in the sole and absolute 
discretion of the Board.

Performance requirements

Group NPATA and divisional EBITA, FFO, Zero Harm and people measures.

Board discretion

New recruits

Terminating executives

30  Downer EDI Limited

The Board may exercise discretion to:
 – Reduce partly or fully the value of the deferred components that are due to vest in certain 
circumstances, including where an executive has acted inappropriately or where the Board 
considers that the financial results against which the STIP performance measures were tested 
were incorrect in a material respect or have been reversed or restated; and

 – Settle deferred components in shares or cash.

New executives (either new starts or promoted employees) are eligible to participate in the STI in 
the year in which they commence in their position with a pro-rata entitlement.

There is no STI entitlement where an executive’s employment terminates prior to the end of 
the financial year. Where an executive’s employment terminates prior to the vesting date, the 
unvested deferred components will be forfeited. However, the Board has retained discretion to 
vest deferred awards, in the form of shares or cash, in their ordinary course where the executive is 
judged to be an eligible leaver.

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20186.3.2  STI overview
The STI plan provides for an annual payment that varies with annual performance. This has been applied to performance measured 
over the Company’s financial year to 30 June 2018.

The basis of the plan is designed to align STI outcomes with financial results. No STI is paid unless a minimum profit gateway is met. 
For corporate executives, the gateway is based on the Group budgeted profit target. For divisional executives, the gateway is based 
on the division budgeted profit target. Profit for this purpose is defined as NPATA for corporate executives and EBITA for divisional 
executives. This minimum must be at a challenging level to justify the payment of STI to an executive, and deliver an acceptable 
return for the funds employed in running the business. Positive and negative impacts from material but unbudgeted and opportunistic 
transactions are excluded from gateway assessment. Whether to exclude the impact of significant items (positive or negative) is 
considered on a case by case basis.

As noted in section 6.1, the maximum STI that can be earned is capped to minimise excessive risk taking.

Deferral is a key feature as part of the STI structure. Payment of 50% of the award is paid at the time of award in cash and the remaining 
50% of the award earned is deferred over two years.

The first payment of 50% of the award will be in cash after finalisation of the annual audited results. The payment of the deferred 
component of the award will be in the form of two tranches, each to the value of 25% of the award.

The deferred components represent an entitlement to cash or shares, subject to the satisfaction of a continued employment condition. 
The first tranche will vest one year following award and the second tranche will vest two years following award, provided an executive 
remains employed by the Group at the time of vesting.

The value of deferred components will generally be settled in shares, net of applicable personal tax. This is designed to encourage 
executive share ownership, and not adversely impact executives who have to meet their taxation obligations arising from the vesting 
of the deferred components. However, the Board retains the discretion to vest deferred awards, in the form of shares or cash, and will 
generally have regard to an executive’s individual circumstances and existing level of equity ownership.

No dividend entitlements are attached to the deferred components during the vesting period.

Where an executive ceases employment with the Group prior to the vesting date, the deferred components will be forfeited. 
However, the Board has retained the discretion to vest deferred awards, in the form of shares or cash, in their ordinary course where the 
executive is judged to be an eligible leaver.

6.3.3  How STI payments are assessed

Target STI plan percentage of pay

An individual’s target incentive under the STI plan is expressed as a percentage of fixed 
remuneration. The STI plan percentage is set according to policy tabulated in section 6.1.

Organisational or divisional 
scorecard result

As a principle, “target” achievement would be represented at budget. Thresholds and 
maximums are also set.

Individual Performance  
Modifier (IPM) 

At the end of the plan year, eligible employees are provided with an IPM against their key 
performance indicators and relative performance. Individual key performance indicators are set 
between the individual and the Managing Director (if reporting to the Managing Director) or the 
Board (if the Managing Director) at the start of the performance period. IPMs must average to 1.

STI plan incentive calculation

Fixed remuneration x maximum STI plan percent x scorecard result x IPM.

Annual Report 2018  31

6.3.4  STI performance requirements
Overall performance is assessed on NPATA, EBITA, FFO, Zero Harm and a measure of employee engagement.

NPATA and EBITA include joint ventures and associates and include, inter alia, changes in accounting policy.

FFO is defined as net cash from operating activities (i.e. EBIT plus non-cash items in operating profit plus distributions received 
from JVs or associates plus movements in working capital plus movements in operating assets less net interest less tax paid), less 
investing cash flow.

Zero Harm reflects Downer’s commitment to safety and environmental, social and governance matters. The Zero Harm element 
includes safety and environmental measures, underscoring Downer’s commitment to customers, employees, regulators and the 
communities in which it operates. 

The measures for the Zero Harm element of the scorecard are as follows:

Measure

Target

Safety
TRIFR (total recordable injury 
frequency rate) 

LTIFR (lost time injury frequency rate)

Retain TRIFR and LTIFR below defined threshold levels for area of responsibility. TRIFR is 
calculated as the number of recordable injuries x 1,000,000/the hours worked in 
12 months. LTIFR is calculated as the number of lost time injuries x 1,000,000/the hours 
worked in 12 months.

Environmental
Greenhouse gas emission reductions Review of targets for greenhouse gas reduction and energy efficiency and the achievement of 

Critical risks

Zero Harm Leadership

energy efficiency targets for the area of control.
Continuation of critical control verification programs, trend analysis on critical control 
verifications and the implementation of a program of initiatives to improve the resilience of 
critical controls.
Performance of a minimum number of cross-divisional critical risk observations by senior 
executives within the relevant area of control in other areas of Downer.

Should a workplace fatality or serious environmental incident occur, the relevant safety or environmental portion of the STI is foregone. 

Weightings applied to the 2018 STI scorecard measures for all executives, including the Managing Director, are set out in 
the table below.

Executive

Corporate

Business unit

Group NPATA

Divisional EBITA

Free cash flow

Zero Harm

30%

7.5%

–

22.5%

30%

30%
(7.5% Group, 
22.5% division)

30%

30%

People

10%

10%
(3% Group,
7% division)

The Board has discretion to vary STI payments by up to + or – 100% from the payment applicable to the level of performance achieved, 
up to the maximum for that executive.

Specific details of STI performance requirements are set out in section 7.3.

The Board retains the right to vary from policy in exceptional circumstances. However, any variation from policy and the reasons for it 
will be disclosed.

32  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20186.4  Long-term incentive
6.4.1  LTI tabular summary
The following table outlines the major features of the 2018 LTI plan.

Purpose of LTI plan

 – Focus performance on drivers of shareholder value over three-year period;
 – Manage risk by countering any tendency to over-emphasise short-term performance to the 

detriment of longer-term growth and sustainability; and

 – Ensure a part of remuneration costs varies with the Company’s longer-term performance.

Maximum value of equity 
that can be granted

 – Managing Director: 100% of fixed remuneration;
 – KMP appointed pre-2011: 75% of fixed remuneration; and
 – KMP appointed from 2011: 50% of fixed remuneration.

Performance period

1 July 2017 to 30 June 2020.

Performance assessed

September 2020.

Additional service period 
after performance period 
for shares to vest

Performance rights for which the relevant performance vesting condition is satisfied will not vest 
unless executives remain employed with the Group on 30 June 2021.

Performance rights vest

1 July 2021.

Form of award and payment

Performance rights.

Performance conditions

There are three performance conditions. Each applies to one-third of the performance rights granted to 
each executive.

Relative TSR
The relative TSR performance condition is based on the Company’s TSR performance relative to the 
TSR of companies comprising the ASX100 index, excluding financial services companies, at the start of 
the performance period, measured over the three years to 30 June 2020.
The performance vesting scale that will apply to the performance rights subject to the relative TSR test 
is shown in the table below:

Downer EDI Limited’s 
TSR Ranking

Percentage of performance rights subject to TSR condition that 
qualify for vesting

< 50th percentile

50th percentile

Above 50th and below 
75th percentile

0%

30%

Pro rata so that 2.8% of the performance rights in the tranche will 
vest for every 1 percentile increase between the 50th percentile and 
75th percentile

75th percentile and above

100%

Annual Report 2018  33

EPS growth
The EPS growth performance condition is based on the Company’s compound annual EPS growth over 
the three years to 30 June 2020.
The performance vesting scale that will apply to the performance rights subject to the EPS growth test 
is shown in the table below:

Downer EDI Limited’s EPS 
compound annual growth

Percentage of performance rights subject to EPS condition that 
qualify for vesting

< 5%

5%

0%

30%

Above 5% to < 10%

Pro rata so that 14% of the performance rights in the tranche will 
vest for every 1% increase in EPS growth between 5% and 10%

10% or more

100%

Scorecard
The Scorecard performance condition is based on the Group’s NPAT and FFO for each of the three years 
to 30 June 2020.
The performance vesting scale that will apply to the performance rights subject to the Scorecard test is 
shown in the table below:

Scorecard result

< 90%

90%

Above 90% to < 110%

Percentage of performance rights subject to Scorecard condition 
that qualify for vesting

0%

30%

Pro rata so that 3.5% of the performance rights in the tranche will vest 
for every 1% increase in the Scorecard result between 90% and 110%

110% or more

100%

How performance rights and 
shares are acquired

The rights are issued by the Company and held by the participant subject to the satisfaction of 
the vesting conditions. The number of rights held may be adjusted pro-rata, consistent with ASX 
adjustment factors, for any capital re-structures.
If the rights vest, executives can exercise them to receive shares that are normally acquired on-market.

Treatment of dividends 
and voting rights on 
performance rights

Performance rights do not have voting rights or accrue dividends.

Restriction on hedging

Hedging of entitlements under the plan by executives is not permitted.

Restriction on trading

Vested shares arising from the rights may only be traded with the approval of the Remuneration 
Committee. Approval requires that trading comply with the Company’s Securities Trading Policy.

New participants

Terminating executives

New executives (either new starts or promoted employees) are eligible to participate in the LTI on the 
first grant date applicable to all executives after they commence in their position. An additional pro-
rata entitlement if their employment commenced after the grant date in the prior calendar year may be 
made on a discretionary basis.

Where an executive ceases employment with the Group prior to the vesting date, the rights will 
be forfeited. However, the Board will retain the discretion to retain executives in the plan in certain 
circumstances including the death, total and permanent disability or retirement of an executive. In 
these circumstances, the Board will also retain the discretion to vest awards in the form of cash.

34  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Change of control

On the occurrence of a change of control event, and providing at least 12 months of the grants’ 
performance period have elapsed, unvested performance rights pro rated with the elapsed service 
period are tested for vesting with performance against the relevant relative TSR, EPS growth or 
Scorecard requirements for that relevant period. Vesting will occur to the extent the performance 
conditions are met. Performance rights that have already been tested, have met performance 
requirements and are subject to the completion of the service condition, fully vest.

6.4.2  LTI overview
Executives participate in a LTI plan. This is an equity-based plan that provides for a reward that varies with Company performance over 
three-year measures of performance. Three-year measures of performance are considered to be the maximum reasonable time period 
for setting incentive targets for earnings per share and are generally consistent with market practice in the Company’s sector.

The payment is in the form of performance rights. The performance rights do not have any dividend entitlements or voting rights. If all 
the vesting requirements are satisfied, the performance rights will vest and the executives will receive shares in the Company or cash at 
the discretion of the Board. 

The 2018 LTI represents an entitlement to performance rights to ordinary shares exercisable subject to satisfaction of both a 
performance condition and a continued employment condition. Grants will be in three equal tranches, with each tranche subject to an 
independent performance requirement. The performance requirements for each tranche will share two common features:
 – Once minimum performance conditions are met, the proportion of performance rights that qualify for vesting commences at 
30% and gradually increases pro rata with performance. This approach provides a strong motivation for meeting minimum 
performance, but avoids a large “cliff” which may encourage excessive risk taking; and

 – The maximum reward is capped at a “stretch” performance level that is considered attainable without excessive risk taking.

Performance for the 2018 LTI grants will be measured over the three-year period to 30 June 2020.

The proportion of performance rights that can vest will be calculated in September 2020, but executives will be required to remain in 
service until 30 June 2021 to be eligible to receive any shares.

Where an executive ceases employment with the Group prior to the vesting date, the rights will be forfeited. However, the Board will 
retain the discretion to retain executives in the plan in certain circumstances such as the death, total and permanent disability or 
retirement of an executive. In these circumstances, the Board will also retain the discretion to vest awards in the form of cash.

After vesting, any shares will remain subject to a trading restriction that is governed by the Company’s Securities Trading Policy.

All unvested performance rights will be forfeited if the Board determines that an executive has committed an act of fraud, defalcation or 
gross misconduct or in other circumstances at the discretion of the Board.

Annual Report 2018  35

6.4.3  Performance requirements
One tranche of performance rights in the 2018 LTI grant will 
qualify for vesting subject to performance relative to other 
companies, while the other two tranches of performance rights 
will qualify for vesting subject to separate, independent absolute 
performance requirements.

The relative performance requirement applicable to the first 
tranche of performance rights is based on total shareholder 
return (TSR). TSR is calculated as the difference in share 
price over the performance period, plus the value of shares 
earned from reinvesting dividends received over this period, 
expressed as a percentage of the share price at the beginning 
of the performance period. If the TSR for each company in the 
comparator group is ranked from highest to lowest, the median 
TSR is the percentage return to shareholders that exceeds the 
TSR for half of the comparison companies. The 75th percentile 
TSR is the percentage return required to exceed the TSR for 
75% of the comparison companies.

Performance rights in the tranche to which the relative TSR 
performance requirement applies will vest pro rata between the 
median and 75th percentile. That is, 30% of the tranche vest at 
the 50th percentile, 32.8% at the 51st percentile, 35.6% at the 
52nd percentile and so on until 100% vest at the 75th percentile.

The comparator group for the 2018 LTI grants will be the 
companies, excluding financial services companies, in the 
ASX100 index as at the start of the performance period on 
1 July 2017. Consideration has been given to using a smaller 
group of direct competitors for comparison, however:
 – Limiting the comparator group to a small number of direct 
competitors could result in very volatile outcomes from 
period to period; and

 – Management’s strong focus on improving the Company’s 

ranking among ASX100 companies has become embedded 
in Company culture, so reinforcing this rather than trying to 
dislodge it with another focus was considered desirable.

The absolute performance requirement applicable to the 
second tranche of performance rights is based on Earnings per 
Share (EPS) growth over the three year performance period 
to 30 June 2020. The EPS measure is based on AASB 133 
Earnings per Share.

The tranche of performance rights dependent on the EPS 
performance condition will vest pro rata between 5% compound 
annual EPS growth and 10% compound annual EPS growth.

Vesting applies on a pro rata basis from 30% upon meeting 
the minimum compound annual EPS growth performance level 
of 5% to 100% at 10% annual compound annual EPS growth. 
Capping reduces the tendency for excessive risk taking and 
volatility that may be encouraged if the annual compound EPS 
growth bar is set above 10%.

36  Downer EDI Limited

The absolute performance requirement applicable to 
the third tranche of performance rights is based on the 
Scorecard condition over the three year performance period 
to 30 June 2020.

The Scorecard condition is designed to: 
 – Strengthen retention through the setting of challenging 
targets on an annual basis that reflect prevailing market 
conditions, for a portion of LTI awards;

 – Align with the STI plan to encourage a long-term approach to 

achieving annual financial performance targets;

 – Improve the line of sight for executives so as to increase 
motivation and focus on consistent performance; and
 – Focus on performance sustainability through reward of 

consistent achievement of absolute performance targets 
over the long term.

The Scorecard condition is comprised of two independent 
absolute components of equal weighting. These components are 
based on Group NPAT and Group FFO.

The performance of each component will be measured over the 
three year period to 30 June 2020. 

NPAT and FFO targets are set at the beginning of each of the 
three financial years. The performance of each component will   
be assessed each year relative to the targets. Performance of 
each component will be determined as the average of the annual 
performance assessments for the three years. The performance 
rights will vest on a pro-rata basis from 30% upon meeting the 
minimum three-year average component performance level 
of 90% of target to 100% at the capped maximum three-year 
average component performance level of 110% of target.

The processes and timing applicable for the Scorecard measure 
are outlined below:

Timing

Actions

At the beginning  
of the plan

Weighting of components is 
determined. In 2018 the components are 
equally weighted.

At the beginning of 
each financial year

NPAT and FFO target performance 
levels are set.

At the end of 
each financial year

 – Calculate actual performance; and
 – Assess actual performance compared 
to target to determine performance 
percentage for the year.

At the end of  
three years

 – Calculate average annual performance 

for each component; and

 – Calculate award based on performance 

against the vesting range.

At the end of  
four years

Consider the continued service condition 
and determine vesting.

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20186.4.4  Post‑vesting shareholding guideline
The Managing Director is required to continue holding shares 
after they have vested until the shareholding guideline has 
been attained. This guideline requires that the Managing 
Director holds vested long-term incentive shares equal in value 
to 100% of his fixed remuneration. The Managing Director’s 
shareholding is currently well in excess of the guideline.

The Remuneration Committee has discretion to allow 
variations from this guideline requirement. The guideline 
requirement has been developed to reinforce alignment with 
shareholder interests.

The Board retains the right to vary from policy in exceptional 
circumstances. However, any variation from policy and the 
reasons for it will be disclosed.

6.5  Treatment of major transactions
Downer has delivered significant shareholder value through a 
long history of strategic mergers, acquisitions and divestments. 
On each occasion, the Board considers the impact of these 
transactions. Where a transaction is both material and 
unbudgeted, the Board considers whether it is appropriate 
to adjust for its impact on the key performance indicators on 
which executive performance is measured. The objective of any 
adjustment is to ensure that opportunities to add value through 
an opportunistic divestment or acquisition should not be 
fettered by consideration of the impact on incentive payments. 
That is, executives should be ‘no better or worse off’ as a result 
of the transaction. No adjustments are made for market reactions 
to a transaction as the Board believes that management is 
accountable for those outcomes. 

This Board considers this approach to be appropriate as it:
 – Ensures that executives and the Board consider these 

transactions solely based on the best interests of Downer;

 – Means executives remain accountable for transaction 
execution and post-transaction performance from the 
next budget cycle; 

 – Ensures that executives complete opportunistic transactions 

that are in the long-term interest of shareholders; 
 – Is consistent with the Board’s long-term view when 

considering the value of major transactions to Downer’s 
shareholders; and

 – Ensures Downer remains agile and responsive in managing 

its portfolio by pursuing opportunities as and when 
they emerge rather than be constrained by the annual 
budget process. 

In assessing Zero Harm performance of executives, the results of 
acquired businesses are excluded for a period of twelve months 
post-acquisition to ensure that management is accountable for 
the objectives set in the annual business planning process and 
in recognition that an integration period during which Downer’s 
Zero Harm framework (including systems, processes, definitions 
and measurement and reporting methods) is implemented 
through the acquired business is appropriate. Where this 
transition to Downer’s framework takes place over a longer 

period due to the complexity of the implementation or the 
maturity profile of the acquired business, the Board will consider 
an extension to a more appropriate period.

6.6  Treatment of significant items
From time to time, Downer’s performance is impacted by 
significant items. Where these occur, the Board considers 
whether to adjust for their impact (positive or negative) on 
a case by case basis, having regard to the circumstances 
relevant to each item.

The Board considers this approach to be appropriate as it 
ensures that executives and the Board make decisions solely 
based on the best interests of Downer.

6.7  Chief Executive Officer – Spotless 
Downer has an interest of 87.8% in Spotless Group Holdings 
Limited (Spotless), which remains listed on the Australian 
Securities Exchange. Remuneration arrangements for executives 
of Spotless are set by the Board of Spotless. Spotless’ People 
and Remuneration Committee is comprised of two independent 
Directors and one Director nominated by Downer.

Following is a summary of the remuneration structure 
and arrangements for FY18 for D Nelson in her role as 
Chief Executive Officer – Spotless as established by the 
Spotless Board.

6.7.1  Remuneration structure
The remuneration for the CEO – Spotless has a fixed component 
and a component that varies with performance.

Fixed remuneration is the sum of salary and the direct cost of 
providing employee benefits, including superannuation and other 
non-cash benefits.

Remuneration is benchmarked against a peer group of 
competitors. While market levels of remuneration are monitored 
on a regular basis, there is no contractual requirement or 
expectation that any adjustments will be made.

The variable component ensures that a proportion of pay 
varies with performance. Performance is assessed annually 
for performance periods covering one year and three years. 
Payment for performance assessed over one year is an STI. 
Payment for performance assessed over three years is an LTI. 

For 2018, the Spotless Board determined that it was 
inappropriate to grant performance rights under the LTI, which 
was based on EPS and TSR performance hurdles, due to the 
low level of free float shares in Spotless and lack of trading 
liquidity following the takeover by Downer. Accordingly, for 2018, 
the maximum value of the STI was increased from 100% to 
150% of fixed remuneration and STI deferral was introduced. 
The Spotless Board will give consideration to a longer term 
approach for 2019.

Annual Report 2018  37

6.7.2  STI tabular summary
The following table outlines the major features of the Spotless 2018 STI plan.

Minimum performance “gateway” 
before any payments can be made

Achievement of a gateway based on budgeted NPAT must be met before any STI payment can be 
made. A further Zero Harm gateway must be met for an award for safety performance to be made.

Maximum STI that can be earned

100% of fixed remuneration. This was increased to 150% for 2018 only as no LTI grant 
was made for 2018.

Percentage of STI that can 
be earned on achieving 
target expectations

Discretion to vary payments

75% of the maximum. For an executive to receive more, performance in excess of target 
expectations will be required.

The Board, in its discretion, may vary STI payments by up to + or – 100% from the payment 
applicable to the level of performance achieved, up to the maximum for that executive.

Performance period

1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018.

Performance assessed

August 2018, following audit of accounts.

Additional service period 
after performance period for 
payment to be made

Payment timing

50% of the award is deferred with the first tranche of 25% vesting one year following award and 
the second tranche of 25% vesting two years following award.

September 2018 for the first payment of 50% of the award. The deferred components of 
the STI payments will be paid one and two years following the award, in equal tranches of 
25% of the award.

Form of payment

Payments are made in cash.

Performance requirements

The Spotless performance scorecard is comprised of the following measures:

Measure 
NPAT 
FFO 
Revenue 
Zero Harm – Recordable Injury Frequency Rate 
People – talent and succession planning, regrettable turnover 

Weighting
30%
30%
10%
20%
10%

The Board may exercise discretion to reduce partly or fully the value of the deferred 
components that are due to vest in certain circumstances, including where an executive has 
acted inappropriately or where the Board considers that the financial results against which 
the STI performance measures were tested were incorrect in a material respect or have been 
reversed or restated.

There is no STI entitlement where employment terminates prior to the end of the financial year. 
Where employment terminates prior to the vesting date, the unvested deferred components will 
be forfeited other than where the Spotless Board judges to be an eligible leaver.

Board discretion

Terminating executives

These arrangements reflect changes from the previous Spotless remuneration framework and an intention of the Spotless Board to 
align with the Downer framework as appropriate.

Further information on Spotless’ remuneration practices is contained in its Remuneration Report which can be found on the Spotless 
website www. spotless.com.

38  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20187.  Details of executive remuneration 

7.1  Remuneration received in relation to the 2018 financial year
Executives receive a mix of remuneration during the year, comprising fixed remuneration, an STI paid in cash and an LTI in the form of 
performance rights that vest four years later, subject to meeting performance and continued employment conditions.

The table below lists the remuneration actually received in relation to the 2018 financial year, comprising fixed remuneration, cash STIs 
relating to 2018, deferred STIs payable in 2018 in respect of prior years and the value of LTI grants that vested during the 2018 financial 
year. This information differs to that provided in the statutory remuneration table at section 7.2 which shows the accounting expense 
of LTIs and deferred STIs for 2018 determined in accordance with accounting standards rather than the value of LTI grants that vested 
during the year.

Fixed
Remuneration1
$

Cash Bonus paid 
or payable in 
respect of 
current year
$

G A Fenn2,4
S Cinerari2,4
M J Ferguson2,5
S L Killeen2,5
M J Miller2,5
D Nelson2
D J Overall4
B C Petersen2,4

2,060,323
1,082,745
825,000
829,185
483,882
948,731
800,891
852,640

7,883,397

840,300
492,580
267,846
200,476
156,576
506,237
–
283,146

Deferred 
Bonus paid 
or payable in  
respect of  
prior years
$

804,400
485,775
135,577
34,367
116,222
–
581,745
189,553

Total
payments
$

3,705,023
2,061,100
1,228,423
1,064,028
756,680
1,454,968
1,382,636
1,325,339

2,747,161

2,347,639

12,978,197

Equity 
that vested 
during 20173
$

Total 
remuneration 
received
$

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

3,705,023
2,061,100
1,228,423
1,064,028
756,680
1,454,968
1,382,636
1,325,339

12,978,197

1 
2 

3 

Fixed remuneration comprises salary and fees, payment of leave entitlements, non-monetary benefits and superannuation payments.
Cash Bonus paid or payable in respect of current year represents cash payments in relation to the 2018 financial year. These comprise the 50% cash component of the 
award. The remaining 50% of the total award is deferred as described in section 6.3.
Represents the value of restricted shares granted in previous years that vested during the year, calculated as the number of restricted shares that vested multiplied by the 
closing market prices of Downer shares on the vesting date.

4  Deferred Bonus represents the deferred cash bonus amount to be paid in September 2018, being the second deferred component of the 2016 award and the first deferred 

component of the 2017 award, being 25% of each award.
Deferred Bonus represents the deferred cash bonus amount to be paid in September 2018, being the first deferred component of the 2017 award, being 25% of the award.

5 

Annual Report 2018  39

 
7.2  Remuneration of executive key management personnel required under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)

2018

Short-term 
employee benefits

Post-employment 
benefits

Cash Bonus 
paid or 
payable in 
respect  
of current 
year
$

840,300
492,580
267,846
200,476
156,576
506,237
–
283,146
2,747,161

Deferred 
Bonus paid 
or payable4 
$

859,283
491,054
224,583
109,854
192,511
210,932
335,984
260,140
2,684,341

Salary
and fees
$

1,766,618
1,038,284
792,549
750,268
450,420
931,394
785,743
821,267
7,336,543

Non-
monetary
$

Super-
annuation
$

Other
 benefits
$

Subtotal
$

Share-based
payment
transac- 
tions3
$

Total
$

273,656
14,084
12,402
7,130
19,773
2,300
2,319
11,324
342,988

20,049
30,377
20,049
71,787
13,689
15,037
12,829
20,049
203,866

3,759,906
–
2,066,379
–
1,317,429
–
1,139,515
–
832,969
–
1,665,900
–
1,136,875
–
–
1,395,926
– 13,314,899

1,373,275
546,250
211,220
86,100
187,063
–
161,500
276,351

5,133,181
2,612,629
1,528,649
1,225,615
1,020,032
1,665,900
1,298,375
1,672,277
2,841,759 16,156,658

G A Fenn2,4
S Cinerari2,4
M J Ferguson2,4
S L Killeen2,4
M J Miller1,2,4
D Nelson1,2,4
D J Overall1,2,4
B C Petersen2,4

1 
2 

3 

Amounts represent the payments relating to the period during which the individuals were Key Management Personnel (KMP).
Cash Bonus paid or payable in respect of current year represents cash payments in relation to the 2018 financial year. These comprise the 50% cash component of 
the award.
Represents the value of vested and unvested equity expensed during the period including reversal for forfeited equity incentives and the probability of the incentives 
vesting, in accordance with AASB 2 Share-based Payment, related to grants made to the executive, as outlined in sections 8.2 and 8.3. Vesting of the majority of securities 
remains subject to significant performance and service conditions as outlined in section 6.4.

4  Deferred Bonus represents the value of deferred components attributable to the 2018 financial year based on amortisation of deferred components over the period from the 

commencement of the relevant performance year to the end of financial year to which payment of the relevant deferred component relates.

2017

Short-term 
employee benefits

Post-employment 
benefits

Cash Bonus 
paid or 
payable in 
respect  
of current 
year
$

964,100
495,550
271,153
66,129
232,444
568,277
315,913
2,913,566

Deferred 
Bonus paid 
or payable4 
$

803,667
467,313
112,980
28,639
96,852
584,940
157,961
2,252,352

Salary
and fees
$

1,775,384
980,384
659,616
289,648
638,762
1,326,197
810,235
6,480,226

Non-
monetary
$

Super-
annuation
$

Other
 benefits
$

Subtotal
$

Share-based
payment
transac- 
tions3
$

Total
$

288,050
19,916
8,268
2,351
16,622
8,495
20,149
363,851

19,616
26,276
19,616
10,792
19,616
19,616
19,616
135,148

–
–
–
–
–
395,708
–

3,850,817
1,989,439
1,071,633
397,559
1,004,296
2,903,233
1,323,874
395,708 12,540,851

1,656,713
593,437
119,473
–
111,507
496,208
184,604

5,507,530
2,582,876
1,191,106
397,559
1,115,803
3,399,441
1,508,478
3,161,942 15,702,793

G A Fenn2,4
S Cinerari2,4
M J Ferguson2,4
S L Killeen1,2,4
M J Miller2,4
D J Overall2,4,5
B C Petersen2,4

1 
2 

3 

Amounts represent the payments relating to the period during which the individuals were Key Management Personnel (KMP).
Cash Bonus paid or payable in respect of current year represents cash payments in relation to the 2017 financial year. These comprise the 50% cash component of 
the award.
Represents the value of vested and unvested equity expensed during the period including reversal for forfeited equity incentives and the probability of the incentives 
vesting, in accordance with AASB 2 Share-based Payment, related to grants made to the executive, as outlined in sections 8.2 and 8.3. Vesting of the majority of securities 
remains subject to significant performance and service conditions as outlined in section 6.4.

4  Deferred Bonus represents the value of deferred components attributable to the 2017 financial year based on amortisation of deferred components over the period from the 

commencement of the relevant performance year to the end of financial year to which payment of the relevant deferred component relates.
D J Overall: Other benefits represents the accrual of the cash retention benefit payable on 21 May 2017 ($395,708), being 12 months’ fixed remuneration.

5 

40  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018 
7.3  Performance related remuneration
7.3.1  Performance outcomes required under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)
The table below lists the proportions of remuneration paid during the year ended 30 June 2018 that are performance and non-
performance related and the proportion of STIs that were earned during the year ended 30 June 2018 due to the achievement of the 
relevant performance targets.

G A Fenn1
S Cinerari1
M J Ferguson
S L Killeen
D Nelson
B C Petersen

Proportion of 
2018 remuneration

2018 
Short-term incentive

Performance
Related
%

Non-
performance
Related
%

Paid
%

Forfeited
%

60
59
46
32
43
49

40
41
54
68
57
51

84
90
84
76
61
89

16
10
16
24
39
11

1 

Performance related portion includes the reversal of expense for forfeited equity incentives described in section 6.4.

7.3.2  STI performance outcomes
Specific STI financial and commercial targets remain commercially sensitive and so have not been reported.

In order for an STI to be paid, a minimum of 90% of the budgeted profit target must be met. For corporate executives, the hurdle is 
90% of the Group budgeted profit target. Profit for this purpose is defined as NPATA. For divisional executives, the hurdle is 90% of the 
division budgeted profit target. Profit for this purpose is defined as EBITA.

The following table summarises the average performance achieved by the KMP across each element of the scorecard. 

Weighting of scorecard element

Percentage of the element achieved

Corporate
Division
Corporate
Division1

Group 
NPATA

Divisional
EBITA

Group
FFO

Divisional
FFO

30.0
7.5
58.4
58.4

22.5

66.7

30.0
7.5
100.0
100.0

22.5

95.2

Zero 
Harm

30.0
30.0
100.0
96.0

People

10.0
10.0
65.0
48.6

1 

Performance includes the results for each Division for each element, even if the EBITA gateway was not achieved.

Annual Report 2018  41

The following table sets out the performance achieved by each KMP across each element of the scorecard.

G A Fenn and M J Ferguson

Element

Measure

Threshold

Safety and Environmental
Employee engagement
Profit (NPATA)
FFO

Zero Harm
People
Financial

S Cinerari

Target

•

Maximum

Element

Measure

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Safety and Environmental
Employee engagement
Profit (NPATA/EBITA)
FFO

Zero Harm
People
Financial

S L Killeen

•

Element

Measure

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Safety and Environmental
Employee engagement
Profit (NPATA/EBITA)
FFO

Zero Harm
People
Financial

D Nelson

Element

Measure

Threshold

Target

Safety
Talent and succession
Profit (NPAT)
FFO
Revenue

Zero Harm
People
Financial

B C Petersen

Maximum

•
•

Element

Measure

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Zero Harm
People
Financial

Safety and Environmental
Employee engagement
Profit (NPATA/EBITA)
FFO

• 

For 2018, the IPM applied to each member of the KMP ranged from 0.9 to 1. 

•

•

42  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018 
7.3.3  LTI performance outcomes
The table below summarises LTI performance measures tested and the outcomes for each executive.

Relevant 
executives

G A Fenn, 
S Cinerari,
D J Overall

Relevant 
LTI measure

2015 plan

Performance 
outcome

% LTI tranche 
that vested

TSR tranche – percentile ranking of 
Downer’s TSR relative to the constituents 
of the ASX100 over a three-year period.

EPS tranche – compound annual 
earnings per share growth against 
absolute targets over a three-year period.

Scorecard tranche – sustained NPAT and 
FFO performance against budget over a 
three-year period.

Actual performance ranked at 
the 76th percentile.

100% became 
provisionally qualified.

Actual performance was 
–4.95%.

0% became provisionally qualified.
100% were forfeited.

Actual performance was 102.6% 
for NPAT and 170.5% for FFO.

87.1% became 
provisionally qualified.
12.9% were forfeited.

7.4  Major transactions and significant items
7.4.1  Major transactions 
In 2018 Downer continued to optimise its portfolio in keeping with its strategy of creating efficient market positions to deliver long-term 
shareholder value through restructuring, partnering, acquisition and divestment. 

Downer undertook five M&A transactions and a significant restructure of existing businesses during 2018. These transactions were the 
acquisition of Cabrini Linen Service, Envista, Integrated Services and UrbanGrid and the divestment of the Freight Rail business. 

The acquisition and integration of Spotless continued during 2018 which was also restructured in order to align its service offerings 
with its core markets. Downer achieved majority ownership of Spotless on 27 June 2017, with Downer nominated Directors appointed 
to the Spotless Board on 19 July 2017. In setting the 2018 financial targets at the beginning of the performance period, the mid-point 
of 2018 underlying earnings guidance provided by the pre-acquisition Spotless Board was adopted by Downer and management has 
been measured against these operational performance targets. Several unbudgeted non-operational items were incurred for integration 
costs, redundancy costs and costs associated with completion of the Strategy Reset program established by the pre-acquisition 
Spotless Board.

In accordance with its policy, the Board considered the impact of each major transaction on incentive outcomes and determined that:
 – The performance of the Cabrini Linen Service business was reflected in the budget and accordingly no adjustment would be made 

to incentive outcomes;

 – The Integrated Services acquisition was immaterial and accordingly no adjustment would be made to incentive outcomes;
 – The UrbanGrid acquisition was immaterial and accordingly no adjustment would be made to incentive outcomes;
 – The divestment of the Freight Rail business was a material, unbudgeted transaction for which it was appropriate to adjust 

incentive outcomes;

 – The acquisition of Envista was a material, unbudgeted transaction for which it was appropriate to adjust incentive outcomes; and
 – Costs related to the Spotless acquisition for integration, senior management redundancy and completion of Strategy Reset were 

material and unbudgeted and it was appropriate to adjust incentive outcomes.

Annual Report 2018  43

7.4.2  Significant items 
During the year there were three significant one-off items. The Board considers such items at the end of each performance period and 
whether it is appropriate to adjust for their impact on incentive outcomes. In forming its views, the Board noted the robust operational 
performance of the Company and strong returns to shareholders through TSR returns of 11.1% and 85.1% over one and three years 
respectively, share price growth and increase in the dividend rate.

The Board considered it was appropriate to adjust incentive outcomes for the following items:

Item

Description

Mining goodwill impairment

In February 2018, a $76.4 million non-cash impairment of goodwill in the Mining 
business was made.

Organisational restructuring costs

The earnings of the Mining division in 2018 (excluding the impairment) were below target 
threshold levels and accordingly the Mining Division did not meet its 2018 earnings gate for STI 
purposes. The negative impact of the lower earnings have also been reflected in the 2018 Group 
earnings for STI and LTI purposes.

The Mining division has subsequently won contracts including at the Blackwater, Carrapateena, 
Century and CSA mines.

The Board noted the negative impact on the STI outcomes from reduced Mining earnings 
(excluding the impairment) and that there had been no noticeable negative impact on the share 
price from the impairment and that shareholder returns continued to be strong, with TSR of 11.1% 
over one year and 85.1% over three years, share price growth and an increase in the dividend rate 
recorded for FY18. 

Accordingly, the Board determined that it was appropriate to adjust incentive outcomes for 
the impairment.

In 2018, the following management restructures were implemented:
 – The Mining Division was merged with the Engineering, Construction and Maintenance 

Division to form a new Division: Mining, Energy and Industrial Services; and

 – The Rail Division was merged into the Infrastructure Services Division to form the Transport 

and Infrastructure Division.

The Board believes that maintaining flexibility in adapting to changing markets is important to the 
achievement of Downer’s objectives, including creating shareholder wealth and that management 
should be encouraged to make decisions in the best interests of the Company without the 
influence of incentive outcomes. The restructures will also deliver significant synergies. 

Implementation of these restructures in 2018, rather than in a future reporting period was 
considered to be in the best interest of Downer, notwithstanding that allowance for restructuring 
costs was not made in the budget.

Accordingly, it was determined that it was appropriate to adjust incentive outcomes for this item.

Auburn Maintenance 
Centre remediation

Ground subsidence at the Auburn (Waratah) Train Maintenance Centre was identified in 2014. 
Downer has since completed rectification work and pursued associated legal claims.

In March 2018, Downer was unsuccessful in respect of the contractual claims related to the 
ground subsidence and as a result expensed unbudgeted remediation and legal costs of 
approximately $25 million which it had expected to recover.

The Board noted that this was a legacy issue and that current management had appropriately 
overseen the remediation work and the legal claim.

Notwithstanding, no adjustment was made to incentive outcomes for this item.

44  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20187.4.3  Adjustments made to incentive calculations for major transactions and significant items
The Board determined that the following adjustments be made to KPI calculations for the impact of major transactions and significant 
items. The adjustments mean that executives are ‘no better or worse off’ as a result of the transactions and significant items so that 
performance is measured against delivery of the Company’s budget and business plan.

Measure

Adjustment

Impact on STI

Impact on LTI

NPATA (STI)
NPAT (LTI)

Net increase of $159.2 million comprised of:
 – Exclusion of loss on divestment of Freight Rail 

of $40.6 million;

 – Exclusion of Mining goodwill impairment 

of $76.4 million;

 – Exclusion of Divisional merger costs 

of $20.0 million;

 – Exclusion of Spotless related costs (management 
redundancies, integration and residual strategy 
reset costs) of $24.1 million; and 

 – Exclusion of operating earnings of Envista (net of 

transaction costs) of $1.9 million.

Net decrease of $67.2 million comprised of:
 – Exclusion of the net proceed on divestment of 

Freight Rail of $109.0 million; and

 – Exclusion of the cash flow impact on Envista 
acquisition (transaction costs, net interest 
expense, operating cash and payment for business 
acquisition) of $41.8 million.

FFO

For Corporate 
scorecard participants:
 – the gateway was  

met; and

 – 58.4% of the NPATA 

measure was achieved.

An increase from nil to 
52.4% of rights in the NPAT 
tranche met the performance 
condition. This equates to 
8.7% of the total number of 
rights in the grant.

For Mining scorecard 
participants, the gateway was 
not met and no STI was paid.

No change.

No change.

Zero Harm

The Zero Harm performance of acquired businesses 
has been excluded. 

EPS

 – The use of NPAT adjusted as set out above; and
 – Exclusion of shares issued under the capital 
raising from the weighted average number of 
shares calculation.

Not applicable as acquired 
businesses historical 
performance has been 
measured on a different basis.

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

No change.

TSR

No adjustments were made.

Not applicable.

No change.

7.4.4  Future periods
For major transactions completed in 2018, the impact on operational performance is included in the 2019 budget and accordingly no 
adjustments are expected in respect of FY19 operational performance. 

7.5  Variance from policy
There were no variances from policy during the year.

Annual Report 2018  45

 
8.  Executive equity ownership

8.1  Ordinary shares
KMP equity holdings in fully paid ordinary shares and performance rights issued by Downer EDI Limited are as follows:

Ordinary shares

Performance rights

Balance at
1 July 2017

Net 
change

Balance at
30 June 2018

Balance at
1 July 2017

Net 
change

Balance at
30 June 2018

No.

826,226
10,407
–
1,000
–
–

No.

–
–
–
–
–
2,510

No.

826,226
10,407
–
1,000
–
2,510

No.

1,757,163
626,421
94,411
–
–
170,016

No.

128,217
72,774
70,584
66,240
–
70,584

No.

1,885,380
699,195
164,995
66,240
–
240,600

G A Fenn
S Cinerari
M J Ferguson
S L Killeen
D Nelson
B C Petersen

KMP equity holdings in fully paid ordinary shares issued by Spotless Group Holdings Limited are as follows:

D Nelson

Ordinary shares

Balance at
1 July 2017

Net 
change

Balance at
30 June 2018

No.
634,377

No.
(634,377)

No.
–

8.2  Preference shares
KMP equity holdings in fully paid preference shares issued by Works Finance (NZ) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Downer EDI 
Limited, are as follows:

Preference shares

Balance at
1 July 2017

Net 
change

Balance at
30 June 2018

No.
3,000

No.
–

No.
3,000

S L Killeen

46  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20188.3  Options and rights
No performance options were granted by Downer EDI Limited or exercised during the 2018 financial year.

As outlined in section 6.4.1, the LTI plan for the 2018 financial year is in the form of performance rights. Relief from certain regulatory 
requirements was applied for and has been received from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. During the year, 
grants of performance rights were made to KMP in respect of the 2018 financial year. 

The following table shows the number of performance rights granted by Downer EDI Limited and percentage of performance rights 
that vested or were forfeited during the year for each grant that affects compensation in this or future reporting periods.

2015 Plan

2016 Plan

2017 Plan

2018 Plan

Number
of per-
formance
 rights1

541,920
170,705
–
–
–
–

Vested
%

Forfeited
%

–
–
–
–
–
–

37.6
37.6
–
–
–
–

Number
of per-
formance
 rights2

711,717
266,894
–
–
–
63,017

Vested
%

Forfeited
%

–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–

Number
of per-
formance
 rights3

503,526
188,822
94,411
–
–
106,999

Vested
%

Forfeited
%

Number 
of per-
formance
 rights4

Vested
%

Forfeited
%

–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–

332,160
137,016
70,584
66,240
–
70,584

–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–

G A Fenn
S Cinerari
M J Ferguson
S L Killeen
D Nelson
B C Petersen

Grant date 2 June 2015. The fair value of shares granted was $4.23 per share for the EPS and Scorecard tranches and $1.70 per share for the TSR tranche.
1 
Grant date 30 June 2016. The fair value of shares granted was $3.24 per share for the EPS and Scorecard tranches and $0.97 per share for the TSR tranche.
2 
3 
Grant date 21 June 2017. The fair value of shares granted was $5.29 per share for the EPS and Scorecard tranches and $4.61 per share for the TSR tranche.
4  Grant date 21 June 2018. The fair value of shares granted was $6.12 per share for the EPS and Scorecard tranches and $3.38 per share for the TSR tranche.

KMP equity holdings in options and rights issued by Spotless Group Holdings Limited are as follows:

Options

Rights

Balance at
1 July 2017

No.
1,484,089

Net 
change

Balance at
30 June 2018

Balance at
1 July 2017

Net 
change

Balance at
30 June 2018

No.
(272,177)

No.
1,211,912

No.
348,838

No.
(348,838)

No.
–

D Nelson

The following table shows the number of options and rights granted by Spotless Group Holdings Limited and percentage of 
performance rights that vested or lapsed during the year for each grant that affects compensation in this or future reporting periods.

2014 Options

2015 Options

2016 Rights

Number
of per-
formance
 rights1
272,177

Vested
%
–

Forfeited
%
100

Number
of per-
formance
 rights2
1,211,912

Vested
%
–

Forfeited
%
–

Number
of per-
formance
 rights3
348,838

Vested
%
100

Forfeited
%
–

D Nelson

1 

2 

3 

Grant date 23 May 2014. The fair value of options granted was $0.213 per option for the EPS tranche and $0.209 per option for the TSR tranche. The exercise price was 
$1.60 per option.
Grant date 28 September 2015. The fair value of options granted was $0.251 per option for the EPS tranche and $0.238 per option for the TSR tranche. The exercise price 
was $2.07 per option.
Grant date 24 November 2016. The fair value of rights granted was $0.744 per right for the EPS tranche and $0.496 per right for the TSR tranche.

Annual Report 2018  47

The maximum number of performance options and rights that may vest in future years that will be recognised as share-based 
payments in future years is set out in the table below:

G A Fenn
S Cinerari
M J Ferguson
S L Killeen
D Nelson1
B C Petersen

Maximum number of shares  
for the vesting year

2019

337,977
106,463
–
–
1,211,912
–

2020

711,717
266,894
–
–
–
63,017

2021

503,526
188,822
94,411
–
–
106,999

2022

332,160
137,016
70,584
66,240
–
70,584

1 

Options granted to D Nelson that may vest in future years relate to shares in Spotless Group Holdings Limited.

The maximum value of performance options and rights that may vest in future years that will be recognised as share-based payments 
in future years is set out in the table below. The amount reported is the value of share-based payments calculated in accordance with 
AASB 2 Share-based Payment over the vesting period.

G A Fenn

S Cinerari
M J Ferguson
S L Killeen
D Nelson1
B C Petersen

2019
1,625,831

625,922
211,475
86,340
–
276,607

2020
1,070,144

417,539
211,475
86,340
–
227,405

2021
432,953

178,593
92,002
86,340
–
92,002

1 

Options granted to D Nelson that may vest in future years relate to shares in Spotless Group Holdings Limited.

8.4  Remuneration consultants
Guerdon Associates Pty Ltd was engaged by the Board Remuneration Committee to provide remuneration advice in relation to KMP, 
but did not provide the Board Remuneration Committee with remuneration recommendations as defined under Division 1, Part 1.2, 
9B (1) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

The Board was satisfied that advice received was free from any undue influence by Key Management Personnel to whom the advice 
may relate, because strict protocols were observed and complied with regarding any interaction between Guerdon Associates Pty Ltd 
and management, and because all remuneration advice was provided to the Board Remuneration Committee chair.

9.  Key terms of employment contracts

9.1  Notice and termination payments
Executives are on contracts with no fixed end date.

The following table captures the notice periods applicable to termination of the employment of executives.

Termination notice 
period by Downer

Termination notice 
period by employee

Termination payments 
payable under contract

Managing Director

Other Executives

12 months

12 months

6 months

6 months

12 months

12 months

Termination payments are calculated based upon total fixed remuneration at the date of termination. No payment is made for 
termination due to gross misconduct.

48  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 20189.2  Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Downer’s employment agreement
Mr Fenn was appointed as the Managing Director of Downer commencing on 30 July 2010. The following table sets out the key terms 
of the Managing Director’s employment agreement.

Term

Until terminated by either party.

Fixed remuneration

STI opportunity

LTI opportunity

Termination

$2.0 million per annum. This has remained unchanged since July 2012.
Fixed remuneration includes superannuation and non-cash benefits but excludes entitlements to 
reimbursement for Mr Fenn’s home telephone rental and call costs, home internet costs and medical, life and 
salary continuance insurance. Mr Fenn may also be accompanied by his wife when travelling on business, at the 
Chairman’s discretion. There was no such travel during the year.

Mr Fenn is eligible to receive an annual STI and the maximum STI opportunity is 100% of fixed remuneration. 
Any entitlement to an STI is at the discretion of the Board, having regard to performance measures and targets 
developed in consultation with Mr Fenn including Downer’s financial performance, safety, people, environmental 
and sustainability targets and adherence to risk management policies and practices. The Board also retains 
the right to vary the STI by + or – 100% (up to the 100% maximum) based on its assessment of performance. 
The STI deferral arrangements in place for KMP apply to Mr Fenn.
There is no STI entitlement where the Managing Director’s employment terminates prior to the end of the 
financial year, other than in the event of a change in control or by mutual agreement.

Mr Fenn is eligible to participate in the annual LTI plan and the value of the award is 100% of fixed remuneration 
calculated using the volume weighted average price after each year’s half yearly results announcement.
Mr Fenn’s performance requirements have been described in section 6.4.
In the event of a change of control, providing at least 12 months of a grant’s performance period have elapsed, 
unvested shares and performance rights pro rated with the elapsed service period are tested for vesting with 
performance against the relevant hurdles for that period and vest, as appropriate. Shares that have already been 
tested, have met performance requirements and are subject to the completion of the service condition, fully vest.

Immediately for misconduct or other circumstances justifying summary dismissal; or

Mr Fenn can resign:
a)  By providing six months’ written notice; or
b)  Immediately in circumstances where there is a fundamental change in his role or responsibilities. In these 
circumstances, Mr Fenn is entitled to a payment in lieu of 12 months’ notice.
Downer can terminate Mr Fenn’s employment:
c) 
d)  By providing 12 months’ written notice.
When notice is required, Downer can make a payment in lieu of notice of all or part of any notice period 
(calculated based on Mr Fenn’s fixed annual remuneration).
If Mr Fenn resigns because ill health prevents him from continuing his duties, he will receive a payment in 
recognition of his past services equivalent to 12 months’ fixed remuneration. At the discretion of the Board, his 
shares under the LTI plan may also vest.
If Downer terminates Mr Fenn’s employment on account of redundancy, in addition to the notice (or payment in 
lieu of notice) required to be given by Downer, Mr Fenn will receive a payment in recognition of his past services 
equivalent to 12 months’ fixed remuneration.
If Mr Fenn resigns he will be subject to a six-month post-employment restraint in certain areas where the Downer 
Group operates, where he is restricted from working for competitive businesses.

Other

The agreement contains provisions regarding leave entitlements, duties, confidentiality, intellectual property, 
moral rights and other facilitative and ancillary clauses. It also contains provisions regarding corporate 
governance and a provision dealing with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) limits on termination benefits to be 
made to Mr Fenn.

Annual Report 2018  49

10.  Related party information

10.1  Transactions with other related parties
Transactions entered into during the year with Directors of Downer EDI Limited and the Group are within normal employee, customer 
or supplier relationships on terms and conditions no more favourable than dealings in the same circumstances on an arm’s length 
basis and included;
 – the receipt of dividends from Downer EDI Limited;
 – participation in the Long Term Incentive Plan;
 – terms and conditions of employment; and 
 – reimbursement of expenses.

A number of Directors of the Company hold directorships in other entities. Several of these entities transacted with the Group on terms 
and conditions no more favourable than those available on an arm’s length basis.

11.  Description of Non-executive Director remuneration

11.1  Non-executive Director remuneration policy
Downer’s Non-executive Director remuneration policy is to provide fair remuneration that is sufficient to attract and retain Directors 
with the experience, knowledge, skills and judgment to steward the Company.
There has been no change to the level of Non-executive Director fees since the prior reporting period and there will be no changes in 
the 2019 financial year.
Fees for Non-executive Directors are fixed and are not linked to the financial performance of the Company. The Board believes this is 
necessary for Non-executive Directors to maintain their independence.
Shareholders approved an annual aggregate cap of $2.0 million for Non-executive Director fees at the 2008 AGM. The allocation of 
fees to Non-executive Directors within this cap has been determined after consideration of a number of factors, including the time 
commitment of Directors, the size and scale of the Company’s operations, the skill sets of Board members, the quantum of fees paid to 
Non-executive Directors of comparable companies and participation in Board Committee work.
The basis of fees and the fee pool are reviewed when new Directors are appointed to the Board, when the structure of the Board 
changes, or at least every three years. Reference is made to individual Non-executive Director fee levels and workload (i.e. number of 
meetings and the number of Directors) at comparably sized companies from all industries other than the financial services sector, and 
the fee pools at these companies. In addition, an assessment is made on the extent of flexibility provided by the fee pool to recruit any 
additional Directors for planned succession after allocation of fees to existing Directors.
The Chairman receives a base fee of $375,000 per annum (inclusive of all Committee fees) plus superannuation. The other Non-
executive Directors each receive a base fee of $150,000 per annum plus superannuation. Additional fees are paid for Committee duties: 
$35,000 for the chair of the Audit & Risk Committee; and $15,000 for the chair of each of the Zero Harm Committee, Remuneration 
Committee, Rail Projects Committee and Tender Risk Evaluation Committee.
Non-executive Directors are not entitled to retirement benefits. All Non-executive Directors are entitled to payment of statutory 
superannuation entitlements in addition to Directors’ fees.

50  Downer EDI Limited

Directors’ Report – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 201811.2  Non-executive Directors’ remuneration
The table below sets out the remuneration paid to Non-executive Directors for the 2018 and 2017 financial years.

Short-term benefits

Post-employment benefits

Board fee
$

Chair fee
$

Total fees
$

Superannuation
$

Termination
benefits
$

375,000
375,000
150,000
150,000
150,000
150,000
150,000
114,454
4,566
–
50,833
150,000
150,000
150,000

–
–
35,000
35,000
15,000
15,000
15,000
11,250
–
–
–
11,250
30,000
18,750

375,000
375,000
185,000
185,000
165,000
165,000
165,000
125,704
4,566
–
50,833
161,250
180,000
168,750

35,625
35,625
17,575
17,575
15,675
15,675
15,675
11,942
434
–
4,829
15,319
17,100
16,031

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Year

2018
2017
2018
2017
2018
2017
2018
2017
2018
2017
2018
2017
2018
2017

Total
$

410,625
410,625
202,575
202,575
180,675
180,675
180,675
137,646
5,000
–
55,662
176,569
197,100
184,781

R M Harding

S A Chaplain

P S Garling

T G Handicott

N M Hollows

E A Howell

C G Thorne

11.3  Equity held by Non-executive Directors
The table below sets out the equity in Downer held by Non-executive Directors for the 2018 and 2017 financial years.

2018

2017

Balance at
 1 July 2017

Net 
change

Balance at
 30 June 2018

Balance at
1 July 2016

Net 
change

Balance at
30 June 2017

R M Harding
S A Chaplain
P S Garling
T G Handicott
N M Hollows
C G Thorne

14,210
103,799
16,940
14,000
–
82,922

–
–
–
–
–
–

14,210
103,799
16,940
14,000
–
82,922

10,150
74,142
12,100
–
–
59,230

4,060
29,657
4,840
14,000
–
23,692

14,210
103,799
16,940
14,000
–
82,922

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Directors made pursuant to section 298(2) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth). 

On behalf of the Directors

R M Harding  
Chairman
Sydney, 16 August 2018 

Annual Report 2018  51

Auditor’s Independence Declaration

Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under 
Section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 

To the Directors of Downer EDI Limited 

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit of Downer EDI Limited for 
the year ended 30 June 2018 there have been: 

no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Corporations 
Act 2001 in relation to the review; and 

no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit. 

i.

ii.

KPM_INI_01 

PAR_SIG_01 

PAR_NAM_01 

PAR_POS_01 

PAR_DAT_01 

PAR_CIT_01 

KPMG 

John Teer 
Partner 

Sydney 
16 August 2018 

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG 
network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG 
International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under 
Professional Standards Legislation.

52  Downer EDI Limited

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report
for the year ended 30 June 2018

Independent Auditor’s Report 

To the shareholders of Downer EDI Limited 

Report on the audit of the Financial Report 

Opinion 

We have audited the Financial Report of 
Downer EDI Limited (the Company). 

In our opinion, the accompanying Financial 
Report of the Company is in accordance 
with the Corporations Act 2001, including:  

•

•

giving a true and fair view of the
Group’s financial position as at 30
June 2018 and of its financial
performance for the year ended on
that date; and

complying with Australian Accounting
Standards and the Corporations
Regulations 2001.

The Financial Report comprises: 

•

•

Consolidated Statement of financial position as
at 30 June 2018

Consolidated Statement of profit or loss and
other comprehensive income, Consolidated
Statement of changes in equity, and
Consolidated Statement of cash flows for the
year then ended

• Notes including a summary of significant

accounting policies

• Directors’ Declaration.

The Group consists of the Company and the entities 
it controlled at the year-end or from time to time 
during the financial year. 

Basis for opinion 

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. We believe that the audit 
evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for 
the audit of the Financial Report section of our report.  

We are independent of the Group in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and the ethical 
requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics 
for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the Financial Report in 
Australia. We have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code. 

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International 
Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

Annual Report 2018  53

Independent Auditor’s Report – continued
for the year ended 30 June 2018

Key Audit Matters 

The Key Audit Matters we identified are: 

•

•

•

Recognition of revenue and 
transitional adjustment to AASB 15 
Revenue from Contracts with 
Customers  

Value of goodwill 

Acquisition of controlled entities 

Key Audit Matters are those matters that, in our 
professional judgement, were of most significance in 
our audit of the Financial Report of the current period.  

These matters were addressed in the context of our 
audit of the Financial Report as a whole, and in forming 
our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate 
opinion on these matters. 

Recognition of revenue and transitional adjustments to AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with 
Customers  

Refer to Note B2 ‘Revenue and other income’ ($12,620.2m) and Note G1(b) New accounting 
standards and interpretations not yet adopted. 

The key audit matter 

How the matter was addressed in our audit 

A substantial amount of the Group’s revenue 
relates to revenue from the rendering of 
services and construction contracts. Where 
these services and/or contracts have a long-
term duration, revenue and margin are 
recognised based on the stage of completion of 
individual contracts. This is predominantly 
calculated on the proportion of total costs 
incurred at the reporting date compared to the 
Group’s estimation of total costs of the 
contract. We focussed on these types of 
contracts due to the high level of estimation 
involved, in particular relating to: 

•

•

•

Forecasting total cost to complete at 
initiation of the contract, including the 
estimation of cost contingencies for 
contracting risks; 

Revisions to total forecast costs for certain 
events or conditions that occur during the 
performance of the contract, or are 
expected to occur to complete the 
contract; and 

The recognition of variations and claims, 
based on an assessment by the Group as 
to the probability the amount will be 
approved by the customer and therefore 
recovered.  

We focused on this area as a key audit matter 
due to the number and type of estimation 
events that may occur over the course of the 

Our procedures included:  

• We evaluated the Group’s process regarding 

accounting for the Group’s contract revenues. 
We tested controls such as: 

‒ the authorisation of monthly project 

valuations, which involves management 
review and approval of key contract KPIs, 
including cashflows;  

‒ management’s review assessment and 

approval of significant changes in work in 
progress balances; 

‒ management’s review assessment of 

project unapproved variations and claims, 
and responses to project risk ratings;  

‒ management’s review and approval of bid 
information including estimated project 
milestones, projected Earnings Before 
Interest and Tax (EBIT), Net Present Value 
(NPV), Return On Funds Employed (ROFE) 
and potential legal risks identified by the 
Group risk and legal team, as prescribed in 
the Group’s risk management process;  

• We undertook a sample of site visits (to both 
contract sites and commercial offices) across 
the Group’s major divisions and geographies 
to obtain a detailed understanding of the 
Group’s contract processes, their consistent 
application, and to understand the variety of 

54  Downer EDI Limited

 
contract life, leading to complex and 
judgemental revenue recognition from 
contracts.  

In addition to the above, the transition to the 
new accounting standard AASB15 Revenue 
from contracts with customers (AASB 15) (with 
effect from 1 July 2018 for the Group) has 
resulted in additional disclosure of the expected 
transition adjustments. We focussed on this as 
a key audit matter due to the audit effort 
required from: 

•

•

the complex nature of the changes to the 
accounting standard and the impact on 
services and construction contract 
accounting requiring senior team 
involvement; and 

the need to consider consistency in 
application of AASB 15 across the 
components of the Group.  

risk elements of the contracts;  

• We used data analytic routines to select a 
sample of contracts for testing based on a 
number of quantitative and qualitative factors. 
These factors included contracts with 
significant deterioration in margin, significant 
variations and claims, and factors which 
indicated to us a greater level of judgement 
was required by the Group when assessing 
the revenue recognition based on the 
estimates developed for current and forecast 
contract performance. For the sample 
selected, where relevant: 

‒ we read the contract terms and conditions 
to evaluate the individual characteristics of 
each contract reflected in the Group’s 
estimate; 

‒ we assessed the estimation of costs to 
complete by checking key forecast cost 
assumptions to underlying documentation 
such as Enterprise Bargaining Agreements 
for wage rates, previous purchase invoices 
for parts, and agreements with 
subcontractors;  

‒ we assessed the Group’s ability to forecast 
margins on contracts by analysing the 
accuracy of previous margin forecasts to 
actual outcomes;   

‒ we tested the variations and claims both 

within contract revenue and contract costs 
to underlying documentation, such as 
timesheets, correspondence with 
customers and objective time and cost 
claim experts (where applicable) for 
consistency and appropriateness with 
contract terms; 

‒ we evaluated the Group’s legal and external 
experts’ reports received on contentious 
matters to identify conditions indicating the 
inappropriate recognition of variations and 
claims. We checked the consistency of this 
to the inclusion or not of an amount in the 
estimates used for revenue recognition;   

‒ for contracts with significant variation and 
claim elements, we used our project 
management specialists to evaluate the 
claim elements for risk of non-recovery; and 

‒ we evaluated significant exposures to 
liquidated damages for late delivery of 

Annual Report 2018  55

Independent Auditor’s Report – continued
for the year ended 30 June 2018

contract works by assessing the variation 
registers, which track the nature, quantum 
and status of current exposures. 

We evaluated disclosures relating to the transition 
to AASB15. For a sample of contracts assessed by 
the Group for the transitional impacts of the new 
standard we evaluated the conclusions reached by 
the Group using our understanding of the 
contracts obtained in the procedures noted above, 
in the context of the requirements of AASB 15.   

We assessed the Group’s disclosures of the 
quantitative and qualitative considerations in 
relation to the transitional adjustment, by 
comparing these disclosures to our understanding 
of the matter and the requirements of the 
accounting standards. 

Value of goodwill 

Refer to C7 ‘Intangible assets’ ($2,351.5m). 

The key audit matter 

How the matter was addressed in our audit 

The Group has 6 groups of Cash Generating 
Units (CGU’s) for which the impairment of 
goodwill is assessed, including the recently 
acquired Spotless CGU group.  As a 
consequence, significant audit effort was 
required to assess this matter and the value of 
goodwill was therefore considered a key audit 
matter. 

We focussed on the following assumptions in 
the Group’s models as a result of the significant 
level of judgement applied by the Group: 

•

•

•

•

The determination of CGUs or groups of 
CGUs following the acquisitions made 
during the year; 

Budgeted future revenue, including the 
outcome of tenders, and costs; 

Discount rates; and 

Terminal growth rate. 

In addition to the above, the Group recorded a 
full impairment of goodwill for the Mining CGU 
at 31 December 2017.  

Our procedures included:  

• We evaluated the Group’s goodwill 

impairment assessment process and tested 
controls such as the review and approval of 
forecasts by management; 

• We considered the Group’s determination of 

their CGUs based on our understanding of the 
operations of the Group’s business and how 
independent cash inflows were generated, 
against the requirements of the accounting 
standards;  

• We obtained the Group’s value in use and 

FVLCOD models and checked amounts to a 
combination of the FY19 budget and the FY20-
FY21 business plan approved by the Board;  

•

Key inputs to the value in use and FVLCOD 
models included forecast revenue, costs, 
capital expenditure, discount rates and 
terminal growth rates. We challenged the key 
market based assumptions to published 
industry growth rates and industry reports. For 
non-market based assumptions we compared 
forecasts to historical costs incurred or 

56  Downer EDI Limited

 
 
margins. We also assessed the inclusion of 
key ongoing revenue contracts by comparing 
the margins in the impairment model to 
historical contract margins. For current 
tenders we assessed the probability weighting 
and margins based on our understanding of 
the business; 

• We assessed the accuracy of previous Group 

forecasting to inform our evaluation of 
forecasts included in the value in use and 
FVLCOD model. We applied increased 
scepticism to current period forecasts in areas 
where previous forecasts were not achieved 
and/or where future uncertainty is greater or 
volatility is expected;  

• We involved our valuation specialists, for 

those CGUs with a higher risk of impairment.  
Working with our valuation specialists we 
independently developed a discount rate 
range considered comparable using publicly 
available market data for comparable entities, 
adjusted by risk factors specific to the Group 
and the industry it operates in. Valuation 
specialists were also involved in assessing the 
value in use and FVLCOD model valuation 
methodology against the criteria in the 
accounting standards. This included the 
treatment of assumptions for capital 
expenditure, terminal value and the net 
present value calculation;  

• We performed sensitivity analysis on CGUs in 

two main areas, being the discount rate and 
terminal growth rate assumptions. For the 
CGUs with a higher risk of impairment we 
performed a range of sensitivity analyses. This 
included the discount rate and terminal growth 
rate assumptions, revenue growth and cost 
savings targets set by the Group, as well as 
probability adjusting the outcomes of key 
tenders;  

• We assessed the Group’s disclosures of the 
quantitative and qualitative considerations in 
relation to the valuation of goodwill, by 
comparing these disclosures to our 
understanding of the matter and the 
requirements of the accounting standards. 

Annual Report 2018  57

 
 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report – continued
for the year ended 30 June 2018

Acquisition of controlled entities  

Refer to F2 ‘Acquisition of businesses’’ ($475.9m) 

The key audit matter 

How the matter was addressed in our audit 

Our procedures included: 

• We read the Bidders Statement and Sale and 
Purchase Agreements (as applicable) to 
understand key terms and conditions; 

• We evaluated the methodology used for the 
acquisition accounting against accounting 
standard requirements and common industry 
practice for the determination of fair value; 

• We challenged key assumptions in the 
Group’s intangible valuation models by 
comparing these inputs to historic and current 
entity records, and strategic plans; 

• Working with our valuation specialists, for the 

Spotless acquisition we evaluated the 
valuation methodology and assumptions used 
by the external expert in the Group’s 
determination of the fair value of identifiable 
intangibles acquired to the requirements of 
the accounting standards and publicly available 
market data for comparable entities, adjusted 
by risk factors specific to the Group and the 
industry it operates in;  

• We assessed the scope of work, capability, 
competence and objectivity of the external 
expert used by the Group to value the 
Spotless acquired intangibles; 

• We compared the acquired company’s 
accounting policies against the Group’s 
policies;  

• We assessed the adequacy of the Group’s 

disclosures in respect of the acquisitions 
against the requirements of accounting 
standards and our knowledge of the 
transactions. 

During the year the Group purchased controlling 
interests in a number of businesses/entities and 
finalised the purchase accounting for a number 
of business combinations previously 
provisionally accounted for (including Spotless 
Group Holdings Limited).  

Accounting for the purchase of controlling 
interests in a number of businesses/entities 
acquired during the year and the finalisation of 
the previously provisional purchase accounting 
is a key audit matter due to the: 

•

•

•

•

Aggregated size of the acquisitions; 

The complexity of the finalisation of the 
provisional accounting for Spotless Group 
Holdings Limited (Spotless) which included 
the use of an external expert engaged by 
the Group to value acquired intangibles, 
requiring our assessment; 

Early status of the acquisition accounting 
for certain transactions, which remain 
provisional at year end. This increases the 
possible range of outcomes for the auditor 
to consider and is impacted by the reduced 
precision of audit evidence; and 

Significance of the estimation required for 
the Group to determine the fair values, of 
acquired assets and liabilities under the 
accounting standards, for those 
transactions where the acquisition 
accounting has been finalised. 

We focused on assessing the basis for the 
estimations against the allowed criteria in the 
accounting standards to determine fair value 
and the documentation available from the 
Group to date. For those acquisitions where the 
purchase accounting has been completed the 
key inputs to the valuations were forecast 
assumptions relating to: 

•
•
•
•

revenue,  
operating costs,  
the impact of contributory assets, and 
discount rates. 

58  Downer EDI Limited

 
Other Information 

Other Information is financial and non-financial information in Downer EDI Limited’s annual reporting 
which is provided in addition to the Financial Report and the Auditor's Report.  The Directors are 
responsible for the Other Information.  

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the Other Information and, accordingly, we do not 
express an audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon, with the exception of the 
Remuneration Report and our related assurance opinions. 

In connection with our audit of the Financial Report, our responsibility is to read the Other 
Information. In doing so, we consider whether the Other Information is materially inconsistent with 
the Financial Report or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially 
misstated. 

We are required to report if we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this Other 
Information, and based on the work we have performed on the Other Information that we obtained 
prior to the date of this Auditor’s Report we have nothing to report. 

Responsibilities of the Directors for the Financial Report 

The Directors are responsible for: 

• preparing the Financial Report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian 

Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 2001 

•

•

implementing necessary internal control to enable the preparation of a Financial Report that 
gives a true and fair view and is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or 
error 

assessing the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern and whether the use of the going 
concern basis of accounting is appropriate. This includes disclosing, as applicable, matters 
related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless they either 
intend to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do 
so.  

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report 

Our objective is: 

•

•

to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Financial Report as a whole is free from 
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and  

to issue an Auditor’s Report that includes our opinion.  

Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in 
accordance with Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it 
exists. 

Misstatements can arise from fraud or error. They are considered material if, individually or in the 
aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on 
the basis of the Financial Report. 

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report is located at the 
Auditing and Assurance Standards Board website at: 
http://www.auasb.gov.au/auditors_responsibilities/ar1.pdf This description forms part of our Auditor’s 
Report. 

Annual Report 2018  59

 
Independent Auditor’s Report – continued
for the year ended 30 June 2018

Report on the Remuneration Report 

Opinion 

Directors’ responsibilities 

In our opinion, the Remuneration Report 
of Downer EDI Limited for the year ended 
30 June 2018, complies with Section 
300A of the Corporations Act 2001. 

The Directors of the Company are responsible for the 
preparation and presentation of the Remuneration 
Report in accordance with Section 300A of the 
Corporations Act 2001. 

Our responsibilities 

We have audited the Remuneration Report included in 
pages 21 to 51 of the Directors’ report for the year 
ended 30 June 2018.  

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 
Remuneration Report, based on our audit conducted in 
accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. 

KPMG 

John Teer 

Partner 
Sydney 
16 August 2018 

Cameron Slapp 

Partner 
Sydney 
16 August 2018 

60  Downer EDI Limited

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Statements

Page 62 
Page 63 
Page 64 
Page 65 

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income 
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

A

B

C

D

E

F

About this  
report

Business 
performance

Operating assets 
and liabilities

Employee 
benefits 

Capital structure  
and financing

Group 
structure

G

Other 

Page 66-67

Page 68-77

Page 78-87

Page 88

Page 89-95

Page 96-106

Page 107-120

D1
Employee benefits

E1
Borrowings 

F1
Joint arrangements 
and associate 
entities

G1
New accounting 
standards

D2
Key management 
personnel 
compensation

D3
Employee discount 
share plan

E2
Financing facilities

F2
Acquisition of 
businesses

G2
Capital and financial 
risk management

E3
Commitments 

F3
Disposal of 
business

G3
Other financial 
assets and liabilities

E4
Issued capital

F4
Controlled entities

E5
Reserves 

E6
Dividends

F5
Related party 
information

F6
Parent entity 
disclosures

B1
Segment 
information

C1
Reconciliation 
of cash and 
cash equivalents

B2
Profit from ordinary 
activities

C2
Trade and other 
receivables 

B3
Earnings per share 

B4
Taxation

B5
Remuneration 
of auditors

B6
Subsequent events

C3
Rendering of 
services and 
construction 
contracts

C4
Inventories 

C5
Trade and other 
payables

C6
Property, plant 
and equipment 

C7
Intangible assets

C8
Provisions

C9
Contingent 
liabilities

Page 121  Directors’ Declaration 

Other information

Page 122  Sustainability Performance Summary 2018
Page 127  Corporate Governance
Page 136 

Information for Investors

Annual Report 2018  61

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income
for the year ended 30 June 2018 

Revenue from ordinary activities
Other income

Total revenue and other income

Employee benefits expense
Subcontractor costs
Raw materials and consumables used
Plant and equipment costs
Depreciation and amortisation
Other expenses from ordinary activities

Total expenses

Share of net profit of joint ventures and associates

Earnings before interest and tax

Finance income
Finance costs

Net finance costs

Profit before income tax
Income tax expense

Profit after income tax

Profit for the year is attributable to:
 – Non-controlling interest
 – Members of the parent entity

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
 – Exchange differences arising on translation of foreign operations
 – Net gain / (loss) on foreign currency forward contracts taken to equity
 – Net loss on cross currency and interest rate swaps taken to equity
 – Change in fair value of available-for-sale assets
 – Available-for-sale reserve transferred to profit or loss
 – Income tax relating to components of other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income / (loss) for the year (net of tax)

Other comprehensive income for the year is attributable to:
 – Non-controlling interest
 – Members of the parent entity

Other comprehensive income / (loss) for the year

Total comprehensive income for the year

Earnings per share (cents)
 – Basic earnings per share
 – Diluted earnings per share(i)

Note

B2(a)
B2(a)

D1

C6,C7

F1(a)

B4(a)

B3
B3

2018
$’m

12,016.6 
14.3 
 12,030.9 

(4,034.2)
(3,781.3)
(2,199.9)
(677.1)
(370.2)
(788.5)
(11,851.2)

25.1

 204.8

7.1 
(88.2)
(81.1)

 123.7 
(52.6)
 71.1 

(0.3)
 71.4 
 71.1 

(8.3)
4.8 
(14.0)
(1.3)
(0.5)
2.6 
(16.7)

0.7 
(17.4)
(16.7)

 54.4 

 10.7 
 10.7 

2017
$’m

7,267.1
20.3
7,287.4

(2,787.3)
(1,740.8)
(1,357.0)
(502.8)
(220.2)
(424.0)
(7,032.1)

22.5

277.8

14.4
(41.2)
(26.8)

251.0
(69.5)
181.5

–
181.5
181.5

0.4
(1.9)
(2.6)
18.3
(19.1)
0.9
(4.0)

–
(4.0)
(4.0)

177.5

35.8
35.0

(i) At 30 June 2018, the ROADS are deemed anti-dilutive and consequently, diluted EPS remained at 10.7 cents per share.
The consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income should be read in conjunction with the accompanying 
notes on pages 66 to 120.

62  Downer EDI Limited

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
as at 30 June 2018

ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables(i)
Other financial assets
Inventories
Current tax assets
Prepayments and other assets
Total current assets

Non-current assets
Trade and other receivables(i)
Interest in joint ventures and associates
Property, plant and equipment(i)
Intangible assets(i)
Other financial assets
Deferred tax assets(i)
Prepayments and other assets
Total non-current assets
Total assets

LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Borrowings
Other financial liabilities
Employee benefits provision
Provisions(i)
Current tax liabilities
Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities
Trade and other payables(i)
Borrowings
Other financial liabilities
Employee benefits provision
Provisions(i)
Deferred tax liabilities(i)
Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets

EQUITY
Issued capital
Reserves
Retained earnings
Parent interests
Non-controlling interest
Total equity

Note

C1(c)
C2
G3
C4

F1(a)
C6
C7
G3
B4(b)

C5
E1
G3
D1
C8

E1
G3
D1
C8
B4(b)

E4
E5

F2

30June 
2018
$’m

30June 
2017
$’m

 606.2 
 2,121.9 
 18.6 
 268.8 
69.3 
 48.8 
 3,133.6 

 117.7 
 96.0 
 1,280.4 
 3,050.7 
 15.5 
75.5 
 18.8 
 4,654.6 
 7,788.2 

 2,281.6 
 153.7 
 43.2 
 336.7 
 50.7 
15.7 
 2,881.6 

 26.5 
 1,367.5 
 34.2 
 38.0 
 65.1 
 170.2 
 1,701.5 
 4,583.1 
 3,205.1 

 2,421.9 
(26.9)
 655.1 
 3,050.1 
155.0 
 3,205.1 

844.6
1,722.0
12.5
301.7
45.5
49.5
2,975.8

64.6
88.0
1,280.4
3,031.2
17.1
95.8
31.7
4,608.8
7,584.6

1,761.0
863.2
23.8
365.4
70.1
7.2
3,090.7

30.7
581.8
21.7
38.2
53.2
181.8
907.4
3,998.1
3,586.5

2,421.8
(10.9)
740.4
3,151.3
435.2
3,586.5

(i)  June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances.
The consolidated statement of financial position should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes on pages 66 to 120.

Annual Report 2018  63

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
for the year ended 30 June 2018

2018  
$’m

Issued  
capital

Reserves

Retained 
earnings

Total 
attributable 
to owners of 
the parent

Non- 
controlling 
interest

Total

435.2
(0.3)

3,586.5
71.1 

Balance at 1 July 2017
Profit after income tax
Other comprehensive income for the year 
(net of tax)

Total comprehensive income for the year

Capital raising 
(net of transaction costs and tax)
Vested executive incentive share transactions
Share-based employee benefits expense
Income tax relating to share-based 
transactions during the year
Payment of dividends(i)
Acquisition of non-controlling interest

Balance at 30 June 2018

2,421.8
–

–
–

(0.1)
0.2 
–

–
–
–
2,421.9 

(10.9)
–

(17.4)
(17.4)

–
(0.2)
2.8 

(1.2)
–
–
(26.9)

740.4
71.4 

–
71.4 

–
–
–

–
(156.7)
–
655.1 

3,151.3
71.4 

(17.4)
54.0 

(0.1)
–
2.8 

(1.2)
(156.7)
–
3,050.1 

(i)  Payment of dividend relates to the 2017 final dividend, 2018 interim dividend and $8.0m ROADS dividends paid during the financial year.

0.7 
0.4 

–
–
–

–
–
(280.6)
155.0 

2017 
$’m

Balance at 1 July 2016
Profit after income tax
Other comprehensive income for the year 
(net of tax)
Total comprehensive income for the year

Capital raising 
(net of transaction costs and tax)(i)
Acquisition of business(ii)
Vested executive incentive share transactions
Share-based employee benefits expense
Income tax relating to share-based 
transactions during the year
Payment of dividends(iii)
Balance at 30 June 2017

Issued  
capital

1,427.8
–

–
–

993.0
–
1.0
–

–
–
2,421.8

Reserves

Retained 
earnings

Total 
attributable 
to owners of 
the parent

Non– 
controlling 
interest

(8.8)
–

(4.0)
(4.0)

–
–
(1.0)
5.6

(2.7)
–
(10.9)

669.5
181.5

–
181.5

–
–
–
–

–
(110.6)
740.4

2,088.5
181.5

(4.0)
177.5

993.0
–
–
5.6

(2.7)
(110.6)
3,151.3

–
–

–
–

–
435.2
–
–

–
–
435.2

(16.7)
54.4 

(0.1)
–
2.8 

(1.2)
(156.7)
(280.6)
3,205.1 

Total

2,088.5
181.5

(4.0)
177.5

993.0
435.2
–
5.6

(2.7)
(110.6)
3,586.5

(i)  Relates to capital raising for the Spotless takeover bid. Refer to Note E4.
(ii)  Non-controlling interest as a result of Spotless acquisition. Refer to Note F2.
(iii)  Payment of dividends relates to 2016 final dividend, 2017 interim dividend and ROADS dividends paid during the financial year.
The consolidated statement of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes on pages 66 to 120.

64  Downer EDI Limited

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
for the year ended 30 June 2018

Cash flows from operating activities
Receipts from customers
Distributions from equity accounted investees
Payments to suppliers and employees
Interest received
Interest and other costs of finance paid
Income tax paid

Net cash generated by operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Payments for property, plant and equipment
Payments for intangible assets
Payments for acquisition of Spotless
Payments for businesses acquired
Proceeds from sale of business
Receipts from investments
Advances (to) / from joint ventures
Proceeds from sale of assets

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities
Net proceeds from capital raising
Issue of shares (net of costs)
Proceeds from borrowings
Repayments of borrowings
Dividends paid

Net cash (used in) / generated by financing activities

Net (decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
Effect of exchange rate changes

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

Note

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

F1(a)

C1(a)

F2
F2
F3

E4(a)
E4(b)

12,856.9 
16.9 
(12,164.3)
7.4 
(77.6)
(56.0)
583.3 

7,957.7
17.9
(7,462.0)
11.4
(34.4)
(49.0)
441.6

22.7 
(356.8)
(47.0)
(391.8)
(84.1)
129.6 
0.4 
(7.1)
4.5 
(729.6)

– 
(0.2)
2,043.9 
(1,974.7)
(156.7)
(87.7)

(234.0)
844.6 
(4.4)
606.2 

23.2
(203.6)
(37.9)
(636.1)
(143.2)
–
0.6
1.2
–
(995.8)

989.9
–
321.2
(370.0)
(110.6)
830.5

276.3
569.4
(1.1)
844.6

The consolidated statement of cash flows should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes on pages 66 to 120.

Annual Report 2018  65

Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the year ended 30 June 2018

A

About this report

Statement of compliance

Accounting estimates and judgements

These financial statements represent the consolidated results 
of Downer EDI Limited (ABN 97 003 872 848). The consolidated 
Financial Report (Financial Report) is a general purpose 
financial statement which has been prepared in accordance 
with Australian Accounting Standards (AASBs) adopted by 
the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) and the 
Corporations Act 2001 (Cth). The Financial Report complies 
with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adopted 
by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

The Financial Report was authorised for issue by the Board 
of Directors on 16 August 2018.

Rounding of amounts

Downer is a company of the kind referred to in ASIC Corporations 
(Rounding in Financial/Directors’ reports) Instrument 2016/191, 
relating to the “rounding off” of amounts in the Directors’ 
Report and consolidated financial statements. Unless otherwise 
expressly stated, amounts have been rounded off to the nearest 
whole number of millions of dollars and one place of decimals 
representing hundreds of thousands of dollars in accordance 
with that Instrument. Amounts shown as $– represent amounts 
less than $50,000 which have been rounded down.

Basis of preparation

The Financial Report has been prepared on a historical cost 
basis, except for the revaluation of certain financial instruments. 
Cost is based on the fair values of the consideration given in 
exchange for assets. All amounts are presented in Australian 
dollars, unless otherwise noted.

The accounting policies and methods of computation in the 
preparation of the Financial Report are consistent with those 
adopted and disclosed in Downer’s Annual Report for the 
financial year ended 30 June 2017, except in relation to the 
relevant amendments and their effects on the current period 
or prior periods as described in Note G1.

As previously disclosed, Downer obtained control in Spotless 
Group Holdings Limited (Spotless) on 27 June 2017. However, 
at 30 June 2017, the Group did not consolidate the trading 
performance of Spotless as part of the Group’s consolidated 
profit or loss and cash flow as the Directors concluded that 
Spotless’ profit or loss and cash flow impact for the three days to 
30 June 2017 was not material to the Downer Group. 

Downer has commenced the consolidation of Spotless with 
effect from 30 June 2017. As at 30 June 2018, Downer holds a 
relevant interest of 87.8% (2017: 65.7%). Refer to Note F2.

66  Downer EDI Limited

Preparation of the Financial Report requires management to 
make judgements, estimates and assumptions about future 
events. Information on material estimates and judgements 
considered when applying the accounting policies can be 
found in the following notes:

Accounting estimates and 
judgements 

Revenue recognition

Recovery of deferred tax assets

Income taxes

Capitalisation of tender/bid costs

Useful lives and residual values 

Impairment of assets

Provisions

Annual leave and long service leave

Accounting for acquisition of businesses

Note 

Page

B2

B4

B4

C2

C6

C7

C8

D1

F2

71

75

75

79

81

83

86

88

102

Significant accounting policies

Accounting policies are selected and applied in a manner that 
ensures that the resulting financial information satisfies the 
concepts of relevance and reliability, thereby ensuring that 
the substance of the underlying transactions or other events 
is reported. Other significant accounting policies are contained 
in the notes to the Financial Report to which they relate.

(i) Principles of consolidation
The Financial Report incorporates the financial statements 
of the Company and entities controlled by the Group and its 
subsidiaries. The Group controls an entity when it is exposed 
to, or has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with 
the entity and has the ability to affect those returns from its 
involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those 
returns through its power over the entity.

The Financial Report includes the information and results 
of each subsidiary from the date on which the Company 
obtains control and until such time as the Company ceases 
to control such entity.

In preparing the Financial Report, all intercompany balances 
and transactions, and unrealised profits arising within the 
consolidated entity, are eliminated in full.

A. About this report – continued

(ii) Foreign currency
Transactions, assets and liabilities denominated in foreign 
currencies are translated into Australian dollars at reporting date 
using the following applicable exchange rates:

Foreign currency amount 

Applicable exchange rate

Transactions 
Monetary assets and liabilities Reporting date
Non-monetary assets and 
liabilities carried at fair value 

Date of transaction

Date fair value is determined

Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from translation are 
recognised in the statement of profit or loss, except for qualifying 
cash flow hedges which are deferred to equity.

On consolidation the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of 
foreign operations are translated into Australian dollars using the 
following applicable exchange rates:

Foreign currency amount 
Income and expenses 
Assets and liabilities 
Equity
Reserves 

Applicable exchange rate
Average exchange rate
Reporting date
Historical date
Reporting date

Foreign exchange differences resulting from translation are 
initially recognised in the foreign currency translation reserve 
and subsequently transferred to the profit or loss on disposal 
of the foreign operation.

(iii) Finance and borrowing costs
Finance costs comprise interest expense on borrowings, cost 
to establish financing facilities (which are expensed over the 
term of the facility), losses on ineffective hedging instruments 
that are recognised in profit or loss and finance lease charges.

(iv) Available‑for‑sale financial assets
Available-for-sale financial assets are stated at fair value less 
impairment. Gains and losses arising from changes in fair value 
are recognised directly in the available-for-sale revaluation 
reserve, until the investment is disposed of or is determined 
to be impaired or control of an acquiree is obtained, at which 
time the cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in the 
available-for-sale revaluation reserve is included in the profit 
or loss for the year.

Annual Report 2018  67

B

Business performance

This section provides the information that is most relevant to understanding the financial performance of the Group during 
the financial year and, where relevant, the accounting policies applied and the critical judgements and estimates made.

B1. Segment information
B2. Profit from ordinary activities
B3. Earnings per share

B1. Segment information 

Identification of reportable segments
An operating segment is a component of an entity that engages 
in business activities from which it may earn revenue and incur 
expenses, whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the 
Group’s chief operating decision maker in order to effectively 
allocate Group resources and assess performance.

The Group has identified its operating segments based on the 
internal reports that are reviewed and used by the Group CEO 
in assessing performance and in determining the allocation of 
resources. The operating segments are identified by the Group 

The reportable segments identified within the Group are outlined below:

Service line

Segment description 

B4. Taxation
B5. Remuneration of auditors
B6. Subsequent events

based on the nature of the services provided. Discrete financial 
information about each of these operating businesses is reported 
to the Group CEO on a recurring basis.

The reportable segments are based on a combination of operating 
segments determined by the similarity of the services provided, 
and the sources of the Group’s major risks that could therefore 
have the greatest effect on the rates of return. Downer has 
determined that reportable segments are best represented 
as service lines.

Transport 

Utilities

Comprises the Group’s road, rail infrastructure, bridge, airport and port businesses and provides a broad range 
of transport infrastructure services including: earthworks; civil construction; asset management; maintenance; 
surfacing and stabilisation; supply of bituminous products and logistics; open space and facilities management; 
and rail track signalling and electrification works.

Comprises the Group’s power, gas, water, renewable energy and telecommunications businesses. This includes: 
planning, designing, constructing, operating, maintaining, managing and decommissioning power and gas network 
assets; providing complete water lifecycle solutions for municipal and industrial water users including pipeline 
bursting and civil maintenance; and design, build and maintenance services for wind farms, wind turbine sites 
and solar farms; as well as feasibility, design, civil construction, network construction, commissioning, testing, 
operations and maintenance across fibre, copper and radio networks as well as data centre services, automated 
ticketing and intelligent transport technology solutions.

Rail

Provides total rail asset solutions including passenger build, operations and maintenance, component overhauls 
and after-market services.

Engineering, 
Construction 
and Maintenance 
(EC&M)

Provides design, engineering, construction and maintenance services for greenfield and brownfield projects 
across a range of sectors and all stages of the project lifecycle including: feasibility studies; engineering design; 
civil works; structural, mechanical and piping; electrical and instrumentation; mineral process equipment design 
and manufacture; commissioning; operations maintenance; shutdowns, turnarounds and outages; strategic asset 
management; and decommissioning.

Mining

Spotless 

Provides services across all stages of the mining lifecycle including: asset management; blasting services, explosive 
supply; civil projects; crushing; exploration drilling; mine closure and mine site rehabilitation; mobile plant maintenance; 
open cut mining; training and development for ATSI employees; tyre management; and underground mining.

Spotless operates in Australia and New Zealand and provides outsourced facility services, catering and laundry 
services, technical and engineering services, maintenance and asset management services and refrigeration 
solutions to various industries. 

68  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018B1. Segment information – continued
2018 
$’m

Transport Utilities Spotless

Rail

EC&M Mining 

Un-
allocated

Total

Revenue 
Inter-segment sales
Total segment revenue 

2,743.2 
–
2,743.2 

1,783.0 
–
1,783.0 

3,093.7 
–
3,093.7 

732.0  2,382.9 
–
732.0  2,382.9 

–

1,309.4 
–
1,309.4 

12,067.1 
22.9 
(36.2)
(36.2)
(13.3) 12,030.9 

Share of sales revenue from joint ventures 
and associates(i)
Total revenue including joint ventures 
and other income(i)
Share of net profit of joint ventures 
and associates
Depreciation and amortisation

EBIT before amortisation of 
acquired intangibles (EBITA)
Amortisation of acquired intangibles
Total reported segment results (EBIT)

Net finance costs
Total profit before tax

73.8 

–

8.1 

437.2 

21.2 

49.0 

–

589.3 

2,817.0 

1,783.0 

3,101.8 

1,169.2 

2,404.1 

1,358.4 

(13.3) 12,620.2 

9.7 
44.6 

–
22.3 

0.4 
94.9

142.9 
(0.4)
142.5 

94.8 
(2.1)
92.7 

167.7 
(11.0)
156.7 

13.7 
9.9 

39.2 
–
39.2 

(1.3)
18.5 

2.6 
126.6 

–
53.4

25.1 
370.2 

70.6 
(5.0)
65.6 

50.4 
–
50.4 

(294.1)
(48.2)
(342.3)

271.5 
(66.7)
204.8 

(81.1)
123.7

Acquisition of segment assets 
Segment assets
Segment liabilities
Carrying value of equity accounted investees

74.0 
1,203.2
530.8 
 11.9 

34.1 
797.8
422.0 
–

134.2 
2,754.3
1,399.7
1.5 

83.7 
686.0 
402.3 
 71.2 

105.3 
950.1
553.5 
 4.0 

134.3 
804.8
271.7
 7.4 

20.7 
592.0
1,003.1
–

586.3 
7,788.2 
4,583.1 
96.0 

Transport Utilities Spotless

Rail

EC&M Mining 

Un-
allocated

Total

2017 
$’m

Revenue 
Inter-segment sales
Total segment revenue 

Share of sales revenue from joint ventures 
and associates(i)
Total revenue including joint ventures 
and other income(i)
Share of net profit of joint ventures 
and associates
Depreciation and amortisation

EBIT before amortisation of 
acquired intangibles (EBITA)
Amortisation of acquired intangibles
Total reported segment results (EBIT)

Net finance costs
Total profit before tax

2,091.1 
–
2,091.1 

1,517.3
–
1,517.3

62.3

–

2,153.4 

1,517.3

8.5
40.6

124.9
(0.3)
124.6

–
21.6

84.1
–
84.1

–
–
–

–

–

–
–

–
–
–

Acquisition of segment assets 
Segment assets
Segment liabilities
Carrying value of equity accounted investees

114.9
1,080.3
391.5
10.0

55.2
746.7
404.6
–

2,137.2
2,715.5
1,410.1
1.8

467.1
–
467.1

1,974.2 
–
1,974.2 

1,250.8
–
1,250.8

19.8
(32.9)
(13.1)

7,320.3
(32.9)
7,287.4

383.1

30.1

49.4

–

524.9

850.2

2,004.3

1,300.2

(13.1)

7,812.3

11.7
10.9

30.3
–
30.3

51.9
572.1
141.3
64.5

(0.6)
15.3

52.6
(0.3)
52.3

2.9
116.4

83.4
–
83.4

–
15.4

22.5
220.2

(90.1)
(6.8)
(96.9)

285.2
(7.4)
277.8

(26.8)
251.0

95.5
719.1
413.4
5.3

102.2
836.3
264.5
6.4

37.0
914.6
972.7
–

2,593.9
7,584.6
3,998.1
88.0

(i)  This is a non-statutory disclosure as it relates to Downer’s share of revenue from equity accounted joint ventures and associates.

Annual Report 2018  69

B1. Segment information – continued

Reconciliation of segment net operating profit to net profit after tax:

Segment net operating profit

Unallocated:
Mining goodwill impairment
Divestment of Freight Rail
Auburn Rail claim
Divisional merger costs
Spotless management redundancies and integration costs
Spotless residual strategy reset costs
Spotless integration costs
Spotless transaction costs(i)
Bid costs written off(ii)
Amortisation of Spotless and Tenix acquired intangible assets
Settlement of contractual claims
Corporate costs

Total unallocated 

Earnings before interest and tax
Net finance costs

Profit before income tax
Income tax expense

Profit after income tax

Segment results 

Note 

B2(b)
B2(b)
B2(b)
B2(b)
B2(b)
B2(b)
B2(b)
B2(b)
B2(b)

B4(a)

2018
$’m 

547.1 

(76.4)
(50.2)
(25.0)
(28.5)
(9.4)
(11.3)
(7.3)
–
–
(48.2)
–
(86.0)
(342.3)

204.8 
(81.1)
123.7 
(52.6)
71.1 

2017
$’m 

374.7

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
4.6
(13.0)
(6.8)
(5.0)
(76.7)
(96.9)

277.8
(26.8)
251.0
(69.5)
181.5

(i)   Represents the net of costs incurred as a result of the Spotless takeover offer, offset by other income and revaluation of initial 19.99% investment in Spotless at 

$1.15 per share.

(ii)   Downer was a member of the Constellation Rail consortium. On 18 August 2016, the consortium was advised that it had not been successful in its bid to deliver and maintain 

the New Intercity Fleet (NIF) for Transport for NSW. Accordingly, an amount of $10.0 million, referable to Downer’s share of pre-tax bid costs, has been expensed. 
Downer was also a member of the Creative Learning consortium. On 17 January 2017, the consortium was advised that it had not been successful in its bid to design, 
construct and maintain the NZ Schools PPP project for the Ministry of Education. Accordingly, an amount of $3.0 million, referable to Downer’s share of pre-tax bid costs, 
has been expensed.

Total revenue(i)

Segment assets

Acquisition of 
segment assets

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

9,517.2 
2,444.9 
–
50.9 
14.5 
3.4 
12,030.9 

5,704.8
1,538.7
–
29.2
12.6
2.1
7,287.4

6,779.7
946.1
2.7 
42.8 
14.0 
2.9 
7,788.2 

6,730.4
794.7
7.5
36.4
13.4
2.2
7,584.6

538.0 
47.1 
0.1 
0.8 
0.2 
0.1 
586.3 

2,462.4
128.9
–
1.2
1.4
–
2,593.9

By geographic location(ii)
Australia
New Zealand and Pacific
Asia
Africa
South America
Other

Total

(i)   Total revenue includes other income and inter-segment sales, recorded at amounts equal to competitive market prices charged to external customers for similar goods 

or services.

(ii)   Revenue and assets are allocated based on geographical location of the legal entity.

70  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018 
B2. Profit from ordinary activities

a) Revenue and other income

Sales revenue 
Rendering of services
Construction contracts
Sale of goods
Other revenue
Total revenue from 
ordinary activities

Fair value gain on 
available-for-sale asset(i)
Other income on 
available-for-sale asset(i)
Other

Other income
Total revenue and other income

Share of sales revenue from joint 
ventures and associates(ii)
Total revenue including 
joint ventures and associates 
and other income(ii)

2018  
$’m 

2017 
$’m 

8,896.3
2,788.9
291.2 
40.2 

5,773.5 
1,250.9 
220.1 
22.6 

12,016.6 

7,267.1 

–

19.1 

–
14.3 
14.3 
12,030.9 

0.7 
0.5 
20.3 
7,287.4 

589.3 

524.9 

12,620.2 

7,812.3 

(i)  For 30 June 2017, this relates to other income and revaluation of initial 19.99% 

investment in Spotless at $1.15 per share. Refer to Note B2(b).

(ii)  This is a non-statutory disclosure as it relates to Downer’s share of revenue from 

equity accounted joint ventures and associates.

Recognition and measurement
Revenue
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration 
received or receivable. Revenue is recognised if it meets the 
criteria below.

(i) Rendering of services
The Group primarily generates service revenue from the 
following activities:
 – Maintenance and management of transport infrastructure;
 – Utilities infrastructure maintenance services (gas, 

power and water); 

 – Maintenance and installation of infrastructure in the 

telecommunications sector; 
 – Industrial plant maintenance;
 – Contract mining services, mining assets maintenance 

services, tyre management and blasting;
 – Rolling stock maintenance and rail asset 

management services;

 – Engineering and consultancy services; and
 – Facilities management.

These services are provided either under a fixed price service 
contract or a time and materials contract. Time and materials 
contract revenue is recognised at the contractual rates as labour 
hours are delivered and direct expenses are incurred.

Other short-term service contracts are recognised when the 
services are completed in accordance with the terms of the 
contract. Service contracts that have a long-term duration 
are recognised in proportion to the stage of completion at 
balance sheet date.

(ii) Construction contracts 
Construction contracts are contracts specifically negotiated 
for the construction of an asset or combination of assets 
(including rail and infrastructure assets). Revenue is recognised 
in proportion to the stage of completion of the contract at 
balance sheet date. 

(iii) Sale of goods
Revenue is recognised when the significant risks and rewards 
of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer. 

(iv) Other revenue 
Other revenue primarily includes rental income and government 
grants relating to research and development incentives received 
by the Group. The Group elects to present the net amount in 
“Other revenue” as allowed under AASB120 Accounting for 
Government grants and disclosure of Government assistance.

Key estimate and judgement: 
Revenue recognition
Determining the stage of completion requires an estimate 
of expenses incurred to date as a percentage of total 
estimated costs. Where variations and claims are made 
to the contract, assumptions are made regarding the 
probability that the customer will approve the variations 
and claims and the amount of revenue that will arise. 
Changes in these estimation methods could have a 
material impact on the financial statements of Downer.

Annual Report 2018  71

B2. Profit from ordinary activities – continued

b) Individually significant items
2018
The following material items are relevant to an understanding of the Group’s financial performance:

Divestment 
of freight 
rail 

Mining 
goodwill 
impairment

Auburn rail 
claim

Divisional 
merger 
costs

Spotless 
transaction 
related

Employee benefit expense
Other expenses from ordinary activities

Loss before interest and tax 
Net finance expense
Income tax benefit

Loss after income tax 

–
(50.2)

(50.2)
–
9.6

(40.6)

–
(76.4)

(76.4)
–
–

(76.4)

–
(25.0)

(25.0)
–
7.5

(17.5)

(12.7)
(15.8)

(28.5)
–
8.5

(20.0)

(10.7)
(17.3)

(28.0)
(4.8)
8.7

(24.1)

2018  
$’m

(23.4)
(184.7)

(208.1)
(4.8)
34.3

(178.6)

Divestment of freight rail
On 21 November 2017, Downer entered an agreement to sell its freight rail business to Progress Rail for $109 million ($122.7 million after 
adjusting for working capital movements). As a result of the transaction, Downer recognised a non-cash pre-tax write down of assets 
held for sale of $50.2 million ($40.6 million after tax). Refer to Note F3 for further details.

Mining goodwill impairment
Following the identification of possible impairment indicators, the Group undertook an assessment of the carrying value of the Mining 
business. As a result of this assessment, a goodwill impairment of $76.4 million was recognised as at 31 December 2017. Refer to Note 
C7 for further details.

Auburn rail claim
Downer was unsuccessful in its claim against John Holland Pty Ltd and others in relation to ground subsidence at some locations 
within the Waratah Train Maintenance Centre located at Auburn. This claim was previously disclosed as a contingent liability. 
The Auburn Rail claim costs represent legal and other costs incurred which were expected to be recovered as part of the proceedings. 
As a result of the unsuccessful claim, these costs were expensed. 

Divisional merger costs
Divisional merger costs incurred across the Group following the creation of Mining, Energy & Industrial (MEI) and Transport and 
Infrastructure (TI) divisions. These costs include redundancies, onerous lease provision and asset write-offs.

Spotless transaction
Spotless transaction related costs are classified in the statement of profit or loss as at 30 June 2018 as follows:

2018 
$’m
Spotless integration costs
Management redundancies and integration costs
Residual strategy reset costs

Earnings 
before 
interest  
and tax
(7.3)
(9.4)
(11.3)
(28.0)

Net  
Interest 
Expense

–
(3.3)
(1.5)
(4.8)

Income tax 
benefit
2.0 
3.0
3.7 
8.7 

Profit after 
income tax
(5.3)
(9.7)
(9.1)
(24.1)

For 30 June 2018, Spotless related transaction costs of $28.0 million includes $11.3 million of costs incurred in exiting contracts as 
part of Spotless’ strategy reset; $7.3 million of integration costs incurred during the period and $9.4 million Spotless’ management 
redundancies and other integration costs. 

72  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018B2. Profit from ordinary activities – continued

b) Individually significant items – continued
2017
Spotless transaction

2017 
$’m
Spotless transaction costs(i)
Fair value gain on available-for-sale asset(ii)
Other income on available-for-sale asset(ii)
Net finance income on Spotless takeover bid and 
capital raising(iii)

Earnings 
before 
interest  
and tax
(15.2)
19.1 
0.7 

–
4.6 

Note

B1

Net finance 
income (iii)

Income tax 
expense

–
–
–

1.7 
1.7 

–
(5.5)
(0.2)

(0.5)
(6.2)

Profit after 
income tax
(15.2)
13.6 
0.5 

1.2 
0.1 

(i)  Transaction costs incurred in relation to the takeover of Spotless. The expenses are classified as “Other expenses from ordinary activities” in the statement of profit or loss 

for the year ended 30 June 2017.

(ii)  Referable to the other income and revaluation of the initial 19.99% interest equivalent in Spotless (economic interest of 4.99% pursuant to a cash settled total return equity 
swap and 15.0% shareholding acquired immediately prior to the takeover bid) based on the offer share price of $1.15. The fair value gain is transferred from the available-for-
sale reserve to profit or loss on obtaining control and is classified as “Other income” in the statement of profit or loss for the year ended 30 June 2017.

(iii)  Net interest income from the capital raising proceeds received in relation to the Spotless acquisition. The net interest income is classified as part of “Net finance costs” in 

the statement of profit or loss for the year ended 30 June 2017.

Bid costs written‑off

New Intercity Fleet rail project(i)
NZ Schools PPP project(ii)

2018
$’m

–
–
–

2017
$’m

(10.0)
(3.0)
(13.0)

(i)  Downer was a member of the Constellation Rail consortium. On 18 August 2016, the consortium was advised that it had not been successful in its bid to deliver and maintain 

the New Intercity Fleet (NIF) for Transport for NSW. Accordingly, an amount of $10.0 million, referable to Downer’s share of pre-tax bid costs, has been expensed and 
classified as “Other expenses from ordinary activities” in the statement of profit or loss for the year ended 30 June 2017.

(ii)  Downer was a member of the Creative Learning consortium. On 17 January 2017, the consortium was advised that it had not been successful in its bid to design, construct 

and maintain the NZ Schools PPP project for the Ministry of Education. Accordingly, an amount of $3.0 million, referable to Downer’s share of pre-tax bid costs, has been 
expensed and classified as “Other expenses from ordinary activities” in the statement of profit or loss for the year ended 30 June 2017.

B3. Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share
The calculation of basic earnings per share (EPS) is based on the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders and the weighted average 
number of ordinary shares outstanding.

Profit attributable to members of the parent entity ($’m)
Adjustment to reflect ROADS dividends paid ($’m)

Profit attributable to members of the parent entity used in calculating EPS ($’m)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares (WANOS) on issue (m’s)

Basic earnings per share (cents per share)

2018

71.4 
(8.0)

63.4 

590.5 

10.7 

2017

181.5 
(8.6)

172.9 

483.6 

35.8 

Annual Report 2018  73

B3. Earnings per share – continued

Diluted earnings per share
The calculation of diluted EPS is based on the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders and the weighted average number of ordinary 
shares outstanding after adjustments for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

Profit attributable to members of the parent entity ($’m)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares

 – Weighted average number of ordinary shares (WANOS) on issue (m’s)(i)
 – WANOS adjustment to reflect potential dilution for ROADS (m’s)(ii)

WANOS used in the calculation of diluted EPS (m’s)

Diluted earnings per share (cents per share)(iii)

2018

71.4 

590.5 
27.8 
 618.3 

10.7 

2017

181.5 

483.6 
35.3 
518.9 

35.0 

(i)  For diluted EPS, the WANOS has been further adjusted by the potential vesting of executive incentive shares.
(ii)  The WANOS adjustment is the value of ROADS that could potentially be converted into ordinary shares at the reporting date. It is calculated based on the issued value of 

ROADS in New Zealand dollars converted to Australian dollars at the spot rate prevailing at the reporting date, which was $183.4 million (2017: $190.5 million), divided by the 
average market price of the Company’s ordinary shares for the period 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018 discounted by 2.5% according to the ROADS contract terms, which was 
$6.60 (2017: $5.40).

(iii)  At 30 June 2018, the ROADS are deemed anti-dilutive and consequently, diluted EPS remained at 10.7 cents per share.

B4. Taxation

a) Reconciliation of income tax expense
The prima facie income tax expense on profit before income tax reconciles to the income tax expense in the financial statements as follows:

Profit before income tax 
Tax using the Company’s statutory tax rate
Effect of tax rates in foreign jurisdictions
Non-deductible expenses
Profits and franked distributions from joint ventures and associates 
Non-taxable government grant
Impairment of goodwill
Non-taxable gains / losses
Other items
Under / (over) provision of income tax in previous year

Total income tax expense
Current tax expense
Deferred tax expense

2018
$’m 

123.7 
37.1 
(1.3)
1.0 
(5.6)
(2.6)
22.9
(1.8)
1.2
1.7 
52.6 
49.2 
3.4 

2017
$’m 

251.0 
75.3 
(1.3)
6.2 
(5.1)
(2.6)
–
–
(0.8)
(2.2)
69.5 
68.7 
0.8 

The tax rate used in the above reconciliation is the corporate tax rate of 30% payable by Australian corporate entities on taxable profits 
under Australian tax law. There has been no change in the corporate tax rate when compared with the previous year.

74  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Tax consolidation
Downer EDI Limited and its wholly owned Australian entities are 
part of a tax-consolidated group under Australian taxation law. 
Downer EDI Limited is the head entity in the tax consolidated 
group. Entities within the tax consolidated group have entered 
into a tax funding agreement and a tax sharing agreement 
with the head entity. Under the terms of the tax-funding 
agreement, Downer EDI Limited and each of the entities in the 
tax-consolidated group have agreed to pay (or receive) a tax 
equivalent payment to (or from) the head entity, based on the 
current tax liability or current tax asset of the entity. 

Key estimate and judgement: 
Recovery of deferred tax assets
Deferred tax assets are recognised for deductible 
temporary differences, unused tax losses and tax offsets, 
to the extent it is probable that sufficient future taxable 
profits will be available to utilise them. Judgement is 
required to determine the amount of deferred tax assets 
that can be recognised, based upon the likely timing and 
the level of future taxable profits.

Key estimate and judgement: Income taxes
The Group is subject to income taxes in Australia and 
jurisdictions where it has foreign operations. Judgement is 
required to determine the worldwide provision for income 
taxes and to assess whether deferred tax balances are 
recognised on the statement of financial position. Changes 
in circumstances will alter expectations, which may impact 
the amount of provision for income taxes and deferred tax 
balances recognised.

B4. Taxation – continued

Recognition and measurement
Current tax
Current tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount of 
income taxes payable or recoverable in respect of the taxable 
profit or tax loss for the period, it is calculated using tax rates 
and tax laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by 
the reporting date.

Deferred tax
Deferred tax is accounted for in respect of temporary differences 
arising from differences between the carrying amount of assets 
and liabilities and the corresponding tax base.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary 
differences. Deferred tax assets are recognised for all deductible 
temporary differences, unused tax losses and tax offsets, to the 
extent that it is probable that sufficient taxable profits will be 
available to utilise them.

However, deferred tax assets and liabilities are not 
recognised for:
 – taxable temporary differences that arise from the initial 

recognition of assets or liabilities in a transaction that is not 
a business combination which affects neither taxable income 
nor accounting profit;

 – taxable temporary differences relating to investments in 

subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures to the extent that 
the Group is able to control the timing of the reversal of the 
temporary differences and it is probable that they will not 
reverse in the foreseeable future; and

 – taxable temporary differences arising from goodwill.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates 
and tax laws that are expected to apply the year when the 
asset is utilised or liability is settled, based on tax rates and tax 
laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the 
reporting date.

Income taxes relating to items recognised directly in equity are 
recognised in equity and not in the income statement.

Offsetting deferred tax balances
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when they relate 
to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the 
Company/consolidated entity intends to settle its current tax 
assets and liabilities on a net basis.

Annual Report 2018  75

B4. Taxation – continued 

b) Movement in deferred tax balances

2018
$’m

Trade and other receivables

Inventories

Joint ventures and associates

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Income tax losses

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Other

Tax assets / (liabilities) before set-off

Set-off of DTA against DTL

Net tax assets / (liabilities)

Restated 
Net 
balance at 
1 July

Charged 
to income 
statement

Charged to 
compre-
hensive 
income 
and equity

Net foreign 
currency 
exchange 
differences

Acquisition 
and 
disposal

Net 
balance at 
30 June

Deferred 
tax assets

Deferred 
tax 
liabilities

1.6 
9.8 
0.2 
(19.3)
19.0 
7.4 
12.9 
(33.2)
(1.8)
(3.4)

(103.0)
(9.8)
(1.1)
(12.9)
(166.6)
25.1
20.8
156.5
5.0
(86.0)

–

(86.0)

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
1.6 
1.6 

0.8 
–
–
–
–
–
0.3 
(0.2)
0.1 
1.0 

0.1 
–
–
–
(16.5)
–
0.5 
6.3 
1.7 
(7.9)

(100.5)
–
(0.9)
(32.2)
(164.1)
32.5 
34.5 
129.4 
6.6 
(94.7)

–
–
–
–
–
32.5 
34.5 
129.4 
6.6 
203.0 

(100.5)
–
(0.9)
(32.2)
(164.1)
–
–
–
–
(297.7)

–

(127.5)

127.5 

(94.7)

75.5 

(170.2)

2017
$’m

Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Joint ventures and associates
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Income tax losses
Trade and other payables
Provisions
Other

Tax assets / (liabilities) before 
set-off
Set-off of DTA against DTL

Net tax assets / (liabilities)

Net 
balance at 
1 July

Charged 
to income 
statement

Charged 
to compre-
hensive 
income 
and equity

Net 
foreign 
currency 
exchange 
differences

Acquisition 
and 
disposal

Net 
balance at 
30 June

Adjust–
ment to 
opening 
balances

Restated 
Net 
balance at 
1 July(i)

Deferred 
tax 
assets(i)

Deferred 
tax 
liabilities(i)

3.6
(6.2)
0.2
(7.2)
1.8
–
11.5
1.0
(5.5)

(0.8)

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
6.0

6.0

(121.0)
(3.7)
(1.3)
(21.7)
(18.2)
–
8.4
99.6
0.2

(57.7)
–

(57.7)

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

1.1
0.1
–
12.9
(24.6)
25.1 
0.9
56.6
(16.4)

55.7

(116.3)
(9.8)
(1.1)
(16.0)
(41.0)
25.1 
20.8
157.2
(15.7)

3.2
–

3.2

13.3
–
–
3.1
(125.6)
–
–
(0.7)
20.7

(89.2)

(103.0)
(9.8)
(1.1)
(12.9)
(166.6)
25.1 
20.8
156.5
5.0

(86.0)
–

(86.0)

–
–
–
–
–
25.1 
20.8
156.5
5.0

207.4
(111.6)

95.8

(103.0)
(9.8)
(1.1)
(12.9)
(166.6)
–
–
–
–

(293.4)
111.6

(181.8)

(i)  June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances.

76  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018B5. Remuneration of auditors

B6. Subsequent events

Audit or review of financial reports:
Auditor of the Group – KPMG
Australia
Overseas

Auditor review of financial reports 
– Ernst & Young(i)

Non-audit services – KPMG
Tax services
Sustainability assurance
Due diligence and other 
non-audit services

2018 
$

2017
$

At the date of this report there is no matter or circumstance 
that has arisen since the end of the financial year that has 
significantly affected, or may significantly affect:

a)  The Group’s operations in future financial years;

b)  The results of those operations in future financial years; or

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

3,929,000 
721,000 
4,650,000 

2,546,000 
667,000 
3,213,000 

–
4,650,000 

1,600,000
4,813,000 

556,106
278,634 

719,955 
217,000 

950,457
1,785,197

1,066,814 
2,003,769

(i) 

In 2017, audit fees were paid by Spotless Group Holdings Limited for the full year 
audit, which includes the period prior to Downer taking control of Spotless. 

Annual Report 2018  77

C

Operating assets and liabilities

This section provides information relating to the operating assets and liabilities of the Group. Downer has a strong focus 
on maintaining a strong balance sheet through continued focus on cash conversion. The Group’s strategy also considers 
expenditure, growth and acquisition requirements.

C1.  Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents
C2.  Trade and other receivables
C3.  Rendering of services and construction contracts
C4. Inventories
C5.  Trade and other payables

C6.  Property, plant and equipment
C7.  Intangible assets
C8. Provisions
C9.  Contingent liabilities

C1. Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents

(a) Reconciliation of cash flows from operating activities

Profit after tax for the year
Adjustments for:

Share of joint ventures and associates’ profits net of distributions
Depreciation and amortisation of non-current assets
Amortisation of deferred costs
Net (gain) / loss on sale of property, plant and equipment
Loss on disposal of business
Impairment of intangibles
Research and development incentives
Foreign exchange gains
Movement in current tax balances
Movement in deferred tax balances
Share-based employee benefits expense
Fair value gain on available-for-sale assets
Bid costs written off
Other

Changes in net assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisition and disposal of businesses:
(Increase) / decrease in assets:

Current trade and other receivables
Current inventories
Other current assets
Non-current trade and other receivables
Other non-current assets

Increase / (decrease) in liabilities:

Current trade and other payables
Current financial liabilities
Current provisions
Non-current trade and other payables
Non-current financial liabilities
Non-current provisions

Net cash generated by operating activities

78  Downer EDI Limited

Note

C6,C7

B2(b)
B2(b)

D1
B2(b)
B2(b)

2018 
$’m

71.1

(8.2)
370.2 
5.7 
(14.2)
40.6 
76.4 
(8.7)
(0.1)
(7.5)
13.7 
2.8 
–
–
0.7
471.4

(479.1)
(17.2)
6.3
(53.8)
12.1

607.7
21.2
(41.8)
(13.9)
10.2
(10.9)
40.8
583.3

2017 
$’m

181.5

(4.6)
220.2
3.0
1.2
–
–
(8.5)
(0.5)
19.7
0.8
5.6
(19.1)
13.0
2.7
233.5

(159.8)
38.7
0.2
(5.1)
(0.4)

160.7
3.3
(4.8)
(10.2)
16.9
(12.9)
26.6
441.6

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018C1. Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents – continued

(b) Reconciliation of liabilities arising from financing activities

$’m

Interest bearing loans
Finance lease liabilities

Total liabilities from financing activities

(c) Cash and cash equivalents

For the purpose of the statement 
of cash flows, cash and cash 
equivalents comprises:
Cash(i)
Short-term deposits

2018
$’m 

2017
$’m 

321.4 
284.8 
606.2 

784.5 
60.1 
844.6 

(i)   As at 30 June 2017, in accordance with the Business Sale Agreement, the 

completion payment for the assets of Cabrini Health Limited ($20.0 million) 
was held on trust for Spotless (restricted cash) and released to Cabrini Health 
Limited on 1 July 2017.

C2. Trade and other receivables

Note

2018
$’m

2017(i)
$’m

Current
Trade receivables
Allowance for 
doubtful debts

Amounts due from 
customers under contracts 
and rendering of services
Other receivables

C3

Ageing profile of 
trade receivables
Neither past due 
nor impaired
Past due but not impaired
Impaired

842.0 

757.1

(15.3)
826.7 

(7.1)
750.0

1,203.4 
91.8 
2,121.9 

908.3
63.7
1,722.0

702.0 
124.7 
15.3 
842.0 

675.1
74.9
7.1
757.1

(i)  June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition 
accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances.

1 July
2017 

Net cash
flows

1,409.2 
35.8 
1,445.0 

87.6
(18.4)
69.2

Amortisation
and foreign
exchange 
movement

7.9 
(0.9)
7.0 

30 June 
2018

1,504.7
16.5
1,521.2

Recognition and measurement
Trade receivables
Trade receivables and other receivables are initially recognised 
at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost using the 
effective interest rate method, less an allowance for impairment. 

Fair value
Due to the short-term nature of these financial rights, their 
carrying amounts are estimated to represent their fair values.

Impairment of trade receivables
The Group has considered the collectability and recoverability 
of trade receivables. An allowance for doubtful debts has been 
made for the estimated irrecoverable trade receivable amounts 
arising from services provided, determined by reference to past 
default experience. 

Capitalisation of tender / bid costs 
When it is probable that a contract will be awarded, the 
expenditure incurred in relation to tender / bid costs is 
capitalised to amounts due from customers under contracts. 
Capitalised costs are expensed in accordance with contract 
accounting principles once the contract is awarded. Where 
a tender / bid is subsequently unsuccessful, the previously 
capitalised costs are immediately expensed. Tender / bid 
costs that have been expensed cannot be recapitalised in 
the subsequent financial year.

Key estimate and judgement: 
Capitalisation of tender / bid costs
Judgement is exercised in determining whether it is 
probable that the contract will be awarded. An error 
in judgement may result in capitalised tender / bid 
costs being recognised as an expense in the following 
financial year.

Annual Report 2018  79

C3. Rendering of services and 
construction contracts

C4. Inventories

Note

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

Current
Raw materials
Work in progress
Finished goods
Components and spare parts

2018 
$’m

176.9 
0.2 
47.6 
44.1 
268.8 

2017 
$’m

187.8
0.1
66.5
47.3
301.7

Recognition and measurement
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable 
value. Net realisable value represents the estimated selling price 
less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in 
marketing, selling and distribution.

C5. Trade and other payables

Note

2018 
$’m

2017 
$’m

Current
Trade payables
Amounts due to customers 
under contracts and 
rendering of services
Amounts owing in relation 
to Spotless shares 
acceptance
Accruals
Other

C3

F2

674.2

527.6

410.2 

288.2

–
1,084.4 
112.8 
2,281.6 

110.8
732.8
101.6
1,761.0

Recognition and measurement
Trade and other payables
Trade payables and other accounts payable are recognised when 
the Group becomes obliged to make future payments resulting 
from the purchase of goods and services.

Fair value
Due to the short-term nature of these financial obligations, their 
carrying amounts are estimated to represent their fair values.

Cumulative contracts 
in progress as at 
reporting date:
Cumulative costs incurred 
plus recognised profits less 
recognised losses to date
Less: progress billings

Net amount

Recognised and included 
in the financial statements 
as amounts due:
From customers under 
contracts
To customers under 
contracts

Net amount

5,019.9
(4,226.7)
793.2

7,361.4
(6,741.3)
620.1

C2

C5

1,203.4 

908.3

(410.2)
793.2 

(288.2)
620.1

Recognition and measurement
Services and construction contracts are reported in trade 
receivables and trade payables, as gross amounts due 
from / to customers.

If cumulative work done to date (contract costs plus contract 
net profit) of contracts in progress exceeds the progress 
payments received, the difference is recognised as an asset 
and included in amounts due from customers for contract 
work. If the net amount after deduction of progress payments 
received is negative, the difference is recognised as a liability 
and included in amounts due to customers for contract work.

80  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018C6. Property, plant and equipment

2018 
$’m

Carrying amount as at 1 July 2017 (restated)(iii)
Additions
Disposals at net book value
Acquisition of businesses(i)
Disposal of business at net book value
Depreciation expense 
Reclassifications at net book value
Reclassified as intangible assets(ii)
Net foreign currency exchange differences at net book value
Closing net book value as at 30 June 2018
Cost
Accumulated depreciation

2017

Carrying amount as at 1 July 2016
Additions
Disposals at net book value
Acquisition of businesses (restated)(iii)
Depreciation expense
Reclassifications at net book value 
Reclassified as intangible assets(ii)
Net foreign currency exchange differences at net book value
Closing net book value as at 30 June 2017 (restated)(iii)
Cost (restated)(iii)
Accumulated depreciation

Plant,  
equipment  
and  
leasehold 
improve-
ments

Freehold 
land and 
buildings

Equipment 
under 
finance 
lease

Laundries 
rental stock

129.4
0.5 
(5.6)
–
–
(5.1)
–
–
(0.4)
118.8
155.1
(36.3)

68.5
7.4
(0.1)
57.4
(4.7)
1.0
–
(0.1)
129.4
160.9
(31.5)

1,061.2
322.9 
(14.9)
3.2 
(60.0)
(229.5)
26.5 
(0.3)
(2.8)
1,106.3 
2,488.7 
(1,382.4)

859.9
212.7
(17.6)
180.2
(182.3)
18.7
(7.2)
(3.2)
1,061.2
2,355.4
(1,294.2)

52.3
7.9 
(14.4)
7.6 
–
(10.3)
(29.1)
–
0.1 
14.1 
34.1 
(20.0)

59.9
2.2
(0.2)
17.5
(6.2)
(19.7)
–
(1.2)
52.3
92.7
(40.4)

37.5
36.2 
–
1.5
–
(33.4)
2.6 
–
(3.2)
41.2
74.0
(32.8)

–
–
–
37.5
–
–
–
–
37.5
37.5
–

Total

1,280.4
367.5 
(34.9)
12.3 
(60.0)
(278.3)
–
(0.3)
(6.3)
1,280.4 
2,751.9 
(1,471.5)

988.3
222.3
(17.9)
292.6
(193.2)
–
(7.2)
(4.5)
1,280.4
2,646.5
(1,366.1)

(i)  The values recognised are based on the fair value of assets acquired from the business acquisitions made during the year ended 30 June 2018, for which the accounting on 

certain transactions remains provisional. Refer to Note F2.

(ii)  Refers to the reclassification of software from Capital work in progress to Intangible assets.
(iii)  June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances. Refer to Note F2.

Recognition and measurement
The value of property, plant and equipment is measured as the cost of the asset less accumulated depreciation and impairment.
The expected useful life and depreciation methods used are listed below:

Item
Freehold land 
Buildings 
Leasehold improvements 
Plant and equipment – mining, power and gas
Plant and equipment – other
Equipment under finance lease
Laundries rental stock

Useful life
n/a
20-50 years
Life of lease
Working hours
3-25 years 
5-15 years
18 months-5 years

Depreciation method
No depreciation
Straight-line 
Straight-line 
Based on hours of use
Straight-line 
Straight-line – lease term
Straight-line

Key estimate and judgement: Useful lives and residual values
The estimation of the useful lives and residual values of assets has been based on historical experience as well as manufacturers’ 
warranties (for plant and equipment), lease terms (for leased equipment and leasehold improvements) and turnover policies. 
In addition, the condition of the assets is assessed at least once per year and considered against the remaining useful life. 
Adjustments to useful lives and residual values are made when considered necessary.

Annual Report 2018  81

C7. Intangible assets

2018 
$’m

Carrying amount as at 1 July 2017 (restated)(iii)
Additions
Disposals at net book value
Acquisition of businesses(i)
Disposal of business at net book value
Reclassifications at net book value(ii)
Amortisation expense
Impairment of goodwill
Net foreign currency exchange differences 
at net book value
Closing net book value as at 30 June 2018
Cost
Accumulated amortisation and impairment

2017

Carrying amount as at 1 July 2016
Additions
Acquisition of businesses (restated)(iii)
Disposals of business at net book value
Reclassifications at net book value(ii)
Amortisation expense
Net foreign currency exchange differences 
at net book value
Closing net book value as at 30 June 2017 
(restated)(iii)
Cost (restated)(iii)
Accumulated amortisation and impairment

Goodwill

2,341.1
–
–
105.0 
(14.2)
–
–
(76.4)

(4.0)
2,351.5 
2,503.9 
(152.4)

805.3
–
1,533.0
–
–
–

2.8

2,341.1
2,417.1
(76.0)

Customer 
contracts 
 and 
relationships

Brand 
names on 
acquisition

Intellectual 
property on 
acquisition

Software 
and system 
development

409.1
–
–
34.5 
–
–
(62.6)
–

0.1 
381.1 
463.8 
(82.7)

37.1
–
379.2
–
–
(7.2)

–

409.1
429.3
(20.2)

56.9
–
–
21.7 
–
–
(3.9)
–

–
74.7 
78.7 
(4.0)

–
–
57.1
–
–
(0.2)

–

56.9
57.1
(0.2)

3.5
–
–
(1.1)
–
–
(0.2)
–

–
2.2 
2.4 
(0.2)

–
–
3.5
–
–
–

–

3.5
3.5
–

Total

3,031.2
46.4 
(0.2)
160.1 
(14.2)
0.3 
(91.9)
(76.4)

(4.6)
3,050.7 
3,443.7 
(393.0)

969.9
38.5
2,040.5
(0.7)
7.2
(27.0)

220.6
46.4 
(0.2)
–
–
0.3 
(25.2)
–

(0.7)
241.2 
394.9 
(153.7)

127.5
38.5
67.7
(0.7)
7.2
(19.6)

–

2.8

220.6
359.2
(138.6)

3,031.2
3,266.2
(235.0)

(i)  The values recognised are based on the fair value of assets acquired from the business acquisitions made during the year ended 30 June 2018, for which the accounting on 

certain transactions remains provisional. Refer to Note F2.

(ii)  Refers to the reclassification of software from Capital work in progress to Intangible assets.
(iii)  June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances. Refer to Note F2.

Recognition and measurement
Goodwill
Goodwill acquired in a business combination is measured at 
cost and subsequently measured at cost less any impairment 
losses. The cost represents the excess of the cost of a business 
combination over the fair value of the identifiable assets, 
liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired. 

Customer contracts and relationships on acquisition
Customer contracts and relationships acquired as part of 
a business combination are recognised separately from 
goodwill and are carried at fair value at date of acquisition 
less accumulated amortisation and any accumulated 
impairment losses.

Brand names on acquisition
Brand names acquired as part of a business combination are 
recognised separately from goodwill and are carried at fair value 
at date of acquisition less accumulated amortisation and any 
accumulated impairment losses.

Intellectual property on acquisition
Intellectual property acquired as part of a business combination 
is recognised separately from goodwill and is carried at fair value 
at date of acquisition less accumulated amortisation and any 
accumulated impairment losses.

82  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018C7. Intangible assets – continued

Intellectual property, software and system development
Intangible assets acquired by the Group, including intellectual 
property (purchased patents, trademarks and licences) and 
software are initially recognised at cost, and subsequently 
measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and any 
impairment losses. Internally developed systems are capitalised 
once the project is assessed to be feasible. The costs 
capitalised include consulting, licensing and direct labour 
costs. Costs incurred in determining project feasibility are 
expensed as incurred.

Amortisation
Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortised on a 
straight-line basis over their useful lives. The estimated useful 
lives are generally:

Item

Software and system development
Brand names
Customer contracts and relationships
Intellectual property acquired
Other intangible assets (other than 
indefinite useful life intangible assets)

Useful Life

5-15 years
20 years
1-20 years
15-20 years

20 years

Transport(i)
Utilities(iv)
Rail(ii)
EC&M(i)
Mining(iii)
Spotless(iv)

Allocation of goodwill to cash-generating units 
Goodwill has been allocated, for impairment testing purposes, 
to CGUs (group of units) that are significant individually or 
in aggregate, taking into consideration the nature of service, 
resource allocation, how operations are monitored and where 
independent cash inflows are identifiable. Six independent CGUs 
(by service line) have been identified across the Group against 
which impairment testing has been undertaken. Goodwill has 
been allocated to these CGUs as follows:

Note

B2(b)

Carrying value of 
consolidated goodwill

2018 
$’m

253.8 
348.4 
55.3 
281.9 
–
1,412.1 
2,351.5 

2017 
$’m

251.0
322.9
69.5
239.2
76.4
1,382.1
2,341.1

The estimated useful life and amortisation method are reviewed 
at the end of each annual reporting period.

(i) 

Included in this amount is the goodwill for certain acquisitions made during the 
year ended 30 June 2018, for which the accounting remains provisional.

(ii)  Rail CGU goodwill reduced following disposal of the Freight Rail business during 

Impairment of assets 
Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful 
life are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if 
events or changes in circumstances indicate that they might be 
impaired. Other assets are reviewed for impairment whenever 
events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying 
amount may not be recoverable. 

An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which 
the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. 
For the purpose of assessing impairment, assets are grouped 
at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable 
cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflows 
from other assets or groups of assets (cash-generating units or 
CGUs). Non-financial assets other than goodwill that suffered 
impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment 
at each reporting date.

the period. Refer to Note F3.

(iii)  The goodwill of the Mining CGU was fully impaired following an assessment 

of the carrying value of the CGU.

(iv)  June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition 
accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances.

Key estimate and judgement: 
Impairment of assets 
Determination of potential impairment requires an 
estimation of the recoverable amount of the CGUs to which 
the goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful 
lives are allocated. Key assumptions requiring judgement 
include projected cash flows, growth rate estimates, 
discount rates, working capital and capital expenditure.

Annual Report 2018  83

C7. Intangible assets – continued

Recoverable amount testing – key assumptions
The carrying value of Transport, Utilities, EC&M and Rail CGUs 
has been completed using a “value in use” model, consistent 
with prior periods. Following the impairment of the goodwill 
allocated to the Mining CGU as at 31 December 2017, the Mining 
CGU no longer carries an indefinite useful life intangible asset 
and therefore, impairment assessment is required only when 
an indicator of impairment exists. There were no indicators of 
impairment for the Mining CGU as at 30 June 2018.

The recoverable amount of the Spotless CGU is assessed as 
the fair value less costs of disposal (“FVLCOD”) estimated 
using discounted cash flows. The table below shows 
the key assumptions utilised in the “value in use” and 
FVLCOD calculations.

Budgeted 
EBITDA(i)

Long-term 
growth rate

Discount 
rate

Transport
Utilities
Rail
EC&M
Mining
Spotless

1.9%
0.3%
5.5%
9.4%
7.3%
7.3%

2.5%
2.5%
2.5%
2.5%
2.5%
2.5%

9.8%
9.8%
10.3%
9.8%
11.0%
8.5%

(i)  Budgeted EBITDA used for impairment testing is expressed as the compound 

annual growth rates from FY18 to terminal year based on the CGUs 
business plan.

(i) Projected cash flows
Value in use calculation
The Group determines the value in use calculations recoverable 
amount, using three year cash flow projections based on the 
FY19 budget for the year ending 30 June 2019 and the business 
plan for the subsequent financial years ending 30 June 2020 
and 2021 (as discussed with the Board). For FY22 onwards, the 
Group assumes a long-term growth rate to allow for organic 
growth on the existing asset base. 

Cash flow projections are determined utilising the budgeted 
Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation 
(EBITDA) less tax, capital maintenance spending and working 
capital changes, adjusted to exclude any uncommitted 
restructuring costs and future benefits to provide a “free cash 
flow” estimate. This calculated free cash flow is then discounted 
to its present value using a post-tax discount rate that reflects 
current market assessments of the time value of money and the 
risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash 
flows have not been adjusted.

Budgeted EBITDA has been based on past experience and the 
Group’s assessment of economic and regulatory factors affecting 
the industry within which the Downer businesses operate:

 – Transport is expected to benefit from an increase in activity 

in the transport infrastructure sector;

 – Utilities is expected to benefit from an increase in activity 

across the electricity, water and renewables sectors partially 
offset by the potential reduction in revenue from its existing 
significant telecommunication contracts;

 – Rail is expected to benefit from the two major projects (High 
Capacity Metro Trains and Sydney Growth Trains) in both the 
construction and long-term maintenance phases. In addition, 
closer integration with strategic partners is expected to 
continue to contribute to revenue and EBITDA growth; and
 – EC&M’s revenue and EBITDA include assumptions that take 
into account the cyclical nature of the resources industry 
and various growth opportunities.

FVLCOD calculations
As mentioned above, the Group determines the recoverable 
amount of the Spotless CGU using a FVLCOD calculation which 
is estimated using discounted cash flows. Key assumptions used 
in the estimation of the recoverable amount are described in 
the table above.

Similarly to the other CGUs, a three-year cash flow projection, 
based on the EBITDA as per the FY19 budget and the business 
plan for FY20 and FY21 was utilised. For FY22 onwards, the 
Group assumes a long-term growth rate to allow for organic 
growth on the existing asset base. Adjustments are made 
to these projections to include assumptions that a market 
participant would make, such as cash flows relating to 
restructuring and integration.

The cash flow projection is then adjusted to exclude tax, capital 
maintenance spending and working capital changes to provide a 
“free cash flow estimate” which is then discounted to its present 
value using a post-tax rate that reflects the current assessment 
of the time value of money.

Spotless’ revenue and EBITDA was estimated taking into account 
contracted work and the expected impact from business 
improvement initiatives and the expected benefit from growth 
opportunities in the Government sector.

(ii) Long‑term growth rates
The future annual growth rates for FY22 onwards to perpetuity 
are based on the historical nominal GDP rates for the 
country of operation.

84  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018C7. Intangible assets – continued

Recoverable amount testing – key assumptions – continued
(iii) Discount rates
Post-tax discount rates of between 8.5% and 11.0% reflect the Group’s estimate of the time value of money and risks specific to each 
CGU. In determining the appropriate discount rate for each CGU, consideration has been given to the estimated weighted average cost 
of capital (WACC) for the Group adjusted for country and business risks specific to that CGU, including benchmarking against relevant 
peer group companies. The post-tax discount rate is applied to post-tax cash flows that include an allowance for tax based on the 
respective jurisdiction’s tax rate. This method is used to approximate the requirement of the accounting standards to apply a pre-tax 
discount rate to pre-tax cash flows.

(iv) Budgeted capital expenditure
The cash flows for capital expenditure are based on past experience and the amounts included in the terminal year calculation are for 
maintenance capital used for existing plant and replacement of plant as it is retired from service. The resulting expenditure has been 
compared against the annual depreciation charge to ensure that it is reasonable.

(v) Budgeted working capital
Working capital has been maintained at a level required to support the business activities of each CGU, taking into account changes in 
the business cycle. It has been assumed to be in line with historic trends given the level of utilisation and operating activity.

Sensitivities
The Group believes that for all CGUs, any reasonably possible change in the key assumptions would not cause the carrying value of the 
CGUs to exceed their recoverable amounts.

C8. Provisions

2018
$’m

At 1 July 2017(i)
Additional provisions recognised
Unused provision reversed
Utilisation of provision
Acquisition of businesses
Disposal of business
Net foreign currency exchange differences

At 30 June 2018
Current
Non-current

Decommissioning 
and restoration

Warranties 
and contract 
claims

Onerous 
contracts 
and other

41.6 
3.6 
(7.3)
(5.5)
0.8 
–
(0.1)
33.1 
11.8 
21.3 

17.4 
7.2 
(2.4)
(5.1)
2.8 
–
(0.1)
19.8 
18.1 
1.7 

64.3 
17.2 
(10.6)
(26.8)
23.1 
(4.4)
0.1 
62.9 
20.8
42.1

Total

123.3 
28.0 
(20.3)
(37.4)
26.7 
(4.4)
(0.1)
115.8 
50.7
65.1

(i)  June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances. Refer to Note F2.

Recognition and measurement
Provisions
Provisions are recognised when:
 – the Group has a present obligation as a result of a past event;
 – it is probable that resources will be expended to settle the 

obligation; and

 – the amount of the provision can be measured reliably.

(i) Decommissioning and restoration
Provisions for decommissioning and restoration are made for 
close down, restoration and environmental rehabilitation costs, 
including the cost of dismantling and demolition of infrastructure, 
removal of residual materials and remediation of disturbed areas.

Future rectification costs are reviewed annually and any changes 
are reflected in the present value of the rectification provision at 
the end of the reporting period.

The provision is discounted using a pre-tax rate that reflects 
current market assessments of the time value of money and 
the risks specific to the liability.

Annual Report 2018  85

C8. Provisions – continued

C9. Contingent liabilities

(ii) Warranties and contract claims
Provisions for warranties and contract claims are made for 
the estimated liability on all products still under warranty at 
balance sheet date and known claims arising under service 
and construction contracts.

(iii) Onerous contracts and other
Provisions primarily include amounts recognised in relation to 
onerous customers, supply contracts, surplus lease contracts 
and return conditions provisions for leased assets. The Group 
has leases that require the leased asset to be returned to the 
lessor in a certain condition.

The onerous contract provision is discounted using a pre-tax 
rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value 
of money and the risks specific to the liability.

Key estimate and judgement: Provisions
(i) Decommissioning and restoration
Judgement is required in determining the expected 
expenditure required to settle rectification obligations at 
the reporting date, based on current legal requirements 
and technology.

(ii) Warranties and contract claims
The provision is estimated having regard to previous 
claims experience.

(iii) Onerous contracts and other
These provisions have been calculated based on 
management’s best estimate of discounted net cash 
outflows required to fulfil the contracts. The status of 
these contracts and the adequacy of provisions are 
assessed at each reporting date.

The return condition provision is estimated based on 
the costs associated with returning leased assets to the 
lessor in a certain condition.

Bonding

Note

2018
$’m 

2017
$’m 

The Group has bid bonds 
and performance bonds 
issued in respect of 
contract performance 
in the normal course of 
business for wholly-owned 
controlled entities

E2

1,341.6

1,185.5 

The Group is called upon to give guarantees and indemnities to 
counterparties, relating to the performance of contractual and 
financial obligations (including for controlled entities and related 
parties). Other than as noted above, these guarantees and 
indemnities are indeterminable in amount.

Other contingent liabilities
i)  The Group is subject to design liability in relation to 

completed design and construction projects. The Directors 
are of the opinion that there is adequate insurance to cover 
this area and accordingly, no amounts are recognised in 
the financial statements.

ii)  The Group is subject to product liability claims. Provision 

is made for the potential costs of carrying out rectification 
works based on known claims and previous claims history. 
However, as the ultimate outcome of these claims cannot 
be reliably determined at the date of this report, contingent 
liability may exist for any amounts that ultimately become 
payable in excess of current provisioning levels.

iii)  Controlled entities have entered into various joint 

arrangements under which the controlled entity is jointly 
and severally liable for the obligations of the relevant 
joint arrangements.

iv)  The Group carries the normal contractor’s and consultant’s 
liability in relation to services, supply and construction 
contracts (for example, liability relating to professional advice, 
design, completion, workmanship, and damage), as well as 
liability for personal injury / property damage during the 
course of a project. Potential liability may arise from claims, 
disputes and / or litigation / arbitration by or against Group 
companies and / or joint venture arrangements in which 
the Group has an interest. The Group is currently managing 
a number of claims, arbitration and litigation processes in 
relation to services, supply and construction contracts as 
well as in relation to personal injury and property damage 
claims arising from project delivery.

86  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018C9. Contingent liabilities – continued

v)  Several New Zealand entities in the Group have been named 
as co-defendants in five “leaky building” claims. The leaky 
building claims where Group entities are co-defendants 
generally relate to water damage arising from historical 
design and construction methodologies (and certification) 
for residential and other buildings in New Zealand during 
the early-mid 2000s. The Directors are of the opinion 
that disclosure of any further information relating to 
the leaky building claims would be prejudicial to the 
interests of the Group.

vi)  Ground subsidence at the Waratah Train Maintenance 
Centre, located on Manchester Road, Auburn (“AMC”) 
has been identified. The design and construction of 
the AMC formed part of the Waratah Train Project, with 
Reliance Rail contracting Downer to design and build the 
AMC. In turn, Downer subcontracted this work to John 
Holland Pty Ltd. The design and construction of the areas 
in which subsidence has been observed formed part of 
the subcontractor’s design and construct obligations. 
On 20 March 2018, Downer received the decision of 
the NSW Supreme Court in respect of the AMC claim. 
Downer’s claim was not successful. Downer has recognised 
$25 million in relation to rectification, legal and other 
costs which were expected to be recovered as part of the 
proceedings, which are disclosed as Individually Significant 
Items (refer to Note B2(b)). Downer has filed a Notice of 
Appeal in relation to aspects of the decision.

vii) On 16 September 2015, the Group announced that it had 
terminated a contract with Tecnicas Reunidas S.A. (“TR”) 
following TR’s failure to remedy a substantial breach of the 
contract and that the Group was pursuing a claim against 
TR in the order of $65 million. Downer has since demobilised 
from the site and has commenced a claim that will be 
determined via an arbitration process, with a hearing date 
currently scheduled to commence in February 2019. TR has 
initiated a counter-claim, which is being defended by Downer. 
The Directors are of the opinion that disclosure of any further 
information relating to this matter would be prejudicial to the 
interests of the Group.

viii) In September 2017 Spotless commenced a Facilities 

Management Subcontract (‘Subcontract’) at the new Royal 
Adelaide Hospital (‘nRAH’). Spotless’ Subcontract is with 
Celsus, which has a head contract with the South Australian 
Government under a Public Private Partnership model. 

Spotless has previously announced that the Subcontract is a 
cash negative underperforming contract and that Spotless is 
working to resolve various commercial and operational issues 
which include significant preliminary claims and counter 
claims (including the application of some abatements, which 
are disputed by Spotless). Discussions between Spotless, 
Celsus and the South Australian Government are ongoing 
and most recently, a formal process has commenced (as set 
out in a Process Suspension Deed dated 20 June 2018) to 
enable the parties to address the various commercial and 
operational issues affecting the delivery of services at the 
nRAH (‘Standstill Discussions’). 

In the event that Spotless is not successful in either 
reaching agreement as part of the Standstill Discussions or 
via arbitration proceedings then Spotless is likely to incur 
operating losses up until September 2022 being the five 
year anniversary of the Subcontract term, at which point 
Spotless has the ability to trigger a re-pricing process. In this 
scenario, the estimated present value of the losses would 
be $93.8 million (after tax) as at 30 June 2018, excluding 
abatements that are disputed by Spotless which the 
Company does not consider to be probable. 

ix)  On 25 May 2017, Alison Court, as applicant, filed a 

representative proceeding in the Federal Court of Australia 
on behalf of shareholders who acquired Spotless shares from 
25 August 2015 to 1 December 2015. The applicant under 
this proceeding alleges that Spotless engaged in misleading 
or deceptive conduct and/or breached its continuous 
disclosure obligations in relation to Spotless financial results 
for the financial year ended 30 June 2015 and in its conduct 
following the release of those financial results until Spotless 
issued its trading update of 2 December 2015. The applicant 
seeks damages, declarations, interest and costs. Spotless 
is vigorously defending the proceeding. No provision 
has been recognised at 30 June 2018 in respect of the 
representative proceedings. 

Annual Report 2018  87

 
 
Employee benefits expense:
 – Defined contribution plans
 – Shared-based employee 

benefits expense
 – Employee benefits

Total

2018 
$’m

2017 
$’m

219.2 

170.5

2.8 
3,812.2 
4,034.2 

5.6
2,611.2 
2,787.3

D2. Key management personnel compensation

2018
$

2017
$

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits
Share-based payments

Total

14,236,432
310,779
2,841,759
17,388,970

13,742,489 
836,489 
2,929,596 
17,508,574

Recognition and measurement
Equity‑settled transactions 
Equity-settled share-based transactions are measured at 
fair value at the date of grant. The cost of these transactions 
is recognised in the profit or loss and credited to equity over 
the vesting period. At each balance sheet date, the Group 
revises its estimates of the number of rights that are expected 
to vest for service and non-market performance conditions. 
The expense recognised each year takes into account the 
most recent estimate. 

The fair value at grant date is independently determined using 
an option pricing model and takes into account any market 
related performance conditions. Non-market vesting conditions 
are not considered when determining value; however they are 
included in assumptions about the number of rights that are 
expected to vest. 

Cash‑settled transactions
The amount payable to employees in respect of cash-settled 
share-based payments is recognised as an expense, with a 
corresponding increase in liabilities, over the period during 
which the employees become unconditionally entitled to the 
payment. The liability is remeasured at each reporting date and 
at settlement date based on the fair value, with any changes in 
the liability being recognised in profit or loss.

D3. Employee discount share plan

No shares were issued under the Employee Discount Share Plan 
during the years ended 30 June 2018 and 30 June 2017.

D

Employee benefits

This section provides a breakdown of the various programs 
Downer uses to reward and recognise employees and key 
executives, including Key Management Personnel (KMP). 
Downer believes that these programs reinforce the value 
of ownership and incentives and drive performance both 
individually and collectively to deliver better returns 
to shareholders.

D1.  Employee benefits

D2.  Key management personnel compensation

D3.  Employee discount share plan

D1. Employee benefits

Employee benefits provision:
 – Current
 – Non-current

Total

2018 
$’m

336.7 
38.0 
374.7 

2017 
$’m

365.4
38.2
403.6

Recognition and measurement
The employee benefits liability represents accrued wages and 
salaries, leave entitlements and other incentives recognised in 
respect of employees’ services up to the end of the reporting 
period. These liabilities are measured at the amounts expected 
to be paid when they are settled and include related on-costs, 
such as workers compensation insurance, superannuation 
and payroll tax.

Key estimate and judgement: 
Annual leave and long service leave
Long-term employee benefits are measured at the present 
value of estimated future payments for the services 
provided by employees up to the end of the reporting 
period. This calculation requires judgement in determining 
the following key assumptions:
 – Future increase in wages and salary rates;
 – Future on-cost rates; and
 – Expected settlement dates based on staff 

turnover history.

The liability is discounted using the Australian corporate 
bond rates which most closely match the terms to maturity 
of the entitlement.

88  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018E

Capital structure and financing

This section provides information relating to the Group’s capital structure and its exposure to financial risks, how they affect 
the Group’s financial position and performance and how the risks are managed.

The capital structure of the Group consists of debt and equity. The Directors determine the appropriate capital structure 
of Downer, specifically how much is raised from shareholders (equity) and how much is borrowed from financial institutions 
(debt) in order to finance the current and future activities of the Group. The Directors review the Group’s capital structure 
and dividend policy regularly and do so in the context of the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, to invest in 
opportunities that grow the business and enhance shareholder value.

E1.  Borrowings

E2.  Financing facilities

E3.  Commitments

E1. Borrowings

Current
Secured:
 – Finance lease liabilities
 – Hire purchase liabilities

Unsecured:
 – Bank loans
 – Medium term notes
 – Deferred finance charges

Total current borrowings

Non-current
Secured:
 – Finance lease liabilities
 – Hire purchase liabilities

Unsecured:
 – Bank loans
 – USD private placement notes
 – AUD private placement notes
 – Medium term notes
 – Deferred finance charges

Total non-current borrowings

Total borrowings
Fair value of total borrowings(i)

(i) Excludes finance lease, hire purchase and supplier finance liabilities.

E4.  Issued capital

E5.  Reserves

E6.  Dividends

Note

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

E3(d)
E3(e)

E3(d)
E3(e)

5.1 
0.2 
5.3 

2.1 
150.0 
(3.7)
148.4 
153.7

11.2 
–
11.2 

817.7 
144.7 
30.0
372.2 
(8.3)
1,356.3 
1,367.5
1,521.2
1,561.8 

20.4
0.4
20.8

836.4
13.3
(7.3)
842.4
863.2

14.8
0.2
15.0

2.1
139.1
30.0
400.0
(4.4)
566.8
581.8
1,445.0
1,466.0 

Annual Report 2018  89

E1. Borrowings – continued

Recognition and measurement
Borrowings
Borrowings are initially recognised at fair value, net of transaction 
costs. They are subsequently measured at amortised cost using 
the effective interest rate method.

Fair value
The cash flows under the Group’s debt instruments are 
discounted using current market base interest rates and 
adjusted for current market credit default swap spreads 
for industrial companies with a BBB credit rating.

E2. Financing facilities

At reporting date, the Group had the following facilities that 
were unutilised:

Syndicated bank bridge loan facility
Syndicated bank loan facilities
Bilateral bank loan facilities
Total unutilised bank 
loan facilities

Syndicated and bilateral bank and 
bilateral insurance bonding facilities
Total unutilised 
bonding facilities

2018 
$’m

–
780.0 
145.0 

2017 
$’m

500.0
500.0
190.0

925.0 

1,190.0

574.3 

574.3 

738.3

738.3

Summary of borrowing arrangements 
Bank loan facilities
Bilateral bank loan facilities:
 –  A total of $245.0 million in bilateral bank loan facilities 

are committed and unsecured facilities with maturities in 
calendar years 2019, 2020 and 2021.

Syndicated bank bridge loan facility:
 –  The syndicated bank bridge loan facility limit of 

$500.0 million was terminated in February 2018 at the 
election of Downer.

Syndicated loan facilities:
During the financial year, Downer terminated a $200.0 million 
tranche of an existing $400.0 million syndicated bank loan 
facility and $400.0 million of new syndicated bank loan facilities 
were established in May 2018. The $600.0 million of syndicated 
bank loan facilities are unsecured, revolving committed facilities 
and comprise the following tranches:
 – $200 million maturing April 2021;
 – $200 million maturing May 2022; and
 – $200 million maturing May 2023.

Spotless’ bank loan facilities were refinanced in full in May 
2018. Given that Downer’s interest in Spotless remains below 
90%, the new facilities were established on a standalone basis. 
The syndicated loan facilities are on an unsecured, committed 
basis and comprise Australian Dollar and New Zealand Dollar 
tranches as follows:
 – $280 million revolving tranche maturing May 2021;
 – NZD75 million revolving tranche maturing May 2021;
 – NZD75 million term tranche maturing May 2021;
 – $280 million revolving tranche maturing May 2022; and
 – $200 million term tranche maturing May 2022.

USD private placement notes
USD unsecured private placement notes are on issue for a 
total amount of US$107.0 million. US$7.0 million notes mature in 
September 2019 and US$100.0 million in July 2025. The USD 
denominated principal and interest amounts have been fully 
hedged against the Australian dollar through cross-currency 
interest rate swaps.

AUD private placement notes
AUD unsecured private placement notes are on issue for a total 
amount of $30.0 million with a maturity date of July 2025. 

Medium Term Notes (MTNs)
The Group has the following unsecured MTNs on issue:
 – $150.0 million maturing November 2018;
 – $250.0 million maturing March 2022; and
 – JPY10.0 billion maturing May 2033.

The JPY denominated principal and interest amounts have been 
fully hedged against the Australian dollar through cross-currency 
interest rate swaps.

The above bank loan facilities and note issuances are supported 
by certain Group guarantees.

90  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018E2. Financing facilities – continued

Summary of borrowing arrangements – continued
Finance lease / Hire purchase facilities
The Group has certain secured facilities of these types which are 
for an aggregate amount of $16.5 million and which amortise over 
different periods of up to five years.

Covenants on financing facilities
Downer Group’s financing facilities contain undertakings 
to comply with financial covenants. These require that the 
Group operates within certain financial ratios and ensure 
that Group guarantors of these facilities collectively meet the 
minimum threshold amounts of Group EBIT and Group Total 
Tangible Assets.

The main financial covenants which the Group is subject to 
are Net Worth, Interest Service Coverage (rolling 12-month 
EBIT to Net Interest Expense) and Leverage (Net Debt to 
Total Capitalisation). 

Financial covenants testing is undertaken and reported to 
the Downer Board on a monthly basis. Reporting of financial 
covenants to financiers occurs semi-annually for the rolling 
12-month periods to 30 June and 31 December. The Downer 
Group was in compliance with all its financial covenants as 
at 30 June 2018.

Spotless’ financing facilities contain undertakings to comply with 
financial covenants. The main financial covenants that Spotless 
is subject to are Net Leverage (Net Debt to EBITDA) and Interest 
Service Coverage (rolling 12-month EBITDA to Net Total Cash 
Interest) as well as ensuring that the guarantors under various 
facilities collectively meet the minimum threshold amounts of 
Group EBITDA and Group Total Assets. 

Financial covenants are reviewed by the Spotless Board and 
reported to financiers on a semi-annual basis. Spotless was in 
compliance with all its financial covenants as at 30 June 2018.

Bonding
The Group has $1,915.9 million of bank guarantee and 
insurance bond facilities to support its contracting activities. 
$1,032.5 million of these facilities are provided to the Group 
on a committed basis and $883.4 million on an uncommitted 
basis. Included in these facilities is a syndicated $210.0 million 
committed revolving bank guarantee facility for the specific 
purpose of a passenger rail manufacturing contract and of which 
$142.9 million is utilised and $67.1 million is unutilised.

The Group’s bonding facilities are provided by a number of banks 
and insurance companies on an unsecured and revolving basis. 
These facilities are supported by Group guarantees representing 
certain minimum threshold amounts of Group EBIT and Group 
Total Tangible Assets (for Downer) and Group EBITDA and 
Group Total Assets (for Spotless). $1,341.6 million (refer to Note 
C9) of these facilities were utilised as at 30 June 2018 with 
$574.3 million unutilised. These facilities have varying maturity 
dates between calendar years 2018 and 2020.

The underlying risk being assumed by the relevant financier 
under all bank guarantees and insurance bonds is corporate 
credit risk rather than project specific risk.

The Group has the flexibility in respect of certain committed 
facility amounts (shown as part of the unutilised bilateral bank 
loan facilities) which can at the election of the Group be utilised 
for bonding purposes.

Refinancing requirements
Where existing facilities approach maturity, the Group 
will negotiate with existing and, where required, with new 
financiers to extend the maturity date of or refinance these 
facilities. The Group’s financial metrics and credit rating as 
well as conditions in financial markets and other factors may 
influence the outcome of these negotiations.

Credit ratings
The Group has an Investment Grade credit rating of BBB 
(Outlook Stable) from Fitch Ratings. Where the credit rating is 
reduced or placed on negative watch, customers and suppliers 
may be less willing to contract with the Group. Furthermore, 
banks and other lending institutions may demand more stringent 
terms (including increased pricing, reduced tenors and lower 
facility limits) on debt and bonding facilities, to reflect the weaker 
credit risk profile.

Annual Report 2018  91

E3. Commitments

a) Capital expenditure commitments
Plant and equipment and other
Within one year
Between one and five years

b) Operating lease commitments
Non-cancellable operating leases relate to premises with lease terms of between 
one to 20 years.
Within one year
Between one and five years
Greater than five years

Non-cancellable operating leases relate to plant and equipment with lease terms of 
between one to ten years.
Within one year
Between one and five years
Greater than five years

c) Catering rights
Catering rights relates to exclusive secured catering rights arrangements with customers.
Within one year
Between one and five years
Greater than five years

d) Finance lease commitments
Finance leases relate to plant and equipment with lease terms of between one to five years.
Within one year
Between one and five years
Minimum finance lease payments
Future finance charges
Finance lease liabilities

Included in the financial statements as:
Current borrowings
Non-current borrowings

e) Hire purchase liabilities
Within one year
Between one and five years
Minimum hire purchase payments
Hire purchase liabilities

Included in the financial statements as:
Current borrowings
Non-current borrowings

f) Operating lease expenses
Operating lease expenses relating to land and buildings
Operating lease expenses relating to plant and equipment
Total operating lease expenses

92  Downer EDI Limited

Note

E1
E1

E1
E1

2018
$’m

60.3 
14.4 
74.7 

79.3 
225.4 
148.8 
453.5 

65.2 
84.8 
7.2 
157.2 

26.9 
81.8 
12.0 
120.7 

6.1 
11.6 
17.7 
(1.4)
16.3 

5.1 
11.2 
16.3 

0.2 
–
0.2 
0.2 

0.2 
–
0.2 

81.8 
121.1 
202.9 

2017
$’m

74.2
14.0
88.2

79.0
201.9
157.1
438.0

71.8
91.9
6.9
170.6

28.7
92.8
9.1
130.6

21.5
15.3
36.8
(1.6)
35.2

20.4
14.8
35.2

0.4
0.2
0.6
0.6

0.4
0.2
0.6

70.2
92.9
163.1

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018E3. Commitments – continued

Recognition and measurement
Leases
When the terms of a lease transfer substantially all the risks and 
rewards of ownership to the Group, the lease is classified as a 
finance lease. All other leases are classified as operating leases.

(i) Operating leases
Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense 
on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease, except 
where another systematic basis is more representative of 
the time pattern in which economic benefits from the leased 
assets are consumed.

E4. Issued capital

Ordinary shares
594,702,512 ordinary shares (2017: 594,702,512)
Unvested executive incentive shares
4,207,358 ordinary shares (2017: 4,257,373)
200,000,000 Redeemable Optionally Adjustable
Distributing Securities (ROADS) (2017: 200,000,000)

(ii) Finance leases
Assets held under finance leases are initially recognised at 
an amount equal to the lower of their fair value or the present 
value of the minimum lease payments. Subsequently the assets 
are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the 
estimated useful life or the lease term.

Finance lease payments are apportioned between the finance 
expense and the reduction of outstanding liability. The finance 
expense is allocated to each period during the lease term so as 
to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance 
of the liability.

2018 
$’m

2017 
$’m

2,263.1 

2,263.2

(19.8)

(20.0)

178.6 
2,421.9 

178.6
2,421.8

a) Fully paid ordinary share capital
Fully paid ordinary shares carry one vote per share and carry the right to dividends.

Fully paid ordinary share capital
Balance at the beginning of the financial year
Capital raising(i)
Capital raising costs net of tax
Balance at the end of the financial year

b) Unvested executive incentive shares
Balance at the beginning of the financial year
Vested executive incentive share transactions(ii)
Balance at the end of the financial year

2018

2017

m’s

$’m

m’s

$’m

594.7 
–
–
594.7 

4.3 
(0.1)
4.2 

2,263.2 
–
(0.1)
2,263.1 

(20.0)
0.2 
(19.8)

424.8
169.9
–
594.7

4.5
(0.2)
4.3

1,270.2
1,011.0
(18.0)
2,263.2

(21.0)
1.0
(20.0)

(i)  Relates to 169.9 million shares issued from capital raising as part of the Spotless takeover offer where two new shares for every five outstanding shares were issued at a 

discounted price of $5.95 per share.

(ii)  June 2018 figures referable to the second deferred component of the 2015 STI award and the first deferred component of the 2016 STI award totalling 50,015 vested shares 

for a value of $192,660.
June 2017 figures referable to the second deferred component of the 2014 STI award and the first deferred component of the 2015 STI award totalling 196,083 vested shares 
for a value of $955,174.

Unvested executive incentive shares are stock market purchases and are held by the Executive Employee Share Plan Trust. Dividends 
are retained in the trust to be used by the Company to acquire additional shares on the market for employee equity plans.

Annual Report 2018  93

 
E4. Issued capital – continued

2018

2017

m’s 

$’m 

m’s 

$’m 

c) Redeemable Optionally Adjustable Distributing Securities 
(ROADS)
Balance at the beginning and at the end of the financial year

200.0 

178.6 

200.0 

178.6

ROADS are perpetual, redeemable, exchangeable preference shares. In accordance with the terms of the ROADS preference shares, the 
dividend rate for the one year commencing 15 June 2018 is 6.15% per annum (2017: 6.05% per annum) which is equivalent to the one 
year swap rate on 15 June 2018 plus the Step-up margin of 4.05% per annum.

Share options and performance rights
During the financial year 1,078,912 performance rights (2017: 1,608,887) in relation to unissued shares were granted to senior 
executives of the Group under the LTI plan. Further details of the Key Management Personnel (KMP) LTI plan are contained in the 
Remuneration Report.

Recognition and measurement
Ordinary shares
Incremental costs directly attributed to the issue of ordinary shares are accounted for as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects.

Executive incentive shares
When executive incentive shares subsequently vest to employees under the Downer employee share plans, the carrying value of the 
vested shares is transferred from issued capital to the employee benefits reserve.

E5. Reserves

2018 
$’m

Balance at 1 July 2017
Foreign currency translation difference
Change in fair value of cash flow hedges (net of tax)
Change in fair value of available-for-sale assets
Available-for-sale reserve transferred to profit or loss
Total comprehensive income for the year
Vested executive incentive share transactions
Share-based employee benefits expense
Income tax relating to share-based transactions 
during the year
Balance at 30 June 2018

2017
Balance at 1 July 2016
Foreign currency translation difference
Change in fair value of cash flow hedges (net of tax)
Change in fair value of available-for-sale assets
Available-for-sale reserve transferred to profit or loss
Total comprehensive income for the year
Vested executive incentive share transactions
Share-based employee benefits expense
Income tax relating to share-based transactions 
during the year
Balance at 30 June 2017

94  Downer EDI Limited

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve

Employee 
benefits 
reserve

Available-
for-sale 
revaluation 
reserve

Hedge 
reserve

Total 
attributable 
to the 
members of 
the Parent

(6.2)
–
(6.8)
–
–
(6.8)
–
–

–
(13.0)

(2.6)
–
(3.6)
–
–
(3.6)
–
–

–
(6.2)

(18.0)
(8.8)
–
–
–
(8.8)
–
–

–
(26.8)

(18.4)
0.4
–
–
–
0.4
–
–

–
(18.0)

14.1 
–
–
–
–
–
(0.2)
2.8 

(1.2)
15.5 

12.2
–
–
–
–
–
(1.0)
5.6

(2.7)
14.1

(0.8)
–
–
(1.3)
(0.5)
(1.8)
–
–

–
(2.6)

–
–
–
18.3
(19.1)
(0.8)
–
–

–
(0.8)

(10.9)
(8.8)
(6.8)
(1.3)
(0.5)
(17.4)
(0.2)
2.8 

(1.2)
(26.9)

(8.8)
0.4
(3.6)
18.3
(19.1)
(4.0)
(1.0)
5.6

(2.7)
(10.9)

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018E5. Reserves – continued

Hedge reserve
The hedge reserve comprises the effective portion of the cumulative net change in the fair value cash flow hedging instruments 
relating to future transactions.

Foreign currency translation reserve
The foreign currency translation reserve comprises foreign exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements 
of operations where their functional currency is different to the presentation currency of the Group.

Employee benefit reserve
The employee benefit reserve is used to recognise the fair value of share-based payments issued to employees over the vesting period, 
and to recognise the value attributable to the share-based payments during the reporting period.

Available-for-sale revaluation reserve
The fair value reserve includes the cumulative net movement above cost of the fair value of available-for-sale investment until the 
asset is realised or impaired or control of an acquiree is obtained at which time the cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in the 
available-for-sale revaluation reserve is included in the profit or loss.

E6. Dividends

a) Ordinary shares

Dividend per share (in Australian cents)
Franking percentage
Cost (in $’m)
Dividend record date
Payment date

2018 
Final

2018 
Interim

2017 
Final

2017 
Interim

14.0
50%
83.3
30/8/18
27/9/18

13.0
50%
77.3
7/3/18
4/4/18

12.0
100%
71.4
12/9/17
10/10/17

12.0
100%
51.0
16/2/17
16/3/17

Recognition and measurement
Provision is made for the amount of any dividend declared, being appropriately authorised and no longer at the discretion of the entity, 
before or at the end of the financial year but not distributed at balance date.

The final 2018 dividend has not been declared at the reporting date and therefore is not reflected in the consolidated 
financial statements.

b) Redeemable Optionally Adjustable Distributing Securities (ROADS)
2018

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

Quarter 4

Dividend per ROADS (in Australian cents)
New Zealand imputation credit percentage
Cost (in A$’m)
Payment date

2017

Dividend per ROADS (in Australian cents)
New Zealand imputation credit percentage
Cost (in A$’m)
Payment date

1.00
100%
2.0
15/9/17

0.99
100%
2.0
15/12/17

1.02
100%
2.0
15/3/18

1.00
100%
2.0
15/6/18

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

Quarter 4

1.08
100%
2.1
15/9/16

1.09
100%
2.2
15/12/16

1.03
100%
2.1
15/3/17

1.08
100%
2.2
15/6/17

c) Franking credits
The franking account balance as at 30 June 2018 is nil (2017: nil).

Total

4.01
100%
8.0

Total

4.28
100%
8.6

Annual Report 2018  95

F

Group structure

This section explains significant aspects of Downer’s group structure, including joint arrangements where the Group has interest 
in its controlled entities and how changes have affected the Group structure. It also provides information on business acquisitions 
and disposals made during the financial year as well as information relating to Downer’s related parties, the extent of related party 
transactions and the impact they had on the Group’s financial performance and position.

F1.  Joint arrangements and associate entities

F4.  Controlled entities

F2.  Acquisition of businesses

F3.  Disposal of business

F5.  Related party information

F6.  Parent entity disclosures

F1. Joint arrangements and associate entities

a) Interest in joint ventures and associates

Interest in joint ventures at the beginning of the financial year
Share of net profit
Share of distributions
Acquisition of businesses
Foreign currency exchange differences

Interest in joint ventures at the end of the financial year

Interest in associates at the beginning of the financial year
Share of net profit
Share of distributions

Interest in associates at the end of the financial year

Interest in joint ventures and associates

Note

F2

2018
$’m

19.0 
15.9 
(13.5)
–
(0.2)
21.2 

69.0 
9.2 
(3.4)
74.8 

96.0 

2017
$’m

17.3
15.8
(15.9)
1.8
–
19.0

64.3
6.7
(2.0)
69.0

88.0

96  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018F1. Joint arrangements and associate entities – continued

a) Interest in joint ventures and associates – continued
The Group has interests in the following joint ventures and associates which are equity accounted:

Name of arrangement

Principal activity

Ownership interest

Country of 
operation

2018 
%

2017 
%

Asphalt plant
Construction of bitumen storage facility
Bitumen importer
Catering for functions at Eden Park

Joint ventures
Allied Asphalt Limited
Bitumen Importers Australia Joint Venture
Bitumen Importers Australia Pty Ltd
Eden Park Catering Limited(i)
EDI Rail-Bombardier Transportation Pty Ltd Sale and maintenance of railway rolling stock
Emulco Limited
Isaac Asphalt Limited
RTL Mining and Earthworks Pty Ltd
VEC Shaw Joint Venture
ZFS Functions (Pty) Ltd(i)

Emulsion plant
Manufacture and supply of asphalt
Contract mining; civil works and plant hire
Road construction
Catering for functions at Federation Square

New Zealand
Australia
Australia
New Zealand
Australia
New Zealand
New Zealand
Australia
Australia
Australia

Associates
MHPS Plant Services Pty Ltd

Keolis Downer Pty Ltd

Reliance Rail Pty Ltd

Refurbishment, construction and maintenance of 
boilers
Operation and maintenance of Gold Coast light rail, 
Melbourne tram network and bus operation
Rail manufacturing and maintenance

Australia

Australia

Australia

(i)  Spotless joint ventures acquired as part of the Spotless Group Holdings Limited acquisition. Refer to Note F2.

There are no material commitments held by joint ventures or associates.

50
50
50
50
50
50
50
44
50
50

27

49

–

50
50
50
50
50
50
50
44
50
50

27

49

49

All joint ventures and associates have a statutory reporting date of 30 June, with the exception of MHPS Plant Services Pty Ltd which 
has a statutory reporting date of 31 March.

Recognition and measurement
Equity accounting
(i) Investments in joint ventures
Investments in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method of accounting.

(ii) Investments in associates 
Investments in entities over which the Group has the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, are accounted for using 
the equity method of accounting. The investment in associates is carried at cost plus post-acquisition changes in the Group’s share of 
the associates’ net assets, less any impairment in value.

Proportionate consolidation
Joint operations
Joint operations give the Group the right to the underlying assets and obligations for liabilities and are accounted for by recognising 
the share of those assets and liabilities.

Annual Report 2018  97

F1. Joint arrangements and associate entities – continued

b) Interest in joint operations
The Group has interests in the following joint operations which are proportionately consolidated:

Name of joint operation

Principal activity

Ownership interest

Country of 
operation

2018
%

2017
%

Ausenco Downer Joint Venture
BPL Downer Joint Venture
CDJV Construction Pty Ltd(v)

China Hawkins Construction JV
City Rail JV
Clough Downer Joint Venture(v)
CMC and Downer Joint Venture(v)
Concrete Paving Recycling Pty Ltd
Dampier Highway Joint Venture
DM Roads Services Pty Ltd

Downer-Carey Mining JV

Downer Clough Joint Venture(iv)
Downer Daracon Joint Venture
Downer EDI Works Pty Ltd & Leighton 
Contractors Pty Ltd
Downer Electrical GHD JV(i)
Downer FKG JV
Downer HEB Joint Venture

DownerMouchel(ii)
Downer Seymour Whyte JV
Downer York Joint Venture
Hatch Downer JV
HCMT Supplier JV
John Holland EDI Joint Venture
John Holland Pty Ltd & Downer Utilities 
Australia Pty Ltd Partnership
Karlayura ReGen Joint Venture
Landloch Project JV

Enabling works for Carrapateena Project
Building construction
Employment of labour force deployed in 
Clough Downer
Building construction
Enabling works for Auckland City Rail Link
Gas compression facilities and pipelines
Road construction
Road maintenance
Highway construction and design
Employment of labour force deployed in DM 
in New South Wales
Management of run of mine and ore 
rehandling services
Ammonium nitrate production
Construction
Design and construction of rail works

Australia
Singapore
Australia

New Zealand
New Zealand
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia

Australia

Australia
Australia
Australia

Australia
Australia
New Zealand

Traffic control infrastructure
Major civil and roadworks
Design and build of the New Zealand National 
War Memorial Park
Australia
Road maintenance
Australia
Construct of an urban operations training facility
Tramline extension
Australia
Design and construction of solvent extraction plant Australia
Australia
Rail build supplier
Australia
Research reactor
Australia
Operation of water recycling plant at Mackay

Road construction
Rehabilitation works, earthworks and plant 
monitoring and maintenance
Design and construction of pipes and structures
Road construction
Road construction

LD&C Joint Venture(iv)
Leighton Works Joint Venture
Macdow Downer Joint Venture 
(Russley Road)
Macdow Downer Joint Venture (Connectus) Rail construction
Macdow Downer Joint Venture (CSM2)

Road construction

Australia
Australia

Australia
New Zealand
New Zealand

New Zealand
New Zealand

50
50
50

50
50
50
–
49
50
50

46

–
50
50

90
50
50

60
50
50
50
50
40
50

50
(iii)

–
50
50

50
50

–
50
50

50
50
50
50
49
50
50

46

50
50
50

90
–
50

60
–
50
50
50
40
50

50
(iii)

37.5
50
50

50
50

98  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018F1. Joint arrangements and associate entities – continued

b) Interest in joint operations – continued

Name of joint operation

Principal activity

Organic Water Joint Venture

Synergy Joint Venture(iv)
Thiess Downer EDI Works JV(iv)
Thiess VEC Joint Venture
Utilita Water JV
Waanyi Downer JV Pty Ltd
Waanyi ReGen JV
WDJV Unit Trust
Wiri Train Depot Joint Venture

Design, construction and operation of 
water recycling plant
Road and pavement construction
Construction of coast to coast railway
Highway construction
Plant maintenance
Contract mining services
Rehab contract services
Contract mining services
Construction of the Wiri train depot

Ownership interest

Country of 
operation

2018
%

2017
%

Australia

Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
New Zealand

50

–
–
50
50
50
50
50
50

50

33
25
50
50
–
50
–
50

(i)  Contractual arrangement prevents control despite ownership of more than 50% of these joint ventures.
(ii)  The joint arrangement specifies 50% interest, except where an Integrated Service Arrangement (ISA) obligation is in place, whereby Downer EDI Limited has a 60% interest.
(iii)  Joint control is effected through unanimous vote by joint venture partners to direct the joint arrangement’s relevant activities; however, the Group’s interest may vary based 

on discrete phases of works performed.

(iv)  Downer’s interest in the joint operation was disposed of/ceased during the financial year ended 30 June 2018.
(v)  Entity commenced voluntary de-registration/wind up as at 30 June 2018.

F2. Acquisition of businesses

2018
Cash outflow on acquisitions
The total net cash outflow as a result of the acquisitions made during the financial year ended 30 June 2018 is as follows:

Further NCI acquired(ii)
Consideration payable during the year
Gross purchase consideration
Deferred consideration paid during the year
Less: Net cash acquired
Less: Contingent consideration

Total cash consideration

Note

C5

Spotless 
$’m

Other(i) 
$’m

 281.0 
 110.8 
–
–
–
–

 391.8 

–
–
 119.3 
 1.3
(1.3)
(35.2)

 84.1 

Total 
$’m

 281.0 
 110.8 
 119.3 
 1.3 
(1.3)
(35.2)
 475.9 

(i)  Other includes the acquisition of UrbanGrid, Envista, Integrated Services, Cabrini, ITS Pipetech, Hawkins and AGIS.
(ii)  Represents the cash consideration paid during the year for 22.15% additional interest obtained in Spotless and $0.4 million of additional NCI obtained and paid during 

the year.

Spotless
On 27 June 2017, the Group obtained a controlling interest in Spotless Group Holdings Limited (Spotless). During the 2018 financial 
year, the Group commissioned an independent valuation of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Spotless 
acquisition. The valuation determined the net identifiable assets / (liabilities) as being $269.2 million higher than previously reported. 
As a consequence, the goodwill acquired as part of the Spotless acquisition has decreased by this amount resulting in the previously 
reported Spotless goodwill of $1,651.3 million reducing to $1,382.1 million. The comparative information shown in the financial statements 
has been restated to include the adjusted fair values. There has been no impact to the comparative profit or loss as a result of 
these restatements.

Annual Report 2018  99

F2. Acquisition of businesses – continued

Details of the identified adjustments are as follows:

Cash and other cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Other current assets
Equity accounted investments
Property, plant and equipment
Intangibles
Non-current trade and other receivables
Net deferred tax asset / (liability)
Other non-current assets
Trade and other payables
Provisions
Borrowings
Financial liabilities
Current tax payable
Non-current trade and other payables
Net identifiable (liabilities) / assets acquired

Provisional 
amount 
disclosed at 
30 Jun 2017 
$’m

Acquisition 
adjustments 
$’m

Restated(i) 
balance at 
30 Jun 2017 
$’m

66.0
412.7
32.0
11.3
1.8
281.2
65.9
73.4
59.4
25.8
(381.6)
(162.7)
(848.3)
(2.3)
(7.2)
(11.5)
(384.1)

–
(3.7)
–
–
–
(14.8)
422.8
(41.0)
(90.5)
–
–
(3.5)
–
–
–
(0.1)
269.2

66.0
409.0
32.0
11.3
1.8
266.4
488.7
32.4
(31.1)
25.8
(381.6)
(166.2)
(848.3)
(2.3)
(7.2)
(11.6)
(114.9)

(i)  June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances. 

Spotless non‑controlling interest (NCI)
During the year, the Group acquired an additional 22.15% interest in Spotless for $281.0 million. The consideration paid was equal to the 
carrying amount of the NCI and as a consequence, there was no change in the equity attributable to the owners of the Company from 
the acquisition of the NCI.

The following table summarises the NCI in relation to the Spotless acquisition:

Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Net assets
NCI percentage
Net assets attributable to NCI

2018 
$’m

Restated(i) 
2017 
$’m

 529.1 
 2,272.8 
(521.1)
(1,009.9)
 1,270.9 
12.198%
155.0

518.3
2,292.9
(1,348.2)
(195.8)
1,267.2
34.343%
435.2

(i)  30 June 2017 balances were restated to reflect the impact of acquisition accounting adjustments made during the period on opening balances.

Other acquisitions
The goodwill arising from other individually immaterial acquisitions made during the financial year ended 30 June 2018 is as follows:

Cash
Deferred consideration and contingent consideration

Less: Net identifiable assets acquired
Goodwill arising from acquisitions

100  Downer EDI Limited

Note

C7

Total 
$’m

 84.1
 35.2
 119.3
14.3
 105.0

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018F2. Acquisition of businesses – continued

UrbanGrid
On 1 July 2017, Downer acquired the net assets of UrbanGrid 
Australia (UrbanGrid). UrbanGrid provides a wide range of 
specialist services to develop, operate and maintain Western 
Australia’s essential water, energy and communications networks 
as well as civil projects.

The Group has concluded the acquisition accounting process  
for this acquisition. 

Cabrini
On 1 July 2017, Spotless Facility Services Pty Ltd acquired the 
customer contracts and associated assets and liabilities of 
Cabrini Linen Service (referred to as “Cabrini”) from Cabrini 
Health Limited. The primary purpose of this acquisition is to 
strengthen Spotless’ linen capabilities, enhance customer 
service offerings and maintain Spotless’ market-leading position 
in the Victorian health sector.

The Group has concluded the acquisition accounting process  
for this acquisition. 

Envista
On 2 March 2018, the Group acquired 100% of Envista Pty 
Ltd and Smarter Contracting Pty Ltd (“Envista”). Envista 
provides strategy, architecture and delivery services in 
complex and sensitive environments. The acquisition enhances 
Downer’s services to customers in the Defence and National 
Security sectors.

The acquisition accounting for Envista will remain provisionally 
accounted for as at 30 June 2018.

Integrated Services
On 31 January 2018, the Group acquired the net assets of 
Integrated Services. The business provides traffic infrastructure 
electrics related works and complements the existing Transport 
business capabilities. 

The acquisition accounting for Integrated Services will remain 
provisionally accounted for as at 30 June 2018.

2017
Hawkins
On 31 March 2017, the Group acquired the business of Hawkins. 
The principal activities of Hawkins include construction, 
infrastructure development and project management throughout 
New Zealand. The Hawkins acquisition will complement 
existing engineering, construction and maintenance capabilities 
in New Zealand.

The Group has concluded the acquisition accounting process  
for this acquisition. 

ITS PipeTech
On 31 March 2017, the Group acquired 100% of ITS PipeTech Pty 
Ltd (ITS). The principal activities of ITS include pipe bursting, 
civil maintenance and robotics. ITS complements, grows and 
broadens existing pipeline capabilities in the Utilities business.

The Group has concluded the acquisition accounting process  
for this acquisition. 

RPQ Group
On 30 September 2016, the Group acquired 100% of RPQ Group 
(RPQ). The principal activities of RPQ include the supply of asphalt, 
bitumen spray sealing, road milling and profiling, road maintenance, 
foam bitumen stabilisation, mobile asphalt production, mobile 
crushing and equipment hire. 

The Group has concluded the acquisition accounting process  
for this acquisition. 

AGIS
On 1 July 2016, the Group acquired 100% of AGIS Group Pty Limited 
(AGIS). AGIS provides project management, systems engineering 
and integration, and capability development advice to a range 
of government agencies including the Department of Defence, 
Australian Defence Forces and the Department of Foreign Affairs 
and Trade. The AGIS acquisition expands the Group’s footprint in the 
Defence sector.

The Group has concluded the acquisition accounting process  
for this acquisition. 

Annual Report 2018  101

F2. Acquisition of businesses – continued

The valuation techniques used for measuring the fair value of material assets acquired were as follows:

Asset acquired

Valuation technique

Trade and other receivables

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets
Trade and other payables
Borrowings
Provisions

Cost technique – considers the expected economic benefits receivable when due.
Market comparison technique and cost technique – the valuation model considers quoted market 
prices for similar items when available and depreciated replacement cost when appropriate.
Multi-period excess earnings method – considers the present value of net cash flows expected to 
be generated by the customer contracts and relationships, intellectual property and brand names, 
excluding any cash flows related to contributory assets. For the valuation of certain brand names, 
discounted cash flow under the relief from royalty valuation methodology has been utilised.
Cost technique – considers the expected economic outflow of resources when due.
Cost technique – considers the expected economic outflow of resources when due.
Cost technique – considers the probable economic outflow of resources when the obligation arises.

Goodwill from acquisitions
The goodwill resulting from the above acquisitions represents 
the future market development, expected revenue growth 
opportunities, technical talent and expertise, and the benefits 
of expected synergies. These benefits are not recognised 
separately from goodwill because they do not meet the 
recognition criteria for identifiable intangible assets. None of 
the goodwill arising from these acquisitions is expected to be 
deductible for tax purposes.

Recognition and measurement
Business combinations
The Group accounts for business combinations using the 
acquisition method when control is transferred to the Group. 
The consideration transferred in the acquisition is measured at 
fair value. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred in 
profit or loss.

(i) Acquisition achieved in stages
Where a business combination is achieved in stages, the Group’s 
previously held equity interest in the acquiree is remeasured 
to fair value at the acquisition date (i.e. the date when the 
Group attains control) and the resulting gain or loss, if any, is 
recognised in profit or loss. Amounts arising from interests in the 
acquiree prior to the acquisition date that have previously been 
recognised in other comprehensive income are reclassified to 
profit or loss where such treatment would be appropriate if that 
interest were disposed of or control of the acquiree obtained.

(ii) Contingent consideration
The subsequent accounting for changes in the fair value of 
contingent consideration that do not qualify as measurement 
period adjustments depends on how the contingent 
consideration is classified.

Contingent consideration that is classified as equity is not 
remeasured at subsequent reporting dates and its subsequent 
settlement is accounted for within equity.

Contingent consideration that is classified as an asset or 
liability is remeasured at subsequent reporting dates with the 
corresponding gain or loss being recognised in profit or loss.

(iii) Non‑controlling interest
The Group can elect, on an acquisition by acquisition basis, to 
recognise non-controlling interests in an acquired entity either 
at fair value or at the non-controlling interest’s share of the 
acquired entity’s net identifiable assets / (liabilities).

Key estimate and judgement: 
Accounting for acquisition of businesses
Accounting for acquisition of businesses requires 
judgement and estimates in determining the fair value of 
acquired assets and liabilities. The relevant accounting 
standard allows the fair value of assets acquired to be 
refined in a window of a year after the acquisition date 
and judgement is required to ensure that the adjustments 
made reflect new information obtained about facts and 
circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date. 
The adjustments made to the fair value of assets are 
retrospective in nature and have an impact on goodwill 
recognised on acquisition.

102  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018F3. Disposal of business

2018
On 21 November 2017, Downer entered an agreement to  
sell its Freight Rail business to Progress Rail for $109 million 
($122.7 million after adjusting for working capital movements), 
with a completion date of 2 January 2018. The following disposal 
entries were recorded in the financial year:

Note

C7
C6

C8

Proceeds on disposal
Less: working capital adjustments
Disposal costs incurred
Proceeds net of disposal costs

Trade and other receivables
Amounts due from customers 
under contracts
Inventory 
Other assets
Intangibles (goodwill)
Property, plant and equipment
Assets disposed

Trade and other payables
Amounts due to customers 
under contracts
Employee benefits provisions
Provisions

Liabilities disposed

Net assets disposed

Loss on disposal pre-tax
Income tax benefit

Total loss on disposal after tax

B2(b)

B2(b)

2018 
$’m

129.6
(6.9)
(4.3)
118.4

30.0

33.5
49.4
0.1
14.2
60.0
187.2

(3.7)

(1.9)
(8.6)
(4.4)

(18.6)

168.6

(50.2)
9.6

(40.6)

2017
The Group did not dispose of any business during the period 
ended 30 June 2017.

Annual Report 2018  103

F4. Controlled entities

The controlled entities of the Group listed below were wholly owned during the current and prior year, unless otherwise stated:

Australia
AGIS Group Pty Ltd
ASPIC Infrastructure Pty Ltd
Dean Adams Consulting Pty Ltd
Downer Australia Pty Ltd 
Downer EDI Associated Investments Pty Ltd
Downer EDI Engineering Company Pty Limited
Downer EDI Engineering CWH Pty Limited
Downer EDI Engineering Electrical Pty Ltd
Downer EDI Engineering Group Pty Limited
Downer EDI Engineering Holdings Pty Ltd
Downer EDI Engineering Power Pty Ltd
Downer EDI Engineering Pty Limited
Downer EDI Engineering Transmission Pty Ltd(iv)
Downer EDI Limited Tax Deferred Employee Share Plan
Downer EDI Mining Pty Ltd
Downer EDI Mining-Blasting Services Pty Ltd
Downer EDI Mining-Minerals Exploration Pty Ltd
Downer EDI Rail Pty Ltd 
Downer EDI Services Pty Ltd
Downer EDI Works Pty Ltd 
Downer Energy Systems Pty Limited
Downer Group Finance Pty Limited 
Downer Holdings Pty Limited
Downer Investment Holdings Pty Ltd
Downer Mining Regional NSW Pty Ltd
Downer PipeTech Pty Limited
Downer PPP Investments Pty Ltd
Downer Utilities Australia Pty Ltd
Downer Utilities Holdings Australia Pty Ltd
Downer Utilities Networks Pty Ltd
Downer Utilities New Zealand Pty Ltd
Downer Utilities Projects Pty Ltd
Downer Utilities SDR Australia Pty Ltd
Downer Utilities SDR Pty Ltd 
Downer Victoria PPP Maintenance Pty Ltd
EDI Rail PPP Maintenance Pty Ltd
EDICO Pty Ltd 
Emoleum Partnership
Emoleum Road Services Pty Ltd 
Emoleum Roads Group Pty Ltd
Emoleum Services Pty Limited 
Envista Pty Limited(iii)
Evans Deakin Industries Pty Ltd 
Faxgroove Pty. Limited(iv)
LNK Group Pty Ltd
Locomotive Demand Power Pty Ltd(viii)
Lowan (Management) Pty. Ltd.
Maclab Services Pty Ltd
Mineral Technologies (Holdings) Pty Ltd
Mineral Technologies Pty Ltd
New South Wales Spray Seal Pty Ltd
Otraco International Pty Ltd
Otracom Pty Ltd
Primary Producers Improvers Pty Ltd
104  Downer EDI Limited

QCC Resources Pty Ltd
Rail Services Victoria Pty Ltd
REJV Services Pty Ltd
Reussi Pty Ltd(iv)
Roche Bros. Superannuation Pty. Ltd.
Roche Services Pty Ltd
RPC Roads Pty Ltd
RPQ Asphalt Pty Ltd
RPQ North Coast Pty Ltd
RPQ Pty Ltd
RPQ Services Pty Ltd
RPQ Spray Seal Pty Ltd
SACH Infrastructure Pty Ltd
Smarter Contracting Pty Ltd(iii)
Snowden Holdings Pty Ltd
Snowden Mining Industry Consultants Pty Ltd
Snowden Technologies Pty Ltd 
Southern Asphalters Pty Ltd
Trico Asphlat Pty Ltd
VEC Civil Engineering Pty Ltd
VEC Plant and Equipment Pty Ltd

New Zealand and Pacific 
A F Downer memorial Scholarship Trust
DGL Investments Limited
Downer Construction (Fiji) Limited 
Downer Construction (New Zealand) Limited
Downer Construction PNG Limited(iv)
Downer EDI Engineering PNG Limited
Downer EDI Engineering Power Limited
Downer EDI Mining NZ Limited(iv)
Downer EDI Works Vanuatu Limited
Downer New Zealand Limited
Downer New Zealand Projects 1 Ltd
Downer New Zealand Projects 2 Ltd
Downer New Zealand Projects 3 Ltd
Downer Utilities Alliance New Zealand Limited
Downer Utilities New Zealand Limited
Downer Utilities PNG Limited
Green Vision Recycling Limited
Hawkins 2017 Limited
Hawkins Project 1 Limited
ITS Pipetech (Fiji) Limited
Richter Drilling (PNG) Limited
Techtel Training & Development Limited
Underground Locators Limited
Waste Solutions Limited 
Works Finance (NZ) Limited 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018F4. Controlled entities – continued

Africa
Downer EDI Mining – Ghana Ltd
Downer Mining South Africa Proprietary Limited(iii)
MD Mineral Technologies SA (Pty) Ltd.
MD Mining and Mineral Services (Pty) Ltd(i)
Otraco Botswana (Proprietary) Limited
Otraco Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd
Otraco Tyre Management Namibia (Proprietary) Limited
Snowden Mining Industry Consultants (Proprietary) Ltd
Snowden Training (Pty) Ltd(iv)

Asia
Chan Lian Construction Pte Ltd(iv)
Chang Chun Ao Da Technical Consulting Co Ltd(ii)
ChangChun Ao Hua Technical Consulting Co Ltd
Downer EDI Engineering (S) Pte Ltd 
Downer EDI Engineering Holdings (Thailand) Limited 
Downer EDI Engineering Thailand Ltd 
Downer EDI Group Insurance Pte Ltd 
Downer EDI Rail (Hong Kong) Limited
Downer EDI Works (Hong Kong) Limited
Downer Pte Ltd
Downer Singapore Pte Ltd
Duffill Watts Pte Ltd(iv)
MD Mineral Technologies Private Limited
PT Duffill Watts Indonesia
PT Otraco Indonesia 

Americas
DBS Chile SpA 
Mineral Technologies Comercio de Equipamentos para 
Processamento de Minerais LTD
Mineral Technologies, Inc.
Otraco Brasil Gerenciamento de Pneus Ltda 
Otraco Chile SA 
Snowden Consultoria do Brasil Limitada
Snowden Mining Industry Consultants Inc.(ii)

United Kingdom
Sillars (B. & C.E.) Limited
Sillars (TMWD) Limited
Sillars Holdings Limited
Sillars Road Construction Limited
Snowden Mining Industry Consultants Limited(iv)
Works Infrastructure (Holdings) Limited 
Works Infrastructure Limited 

Spotless(vi)
AE Smith & Son (NQ) Pty Ltd
AE Smith & Son (SEQ) Pty Ltd
AE Smith & Son Proprietary Ltd
AE Smith Building Technologies Pty Ltd
AE Smith Service (SEQ) Pty Ltd
AE Smith Service Holdings Pty Ltd
AE Smith Service Pty Ltd
Aladdin Group Services Pty Limited(vii)
Aladdin Holdings Pty Limited(vii) 
Aladdin Laundry Pty Limited(vii) 
Aladdin Linen Supply Pty Limited(vii) 
Asset Services (Aust) Pty Ltd(vii) 
Berkeley Challenge (Management) Pty Limited(vii)
Berkeley Challenge Pty Limited(vii) 
Berkeley Railcar Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Berkeleys Franchise Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Bonnyrigg Management Pty Ltd(vii)
Cleandomain Proprietary Limited(vii) 
Cleanevent Australia Pty Ltd(vii) 
Cleanevent Holdings Pty Ltd(vii) 
Cleanevent International Pty Ltd(vii) 
Cleanevent Middle East FZ LLC(ii)
Cleanevent Technology Pty Ltd(vii) 
Emerald ESP Pty Ltd
Ensign Services (Aust) Pty Ltd(vii) 
Errolon Pty Ltd(vii) 
Fieldforce Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Infrastructure Constructions Pty Ltd(vii) 
International Linen Service Pty Ltd(vii) 
Monteon Pty Ltd(vii) 
National Community Enterprises(ii)
Nationwide Venue Management Pty Ltd(vii) 
NG-Serv Pty Ltd(vii)
Nuvogroup (Australia) Pty Ltd(vii)
Pacific Industrial Services BidCo Pty Limited(vii) 
Pacific Industrial Services FinCo Pty Limited(vii) 
Riley Shelley Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Skilltech Consulting Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Skilltech Metering Solutions Pty Ltd(vii) 
Sports Venue Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Spotless Defence Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Spotless Facility Services (NZ) Limited
Spotless Facility Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Spotless Financing Pty Limited(vii) 

Annual Report 2018  105

c) Controlling entity
The parent entity of the Group is Downer EDI Limited.

F6. Parent entity disclosures

a) Financial position

Company

2018 
$’m

2017 
$’m

970.4 
1,500.3 
2,470.7 

39.4 
15.3 
54.7 
2,416.0 

1,108.8
1,305.2
2,414.0

29.9
6.4
36.3
2,377.7

2,243.3 
157.2 

2,243.2
120.4

15.5 
2,416.0 

14.1
2,377.7

185.5 
185.5 

117.6
117.6

Assets
Current assets
Non-current assets

Total assets

Liabilities
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

Total liabilities
Net assets

Equity
Issued capital
Retained earnings

Reserves
Employee benefits reserve

Total equity

b) Financial performance
Profit for the year

Total comprehensive income

c) Guarantees entered into by the parent entity in 
relation to debts of its subsidiaries
The parent entity has, in the normal course of business, entered 
into guarantees in relation to the debts of its subsidiaries during 
the financial year.

d) Contingent liabilities of the parent entity
The parent entity has no contingent liabilities as at 30 June 2018 
(2017: nil) other than those disclosed in Note C9.

The parent entity does not have any commitments for acquisition 
of property, plant and equipment as at 30 June 2018 (2017: nil).

F4. Controlled entities – continued

Spotless(vi) (continued)
Spotless Group Limited(vii) 
Spotless Group Holdings Limited(vii) 
Spotless Holdings (NZ) Limited
Spotless Investment Holdings Pty Ltd(vii) 
Spotless Management Services Pty Ltd(vii)
Spotless Property Cleaning Services Pty Ltd(vii)
Spotless Securities Plan Pty Ltd(vii)
Spotless Services Australia Limited(vii) 
Spotless Services International Pty Ltd(vii) 
Spotless Services Limited(vii) 
Spotless Treasury Pty Ltd(vii)
SSL Asset Services (Management) Pty Ltd(vii) 
SSL Facilities Management Real Estate Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
SSL Security Services Pty Ltd(vii) 
Taylors Two Two Seven Pty Ltd(vii) 
Trenchless Group Pty Ltd(vii) 
UAM Pty Ltd(vii) 
Utility Services Group Holdings Pty Ltd(vii) 
Utility Services Group Limited(vii) 

(i)  70% ownership interest.
(ii)  Entity currently undergoing liquidation/dissolution.
(iii)  Entity acquired during the financial year ended 30 June 2018.
(iv)  Entity liquidated during the financial year ended 30 June 2018.
(v)  Entity incorporated during the financial year ended 30 June 2018.
(vi)  Entity acquired as part of the Spotless Group Holdings Limited acquisition. The 

ownership interest in Spotless described is 87.8% as at 30 June 2018.

(vii)  These Spotless controlled entities all form part of the tax-consolidated group of 

which Spotless Group Holdings Limited is the head entity.
(viii) Entity disposed during the financial year ended 30 June 2018.

F5. Related party information

a) Transactions with controlled entities
Aggregate amounts receivable from and payable to controlled 
entities are included within total assets and liabilities balances 
as disclosed in Note F6. Amounts contributed to the defined 
contribution plan are disclosed in Note D1.

Other transactions which occurred during the financial year 
between the parent entity and controlled entities, as well as 
between entities in the Group, were on normal arm’s length 
commercial terms.

b) Equity interests in related parties
Equity interests in subsidiaries
Details of the percentage of ordinary shares held in controlled 
entities are disclosed in Note F4.

Equity interests in joint arrangements and 
associate entities 
Details of interests in joint arrangements and associate entities 
are disclosed in Note F1. The business activities of a number of 
these entities are conducted under joint venture arrangements. 
Associated entities conduct business transactions with various 
controlled entities. Such transactions include purchases and 
sales, dividends and interest. All such transactions are conducted 
on the basis of normal arm’s length commercial terms.

106  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018G

Other

This section provides details on other required disclosures relating to the Group to comply with the accounting standards 
and other pronouncements including the Group’s capital and financial risk management disclosure. This disclosure provides 
information around the Group’s risk management policies and how Downer uses derivatives to hedge the underlying exposure to 
changes in interest rates and to foreign exchange rate fluctuations.

G1.  New accounting standards

G2.  Capital and financial risk management

G3.  Other financial assets and liabilities 

G1. New accounting standards

a) New and amended accounting standards adopted 
by the Group
In the current period, the Group has applied a number of new 
and revised accounting standards issued by the Australian 
Accounting Standards Board (AASB) that are mandatorily 
effective for an accounting period that begins on or after 
1 July 2017, as follows:

 – AASB 2016-1 Amendments to Australian Accounting 
Standards – Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for 
Unrealised Losses (AASB 112);

 – AASB 2016-2 Amendments to Australian Accounting 
Standards – Disclosure Initiative: Amendments 
to AASB 107; and

 – AASB 2017-2 Amendments to Australian Accounting 

Standards – Further Annual Improvements 2014-2016 Cycle.

Adoption of these standards has not resulted in any material 
changes to the Group’s financial statements.

b) New accounting standards and interpretations 
not yet adopted
The following standards, amendments to standards and 
interpretations are relevant to current operations. They are 
available for early adoption but have not been applied by the 
Group in this Financial Report.

AASB 9 – Financial Instruments
AASB 9 replaces AASB 139 Financial instruments: Recognition 
and Measurement and addresses the classification and 
measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities, including 
a new expected credit loss model for calculation of impairment 
on financial assets, and new general hedge accounting 
requirements. It also carries forward guidance on recognition 
and derecognition of financial instruments from AASB 139. 
The Group has adopted AASB 9 from 1 July 2018 and has 
elected not to restate comparative information for prior periods.

Classification and measurement – financial assets 
and liabilities
AASB 9 contains a new classification and measurement 
approach for financial assets that reflects the business model in 
which assets are managed and their cash flow characteristics.

AASB 9 contains three principal classification categories for 
financial assets: measured at amortised cost, fair value through 
other comprehensive income (FVOCI) and fair value through 
profit or loss (FVTPL). The standard eliminates the existing 
AASB 139 categories of held to maturity, loans and receivables 
and available for sale, while the existing requirements for the 
classification of financial liabilities in AASB 139 is retained. 
Based on its assessment, the Group does not believe that the 
new classification requirements will have a material impact.

The unquoted equity investment disclosed in Note G3 is 
classified as available-for-sale investments carried at fair value 
under AASB 139. Under AASB 9, the Group has designated this 
investment as measured at FVOCI. Consequently, all fair value 
gains and losses will be reported in the OCI and no impairment 
losses nor gains or losses (when the investment is derecognised) 
will be recognised in the statement of profit or loss. 

Impairment
AASB 9 replaces the ‘incurred loss” model in AASB 139 with a 
forward looking “expected credit loss” (ECL) model. This requires 
considerate judgement about how changes in economic factors 
affect ECL, which is determined on a probability-weighted basis. 
There is consideration around the probability of default upon 
initial recognition and subsequent assessment as to whether 
there has been a significant increase in credit risk at each 
reporting period. 

The new impairment model will apply to financial assets 
measured at amortised cost or FVOCI except for investment in 
equity instruments.

Annual Report 2018  107

AASB 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers
AASB 15 changes the manner in which revenue is recognised 
and provides for a significant increase in the disclosure 
requirements for the business.

The core principle is that an entity recognises revenue to depict 
the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in 
an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity 
expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. 
This means that revenue will be recognised when control of 
goods or services is transferred rather than on transfer of 
risks and rewards.

During the current period, the Group made significant progress 
toward completing the evaluation of potential changes from 
adopting the new standard on future financial reporting and 
disclosures. The Group has completed material contract reviews 
and detailed policy drafting. The evaluation has included 
consultation between Group and Divisional Finance Teams, 
Commercial and Group Legal functions. The implementation 
project is ongoing and therefore all amounts are current 
estimates which are subject to finalisation prior to final 
implementation. 

The Group has adopted AASB 15 from 1 July 2018 using the 
cumulative approach method on initial application. This means 
that the cumulative impact of adoption is recognised in the 
opening retained earnings at 1 July 2018 with no restatement 
of comparatives. 

G1. New accounting standards – continued

b) New accounting standards and interpretations not yet adopted – continued
AASB 9 – Financial Instruments – continued
Impairment – continued
Under AASB 9, loss allowances will be measured on either of the 
following bases:
 – 12-month ECLs: where there are ECLs that result from 
possible default events within 12 months from the 
reporting date; and

 – Lifetime ECLs: these are ECLs that result from all possible 

default events over the expected life of a financial instrument.

The Group expects to apply the simplified approach to recognise 
lifetime expected credit losses for trade receivables and finance 
lease receivables as permitted by AASB 9. 

In general, the Group anticipates that the application of the 
expected credit loss model of AASB 9 will result in the earlier 
recognition of credit losses for the respective items and will 
increase the amount of loss allowance recognised for these 
items. While the Group is finalising the impairment assessment 
utilising the simplified expected loss approach, it is anticipated 
that the impact on transition will not be material. 

Hedge accounting
AASB 9 will align the accounting for hedging instruments 
more closely with the Group’s risk management objectives 
and strategy and apply a more qualitative and forward-looking 
approach to assessing hedge effectiveness. AASB 9 also 
introduces new requirements on rebalancing hedge relationships 
and prohibiting voluntary discontinuation of hedge accounting. 
Under the new model, it is possible that more risk management 
strategies, particularly those involving hedging a risk component 
(other than foreign currency risk) of a non-financial item, will be 
likely to qualify for hedge accounting. 

An assessment of the Group’s current hedging relationships 
indicates that they will qualify as continuing hedging 
relationships upon application of AASB 9. Similar to the Group’s 
current hedge accounting policy, management do not intend 
to exclude the forward element of foreign currency forward 
contracts from designated hedging relationships. Moreover, the 
Group has already elected to adjust non-financial hedged items 
with gains/losses arising from effective cash flow hedges under 
AASB 139, which is mandatory under AASB 9.

Management do not anticipate that the application of AASB 9 
hedge accounting requirements will have a material impact on 
the Group’s consolidated financial statements. 

108  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018G1. New accounting standards – continued

b) New accounting standards and interpretations not yet adopted – continued
AASB 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers – continued
Rendering of Services
Services revenue is primarily generated from maintenance and other services supplied to infrastructure assets and facilities across different 
sectors as well as from contract mining services, mining assets maintenance services, tyre management, blasting, catering and laundry 
services. The service contracts that have been determined to have one performance obligation which are significantly integrated or highly 
inter-related and are fulfilled over time and therefore there is no change to the current revenue recognition methodology.

However, the new standard provides a higher threshold for recognition of variations, claims and incentives which only allows revenue 
from variations and claims to be recognised to the extent they are approved or enforceable under the contract. The amount of revenue 
is then recognised to the extent it is highly probable that a significant reversal of revenue will not happen.

Construction Revenue
The contractual terms and the way in which the Group operates its construction contracts is predominantly derived from projects 
containing one performance obligation. Contracted revenue will continue to be recognised over time based on stage of completion of 
contract. As with services revenue the new standard provides higher thresholds for variable consideration, as well as accounting for claims 
and variations as contract modifications requiring recognition only to the extent that they are approved or enforceable under the contract. 
The amount of revenue is then recognised to the extent that it is highly probable that a significant reversal of revenue will not happen.

The Group has identified the following differences between current accounting standards (AASB 118 Revenue and AASB 111 
Construction Contracts) and AASB 15: 

Current Accounting

Future Accounting

Contract claims and variations – now referred to as contract modifications
Estimates of revenue include:
 – claims from customers where negotiations 
have reached an advanced stage and 
it is probable that the customer will 
accept the claim and the amount can be 
measured reliably and 

 – variations when it is probable that the 

customer will approve the variation and the 
amount can be measured reliably.

Revenue in relation to variations, such as a change in the scope of the contract, will 
only be included in the transaction price, when it is approved by the parties to the 
contract, the variation is enforceable and the amount becomes highly probable. 
Variations will be recognised when client instruction has been received in line with 
customary business practice in the sector.
Revenue in relation to claims, where the Group has an enforceable right between 
the parties, is only included in the transaction price when the amount claimable 
becomes highly probable. This is a higher threshold than is required by current 
accounting standards.
In making this assessment, Downer considers a number of factors including nature 
of the claim, formal or informal acceptance by the customer of the validity of the 
claim, stage of negotiations, legal opinion on the enforceability of the claim under 
the contract, or the historical outcome of similar claims to determine whether the 
”highly probable” threshold has been met.
Impact on transition
As a result of the change to a higher threshold of approval of claims or variations 
and the highly probable threshold for the estimation of the amount to be 
recognised as revenue, it is estimated that revenue recognised prior to 30 June 
2018 will be deferred to later years resulting in a corresponding adjustment to 
opening retained earnings at 1 July 2018 of $198.9 million after tax.
The above adjustment includes claims and variations in relation to the Tan Burrup 
and nRAH contracts. Refer to Note C9 Contingent Liabilities for further details.

Contract costs (Tender costs)
Costs incurred during the tender/bid process are 
capitalised within amounts due from customers 
under contracts when it is probable that the 
contract will be awarded. If the contracts are not 
subsequently awarded the amounts capitalised are 
expensed to profit or loss.

Costs incurred during the tender/bid process will be expensed, unless they are 
incremental to obtaining the contract and the Group expects to recover those 
costs or where they are explicitly chargeable to the customer regardless of 
whether the contract is obtained.
Impact on transition
Tender costs on contracts of $23.9 million after tax currently capitalised will be 
required to be written off through opening retained earnings at 1 July 2018.

Annual Report 2018  109

G1. New accounting standards – continued

b) New accounting standards and interpretations not yet adopted – continued
AASB 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers – continued

Current Accounting

Future Accounting

Performance obligations and contract duration
Under AASB 111 Construction Contracts revenue is 
recognised over the stated term of the contract.

Measure of progress
Contract revenue and contract costs are 
recognised as revenue and expenses by reference 
to the stage of completion of the contract at the 
end of the reporting period.

Variable consideration
Estimates of revenue include incentive payments 
such as payments for meeting certain performance 
criteria when it is probable that the criteria will 
be met and can be measured reliably. Liquidated 
damages or abatements that are probable 
and can be measured reliably are included in 
contract costs.

Revenue is allocated to each performance obligation and recognised as the 
performance obligation is satisfied which may be at a point in time or over time. 
AASB 15 requires a more granular approach to identify the different revenue 
streams (i.e. performance obligations) in a contract by identifying the different 
activities that are being undertaken and then aggregating only those where the 
different activities are significantly integrated or highly interdependent. 
AASB 15 provides guidance in respect of the term over which revenue may be 
recognised and is limited to the period for which the parties have enforceable 
rights and obligations. When the customer can terminate for convenience without 
a substantive penalty, the contract term and related revenue is limited to the 
termination period.

Impact on transition
The contract review performed by the Group identified some contracts with 
additional performance obligations. This has resulted in an adjustment to opening 
retained earnings at 1 July 2018 of $26.8 million after tax.

The Group will measure revenue using the measure of progress that best reflects 
the Group’s performance in satisfying the performance obligation within the 
contracts over time. The different methods of measuring progress include an 
input method (e.g. costs incurred) or an output method (e.g. milestones reached). 
The same method of measuring progress will be consistently applied to similar 
performance obligations.

Impact on transition
In relation to particular Rail maintenance contracts, it was identified that the 
input method would better reflect the measure of progress rather than the billing 
method currently used. Based on this analysis the adjustment to opening retained 
earnings at 1 July 2018 is $2.5 million after tax.

Variable consideration that is contingent on the Group’s performance, including 
key performance payments, liquidated damages and abatements that offset 
revenue under the contract, are recognised such that only revenue that is 
highly probable, and that a reversal of that revenue will not occur, is recognised. 
This is a higher recognition threshold than the one required by the current 
accounting standards.
In addition, where the identified revenue stream is determined to be a series 
of distinct goods or services that are substantially the same and that have the 
same pattern of transfer to the customer (e.g. maintenance services); variable 
consideration is recognised in the period which the performance obligation 
subject to the variable consideration is completed, rather than being recognised 
according to the percentage of completion of the performance obligation.

Impact on transition
No significant adjustment to opening retained earnings is expected as a result 
of this change.

110  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018G1. New accounting standards – continued

b) New accounting standards and interpretations not yet adopted – continued
AASB 15 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers – continued

Current Accounting

Future Accounting

Loss-making contracts
For contracts under the percentage of completion 
method the expected loss on a contract is 
recognised immediately when it is probable 
that total contract costs will exceed total 
contract revenue.

These loss-making contracts will now be recognised under AASB 137 Provisions, 
Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets as onerous contracts.

In summary, based on the current assessment, an adjustment of $252.1 million after tax is expected to be recognised in opening 
retained earnings of the Group at 1 July 2018 on adoption of AASB 15.

AASB 16 – Leases
AASB 16 will replace the current leasing standard AASB 117, and 
contains significant changes to the accounting treatment of 
leases around how to recognise, measure and disclose leases. 
The new standard provides a single lessee accounting model, 
requiring lessees to recognise assets and liabilities for all leases, 
with the exception of short-term (less than 12 months) and 
low value leases. AASB 16 applies to annual reporting periods 
beginning on or after 1 July 2019.

The Group manages its owned and leased assets to ensure 
there is an appropriate level of equipment to meet its current 
obligations and to tender for new work. The decision as to 
whether to lease or purchase an asset is dependent on the 
finance available at the time and the residual risk of ownership 
following the anticipated completion of the project.

As at reporting date, the Group has non-cancellable 
operating lease commitments of $610.7 million (refer to Note 
E3 Commitments). 

To date, management has focused on the identification of 
the provisions of the standard which will most impact the 
Group and is in the process of determining whether any 
additional arrangements in excess of the current portfolio 
will be considered as a lease, together with a review of the 
lease contracts and financial reporting systems in place. As 
such, the Group has not yet quantified the effect of the new 
standard, however; the following impacts are expected on 
implementation date:

 – Total assets and total liabilities will increase, due to the 

recognition of a “Right of Use Asset” and a “Lease Liability” 
grossing up the assets and liabilities in the Consolidated 
Statement of Financial Position;

 – Interest expense will increase due to the effective interest 
rate implicit in the lease, where the interest expense 
component is higher on early years of the lease;
 – Depreciation charge will increase as the right of use 

asset is recognised;

 – Lease rental expenses will decrease due to the recognition of 

interest and depreciation noted above; and

 – Operating cash flows will be higher as repayment of the 
principal portion of all lease liabilities will be classified as 
financing activities.

AASB 16 needs to be implemented retrospectively, either with 
the restatement of comparatives or with the cumulative impact 
of application recognised as at 1 July 2019 under the modified 
retrospective approach. The Group is in the process of assessing 
the available options for transition.

Other
The following new or amended standards are not expected 
to have a significant impact on the Group’s consolidated 
financial statements:
 – AASB 17 Insurance Contracts;
 – AASB Interpretation 22 Foreign Currency Transactions and 

Advance Consideration;

 – AASB 1059 Service Concession Arrangements Grantor;
 – AASB 2014-10 Amendments to Australian Accounting 
Standards – Sale or Contribution of Assets between an 
Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture;

 – AASB 2016-5 Amendments to Australian Accounting 

Standards – Classification and Measurement of Share-based 
Payment Transactions;

 – AASB 2017-4 Amendments to Australian Accounting 
Standards, – Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments;

 – AASB 2017-7 Amendments to Australian Accounting 

Standards – Long term interest in Associates and JVs; and

 – AASB 2018-2 Amendments to Australian Accounting 

Standards – Plan Amendment, Curtailment or Settlement.

Annual Report 2018  111

G2. Capital and financial risk management

a) Capital risk management
The capital structure of the Group consists of debt and equity. The Group may vary its capital structure by adjusting the amount of 
dividends, returning capital to shareholders, issuing new shares or increasing or reducing debt.

The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard its ability to operate as a going concern so that it can meet all its 
financial obligations when they fall due, provide adequate returns to shareholders, maintain an appropriate capital structure to optimise 
its cost of capital, and maintain an Investment Grade credit rating to ensure ongoing access to funding.

b) Financial risk management objectives
The Group’s Treasury function manages the funding, liquidity and financial risks of the Group. These risks include foreign exchange, 
interest rate, commodity and financial counterparty credit risk.

The Group may enter into a variety of derivative financial instruments to manage its exposures including:
i)  Forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge the exchange rate risk arising from cross-border trade flows, foreign income and debt 

service obligations;

ii)  Cross-currency interest rate swaps to manage the interest rate and currency risk associated with foreign currency denominated 

borrowings; and

iii)  Interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risk.

The Group does not enter into or trade derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position, when there 
is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or realise the asset 
and settle the liability simultaneously. No material amounts with a right to offset were identified in the Consolidated Statement of 
Financial Position.

c) Foreign currency risk management
The Group undertakes certain transactions denominated in foreign currencies. As a result, exposures to exchange rate fluctuations 
arise. Exchange rate exposures are managed within approved policy parameters, utilising forward foreign exchange contracts and 
cross-currency swaps.

The carrying amounts of the Group’s material unhedged foreign currency denominated financial assets and financial liabilities at the 
reporting date are as follows:

US dollar (USD) 

(i)  The above table shows foreign currency financial assets and liabilities in Australian dollar equivalent.

Financial assets(i)

Financial liabilities(i)

2018 
$’m

1.4

2017 
$’m

1.9

2018 
$’m

6.3

2017 
$’m

11.8

112  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018G2. Capital and financial risk management – continued

c) Foreign currency risk management – continued
Foreign currency forward contracts
The following table summarises by currency, the Australian dollar value (unless otherwise stated) of forward exchange contracts 
outstanding as at the reporting date:

Weighted average 
exchange rate

Foreign currency

Contract value

Fair value

Outstanding contracts

2018

2017

2018
FC’m

2017
FC’m

2018
$’m

Buy USD / Sell AUD
Less than 3 months
3 to 6 months
Later than 6 months

Buy AUD / Sell USD
Less than 3 months
3 to 6 months
Later than 6 months

Buy EUR / Sell AUD
Less than 3 months
3 to 6 months
Later than 6 months

Buy AUD / Sell NZD
Less than 3 months
3 to 6 months
Later than 6 months

Buy CAD / Sell AUD
Less than 3 months

Sell CAD / Buy AUD
Less than 3 months

0.7540
–
0.7534

0.7165
0.7529
0.7492

0.7617
–
0.7613

0.7294
0.7351
0.7628

0.6366
–
0.6167

0.6818
0.6790
0.6735

1.0812
1.0814
1.0819

1.0542
1.0547
1.0558

1.0181

1.0053

–

–

20.0 
–
66.9 
86.9 

5.8 
–
7.0 
12.8 

8.6 
–
5.4 
14.0 

5.3 
11.8 
26.9 
44.0 

24.2 

25.3 

30.3
4.1
81.8
116.2

1.5
4.9
1.0
7.4

30.9
0.4
0.4
31.7

4.1
11.4
28.8
44.3

–

–

26.6 
–
88.8 
115.4 

7.6 
–
9.2 
16.8 

13.5 
–
8.8 
22.3 

4.9 
10.9 
24.9 
40.7 

24.6 

25.4 

2017
$’m

42.3
5.5
109.2
157.0

2.1
6.7
1.3
10.1

45.3
0.6
0.6
46.5

3.9
10.8
27.2
41.9

–

–

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

0.8 
–
1.5 
2.3 

(0.2)
–
(0.3)
(0.5)

0.1 
–
(0.1)
–

0.1 
0.1 
0.3 
0.5 

0.3 

(0.6)

(1.4)
(0.1)
(2.3)
(3.8)

0.1
0.3
– 
0.4

0.7
0.1
– 
0.8

– 
(0.1)
(0.1)
(0.2)

–

–

Annual Report 2018  113

G2. Capital and financial risk management – continued

c) Foreign currency risk management – continued
Cross‑currency interest rate swaps
Under cross-currency interest rate swaps, the Group is committed to exchange certain foreign currency loan principal and interest 
amounts at agreed future dates at fixed foreign exchange and interest rates. Such contracts enable the Group to eliminate the risk of 
adverse movements in foreign exchange and interest rates related to foreign currency denominated borrowings.

The following table details the Australian dollar equivalent of cross-currency interest rate swaps outstanding as at the reporting date: 

Weighted average  
AUD equivalent  
interest rate (including 
credit margin)

2018
%

2017
%

Weighted average 
exchange rate

2018

2017

Outstanding contracts

Buy USD / Sell AUD
1 to 5 years
5 years or more

Buy JPY / Sell AUD
5 years or more

7.8 
5.9 

5.2

Contract value

Fair value

2018
$’m

9.8 
129.2 
139.0 

2017
$’m

9.8
129.2
139.0

–

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

(0.5)
(5.4)
(5.9)

(6.9)

(0.9)
(4.7)
(5.6)

–

7.8
5.9

0.7785 
 0.7739 

0.7168
0.7739

–

83.1220

–

120.3

The above cross-currency interest rate swaps are designated as effective cash flow hedges.

Foreign currency sensitivity analysis
The Group is mainly exposed to the United States dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), Japanese Yen (JPY) and New Zealand dollar (NZD).

The following table details the Group’s sensitivity to movements in the Australian dollar against relevant foreign currencies. 
The percentages disclosed below represent the Group’s assessment of the possible changes in spot foreign exchange rates 
(i.e. forward exchange points and discount factors have been kept constant). The sensitivity analysis includes only outstanding 
foreign currency denominated monetary items and adjusts their translation at the period end for a given percentage change in foreign 
exchange rates.

A positive number indicates a before-tax increase in profit and equity and a negative number indicates a before-tax decrease in 
profit and equity.

USD impact

- 15% rate change
+ 15% rate change

EUR impact

- 15% rate change
+ 15% rate change

JPY impact

- 15% rate change
+ 15% rate change

NZD impact

- 15% rate change
+ 15% rate change

Profit / (loss)(i)

Equity(ii)

2018 
$’m

2017 
$’m

2018 
$’m

(0.9)
0.6 

–
–

–
–

(7.6)
5.6 

(1.7)
1.3

(0.2)
0.1

–
–

(6.9)
 5.1 

16.7 
(12.4)

(3.3)
3.3 

5.7 
(4.2)

–
–

2017 
$’m

24.9
(18.4)

7.1
(7.1)

–
–

–
–

(i)  This is mainly as a result of the changes in the value of forward foreign exchange contracts not designated in a hedge relationship, foreign currency investments, receivables 

and payables.

(ii)  This is as a result of the changes in the value of forward foreign exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges.

114  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018G2. Capital and financial risk management – continued

d) Interest rate risk management
The Group is exposed to interest rate risk as entities borrow funds at floating interest rates. The risk is managed by maintaining an 
appropriate mix between fixed and floating rate borrowings and hedging is undertaken through interest rate swap contracts and the 
issue of long-term fixed rate debt securities.

The Group’s exposure to interest rates on financial assets and financial liabilities is detailed in the table below:

Floating interest rates – cash flow exposure
Bank loans
Cash and cash equivalents

Total cash flow exposure

Fixed interest rates – fair value exposure
Bank loans(i)
USD private placement notes(i)
AUD private placement notes
Medium term notes (i) (ii) (iii)
Finance lease and hire purchase

Total fair value exposure

Weighted average  
AUD equivalent 
interest rate 
(including credit margin)

Liability / (asset)

2018
%

2017
%

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

3.4 
1.5 

2.2 
6.0 
5.8 
5.2 
4.1 

3.3
1.7

4.0
6.0
5.8
5.2
4.2

202.1 
(606.2)
(404.1)

617.7 
150.6 
30.0 
529.1 
16.5 
1,343.9 

733.7
(844.6)
(110.9)

107.0
144.7
30.0
413.6
35.8
731.1

(i)  The values of the interest rate and cross-currency swaps have been included in the debt amounts.
(ii)  2017 values include medium term notes issued on a floating rate basis and fixed through interest rate swaps.
(iii)  Weighted average interest rate is shown on a yield-to-maturity basis.

All interest rates in the above table reflect rates in the currency of the relevant loan other than USD private placement notes and JPY 
medium term notes, where the AUD rates under the relevant cross-currency swaps are used.

The table above relates to amounts that are drawn. The Group has a number of undrawn facilities, which if utilised would be on a 
floating rate basis.

Interest rate swap contracts
The Group uses interest rate swap contracts to manage interest rate exposures. Under these contracts, the Group commits to 
exchange the difference between fixed and floating rate interest amounts calculated on notional principal amounts. The fair value of 
interest rate swaps are based on market values of equivalent instruments at the reporting date.

Annual Report 2018  115

G2. Capital and financial risk management – continued

d) Interest rate risk management – continued
The following table details the interest rate swap contracts and related notional principal amounts as at the reporting date:

Outstanding floating to 
fixed swap contracts

AUD interest rate swaps

Less than 1 year
1 to 2 years

NZD interest rate swaps
Less than 1 year
1 to 2 years

Weighted average 
interest rate

Notional principal amount

Fair value

2018
%

2017
%

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

–
2.1 

–
2.2 

3.8
5.2

4.7
–

–
450.0 
450.0 

–
100.0 
100.0 

81.8
13.3
95.1

25.2
–
25.2

–
(0.2)
(0.2)

–
(0.2)
(0.2)

(1.6)
(0.2)
(1.8)

(0.7)
–
(0.7)

Interest rate sensitivity analysis
The sensitivity analysis has been determined based on the exposure to interest rates at the reporting date and assuming that the rate 
change occurs at the beginning of the financial year and is then held constant throughout the reporting period. 

Sensitivities have been based on a movement in interest rates of 100 basis points across the yield curve of the relevant currencies. 
The selected basis points increase or decrease represents the Group’s assessment of the possible change in interest rates on variable 
rate instruments, cross-currency interest rate swaps and interest rate swaps. An increase in interest rates of 100 basis points on the 
unhedged position (mostly cash and cash equivalents) will generate a profit of $5.6 million to the profit or loss, a similar decrease in 
interest rates will generate a $5.6 million loss to the profit or loss.

For hedged positions designated as cash flow hedges, an increase and decrease in interest rates of 100 basis points will generate an 
increase and decrease in equity of $4.8 million and $3.7 million, respectively.

e) Credit risk management
Credit risk refers to the risk that a financial counterparty will default on its contractual obligations, resulting in a loss to the Group. 
The Group’s exposure and the credit ratings of these counterparties are regularly monitored and transactions are diversified among 
approved counterparties. 

Trade receivables consist of a large number of customers, spread across diverse industries and geographical areas. Ongoing credit 
evaluation is performed on the financial condition of trade receivable counterparties. Refer to Note C2 for details on credit risk arising 
from trade and other receivables.

The preferred credit risk on derivative financial instruments is to counterparties that have minimum long-term credit ratings from 
Standard & Poor’s of no less than AA- (or equivalent from other rating agencies). Due to the general downward migration of the credit 
ratings of bank counterparties over recent years, the Group has exposure to banks at the A+ and A rating levels, in addition to those 
at the AA- level.

Credit risk arising from cash balances held with banks is managed by Group Treasury. Investments of surplus funds are generally only 
made with counterparties that have a minimum AA- credit rating. Investments for relatively short tenors are made from time to time 
with A+ and A rated counterparties. In limited circumstances, amounts of surplus funds are held in foreign jurisdictions where there are 
no financial institutions that meet the above minimum rating thresholds.

Financial counterparty credit limits and the related credit acceptability of counterparties are set by a Board approved Treasury Policy 
that is reviewed by the Board from time to time. The limits are set to minimise the concentration of risks and therefore mitigate financial 
loss through potential counterparty default. No material exposure is considered to exist by virtue of the non-performance of any 
financial counterparty.

The carrying amount of financial assets recorded in the financial statements, net of any allowances for losses, represents the Group’s 
maximum exposure to credit risk.
116  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018G2. Capital and financial risk management – continued

f) Liquidity risk management
Liquidity risk arises from the possibility that the Group is unable to settle a financial transaction on the due date. Liquidity risk 
management is ultimately a Board responsibility and is managed within an appropriate risk management framework under the 
Group’s Treasury policy.

The Group manages liquidity risk by maintaining adequate cash reserves and committed undrawn debt facilities, monitoring forecast 
and actual cash flows and by matching the maturity profiles of financial assets and liabilities. Included in Note E2 is a summary of 
committed undrawn bank loan facilities.

Liquidity risk tables
The following tables detail the contractual maturity of the Group’s financial liabilities. The tables are based on the undiscounted cash 
flows of financial liabilities and include both interest and principal cash flows.

2018 
$’m

Less than 
1 year

1 to 2 years

2 to 3 years

3 to 4 years 4 to 5 years

More than 
5 years

Trade payables
Finance lease and hire purchase liabilities

Bank loans
USD notes 
AUD notes 
Medium term notes

Total borrowings including interest

Cross-currency interest rate swaps(i)
Interest rate swaps
Foreign currency forward contracts

Total derivative instruments(ii)

Total

2017

Trade payables

Finance lease and hire purchase liabilities

Bank loans
USD notes
AUD notes
Medium term notes
Total borrowings including interest

Cross currency interest rate swaps(i)
Interest rate swaps
Foreign currency forward contracts
Total derivative instruments(ii)

674.2 
12.7 

27.0 
8.5 
1.7 
166.9 
204.1 

6.5 
0.3 
2.2 
9.0 

–
8.2 

75.7 
17.7 
1.7 
12.6 
107.7 

6.7 
0.1 
0.1 
6.9 

–
3.7 

494.5 
7.9 
1.7 
12.6 
516.7 

6.4 
–
–
6.4 

–
0.2 

312.6 
7.9 
1.7 
262.6 
584.8 

6.3 
–
–
6.3 

900.0 

122.8 

526.8 

591.3 

527.6

21.2

836.6
6.5
1.7
33.6
878.4

1.9 
2.2
2.7
6.8

–

9.0

2.1
6.5
1.7
165.6
175.9

1.9 
–
0.2
2.1

–

4.9

–
15.4
1.7
11.3
28.4

2.5 
–
–
2.5

–

1.0

–
6.0
1.7
11.3
19.0

1.7 
–
–
1.7

–
–

–
7.9 
1.7 
1.4 
11.0 

6.3 
–
–
6.3 

17.3 

–

–

–
6.0
1.7
261.3
269.0

1.8 
–
–
1.8

–
–

–
185.1 
34.4 
135.5 
355.0 

44.8 
–
–
44.8 

399.8 

–

–

–
151.0
36.1
–
187.1

5.0 
–
–
5.0

Total

1,434.0

187.0

35.8

21.7

270.8

192.1

(i)  Bond basis.
(ii) 

Includes assets and liabilities.

Annual Report 2018  117

G2. Capital and financial risk management – continued

Recognition and measurement
Derivative financial instruments
Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair 
value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are 
subsequently re-measured to their fair value at each reporting 
date. Any gains or losses arising from changes in fair value of 
derivatives, except those that qualify as effective hedges, are 
immediately recognised in profit or loss. 

Hedge accounting
When the Group designates certain derivatives to be part of 
a hedging relationship, and they meet the criteria for hedge 
accounting, the hedges are classified as either fair value or 
cash flow hedges. 

Fair value hedges
Fair value hedges are used to hedge the exposure to changes in 
the fair value of a recognised asset, liability or firm commitment. 
For fair value hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivative, 
together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset 
or liability that is attributable to the hedged risk, are immediately 
recorded in profit or loss. Hedge accounting is discontinued 
when the hedge instrument expires or is sold, terminated, 
exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting.

Cash flow hedges
Cash flow hedges are used to hedge risks associated with 
contracted and highly probable forecast transactions. For cash 
flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of 
the derivative is deferred in equity and the gain or loss relating to 
the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or loss.

Amounts deferred in equity are transferred to profit or loss 
in the same period the hedged item is recognised in profit or 
loss. When the forecast transaction that is hedged results in 
the recognition of a non-financial asset or liability, the gains 
and losses previously deferred in equity are transferred to form 
part of the initial measurement of the cost of the non-financial 
asset or liability. 

If the forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the 
cumulative gain or loss that was deferred in equity is recognised 
immediately in profit or loss. If the hedge instrument expires or 
is sold, terminated, exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge 
accounting, any gain or loss deferred in equity remains in equity 
until the forecast transaction occurs. 

118  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018G3. Other financial assets and liabilities

2018 
$’m

At amortised cost:

Other financial assets
Advances to / from joint ventures and associates
Deferred consideration

At fair value:
Level 2
Foreign currency forward contracts – Cash flow hedge
Foreign currency forward contracts – Fair value through profit or loss
Cross-currency and interest rate swaps – Cash flow hedge

Level 3
Unquoted equity investments – Available-for-sale
Contingent consideration

Total

2017
$’m

At amortised cost:

Other financial assets
Advances to/from joint ventures and associates

At fair value:
Level 2
Foreign currency forward contracts – Cash flow hedge
Cross-currency and interest rate swaps – Cash flow hedge

Level 3
Unquoted equity investments – Available-for-sale
Contingent consideration

Total

Financial assets

Financial liabilities

Current Non-current

Current Non-current

10.0 
5.1 
–
15.1 

3.0 
0.5 
–
3.5 

–
–
–
18.6 

13.5 
–
–
13.5 

–
–
–
–

2.0 
–
2.0 
15.5 

–
11.3 
8.0 
19.3 

1.2 
0.1 
6.1 
7.4 

–
16.5 
16.5 
43.2 

–
–
13.3 
13.3 

–
–
7.1 
7.1 

–
13.8 
13.8 
34.2 

Financial assets

Financial liabilities

Current Non-current

Current Non-current

9.8
1.5
11.3

1.2
–
1.2

–
–
–
12.5

13.4
–
13.4

–
–
–

3.7
–
3.7
17.1

–
13.2
13.2

3.8
3.5
7.3

–
3.3
3.3
23.8

–
–
–

0.2
4.6
4.8

–
16.9
16.9
21.7

Reconciliation of Level 3 fair value measurements of financial assets
Level 3 investments decreased by $1.7 million from prior year (2017: $1.4 million decrease) mostly due to revaluation and 
return on investment.

Annual Report 2018  119

G3. Other financial assets and liabilities – continued

Recognition and measurement
Fair value measurement
When a derivative is designated as the cash flow hedging instrument, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative 
is recognised in Other Comprehensive Income and accumulated in the hedging reserve. Any ineffective portion of changes in the fair 
value of the derivative is recognised immediately in profit or loss.

Valuation of financial instruments
For financial instruments measured and carried at fair value, the Group uses the following to categorise the methods used:
 – Level 1: fair value is calculated using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
 – Level 2: fair value is estimated using inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or 

liability, either directly (as prices) or indirectly (derived from prices); and

 – Level 3: fair value is estimated using inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data.

During the year there were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 fair value hierarchies.

The following table shows the valuation technique used in measuring Level 2 and 3 fair values, as well as significant 
unobservable inputs used:

Type 

Valuation technique

Significant unobservable input

Cross-currency and interest rate swaps

Foreign currency forward contracts 

Unquoted equity investments

Calculated using the present value of the 
estimated future cash flows based on 
observable yield curves.
Calculated using forward exchange rates 
prevailing at the balance sheet date.
Calculated based on the Group’s interest in 
the net assets of the unquoted entities.

Contingent Consideration

Calculated on the amounts expected to be 
paid based on the probability of contingent 
events and targets being achieved, 
determined by reference to forecasts 
of future performance of the acquired 
businesses discounted using the market 
rates prevailing at financial year end.

Not applicable.

Not applicable.

Assumptions are made with regard to future 
expected revenues and discount rates.

Changing the inputs to the valuations to 
reasonably possible alternative assumptions 
would not significantly change the amounts 
recognised in profit or loss, total assets or 
total liabilities, or total equity.
Assumptions are made with regard to future 
expected earnings and discount rates on 
certain of the contingent arrangements.

120  Downer EDI Limited

Notes to the consolidated financial statements – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Directors’ Declaration
for the year ended 30 June 2018

In the opinion of the Directors of Downer EDI Limited:

(a)  The financial statements and notes set out on pages 62 to 120 are in accordance with the Australian Corporations Act 2001 (Cth),  

including:

(i)  Complying with Accounting Standards, the Corporations Regulations 2001 and other mandatory professional reporting 

requirements; and

(ii)  The financial statements and notes thereto give a true and fair view of the financial position and performance of the Company 

and the consolidated entity;

(b)  There are reasonable grounds to believe that Downer EDI Limited will be able to pay its debts as and when they become 

due and payable;

(c)  The Directors have been given the declarations required by Section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth); and

(d)  The attached financial statements are in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as noted in Note A 

to the financial statements.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Directors made pursuant to Section 295(5) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

On behalf of the Directors

R M Harding 
Chairman

Sydney, 16 August 2018

Annual Report 2018  121

Sustainability Performance Summary 2018

Downer’s approach to sustainability

Sustainability at Downer means environment sustainability, 
the safety of its people, sustainable growth, sustainable 
supply chains, and a sustainable diverse inclusive workforce. 
Downer recognises that sustainability is vital for securing 
long-term environmental, economic and social viability and 
understands its role in contributing to a sustainable future for 
communities to prosper.

Sustainability is intrinsically linked to Downer’s business strategy 
because the sustainability of Downer’s activities is fundamental 
to the Company’s future success. 

Downer’s sustainability strategy is shaped by its four Pillars: 
Safety, Delivery, Relationships and Thought Leadership. Downer’s 
commitment to sustainability is outlined on the Downer website 
at www. downergroup.com.

As an integrated services company, Downer’s contribution 
to sustainability is also achieved by providing its customers 
with industry leading solutions that drive and provide 
efficiency reducing the impact of customers’ operations on 
the environment.

Downer works closely with the local communities in which it 
operates to achieve better social outcomes, implementing a 
range of initiatives focusing on social responsibility, local and 
Indigenous employment, cultural heritage management and 
stakeholder engagement.

Downer success is a direct result of the experience, capability 
and engagement of Downer’s people. Downer embraces 
diversity and inclusiveness in the workplace. Downer relies on, 
and encourages, its people to contribute a diverse range of 
skills and experiences in order to deliver the best outcomes 
for its customers. Downer continues to strengthen its focus on 
recruiting strategically to increase workforce participation across 
a range of demographics. 

Downer’s approach to reporting

Downer has prepared its Sustainability Report with reference 
to the Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) Standards to provide 
investors with comparable information relating to environmental, 
social and governance (ESG) performance. Specifically, 
Downer’s approach takes into consideration the GRI’s principles 
for informing report content: materiality, completeness, and 
sustainability context and stakeholder inclusiveness. A key focus 
is to demonstrate how Downer delivers sustainable returns while 
managing risk and being responsible in how it operates.

What’s new?

Some of the new topics discussed in the Sustainability Report 
this year include:

 – Alignment to the GRI Standards from G4 Guideline;
 – Alignment of Case Studies to the UN Sustainable 

Development Goals;

122  Downer EDI Limited

 – Adoption of Task Force on Climate-related Financial 

Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations;

 – Inclusion of Spotless’ data (excluding health, safety and 

environmental data for New Zealand); and

 – Inclusion of ESG Sustainability Analyst Rating Scores.

Governance and Risk Management

The Board’s Zero Harm Committee oversees the development 
and implementation of Downer’s workplace health and safety 
and environmental management systems. The effectiveness of 
these systems is monitored through extensive internal and third-
party audit programs, with oversight by both the Board Zero 
Harm and Board Audit and Risk Committees. Other aspects of 
Downer’s approach to sustainability are overseen by the Group 
Diversity Committee and its other corporate governance forums.

The Downer Board has oversight of ensuring Downer duly 
considers climate-related risks and receives guidance from the 
Audit and Risk Committee, Zero Harm Committee, Tender Risk 
Evaluation Committee and Disclosure Committee. Climate related 
risks and opportunities form part of Downer’s broader corporate 
strategy, planning and risk management. 

The Downer Board recognises that an integrated approach to 
managing climate-related risks and opportunities is essential. 
This has been reflected in the strengthening of Downer’s 
governance structure and increased focus on this risk in both 
Board and executive forums throughout the 2018 financial year.
This has included: 
 – formal updates to the Board on a six-monthly basis and Audit 
and Risk and Zero Harm Committees on a bi-monthly basis;
 – regular updates and stakeholder engagement with the Group 

Executive Committee; 

 – amendments to the Audit and Risk Committee Charter 
to include explicit reference to climate-related risks 
and opportunities;

 – inclusion of climate-related risks and opportunities in the 

annual Board strategy agenda;

 – incorporating additional questions focused on the 

identification of climate-related risks and opportunities 
in the bi-annual Financial and Corporate Governance 
Self-Assessment; and

 – incorporating climate-related risk and opportunity 

discussions in Divisional executive meetings, including 
climate-related workshops with senior leadership teams 
of each Division.

Climate-related risks are governed as part of Downer’s Group 
Risk and Opportunity Management Framework and Project Risk 
Management Framework. Downer identify, manage and disclose 
material climate-related risks as part of Downer’s standard 
business practices, and, in accordance with the Group and 
Divisional strategies, which apply to everyone at Downer. 

The Audit and Risk Committee Charter explicitly addresses 
climate-related risk. To further strengthen Downer’s risk 
management framework in line with the range of impacts and 
considerations associated with climate risk over the short, 
medium and long-term horizons, the Consequence Rating 
Table within the Group’s Risk and Opportunity Management 
Framework includes climate change risks and opportunities to 
enable senior management and employees to understand and 
assess the potential risks and opportunities arising from various 
future scenarios when making decisions that affect Downer.

Downer’s Zero Harm Management System Framework sets 
the Company’s sustainability governance requirements. 
Downer uses a Company-wide Risk Management Framework 
and divisional integrated management systems to identify 
and manage sustainability issues and opportunities. 
Downer has been certified (as a minimum) to the following 
standards: AS/NZS 4801 or OHSAS 18001 (for occupational 
health and safety management systems); ISO 14001 
environmental management systems; and IS0 9001 quality 
management systems.

The method for measuring the Company’s performance is clearly 
set out in its governance framework. Short-term remuneration 
incentives are offered to senior managers in relation to the 
Company’s performance against environmental sustainability 
targets. These targets include the management of critical 
environmental risks and GHG emissions reduction.

Downer’s Zero Harm performance during 2018 is summarised 
below. More comprehensive information is provided in Downer’s 
2018 Sustainability Report which will be available on the 
Downer website.

Health and safety

Health and safety is Downer’s highest priority. Downer believe 
that work can be performed safely and without injury to 
Downer’s people. Downer is committed to the pursuit of 
Zero Harm to its employees, contractors, and those directly 
affected by the Company’s operations. Downer’s commitment 
is enhanced by strong leadership from senior leaders within the 
business, who actively engage, enable and empower Downer’s 
people to work safely, and maintain safe working environments 
for themselves and the community. As Downer’s health and 
safety performance demonstrates, Downer has a mature safety 
culture, and is proud of its people’s support and commitment to 
Downer’s Zero Harm principles and practices. 

Downer’s strategic plan for critical risk management continues 
to be a key focus of Downer’s Zero Harm program. As the critical 
risk program has matured within its business, the strategy 
embraces the identification of opportunities to further harmonise 
the way that shared critical risks are managed throughout 

the business. This presents opportunities to increase the 
consistency and effectiveness of critical risk management within 
Downer’s business, while continuing to focus on evaluation and 
assurance of critical controls by multiple layers of management 
and frontline leaders. 

Downer continue to focus on investing in the capability of its 
frontline leaders, and recognise the important role they hold 
in cultivating a workplace culture focused on prevention of 
harm. Downer’s strategy this year includes enhancement of 
internal training provided to Downer’s leaders and incorporates 
advancements in learning methodologies.

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Environmental sustainability

Downer’s environmental sustainability performance is measured 
against the key areas of risk management, compliance, 
minimising environmental impact and maximising resource 
efficiency opportunities in its own and its customers’ businesses. 
Downer’s key focus areas during the year were:
 – continuing to focus on the resilience and assurance of 

environmental risk controls;

 – incorporating sustainability rating tools and initiatives into 

major projects;

 – improving environmental workforce capability; 
 – engaging with customers regarding Downer’s environmental 

capability; and

 – positioning its businesses for the transition to a low 

carbon economy. 

Downer achieved its Group-wide target of zero Level 51 or 
Level 62 environmental incidents. There were no significant 
environmental incidents3 (≥ Level 4) during financial year 2018. 
However, Downer incurred four minor infringement notices 
totalling NZD$3,000 relating to its New Zealand operations, 
(further information is available in the 2018 Sustainability Report).

1 

2 
3 

A Level 5 environmental incident is defined as any incident that causes significant impact or serious harm on the environment, where material harm has occurred and if 
costs in aggregate exceed $50,000.
A Level 6 environmental incident is defined as an incident that results in catastrophic widespread impact on the environment, resulting in irreversible damage.
A significant environmental incident or significant environmental spill (≥ Level 4) is any environmental incident or spill where there is significant impact on or material harm 
to the environment; or there is long-term community irritation leading to disruptive actions and requiring continual management attention.

Annual Report 2018  123

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sustainability Performance Summary 2018 – continued

Achievements for 2018 include: 
 – Plastiphalt – the launch of a new recycled asphalt product 
to join the series of Downer’s recycled road products. 
Partnering with Hume City Council, Close the Loop and RED 
Group, Downer produced and laid a road manufactured using 
soft plastics and glass, in an Australian first. 

 – The Rosehill Detritus Plant – Downer opened a repurposing 
facility which is capable of cost effectively processing, 
separating and cleaning more than 40,000 tonnes annually 
from street sweepings and stormwater pits. Approximately 
85% of detritus can be converted into meaningful streams 
of material for reuse such as organic matter, sand, gravel, 
metals and plastic. 

 – Smart stormwater drains – working with partners Yarra Valley 

Rangers Council, Fujitsu and EYEfi, Downer has helped 
implement a network of sensors, technology and software 
architecture which monitors water levels and potential flow 
rates within stormwater drains to reduce the risk of flooding. 
Regular rising water alerts sent to response and maintenance 
teams enable faster responses and opportunities for 
preventative action.

In the renewable energy sector Downer remains one of 
Australia’s largest and most experienced delivery partners 
offering design, build and maintenance services for wind farms, 
wind turbine sites and solar farms. Downer has been involved in 
the construction of approximately half the wind turbines built in 
Australia and has worked, or is currently working, on 576MW of 
capacity with the Sunshine Coast, Clare, Beryl and Ross River 
solar farms and Murra Warra Wind Farm (Stage 1). Downer’s 
experience in the renewables sector led to its work at the Ararat 
Wind Farm being awarded4 Australia’s first ISCA rating for a 
renewables project. 

Downer’s climate risk journey

Downer conducts business in a way that is sustainable. 
At Downer there are many facets of sustainable operations, 
including climate change impacts and ultimately this requires 
making sure that it runs its business as efficiently as possible 
and by providing innovative solutions to customers that reduce 
their environmental footprints. Downer recognises that the 
impact of climate change presents a challenge to business, 
society and the natural environment. While Downer’s business 
portfolio is diverse, it has limited exposure to the effects of 
climate change impacts on its business through fixed, long lived 
capital assets. Downer’s diverse portfolio allows it to be flexible 
and agile to redeploy its assets to high growth areas as markets 
change. This portfolio diversity strongly positions Downer 
to mitigate and manage its exposure to climate risks and to 
maximise the business opportunities it presents.

In this reporting period a detailed assessment against 
the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures 
(TCFD) framework has been conducted and disclosures 
presented are aligned with the TCFD recommendations. In 
conducting its assessment, Downer considered the diversity 
of its operations and portfolio, in the context of transitional, 
physical and reputational risks as well as considering 
opportunities particularly in respect of transport, new markets 
and technological changes. This review did not identify any 
material short-term risks to the Downer business in respect of 
climate change, however risks and opportunities across short, 
medium and long-term horizons were identified and these are 
outlined below. 

Downer’s existing Group and Divisional strategy process 
already considers the key external drivers as mentioned 
above. Downer has also enhanced its strategy process to more 
explicitly incorporate climate-related risks and opportunities on 
an ongoing basis. Downer has already embedded this process 
in the annual Group strategy session, with the intention of 
implementing a similar process into the Divisional strategy 
sessions during the 2019 period. 

Outlined below are the key climate-related risks and 
opportunities. These risks and opportunities are not listed in 
order of significance and are not intended to be exhaustive. 
They are a representative sample of the risks identified 
during the review undertaken in the 2018 financial year. 
They are informed by a review of Group and Divisional risk 
registers, interviews and workshops with senior management, 
and employees. 

As indicated below, the majority of Downer’s climate-related 
risks have been deemed to impact the business in the medium 
to longer term. Opportunities identified relate primarily to 
leveraging Downer’s existing capabilities and business model as 
a service provider to service new and adjacent emerging markets 
that arise from the transition to a lower carbon economy.

Downer has made significant progress to date in assessing 
climate-related risks and opportunities and in the 2019 financial 
year Downer is committed to exploring further the impacts of 
these items through analysis and identification of appropriate 
metrics and targets.

Stemming from the risk and opportunity analysis undertaken 
already, Downer’s focus for scenario analysis will now be in the 
following areas:
 – outlook for metallurgic and thermal coal;
 – impact of extreme weather (increase in rainfall and 

temperature); and

 – energy transition, considering both the impact on energy 

prices and opportunities for alternative generation sources.

4 

This award was issued in the 2018 financial year.

124  Downer EDI Limited

Downer FY2018 TCFD 

Climate change is a global challenge. As a diverse organisation with operations spanning across the Asia Pacific region, Downer 
acknowledges that climate change will impact its business, which will present a combination of climate-related risks and opportunities 
over the medium to long term. 

Recognising the need for increased information on climate-related impacts, the TCFD developed voluntary, consistent climate-related 
financial disclosures for use by investors, lenders, insurers and other stakeholders to inform decision making in relation to climate risk.

The final TCFD report was released in June 2017 and is supported by Downer. This report recommended improved disclosures in 
relation to the areas of governance, strategy, risk management and metrics and targets relevant to climate risk. The TCFD recognises 
that meaningful adoption of the report’s recommendations will be achieved over a three-year timeframe as both experience and 
disclosures evolve in response to clearer messaging from financial markets about the information they require to measure and respond 
to climate-related risks and opportunities.

Downer supports the TCFD objectives. Commencing in the 2018 financial year Downer’s climate related disclosures align with the 
TCFD recommendations and build on Downer’s disclosures in the 2017 financial year.

Risk

Description

TCFD Risk Type

Impacts of increasing 
energy costs

Exposure to extreme 
weather events

Exposure to thermal 
coal contracts

Increased operational 
costs due to increase 
in electricity, gaseous 
and liquid fuel prices, 
materially impacting 
high energy consuming 
service lines

Severe weather events 
impacting the delivery of 
contractual obligations. 
For example, resource 
mobilisation, health and 
safety, and security

Transition to a low 
carbon economy leads 
to reduced demand for 
thermal coal for power 
generation

Transition: Market 
and Policy

Potential Impact 
to Business

Management Response 
and Mitigation

Decreased profitability 
from contracts in energy-
intensive service lines
Time horizon: Medium 
to Long Term

Continue identifying and 
implementing energy 
efficiency initiatives

Physical: Acute and 
Chronic, and Legal

Inability to achieve 
contractual schedules 
due to adverse and 
severe weather events
Time horizon: 
Long Term

Continue to assess contractual 
arrangements with respect 
to acute and chronic weather 
events to ensure appropriate 
mitigation measures are 
in place

Transition: Policy, 
Legal, Technology 
Changes, Market 
Changes, Reputation

Reputational risks arise 
from Downer’s continual 
exposure to the coal 
sector
Time horizon: 
Medium Term

Continue to monitor demand 
forecasts for thermal coal 
– particularly local demand 
driven by power stations that 
are current customers for 
existing thermal coal mining 
services contracts
Undertake scenario analysis of 
Downer’s medium to long term 
exposure to metallurgical and 
thermal coal
When reviewing contract 
extensions / new contracts, 
continue to undertake analysis 
to increase exposure to mines 
that are expected to maintain 
competitiveness in light of 
the transition to a low carbon 
economy

Annual Report 2018  125

Sustainability Performance Summary 2018 – continued

Risk

Description

TCFD Risk Type

Changing design 
and construction 
requirements

Physical and liability: 
Acute and Chronic, 
Policy, Legal and 
Reputation

Increased climate-
related risk 
requirements relevant 
to the construction of 
infrastructure driven 
by changing customer 
expectations and 
increased climate-related 
design requirements 
stipulated in EPCM 
contracts

Potential Impact 
to Business

Management Response 
and Mitigation

Increased cost of EPCM 
services and challenges 
to the competitiveness of 
Downer’s services
Time horizon: Medium 
to Long Term

Continue to assess contractual 
arrangements with respect 
to design and construction 
events to ensure appropriate 
mitigation measures are place

Response to climate-related opportunities

Opportunity

Description

TCFD Opportunity 
Type

Potential Growth 
to Business

Existing renewable 
energy capability and 
market presence

Expertise with 
developing, implementing 
and maintaining 
renewable energy assets

Resource efficiency 
and Products/
Services

Leverage existing 
mining capabilities 
to service new and 
adjacent markets

Transition to low carbon 
is driving demand for 
base (e.g. Copper, Gold) 
and precious metals (e.g. 
Lithium, Zinc) critical for 
this transition

Products/Services 
and Markets

Response services 
to extreme weather 
events

Products/Services, 
Markets and 
Resilience

Increased frequency 
and impacts of extreme 
weather events drive 
increase demand for 
disaster recovery and 
resilience services

Transition to a low 
carbon economy drives 
increased demand 
for renewable energy 
technology and 
infrastructure services, 
as well as broader 
smart city products and 
services

Opportunity to leverage 
existing mining 
capabilities to service 
new and adjacent 
markets with products 
essential for the 
transition to a low carbon 
economy

Opportunity to further 
leverage Downer’s 
existing expertise in 
responding to asset 
damage from extreme 
weather events. 
Opportunity to also 
leverage this expertise to 
improve the resilience of 
existing assets

Management Response

 – Strengthen existing and 

establish new relationships 
with key customers
 – Leverage Downer’s 

capability and broaden 
Downer’s service offerings

 – Strengthen existing and 

establish new relationships 
with key customers
 – Leverage Downer’s 

capability and broaden 
Downer’s service offerings

 – Continue to work with 

Government customers on 
emergency response to 
extreme weather response

 – Strengthen and leverage 

existing capability
 – Incorporate climate 

change and adaptation 
into the design of any 
infrastructure contract

126  Downer EDI Limited

Corporate Governance 
for the year ended 30 June 2018

Overview

Downer’s corporate governance framework provides the 
platform from which:
 – The Board is accountable to shareholders for the operations, 

performance and growth of the Company;

 – Downer management is accountable to the Board;
 – The risks to Downer’s business are identified 

and managed; and

 – Downer effectively communicates with its shareholders 

and the investment community.

Downer has written employment agreements with each of 
its senior executives and the performance of those senior 
executives is regularly reviewed against appropriate measures, 
including performance targets linked to the business plan and 
overall corporate objectives. In 2018, Downer’s senior executives 
participated in periodic performance evaluations where they 
received feedback on progress against these targets.

The Company Secretary is responsible for supporting the 
effectiveness of the Board and is directly accountable to the 
Board, through the Chairman, on all matters to do with the proper 
functioning of the Board.

Downer continues to enhance its policies and processes to 
promote leading corporate governance practices.

Details of Downer’s Directors and the Executive Leadership Team 
are available on the Downer website at www. downergroup.com.

The Board endorses the ASX Corporate Governance Council’s 
Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations 
(ASX Principles).

Principle 1: Lay solid foundations 
for management and oversight

The Downer Board Charter sets out the functions and 
responsibilities of the Board and is available on the Downer 
website at www. downergroup.com.

The Board Charter states that the role of the Board is to provide 
strategic guidance and to effectively oversee management of the 
Company. Among other things, the Board is responsible for:
 – Overseeing the Company, including its control and 

accountability systems;

 – Appointing and removing the Group CEO and 

senior executives;

 – Monitoring performance of the Group CEO and senior 

executives; and

 – Reviewing, ratifying and monitoring systems of risk 
management and internal control, codes of conduct 
and legal compliance.

Before appointing a Director, the Board undertakes appropriate 
checks and provides shareholders with all material information 
which is relevant to the decision to elect or re-elect a Director.

Directors receive formal letters of engagement setting out the 
key terms, conditions and expectations of their engagement.

The Board Charter also describes the functions delegated to 
management, led by the Group CEO.

The primary goal set for management by the Board is to focus 
on enhancing shareholder value, which includes responsibility 
for Downer’s economic, environmental and social performance.

The Group CEO is responsible for the day-to-day 
management of Downer and his authority is delegated and 
authorised by the Board.

Diversity at Downer
Downer is committed to ensuring that it has a diverse and 
inclusive workforce, which fulfils the expectations of its 
employees, customers and shareholders while building a 
sustainable future for its business. This is formalised through 
the Downer Diversity & Inclusiveness (D&I) Policy which outlines 
the Company’s commitment to developing a diverse and 
inclusive workforce.

In 2016, Downer launched a revised Diversity Framework. 
The purpose of this framework is to support the D&I Policy 
and implementation of Divisional D&I strategies.

The Diversity & Inclusiveness Policy is available on the Downer 
website at www. downergroup.com.

ASX diversity recommendations – diversity statement
This diversity statement outlines Downer’s performance 
throughout 2018 with respect to its broader diversity program, 
but with a particular focus on gender, and specifically includes:
 – Details of Downer’s key gender representation metrics;
 – An overview of the gender diversity initiatives undertaken 

by Downer throughout 2018; and

 – An outline of Downer’s measurable gender diversity 

objectives for 2019.

Gender representation metrics
As at 30 June 2018, the gender representation metrics 
were as follows:
 – Three of the six Non-executive Directors on the Downer 

Board are women;

 – Women currently make up 21% of Senior Executive1 roles;
 – 17% of Manager2 roles are held by women; and
 – Women constitute approximately 35% of Downer’s workforce.

1 

2 

For present purposes, “Senior Executive” refers to CEO, KMP and Other Executives/General Managers as defined in the Workplace Gender Equality Agency Reference guide 
to the workplace profile and reporting questionnaire (WGEA Reference Guide).
For present purposes, “Manager” refers to CEO, KMP, Other Executives/General Managers, Senior Managers and Other Managers as defined in the WGEA Reference Guide.

Annual Report 2018  127

Looking back: 2018 measurable objectives

Objective

Outcome

Through the Talent Management and 
Succession Planning process ensure 
that identified top female talent (across 
the Divisions) have active performance 
and development plans that are tracking 
to plan.
Develop tools, policies and training in 
relation to Flexible Work and pilot within the 
Rail Division to ensure that individual and 
business needs are met. Set and monitor 
targets to measure employee engagement 
in flexible work and report to the GDSC.
Review and update Downer’s Parental 
Leave Policy to include employer funded 
paid parental leave for secondary carers.

Following the successful delivery of 
Downers ‘Reflect’ RAP, draft an ‘Innovate’ 
RAP which includes a focus on cultural 
learning, Aboriginal and Torres Strait 
Islander employment and supplier diversity.
To continue the association with Jawun 
in Australia and Māori based leadership 
programs in New Zealand.

Establish baseline data on Aboriginal 
and Torres Strait Islander people working 
at Downer.

Active performance and development plans are in place for all identified 
female talent at Downer as part of the annual Performance and Development 
Review Process.

In February, a program of work on flexibility was formally launched to Corporate 
and Rail Division employees based at the North Ryde office. This included 
supporting resources for managers and employees. Annual measurement 
of participation in flexible work practices is being managed through Human 
Resources. Employee attitude and perceptions of flexible work is measured 
through the annual employee engagement survey.
A review on Downer’s Parental Leave Policy benchmarked against 30+ large 
Australian based employers was completed. A cost model and recommendations 
were presented to and endorsed by Divisional Human Resources and Divisional 
Diversity Steering Committees. 
Downer’s second Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) has been drafted. This RAP 
is an ‘Innovate’ RAP and focuses on implementing reconciliation with an 
emphasises on strengthening relationships.

 – Seven employees participated in the Jawun secondment program in Cape 

York, West Kimberley, or Inner Sydney this year. Since the program inception, 
37 employees have been on secondment and this represents 222 weeks of 
secondment placements allowing Indigenous-led organisations to access 
Downer’s talented employees.

 – 155 employees have participated in our marae-based Maori Leadership 
program. Through this program Downer continues to see an increase in 
Maori employees in senior positions.

Downer commenced capturing data on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 
identity when voluntarily provided by new employees. Additionally, Aboriginal 
and Torres Strait Islander employees have the option to identify their ancestry in 
the annual employee engagement survey.

128  Downer EDI Limited

Corporate Governance – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Looking ahead: 2019 measurable objectives

Focus Area 

Objective

Targets

Initiatives 

Brand & Reputation To enhance the brand 

Gender Diversity

and reputation of Downer 
Group through partnerships 
related to our diversity focus 
areas and to ensure Downer 
Group continues to be 
viewed as an organisation 
that is committed to D&I.

To improve opportunities 
for women to reach their 
potential through an 
inclusive work environment 
while positioning Downer 
Group as a preferred 
employer for women in our 
industry.

Establish two partnerships 
with reputable diversity 
agencies.

37% women in the workforce 
by 2020.

20% women in management 
by 2020.

 – Actively consider partnering with the Diversity 

Council of Australia and/or the Australian Human 
Rights Commission to strengthen and illustrate 
Downer’s commitment to Diversity and Inclusion.
 – Build Downer’s employee value proposition that 
builds on employee engagement survey findings 
– including through regular internal and external 
messaging focused on an inclusive culture. 
 – Launch a new Downer paid parental leave policy 

during the period.

 – Establish a mentoring program during the period 
where 15 high performing women are paired 
with high performing leaders to support their 
development goals.   

 – Build the executive talent pool of senior females 

with focused development opportunities 
including Downer ExeLD program (five places) 
and targeted external development through 
Chief Executive Women (three places).

 – Implementation of a new learning module during 
the period and to be completed progressively 
by hiring managers. The module will focus 
on diversity insights relevant to recruitment 
processes so that hiring managers are able to 
apply insights that are focused on achieving 
improved gender diversity. 

 – Launch Downer Group’s second Reconciliation 
Action Plan during the period to demonstrate 
the ongoing commitment to reconciliation. 
 – Develop two partnerships with Indigenous 

pre-employment agencies during the period to 
support the commitment to closing the gap. 
 – All Supervisors and above will complete cultural 

awareness training, which will commence 
during the period.

3% Aboriginal and Torres 
Strait Islander employees 
by 2020.

Cultural Diversity

Generational 
Diversity

To build on Downer Group’s 
commitment to closing 
the gap by increasing 
Indigenous workforce 
participation and developing 
strategic partnerships with 
Indigenous organisations 
and community groups.

To establish Downer Group 
as a sought-after employer 
for all age-groups and as 
an organisation that builds 
a talent pipeline of thought 
leaders and continues to 
value experience.

Build our Linked-In ranking 
(currently the 12th most 
sought after business to 
work for). 

 – Build a talent pipeline by investing in youth 

programs that align to our diversity focus of both 
female and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 
priority areas, including:

Maintain or increase 
the number of graduate 
employees year-on-year 
until 2021.

 – The Downer Graduate Development Program 
(continue to unify a one Downer approach to 
graduate recruitment). 

 – Establish governance structure and a framework 
for the Downer Apprentice and Trainee Program 
that supports strategic attraction and selection. 

 – Develop D&I image guidelines to ensure 

internal and external collateral covers the broad 
spectrum of diverse employees (with a focus 
on generational).

Annual Report 2018  129

Principle 2: Structure the Board to add value

Throughout the 2018 financial year, the Board was comprised of 
a majority of independent Directors.

Downer’s governance framework requires each Director to 
promptly disclose actual and possible conflicts of interest, any 
interests in contracts, other directorships or offices held, related 
party transactions and any dealing in the Company’s securities.

The Board is currently comprised of the Chairman (Mike Harding, 
an independent, Non-executive Director), five other independent, 
Non-executive Directors and an Executive Director (the Group 
CEO, Grant Fenn). Details of the members of the Board, including 
their skills, experience, status and their term of office are set out 
in the Directors’ Report on pages 2 to 3 and are also available on 
the Downer website at www. downergroup.com.

The composition of the Board is reviewed and assessed by the 
Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee to ensure 
the Board is of a composition, size and commitment to effectively 
discharge its responsibilities and duties.

Directors are required to bring their independent judgement to 
bear on all Board decisions. To facilitate this, it is Downer’s policy 
to provide Directors with access to independent professional 
advice at the Company’s expense in appropriate circumstances.

Downer’s Non-executive Directors recognise the benefit of 
conferring regularly without management present, and they do 
so at various times throughout the year.

The Board considers that an independent Director is a Non- 
executive Director who is not a member of management and 
who is free of any business or other relationship that could (or 
could reasonably be perceived to) materially interfere with the 
independent exercise of their judgement. The Board regularly 
assesses the independence of each Director to ensure that each 
Director has the capacity to bring independent judgement to 
bear on issues before the Board and to act in the best interests 
of Downer as a whole.

Board Committee

Audit and Risk

Chairman

S A Chaplain

Zero Harm

C G Thorne

Nominations and Corporate Governance

R M Harding

Remuneration

Disclosure

Rail Projects

T G Handicott

T G Handicott

P S Garling

Tender Risk Evaluation

C G Thorne

130  Downer EDI Limited

At least one Director must retire from office at each Annual 
General Meeting (AGM). No Non-executive Director can 
serve more than three years without offering themselves 
for re-election.

The Chairman of the Board is an independent, Non-executive 
Director. He is responsible for the leadership of the Board 
and for the efficient organisation and functioning of the 
Board. The Chairman is appointed by the Board to ensure 
that a high standard of values, governance and constructive 
interaction is maintained.

The Chairman facilitates the effective contribution of all 
Directors and promotes constructive and respectful relations 
between Directors and the Board and management. He also 
represents the views of the Board to Downer’s shareholders and 
conducts the AGM.

The roles of Chairman and Group CEO are not exercised by 
the same person and the division of responsibilities between 
the Chairman and the Group CEO have been agreed by the 
Board and are set out in the Board Charter and Downer’s 
Delegations Policy.

The Board has established a number of committees to assist the 
Board to effectively and efficiently execute its responsibilities. 
A list of the main Board Committees and their current 
membership is set out in the table below.

Members

P S Garling
T G Handicott
N M Hollows
C G Thorne
S A Chaplain
G A Fenn
S A Chaplain
T G Handicott
P S Garling
R M Harding
G A Fenn
R M Harding
G A Fenn
T G Handicott
R M Harding
G A Fenn
T G Handicott
R M Harding

Corporate Governance – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018The names of members of each committee, the number of 
meetings and the attendances by each of the members of the 
various committees to which they are appointed is set out in the 
Directors’ Report on page 19.

The Tender Risk Evaluation Committee’s primary purpose is 
to oversee tenders and contracts that exceed the delegation 
of the Group CEO. The Tender Risk Evaluation Committee, 
is chaired by an independent Director and comprises five 
members, including the Group CEO. Meetings of the Tender 
Risk Evaluation Committee are convened as required to review 
tender opportunities.

The Board has established the Nominations and Corporate 
Governance Committee to oversee the practices for selection 
and appointment of Directors of the Company.

The Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee’s 
primary purpose is to support and advise the Board on fulfilling 
its responsibilities to shareholders by ensuring that the Board 
is comprised of individuals who are best able to discharge the 
responsibilities of Directors having regard to the law and leading 
governance practice.

The Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee 
has a charter which sets out its roles and responsibilities, 
composition, structure, membership requirements and the 
procedures for inviting non-committee members to attend 
meetings. The Nominations and Corporate Governance 
Committee Charter gives the Nominations and Corporate 
Governance Committee access to internal and external 
resources, including advice from external consultants and 
specialists. The Nominations and Corporate Governance 
Committee Charter is available on the Downer website at  
www. downergroup.com.

The Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee, all 
members of which are independent Directors, is chaired by an 
independent Director and has a minimum of three members.

The Committee’s responsibilities include:
 – Assessing the skills and competencies required on the Board;
 – Assessing the extent to which the required skills are 

represented on the Board;

 – Establishing processes for the review of the performance 

of individual Directors and the Board as a whole;

 – Establishing processes for identifying suitable candidates 
for appointment to the Board (including undertaking a 
formal due diligence screening process); and
 – Recommending the engagement of nominated 

persons as Directors.

When appointing Directors, the Nominations and Corporate 
Governance Committee aims to ensure that an appropriate 
balance of skills, experience, expertise and diversity is 
represented on the Board. This may result in a non-executive 
Director with a longer tenure remaining in office to bring that 
experience and depth of understanding to matters brought 
before the Board.

Given the breadth of Downer’s service offerings across a range 
of markets, the Board seeks to ensure that it maintains an 
appropriate range of technical skills across engineering, geology, 
construction and scientific disciplines as well as professional 
services when considering the appointment of a new Director. 
The Board identified that the review of major tender bids and the 
successful delivery of major projects in an increasingly complex 
commercial environment required additional Directors with 
strong financial acumen. It is for this reason that in undertaking 
the selection process for its most recently appointed Director, 
the Board selected a candidate with financial and accounting 
qualifications and experience as a CFO and CEO of an ASX 
listed company.

Annual Report 2018  131

The chart below illustrates the balance achieved with the 
current Board composition. The Company recognises the value 
of diversity which has been a component of the appointment 
process over the past few years.

Professional qualifications

From time to time, Downer engages external specialists to assist 
with the selection process as necessary, and the Chairman, 
Board and Group CEO meet with candidates as part of the 
appointment process.

Professional qualifications

Business and economics

Technical*

Humanities

Legal

0.0

1.0

2.0

3.0

4.0

5.0

*Comprises construction, engineering, metallurgy and science.

Industry experience

Professional Services*

Resources

Transport and infrastructure

Nominations for re-election of Directors are reviewed by the 
Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee and 
Directors are re-elected in accordance with the Downer 
Constitution and the ASX Listing Rules.

As part of its commitment to leading corporate governance 
practice, the Board undertakes improvement programs, including 
externally facilitated periodic reviews of its performance and 
that of its Committees and Directors. The last review was 
completed during FY16.

The Company has formal induction procedures for both 
Directors and senior executives. These induction procedures 
have been developed to enable new Directors and senior 
executives to gain an understanding of:
 – Downer’s financial position, strategies, operations and risk 

management policies;

 – The respective rights, duties and responsibilities and roles of 

the Board and senior executives; and

0.0

1.0

2.0

3.0

4.0

5.0

 – Downer’s culture and values.

Directors are given an induction briefing by the Company 
Secretary and an induction pack containing information about 
Downer and its business, Board and Committee charters and 
Downer Group policies. New Directors also meet with key senior 
executives to gain an insight into the Company’s business 
operations and the Downer Group structure.

Directors are encouraged to continually build on their exposure 
to the Company’s business and a formal program of Director 
site visits has been in place since 2009. Directors are also 
encouraged to attend appropriate training and professional 
development courses to update and enhance their skills 
and knowledge and the Company Secretary regularly 
organises governance and other continuing education 
sessions for the Board.

The Board is provided with the information it needs to discharge 
its responsibilities effectively. The Directors also have access to the 
Company Secretary for all Board and governance-related issues 
and the appointment and removal of the Company Secretary is 
determined by the Board. The Company Secretary is accountable 
to the Board, through the Chair, on all governance matters.

*Includes banking, finance and legal.

Tenure

9+

6–9

3–6

0–3

0.0

1.0

2.0

3.0

Gender diversity

Gender diversity

3

4

Male

Female

132  Downer EDI Limited

Corporate Governance – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Principle 3: Promote ethical and 
responsible decision-making

Downer’s Purpose, Promise and Pillars define the way 
Downer manages its business and are the foundations 
that support Downer’s culture. An overview of the Purpose, 
Promise and Pillars can be found on the Downer website at 
www. downergroup.com. 
Downer strives to attain the highest standards of behaviour and 
business ethics when engaging in corporate activity. The Downer 
Standards of Business Conduct sets the ethical tone 
and standards of the Company and deals with matters such as:
 – Compliance with the letter and the spirit of the law;
 – Workplace behaviour;
 – Prohibition against bribery and corruption;
 – Protection of confidential information;
 – Engaging with stakeholders;
 – Workplace safety;
 – Diversity and inclusiveness;
 – Sustainability; and
 – Conflicts of interest.

Downer has a formal whistleblower policy and procedures 
for reporting and investigating breaches of the Standards of 
Business Conduct. This includes the Our Voice service, an 
external and independent reporting service which enables 
employees to anonymously report potential breaches of the 
Standards of Business Conduct, including misconduct or other 
unethical behaviour. Reports received through Our Voice are 
investigated where appropriate, with the Company Secretary 
overseeing the completion of any remedial action.

The Standards of Business Conduct applies to all officers 
and employees and is available on the Downer website at  
www. downergroup.com.

Downer endorses leading governance practices and has in 
place policies setting out the Company’s approach to various 
matters, including:
 – Securities trading (stipulating ‘closed periods’ for designated 
employees and a formal process which employees must 
adhere to when dealing in securities);

 – The Company’s disclosure obligations (including 

continuous disclosure);

 – Communicating with shareholders and the general 

investment community; and

 – Privacy.

Downer has an Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy which expands 
upon the prohibition against bribery and corruption currently 
contained in the Standards of Business Conduct, and which 
addresses key issues such as working with government, political 
donations, human rights, conducting business internationally 
and gifts and benefits. As Downer has operations in foreign 
jurisdictions, Downer employees are confronted by the challenges 
of doing business in environments where bribery and corruption 
are real risks. However, regardless of the country or culture within 
which its people work, Downer is committed to compliance with 
the law, as well as maintaining its reputation for ethical practice.

These policies are available on the Downer website at  
www. downergroup.com.

Principle 4: Safeguard integrity 
in financial reporting

The Company has in place a structure of review and 
authorisation which independently verifies and safeguards 
the integrity of its financial reporting.

The Audit and Risk Committee assists the Board to fulfil 
its responsibilities relating to:
 – The quality and integrity of the accounting, auditing 

and reporting practices of the Company with a particular 
focus on the qualitative aspects of financial reporting 
to shareholders;

 – The Company’s risk profile and risk policies; and
 – The effectiveness of the Company’s system of internal 

control and framework for risk management.

The Audit and Risk Committee is structured so that it:
 – Consists of only Non-executive Directors;
 – Consists of a majority of independent Directors;
 – Is chaired by an independent Chairman 

(who is not the Chairman of the Board); and

 – Has at least three members.

The Audit and Risk Committee comprises only independent 
Directors, includes members who are financially literate and 
has at least one member who has relevant qualifications 
and experience.

The Audit and Risk Committee Charter sets out the Audit and 
Risk Committee’s role and responsibilities, composition, structure 
and membership requirements and the procedures for inviting 
non-committee members to attend meetings.

The Board receives assurances from the Group CEO and the 
Group CFO that the declarations provided to it in relation to the 
annual and half-year financial statements, in accordance with 
sections 295A and 303(4) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) 
are founded on a sound system of risk management and internal 
control and that the system is operating effectively in all material 
respects in relation to financial reporting risks.

Annual Report 2018  133

Principle 7: Recognise and manage risk

To mitigate the risks that arise through its activities, Downer has 
various risk management policies and procedures in place that 
cover (among other matters) interest rate management, foreign 
exchange risk management, credit risk management, tendering 
and contracting risk and project management.

Downer has controls at the Board, executive and business unit 
levels that are designed to safeguard Downer’s interests and 
ensure the integrity of reporting (including accounting, financial 
reporting, environment and workplace health and safety policies 
and procedures). These controls are designed to ensure that 
Downer complies with legal and regulatory requirements, 
as well as community standards.

Downer has a Risk Management Framework in place to 
enable business risks to be identified, evaluated and managed. 
The Board ratifies Downer’s approach to managing risk and 
oversees Downer’s Risk Management Framework, including 
the Group risk profile and the effectiveness of the systems 
being implemented to manage risk. The last comprehensive 
review of the Risk Management Framework was completed in 
2016. However, the Board reviews the Group risk profile twice 
each year, undertakes a facilitated risk workshop annually, 
and considers other risk matters, such as business resilience, 
tender review processes, risk appetite, and specific risk areas, 
on a regular basis, as well as regular reports from senior 
management, the internal audit team, and the external auditor.

Downer’s annual Sustainability Report provides a detailed overview 
of Downer’s approach to managing its environmental sustainability 
and social sustainability risks. The 2017 Sustainability Report is 
available on the Downer website at www. downergroup.com.

The Company’s internal audit function objectively evaluates and 
reports on the existence, design and operating effectiveness of 
internal controls. Downer’s internal audit team is independent 
of the external auditor and reports to the Audit and 
Risk Committee.

Downer’s Audit and Risk Committee assists the Board in 
its oversight of Downer’s risk profile and risk policies, the 
effectiveness of the systems of internal control and Risk 
Management Framework and Downer’s compliance with 
applicable legal and regulatory obligations. The Audit and 
Risk Committee Charter is available on the Downer website 
at www. downergroup.com.

Management reports regularly to the Audit and Risk Committee 
on the effectiveness of Downer’s management of its material 
business risks and on the progress of mitigation treatments.

Downer’s external auditor attends the Company’s AGMs and is 
available to answer any questions which shareholders may have 
about the conduct of the external audit for the relevant financial 
year and the preparation and content of the Audit Report.

Information regarding the number of times the Audit and Risk 
Committee convened in FY18, together with the individual 
attendances of members at the meetings, is set out in the 
Directors’ Report on page 19.

The Audit and Risk Committee Charter is available on the 
Downer website at www. downergroup.com.

Principle 5: Make timely and 
balanced disclosure

The Company’s Disclosure Policy sets out processes which 
assist the Company to ensure that all investors have equal and 
timely access to material information about the Company and 
that Company announcements are factual and presented in 
a clear and balanced way. A copy of the Disclosure Policy is 
available on the Downer website at www. downergroup.com.

The Disclosure Policy also sets out the procedures for identifying 
and disclosing material and market-sensitive information in 
accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and the 
ASX Listing Rules.

Downer’s Disclosure Committee consists of two independent, 
Non-executive Directors (one of which is the Chairman of the 
Board) and the Group CEO. The Disclosure Committee oversees 
disclosure of information by the Company to the market and the 
general investment community.

Principle 6: Respect the rights of shareholders

Downer empowers its shareholders by:
 – Communicating effectively, openly and honestly 

with shareholders;

 – Giving shareholders ready access to balanced and 
understandable information about the Company 
and its governance; and

 – Making it easy for shareholders to participate 

in general meetings.

The Downer Communication Policy sets out the Company’s 
approach to communicating with shareholders and is available 
on the Downer website at www. downergroup.com.

The Company publishes corporate information on its 
website (www. downergroup.com), including Annual and Half 
Year Reports, ASX announcements, investor updates and 
media releases.

Downer encourages shareholder participation at AGMs through 
its use of electronic communication, including by making notices 
of meetings available on its website and audio casting of general 
meetings and significant Group presentations.

The Directors and key members of management attend the 
Company’s AGMs and are available to answer questions.

134  Downer EDI Limited

Corporate Governance – continuedfor the year ended 30 June 2018Executive Directors and senior executives are prohibited from 
entering into transactions in associated products which limit the 
economic risk of participating in unvested entitlements under 
any of the Company’s equity-based remuneration schemes.

Further details about the remuneration of Executive Directors 
and senior executives are set out in the Remuneration Report 
at page 21 and details of Downer shares beneficially owned by 
Directors are provided in the Directors’ Report at page 4.

Principle 8: Remunerate fairly and responsibly

The Board has established a Remuneration Committee and has 
adopted the Remuneration Committee Charter which sets out its 
role and responsibilities, composition, structure and membership 
requirements and the procedures for inviting non-committee 
members to attend meetings.

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for reviewing and 
making recommendations to the Board about:
 – Executive remuneration and incentive policies;
 – The remuneration, recruitment, retention, performance 

measurement and termination policies and procedures for 
all senior executives reporting directly to the Group CEO;

 – Executive and equity-based incentive plans; and
 – Superannuation arrangements and retirement payments.

Remuneration of the Group CEO, executive directors and 
non-executive directors forms part of the responsibilities 
of the Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee.

Downer’s remuneration policy is designed to motivate senior 
executives to pursue the long-term growth and success of 
the Company and prescribes a relationship between the 
performance and remuneration of senior executives.

The Remuneration Committee is structured so that it:
 – Consists of a majority of independent Directors;
 – Is chaired by an independent Director; and
 – Has at least three members.

The Executive Director is not a member of the 
Remuneration Committee.

The maximum aggregate fee approved by shareholders that can 
be paid to Non-executive Directors is $2.0 million per annum. 
This cap was approved by shareholders on 30 October 2008. 
Further details about remuneration paid to Non-executive 
Directors are set out in the Remuneration Report at page 21.

Retirement benefits are not paid to Non-executive Directors.

Non-executive Directors do not participate in any equity 
incentive schemes.

The remuneration structure for Executive Directors and 
senior executives is designed to achieve a balance between 
fixed and variable remuneration taking into account the 
performance of the individual and the performance of the 
Company. Executive Directors receive payment of equity-based 
remuneration as short and long-term incentives.

Annual Report 2018  135

Information for Investors 
for the year ended 30 June 2018

Downer shareholders

Share registry

Downer had 18,599 ordinary shareholders as at 30 June 2018.

The largest shareholder, HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) 
Limited, holds 29.49% of the 594,702,512 fully paid ordinary 
shares issued at that date. Downer has 16,883 shareholders 
with registered addresses in Australia.

Securities exchange listing

Downer is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) 
under the “Downer EDI” market call code 3965, with ASX code 
DOW, and is an overseas listed issuer on the New Zealand 
Exchange with the ticker code DOW NZ.

Company information

The Company’s website www. downergroup.com offers 
comprehensive information about Downer and its services. 
The site also contains news releases and announcements to 
the ASX and NZX, financial presentations, Annual Reports, 
Half Year Reports and company newsletters. Downer printed 
communications for shareholders include the Annual Report 
which is available on request.

Dividends

Dividends are determined by the Board having regard to a range 
of circumstances within the business operations of Downer 
including operating profit and capital requirements. The level 
of franking on dividends is dependent on the level of taxes paid 
to the Australian Taxation Office by Downer and its incorporated 
joint ventures.

International shareholders can use Computershare’s Global 
Payments System to receive dividend payments in the currency 
of their choice at a nominal cost to the shareholder.

Dividend reinvestment plan

Downer’s Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP) is a mechanism 
to allow shareholders to increase their shareholding in the 
Company without the usual costs associated with share 
acquisitions, such as brokerage. Details of the DRP are available 
from the Company’s website or the Easy Update website at 
www. computershare.com.au/easyupdate/dow.

Shareholders and investors seeking information about Downer 
shareholdings or dividends should contact the Company’s share  
registry, Computershare Investor Services Pty Ltd (Computershare):

Level 5 
115 Grenfell Street 
Adelaide SA 5000

GPO Box 1903 
Adelaide SA 5001

Tel: 1300 556 161 (within Australia) 
+61 3 9415 4000 (outside Australia)

Fax: 1300 534 987 (within Australia) 
+61 3 9473 2408 (outside Australia)

www. computershare.com

Shareholders must give their holder number (SRN/HIN) when 
making inquiries. This number is recorded on issuer sponsored 
and CHESS statements.

Updating your shareholder details

Shareholders can update their details (including bank accounts, 
DRP elections, tax file numbers and email addresses) online at 
www. computershare.com.au/easyupdate/dow.

Shareholders will require their holder number (SRN/HIN) and 
postcode to access this site.

Tax file number information

Providing your tax file number to Downer is not compulsory. 
However, for shareholders who have not supplied their tax file 
number, Downer is required to deduct tax at the top marginal 
rate plus Medicare levy from unfranked dividends paid to 
investors residing in Australia. For more information please 
contact Computershare.

Lost issuer sponsored statement

You are advised to contact Computershare immediately, 
in writing, if your issuer sponsored statement has been 
lost or stolen.

136  Downer EDI Limited

Annual Report mailing list

Shareholders must elect to receive a Downer Annual Report 
by writing to Computershare Investor Services Pty Ltd at the 
address provided. Alternatively shareholders may choose to 
receive this publication electronically.

Change of address

So that we can keep you informed, and protect your interests in 
Downer, it is important that you inform Computershare of any 
change of your registered address.

Registered office and principal 
administration office

Downer EDI Limited 
Level 2, Triniti III 
Triniti Business Campus 
39 Delhi Road 
North Ryde NSW 2113

Tel: +61 2 9468 9700 
Fax: +61 2 9813 8915

Auditor

KPMG 
International Towers Sydney 3 
300 Barangaroo Avenue 
Sydney NSW 2000 

Australian securities exchange information as at 30 June 2018

Number of holders of equity securities:

Ordinary share capital
594,702,512 fully paid listed ordinary shares were held by 18,599 shareholders. All issued ordinary shares carry one vote per share.

Substantial shareholders
The following shareholders have notified that they are substantial shareholders of Downer as at 30 June 2018.

Shareholders

AustralianSuper Pty Ltd
FIL Limited
Ausbil Investment Management Limited

Ordinary 
shares held

42,508,165
37,184,187
29,840,376

% of issued 
shares

7.15
6.25
5.02

Distribution of holders of quoted equity securities

Shareholder distribution of quoted equity securities as at 30 June 2018 is as follows.

Range of holdings
1 – 1,000
1,001 – 5,000
5,001 – 10,000
10,001 – 100,000
100,001 and over
Total
Holding less than a marketable parcel of shares

Number of 
shareholders
10,368
6,360
1,118
690
63
18,599
832

Shareholders %
55.75
34.20
6.01
3.71
0.34

Ordinary shares 
held
4,463,959
14,644,650
8,029,373
14,817,193
552,747,337
594,702,512

Shares
%
0.75
2.46
1.35
2.49
92.95
100.00

Annual Report 2018  137

Information for Investors – continued
for the year ended 30 June 2018

Twenty largest shareholders

Downer’s 20 largest shareholders of ordinary fully paid shares as at 30 June 2018 are as follows.

Shareholders
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 
Chase Manhattan Nominees Limited 
Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited
National Nominees Limited 
BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Ltd 
BNP Paribas Noms Pty Ltd 
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited  
UBS Nominees Pty Ltd
CPU Share Plans Pty Limited 
Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 
Argo Investments Ltd
AMP Life Ltd
Sandhurst Trustees Ltd 
Equity Trustees Limited 
Bond Street Custodians Limited
CS Third Nominees Pty Limited 
EQT Wealth Services Limited 
Mr Barry Sydney Patterson + Mrs Glenice Margaret Patterson 
BNP Paribus Noms (NZ) Ltd 
eCapital Nominees Pty Limited
Total for top 20 shareholders

Shares held
175,370,677
157,329,290
95,270,613
50,006,980
15,126,011
15,047,757
6,386,940
5,944,471
5,038,771
4,674,121
2,969,037
2,033,448
1,894,330
1,403,475
1,312,700
1,193,885
954,615
891,642
889,387
835,700
544,573,850 

% of issued shares
 29.49
 26.46
 16.02
8.41
2.54
2.53
1.07
1.00
0.85
0.79
0.50
0.34
0.32
0.24
0.22
0.20
0.16
0.15
0.15
0.14
91.58

138  Downer EDI Limited

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Annual Report 2018  139

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This page has been intentionally left blank.DOWNER EDI LIMITED

Level 2, Triniti III 
Triniti Business Campus 
39 Delhi Road 
North Ryde NSW 2113 
Australia

T +61 2 9468 9700 
F +61 2 9813 8915

ABN 97 003 872 848

Sovereign A2 Silk is proudly made 
FSC® certified by Hankuk paper 
who also carry the ISO 14001 EMS 
accreditation and it’s manufactured 
with elemental chlorine free pulps.

www.downergroup.com

SCHOOLHOSPITALHOTELLAUNDRYCLEANOGAS CO