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Era Group Inc

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FY2014 Annual Report · Era Group Inc
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2

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1

4

Surrounding environment remained 
protected, as confirmed by the 
Supervising Scientist

Ranger 3 Deeps Exploration 
Decline completed

Produced 1,165 tonnes  
of uranium oxide

Strong cash position 

maintained

Reduction in 

employee numbers 

with end of Pit 3 

initial backfill

Implemented process 

safety improvement 

action plan

Powering tomorrowANNUAL REPORT 2014   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2014

2014 – Year in Review

Surrounding 
environment 
remains protected, 
as confirmed by the 
Supervising Scientist, 
Commonwealth 
Department of the 
Environment

Ranger 3 Deeps 
Exploration Decline 
project completed 
on schedule and on 
budget

Refer to page 14 for 
further detail

Refer to page 17 for 
further detail

Major activities of 
the $57 million 
Prefeasibility Study 
into underground 
mining substantially 
completed

Draft Environment 
Impact Statement 
for proposed 
underground mining 
operation submitted 
to regulators

Brine Concentrator 
processed 844 
megalitres of water 
in first full year of 
operations

Processing 
operations resumed 
following recovery 
from Leach Tank 1 
failure. No impact 
on the surrounding 
environment

Refer to page 14 for 
further detail

More than $23 
million in additional 
cost savings in 2014 
as part of ERA’s 
ongoing Business 
Review

Refer to page 18 for 
further detail

Refer to page 19 for 
further detail

Refer to page 14 for 
further detail

Refer to page 13 for 
further detail

Produced 1,165 
tonnes and sold 
3,148 tonnes of 
uranium oxide

Refer to page 14 for 
further detail

Ahead of schedule 
on the rehabilitation 
of Pit 3, with 33.7 
million tonnes 
backfilled, and 
brine injection 
infrastructure 
installed

69 female 
employees (18 per 
cent of employees) 
and 47 Indigenous 
employees (12 per 
cent of employees)

Net loss after tax 
– $188 million. 
$293 million in 
cash on hand

Refer to page 48 for 
further detail

Refer to page 12 for 
further detail

Capping in Pit 1 
rehabilitation 
nearing completion

Revegetation of 
Jabiluka pond 
rehabilitation site 
completed with 
additional 4,679 
native tubestock 
planted

Refer to page 15 for 
further detail

Refer to page 15 for 
further detail

Refer to page 15 for 
further detail

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

1

THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2014

Sales Revenue ($M)

Drummed Production Tonnes (t)

.

4
1
5
6

.

3
2
7
5

.

6
9
6
3

.

1
6
5
3

.

2
9
7
3

3
7
9
3

,

0
1
7
3

,

0
6
9
2

,

1
4
6
2

,

5
6
1
1

,

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Net Profit After Tax ($M)

Indigenous Employees (FTE’s)

9
9

3
0
1

7
4

1
8

9
7

6
.
3
5
1
-

8
.
8
1
2
-

8
.
5
3
1
-

8
.
7
8
1
-

7
4

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Operating Cashflow ($M)

All Injury Frequency Rate (per 200,000 hrs worked)

9
.
4
5

1
.
2
4

7
2
.
1

1
9
.
0

3
.
3
-

9
.
7
1
-

0
.
4
5
-

3
7
.
0

7
5
.
0

2
5
.
0

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

2

SUBSECTION

Navigate our Annual Report to see 
how we’re Powering Tomorrow.

Throughout the report these icons are used to highlight key areas of our activity

 Safety
 Environment
 Communities and Government
 People
 Operations
 Business performance

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014
ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

3

CONTENTS

Contents

2014 Annual Report

2014 – Year in Review .......................................................................... Inside front cover

Company Profile ........................................................................................................... 5

Chairman’s Report ........................................................................................................ 6

Chief Executive’s Report ............................................................................................... 8

2015 Objectives .......................................................................................................... 10

Operating and Financial Review .................................................................................. 12

Financial Performance ........................................................................................... 12

Operations ............................................................................................................ 14

Business Strategy .................................................................................................. 16

Future supply .............................................................................................................. 22

Ranger Ore Reserves ............................................................................................. 23

Markets and customers ............................................................................................... 26

Health and safety........................................................................................................ 30

Radiation monitoring .................................................................................................. 32

Regulatory framework ................................................................................................ 36

Sustainable Development Report

Overview .................................................................................................................... 40

Environment ............................................................................................................... 41

Land ........................................................................................................................... 45

Employment ............................................................................................................... 48

Community ................................................................................................................. 51

Financial Report............................................................................................. 56

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

4

COMPANY PROFILE

ERA is demonstrating strong environmental 
management practices as it continues to make 
progress on the rehabilitation of the exhausted 
Pit 1 and Pit 3 open cut mines.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

5

COMPANY PROFILE

Company Profile

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd (ERA) operates the 
Ranger uranium mine in the Northern Territory of 
Australia. As Australia’s longest continually operating 
uranium producer, ERA has been reliably supplying 
customers in Asia, Europe and North America for 
more than three decades.

ERA sells its product to international 
power utilities under strict 
international and Australian 
Government safeguards and non-
proliferation conditions to ensure 
that Australian uranium is only used 
for peaceful purposes.

Ranger is one of only three mines 
in the world to have produced 
in excess of 110,000 tonnes of 
uranium oxide (U3O8).

ERA is currently processing 
stockpiled ore following the 
completion of open cut mining 
in 2012 and has been conducting 
underground exploration of the 
Ranger 3 Deeps mineral resource as 
it prepares for a potential transition 
to underground mining.

ERA is demonstrating strong 
environmental management 
practices as it continues to make 
progress on the rehabilitation of 
the exhausted Pit 1 and Pit 3 open 
cut mines.

Located eight kilometres east of 
Jabiru and 260 kilometres east of 
Darwin, in Australia’s Northern 
Territory, the Ranger mine lies 
within the 79 square kilometre 
Ranger Project Area. In addition, 
ERA holds the world-class Jabiluka 
Mineral Lease. In accordance with 
the Jabiluka Long Term Care and 
Maintenance Agreement, Jabiluka 
will not be developed by ERA 
without the approval of the Mirarr 
Traditional Owners.

The Ranger Project Area and 
the Jabiluka Mineral Lease are 
located on Aboriginal land and are 
surrounded by, but separate from, 
the World Heritage-listed Kakadu 
National Park.

ERA’s uranium mining activities are 
regulated through Commonwealth 
and Northern Territory legislation. 
Additional operating agreements 
have been entered into by the 
Northern Land Council on behalf 
of the Traditional Owners under 
the Commonwealth Aboriginal 
Land Rights (Northern Territory) 
Act 1976.

Further agreements covering the 
Ranger Project Area were reached 
in January 2013 by the Gundjeihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation, on behalf 
of the Mirarr Traditional Owners, 
the Northern Land Council, 
ERA and the Commonwealth 
Government.

The Company’s shares are publicly 
held and traded on the Australian 
Securities Exchange, with Rio Tinto, 
a diversified resources group, 
holding 68.4 per cent of ERA shares.

Acknowledgement
ERA acknowledges the Mirarr 
people, Traditional Owners of the 
land on which ERA operates.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

6

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

Chairman’s Report

In last year’s annual report, I outlined the key areas 
of strategic focus for the Company during 2014. 
These included recovering momentum and regaining 
community and stakeholder confidence following the 
leach tank failure and paving the way for a future as 
an underground miner with a significantly smaller 
environmental footprint that can contribute to the 
global energy market and local economy.

PETER MCMAHON
CHAIRMAN

I can report that during 2014 the 
Company’s key developments reflected 
the strategic focus set by the Board.

The Supervising Scientist, 
Commonwealth Department of the 
Environment, confirmed there was no 
detrimental impact to the surrounding 
environment or to the Kakadu 
National Park as a result of the leach 
tank failure. Although our protective 
spill containment systems worked as 
designed, we do recognise that the 
failure caused concern among our 
stakeholders and the community.

Both the Board and management 
understand the importance of 
ensuring the safety and environmental 
performance of the Ranger mine and 
the need to maintain stakeholder 
confidence in the operations at Ranger. 

Following the leach tank failure, 
the Company worked closely and 
openly with stakeholders on detailed 
investigations and reviews into the 
cause of the failure and on ensuring 
the integrity of other key assets. 
Most importantly, ERA management 
introduced permanent changes to 
process safety to help prevent any 
recurrence.

Momentum was recovered during 
the year with Ranger achieving a safe 
and successful restart of processing 
operations. Ahead of receiving 
regulatory approvals, the Board 
agreed a scope of work in April to 
be undertaken to bring the plant to 
readiness for restart. By year end 2014 
Ranger production was within our 
market guidance.

The completion of the Ranger 3 Deeps 
Exploration Decline and the associated 
underground exploration drilling 
program has helped pave the way to a 
potential underground mine.

In 2011 the Board approved the 
$57 million Prefeasibility Study into 
the Ranger 3 Deeps project. The 
major activities contributing to the 
Prefeasibility Study were substantially 
completed in 2014.

Following the public comment 
period on the Ranger 3 Deeps draft 
Environmental Impact Statement, a 
supplementary Environmental Impact 
Statement will be lodged to allow for 
a government determination on the 
project later in 2015.

The Company is committed to 
meeting its rehabilitation obligations. 
Our credentials in this regard were 
demonstrated in 2014 with substantial 
progress in major rehabilitation projects. 

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

7

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

ERA continues to make appropriate 
provision for the completion of 
rehabilitation. In addition, we 
maintain with the Commonwealth 
Government the Ranger 
Rehabilitation Trust Fund to provide 
security against the estimated 
costs of closing and rehabilitating 
the mine immediately. This is 
independently assessed and the 
Trust is made up of cash and bank 
guarantees.

We have also continued to work 
with the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation, representing the 
Mirarr Traditional Owners. 
In particular the Relationship 
Committee, established under 
the Mining Agreement, met 
regularly in 2014 and is helping 
promote information sharing and 
collaboration. The committee 
is important in providing an 
opportunity to discuss issues of 
importance to the relationship, 
overseeing compliance with the 
Mining Agreement and allowing 
collaboration on issues such as 
the future of Jabiru, local housing 
needs, water management and 
local employment.

We are at a critical juncture in 
ERA’s 30 year history and it comes 
at a time when global concern 
about climate change continues to 
reinforce the key role to be played by 
nuclear power in generating reliable, 
low emissions base load power.

This discussion is taking place 
in Australia and overseas, and is 
reflected in new commitments to 
nuclear energy, ranging from the 
approval for restart of Japanese 
reactors to China’s nuclear 
expansion program. The majority of 
the growth in nuclear generation 
capacity is expected to come from 
Asia, including India.

While in the short term the market 
will remain characterised by 
oversupply and softer demand, 
which contribute to weakness  
in spot prices, the spot price  
recovery from lows of US$28.23 
per pound in mid-2014 to a year-
end price of US$35.50 per pound 
is a positive trend. It is forecast 
to strengthen in the medium to 
long term.

Japan’s decision to give final 
approval for the restart of two 
reactors for Kyushu Electric Power 
Co. in November helped mark a 
shift in market sentiment. This was 
supported by China’s commitment 
to cap its carbon emissions by 2030 
and increase the share of non-fossil 
fuels in its energy production. 
It has also been reinforced by 
commentary on the importance of 
nuclear power in addressing climate 
change. For example, in December 
75 leading conservation scientists 
from around the world argued in 
an open letter to environmentalists 
that nuclear power generation 
needed to be part of the future 
global energy mix to reduce 
greenhouse gas emissions and 
protect biodiversity.

World-wide there are 
currently 436 operating 
reactors, with 71 under 
construction, and a further 
174 planned.

In this context Ranger 3 Deeps is an 
important part of positioning the 
Company to take advantage of the 
projected recovery in uranium prices 
and to support the demand for 
low emissions power generation. 
ERA remains focused on managing 
its operations responsibly and 
meeting its commitments under the 
current Mining Agreement, while 
continuing to progress the Ranger 
3 Deeps underground mine project. 
In closing I would like to express  
my appreciation to all the ERA  
team for their efforts during a 
demanding year.

Peter McMahon  
Chairman

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

8

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT

Chief Executive’s Report

ERA made a strong return to full operations in 2014 
after receiving all regulatory and stakeholder approvals 
in June for a progressive restart of processing activities 
following the failure of Leach Tank 1 in December 2013.

ANDREA SUTTON
CHIEF EXECUTIVE

There has been a necessary reduction 
in workforce size associated with 
the completion of open cut mining 
operations and the fact that we are 
processing stockpiled, lower grade ore.

ERA’s Ranger 3 Deeps underground 
mine project is progressing, with a 
draft Environmental Impact Statement 
submitted to the Northern Territory 
and Commonwealth governments 
in October.

The draft Environmental Impact 
Statement was open for public 
comment for 10 weeks. Feedback will 
be incorporated into a supplementary 
Environmental Impact Statement. 
The major activities contributing to 
the Prefeasibility Study into Ranger 3 
Deeps were substantially completed 
by year end. The Prefeasibility Study 
assesses the technical, operational, 
economic, environmental and social 
impacts of underground mining. An 
independent Social Impact Assessment 
which formed part of the draft 
Environmental Impact Statement found 
that proceeding with the underground 
mine would deliver significant and 
sustainable benefits to the local 
community.

2014 also saw the completion of the 
underground Exploration Decline and 
associated infrastructure. Completion 
of the underground exploration drilling 
program and a cross-cut into the main 
ore body to obtain further data to 
optimise the underground mine design 
were also achieved during the year.  

Throughout a safe recovery operation, 
ERA also delivered on key strategic 
projects, continued structural changes 
towards a leaner and more agile 
business and worked to rebuild and 
strengthen relations with our key 
stakeholders.

During the year ERA milled 1.3 million 
tonnes of stockpiled ore and produced 
1,165 tonnes of uranium oxide, secured 
sales of drummed uranium of $379 
million and reported a net loss after tax 
of $188 million.

The business also achieved savings of 
more than $23 million and exceeded 
the $150 million target set for the 
end of 2014. This continues to be a 
focus for the business and further 
initiatives are underway. Delivery of 
cash generation initiatives and cost 
reductions is a key part of structural 
and operational changes necessary 
to create a leaner and more agile 
organisation for the transition to 
underground mining. 

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

9

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT

The drilling results show high grade 
intersections and as announced on 
17 September 2014, an increase 
in the resource model estimate 
to 34,761 tonnes of uranium 
oxide. A total of 47,000 metres 
of underground exploration 
drilling was completed. Both 
the Exploration Decline and the 
exploration drilling occurred on 
time and within budget.

A key focus of activities for ERA in 
the first half of 2014 was recovery 
from the failure of Leach Tank 1 on 
7 December 2013.

A taskforce was established 
by the Commonwealth and 
Northern Territory governments to 
provide a coordinated regulatory 
response to the recovery works 
and investigations. The taskforce 
included representatives from the 
Commonwealth Department of 
Industry (now the Department 
of Industry and Science), the 
Northern Territory Department of 
Mines and Energy, NT Worksafe, 
the Supervising Scientist, 
Commonwealth Department of 
the Environment, the Gundjeihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation and the 
Northern Land Council.

Restart was approved by regulators 
on 5 June 2014 following 
independent inspection and 
certification of critical assets as 
being fit for service.

A key outcome of the investigations 
and recovery works was the 
development of the ERA Process 
Safety Improvement Action Plan, 
which will be reviewed on a quarterly 
basis by the Commonwealth and 
Northern Territory governments.  
The plan has introduced 
improvements to ERA’s Process 
Safety systems and imposed 
tighter governance of critical asset 
surveillance and maintenance 
regimes.

ERA’s safety performance in 2014 
showed a decline compared with 
2013. The All Injury Frequency Rate 
(AIFR) was 1.27 (2013: 0.91). There 
were eight lost time injuries and one 
medical treatment case. In response 
we have undertaken a range of 
measures including increased 
safety training and prestart safety 
planning for maintenance crews. 
We also developed 17 critical 
control management plans for 
identified critical risks.

ERA’s progressive rehabilitation 
program reached significant 
milestones in 2014. In effect, the 
2014/15 wet season represents 
“peak storage” for the Tailings 
Storage Facility and marks a key 
turning point for ERA as tailings 
are progressively transferred into 
Pit 3 following the initial backfilling 
and installation of drainage in the 
Pit and as the Brine Concentrator 
reduces the volume of process 
water in the Tailings Storage Facility.

In Pit 1, ERA completed the pre-
load rock capping to compress the 
tailings. A clay barrier is also being 
placed over the pre-load layer to 
allow the Pit 1 rainwater catchment 
to be formally reclassified from 
process water to pond water, 
significantly reducing inputs to the 
Tailings Storage Facility. From 2017 
the final rock backfill will be placed 
ahead of shaping the final landform 
and preparing for revegetation.

In addition, ERA continued to 
work with Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation and the Mirarr 
Traditional Owners on a range of 
issues, including the rehabilitation 
and revegetation of the site of the 
former Interim Water Management 
Pond at Jabiluka.

Working and collaborating with 
the Mirarr Traditional Owners and 
other community stakeholders 
continues to be a central focus of 
our business.

ERA and the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation are represented on 
and contribute to the new Kakadu 
West Arnhem Social Trust, which 
administers funding for cultural, 
educational and other social 
programs in the region.

ERA and the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation also continue to 
engage through a number of 
formal structures that support 
regular meetings and sharing of 
information.

More broadly in the community, 
ERA continued support for local 
festivals, engaged with local schools 
and students through the Education 
Partnership with the West Arnhem 
College which entered its fifth year, 
funded the fifth and final year of 
the $28,000 Chaloupka Foundation 
Fellowship for Aboriginal rock art 
and raised funds for CareFlight 
through the Jabiru Triathlon.

2014 has been a challenging and 
rewarding year, in which we have 
successfully and safely achieved 
full mill throughput, identified 
and acted on opportunities for 
improvement, demonstrated 
industry leading expertise in 
rehabilitation, and readied the 
organisation for the potential 
transition to underground mining.

These achievements are testament 
to the quality, dedication and 
expertise of our people and the 
continued support of our key 
stakeholders. I look forward to 
working with the ERA team again 
in 2015.

Andrea Sutton  
Chief Executive

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

10
10

2015 OBJECTIVES

2015 Objectives

The Company’s objective is to prepare for a future as an underground miner with a significantly smaller 
environmental footprint, generating shareholder value and contributing to the local economy.

AREA 

OBJECTIVES

Health, 
Safety and 
Environment

Implement the recommendations of the Process Safety Improvement Action Plan

Committed to the goal of zero harm
• 
•  Focus on strong safety leadership with extensive employee and contractor engagement
•  Demonstrate a sound understanding of critical risk profiles within the organisation and monitor 

using Critical Control Management Plans

•  Fully integrate underground health and safety standards into existing management system in 

preparation for the potential transition to Ranger 3 Deeps mining operation

•  Continue to protect the surrounding environment and ensure ERA’s operations do not impact 
on the values of the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park through risk assessment and 
effective environmental management plans

Financial

Maximise cash generation and shareholder value
•  Optimise the business to adapt to lower production levels and market conditions
•  Maximise value from potential development options, including Ranger 3 Deeps
•  Continue to identify further opportunities for operational efficiencies and cost savings
•  Work with suppliers to improve delivery of goods and services in a cost effective way

Ranger 3 
Deeps

Evaluate and identify the optimal development pathway for Ranger 3 Deeps
•  Submit supplementary Environmental Impact Statement
•  Engage and work collaboratively with the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation and other key 

stakeholders to gain support for the project

•  Secure statutory approvals for the project
•  Execution of the optimal development option for Ranger 3 Deeps commences

Operations

Economically produce uranium from stockpiled ore while integrating rehabilitation activities
•  Maximise production of uranium oxide
•  Optimise Brine Concentrator operations for a consistent production rate of 1.8 gigalitres of clean 

water per annum

Rehabilitation

Continue progressive rehabilitation of the Ranger Project Area
•  Successfully convert Pit 1 into a pond water catchment
•  Commission Pit 3 tailings and brine management infrastructure and commence transfer of 

dredged tailings from the Tailings Storage Facility to Pit 3

•  Progress definition of closure criteria through the closure criteria working group

Communities 
and 
Government

Develop a shared understanding and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders
•  Actively engage, through effective dialogue and information sharing, with the Gundjeihmi 

Aboriginal Corporation on behalf of the Mirarr Traditional Owners, to achieve mutually beneficial 
outcomes for the business and Traditional Owners

People

•  Secure appropriate approvals to ensure ongoing business operations through engagement with 

governments, government agencies, Traditional Owners and other key stakeholders

•  Engage with governments, government agencies and other key stakeholders to ensure timely 

outcomes on development projects and operations

•  Continue to develop a long term vision for Jabiru with Traditional Owners, governments and 

stakeholders

•  Ongoing implementation of the objectives of the Ranger Mining Agreement, including business 

development, training and land management

Foster a diverse, committed and capable workforce
•  Manage opportunities for employees in the transition to a potential underground mining operation
•  Continue to grow the diversity of the ERA workforce
•  Continue to support and develop ERA’s leaders through leadership programs and individual 

development plans

•  Continue to use flexible people management strategies to ensure a committed and capable 

workforce

•  Continue to grow our regional training and development plan

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014
ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

11

2015 OBJECTIVES

… prepare for a future as an underground 
miner with a significantly smaller environmental 
footprint, generating shareholder value and 
contributing to the local economy.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

12

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Operating and Financial Review

A new assessment 
of opportunities 
for improving 
efficiency as part 
of preparations for 
underground mining 
is now underway.

Financial Performance

CASH FLOW
Operating cash flow was negative 
$54 million for the 12 months 
ending 31 December 2014 
(2013: negative $18 million). The 
absence of production in the first 
half of the year was offset by 
cash generated from sales from 
inventories, a sustained focus on 
cash preservation and delivery of 
business improvement initiatives.

Total cash flow result for the  
year is inclusive of expenditure  
of $83 million for exploration and 
evaluation, $12 million for capital 
expenditure and $57 million for 
rehabilitation projects. The cash 
balance for the year decreased from 
$357 million at 31 December 2013 to 
$293 million at 31 December 2014. 

EARNINGS
ERA recorded a net loss after tax 
of $188 million for the 12 months 
ending 31 December 2014 (2013: 
loss of $136 million).

REVENUE
In the delivery of reliable, long 
term supply of uranium oxide to 
customers, ERA principally focusses 
on sales into long term contracts.

Earnings were impacted by a draw 
down in inventory associated with 
the plant suspension, the purchase 
of uranium oxide and exploration 
and evaluation expenditure relating 
to the Ranger 3 Deeps Exploration 
Decline and Prefeasibility Study. 
This was partially offset by reduced 
non-cash costs and increased sales 
revenue.

ERA began a progressive restart of 
operations in June and returned 
to full mill throughput in the 
September quarter.

In 2014 ERA’s revenue from the sale 
of uranium oxide was $379 million 
(2013: $356 million).

Sales of uranium oxide were 3,148 
tonnes (2013: 2,815 tonnes). 
Sales in the first half of 2014 were 
supplied by existing levels of finished 
goods inventory on hand. ERA 
purchased uranium oxide to meet 
committed sales in the third quarter 
of 2014.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

13

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

In 2014, weakness in both the 
spot and long term uranium oxide 
indicators continued, adversely 
affecting ERA’s average realised  
sale price.

The average realised sale price of 
uranium oxide achieved by ERA 
in 2014 was US$49.50 per pound 
(2013: US$53.92).

Sales of uranium oxide are 
denominated in US dollars. In 2014, 
the Australia dollar continued to 
fall relative to the strengthening US 
dollar, exerting a positive influence 
on ERA’s revenue, particularly in the 
fourth quarter of the year.

COSTS
All operating costs incurred 
(excluding the purchase of 
uranium oxide) while the plant 
was suspended were allocated 
to the Statement of Financial 
Performance rather than absorbed 
into inventories.

Expenditure on contractors 
increased due to progress on the 
Ranger 3 Deeps Exploration Decline 
and Prefeasibility Study along with 
costs associated with the leach tank 
recovery works.

Raw materials and consumable costs 
were lower due to the suspension of 
processing operations.

Further savings have been achieved 
through improved procurement 
practices, reduction in the 
directly employed workforce and 
contractors, and continued focus 
on driving down corporate and 
overhead costs.

A lower asset cost base combined 
with reduced production in 2014 
associated with the plant shutdown 
delivered a further decrease in  
non-cash costs (depreciation). 
Depreciation is largely calculated on 
a units of production basis.

With the construction of the Brine 
Concentrator in 2013 and no 
significant new capital development 
projects, capital expenditure in 
2014 decreased to $12 million 
(2013: $91 million).

DIVIDENDS
ERA Directors have determined that 
a dividend for 2014 will not be paid. 
No dividend was paid in 2013.

FINANCIAL POSITION
Net assets have decreased during 
the year by approximately $188 
million. Impacting this was a 
decrease in cash, property, plant 
and equipment along with lower 
inventory holdings. These were 
partially offset by an increased 
deferred tax asset.

Total liabilities have decreased 
primarily due to a reduction in the 
rehabilitation provision.

ERA maintains approximately  
$293 million of cash on hand.

REHABILITATION PROVISION
ERA’s Integrated Tailings, Water 
and Closure Study has continued  
to optimise the rehabilitation  
plan for the Ranger Project Area. 
This review resulted in a decrease 
to the provision of $74 million.

The provision for rehabilitation 
represents the net present cost for 
rehabilitation as at 31 December 
2014 and stands at $512 million 
(2013: $603 million). The key 
changes related to the use of more 
efficient technology in thickening 
tailings transferred from the existing 
Tailings Storage Facility to Pit 3. 
The overall rehabilitation strategy 
remains unchanged.

BUSINESS REVIEW
ERA’s Business Review identified 
opportunities to operate more 
efficiently and reduce costs.

Introduced in 2011, the Business 
Review established cumulative 
operating cost saving targets 
of $150 million by the end of 
2014. During 2014, the review 
achieved cost savings of more than 
$23 million, and exceeded the 
cumulative cost saving target of 
$150 million.

A new assessment of opportunities 
for improving efficiency as part 
of preparations for underground 
mining is now underway.

Further savings have been 
achieved through improved 
procurement practices, 
reduction in the directly 
employed workforce and 
contractors, and continued 
focus on driving down 
corporate and overhead costs.

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OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Operations
During 2014 the restart of the 
Ranger processing operations 
involved a progressive ramp up as 
processing facilities were returned 
to service.

In line with production guidance, 
ERA produced 1,165 tonnes of 
uranium oxide in 2014 (2013:  
2,960 tonnes).

PLANT PERFORMANCE
Following the progressive ramp up 
of operations, both of the main 
mills and the laterite mill performed 
at capacity and were fed with 
stockpiled ore.

The volume of ore treated during 
the year was 1.3 million tonnes 
(2013: 2.3 million tonnes). Average 
mill head grade was 0.11 per cent 
(2013: 0.15).

Milling rates of 305 tonnes per 
hour reflected strong milling plant 
performance associated with ERA’s 
preventative maintenance program.

The processing shutdown in the 
first half of 2014 also provided 
an opportunity to conduct 
maintenance on the mills and 
associated equipment.

LEACH TANK RECOVERY
Following the failure of Leach 
Tank 1 in December 2013, ERA 
immediately suspended processing 
operations and fully cooperated 
with a range of investigations by 
the Commonwealth Department of 
Industry (now the Department of 
Industry and Science), the Northern 
Territory Department of Mines 
and Energy, the Commonwealth 
Supervising Scientist and NT 
WorkSafe. ERA also commissioned 
an independent investigation into 
the root cause of the failure and an 
independent review of the integrity 
of the processing plant.

(cid:83) Preparation work in Pit 3

A government appointed taskforce 
comprising representatives from 
the Commonwealth Department 
of Industry (now the Department 
of Industry and Science), the 
Northern Territory Department of 
Mines and Energy, NT WorkSafe, 
the Supervising Scientist, the 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation 
and the Northern Land Council was 
established to provide a coordinated 
regulatory response to the leach 
tank failure. The taskforce provided 
input and oversight of recovery 
works and investigations.

On behalf of the Northern Territory 
and Australian Governments, 
independent experts Noetic Risk 
Solutions and HRL Technology 
conducted an intensive investigation 
of the leach tank circuit and other 
critical infrastructure and ERA’s 
restart plans and plant integrity 
monitoring program.

Their final report was delivered 
to the Northern Territory and 
Commonwealth governments 
in October.

In August the Supervising Scientist 
confirmed there has been no 
impact to the surrounding 
environment as a result of the leach 
tank failure.

In response to the learnings from 
the leach tank recovery, ERA has 
produced a detailed plan for the 
improvement of process safety 
management and governance 
at Ranger, the Process Safety 
Improvement Action Plan.

BRINE CONCENTRATOR
2014 was the first full year 
of operation for the Brine 
Concentrator (See Environment, 
page 43).

The Brine Concentrator uses 
scientifically proven technology to 
treat process water stored in the 
Tailings Storage Facility.

During 2014 ERA worked with 
manufacturer HPD, a subsidiary 
of Veolia Water Solutions and 
Technologies, on optimisation of 
throughput and treatment settings 
to maximise output.

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OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

During 2014 the Brine Concentrator 
produced a total volume of 844 
megalitres of distillate.

PROGRESSIVE REHABILITATION 
– PIT 3
The initial backfill of Pit 3 was 
successfully completed in August, 
with a total of 33.7 million tonnes 
of waste rock placed into the pit.

ERA also completed installation 
of five brine injection wells, and a 
drain and extraction pump system 
which will enable injection of 
the waste brine from the Brine 
Concentrator into the pit and the 
transfer of dredged tailings from 
the Tailings Storage Facility.

A dredge has been designed and 
constructed to operate within the 
Tailings Storage Facility and will 
facilitate the transfer and pumping 
of tailings to Pit 3.

This work means that in 2015 ERA 
will have reached a significant 
rehabilitation milestone and 
tailings currently held in the Tailings 
Storage Facility will be progressively 
transferred to Pit 3, and the water 
in the Tailings Storage Facility will 
be progressively drawn down and 
treated.

The in-pit drainage and extraction 
pumping system installed in Pit 
3 at the end of 2014 enables the 
removal of water associated with 
the tailings slurry mixture and water 
within the backfilled rock. This 
water returns to the Tailings Storage 
Facility from where it can be treated 
by the Brine Concentrator.

The injection wells allow brines 
produced by the Brine Concentrator 
to be safely stored within the 
backfilled rock.

Transfer of tailings to Pit 3 will begin 
in 2015, ahead of the eventual 
rock capping, landforming and 
revegetation with locally sourced 
native plant species. Final Pit 3 
rehabilitation is to be completed  
by 2026.

PROGRESSIVE REHABILITATION 
– PIT 1
Both Pit 1 and Pit 3 are intended 
to encapsulate all mill tailings. 
Pit 1 is the most advanced with 
tailings having previously been 
placed in the pit as required by the 
Ranger Authority. That meant that 
rainwater run-off from the Pit 1 
catchment had to be managed as 
process water and transferred to 
the Tailings Storage Facility.

Current activities are associated 
with dewatering of the tailings 
to allow for final capping and 
conversion of the pit from a process 
water catchment to a pond water 
catchment.

During the year ERA made 
significant progress on the 
rehabilitation of Pit 1, which 
involved installing drainage wicks 
and compressing the tailings mass 
with a pre-load rock layer placed 
over geotextile fabric.

The rock pre-load activates the 
drainage wicks, forcing the water in 
Pit 1 to travel to the surface where 
it is collected and pumped to the 
Tailings Storage Facility. Removal of 
the water promotes consolidation 
of the tailings and allows the 
placement of final capping and 
rehabilitation to occur.

ERA had completed the placement 
of the pre-load rock layer by year 
end and a trial plot constructed 
within Pit 1 demonstrated the 
effectiveness of an impervious clay 
liner placed over the rock layer for 
water management.

Analysis of rainwater run-off from 
the clay liner demonstrates that 
when completed the capped Pit 
1 will be able to be managed 
as a pond water rain catchment 
area. Completion of the clay liner 
will allow the final bulk rock fill 
to be placed from 2017 ahead of 
landforming and revegetation.

A critical outcome of this change 
in water management for the Pit 1 
water catchment area is a further 
and significant reduction in process 
water entering the Tailings Storage 
Facility.

REHABILITATION – JABILUKA 
POND
The other principal rehabilitation 
activity undertaken in 2014 was the 
continued work to revegetate the 
former site of the Jabiluka Interim 
Water Management Pond.

In conjunction with the Gundjeihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation and 
Mirarr Traditional Owners, ERA 
has worked to rehabilitate and 
revegetate disturbed areas of the 
Jabiluka lease, including the site of 
the now dismantled pond.

During 2014 the planting at Jabiluka 
was completed with an additional 
4,679 local native tubestock trees 
planted at the landformed pond site 
(see Environment page 45).

ERA’s overall approach is informed 
by outcomes from the large-scale 
trial landform project (see Land, 
page 45). This project identifies 
effective strategies for surface 
landform design, erosion control 
and revegetation techniques for 
plant species.

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OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

JABIRU AIRPORT
The Jabiru Airport is located on 
the Ranger Project Area. The 
airport provides a critical regional 
air transport service for mining 
operations, tourism, emergency 
services and local communities.

In October ERA completed asphalt 
resealing works on the airport 
runway and turning apron. 
The reseal covered an estimated 
38,000 square metres to a depth 
of 25 millimetres. The airport was 
also recertified by the Civil Aviation 
Safety Authority.

JABIRU HOUSING AND 
ACCOMMODATION
ERA currently manages 279 
houses in Jabiru. During 2014 ERA 
continued discussions with the 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation 
relating to the future use of houses 
previously used to accommodate 
Ranger employees. Sixty houses 
were renovated and painted as part 
of routine maintenance.

Business Strategy
ERA is undergoing a business 
transition as it prepares for 
the proposed Ranger 3 Deeps 
underground mine.

This transition is in line with ERA’s 
vision to be a world-class uranium 
supplier that contributes to 
environmental sustainability and is 
trusted by Traditional Owners, the 
community and its people.

ERA’s key business objectives are to:
•  develop a long term resource 

base on the Ranger Project Area;

•  continue to operate effectively 

and safely;

•  build and maintain strong 

stakeholder relationships; and

•  demonstrate excellence in 
rehabilitation practices.

ERA considers that the 
implementation of these objectives 
will maximise shareholder value and 
benefit its stakeholders.

With the completion of open cut 
mining at Ranger, the future for 
ERA is focused on the potential 
development of a low impact 
underground mining operation.

The Ranger 3 Deeps underground 
mine is scheduled to progress 
in parallel with progressive 
rehabilitation of disturbed surface 
areas and continued management 
of water inventories.

Should the proposal for the 
development of the Ranger 3 
Deeps underground mining 
operation proceed, ERA will 
continue to provide the world’s 
nuclear utilities with reliable, 
high quality and competitive 
uranium supply.

In addition, the scheduled 
development of the Ranger 3 Deeps 
underground mine will position ERA 
to take advantage of an expected 
medium-term recovery in demand 
and prices for uranium.

(cid:83) Kevin Horace at the ball mill, which is part of the ore grinding circuit of the Ranger processing plant

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(cid:83) The Ranger 3 Deeps Exploration Decline was completed in 2014

ERA’s operations are located on 
Aboriginal land and are surrounded 
by, but separate from, the  
World Heritage-listed Kakadu 
National Park.

Respecting the culture and 
aspirations of Indigenous people 
in our community, particularly 
the Mirarr Traditional Owners, is 
a central element of ERA’s overall 
strategy.

This respect is closely linked with 
our commitment to protect the 
environment. ERA continues to invest 
in water management infrastructure 
and progressive rehabilitation of the 
Ranger Project Area.

In addition to Ranger 3 Deeps, the 
Jabiluka Mineral Lease remains 
one of ERA’s key assets. ERA has 
entered into a Long Term Care and 
Maintenance Agreement with the 
Mirarr Traditional Owners in relation 
to Jabiluka.

Future mining developments at 
Jabiluka will not occur without the 
consent of the Mirarr Traditional 
Owners.

RANGER 3 DEEPS EXPLORATION 
DECLINE
The Exploration Decline project, 
which was completed in 2014, 
comprised a three-phase 
construction program and an 
underground drilling program.

The first phase of development, 
completed in April 2014, involved 
construction of a 185 metre 
entrance portal and 1,900 metres 
of tunnel development.

The second phase of development 
involved construction of a low-
profile ventilation shaft and an 
extension to the decline to a 
distance of 2,710 metres. The third 
phase involved a 40 metre cross-cut 
through the ore body.

The cross-cut was designed to 
gather further data to validate mine 
design assumptions. The exploration 
drilling program occurred in parallel 
with the decline construction and 
comprised a total of 47,000 metres 
of close spaced drilling.

The main objectives of the Ranger 
3 Deeps underground drilling 
program were to:
•  increase confidence in the 

known mineralisation to allow 
conversion to a mineral resource;

•  understand the distribution 

and abundance of deleterious 
minerals such as carbonate;
•  support the development of 

prefeasibility level mine plans; 
and

•  explore those prospective areas 
with less historical drilling, 
particularly at the northern end 
of the deposit.

… the scheduled 
development of the Ranger 
3 Deeps underground mine 
will position ERA to take 
advantage of an expected 
medium-term recovery 
in demand and prices for 
uranium.

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OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

(cid:83) The 185 metre long entrance portal for the Ranger 3 Deeps Exploration Decline

Analysis of drilling results has 
significantly enhanced the 
resolution of the geological model 
and helped define the extent of the 
Ranger 3 Deeps mineralised zone 
(see Future Supply, page 22).

VENTILATION SHAFT
The six metre high and 5.5 metre 
wide Exploration Decline tunnel is 
continuously ventilated with fresh 
air pumped to the working areas.

During 2014 work was completed 
on the three metre diameter 
vertical ventilation shaft extending 
280 metres below the surface. 
The ventilation shaft excavation 
encountered unstable ground near 
the surface in May and required 
a modification in construction 
techniques.

A corrugated steel cylinder – similar 
to the material used to create the 
decline entrance portal – was placed 
vertically within the upper portion 
of the ventilation shaft while the 
surrounding ground was reinforced 
with a mixture of cement and rock.

The ventilation shaft was successfully 
commissioned in October.

RANGER 3 DEEPS  
PREFEASIBILITY STUDY
The $57 million Prefeasibility Study 
into the potential development of 
the Ranger 3 Deeps underground 
mine assessed the economic 
viability of the proposed mine, 
including the preferred mining 
method and the expected 
metallurgical performance and 
production rates.

This work also included designs for 
associated surface infrastructure 
such as the power plant, cooling 
facilities for underground air supply, 
a paste plant for backfill operations, 
and additional low-profile 
ventilation shafts.

Environmental studies were 
also undertaken in support of 
the environmental assessment 
process to address both Northern 
Territory and Commonwealth 
environmental requirements. These 
studies examined a range of factors 
associated with the proposed 
underground mine across all 
operational phases (construction, 
operation and closure) including:
•  radiation health and safety;
•  water management;
•  flora and fauna surveys;
•  air quality;
•  noise and vibration;
•  hydrogeological assessment;
•  cultural heritage;
•  socio-economic assessment;
•  transport; and
•  closure planning.

As part of preparations for the 
proposed underground mine 
ERA’s core sorting plant has been 
recommissioned to treat ore that 
contains high carbonate content.

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OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

The Prefeasibility Study has 
identified long-haul open stope 
mining with paste backfill as the 
preferred mining technique. This 
will require the construction of a 
paste plant at the surface.

The study has also developed a 
cost effective approach involving 
reuse of processed tailings material 
for the paste backfill operations 
required as part of the preferred 
stope and backfill mining technique.

The addition of cement to the wet 
tailings mix provides the necessary 
structural strength for use as paste 
backfill. Reusing tailings in this 
manner saves on backfill material 
costs, returns the tailings to their 
original underground location and 
reduces the volume of tailings to be 
placed in Pit 3.

The major activities contributing to 
the Ranger 3 Deeps Prefeasibility 
Study have been substantially 
completed, on schedule and on 
budget. ERA will undertake further 
work to review key technical 
assumptions and optimise the 
development pathway. Subject 
to satisfactory completion of this 
additional work, it is expected that 
the Board will consider progressing 
to Feasibility Study in 2015.

REGULATORY APPROVAL
Regulatory approval for the Ranger 
3 Deeps underground mine is 
being pursued in accordance 
with the Northern Territory 
Environmental Assessment Act and 
the Commonwealth Environment 
Protection and Biodiversity 
Conservation Act 1999.

The Northern Territory 
Environmental Protection Agency 
and the Commonwealth Department 
of Environment have determined 
that the proposed underground 
mine requires assessment at the level 
of Environmental Impact Statement 
through a single assessment process.

The draft Environmental Impact 
Statement for the Ranger 3 Deeps 
underground mine was submitted 
to the assessment agencies and the 
public comment period commenced 
on 3 October. 

During the following ten-week 
review period members of the 
public and interested parties were 
invited to comment on the project.

A series of public meetings and 
information sessions were held in 
Jabiru, Gunbalanya and Darwin 
during the review period to raise 
awareness of the project.

In addition, ERA held four 
community information days from 
June to September, and conducted 
bus tours of the Ranger mine site, 
at which information was provided 
about the proposed mine.

During the public review 
phase, hard copies of the draft 
Environmental Impact Statement 
were made available in Jabiru at the 
ERA community office, the offices 
of the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation and the Northern Land 
Council, and the West Arnhem 
Regional Council. 

Hard copies were also available in 
Darwin at the Northern Territory 
Library, the Northern Territory 
Environment Centre, the Mines and 
Energy Information Centre, and 
offices of the Northern Territory 
Environment Protection Authority 
and Commonwealth Department of 
the Environment.

Consideration of the submissions 
received will form part of the process 
for developing a supplementary 
Environmental Impact Statement, 
which is expected to be submitted to 
the Northern Territory Environment 
Protection Authority and the 
Commonwealth Department of the 
Environment in the first half of 2015.

More information about the draft 
Environmental Impact Statement 
approval process can be found at 
the Department of Environment 
website: www.environment.gov.au

BUSINESS RISKS
The business risks that could 
adversely affect the achievement 
of the financial performance or 
financial outcomes set out in this 
section are described below.

Exploration and project 
development risks
Exploration activities are inherently 
uncertain. There is a risk that the 
exploration activities undertaken 
by ERA may not be successful in 
delineating economically mineable 
reserves and resources.

There is also a risk that the 
development of the Ranger 3 Deeps 
resource may not be economically 
viable within the time constraints of 
the Ranger Section 41 Authority. 

If the Ranger 3 Deeps resource 
is not economically viable within 
the current Ranger Section 41 
Authority, an extension may be 
sought. There is no guarantee that 
an extension could be obtained.

Rehabilitation
ERA currently has authority to 
produce uranium oxide at the 
Ranger Project Area until January 
2021 and must fully rehabilitate 
the site by January 2026. The 
ultimate cost of rehabilitation is 
uncertain and while ERA has used 
its best estimate, costs may vary in 
response to factors such as legal 
requirements, technological change 
and market conditions.

In addition, if the Ranger 3 Deeps 
mine is not developed, in the 
absence of any other successful 
development, ERA may require an 
additional source of funding to 
fully fund the rehabilitation of the 
Ranger Project Area.  

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OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

Any inability to obtain additional 
capital or to monetise assets would 
have a material impact on ERA’s 
business and financial performance.

Water management
Management of water on the 
Ranger Project Area is critical to 
the ongoing operation of the 
Ranger mine and rehabilitation 
activities. ERA has a number of 
procedures and initiatives underway 
in respect to water management, 
including the Brine Concentrator. 
To the extent that these initiatives 
cost more than expected or ERA 
is required to implement further 
initiatives, ERA’s financial and 
operational performance and 
position may be impacted.

Uranium market demand, price 
and foreign exchange risks
ERA’s business relates primarily to 
the production and subsequent 
sale of uranium oxide to a variety of 
customers. Demand for, and pricing 
of, uranium oxide remains sensitive 
to external economic and political 
factors, many of which are beyond 
ERA’s control. Global uranium 
and foreign exchange market 
fluctuations may materially affect 
ERA’s financial performance.

General regulatory risks
Uranium mining in Australia 
is extensively regulated by 
Commonwealth, State and Territory 
Governments. In particular, the 
approval processes for uranium 
mining are more onerous, and 
therefore more costly, than for the 
mining of other minerals.

Government actions in Australia 
and other jurisdictions in which 
ERA has interests, including new 
or amended legislation, guidelines 
and regulations in relation to the 
environment, uranium or nuclear 
power sectors, competition policy, 
native title, and cultural heritage 
could impact ERA’s operations.

Operational aspects that may be 
affected include, among other 
things, land access rights, the 
granting of licences and other 
tenements, the extension of mine life 
and the approval of developments.

Capital and liquidity risks
The future liquidity and capital 
requirements of ERA will depend 
on many factors, including foreign 
exchange rate, prices, costs, 
resource and mining techniques.  
In particular, if ERA wishes to 
develop the Ranger 3 Deeps 

underground mine, based on current 
assumptions, ERA is likely to require 
capital at that time. Any inability to 
obtain sufficient capital would have 
a material impact on ERA’s business 
and financial performance.

Each year, the Company is required 
to prepare and submit to the 
Commonwealth Government an 
Annual Plan of Rehabilitation. Once 
accepted by the Commonwealth 
Government, the annual plan is then 
independently assessed and costed 
and the amount to be provided 
by the Company into the Ranger 
Rehabilitation Trust Fund is then 
delivered. The Trust Fund includes 
both cash and financial guarantees.

The Company’s ability to access 
bank guarantees can be influenced 
by many factors including, cash 
balance, future cash flows and 
shareholder support. Guarantees 
are generally renewed annually. 
Should renewal not occur, additional 
cash would be required to be 
deposited into the Trust Fund.

Regulators and stakeholders
Regulatory approvals will be required 
to commence any production from 
the proposed Ranger 3 Deeps mine 
or on any other parts of the Ranger 
Project Area. If regulatory approvals 
are not obtained in the proposed 
timeframe, or are obtained on 
unsatisfactory conditions, ERA will 
not be able to proceed with those 
developments.

Jabiluka
In relation to Jabiluka, ERA 
has agreed that future mining 
development will not occur without 
the consent of the Mirarr Traditional 
Owners. There is no guarantee that 
this consent will be forthcoming 
and, by extension, that the Jabiluka 
deposit will be developed.

(cid:87)  ERA General Manager Operations,  

Tim Eckersley

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OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW

ERA’s planning and operational activities 
are built on a comprehensive water 
management strategy based on industry 
leading monitoring systems.

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FUTURE SUPPLY

Future supply

(cid:83) Underground Construction Supervisor, Ross Howard, at one of the refuge chambers in the Ranger 3 Deeps Exploration Decline

EVALUATION AND EXPLORATION
During 2014 ERA completed work 
on the $120 million Exploration 
Decline to enable close spaced 
underground drilling of the 
Ranger 3 Deeps mineral resource 
to be undertaken. The major 
activities contributing to the $57 
million Prefeasibility Study into 
the proposed Ranger 3 Deeps 
underground mine were also 
substantially completed (see 
Operating and Financial Review, 
page 18).

ERA has reviewed the Ranger 3 
Deeps resource model and has 
made appropriate adjustments to 
the mineral resource statement.

The updated resource model 
estimate is 12.2 million tonnes at 
0.285% U3O8 equating to 34,761 
tonnes of uranium oxide. 

This compares to the previously 
reported estimate of 11.9 million 
tonnes at 0.274% U3O8 equating 
to 32,620 tonnes of contained 
uranium oxide.

During 2014, ERA also conducted 
surface exploration drilling on the 
Ranger Project Area at a cost of 
$5.8 million (2013: $10.5 million).

This exploration targeted deep 
structurally complex areas generated 
by analysis and interpretations 
of geology, geochemistry and 
geophysics to define and determine 
potential additional resources on the 
Ranger Project Area.

No significant intersections were 
encountered.

RANGER PROJECT AREA 
RESERVES AND RESOURCES
During 2014, ERA processed 
1,444 tonnes of uranium oxide. 
Consequently, the Probable Ore 
Reserves for Ranger decreased from 
6,756 tonnes of uranium oxide to 
6,206 tonnes of uranium oxide.

The depletion was partially offset 
by a variance in the recovery of 
uranium oxide (894 tonnes) from 
stockpiled ores relative  to the 
uranium oxide predicted by the 
stockpile resource model. During 
the reporting period, all processed 
ore was sourced from either run of 
mine stocks or low grade stockpiles.

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FUTURE SUPPLY

For the same period, Ranger 
Mineral Resources decreased by 
3,623 tonnes of uranium oxide, 
from 56,334 tonnes to 52,711 
tonnes. The decrease was mainly 
due to the placement of low grade 
ores in Pit 3 as part of the initial 
backfill process.

The table below sets out the 
reconciliation of Ranger Ore 
Reserves.

Ranger Ore Reserves

JABILUKA RESERVES AND 
RESOURCES
The Jabiluka Mineral Lease (MLN1) 
remains under long term care and 
maintenance.

In accordance with the Long Term 
Care and Maintenance Agreement, 
development by ERA will not 
proceed without the approval of 
the Mirarr Traditional Owners.

RANGER ORE RESERVES RECONCILIATION

ORE RESERVES

Ranger Ore Reserves as at 1 January 2014

Depletion by processing (primary and laterite ores)

Favourable Stockpile model variance in Primary Stockpile

Favourable Stockpile model variance in Laterites

Ranger Ore Reserves as at 31 December 2014

*Rounding differences may occur

GOVERNANCE ARRANGEMENTS 
AND INTERNAL CONTROLS
As a member of the Rio Tinto Group, 
ERA applies the standards of the 
Rio Tinto Ore Reserves Steering 
Committee (ORSC) in the generation 
and publication of Mineral Resources 
and Ore Reserves. Rio Tinto has 
established governance arrangements, 
in which ERA participates, to support 
this process.

The ORSC meets at least quarterly 
and is chaired by the Rio Tinto Group 
executive, Technology and Innovation. 
It comprises senior representatives 
from technical, financial and business 
groups within the Rio Tinto Group. 
The ORSC’s role includes setting 
the standards and qualifications for 
Competent Persons in accordance 
with the JORC Code 2012 which 
form the basis of Competent Person 
appointment by ERA.

Rio Tinto’s Resource and Reserve 
internal audit program is conducted 
by independent external consulting 
personnel in a program managed by 
Rio Tinto Group Audit and Assurance 
with the assistance of the ORSC.

Rio Tinto has continued the 
development of internal systems and 
controls to ensure compliance with 
the JORC Code 2012 in all external 
reporting including the preparation 
of reported data by ERA’s Competent 
Persons. As well as the establishment 
of an enhanced governance process, 
there have been a number of process 
improvements and training initiatives 
introduced by the ORSC over recent 
years, including a web-based reporting 
and sign-off database, annual 
internal Competent Person reports 
and Competent Person development 
and training.

The reserves and resources at 
Jabiluka remained unchanged during 
the year at 67,700 tonnes (reserves) 
and 73,940 tonnes (resources) of 
contained uranium oxide.

URANIUM OXIDE
(U3O8 TONNES)*

6,756

(1,444)

736

158

6,206

Internal sign-off of Mineral Resources 
and Ore Reserves for ERA is the 
responsibility of the Chief Executive 
and estimates are carried out by 
Competent Persons as defined by the 
JORC Code 2012. ERA’s Competent 
Persons are all full time employees 
of ERA.

In addition to the arrangements and 
internal controls established by the 
ORSC, the ERA Board oversees the 
governance of resources and reserves. 
This includes the annual review and 
approval of the publicly reported 
Ore Reserves and Mineral Resources 
Statement.

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FUTURE SUPPLY

Ore Reserves and Mineral Resources Statement for 2014

ERA 2014 ORE RESERVES & 
MINERAL RESOURCES

CUT-OFF GRADE –
STOCKPILE ORE 0.08% U3O8

CUT-OFF GRADE –
STOCKPILE ORE 0.08% U3O8

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2014

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2013

ORE (MT)

% U3O8

t U3O8

ORE (MT)

% U3O8

t U3O8

RANGER ORE RESERVES

Current Stockpiles

5.05

0.123

6,206

5.47

0.123

6,756

Ranger No. 3 Pit In situ

Proved

Probable

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Sub-total Proved and Probable Reserves

5.05

0.123

6,206

5.47

0.123

6,756

Total Ranger No. 3
Stockpiles, Proved and  
Probable Reserves

RANGER MINERAL RESOURCES

In Addition To The Above Reserve

5.05

0.123

6,206

5.47

0.123

6,756

CUT-OFF GRADE –
STOCKPILE RESOURCE 0.02% U3O8
UNDERGROUND INSITU RESOURCE
 0.15% U3O8

CUT-OFF GRADE –
OPEN PIT IN SITU RESOURCE  
0.02% U3O8
UNDERGROUND INSITU RESOURCE 
0.15% U3O8

Current Mineralised Stockpiles

38.29

0.05

17,844

49.89

0.05

23,037

In situ resource (R3 Deeps)

Measured

Indicated

Sub-total Measured and Indicated 
Resources

Inferred Resources

Total Resources

2.78

6.30

47.37

3.50

50.87

0.32

0.28

0.09

0.25

0.10

 8,922

17,366

44,128

–

9.49

59.38

8,579

0.65

52,711

60.03

–

0.32

0.09

0.38

0.09

–

30,820

53,857

2,477

56,334

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

25

FUTURE SUPPLY

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2014 
CUT-OFF GRADE 0.20% U3O8

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2013 
CUT-OFF GRADE 0.20% U3O8

ORE (MT)

% U3O8

t U3O8

ORE (MT)

% U3O8

t U3O8

JABILUKA ORE RESERVES

Proved

Probable

–

13.80

Total Proved and Probable Reserves

13.80

JABILUKA MINERAL RESOURCES

In Addition To The Above Reserve

Measured

Indicated

Sub-total Measured and Indicated

Inferred Resources

Total Resources

Note: Ranger Ore Reserves and 
Mineral Resources are reported in 
accordance with the Australasian Code 
for Reporting of Exploration Results, 
Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, 
2012 Edition (JORC Code 2012). In 
2013, Jabiluka Ore Reserves and 
Mineral Resources were reported in 
accordance with the Australasian Code 
for Reporting of Exploration Results, 
Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, 
2004 Edition (JORC Code 2004). On 
the basis that there was no new data or 
information available in 2014 that would 
require the estimates to be updated, 
Jabiluka Ore Reserves and Mineral 
Resources continue to be reported 
under the JORC Code 2004. Each of the 
JORC Code 2012 and the JORC Code 
2004 envisage the use of reasonable 
investment assumptions, including the 
use of projected long-term commodity 
prices, in calculating reserve estimates. 

As required by the Australian Securities 
Exchange (ASX), the above tables also 
contain details of other mineralisation 
that has a reasonable prospect of being 
economically extracted in the future 
but which is not yet classified as Proven 
or Probable Reserves. This material is 
defined as Mineral Resources under the 
JORC Code 2012 and the JORC Code 
2004. 

–

0.49

0.49

0.48

0.36

0.36

0.53

0.48

–

67,700

67,700

1,140

15,330

16,440

57,500

73,940

–

13.80

13.80

0.24

4.30

4.54

10.90

15.44

–

0.49

0.49

0.48

0.36

0.36

0.53

0.48

–

67,700

67,700

1,140

15,300

16,440

57,500

73,940

0.24

4.30

4.54

10.90

15.44

Estimates of such material are based 
largely on geological information with 
only preliminary consideration of mining, 
economic and other factors. While in 
the judgment of the Competent Person 
there are realistic expectations that all 
or part of the Mineral Resources will 
eventually become Proven or Probable 
Reserves, there is no guarantee that 
this will occur as the result depends on 
further technical and economic studies 
and prevailing economic conditions in 
the future. 

The information in the above table is 
sourced from the Energy Resources 
of Australia Ltd (ERA) 2014 Annual 
Statement of Reserves and Resources 
which was released to ASX on  
6 February 2014 and can be found at: 
www.asx.com.au/asxpdf/20150206/
pdf/42wg9j5tpg0ksw.pdf. Neither 
the information that relates to Ranger 
and Jabiluka Mineral Resources or Ore 
Reserves, nor the underlying resource 
models, has changed since the ERA 
2014 Annual Statement of Reserves and 
Resources was disclosed to ASX. ERA 
is not aware of any new information 
or data beyond the updates already 
provided to the market that materially 
affects the Ore Reserves and Mineral 
Resources estimate. All assumptions and 
technical parameters underpinning the 
estimates continue to apply and have 
not materially changed. 

The information in this report that 
relates to Ranger and Jabiluka Mineral 
Resources is based on information 
compiled by geologists Stephen Pevely 
(a full time employee of ERA) and 
Greg Rogers (a full time employee of 
ERA). The information in this report 
that relates to Ranger and Jabiluka 
Ore Reserves is based on information 
compiled by mining engineer John 
Murphy (a full time employee of 
ERA). Stephen Pevely, Greg Rogers 
and John Murphy are all members of 
the Australasian Institute of Mining 
& Metallurgy and have sufficient 
experience which is relevant to the 
style of mineralisation and the type of 
deposit under consideration, and to the 
activity which they are undertaking, 
to qualify as Competent Persons as 
defined in the JORC Code 2012 and the 
JORC Code 2004. Stephen Pevely, Greg 
Rogers and John Murphy consent to the 
inclusion in this report of the matters 
based on their information in the form 
and context in which it appears. 

Summary data for year end 2013 are 
shown for comparison. Metric units 
are used throughout. The figures used 
to calculate reserves and resources are 
often more precise than the rounded 
numbers shown in the tables, hence 
small differences might result if the 
calculations are repeated using the 
tabulated figures.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

26

MARKETS AND CUSTOMERS

Markets and customers

(cid:83) Plant Technician Brett Warhurst in the processing control room at Ranger

ERA sells its product – drummed 
uranium oxide – to electric utilities 
in Asia, Europe and North America.

These exports are subject to strict 
safeguards and non-proliferation 
conditions to ensure that Australian 
uranium is only used for peaceful 
purposes.

In April ERA and Rio Tinto 
Uranium executed a new sales 
and marketing agreement which 
has seen production from ERA 
and Rössing Uranium Limited 
(a subsidiary of Rio Tinto plc) 
combined to create a multi-sourced 
marketing pool. The agreement 
is now in effect and operating 
successfully.

Under the agreement, Rio Tinto 
Uranium purchases all uranium 
oxide produced by ERA and Rössing 
Uranium Limited to market and sell 
to nuclear utility customers around 
the world.

The price received by ERA for sales 
into the combined pool reflects the 
price received from customers by 
Rio Tinto Uranium less an arms-
length marketing fee. Previously, Rio 
Tinto Uranium provided marketing 
services to ERA under an agency-
based arrangement with sales 
contracts being entered into directly 
between ERA and the customer.

Should the Ranger 3 Deeps 
underground mine be developed 
as planned, ERA’s long production 
history and strong relationship 
with its customer base will create 
a platform for continuity of supply 
and operations.

In 2014 ERA produced 1,165 tonnes 
of uranium oxide (2013: 2,960 
tonnes) and sold a total of 3,148 
tonnes of uranium oxide (2013: 
2,815 tonnes).

ERA’s average realised price in 2014 
was $US49.50 per pound (2013: 
$US53.92 per pound), which was 
significantly higher than the spot 
price over the course of the year.

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27

MARKETS AND CUSTOMERS

ERA focusses on long term 
contracting with a variety of 
pricing mechanisms in order 
to capture the highest market 
value for its product, and to 
reduce its exposure to the 
spot price, which historically 
lags long term prices

India also has an ambitious program 
to expand its nuclear power 
generation, and this year saw 
positive developments with regard 
to the Australian Government 
concluding a nuclear cooperation 
agreement with India. While this 
requires additional administrative 
agreements to be negotiated and 
concluded, it is a promising first 
step towards ERA being able to 
export uranium to India for use in 
commercial reactors.

At Ranger, ERA’s current work 
to develop the Ranger 3 Deeps 
underground mine will position the 
Company to take advantage  
of expected future nuclear  
power growth.

ERA focusses on long term 
contracting with a variety of pricing 
mechanisms in order to capture 
the highest market value for its 
product, and to reduce its exposure 
to the spot price, which historically 
lags long term prices.

Since the March 2011 tsunami and 
accident at Fukushima, the global 
uranium market continues to suffer 
from reduced demand and excess 
supply, resulting in depressed 
prices. The spot price reached a  
low of US$28.23 per pound in  
mid-2014, and later recovered to 
the US$35.50 per pound by  
year-end, which represents only  
a modest recovery above 2006 
price levels.

While the Japanese reactor fleet of 
54 units remains closed due to the 
accident at Fukushima, the Japanese 
Government and regulatory bodies 
continue to work on a program to 
restart reactors.

It is expected that three to four 
reactors will be back on line in the 
first half of 2015, and five to 10 
restarted each year after that.

Continued production expansion 
from existing mines, along with 
secondary-supply disposition from 
a variety of sources, has created a 
substantial increase in supply during 
a period of reduced demand.

Although these factors are 
dampening price strength in the 
short term, the medium and 
longer term outlook for uranium 
remains positive.

New reactor growth in China and 
the planned restart of the Japanese 
reactor fleet is expected to drive 
growth from 2015 to 2025 which 
is forecast to be higher than at any 
period since the 1970s.

China will likely become the world’s 
largest user of nuclear energy, 
surpassing the United States of 
America in the early part of the 
next decade.

Mainland China has 21 nuclear 
power reactors in operation and 
27 under construction.

Planned additional reactors 
include some of the world’s most 
advanced, and will give China more 
than a three-fold increase in nuclear 
capacity to at least 58 gigawatts by 
2020. This is expected to increase to 
around 150 gigawatts by 2030.

World-wide there are 436 
operating reactors, with 71 under 
construction, and a further 174 
planned. The majority of reactor 
growth is occurring in Asia, 
including India.

This growth is being driven by 
energy security concerns and 
the rapidly expanding power 
requirements needed to sustain 
regional economic growth, as well 
as continued action on managing 
air pollution associated with 
coal fired power and reducing 
greenhouse gas emissions.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

 
28

FUTURE SUPPLY

(cid:83)  Pit 3 mining operations 
prior to closure of the 
mine at the end of 2012

(cid:88)  Installation of the drainage 
system in Pit 3, December 
2014, to convert the 
pit to receive tailings as 
part of Tailings and Brine 
Management program

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29

FUTURE SUPPLY

Delivering on rehabilitation, ERA invested a 
further $57 million on rehabilitation in 2014, 
including the initial backfilling of Pit 3 with 
more than 33 million tonnes of material.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

30

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Health and safety

Safety is a core value for ERA. 
The team at ERA is committed to 
zero harm.

To achieve the goal of zero 
harm, ERA has established clear 
accountabilities and systems, 
designed to help employees, 
contractors and managers take 
personal responsibility for safe 
behaviour.

ERA has a range of programs and 
strategic approaches designed to 
help new arrivals and experienced 
workers alike maintain focus on safe 
behaviour.

These programs and strategies are 
supported by systems and processes 
which provide a framework for 
translating corporate goals into safe 
work practices at business unit, 
work team and individual levels.

ERA measures safety by the All 
Injury Frequency Rate (AIFR). This is 
a measure of all reportable injuries 
– lost time injuries, restricted work 
injuries and medical treatment cases 
– per 200,000 hours worked.

Disappointingly, during 2014 
there was a decline in ERA’s safety 
performance compared to the 
strong performance of 2013.  
The AIFR was 1.27 (2013: 0.91).

ERA’s Lost Time Injury Frequency 
Rate (LTIFR) per 200,000 hours for 
2014 was 1.13 compared with  
0.52 in 2013.

(cid:83) Emergency Services Officer Matthew Lynch

Medical treatment cases

Operator fell to the ground requiring treatment

Lost Time Injuries

Operator suffered injury to head when excavator rolled on its side

Maintainer fractured bone in hand while operating a drill

Operator injured hand in operating conveyor

Maintainer fractured thumb following impact from hammer

Field assistant rolled ankle while exiting caravan steps

Maintainer injured finger caught between belt and pulley

Operator injured elbow when metal lid fell onto arm

Contractor injured hand caught in container door

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

31

HEALTH AND SAFETY

AUDITS
ERA’s Health, Safety and 
Environment Management System 
includes the Water Management 
and Radiation Management 
Systems.

ERA’s integrated Health, Safety and 
Environment Management System 
provides certification to both ISO 
14001 (the international standard 
for environmental management 
systems) and AS4801 (the 
Australian standard for occupational 
health and safety management 
systems).

During 2014 the Health, Safety 
and Environment Management 
System was subject to independent 
audit for the purpose of ensuring 
compliance and recertification 
to the relevant standards. As a 
result, the Health, Safety and 
Environment Management System 
was recertified as compliant with 
ISO 14001 and AS4801.

In addition to a series of 
investigations and reviews 
associated with the failure of 
Leach Tank 1 in December 
2013 (see Operations page 14) 
ERA participated in range of 
routine audits.

ERA participated in the annual 
Government and Stakeholder Audit, 
which monitors compliance with 
government regulations and also 
completed 13 government and 
stakeholder inspections which take 
place every four weeks throughout 
the year.

SAFETY LEADERSHIP
Safety leadership is a core element 
of ERA’s safety culture and involves 
ongoing engagement with leaders, 
employees and contractors on 
safety issues, awareness and 
training.

Safety leadership was a central 
part of planning and delivery of 
ERA’s operational activities in 
2014, including the clean-up and 
recovery operation associated 
with the failure of Leach Tank 1, 
the successful completion of the 
underground Exploration Decline, 
the initial backfill of Pit 3, and the 
rock capping of Pit 1.

During 2014 ERA continued a 
range of targeted safety campaigns 
designed to raise awareness 
and encourage safe behaviours 
in relation to driving between 
Darwin and Jabiru, prestart safety 
planning for maintenance crews 
and hydration and heat stress 
management, particularly in the 
lead up to the end of year wet 
season.

The non-routine nature of work 
associated with the demolition of 
the damaged Leach Tank 1 and 
the associated clean-up activities 
required close attention to safety 
inductions and management for 
contractors.

During the year ten Critical Control 
Management Plans (CCMPs) were 
developed for the high and critical 
risks in the ERA Health, Safety 
and Environment Risk Register. 
CCMPs systematically document 
and address control measures to 
manage risks including classified 
plant, crane and electrical 
competency of contractors, high 
voltage switching, road travel and 
working at heights.

PROCESS SAFETY
The introduction of the Process 
Safety Improvement Action Plan 
in 2014 provides a strong focus on 
the integrity of key assets and the 
culture of asset safety awareness.

The action plan and its 
implementation are to be reviewed 
on a quarterly basis by the 
Commonwealth and Northern 
Territory regulators.

The action plan builds on ERA’s 
previous process safety review 
activities, which include the 
identification and analysis of 
process safety hazards and a focus 
on the effectiveness of critical 
controls to prevent and mitigate 
process safety incidents.

To achieve the goal of zero 
harm, ERA has established 
clear accountabilities and 
systems, designed to help 
employees, contractors and 
managers take personal 
responsibility for safe 
behaviour. 

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

 
32

RADIATION MONITORING

Radiation monitoring

(cid:83)  ERA Radiation Safety Advisor, Andrew Walcott, undertakes a radiation check

ERA’s Ranger mine radiation 
monitoring program helps ensure 
that radiation exposure to workers, 
the public and the environment is 
as low as reasonably achievable 
(ALARA).

The radiation monitoring program 
is supported by the ERA Radiation 
Policy and a comprehensive 
Radiation Management Plan. 
These are designed to achieve the 
responsibilities and performance 
outcomes specified in ERA’s 
overarching Health, Safety and 
Environment Management System.

ERA’s Health, Safety and 
Environment Management System 
is certified to Australian (AS4801) 
and international (ISO14001) 
standards and was independently 
audited and successfully recertified 
in 2014.

ERA uses a variety of fixed and 
personal monitoring systems to 
assess radiation exposure.

Results from this monitoring 
program for the first three quarters 
of 2014 demonstrate that workers, 
the public and the environment 
were not exposed to unacceptable 
levels of ionising radiation and all 
results were well below regulatory 
dose limits. Results for the fourth 
quarter will not be known until 
early in 2015.

The International Commission 
on Radiological Protection (ICRP) 
recommends limits for uranium 
industry workers as adopted into 
Australian legislation.

The ICRP sets two levels of 
radiation exposure, other than from 
natural and medical sources, to 
distinguish between two types of 
people: members of the public and 
radiation workers.

The associated radiation exposure 
limits (above natural background 
and medical exposures) are:
•  Members of the public: 1 

millisievert (mSv) per annum; and

•  Radiation workers: 20 mSv  

per year over five years with  
a maximum of 50 mSv in any 
one year.

Results from ERA’s monitoring 
activities are compared with these 
ICRP limits.

Workers at ERA whose occupational 
exposure to radiation may exceed 
5 mSv per year are declared 
‘designated’ workers and their 
exposure is more stringently 
monitored. In 2014, the designated 
workgroups included Mine 
Production, Mine Maintenance, 
Process Production, Process 
Maintenance and Electrical 
Maintenance.

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33

RADIATION MONITORING

Continual monitoring throughout 
the year helps ERA ensure that 
doses remain at the lower end of 
the spectrum for uranium workers, 
as set out in the ICRP principles 
of Justification, Optimisation and 
Limitation.

Doses are calculated using the 
methodology required by the 
Code of Practice on Radiation 
Protection and Radioactive Waste 
Management in Mining and Mineral 
Processing and approved in the 
Ranger Section 41 Authority.

The total effective dose is the 
sum of doses from three exposure 
pathways: external gamma 
radiation, inhalation of radon decay 
products and inhalation of long 
lived alpha activity in dust.

ERA provides occupational 
radiation dose data for workers 
at Ranger mine to the Australian 
Government’s Australian National 
Radiation Dose Register (ANRDR) 
on a quarterly basis. The ANRDR 
collects, stores, manages and 
distributes radiation dose records 
received by workers in the course 
of their employment. The register 
reflects the Australian Government’s 
commitment to strengthen 
occupational health and safety 
requirements for individuals working 
at uranium mining and milling sites.

On an annual basis, ERA also 
provides a copy of personal dose 
records to each designated worker. 
This is in addition to designated 
workers being able to obtain this 
data from the ANRDR.

RESULTS
To ensure highest possible quality 
control on radiation doses, the 
results are reviewed internally 
by ERA and externally by the 
appropriate regulatory authorities.

The maximum and mean annual 
radiation doses received by 
designated workers and the 
maximum radiation doses received 
by non-designated workers during 
2014 will be reported in the 2014 
Annual Radiation Protection and 
Atmospheric Monitoring Report.

The 2014 report will be submitted 
to stakeholders in March 2015 
in accordance with the Ranger 
Section 41 Authority. Accordingly, 
only preliminary data for 2014 is 
presented in this report.

The maximum and mean annual 
radiation doses received thus far 
in 2014 by designated and non-
designated workers are summarised 
in the table below. The lower doses 
in the third quarter for designated 
workers are in line with the return 
to normal operating conditions 
after the plant-wide shutdown that 
followed the leach tank failure in 
December 2013.

The potential exposures to Jabiru 
residents from the Ranger mine 
activities are also monitored 
throughout the year and are 
calculated annually. The resulting 
contribution from Ranger mine 
remains very low in comparison to 
both the public dose limit and the 
natural background radiation level. 
Historically the contribution from 
Ranger mine has been, on average, 
approximately 0.02 mSv (or 2 per 
cent) of the 1.0 mSv member of 
public dose limit and less than 1 per 
cent of the natural background in 
Australia of 2 – 3 mSv, (which varies 
according to location).

RADIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT 
FOLLOWING LEACH TANK FAILURE
On 7 December 2013, Leach Tank 
1 at Ranger mine failed, spilling 
approximately 1,400 cubic metres 
of slurry containing ground uranium 
ore, water and sulphuric acid into 
the processing plant area.

Following the leach tank failure 
and throughout the subsequent 
recovery and clean-up operations, a 
series of investigations and reviews 
were conducted. This included 
a radiological assessment by the 
Supervising Scientist.

RADIATION DOSE

DESIGNATED 
WORKERS

NON-DESIGNATED 
WORKERS

Q1 – Maximum (mSv)

Q1 – Mean (mSv)

Q2 – Maximum (mSv)

Q2 – Mean (mSv)

Q3 – Maximum (mSv)

Q3 – Mean (mSv)

1.74

0.52

1.47

0.37

1.09

0.23

0.84

0.41

0.51

0.09

0.40

0.15

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

34

RADIATION MONITORING

The Supervising Scientist’s 
assessment was confined to the 
potential impacts on human health 
and the offsite environment, 
including Kakadu National Park, as 
a result of the tank failure.

The Supervising Scientist’s August 
2014 report stated:
“Radiological assessment of 
both the spill site and personal 
dosimeters show that additional 
radiation doses to workers involved 
in the clean-up activities were low 
and assessed to be of no concern to 
human health.

“No increase in airborne 
radionuclide concentrations as a 
result of the incident was detected 
at the Supervising Scientist 
monitoring stations in Jabiru town 
or at Jabiru East.”

(cid:83)  Construction activities at Ranger

(cid:88) Jai Nadjamerrek entered an ERA 
traineeship during 2014

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

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RADIATION MONITORING

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

36

REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

Regulatory framework

Uranium mining activities in 
Australia are strictly regulated by 
the Commonwealth and State or 
Territory Governments.

The purpose of these regulations 
is to ensure uranium mining 
performance and compliance in a 
range of critical areas, including 
health and safety, mine safety, 
safe management of toxic and 
radioactive substances, waste 
disposal, transport safety, 
export controls, protection and 
rehabilitation of the environment, 
native title, exploration, 
development, taxes and royalties, 
labour standards and mine 
reclamation.

International agreements designed 
to prevent nuclear proliferation 
also govern the mining and export 
of uranium. Exports are subject 
to strict safeguards and non-
proliferation conditions to ensure 
that Australian uranium is only used 
for peaceful purposes.

REGULATION OF ERA’S 
OPERATIONS
Commonwealth and Northern 
Territory legislation provides the 
regulatory framework for ERA’s 
uranium mining activities.

ERA’s operations are closely 
supervised and monitored by key 
statutory bodies including:
•  Commonwealth Department of 

Industry and Science;

•  Northern Territory Department 

of Mines and Energy;

•  Commonwealth Government’s 

Supervising Scientist;
•  Northern Land Council;
•  Alligator Rivers Region Advisory 

Committee (including non-
government organisation 
representatives); and,

•  Alligator Rivers Region Technical 

Committee (including non-
government organisation 
representatives).

The Ranger and Jabiluka Minesite 
Technical Committees are the 
key forums for consideration of 
environmental matters relating to 
Ranger and Jabiluka.

Committee members include 
representatives of the Gundjeihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation, the 
Northern Land Council, the 
Northern Territory Department 
of Mines and Energy, the 
Commonwealth Department of 
Industry and Science, and the 
Commonwealth Supervising 
Scientist.

The Alligator Rivers Region Advisory 
Committee (ARRAC) provides a 
formal forum for consultation on 
matters relating to the effects of 
uranium mining on the environment 
in the region.

Committee members include 
representatives of the Northern 
Territory Government, the 
Commonwealth Government, the 
Northern Land Council, Aboriginal 
associations, mining companies 
(including ERA), West Arnhem 
Shire, the Northern Territory 
Environment Centre and other 
members who may be appointed by 
the Commonwealth Minister for the 
Environment.

Further information on ARRAC can 
be obtained at:
http://www.environment.gov.au/
ssd/communication/committees/
arrac/index

The Alligator Rivers Region 
Technical Committee (ARRTC) 
oversees the nature and extent 
of research being undertaken to 
protect and restore the environment 
in the Alligator Rivers Region from 
any effects of uranium mining.

The 14 ARRTC members include 
seven independent scientists 
nominated by the Federation 
of Australian Scientists and 
Technological Societies with 
the remaining representatives 
being from the Commonwealth 
Government’s Supervising Scientist, 
Northern Territory Government, 
ERA, Uranium Equities Ltd, 
Northern Land Council, Parks 
Australia and a non-government 
environment organisation.

Further information on ARRTC can 
be contained at:
http://www.environment.gov.au/
ssd/communication/committees/
arrtc/index.html

In January 2013, the Gundjeihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation on behalf of 
the Mirarr Traditional Owners, the 
Northern Land Council, ERA and 
the Commonwealth Government 
finalised a suite of agreements to 
join others that govern operations 
at the Ranger Project Area, 
including a new Mining Agreement.

INTERNATIONAL AND 
AUSTRALIAN CERTIFICATION
ERA maintains international 
certification (ISO 14001) of its 
Health, Safety and Environmental 
Management System, which 
includes the Company’s Water 
Management System.

ERA also maintains Australian 
certification (AS4801) of its 
Health, Safety and Environment 
Management System, including 
the Ranger Radiation Management 
System, and the new Process Safety 
Improvement System.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

37

OVERVIEW

Sustainable 
Development 
Report 2014

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT REPORT 2014

38

CONTENTS

Contents

Overview .................................................................................................................... 40

Environment ............................................................................................................... 41

Land ........................................................................................................................... 45

Employment ............................................................................................................... 48

Community ................................................................................................................. 51

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

39

Due to the sensitive nature of the 
surrounding environment, ERA strives for 
safety leadership, environmental protection 
and strong and enduring relationships with 
all stakeholders.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

40

OVERVIEW

Overview

The area surrounding ERA’s operations is internationally 
recognised for unique ecosystems and biodiversity, 
significant environmental and cultural heritage values, 
and a long tradition of human habitation.

Due to the sensitive nature of the 
surrounding environment, ERA strives 
for safety leadership, environmental 
protection and strong and enduring 
relationships with all stakeholders.

ERA’s commitment to protect the 
environment in 2014 was confirmed 
by the Australian Government’s 
Supervising Scientist, which conducts 
extensive monitoring and research 
programs.

ERA will continue to engage with 
the Mirarr Traditional Owners, 
local communities and all levels of 
government to protect the natural 
environment on which it operates 
and maintain Jabiru as an important 
regional centre, creating educational, 
cultural, social and economic 
development opportunities for local 
people and future generations.

THE MIRARR
The Mirarr are Traditional Owners of 
the lands on which ERA operates.

Mirarr country encompasses the 
Ranger Project Area and the Jabiluka 
Mineral Lease, the town of Jabiru 
and parts of Kakadu National Park, 
including the wetlands of the Jabiluka 
billabong country and the sandstone 
escarpment of Mount Brockman.

The Mirarr hold beneficial freehold 
title to traditional country via the 
Kakadu and Jabiluka Land Trusts and 
in accordance with the Aboriginal Land 
Rights (Northern Territory) Act (1976).

In 1995, the Mirarr established the 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation, an 
incorporated body, to assist them to 
manage a balance between sustainable 
development and traditional practice 
on their land, and to direct income 
from mining royalties across a wide 
range of fields and activities that cover 
heritage, economic and community 
development, education, training and 
employment.

ERA recognises that the support 
of Traditional Owners is critically 
important to its current operations, 
future projects and successful 
rehabilitation.

(cid:84) Onsite water catchment

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ENVIRONMENT

Environment

ERA is committed to protecting the unique environment 
in which it operates.

Measures to protect the environment 
include a wide range of preventative 
and monitoring activities.

ERA has a particular focus on water 
management and monitoring which 
reflects the potential for extreme 
rainfall associated with the top end 
climate.

The Australian Government’s 
Supervising Scientist monitors the 
impact of uranium mining on the 
environment and people in the 
Alligator Rivers Region, including water 
quality and aquatic biology indicators 
in Magela Creek and other waterways 
adjacent to the Ranger mine.

(cid:84)  Superintendent Water 

Management, Ben McTavish, 
undertakes onsite testing

The Supervising Scientist uses a 
structured program of audits and 
inspections, in conjunction with the 
Northern Territory Department of 
Mines and Energy, the Northern Land 
Council and the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation, to supervise regional 
uranium mining operations.

ERA’s monitoring results and the results 
from the Supervising Scientist are made 
available to the public.

During 2014, results from statutory 
monitoring programs showed that ERA 
continued to protect the surrounding 
environment.

LEACH TANK INVESTIGATION
The Supervising Scientist conducted an 
investigation into the environmental 
impacts of the December 2013 failure 
of Leach Tank 1.

Ranger mine’s containment 
management systems fully captured 
the slurry material from the failed leach 
tank and the environment surrounding 
Ranger mine, including Kakadu 
National Park, remained protected 
during and following this event.

ERA’s containment systems are in place 
to safeguard Kakadu National Park in 
the event of plant or equipment failure 
and the systems operated as designed 
during the event.

The Supervising Scientist’s investigation 
was one of four investigations  
co-ordinated by a government-
appointed taskforce.

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ENVIRONMENT

The Water Management Plan sets 
out the operational activities for the 
full range of water management 
activities across the Ranger mine site, 
including water capture, storage, 
supply, distribution, sampling, use, 
treatment and disposal.

To ensure currency and to reflect 
any changes to conditions on site, 
the Water Management Plan is 
updated every year and submitted to 
regulatory authorities for approval.

Every two years ERA’s Health, Safety 
and Environment Management 
System is subject to independent 
audit and certification to Australian 
(AS4801) and international 
(ISO 14001) standards.

WATER IS MANAGED ACCORDING 
TO QUALITY
There are a number of different 
classes of water within the Ranger 
mine site: process water, pond 
water, release water, potable water 
and water including treatment plant 
permeate or Brine Concentrator 
distillate.

Each class of water requires a 
different management approach:
•  process water has been in 
contact with uranium ore 
during processing operations 
and must be managed within 
a closed system, and stored 
in the Tailing Storage Facility 
prior to treatment via the Brine 
Concentrator;

The Supervising Scientist’s report 
Investigation into the environmental 
impacts of the leach tank failure at 
Ranger uranium mine, December 
2013 found that: “the leach tank 
failure has not resulted in any 
adverse impacts to human health 
or the surrounding environment, 
including Kakadu National Park.”

This Supervising Scientist’s 
investigation also found that:
•  radiation doses to workers 

involved in the clean-up activities 
were low and of no concern to 
human health;

•  there was no increase in airborne 
radionuclide concentrations; and

•  chemical and biological 

monitoring in Magela Creek did 
not detect any effects related to 
the leach tank failure.

WATER
Water management is critical 
to the success of ERA’s business 
and environmental protection 
objectives.

ERA operates in a tropical climate 
that is characterised by extended 
dry periods and high rainfall. These 
extreme conditions pose challenges 
for effective management of water 
on the Ranger Project Area.

A key aspect of ERA’s approach to 
water management is having the 
flexibility and operational capability 
to store and treat large volumes of 
differing types of water based on 
the quality of that water.

As a result, ERA’s operational and 
planning activities are built on a 
comprehensive water management 
strategy based on industry leading 
monitoring systems and significant 
investment in infrastructure for  
the storage, transfer and treatment 
of water.

Over the past four years ERA has 
successfully completed a range 
of water management projects 
including:
•  construction of the $220 million 

Brine Concentrator;

•  a process water contingency 

transfer pumping system from 
the Tailings Storage Facility to  
Pit 3;

•  surface water and seepage 

interception trenches around 
stockpiles;

•  increasing capacity of the Tailings 

Storage Facility;

•  the construction and 

commissioning of a one gigalitre 
capacity Retention Pond;
•  use of continuous real-time 
water quality monitoring 
stations;

•  increasing the network of 

ground water monitoring bores 
to over 200; and

•  installation of over 7,000 

prefabricated vertical drains 
(wicks) across the Pit 1 tailings 
area.

In addition, ERA continued 
with water management works 
associated with progressive 
rehabilitation of Pit 1 and Pit 3 
(see Operations page 15).

MANAGEMENT OF WATER
ERA’s water management 
operations and planning activities 
are governed by an overarching 
Health, Safety and Environment 
Management System.

The objectives for water 
management described in the 
Health, Safety and Environment 
Management System are achieved 
in practical terms through ERA’s 
Water Management Plan.

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ENVIRONMENT

•  pond water has been in contact 
with stockpiled mineralised 
material and operational areas 
of the site, other than those 
contained within the process 
water system. Pond water is 
held in the pond water system 
comprising a series of sumps and 
holding ponds prior to being put 
through treatment plants;
•  potable water is high quality 

bore water used for drinking and 
ablution. Water used in ablutions 
is treated via septic tanks and 
disposed of via transpiration 
trenches;

•  release water comprises clean 
site run-off water collected in 
purpose built storages, and 
water that has been treated by 
the Brine Concentrator or water 
treatment plants to a quality 
suitable for release;

•  water treatment plant permeate 
is pond water that has been 
treated via ERA’s micro filtration 
and reverse osmosis treatment 
plants. Permeate is release 
quality water and is either 
irrigated on designated land 
application areas during the dry 
season, or released during the 
wet season; and

•  Brine Concentrator distillate is 
process water which has been 
treated by the Brine Concentrator. 
This distillate is of extremely high 
quality and like water treatment 
plant permeate is considered 
release quality water.

BRINE CONCENTRATOR
Construction of the $220 
million Brine Concentrator was 
completed in 2013. Process water 
is heated to high temperatures 
in the Brine Concentrator and 
water that evaporates is cooled, 
condensed and discharged as high 
quality, clean distilled water (see 
Operations, page 14).

Waste heat from the cooling circuit 
is used to pre-heat process water 
entering the Brine Concentrator to 
reduce energy consumption.

With a potential maximum 
production of up to 1.83 billion 
litres of distillate per year, the Brine 
Concentrator provides ERA with the 
ability to manage the process water 
inventories and manage the impacts 
of heavy rainfall events.

This flexibility and control in 
process water management will 
play a key role in ERA’s progressive 
rehabilitation activities.

During 2014 all distillate produced 
met with the design specifications 
for the Brine Concentrator. Veolia 
Water Australia operates the Brine 
Concentrator on an “operate and 
maintain” basis on behalf of ERA.

The distillate is either discharged 
to ERA’s constructed wetlands, 
or irrigated onto land application 
areas.

WATER MONITORING
ERA’s comprehensive water 
monitoring system comprises over 
200 groundwater bores across 
the Ranger operational area and 
13 continuous real-time water 
quality sensing stations within local 
waterways.

The water monitoring system helps 
ensure that water is managed 
in accordance with ERA’s Water 
Management Plan, meets regulatory 
requirements and provides 
assurance to stakeholders through 
the provision of accurate data.

The continuous real-time water 
quality sensing stations are located 
within the Magela and Gulungul 
creek systems, upstream and 
downstream of the Ranger mine.

In addition, there is an extensive 
network of continuous real-time 
monitoring stations throughout 
ERA’s operational areas, 
which assists with day-to-day 
management of water inventories 
and treatment processes.

Data from the water monitoring 
system provides accurate details of 
composition and flow rate changes 
in surface water, ground water and 
waterways.

This data is shared with members of 
the Minesite Technical Committee, 
including the Supervising Scientist, 
and results are also available to the 
public on ERA’s website  
www.energyres.com.au.

The Supervising Scientist also 
conducts independent monitoring 
of waters upstream and 
downstream of the Ranger mine 
site. The results are published on its 
website: www.environment.gov.au/
ssd/index.htm.

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ENVIRONMENT

The monitoring stations are 
equipped with auto samplers that 
collect water samples triggered by 
in-stream events.

The Supervising Scientist Annual 
Report 2013-2014 states that 
the “water qualities measured in 
Magela and Gulungul Creeks for 
the 2013–14 wet season were 
comparable with previous wet 
seasons, with the results indicating 
that the aquatic environment in the 
creek has remained protected from 
mining activities”.

INDEPENDENT SURFACE WATER 
WORKING GROUP
In 2012 an Independent Surface 
Water Working Group (ISWWG) 
was established by ERA and the 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation 
to undertake an independent 
expert review of the surface water 
management, monitoring, and 
compliance systems associated with 
release of water from the Ranger 
mine site.

The ISWWG consisted of 
representatives from ERA, the 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation, 
the Supervising Scientist and the 
Northern Land Council (NLC). 
Professor Barry Hart (Water Science 
Pty Ltd and Monash University) 
was appointed as the Independent 
Chair and Professor Mark Taylor 
(Macquarie University) as an 
Independent Science Advisor.

The ISWWG considered:
•  surface water management and 

releases;

•  existing monitoring practices, 
compliance framework and 
management responses in 
relation to surface waters;
•  downstream monitoring to 
provide confidence that the 
environment is being protected; 
and

•  the integrity, reporting, and 
access to relevant data.

The outcome of the report and 
the consensus agreed between 
the parties delivered a watershed 
agreement.

The main findings of the ISWWG 
were that the current Ranger mine 
surface water management and 
regulatory systems are of a very 
high standard, and that an agreed 
action plan was desirable to ensure 
that the existing standard was 
maintained.

A technical working group was 
established as a sub-group of 
the Ranger Minesite Technical 
Committee in February 2013 
to review and implement the 
technical and regulatory aspects 
of relevant recommendations. 

This group is also the forum for 
reporting to stakeholders on the 
progress in addressing the ISWWG 
recommendations.

Of the 15 recommendations:
•  Nine have been addressed 
and those that are ongoing 
are being embedded into 
management plans or existing 
review processes. These are 
the recommendations on ERA 
water monitoring, reporting and 
management and staff training, 
as well as two recommendations 
on the Supervising Scientist’s 
monitoring program.
•  Five recommendations 
are in progress. Three 
recommendations relating to 
the updating of the compliance 
monitoring program are 
nearing completion and two 
recommendations regarding the 
review and reintroduction of 
past sediment and bushtucker 
monitoring are advanced and in 
final discussions.

•  One recommendation 

regarding the updating of 
the Ranger Authorisation is 
awaiting completion of other 
recommendations.

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LAND

Land

REHABILITATION PROGRESSING AT JABILUKA
The rehabilitation of the land on the Jabiluka Mineral 
Lease previously occupied by the Interim Water 
Management Pond continued throughout 2014.

Following the dismantling of the 
pond and the removal of the pond 
liner in 2013, the pond location 
and surrounding areas have been 
revegetated with species endemic to 
the surrounding environment.

These works are part of ERA’s 
ongoing rehabilitation program and 
have involved input from the Mirarr 
Traditional Owners to ensure that 
the land is rehabilitated in a culturally 
appropriate manner.

During 2014 visits to the site were 
undertaken by representatives of 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation 
and the Northern Land Council with 
video and photographs taken at each 
visit to share with the Mirarr Traditional 
Owners who provide cultural advice on 
different aspects of the project.

Site surveys confirm that around 48 
per cent of the 3,585 locally native 
tubestock seedlings planted in 2013 
survived the dry season and are now 
well established.

Given the harsh conditions experienced 
through the dry season this is regarded 
as a satisfactory survival rate.

This year a further 4,679 tubestock 
seedlings were planted on the site 
in November and December to 
complete the revegetation, with weed 
management activities undertaken to 
ensure recently disturbed areas remain 
weed-free.

Plants selected for the revegetation 
program are propagated by the 
Indigenous owned and operated 
Kakadu Native Plants nursery, and 
grown from hand collected seeds.

Revegetation techniques used at the 
Jabiluka site are based on successful 
management strategies developed 
through ERA’s long term trial landform 
project which covers an eight hectare 
site at Ranger.

WEED MANAGEMENT
ERA carries out regular weed control 
activities on the Ranger Project Area 
and Jabiluka Mineral Lease. Activities 
are guided by ERA’s weed management 
program which targets 13 priority 
species including Annual Pennisetum, 
Mission Grass and Rattlepod.

The weed season runs from October 
to May. During the 2013-2014 weed 
season new initiatives included the use 
of residual herbicide which eliminates 
the surface weed and binds to soil 
particles to prevent weed germination 
over an extended period.

Annual weed monitoring shows 
that ERA’s program has resulted in 
a reduction of 29 hectares of weed 
infestation in 2013-2014, which is a 
42 per cent reduction over the Ranger 
Project Area.

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LAND

(cid:83)  The Jabiluka Interim Water 

Management Pond

(cid:88)  The site at completion of 
the revegetation program

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LAND

The revegetation program at Jabiluka was 
completed with more than 8,000 native 
seedlings planted. The plants were grown from 
hand collected seeds.

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EMPLOYMENT

Employment

ERA’s preparation for proposed underground mining 
operations saw a further 25 per cent reduction in 
workforce numbers during 2014.

The completion of the Pit 3 initial 
backfill has reduced mining 
operational requirements and the 
continuation of the ERA Business 
Review cost saving program continued 
to rationalise contractor use.

A highly successful redeployment 
programme over the last two 
years has helped over 70 affected 
employees successfully find 
employment elsewhere in Rio Tinto 
Group operations.

As at 31 December 2014, ERA’s total 
workforce was 415 people, comprising 
390 staff and 25 contractor positions 
across a range of full-time, part-time 
and secondment arrangements.

This compares with 519 full-time 
equivalent positions at the same time 
last year, and 639 at the end of 2012.

A significant portion of workforce 
reductions was associated with the 
mining workforce, which reduced 
from 140 to 55 in 2014.

ERA also directly employed nine 
apprentices, three school-based 
apprentices, and three Indigenous 
trainees.

At year end Indigenous employment 
was approximately 12 per cent of 
employees (2013: 16 per cent).  
ERA has a target of 20 per cent 
Indigenous employment, however 
the closure of Pit 3 and the 
completion of the initial backfill 
project has contributed to a decline in 
employment opportunities associated 
with mining activities.

(cid:84)  Members of the Ranger 3 Deeps 

Exploration Decline team

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EMPLOYMENT

ERA’s female employment 
participation also remained steady 
during 2014 at 18 per cent of 
employees (2013: 18 per cent). 
ERA also provides flexible work 
arrangements for employees 
to help balance work and life 
commitments.

The average rolling staff turnover 
in 2014 was 38.61 per cent 
(2013: 29.25 per cent), in part 
reflecting changes to mining 
workforce needs.

INDIGENOUS EMPLOYMENT
As a major employer in Jabiru 
and the West Arnhem region ERA 
has a strong focus on Indigenous 
employment.

ERA’s Indigenous employees are 
employed in positions at many 
levels within the Company, from 
operations to human resources to 
leadership roles.

At 31 December 2014, there were 
a total of 47 Indigenous employees, 
representing 12 per cent of 
employees (2013: 16 per cent).

ERA employed three Indigenous 
trainees in 2014. Indigenous 
trainees are paired with workplace 
mentors. The Mentoring Program 
for Indigenous trainees is part of 
ERA’s Indigenous Employment 
Strategy. It includes flexible work 
arrangements, workplace literacy 
and numeracy training and support 
for students from local communities 
in work experience and school-
based apprenticeships.

Looking ahead, ERA’s Indigenous 
employment focus will continue to 
be on retention.

INDIGENOUS ENTERPRISE 
DEVELOPMENT

During 2014 ERA continued to work 
with the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation and local businesses as 
part of a new Indigenous Enterprise 
Development Scheme introduced 
in 2013.

The program also identifies 
potential employment needs among 
local businesses.

This year’s participants successfully 
completed the program and gained 
nationally recognised accreditation 
through a Certificate II in Resource 
Infrastructure: Work Preparation.

The scheme seeks to identify and 
develop employment and training 
opportunities for members of local 
Indigenous communities.

As an example, local people have 
an opportunity to participate 
in an Indigenous Revegetation 
Workforce, which can be engaged 
to carry out regional revegetation 
activities, such as progressive 
rehabilitation activities at ERA, 
weed management, and fire 
monitoring.

As part of Indigenous Revegetation 
Workforce training, the trainees 
will be working towards nationally 
recognised skills accreditation 
through a Certificate III in Land 
Management.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
Local businesses, training providers 
and ERA continued to support the 
Pre-employment Program, designed 
to assist school leavers and other 
local people seeking to enter the 
workforce or find new employment.

In 2014 eight women participated 
in the Pre-employment Program, 
seeking to develop skills to support 
plans to work within Kakadu 
National Park or the local tourism 
and hospitality industry.

The program helps local people 
develop additional skills needed 
to get a job, such as getting a 
driver’s licence, learning first aid, 
or developing experience with 
common work-related equipment.

EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP
In 2014 ERA continued working 
with the West Arnhem College 
on the award winning Education 
Partnership.

West Arnhem College was 
established in 2010 and is made up 
of two school communities – Jabiru 
Area School, which is located on 
Mirarr land in Kakadu National Park, 
and Gunbalanya School, located 
in West Arnhem Land across the 
East Alligator River in the Northern 
Territory.

The Education Partnership provides 
quality education and training 
opportunities which lead to real 
employment and career options for 
students and families in the West 
Arnhem region.

It provides an integrated program 
of activities to build capacity in the 
local economy, support sustainable 
regional development, and improve 
education and employment 
outcomes for local community 
members.

This includes opportunities for  
work experience placements and  
school-based apprentices at ERA, 
visits to ERA by teachers and 
students, school presentations from 
ERA employees, and support for 
school-based education programs 
involving resource industry 
development.

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EMPLOYMENT

In 2014 the partnership focused 
on two main areas of cooperation 
which were supporting the 
curriculum outcomes at the schools 
and providing opportunities for 
applied learning. Highlights have 
included a total of seven tailored 
school-based apprenticeships and 
traineeships and the largest number 
of indigenous students to date.

The program has enabled students 
to obtain Certificate II qualifications 
while still enrolled in school at the 
West Arnhem College. 

(cid:84)  School-based apprentices Brock Hope, 
Daniel De Vreede and Blake Hughes

CULTURAL AWARENESS
New employees and contractors 
working at ERA are introduced to 
the unique cultural, environmental 
and historical vales of the Kakadu 
region and the Mirarr Traditional 
Owners through ERA’s Cultural 
Awareness Program.

The program is an important 
element of ERA’s induction 
processes and ensures that new 
arrivals to the business are able to 
develop a greater understanding 
of the context and culture in which 
they operate, and to develop 
understanding and respect for local 
communities and culture.

This program is particularly 
important with the anticipated 
increase in the use of contract fly-in 
fly-out workers associated with 
the proposed underground mining 
operation.

The program is delivered in 
partnership with the Gundjeihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation 
representing the Mirarr Traditional 
Owners. During the year 46 
new employees and long-term 
contractors participated in cultural 
awareness training.

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COMMUNITY

Community

ERA is an important and active part of the local 
community, and makes a significant contribution to the 
regional and Northern Territory economies.

In particular, ERA makes a major 
contribution to Jabiru, one of the 
largest regional centres within the 
Northern Territory.

Through its community relations 
program ERA engages with a 
wide range of organisations, 
community groups and government 
agencies across a broad range of 
issues, including cultural heritage, 
education, employment and funding 
opportunities.

In 2014, ERA spent more than 
$120,000 on partnerships and 
sponsorships, providing support for 
local schools and students, sport, the 
arts, regional festivals, local business, 
and community health and child care.

RELATIONSHIP WITH MIRARR 
TRADITIONAL OWNERS
The Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation represents the Mirarr 
Traditional Owners in discussions and 
negotiations with ERA on a range of 
matters of interest to both parties.

These discussions and negotiations 
encompass matters such as water 
management, cultural heritage 
and environmental protection, 
employment and training, housing 
and town planning, involvement in 
decision making processes, royalties, 
and the future of mining at Ranger.

The Mirarr Traditional Owners were 
represented via the Gundjeihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation on the 
taskforce established by Northern 
Territory and Australian Governments 
to oversee the regulatory response 
to the failure of Leach Tank 1 (see 
Operations, page 14).

ERA recognises that the failure of the 
leach tank in December 2013 was of 
great concern to the Mirarr Traditional 
Owners and appreciates their 
continued dialogue, participation and 
input into the clean-up and recovery 
operation.

(cid:84)    ERA continued its sponsorship  
of the Kakadu Triathlon in 2014 

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A number of formal structures 
are in place to ensure that the 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation 
and ERA are able to meet 
regularly, share information and 
create opportunities for ongoing 
engagement and collaboration.

During 2014, the newly formed 
Relationship Committee met 
on a regular basis to promote 
information sharing and 
collaboration, and reach agreement 
on opportunities for increasing 
local Aboriginal participation in 
business development, training and 
employment.

In addition, the Gundjeihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation and ERA are 
represented on the Kakadu West 
Arnhem Social Trust (KWAST) and 
contribute funds on an annual basis. 
KWAST was founded in February 
2013 as a charitable trust by Yvonne 
Margarula, senior Mirarr Traditional 
Owner, to share some of the royalty 
payments flowing from the Ranger 
mine to address the disadvantage 
of Indigenous people in the Kakadu 
region. A particular focus is on 
achieving a long-term reduction 
in systemic intergenerational 
disadvantage.

The multi-million dollar trust is 
supporting initiatives that deliver 
long-term, positive benefit to the 
local community, such as Children’s 
Ground, which is delivering 
culturally appropriate education, 
health and allied support services 
in Jabiru and outstations across 
Kakadu. Other projects supported 
by KWAST include the Culture 
First Program at Jabiru Area School 

which engages students with 
culturally sensitive learning and the 
continuation of support for the 
Gunbang Action Group’s alcohol 
management coordination program.

The Mirarr Traditional Owners 
are also represented via the 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation 
on the Closure Criteria Committee 
Working Group and the Ranger 
Minesite Technical Committee, 
and are participating in 
rehabilitation planning, including 
the rehabilitation and revegetation 
of the site of the former Jabiluka 
Interim Water Management Pond 
(see Land, page 45).

ERA and the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation continue to collaborate 
on town governance, housing, local 
and Northern Territory Government 
engagement, infrastructure and 
local business development.

ROYALTY PAYMENTS
ERA’s royalty payments are a major 
source of income for the Indigenous 
community and the Northern 
Territory Government.

ERA makes royalty payments of 
5.5 per cent of net sales revenue 
from Ranger mine production. 
The equivalent of 4.25 per cent 
of Ranger sales revenue is paid to 
Northern Territory based Aboriginal 
organisations, including the 
Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation. 
A further 1.25 per cent of Ranger 
sales revenue is paid to the 
Commonwealth and distributed to 
the Northern Territory Government.

In 2014, ERA’s royalties totalled 
$15.4 million (2013: $18.4 million). 

As ERA is now processing low 
grade ore stockpile, under the 
current operating agreements 
and legislative framework, royalty 
payments will continue to decline 
in line with forecast production 
rates, unless the Ranger 3 Deeps 
underground mine is developed.

COLLABORATION ON FUTURE  
OF JABIRU
ERA supports efforts to recognise 
the Mirarr as traditional landowners 
of the long-running Jabiru native 
title claim area, which includes the 
land on which the town of Jabiru is 
located.

Legislation that allows for the 
inclusion of Jabiru and surrounding 
lands in Schedule 1 of the Land 
Rights Act (Northern Territory) 
1976 has been introduced into the 
Commonwealth Parliament.

This is a significant step towards 
formal recognition of Mirarr title 
to land, which is central to the 
governance arrangements and long 
term future for Jabiru.

ERA will continue to support 
the finalisation of arrangements 
required to transfer these lands 
from the Commonwealth to the 
Kakadu Aboriginal Lands Trust.

This includes agreement on 
the detail of a new town lease 
between the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal 
Corporation and the Northern 
Territory Government.

While the legislative framework 
is in place, the detail of the lease 
arrangement between the Northern 
Territory Government and the 
Traditional Owners is still being 
negotiated.

(cid:88) Superintendent Water Management, 
Ben McTavish, is part of ERA’s Health 
Safety and Environment team

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COMMUNITY

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SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
ERA engages with a wide range 
of stakeholders and community 
groups within the local Jabiru 
community and in other parts of 
the Northern Territory.

This engagement is designed to 
provide members of the public, 
community groups and other 
stakeholders with an opportunity to 
learn about and understand ERA’s 
operations.

In addition ERA’s community 
engagement provides support to 
help protect and promote cultural 
heritage, community health, 
small business development, 
including indigenous business, 
and educational and sporting 
opportunities for young people.

During 2014 ERA maintained a local 
presence at the ERA Community 
Office in Jabiru, provided formal 
quarterly business updates with 
key stakeholders and community 
groups in Jabiru and held four 
community information days.

RANGER 3 DEEPS SOCIAL IMPACT 
ASSESSMENT
The Ranger 3 Deeps Social Impact 
Assessment (SIA) examined the 
flow-on effects of an underground 
mining operation on stakeholders 
in the local Jabiru community, and 
in the wider Alligator Rivers Region. 
It also assessed impacts across 
the Northern Territory and at the 
national level.

As part of the draft Environmental 
Impact Statement (see Future 
Supply, page 22), the assessment 
identified potential positive and 
negative social impacts of the 
proposed underground mine. Areas 
considered included governance, 
equity in benefits, future planning 
and cultural heritage.

The SIA found that the proposed 
underground mining operation “has 
the potential for both positive and 
negative impacts, but overall, has 
greater potential to realise positive 
social outcomes”.

Benefits included:
•  180 – 280 new jobs;
•  maintaining economic 

contribution (directly and 
indirectly);

•  supplementary production 

delivering additional revenue;
•  support to local and regional 

business; and

•  maintaining Jabiru population, 

maintaining services 
infrastructure and community 
programs.

Risks included:
•  additional fly in fly out 

employees creating further 
demand on health services;
•  perceptions of health and well-
being impacts leading to stress, 
such as from concerns over 
water management or worker 
health; and

•  continuation or worsening of 

existing negative impacts such 
as issues linked to mine revenue 
(royalties) and social cohesion, 
and the well-being of Mirarr 
Traditional Owners.

ERA proposes to maximise the 
opportunities presented and 
manage potential risks through a 
Social Impact Management Plan.

The SIA has been provided to the 
Commonwealth and Northern 
Territory governments, and made 
publicly available as part of the draft 
Environmental Impact Statement 
documents seeking approval for the 
proposed underground mine.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

55

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
ERA’s community partnership and 
sponsorship program provides 
support for local community-based 
events, schools and students, sport, 
the arts and regional festivals.

The Mahbilil Festival celebrates 
the diversity of the region 
through music, dance, art and 
entertainment. ERA was involved as 
a major sponsor and also through 
its community information stall.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT
In 2014 ERA supported the Kakadu 
Triathlon in Jabiru in May and 
continued its sponsorship of the 
National Indigenous Music Awards 
in August.

A feature of community information 
provided this year included details 
about ERA’s proposals for an 
underground mine, including 
the promotion of opportunity 
to comment on the draft 
Environmental Impact Statement.

The National Indigenous Music 
Awards celebrate traditional 
and contemporary artists from 
around the country, with female 
artist Jessica Mauboy taking out 
consecutive National Artist of the 
Year awards.

Over 107 people took part in 
the successful Kakadu Triathlon, 
organised by ERA and Darwin 
Triathlon as a fundraiser for 
CareFlight. Raising more than 
$8,000, the triathlon involved 
a 10 kilometre bike ride, a 2.5 
kilometre run, and a 250 metre 
swim in the Jabiru town pool. The 
Kakadu Triathlon was named as 
Community Event of the Year in the 
2014 Australia Day Awards.

ERA was one of 27 triathlon 
sponsors, along with West Arnhem 
Regional Council, West Arnhem 
College, Veolia Water, Spotless, 
Jabiru Fire Station and Northern 
Territory Police.

COMMUNITY INFORMATION 
DAYS AND MINE TOURS
During 2014 ERA held four 
Community Information Days and 
a series of organised site visits, 
providing an opportunity for over 
600 local community members, 
tourists and other groups to visit 
Ranger mine.

The information days involve setting 
up a free barbecue and information 
stall in Jabiru for the day, and 
running regular tours out to the 
mine site.

ERA staff explained the mine’s 
operations, work being done to 
protect the environment, and 
also discussed ERA’s underground 
mining proposals and opportunities 
to have input into the draft 
Environmental Impact Statement.

The positive response, particularly 
in relation to ERA’s operations, 
revealed a genuine interest among 
many members of the public to 
learn about ERA.

This support is delivered in a 
variety of ways including direct 
funding, community partnerships, 
in-kind support and donations of 
equipment and resources.

ERA sponsors the George 
Chaloupka Fellowship program, 
which supports research and 
conservation of Aboriginal rock art 
located in Arnhem Land Plateau 
region in the Northern Territory, 
with the fifth Fellow recently 
commencing.

The $28,000 Fellowship was 
awarded to Australian National 
University PhD graduate, Dr Ian 
Moffat, whose research project 
involves use of geophysical analysis 
techniques to locate, record and 
date rock art.

The George Chaloupka Fellowship 
is run by the Museum and Art 
Gallery of the Northern Territory 
Foundation.

Previous recipients have increased 
knowledge and understanding of 
significant Aboriginal rock art sites 
across the Arnhem Land Plateau, 
including the Jawoyn site Little 
Barra, the East Alligator River, and 
the Main Gallery of Deaf Adder 
Creek, near Nourlangie Rock.

ERA continued its long-running 
support for the principal community 
and cultural event for Jabiru and the 
West Arnhem region, the popular 
Mahbilil Festival held in Jabiru in 
September.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

56

Financial 
Report 2014

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

 
57

 CONTENTS

Contents

Director’s Report ........................................................................................................ 58

Auditor’s Independence Declaration ........................................................................... 84

Corporate Governance Statement ............................................................................... 85

Statement of Comprehensive Income .......................................................................... 90

Balance Sheet ............................................................................................................. 91

Statement of Changes in Equity .................................................................................. 92

Cash Flow Statement .................................................................................................. 93

Notes to the Financial Statements ............................................................................... 94

Directors’ Declaration ............................................................................................... 127

Independent Auditor’s Report ................................................................................... 128

Shareholder Information ........................................................................................... 130

2014 ASX Announcements ....................................................................................... 132

Ten Year Performance ............................................................................................... 133

Index ........................................................................................................................ 134

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

58

 DIRECTORS

Director’s Report

Directors

Mr Peter McMahon
CHAIRMAN
BEcon(Hons), MEcon, MSc 

Ms Andrea Sutton
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
BE (Hons) Chemical, 
GradDipEcon, GAICD

Mr Bruce Cox
NON-EXECUTIVE 
DIRECTOR
BCom, CPA, MBA, GAICD

Appointed as a Director 
in November 2012 and 
Chairman in January 2013. 
Member of the Audit 
and Risk Committee and 
Remuneration Committee. 
Mr McMahon has been the 
principal of an independent 
advisory business, 
McMahon Advisory Pty 
Ltd, since 2010. Prior to 
this time, Mr McMahon 
spent 30 years with the 
Rio Tinto Group in senior 
commercial roles with 
emphasis on business and 
project development in 
Australia, UK, USA and 
Europe. Mr McMahon was 
a non-executive Director 
and Chairman of Inova 
Resources Limited until 
November 2013.

Appointed as Managing 
Director in September 
2013 and Chief Executive 
in September 2013. Ms 
Sutton brings extensive 
operational, technical and 
corporate experience to 
ERA from her 20 years 
with Rio Tinto. Ms Sutton 
was previously Managing 
Director with the Rio Tinto 
Support Strategy Review 
team. Prior to that, Ms 
Sutton held various roles 
within the Rio Tinto Group 
including General Manager 
Operations at the Bengalla 
Mine and General Manager 
Infrastructure with Rio Tinto 
Iron Ore.

Appointed as a Director in 
November 2014. Mr Cox is 
currently the President and 
Chief Executive Officer of 
Pacific Aluminium and is a 
member of Rio Tinto Alcan’s 
Executive Committee. Mr 
Cox has more than 33 years’ 
experience with Rio Tinto and 
BHP, and prior to his current 
role was Managing Director 
of Rio Tinto Diamonds.  
Mr Cox’s career has spanned 
the steel, platinum, copper, 
iron ore and diamond 
commodity sectors and 
he has lived in Australia, 
Zimbabwe, Chile, the United 
Kingdom and the United 
States. Mr Cox is a CPA, 
Graduate of the Australian 
Institute of Company 
Directors and has a Bachelor 
of Commerce and Masters of 
Business Administration.

Ms Joanne Farrell
NON-EXECUTIVE 
DIRECTOR
BSc, Grad Dip Business 
Management

Appointed as a Director 
in June 2014. Ms Farrell is 
currently the Global Head of 
Health, Safety, Environment 
and Communities (HSEC) 
for Rio Tinto and is 
responsible for leading 
the team that provides 
policy, standards guidance 
and governance of HSEC 
matters for the Rio Tinto 
group of companies.  
Ms Farrell has held a 
number of roles in 27 years 
with Rio Tinto, including in 
the Iron Ore, Aluminium, 
Diamonds, Exploration and 
Energy groups. She brings 
extensive experience in 
HSEC, human resources, 
organisational effectiveness, 
communications and 
external relations.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

59

 DIRECTORS

Directors

Dr Helen Garnett
INDEPENDENT NON-
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
BSc(Hons), PhD, PSM, FTSE, FAICD

Mr Peter Taylor
NON-EXECUTIVE 
DIRECTOR
BA, BSc, LLB, LLM, FAICD

Mr John Pegler
INDEPENDENT NON-
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
BE (Mining), MAusIMM, MAICD

Mrs Helen Newell
NON-EXECUTIVE 
DIRECTOR
BCom (Hons), MBA, GAICD

Appointed as a Director 
in November 2012. Mrs 
Newell resigned as a 
Director in June 2014. 
Mrs Newell is currently 
Global Head of Risk, Rio 
Tinto, having previously 
held the role of Vice 
President Infrastructure and 
Transformation, Rio Tinto 
Energy. Prior to joining the 
Rio Tinto Group in May 
2011, Mrs Newell spent 
20 years in the transport 
and infrastructure industry 
in Australia and North 
America, with Booz Allen 
& Hamilton, the Toll Group 
and Asciano. 

Appointed as a Director in 
February 2007. A lawyer 
in private practice before 
joining Rio Tinto, Mr Taylor 
has held a number of 
executive and management 
positions in the exploration, 
project development, 
commercial and legal 
operations of the Rio Tinto 
Group. Mr Taylor has served 
as Managing Director and 
Chairman of Bougainville 
Copper Limited since 21 
October 2003, having been 
a Director since April 1997.  
Mr Taylor is also a director 
of a number of unlisted Rio 
Tinto Group companies.

Appointed as a Director in 
July 2009. Member of the 
Audit and Risk Committee 
and Chair of Remuneration 
Committee. Mr Pegler also 
is a non-executive Director 
of WDS Ltd and CS Energy 
Limited. He is a former 
Director and Chairman of 
Bandanna Energy Limited, 
a Past President and a Life 
Member of the Queensland 
Resources Council and 
a past Chairman and 
Director of the Australian 
Coal Association Ltd. 
Mr Pegler formerly was 
Chief Executive Officer 
of Ensham Resources Pty 
Limited and previously 
has held operational roles 
within BP Australia Limited 
and the Rio Tinto Group 
including President Director 
of major gold producer 
PT Kelian Equatorial 
Mining in Indonesia and 
Managing Director Group 
Procurement Eastern 
Hemisphere.

Appointed as a Director 
in January 2005. Chair 
of the Audit and Risk 
Committee and member of 
Remuneration Committee. 
From 2003 to 2008, Dr 
Garnett was Vice Chancellor 
of Charles Darwin University 
in the Northern Territory. 
Between 1994 and 2003, 
Dr Garnett served as the 
Executive Director of the 
Australian Nuclear Science 
and Technology Organisation 
(ANSTO) and as an Australian 
representative to the United 
Nations International Atomic 
Energy Agency. Dr Garnett 
is an Emeritus Professor of 
the University of Wollongong 
and of Charles Darwin 
University, a Fellow of the 
Academy of Technological 
Sciences and Engineering and 
a Fellow of the Australian 
Institute of Company 
Directors. Dr Garnett is 
currently the Chair of Delta 
Electricity, a non-executive 
Director of Carbon Energy 
Limited, a non-executive 
director of ABM Resources 
NL, Chair of the Australian 
Centre for Plant Functional 
Genomics, Chair of the 
Museum and Art Gallery, NT 
Foundation, and Director of 
Sugar Research Australia.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

60

 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Executive Committee

Ms Andrea Sutton
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
BE (Hons) Chemical, 
GradDipEcon, GAICD

Mr James May
CHIEF FINANCIAL 
OFFICER
BA (Hons) FCA

Mr Steeve Thibeault
CHIEF FINANCIAL 
OFFICER AND COMPANY 
SECRETARY
BA (Accounting, Finance)

Mr Tim Eckersley
GENERAL MANAGER, 
OPERATIONS
B.Sc. Agric (Hons)

Appointed as Managing 
Director in September 
2013 and Chief Executive 
in September 2013. Ms 
Sutton brings extensive 
operational, technical and 
corporate experience to 
ERA from her 20 years 
with Rio Tinto. Ms Sutton 
was previously Managing 
Director with the Rio Tinto 
Support Strategy Review 
team. Prior to that, Ms 
Sutton held various roles 
within the Rio Tinto Group 
including General Manager 
Operations at the Bengalla 
Mine and General Manager 
Infrastructure with Rio Tinto 
Iron Ore.

Mr May was appointed 
as Chief Financial Officer 
in June 2014 and brings 
financial, accounting and 
business development 
experience to ERA.  Mr 
May has over 14 years’ 
experience in finance 
roles in the energy and 
extractive resources sector.  
Prior to joining ERA, Mr 
May held various finance 
and corporate roles within 
Rio Tinto.

Mr May is a Chartered 
Accountant through the 
Institute of Chartered 
Accountants in England  
and Wales.

Mr Thibeault was 
appointed as Chief 
Financial Officer in July 
2009 and Company 
Secretary in 2009. He 
resigned from both 
positions on 30 May 2014. 
Mr Thibeault has over 32 
years’ experience in the 
mining and manufacturing 
industries and previously 
held diverse senior finance 
roles with Rio Tinto Alcan 
and Alcan Aluminium 
Limited.

Mr Eckersley was appointed 
as General Manager 
Operations in September 
2012. Over the last 21 
years Mr Eckersley has 
held various leadership 
roles in the mining industry 
including in bauxite, 
alumina, gold, mineral sands 
and iron ore. Prior to joining 
ERA, Mr Eckersley was 
General Manager within Rio 
Tinto Iron Ore Expansion 
Projects business unit.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

61

 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Executive Committee

Dr Greg Sinclair
GENERAL MANAGER, 
TECHNICAL AND MAJOR 
STUDIES
BAppSc (Chemistry), PhD, 
FAusIMM

Dr Sinclair was appointed as 
General Manager Technical 
and Major Studies in May 
2007. Dr Sinclair has over 
29 years’ experience in the 
resources sector and has 
formerly held roles with 
the Iron Ore Company of 
Canada, Rio Tinto Technical 
Services & HSE Groups, 
North Limited and the 
Australian Nuclear Science 
& Technology Organisation.

Mr Alan Tietzel
CHIEF ADVISOR 
AGREEMENTS
BA, BCom, Dip Ed MBA

Mr Thomas Wilcox
COMPANY SECRETARY 
AND LEGAL COUNSEL

LLB, BCom

Mr Wilcox was appointed 
as joint Company Secretary 
and Legal Counsel in 
November 2013. Mr Wilcox 
joined Rio Tinto in 2009 
and previously served as 
legal counsel in London 
and Melbourne with Rio 
Tinto Exploration. Prior to 
joining the Rio Tinto Group, 
Mr Wilcox was employed  
in private legal practice 
since 2003.

Mr Tietzel was appointed as 
General Manager External 
Relations in July 2010 
and subsequently Chief 
Advisor Agreements in 
September 2012. He has a 
background in Aboriginal 
land agreements, regional 
development, government 
relations, human resources 
and organisation 
development. Mr Tietzel 
joined Rio Tinto in 1990. 
He has worked in the 
diamonds, salt, bauxite 
and alumina sectors, and in 
various corporate functions.

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

62

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Meetings of Directors

The number of Directors’ and committee meetings held and the number of meetings attended by each of the Directors of the Company 
during the financial year is shown below:

DIRECTORS MEETINGS

AUDIT AND RISK 
COMMITTEE MEETINGS

REMUNERATION 
COMMITTEE MEETINGS

OTHER COMMITTEE 
MEETINGS

HELD ATTENDED

HELD ATTENDED

HELD ATTENDED

HELD ATTENDED

13

13

13

13

13

6

7

1

13

12

13

11

13

5

7

1

4

4

-

-

4

-

-

-

4

4

-

-

4

-

-

-

3

3

-

-

3

-

-

-

3

3

-

-

3

-

-

-

2

2

1

-

1

-

-

-

2

2

1

-

1

-

-

-

DIRECTOR

P McMahon

H Garnett

A Sutton

P Taylor

J Pegler

H Newell1

J Farrell2

B Cox3

Note 1  
Note 2 
Note 3  

Resigned as a Director on 11 June 2014.
Appointed as a Director on 11 June 2014. 
Appointed as a Director on 27 November 2014. 

Ms Sutton was invited to Audit and Risk Committee meetings and attended all such meetings held during the year.

Interests of Directors

The interests of each Director in the share capital of the Company and its related body corporates as at 31 January 2015 are shown 
below: 

ENERGY RESOURCES 
OF AUSTRALIA LTD 
ORDINARY SHARES

42,500

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

RIO TINTO LIMITED 
ORDINARY SHARES

RIO TINTO LIMITED 
OPTIONS IN 
ORDINARY SHARES

RIO TINTO LIMITED 
CONDITIONAL 
INTERESTS IN 
ORDINARY SHARES

18,405

-

9,211

35,007

6,331

19,430

5,395

33,078

-

-

2,888

7,343

-

8,090

8,111

-

-

-

9,731

12,939

-

29,302

39,189

-

DIRECTORS

P McMahon

H Garnett

A Sutton

P Taylor

J Pegler

J Farrell

B Cox

D Smith1

Note 1  

Appointed as a Director on 27 January 2015.

62

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

 
63

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Remuneration report

The Remuneration Report is set out under the following main 
headings:

A. 
(cid:37). 

C. 
D. 
(cid:40). 
(cid:41). 
(cid:42). 

(cid:37)oard oversight of remuneration
(cid:51)rinciples used to determine non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors(cid:182)  
remuneration
(cid:51)rinciples used to determine e(cid:91)ecutive remuneration
Details of remuneration
(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive service agreements
Share based compensation
Additional information

The information provided in the Remuneration Report has been 
audited by the Company’s independent auditor as required by 
section 308(3C) of the Corporations Act 2001.

A 
(cid:37)oard oversight of remuneration
The Remuneration Committee has responsibility to review:
(cid:135) 

remuneration framework and policies (cid:11)including key 
performance indicators) for the Company’s senior 
e(cid:91)ecutives(cid:30)
remuneration and performance of the Company’s senior 
e(cid:91)ecutives(cid:30)
remuneration of the Company(cid:182)s non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive directors(cid:30) and
remuneration disclosures made by the Company.

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

The Remuneration Committee Charter is available at the 
Corporate (cid:42)overnance section of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s website. 

B 

Principles used to determine non- 
e(cid:91)ecutive Directors(cid:182) remuneration

(cid:41)ees and payments to non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors re(cid:192)ect the 
demands which are made on(cid:15) and the responsibilities of(cid:15) the 
non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors. The Remuneration Committee will 
review and make recommendations to the (cid:37)oard regarding non(cid:16)
e(cid:91)ecutive Directors(cid:182) remuneration. These fees are comprised 
of a base fee and any fees payable to non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors 
for their membership on established committees of the (cid:37)oard. 
(cid:40)RA does not pay retirement or post(cid:16)employment benefits to 
non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors(cid:15) however(cid:15) statutory superannuation 
contributions are paid to non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors. (cid:44)n addition(cid:15) 
from time to time(cid:15) the (cid:37)oard may approve that non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive 
Directors receive additional fees for services provided outside the 
established committee processes.

The following principles are applied in determining the 
remuneration of non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors:

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

the responsibilities of and time spent by the non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive 
Directors on the affairs of (cid:40)RA(cid:15) including preparation time(cid:30)
acknowledgement of the personal risk borne as a Director(cid:30)
comparison with professional market rates of remuneration 
to remain competitive with the market having regard to 

(cid:135) 

companies of similar si(cid:93)e and comple(cid:91)ity(cid:30) and
the desire to attract Directors of a high calibre with 
appropriate levels of e(cid:91)pertise and e(cid:91)perience.

At the 200(cid:27) Annual (cid:42)eneral Meeting(cid:15) shareholders resolved 
to amend the Constitution of the Company to provide that the 
aggregate remuneration for non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors of (cid:40)RA 
would be not more than (cid:7)(cid:27)00(cid:15)000 per annum.  At the 201(cid:23) 
Annual (cid:42)eneral Meeting(cid:15) the 2013 Remuneration Report was 
approved with (cid:28)1.2(cid:26) per cent of shareholders who cast a vote(cid:15) 
voting in favour (cid:11)voting comprised 3(cid:25)3(cid:15)(cid:27)3(cid:26)(cid:15)(cid:26)(cid:25)5 votes (cid:181)for(cid:182) the 
resolution and 3(cid:23)(cid:15)(cid:27)1(cid:25)(cid:15)512 votes (cid:181)against(cid:182) the resolution(cid:12). North 
(cid:47)imited and (cid:51)eko(cid:16)(cid:58)allsend (cid:51)ty (cid:47)td(cid:15) which are both Rio Tinto 
entities(cid:15) voted a combined total of 35(cid:23)(cid:15)0(cid:26)(cid:27)(cid:15)(cid:27)5(cid:23) votes (cid:181)for(cid:182) the 
resolution. The aggregate amount of non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors(cid:182) 
remuneration paid in 201(cid:23) was appro(cid:91)imately (cid:7)(cid:25)1(cid:27)(cid:15)000 inclusive 
of statutory superannuation. 

The non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors(cid:182) fees were reviewed by the (cid:37)oard 
in January 201(cid:23).  The (cid:37)oard resolved that there would be no 
increase in non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors(cid:182) fees or committee fees 
in 201(cid:23). The annual fees for non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors for 201(cid:23) 
(cid:11)e(cid:91)cluding superannuation(cid:12) are as follows:

Chairman   

(cid:7)1(cid:25)2(cid:15)000

 (cid:7)1(cid:25)2(cid:15)000

Non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Director

(cid:7)(cid:28)0(cid:15)000  

(cid:7)(cid:28)0(cid:15)000

2014

2013

Audit and Risk Committee 
Chair*

Audit and Risk Committee 
Member*

Remuneration Committee 
Chair*

(cid:7)20(cid:15)000

(cid:7)20(cid:15)000

(cid:7)13(cid:15)000

(cid:7)13(cid:15)000

(cid:7)5(cid:15)000

(cid:7)5(cid:15)000

* Fees are payable in addition to Chairman and non-executive Director fees.

The (cid:37)oard has resolved that no additional committee fees are 
payable to members of the Remuneration Committee (cid:11)other than 
the Remuneration Committee Chair(cid:12).

C 

(cid:51)rinciples used to determine e(cid:91)ecutive  
remuneration 

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for the review of(cid:15) 
and where appropriate will make recommendations to the (cid:37)oard 
in respect of(cid:15) e(cid:91)ecutive remuneration.

As the Company is a member company of the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) 
the Company generally implements the remuneration policies 
and procedures determined by the Rio Tinto Remuneration 
Committee and applied to senior management personnel across 
the wider Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) to determine the remuneration of the 
Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and other key management personnel of the 
Company (cid:11)together(cid:15) (cid:181)senior e(cid:91)ecutives(cid:182)(cid:12). 

As a member of the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup of companies(cid:15) (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s 

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

63

 
 
 
64

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

senior e(cid:91)ecutives are seconded from Rio Tinto and are hence 
drawn from the talented pool of e(cid:91)ecutives in the wider Rio Tinto 
(cid:42)roup. (cid:44)t is the view of the Remuneration Committee (cid:11)which has 
been endorsed by the (cid:37)oard(cid:12) that a company of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s si(cid:93)e(cid:15) 
scope and remote location would have significant difficulty in 
attracting e(cid:91)ecutives of the calibre necessary to ensure superior 
performance or in retaining them for significant periods if this 
arrangement was not in place. (cid:56)nder these circumstances(cid:15) 
the (cid:37)oard believes that the general application of the Rio Tinto 
remuneration framework to (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s senior e(cid:91)ecutives(cid:15) with 
appropriate review by the Company(cid:182)s Remuneration Committee(cid:15) 
is of benefit to (cid:40)RA. 

(cid:41)or the purposes of assessing the appropriate level of 
remuneration, the Australian resources sector is considered 
the most relevant comparator group. Additional references are 
also made to other relevant supplementary comparator groups 
comprising companies primarily from the AS(cid:59) 200. Typically(cid:15) 
base salaries are positioned at the median of these comparator 
groups(cid:15) while incentive plans are designed with the potential to 
deliver total remuneration outcomes across the full market range 
according to business and individual performance.

The related costs of these programmes are recognised in the 
Company(cid:182)s financial statements. (cid:41)or the purpose of disclosure 
under the Corporations Act 2001 and relevant Accounting 
Standards(cid:15) the (cid:179)key management personnel(cid:180) of the Company 
apart from the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and the non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors(cid:15) 
have been determined to be the permanent (cid:42)eneral Managers of 
the Company (cid:11)including the Chief Advisor Agreements(cid:12) reporting 
directly to the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive.  

(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive remuneration(cid:15) including base salary and short and long 
term incentive plan awards(cid:15) and other terms of employment are 
reviewed annually having regard to the evaluation of individual 
and business performance against goals set at the start of the 
year(cid:15) global economic conditions and relevant comparative 
information. As well as base salary(cid:15) remuneration packages may 
include fringe benefits such as medical insurance(cid:15) car(cid:15) rent and 
other allowances(cid:15) superannuation(cid:15) retirement entitlements and 
short and long term incentives. 

The annual performance evaluation and management process 
includes formal consultation between the Chairman (cid:11)based on 
the Remuneration Committee(cid:182)s review and recommendations(cid:12) 
and the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive of the Rio Tinto (cid:40)nergy (cid:51)roduct (cid:42)roup 
regarding the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive of the Company(cid:15) and between 
the Remuneration Committee and the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive of the 
Company regarding the other senior e(cid:91)ecutives. 

The e(cid:91)ecutive pay and reward framework is designed to provide 
a total remuneration package which is competitive in the market(cid:30) 
aligns total remuneration with delivered individual and short 
and long term business performance(cid:30) strikes an appropriate 
balance between fi(cid:91)ed and variable components(cid:30) links variable 
components to the achievement of challenging individual and 
business performance targets, and ensures the attraction, 
motivation and retention of the high calibre senior e(cid:91)ecutives 

re(cid:84)uired to lead the Company. 

The Company Secretary of the Company is subject to the same 
e(cid:91)ecutive remuneration pay and reward framework.
The e(cid:91)ecutive pay and reward framework has four components:

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

base salary and benefits(cid:30)
short term incentive plans(cid:30)
long term incentive plans through participation in the 
Rio Tinto (cid:51)erformance Share (cid:51)lan (cid:11)(cid:51)S(cid:51)(cid:12) and Rio Tinto 
Management Share (cid:51)lan (cid:11)MS(cid:51)(cid:12)(cid:30) and
other remuneration such as superannuation.

Performance and non-performance related 
remuneration
Total remuneration is a combination of the fi(cid:91)ed(cid:15) performance 
and service related elements described in this report. The short 
and long term incentive plans (cid:11)other than the Rio Tinto MS(cid:51)(cid:12) are 
the variable components of the total remuneration package and 
are therefore (cid:179)at risk(cid:180).  They are tied to achievement of specific 
business measures(cid:15) individual performance and service. The 
other components are referred to as (cid:179)fi(cid:91)ed(cid:180) as they are not at 
risk.

The long term incentive plan is designed to provide a target 
e(cid:91)pected value of between 22.5 and (cid:23)5 per cent of base salary 
for the senior e(cid:91)ecutives and the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:15) delivered in 
any one year through a blend of (cid:51)S(cid:51) and MS(cid:51) awards. (cid:44)n 201(cid:23)(cid:15) 
awards were made under the MS(cid:51).

(cid:40)(cid:91)cluding post employment and non(cid:16)monetary benefits(cid:15) the 
proportion of total direct remuneration, assuming maximum 
award levels and ma(cid:91)imum levels of performance(cid:15) provided 
by way of variable at risk components as at 31 December 
201(cid:23) for the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and other senior e(cid:91)ecutives was 
between (cid:23)(cid:27) and (cid:25)(cid:27) per cent. The actual proportion of total direct 
remuneration provided by way of variable performance related 
components will differ from these percentages depending on 
measured Company and individual performance and the current 
blend of share plans.

Base salary
(cid:37)ase salary is set at a level consistent with market e(cid:91)pectations 
within the wider Rio Tinto remuneration framework and may 
be delivered as a mi(cid:91) of cash and prescribed non(cid:16)financial 
benefits. (cid:44)t is targeted broadly at the median of companies of 
similar size, global reach and complexity, including other large 
natural resource companies. (cid:37)ase salary is reviewed annually 
and ad(cid:77)usted taking into account the individual and Company 
performance, global economic conditions, role responsibilities, 
an assessment against comparator groups(cid:15) internal relativities 
and base salary budgets applying to the broader employee 
population. 

Short term incentive plan
The short term incentive plan provides a bonus opportunity and is 
designed to support the overall remuneration policy by focusing 

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

management personnel on calendar year performance against 
challenging individual and business targets. 

Short term incentive performance conditions
(cid:44)ndividual performance is reviewed against relevant targets and 
ob(cid:77)ectives annually.  All senior e(cid:91)ecutives of the Company have 
between (cid:23)0 and (cid:26)0 per cent of their performance based bonus 
based on business measures with the remainder based on 
individual measures. 

The short term incentive plan bonus payments disclosed in this 
report are amounts paid in 2014 relating to performance in 2013, 
as 201(cid:23) calculations are not finalised at the date of this report.  
The Company’s business performance measures for 2013 used 
in the determination of short term incentive plan payments were:

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:41)inancial (cid:16) (cid:40)RA net earnings and cash (cid:192)ow.
Health and safety (cid:16) (cid:40)RA All (cid:44)n(cid:77)ury (cid:41)re(cid:84)uency Rate(cid:15) Semi 
(cid:52)uantitative Risk Assessments and closure rates of 
Significant (cid:51)otential (cid:44)ncidents.
(cid:37)usiness (cid:16) (cid:40)RA drummed production(cid:15) cost of material milled(cid:15) 
volume and cost of material moved for the rehabilitation of 
(cid:51)it 3(cid:15) commissioning of the (cid:37)rine Concentrator and Ranger 
3 Deeps (cid:40)(cid:91)ploration Decline pro(cid:77)ect.

Bonus Deferral Plan
(cid:44)n 201(cid:23)(cid:15) 25 per cent of the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s (cid:11)Ms Sutton(cid:12) short 
term incentive plan bonus pay was satisfied through the deferred 
award of shares in Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited under the terms of the Rio 
Tinto (cid:37)onus Deferral (cid:51)lan (cid:11)(cid:37)D(cid:51)(cid:12). 

The same percentage will be satisfied in 2015 through the 
deferred award of shares in Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited under the terms of 
the Rio Tinto (cid:37)D(cid:51).

Long term incentive plans
(cid:44)n 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the Company(cid:182)s Remuneration Committee considered 
the application of the Rio Tinto long term incentive plan to 
the Company(cid:182)s senior e(cid:91)ecutives. As previously outlined(cid:15) the 
Remuneration Committee believes that the general application 
of the Rio Tinto remuneration framework (cid:11)including the Rio 
Tinto long term incentive plans(cid:12) to (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s senior e(cid:91)ecutives 
with appropriate review by the Remuneration Committee(cid:15) is of 
benefit to the Company. As such the Remuneration Committee 
recommended that the Company(cid:182)s long term incentive plans 
remain unchanged for 201(cid:23). During 2015(cid:15) the Remuneration 
Committee will review the position for future years. 

Share based remuneration dependent on performance
Performance Share Plan 
The Rio Tinto (cid:51)S(cid:51) provides a conditional right to Rio Tinto shares 
to eligible senior management personnel within the Rio Tinto 
(cid:42)roup(cid:15) including the senior e(cid:91)ecutives of the Company. 
The conditional awards only vest if the performance condition 
set by the Rio Tinto Remuneration Committee is satisfied by 
Rio Tinto(cid:15) although the Rio Tinto Remuneration Committee 

retains discretion to satisfy itself that satisfaction of the 
performance condition is a genuine re(cid:192)ection of the underlying 
performance of the business. (cid:51)rior to the vesting of conditional 
awards(cid:15) Rio Tinto(cid:182)s Total Shareholder Return (cid:11)TSR(cid:12) performance 
against the performance condition is calculated independently by 
Towers (cid:58)atson.

Sub(cid:77)ect to Rio Tinto Remuneration Committee approval(cid:15) awards 
vest based on the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:182)s TSR performance against 
the Morgan Stanley Capital (cid:58)orld (cid:44)nde(cid:91) (cid:11)one third(cid:12) and the 
HS(cid:37)C (cid:42)lobal Mining (cid:44)nde(cid:91) (cid:11)one third(cid:12)(cid:15) along with improvement 
in Rio Tinto (cid:40)(cid:37)(cid:44)T margin (cid:11)one third(cid:12) relative to global mining 
comparators. This is reviewed at 31 December of the fifth year of 
the grant. The level of vesting depends on performance against 
the indices. 

(cid:44)f Rio Tinto was sub(cid:77)ect to a change of control or a company 
restructuring(cid:15) the conditional awards would only vest sub(cid:77)ect to 
the satisfaction of the performance condition measured at the 
time of the change of control or restructuring. Should this occur 
within the first 3(cid:25) months from date of grant of the award(cid:15) the 
number of shares that can vest will be reduced pro(cid:16)rata over the 
3(cid:25) month period. The Rio Tinto Remuneration Committee has 
discretion to adjust the performance condition to ensure a fair 
measure of performance. 

Rio Tinto releases awards to participants as either Rio Tinto 
plc or Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited shares. Awards may(cid:15) upon vesting(cid:15) be 
satisfied by Rio Tinto through the transfer of treasury shares(cid:15) the 
issue of new shares or the purchase of shares in the market.

Chief Executive’s long term incentive plan
(cid:44)n 201(cid:23) the Remuneration Committee recommended that the 
Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s long term incentive award be delivered in Rio 
Tinto shares under the Rio Tinto MS(cid:51) and under an (cid:40)RA long 
term incentive plan (cid:11)(cid:40)RA (cid:47)T(cid:44)(cid:51)(cid:12). The Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive is the only 
e(cid:91)ecutive who participates in this plan.  The amount of the Chief 
(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s long term incentive award that would otherwise have 
been provided under the Rio Tinto (cid:51)S(cid:51) has been provided under 
the (cid:40)RA (cid:47)T(cid:44)(cid:51).

The (cid:40)RA (cid:47)T(cid:44)(cid:51) is an award of rights that have a value calculated 
by reference to the Company(cid:182)s share price (cid:11)ie phantom shares(cid:12). 
(cid:58)hether or not the rights vest depends on the e(cid:91)tent to which 
the relevant performance conditions have been satisfied over 
the performance period.  Awards have a three year performance 
period commencing on 1 January of the year of grant. (cid:41)or the 
201(cid:23) award(cid:15) the performance conditions will be measured over a 
three year period (cid:11)from 1 January 201(cid:23) to 31 December 201(cid:25)(cid:12). 

The two performance conditions are a relative TSR condition and 
the achievement of (cid:40)RA strategic measures. (cid:40)ach condition will 
be assessed independently.  Strategic performance conditions 
have been chosen to ensure that the long term incentive award 
is assessed against both the Company(cid:182)s relative performance 
against other uranium producers and the achievement of (cid:40)RA 
strategic measures. The (cid:37)oard considers that this re(cid:192)ects the 

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65

the change of control(cid:15) but the award may be reduced pro rata to 
re(cid:192)ect the acceleration of vesting. (cid:51)rior to the change of control(cid:15) 
and with the consent of the ac(cid:84)uiring company(cid:15) the shares can 
be converted to shares in the ac(cid:84)uirer. After a change of control(cid:15) 
this can only be achieved with the consent of the employee.

Other Share Plans
The senior e(cid:91)ecutives of the Company(cid:15) together with all 
employees of the Company(cid:15) may participate in Rio Tinto share 
savings and share option plans applicable at particular locations. 
(cid:56)p to and including 2011(cid:15) these include the Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited 
share savings plan for senior e(cid:91)ecutives employed from the 
Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited group of companies and the Rio Tinto plc share 
savings plan for senior e(cid:91)ecutives employed from the Rio Tinto 
plc group of companies. (cid:44)n 2012(cid:15) the Rio Tinto Remuneration 
Committee approved and implemented a new global employee 
share purchase plan(cid:15) myShare. The new plan is offered to eligible 
employees. (cid:56)nder the plan(cid:15) employees may ac(cid:84)uire shares 
up to the value of (cid:56)S(cid:7)5(cid:15)000 per year capped at 10 per cent of 
their base salary. (cid:40)ach share purchased will be matched by the 
Company providing the participant holds the shares and remains 
employed at the end of the three year vesting period. (cid:41)urther 
details are at Note 30 to the (cid:41)inancial Statements. 

Share dealing policy
The participation of senior e(cid:91)ecutives in the Rio Tinto share plans 
involving the awarding of Rio Tinto securities at a future date(cid:15) and 
any grants of shares and options under these plans, is subject 
to and conditional upon compliance with the terms of the (cid:181)Rules 
for dealing in securities of Rio Tinto(cid:182) (cid:11)(cid:179)Rules for dealing(cid:180)(cid:12). The 
Rules for dealing e(cid:91)pressly prohibit the limiting of e(cid:91)posure to 
economic risk in relation to such securities(cid:15) and are available on 
the Rio Tinto website at www.riotinto.com.

66

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Director’s Report

appropriate mi(cid:91) of incentives to achieve an improvement in (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s 
performance over the long term.  

(cid:41)or the TSR performance condition(cid:15) rights vest based on (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s 
TSR performance against Areva SA(cid:15) Cameco Corp(cid:15) Denison 
Mines Corp(cid:15) (cid:40)nergy (cid:41)uels (cid:44)nc(cid:15) (cid:41)ission (cid:56)ranium Corp(cid:15) (cid:51)aladin 
(cid:40)nergy (cid:47)imited(cid:15) Summit Resources (cid:47)imited(cid:15) (cid:56)ranium (cid:40)nergy 
Corp and (cid:56)r(cid:16)(cid:40)nergy (cid:44)nc over the performance period. (cid:57)esting will 
be sub(cid:77)ect to (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s ranked position using the following schedule:

Equal or greater to 2nd 
ranked company

100 per cent of the rights sub-
(cid:77)ect to the TSR condition vest

(cid:37)etween the 5th and 2nd 
ranked companies

Above the 5th ranked 
company

(cid:37)etween 22.5 per cent and 100 
per cent of the rights subject to 
the TSR condition vest(cid:15) on a pro 
rata basis

22.5 per cent of the rights 
sub(cid:77)ect to the TSR condition 
vest

(cid:40)(cid:84)ual to the (cid:25)th ranked 
company or below

Nil vesting

(cid:41)or the (cid:40)RA strategic measures(cid:15) an assessment of the level of 
vesting applicable to this portion of the award is to be assessed 
by the Remuneration Committee(cid:15) with the final outcome to be 
recommended to the (cid:40)RA (cid:37)oard by the (cid:40)RA Chairman at the 
end of the three year performance period. The elements to be 
considered in respect of (cid:40)RA strategic measures include financial 
performance, organisational and personnel related performance, 
relations with stakeholders and progress in respect of the 
Ranger 3 Deeps underground mine pro(cid:77)ect. (cid:41)or outstanding 
performance, the Board may determine to permit a number of 
rights to vest that is e(cid:84)ual to 150 per cent of the initial number 
of rights awarded that were sub(cid:77)ect to (cid:40)RA strategic measures 
condition. 

(cid:56)pon vesting(cid:15) the value of the (cid:40)RA (cid:47)T(cid:44)(cid:51) award will be converted 
into Rio Tinto MS(cid:51) shares. The number of Rio Tinto MS(cid:51) shares 
to be awarded will be calculated based on the five day average 
Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited share price prior to the Rio Tinto MS(cid:51) grant 
date in March of the year of vesting. Any Rio Tinto MS(cid:51) shares 
provided will vest after a further 2 year period in (cid:41)ebruary 201(cid:28). 
There are no further performance conditions(cid:15) however(cid:15) the Rio 
Tinto MSP shares can be forfeited in certain circumstances 
related to cessation of employment.

Share based remuneration not dependent on 
performance
(cid:56)nder the Rio Tinto MS(cid:51)(cid:15) conditional grants of Rio Tinto shares 
may be awarded to eligible senior e(cid:91)ecutives of the Company 
which will vest(cid:15) wholly or partly(cid:15) upon e(cid:91)piry of a three year 
vesting period. Rio Tinto shares to satisfy the vesting are 
purchased by Rio Tinto in the market. Award levels under the Rio 
Tinto MS(cid:51) are at the discretion of Rio Tinto. 

(cid:44)n the case of a change of control(cid:15) awards vest on the date of 

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Details of remuneration

D 
Details of the remuneration of each non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive and e(cid:91)ecutive Director and each of the other senior e(cid:91)ecutives in respect of their 
services to the Company are set out in the following tables.

Non-executive directors of Energy Resources of Australia Ltd

SHORT TERM BENEFITS

POST EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

DIRECTORS 
FEES 
($000)

CASH
BONUS 
($000)

NON- CASH 
BENEFITS
($000)

SUPER- 
ANNUATION
($000)

TOTAL
($000)

P McMahon

D Klingner1

H Garnett

P Taylor2 

J Pegler

H Newell2,3

Joanne Farrell2,4

Bruce Cox2,5

Total 2014

Total 2013

2014

2013

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2014

175

167

20

110

110

90

90

108

108

40

90

50

9

582

585

Note 1  
Note 2  
Note 3  
Note 4  
Note 5 

Resigned as a Director and Chairman on 8 February 2013. 
Amounts paid directly to Rio Tinto Limited.
Resigned as a Director on 11 June 2014.
Appointed as a Director on 11 June 2014. 
Appointed as a Director on 27 November 2014.

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

16

15

2

10

10

-

-

10

10

-

-

-

-

36

37

191

182

22

120

120

90

90

118

118

40

90

50

9

618

622

(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive Director and other key management personnel of the consolidated entity
Set out below is an overview of the remuneration paid to the e(cid:91)ecutive Director and other key management personnel in 201(cid:23). This 
includes details of the key elements of remuneration and a summary of total remuneration for 201(cid:23).

Andrea Sutton (Chief Executive from 23 September 2013)
Base salary
Ms Sutton was appointed as Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and Managing Director on 23 September 2013. Ms Sutton(cid:182)s base salary is reviewed 
annually(cid:15) with reference to the underlying performance of (cid:40)RA(cid:15) the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup and Ms Sutton(cid:15) global economic conditions(cid:15) role 
responsibility(cid:15) an assessment against relevant comparator groups(cid:15) internal relativities and base salary budgets applying to the broader 
employee population.

(cid:50)n 1 March 201(cid:23)(cid:15) Ms Sutton(cid:182)s base salary was (cid:7)3(cid:28)1(cid:15)000.

ST(cid:44)(cid:51) ob(cid:77)ectives
The ST(cid:44)(cid:51) cash payment made to Ms Sutton and other key management personnel in 201(cid:23) was determined by assessing individual 
and business performance against ob(cid:77)ectives set for 2013.

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

The following individual ob(cid:77)ectives were set for Ms Sutton for 
2013:

(cid:135) 

Continue to improve employee engagement and safety 
during a time of significant change and uncertainty

(cid:135)  Meet or exceed 2013 production target
(cid:135) 

Continue to implement the progressive rehabilitation 
program for the Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area on schedule and on 
budget(cid:15) including the backfilling of (cid:51)it 3(cid:15) and dewatering of 
Pit 1
Advancement of the Ranger 3 Deeps (cid:40)(cid:91)ploration Decline(cid:15) 
underground exploration drilling program and Prefeasibility 
Study in accordance with plan and budget
Demonstrate progress on the rehabilitation of Jabiluka 
(cid:44)nterim (cid:58)ater Management (cid:51)ond
(cid:40)nhance the Company(cid:182)s relationship with Mirarr Traditional 
(cid:50)wners and the (cid:42)und(cid:77)eihmi Aboriginal Corporation

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

ST(cid:44)(cid:51) outcomes
Ms Sutton(cid:182)s achievement against her 2013 personal ob(cid:77)ectives 
was assessed as good. (cid:44)n particular:

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:40)RA had a strong safety performance(cid:15) with a new record of 
1(cid:27)(cid:27) in(cid:77)ury free days and an All (cid:44)n(cid:77)ury (cid:41)re(cid:84)uency Rate of 0.(cid:28)1
(cid:40)RA produced 2(cid:15)(cid:28)(cid:25)0 tonnes and sold 2(cid:15)(cid:27)15 tonnes of 
uranium oxide
(cid:40)RA achieved (cid:7)52 million of additional cost savings as part 
of the ongoing (cid:37)usiness Review and ended the year with 
(cid:7)35(cid:26) million in cash on hand
The rehabilitation of (cid:51)it 3 progressed ahead of schedule with 
22.(cid:27) million tonnes backfilled at the end of 2013
The rehabilitation of (cid:51)it 1 progressed on schedule(cid:15) with 
dewatering wicks installed and the first part of a rock layer to 
compress the tailings mass and activate the wicks laid
The Ranger 3 Deeps (cid:40)(cid:91)ploration Decline pro(cid:77)ect(cid:15) 
underground exploration drilling program and Prefeasibility 
Study progressed on schedule and on budget
The Jabiluka (cid:44)nterim (cid:58)ater Management (cid:51)ond was safely 
dismantled(cid:15) with rehabilitation of the site well advanced
(cid:44)mproved engagement with Mirarr Traditional (cid:50)wners and 
the (cid:42)und(cid:77)eihmi Aboriginal Corporation through leach tank 
recovery operation(cid:15) Relationship Committee and related 
activities
(cid:40)RA(cid:182)s strong record of employee diversity continued(cid:15) with (cid:28)1 
female employees (cid:11)1(cid:27) per cent of the total workforce(cid:12) and 
(cid:26)(cid:28) (cid:44)ndigenous employees (cid:11)1(cid:25) per cent of the total workforce

(cid:47)T(cid:44)(cid:51) awards granted
Award levels are set so as to incentivise e(cid:91)ecutives to provide 
sufficient retention for the e(cid:91)ecutive team and to contribute to the 
competitiveness of the overall remuneration package. The value 
of the awards granted to Ms Sutton in 201(cid:23)(cid:15) based on the fair 
value calculations performed by individual advisors(cid:15) was 5(cid:25) per 
cent of base salary. The eventual value of the award will depend 
on performance during the period 201(cid:23) to 201(cid:25).

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Total remuneration
The table below provides a summary of Ms Sutton(cid:182)s total remuneration disclosed for 2013 (cid:11)for services rendered to (cid:40)RA(cid:12) and 201(cid:23). 
The purpose of this table is to enable shareholders to better understand the actual remuneration received and to provide an overview 
of the actual outcomes of the Company(cid:182)s remuneration arrangements. The remuneration details set out on page (cid:26)3 include theoretical 
accounting values relating to various parts of the remuneration packages(cid:15) most notably long term incentive plan arrangements. 
Accordingly(cid:15) the numbers below are not compatible with those in the table on page (cid:26)3. 

(STATED IN $’000)

Base salary paid1

ST(cid:44)(cid:51) cash bonus2

ST(cid:44)(cid:51) deferred shares3

(cid:47)T(cid:44)(cid:51) share based payments

Superannuation

(cid:50)ther benefits4

Total remuneration 

(cid:8) change from previous year

(cid:8) of ma(cid:91)imum ST(cid:44)(cid:51) cash bonus awarded

(cid:8) of ma(cid:91)imum ST(cid:44)(cid:51) cash bonus forfeited

2014

389

175

57

143

98

84

946

-

61

39

2013

105

-

-

34

21

53

213

-

-

-

Note 1 
Note 2 

Note 3 

Note 4 

2013 salary paid in financial year from 23 September 2013 to 31 December 2013. Salaries are reviewed with effect from 1 March.  
Bonus payment relates to prior year performance.  No cash bonus is disclosed for 2013 as payments made were in respect to services  
rendered to another Rio Tinto entity in 2012.  
Value of deferred share awards granted under Bonus Deferral Plan.  No deferred share awards are disclosed for 2013 as awards made  
were in respect to services rendered to another Rio Tinto entity in 2012. 
Other benefits include accommodation, vehicle and other allowances.  

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Rob Atkinson 
Base salary
Mr Atkinson resigned as Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and Managing Director on 23 September 2013.  At the time of his resignation(cid:15) Mr Atkinson(cid:182)s 
base salary was (cid:7)3(cid:28)(cid:28)(cid:15)0(cid:28)(cid:23).

Total remuneration
(cid:41)or comparison purposes(cid:15) the table below provides a summary of Mr Atkinson(cid:182)s total remuneration disclosed for the years of 2012 
and 2013.  Mr Atkinson received no remuneration from (cid:40)RA in 201(cid:23). The purpose of this table is to enable shareholders to better 
understand the actual remuneration received and to provide an overview of the actual outcomes of the Company(cid:182)s remuneration 
arrangements. The remuneration details set out on page (cid:26)3 include theoretical accounting values relating to various parts of the 
remuneration packages(cid:15) most notably long term incentive plan arrangements. Accordingly(cid:15) the numbers below are not compatible with 
those in the table on page (cid:26)3. 

(STATED IN $’000)

Base salary paid1

ST(cid:44)(cid:51) cash bonus2

ST(cid:44)(cid:51) deferred shares3

(cid:47)T(cid:44)(cid:51) share based payments

Superannuation

(cid:50)ther benefits4

Total remuneration 

(cid:8) change from previous year5

(cid:8) of ma(cid:91)imum ST(cid:44)(cid:51) cash bonus awarded

(cid:8) of ma(cid:91)imum ST(cid:44)(cid:51) cash bonus forfeited

2014

2013

2012

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

287

198

66

181

88

87

907

(4%)

66%

34%

396

189

63

223

92

84

1,047

5%

67%

33%

Note 1 
Note 2 
Note 3 
Note 4 
Note 5 

2013 salary paid in financial year from 1 (cid:45)anuary 2013 to 23 September 2013. Salaries are reviewed with effect from 1 March. 
Bonus payment relates to prior year performance.
Value of deferred share awards granted under Bonus Deferral Plan.
Other benefits include accommodation, vehicle and other allowances.  
2013 salary annualised for comparison.  

Key management personnel (other than the Chief Executive)
Base salary
(cid:37)ase salaries are reviewed annually(cid:15) with reference to the underlying performance of (cid:40)RA(cid:15) the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup and the individual(cid:15) 
global economic conditions(cid:15) role responsibility(cid:15) an assessment against relevant comparator groups and base salary budgets applying 
to the broader employee population.

At the end of 2013 and 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the base salaries of the Company(cid:182)s key management personnel (cid:11)other than the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:12) were:

BASE SALARY A’$000 (UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED)

Tim (cid:40)ckersley

James May1

Greg Sinclair

Steeve Thibeault2

Alan Tietzel

Note 1 
Note 2 

Employment with ERA commenced on 5 May 2014.
(cid:40)mployment with (cid:40)(cid:53)(cid:36) ceased on 30 May 2014. Salary is re(cid:192)ected at time of resi(cid:74)nation.

2014

315

235

297

316

349

% 
CHANGE

3%

-

2%

1%

2%

2013

305

-

290

312

341

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

ST(cid:44)(cid:51) ob(cid:77)ectives and outcomes

Tim (cid:40)ckersley

SUMMARY OF INDIVIDUAL OBJECTIVES*

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:47)ead and deliver on the Company(cid:182)s health and safety ob(cid:77)ectives to achieve (cid:93)ero harm
Deliver the Ranger operations cost budget to plan
Deliver total material movement for mining operations to plan
Deliver plant throughput to plan
(cid:44)ntegrate (cid:37)rine Concentrator into Ranger operations
Right(cid:16)si(cid:93)e the Ranger workforce for future operations and maintain diversity
Continued improved relations with local and regulatory stakeholders

James May

(cid:135)  Mr May (cid:77)oined (cid:40)RA in May 201(cid:23)(cid:15) and as such no ST(cid:44)(cid:51) payment was made in 201(cid:23) for services 

Greg Sinclair

Steeve Thibeault

Alan Tietzel

to (cid:40)RA

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:47)ead and deliver on the Company(cid:182)s health and safety ob(cid:77)ectives to achieve (cid:93)ero harm
Delivery of the (cid:44)ntegrated Tailings(cid:15) (cid:58)ater and Closure (cid:51)refeasibility Study(cid:15) strategy and cost 
estimate
Delivery of the Tailings and (cid:37)rine Management (cid:41)easibility Study
Delivery of the 2013 ob(cid:77)ectives of the Ranger 3 Deeps (cid:51)refeasibility Study and (cid:40)nvironmental 
(cid:44)mpact Statement
Development(cid:15) approval and handover of progressive rehabilitation plans for (cid:51)it 1 initial backfill 
and the Jabiluka (cid:44)nterim (cid:58)ater Management (cid:51)ond
Safely e(cid:91)ecute the surface e(cid:91)ploration program to target high grade deposits on the Ranger 
Project Area

Demonstrate leadership in health(cid:15) safety and environment and Company values
(cid:44)mplement the ob(cid:77)ectives of the 2013 (cid:37)usiness (cid:51)lan and develop a comprehensive and detailed 
Business Plan for 2014 and 2015
(cid:44)mplement rigorous cost review throughout (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s operations
(cid:40)nsure that cash(cid:192)ow planning and management is at a high level(cid:15) with a view to ma(cid:91)imising 
cash(cid:192)ow at end of 2015
Develop optimised cash(cid:192)ow generation options(cid:15) including production(cid:15) sales and inventory for 
the period of 2013 to 2016
Deliver and improve procurement initiatives in line with (cid:37)usiness Review ob(cid:77)ectives

Demonstrate leadership in health(cid:15) safety(cid:15) environment and Company values
(cid:44)mplement specific aspects of Section (cid:23)(cid:23) Agreement and Mining Agreement including 
establishment of (cid:46)akadu (cid:58)est Arnhem Social Trust
(cid:41)oster Traditional (cid:50)wner and key stakeholder support for a Ranger 3 Deeps undergound mine
Develop tenure and e(cid:91)ternal relations plan to support the long term future of Ranger operations
Develop and drive strategies which will underpin a viable future for Jabiru(cid:15) including scheduling 
of the town under A(cid:47)RA in the name of Mirarr Traditional (cid:50)wners
Support development of long term strategic options for (cid:40)RA

(cid:13)(cid:44)ndividual ob(cid:77)ectives relate to the 2013 financial year.

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

A summary of the individual targets and performance for each of the Company(cid:182)s key management personnel (cid:11)other than the Chief 
(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:12) for the 2013 financial year (cid:11)ST(cid:44)(cid:51) paid in 201(cid:23)(cid:12) is set out in the table below. 

MEASURES

Tim Eckersley

Financial performance

Business performance

Health and Safety

(cid:44)ndividual

Total

Greg Sinclair

Financial performance

Business performance

Health and Safety

(cid:44)ndividual

Total

Steeve Thibeault

Financial performance

Business performance

Health and Safety

(cid:44)ndividual

Total

Alan Tietzel

Financial performance

Business performance

Health and Safety

(cid:44)ndividual

Total

WEIGHT (%)

SCORE (OUT 
OF 200%)

WEIGHTED 
SCORE  (%)

10.0

15.0

15.0

(cid:25)0.0

100.0

10.0

15.0

15.0

(cid:25)0.0

100.0

10.0

15.0

15.0

(cid:25)0.0

100.0

10.0

15.0

15.0

(cid:25)0.0

100.0

121.(cid:28)

133.(cid:23)

13(cid:26).0

12(cid:23).(cid:27)

-

121.(cid:28)

133.(cid:23)

13(cid:26).0

11(cid:26).5

-

121.(cid:28)

133.(cid:23)

13(cid:26).0

113.5

-

121.(cid:28)

133.(cid:23)

13(cid:26).0

111.(cid:26)

-

12.2

20.0

20.(cid:25)

(cid:26)(cid:23).(cid:28)

127.7

12.2

20.0

20.(cid:25)

(cid:26)0.5

123.3

12.2

20.0

20.(cid:25)

(cid:25)(cid:27).1

120.9

12.2

20.0

20.(cid:25)

(cid:25)(cid:26).0

119.8

(cid:47)T(cid:44)(cid:51) awards
Award levels are set so as to incentivise e(cid:91)ecutives to provide sufficient retention for the e(cid:91)ecutive team and to contribute to the 
competitiveness of the overall remuneration package.  The value of the awards granted in 201(cid:23)(cid:15) based on the fair value calculations 
performed by independent advisors(cid:15) was between 22.5 per cent and 30 per cent of base salary.  

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Executive directors and other key management personnel total remuneration

SHORT TERM BENEFITS 

CASH 
SALARY
($000)

CASH
BONUS9
($000)

OTHER8
($000)

TERMINATION 
PAYMENTS 
($000)

POST 
EMPLOY-
MENT 
BENEFITS

SUPER-
ANNUA-
TION
PENSION
($000)

SHARE 
BASED 
PAY-
MENTS9

CASH & 
EQUITY 
SETTLED
($000)

Executive directors

A Sutton1

R Atkinson2

Other senior executives

T (cid:40)ckersley3

J May4

G Sinclair5

S Thibeault6

A Tietzel7

Total 2014

Total 2013

2014

2013

2013

2014

2013

2014

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

389

105

287

360

363

137

296

299

131

321

397

401

1,710

1,776

175

-

198

117

125

-

89

99

94

100

122

124

597

646

84

53

87

33

32

38

38

41

31

82

38

80

262

375

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

98

21

88

72

70

27

66

64

34

61

30

22

327

326

169

34

209

88

75

17

63

65

34

83

107

108

478

574

TOTAL
($000)

915

213

869

670

665

219

552

568

324

647

694

735

3,374

3,697

Note 1 

Note 2 
Note 3 
Note 4 

Note (cid:24) 
Note (cid:25) 

Note (cid:26) 
Note (cid:27) 
Note (cid:28) 

(cid:51)erformance related cash bonus(cid:29) (cid:25)1 per cent awarded in 2014, 3(cid:28) per cent forfeited. No cash bonus is disclosed for 2013 as payments  
made were in respect to  services rendered to another Rio Tinto entity in 2012.
(cid:53)esi(cid:74)ned as (cid:38)hief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive on 23 September 2013. (cid:51)erformance related cash bonus(cid:29) (cid:25)(cid:25) per cent awarded in 2013, 34 per cent forfeited. 
(cid:51)erformance related cash bonus(cid:29) (cid:25)4 per cent awarded in 2014, 3(cid:25) per cent forfeited. (cid:25)(cid:27) per cent awarded in 2013, 32 per cent forfeited. 
Salary paid in financial year from (cid:24) May 2014 to 31 December 2014. No cash bonus is disclosed for 2014 as payments made were in respect  
to services rendered to another Rio Tinto entity in 2013.
(cid:51)erformance related cash bonus(cid:29) (cid:25)2 per cent awarded in 2014, 3(cid:27) per cent forfeited. (cid:25)(cid:27) per cent awarded in 2013, 32 per cent forfeited.
Salary paid in financial year from 1 (cid:45)anuary 2014 to 30 May 2014. (cid:51)erformance related cash bonus(cid:29) (cid:25)0 per cent awarded in 2014, 40 per cent  
forfeited. (cid:25)4 per cent awarded in 2013, 3(cid:25) per cent forfeited. 
(cid:51)erformance related cash bonus (cid:25)0 per cent awarded in 2014, 40 per cent forfeited. (cid:25)1  per cent awarded in 2013, 3(cid:28) per cent forfeited.
Other benefits includes relocation, accommodation, travel, vehicle and other allowances and other employment related benefits. 
(cid:51)erformance related bonuses paid in 2014 relate to services in 2013 (cid:11)e(cid:84)ually bonuses paid in 2013 relate to services in 2012(cid:12).

The value of share based awards has been determined in accordance with the recognition and measurement re(cid:84)uirements of AAS(cid:37)2 
(cid:179)Share(cid:16)based (cid:51)ayment(cid:180).  The fair value of awards granted under the Rio Tinto Management Share (cid:51)lan (cid:11)MS(cid:51)(cid:12)(cid:15) (cid:37)onus Deferral (cid:51)lan 
(cid:11)(cid:37)D(cid:51)(cid:12)(cid:15) (cid:51)erformance Share (cid:51)lan (cid:11)(cid:51)S(cid:51)(cid:12) and Share Savings (cid:51)lan (cid:11)SS(cid:51)(cid:12) have been calculated at their dates of grant using valuation 
models provided by e(cid:91)ternal consultants (cid:47)ane Clark and (cid:51)eacock (cid:47)(cid:47)(cid:51)(cid:15) including an independent lattice(cid:16)based option valuation model 
and a Monte Carlo valuation model which takes into account the constraints on vesting and e(cid:91)ercise attached to these awards.

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive service agreements

(cid:40) 
Remuneration and other terms of employment for key management personnel are formalised in service agreements. These 
agreements provide for participation in the Rio Tinto short and long term incentive plans upon achieving performance and service 
goals. The agreements may also provide for other benefits(cid:15) including: medical insurance(cid:30) vehicle and accommodation allowances(cid:30) 
relocation allowances and e(cid:91)penses and travel allowances.

(cid:46)ey management personnel will also be entitled to a range of pre(cid:16)e(cid:91)isting redundancy entitlements(cid:15) depending on the business and 
region from where they were originally employed within the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup. These include:

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

notice may be worked or fully or partly paid in lieu(cid:15) at (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s discretion(cid:30)
additional capped service related payments may apply(cid:30)
pro rata short term incentive plan payments may be paid based on the proportion of the performance period worked(cid:30)
conditional share awards granted and held for less than three years at the date of termination are reduced pro(cid:16)rata(cid:30)
share options or conditional share awards held for less than 12 months at date of termination may be reduced pro(cid:16)rata(cid:30)
there is no contractual entitlement to payments in the event of a change of control(cid:30) and
other ma(cid:77)or provisions of the agreements relating to remuneration as set out below.

A Sutton - Chief Executive 
Term of agreement - Open, commenced 23 September 2013
(cid:37)ase salary (cid:11)e(cid:91)cluding superannuation(cid:15) allowances and other benefits(cid:12) as at 31 December 201(cid:23) of (cid:7)3(cid:28)1(cid:15)000 per annum. Ma(cid:91)imum 
short term incentive bonus upon meeting performance criteria is 100 per cent of base salary. (cid:37)ase salary and short term incentive 
targets are to be reviewed annually. Termination by the employee is three months notice in writing or by the employer giving si(cid:91) 
months notice or e(cid:84)uivalent payment in lieu of notice.

(cid:44)n addition to Ms Sutton(cid:182)s service agreement(cid:15) (cid:40)RA has entered into a secondment agreement with Rio Tinto in relation to Ms Sutton(cid:182)s 
services to (cid:40)RA. The secondment agreement provides that (cid:40)RA can end Ms Sutton(cid:182)s secondment by giving Rio Tinto si(cid:91) months(cid:182) 
notice at any time. Rio Tinto can end Ms Sutton(cid:182)s secondment by giving si(cid:91) months(cid:182) notice to (cid:40)RA(cid:15) provided such notice can be given 

no earlier than 23 March 201(cid:25).

T Eckersley - General Manager Operations
Term of agreement - Open, commenced 10 September 2012 
(cid:37)ase salary (cid:11)e(cid:91)cluding superannuation(cid:15) allowances and other benefits(cid:12) as at 31 December 201(cid:23) of (cid:7)315(cid:15)000 per annum. Ma(cid:91)imum 
short term incentive bonus upon meeting performance criteria is (cid:25)0 per cent of base salary. (cid:37)ase salary and short term incentive 
targets to be reviewed annually. Termination by the employee is three months notice in writing or by the employer giving si(cid:91) months 
notice or e(cid:84)uivalent payment in lieu of notice.

(cid:45) May (cid:16) (cid:38)hief (cid:41)inancial Officer
Term of agreement - Open, commenced 5 May 2014
(cid:37)ase salary (cid:11)e(cid:91)cluding superannuation(cid:15) allowances and other benefits(cid:12) as at 31 December 201(cid:23) of (cid:7)235(cid:15)000 per annum. Ma(cid:91)imum 
short term incentive bonus upon meeting performance criteria is 50 per cent of base salary. (cid:37)ase salary and short term incentive 
targets to be reviewed annually. Termination by the employee is three months notice in writing or by the employer giving si(cid:91) months 
notice or e(cid:84)uivalent payment in lieu of notice.

G Sinclair - General Manager Technical Projects
Term of agreement (cid:16) (cid:50)pen(cid:15) commenced 1 May 200(cid:26).
(cid:37)ase salary (cid:11)e(cid:91)cluding superannuation(cid:15) allowances and other benefits(cid:12) as at 31 December 201(cid:23) of (cid:7)2(cid:28)(cid:26)(cid:15)000 per annum. Ma(cid:91)imum 
short term incentive bonus upon meeting performance criteria is 50 per cent of base salary. (cid:37)ase salary and short term incentive 
targets to be reviewed annually. Termination by the employee is one month notice in writing or by the employer giving three months 
notice or e(cid:84)uivalent payment in lieu of notice.

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

A Tietzel - Chief Advisor Agreements
Term of agreement - Open, commenced 1 October 2010
(cid:37)ase salary (cid:11)e(cid:91)cluding superannuation(cid:15) allowances and other benefits(cid:12) as at 31 December 201(cid:23) of (cid:7)3(cid:23)(cid:28)(cid:15)000 per annum. Ma(cid:91)imum 
short term incentive bonus upon meeting performance criteria is (cid:25)0 per cent of base salary. (cid:37)ase salary and short term incentive 
targets to be reviewed annually. Termination by the employee is three months notice in writing or by the employer giving si(cid:91) months 
notice or e(cid:84)uivalent payment in lieu of notice.

S (cid:55)hibeault (cid:16) (cid:38)hief (cid:41)inancial Officer
Term of agreement - commenced 1 December 2012 and resigned 30 May 2014
(cid:37)ase salary (cid:11)e(cid:91)cluding superannuation(cid:15) allowances and other benefits(cid:12) as at 30 May 201(cid:23) of (cid:7)31(cid:25)(cid:15)000 per annum. Ma(cid:91)imum short 
term incentive bonus upon meeting performance criteria is 50 per cent of base salary. (cid:37)ase salary and short term incentive targets 
to be reviewed annually. Termination by the employee is three months notice in writing or by the employer giving si(cid:91) months notice 
or e(cid:84)uivalent payment in lieu of notice. Mr Thibeault commenced employment with the Company in July 200(cid:28) but entered into a new 
service agreement on 1 December 2012.

R Atkinson - Chief Executive 
Term of agreement - commenced 8 September 2008 and resigned 23 September 2013
(cid:37)ase salary (cid:11)e(cid:91)cluding superannuation(cid:15) allowances and other benefits(cid:12) as at 23 September 2013 of (cid:7)3(cid:28)(cid:28)(cid:15)000 per annum. Ma(cid:91)imum 
short term incentive bonus upon meeting performance criteria is 120 per cent of base salary.  (cid:37)ase salary and short term incentive 
targets are to be reviewed annually. Termination by the employee is three months notice in writing or by the employer giving si(cid:91) 
months notice or e(cid:84)uivalent payment in lieu of notice.

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76

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

F 

Share based compensation 

Rio Tinto Share Option Plan 
(cid:44)n 2013 the Rio Tinto Share (cid:50)ption (cid:51)lan was discontinued. No options were granted in 201(cid:23). Details of the costs of the share based 
payment plans applied by the Company are provided at Note 30 of the (cid:41)inancial Statements.

The terms and conditions of each grant of options affecting remuneration in this or future reporting periods are as follows:

GRANT DATE

Rio Tinto Limited

9/03/2005

7/03/2006

17/03/2009

Rio Tinto plc

17/03/2009

EXERCISE 
PRICE  
(PRE RIGHTS 
ISSUE)

EXERCISE 
PRICE  
(POST RIGHTS 
ISSUE)

VALUE PER 
OPTION AT 
GRANT DATE

VALUE PER 
OPTION  
POST RIGHTS 
ISSUE

EXPIRY 
DATE

9/03/2015

7/03/2016

17/03/2019

17/03/2019

$

(cid:23)(cid:26).0(cid:23)

(cid:26)1.0(cid:25)

(cid:23)(cid:28).5(cid:25)

£

20.01

$

30.(cid:28)3

5(cid:23).(cid:28)5

33.(cid:23)5

£

1(cid:25).53

$

(cid:27).(cid:28)3

1(cid:26).0(cid:28)

13.3(cid:25)

£

(cid:25).(cid:25)2

$

(cid:27).(cid:28)3

1(cid:26).0(cid:28)

13.3(cid:25)

£

(cid:27).2(cid:28)

EARLIEST 
EXERCISE  
DATE

9/03/2008

7/03/2009

17/03/2012

17/03/2012

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Rio Tinto Performance Share Plan 
Share awards under the Rio Tinto (cid:51)erformance Share (cid:51)lan (cid:11)(cid:51)S(cid:51)(cid:12) are granted at the discretion of the Rio Tinto Remuneration 
Committee in line with Rio Tinto guidelines. (cid:44)n 2013 the (cid:51)S(cid:51) was revised(cid:15) and as a transitional provision(cid:15) 50 per cent potentially vest 
after four years and 50 per cent potentially vest after five years. No (cid:51)S(cid:51) was granted as remuneration during 201(cid:23). The terms and 
conditions of each right to Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited or Rio Tinto plc shares affecting remuneration in this or future reporting periods are as 
follows:

AWARD DATE

Rio Tinto Limited

21 March 2011

19 March 2012

27 May 2013

27 May 2013

Rio Tinto plc

21 March 2011

19 March 2012

MARKET PRICE AT AWARD

PERFORMANCE PERIOD 
ENDS*

MARKET PRICE AT  
31 DECEMBER 2014

(cid:7)(cid:27)1.00

(cid:7)(cid:25)5.(cid:27)5

(cid:7)53.11

(cid:7)53.11

(cid:133)(cid:23)0.5(cid:27)

(cid:133)3(cid:25).1(cid:23)

31 December 2014

31 December 2015

31 December 2016

31 December 2017

31 December 2014

31 December 2015

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:133)30.00

(cid:133)30.00

Note * Vesting dependent upon continued employment with a Rio Tinto Group company.

Rio Tinto Management Share Plan 
Share awards under the  Rio Tinto Management Share (cid:51)lan (cid:11)MS(cid:51)(cid:12) are granted at the discretion of the Rio Tinto Remuneration 
Committee in line with Rio Tinto guidelines. The terms and conditions of each right to Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited or Rio Tinto plc shares 
affecting remuneration in this or future reporting periods are as follows:

AWARD DATE

Rio Tinto Limited

19 March 2012

27 May 2013

17 March 2014

Rio Tinto plc

19 March 2012

MARKET PRICE  
AT AWARD

PERFORMANCE PERIOD 
ENDS*

PRICE AT  
31 DECEMBER 2013

(cid:7)(cid:25)5.(cid:27)5

(cid:7)53.11

(cid:7)(cid:25)0.2(cid:27)

31 December 2014

31 December 2015

31 December 2016

(cid:133)3(cid:25).1(cid:23)

31 December 2014

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:133)30.00

Note * Vesting dependent upon continued employment with a Rio Tinto Group company.

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Rio Tinto Bonus Deferral Plan 
Share awards under the Rio Tinto (cid:37)onus Deferral (cid:51)lan are granted at the discretion of the Rio Tinto Remuneration Committee in line 
with Rio Tinto guidelines. The terms and conditions of each right to Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited shares affecting remuneration in this or future 
reporting periods are as follows:

AWARD DATE

Rio Tinto Limited 

21 March 2011

19 March 2012

27 May 2013

17 March 2014

MARKET PRICE AT AWARD

VESTING DATE*

PRICE AT  
31 DECEMBER 2014

(cid:7)(cid:27)1.00

(cid:7)(cid:25)5.(cid:27)5

(cid:7)53.11

(cid:7)(cid:25)0.35

100% 1 December 2013

100% 1 December 2014

100% 1 December 2015

100% 1 December 2016

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

(cid:7)5(cid:27).00

Note * Vesting dependent upon continued employment with a Rio Tinto Group company.

Share based compensation – Rio Tinto employee share schemes
The Directors and key management personnel of the Company who elected to participate in the Rio Tinto employee share schemes 
as at 31 December 201(cid:23) are set out below: 

P Taylor

J Farrell

B Cox

T (cid:40)ckersley

G Sinclair

A Tietzel

Rio Tinto myShare Savings (cid:51)lan

Rio Tinto myShare Savings (cid:51)lan

Rio Tinto myShare Savings (cid:51)lan

Rio Tinto Share Savings (cid:51)lan

Rio Tinto myShare Savings (cid:51)lan

Rio Tinto myShare Savings (cid:51)lan

Rio Tinto myShare Savings (cid:51)lan

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

(cid:40)(cid:84)uity instrument disclosures relatin(cid:74) to Directors and (cid:78)ey mana(cid:74)ement personnel 
(cid:50)ptions provided as remuneration
Details of options over ordinary shares in Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited and Rio Tinto plc held during the year and provided as remuneration to 
key management personnel in respect of their service to (cid:40)RA are set out below. (cid:58)hen e(cid:91)ercisable(cid:15) each option is convertible into one 
ordinary share of Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited or Rio Tinto plc.

BALANCE AT  
START OF  
THE YEAR OR  
ON JOINING1

BALANCE AT END  
OF THE YEAR3

GRANTED 
AS REMUN-
ERATION

EXERCISED 
DURING THE 
YEAR

OTHER 
CHANGES2

VESTED & 
EXER- 
CISABLE

UN–VESTED

Rio Tinto plc

Key management personnel

S Thibeault

Rio Tinto Limited

Executive directors

R Atkinson

A Sutton

2014

2013

2013

2014

2013

Key management personnel

A Tietzel

2014

2013

Non-executive directors4

P Taylor

J Farrell

B Cox

2014

2013

2014

2014

1,186

1,186

2,168

2,888

2,888

4,495

4,495

9,368

12,987

8,090

8,425

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(2,487)

-

(2,025)

(3,619)

-

(314)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,186

1,186

2,168

2,888

2,888

2,008

4,495

7,343

9,368

8,090

8,111

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Note 1 
Note 2 

Note 3 
Note 4 

(cid:58)here a (cid:78)ey mana(cid:74)ement personnel (cid:77)oined durin(cid:74) the year, balance at start of the year re(cid:192)ects holdin(cid:74)s at time of commencement with (cid:40)(cid:53)(cid:36).
Other chan(cid:74)es and end of year balance include chan(cid:74)es made in relation to awards for service within the wider (cid:53)io (cid:55)into (cid:42)roup, includin(cid:74) before (cid:77)oinin(cid:74) or after    
ceasin(cid:74) with (cid:40)(cid:53)(cid:36), and forfeited options where conditions were not met. 
(cid:58)here a (cid:78)ey mana(cid:74)ement personnel  left prior to the end of the year, the balance re(cid:192)ects the holdin(cid:74) at the time of resi(cid:74)nation.
Changes to balances for non-executive Directors do not relate to remuneration for services provided to the Company. 

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Conditional awards provided as remuneration
(cid:51)erformance Share (cid:51)lan(cid:30) Management Share (cid:51)lan(cid:30) (cid:37)onus Deferral (cid:51)lan
No conditional awards of ordinary shares of either (cid:40)RA or of Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited or Rio Tinto plc were provided during the year as 
remuneration for services provided to (cid:40)RA to any of the non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors. Details of conditional awards of ordinary shares in 
Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited and Rio Tinto plc held during the year and provided as remuneration to each of the key management personnel of 
(cid:40)RA in respect of their duties as officers of (cid:40)RA are set out below. (cid:58)hen e(cid:91)ercisable(cid:15) each award converts into one ordinary share of 
Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited or Rio Tinto plc. 

BALANCE  
AT START 
OF THE 
YEAR OR 
ON JOINING1

GRANTED 
AS REMU-
NERATION VESTED LAPSED

AWARDS 
CAN-
CELLED

OTHER 
CHANGES2

BALANCE 
AT END 
OF YEAR3

2014

2013

2014

2013

2013

2014

2013

2014

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2014

2,039

3,523

78

85

(1,568)

(1,569)

8,953

8,953

2,438

(1,564)

-

-

13,881

11,236

(2,310)

4,796

3,176

1,799

3,576

3,300

2,845

1,339

6,498

5,242

13,926

11,067

13,482

6,296

32,374

42,849

1,581

2.322

-

(899)

(702)

-

1,128

(1,033)

1,125

1,486

1,506

(849)

-

-

1,770

(1,644)

2,621

(1,365)

-

-

-

-

-

-

(4,069)

(1,786)

(1,188)

-

(1,515)

(1,479)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(144)

-

(197)

-

-

(107)

-

-

(129)

-

-

-

(207)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

405

2,039

9,630

8,953

22,807

5,371

4,796

1,799

3,542

3,576

4,331

2,845

6,417

6,498

4,143

4,645

14,000

13,926

10,688

22,982

7,186

13,482

158

114

31,017

41,484

Rio Tinto plc

Key management personnel

S Thibeault

Rio Tinto Limited

Executive directors

A Sutton

R Atkinson

Key management personnel

T (cid:40)ckersley

J May

G Sinclair

S Thibeault

A Tietzel

Non-executive directors4

P Taylor

H Newell

J Farrell

B Cox

Note 1 
Note 2 

Note 3 
Note 4 

(cid:58)here a (cid:78)ey mana(cid:74)ement personnel (cid:77)oined durin(cid:74) the year, balance at start of the year re(cid:192)ects holdin(cid:74)s at time of commencement with (cid:40)(cid:53)(cid:36).
Other chan(cid:74)es and end of year balance include chan(cid:74)es made in relation to awards for service within the wider (cid:53)io (cid:55)into (cid:42)roup, includin(cid:74) before (cid:77)oinin(cid:74) or after 
ceasin(cid:74) with (cid:40)(cid:53)(cid:36), and (cid:53)io (cid:55)into (cid:53)i(cid:74)hts (cid:44)ssue ad(cid:77)ustments to accrued balances. 
(cid:58)hen a (cid:78)ey mana(cid:74)ement personnel left prior to the end of the year, the balance re(cid:192)ects holdin(cid:74)s at the date of resi(cid:74)nation.
Changes to balances for non-executive Directors do not relate to remuneration for services provided to the Company.

80

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Shareholdings 
The number of shares held in (cid:40)RA or Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited during the financial year by each Director of (cid:40)RA are set out below.

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd

P McMahon

R Atkinson

H Newell

Rio Tinto Limited

P McMahon

R Atkinson

A Sutton

D Klingner

P Taylor

J Pegler

J Farrell

B Cox

BALANCE  
AT START OF  
THE YEAR1

RECEIVED 
DURING THE 
YEAR

OTHER  
CHANGES  
DURING  
THE YEAR

BALANCE  
AT END OF  
THE YEAR2

2014

2013

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2013

2014

2013

2013

2014

2013

2014

2013

2014

2014

42,500

-

-

161

161

18,405

18,405

888

8,895

8,895

29,787

28,121

23,528

6,331

6,331

19,131

5,395

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,001

1,880

-

-

5,683

5,405

-

-

1,788

1,476

-

42,500

22,958

-

-

-

-

(2,001)

(1,564)

-

-

-

(812)

-

-

(1,515)

(1,476)

42,500

42,500

22,958

161

161

18,405

18,405

888

9,211

8,895

29,787

33,804

28,121

6,331

6,331

19,404

5,395

Note 1 
Note 2 

(cid:58)here a Director was appointed durin(cid:74) the year, balance re(cid:192)ects holdin(cid:74)s at the time of commencement with the (cid:38)ompany. 
(cid:58)here a Director resi(cid:74)ned durin(cid:74) the year, balance re(cid:192)ects holdin(cid:74)s at time of resi(cid:74)nation as a Director of the (cid:38)ompany.

G 
Additional information
Further details relating to options

Value of options exercised during the year

2014

2013

VALUE OF 
OPTIONS 
EXERCISED 
DURING THE 
YEAR

MARKET PRICE 
AT DATE OF 
EXERCISE

(cid:7)(cid:25)(cid:25)(cid:15)1(cid:28)(cid:28)

-

(cid:7)5(cid:27).(cid:26)(cid:27)

-

Loans and other transactions with Directors and other key management personnel
There are no loans with Directors and other key management personnel. (cid:50)ther transactions with Director related entities are disclosed 
in Note 2(cid:23) (cid:177) related parties.

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DIRECTORS’ REPORT

(cid:51)rincipal activities
The principal activities of the Company during the course of the 
year consisted of the mining, processing and sale of uranium 
o(cid:91)ide.

Dividends
No dividends have been paid by (cid:40)RA to members in respect of 
the 201(cid:23) financial year.  

(cid:50)perating and financial review
Details of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s review and results of operations are included in 
the Chairman(cid:182)s Report on page (cid:25)(cid:15) the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s Report 
on page (cid:27) and the (cid:50)perating and (cid:41)inancial Review section on 
page 12.

Significant changes to the state of affairs
(cid:44)n the opinion of the Directors(cid:15) other than matters reported in 
the Directors(cid:182) Report(cid:15) the Chairman(cid:182)s Report and the Chief 
(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s Report(cid:15) there were no significant changes in the state 
of affairs of the consolidated entity during the year ended 31 
December 201(cid:23).

Matters subse(cid:84)uent to the end of the financial 
year
There has not arisen in the interval between the end of the year 
and the date of this report any item(cid:15) transaction or event of a 
material nature that has significantly affected or may significantly 
affect:
(cid:11)i(cid:12) 
(cid:11)ii(cid:12) 
(iii)  

the operations of the consolidated entity(cid:30)
the results of those operations(cid:30) or
the state of affairs of the consolidated entity subsequent  
to the financial year ended 31 December 201(cid:23).

(cid:47)ikely developments
(cid:44)n the opinion of the Directors(cid:15) any other likely developments in 
the operations of the consolidated entity known at the date of this 
report have been covered within the Annual Report and Notes to 
the financial statements.

A general review of developments for (cid:40)RA is presented in the 
(cid:50)perating and (cid:41)inancial Review section on page 12.

Annual General Meeting
The 201(cid:23) Annual (cid:42)eneral Meeting will be held on 1(cid:23) April 2015 in 
Darwin(cid:15) in the Northern Territory of Australia. Notices of the 2015 
Annual General Meeting are set out in separate letters to the 
shareholders  of the Company. 

(cid:44)ndemnification
Clause 11 of the Company(cid:182)s constitution provides that every 
Director(cid:15) manager(cid:15) officer or employee of the Company shall be 
indemnified out of the funds of the Company against all liability 
incurred by them in defending any proceedings in which they are 
successful.  

The Corporations Act 2001 prohibits a company from 
indemnifying Directors(cid:15) secretaries(cid:15) e(cid:91)ecutive officers and 
auditors from liability except for liability to a party, other than the 
Company or a related body corporate(cid:15) where the liability does not 
arise out of conduct involving a lack of good faith and e(cid:91)cept for 
liability for costs and expenses incurred in defending proceedings 
in which the officer or auditor is successful. An indemnity for 
officers or employees who are not Directors(cid:15) secretaries or 
e(cid:91)ecutive officers(cid:15) is not e(cid:91)pressly prohibited by the Corporations 
Act 2001.

The Directors and Company Secretary of the Company, and all 
former Directors and Company Secretaries(cid:15) have the benefit of 
the indemnity in Clause 11 of the Company(cid:182)s constitution.

The indemnity also applies to e(cid:91)ecutive officers of the Company 
(cid:11)being the Chief (cid:41)inancial (cid:50)fficer and (cid:42)eneral Managers and 
other key management personnel and managers who are 
concerned with(cid:15) or take part in the management of the Company(cid:12) 
as well as other employees.

Insurance
Since the end of the previous financial year(cid:15) the Company has 
paid insurance premiums in respect of a Directors(cid:182) and officers(cid:182) 
liability policy of insurance.

The policy indemnifies all Directors and officers of (cid:40)RA and its 
controlled entities (including the Directors, Company Secretaries, 
and e(cid:91)ecutive officers referred to above(cid:12) against certain liabilities.
(cid:44)n accordance with common commercial practice(cid:15) the insurance 
policy prohibits disclosure of the nature of the liability insured 
against and the amount of the premium.

(cid:40)nvironmental regulation and policy
(cid:40)RA strives to be at the forefront of environmental management 
in the uranium industry. (cid:44)t operates in accordance with relevant 
Commonwealth and Northern Territory environmental legislation 
as well as site specific environmental licences(cid:15) permits and 
statutory authorisations. (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s environmental management 
system is (cid:44)S(cid:50)1(cid:23)001 compliant.

(cid:40)RA is re(cid:84)uired to report any incident that is a divergence from 
strict compliance with statutory re(cid:84)uirements(cid:15) even if the incident 
has no detrimental environmental impact(cid:15) and reports are made 
to the Department of Mines and (cid:40)nergy (cid:11)Northern Territory(cid:12)(cid:30) 
the Supervising Scientist of the Commonwealth Department of 
(cid:40)nvironment(cid:30) the Northern (cid:47)and Council(cid:30) the Commonwealth 
Department of (cid:44)ndustry and Science and the (cid:42)und(cid:77)eihmi 
Aboriginal Corporation (cid:11)representatives of the Mirarr Traditional 
(cid:50)wners(cid:12).

(cid:40)RA(cid:182)s commitment to protect the environment in 201(cid:23) was 
confirmed by the Supervising Scientist(cid:15) which conducts e(cid:91)tensive 
monitoring and research programs. There were no reported 
incidents that resulted in any environmental impact off the 
immediate mine site. The environment remained protected 
through the period.

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There were no prosecutions commenced or fines incurred in 
respect of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s environmental performance during 201(cid:23). 
(cid:41)urther details of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s environmental performance are included 
in the (cid:179)(cid:40)nvironment(cid:180) section of the Annual Report on page (cid:23)1. 

Corporate governance
The (cid:37)oard of (cid:40)RA considers high standards of corporate 
governance to be critical to business integrity and performance. 
The corporate governance structures and practices in place 
at (cid:40)RA are substantially in compliance with the Corporate 
(cid:42)overnance (cid:51)rinciples and Recommendations (cid:177) Second (cid:40)dition 
developed by the Australian Securities (cid:40)(cid:91)change Corporate 
(cid:42)overnance Council (cid:11)(cid:179)Council(cid:180)(cid:12).

Areas where the corporate governance practices of (cid:40)RA do not 
follow the Council(cid:182)s recommendations arise due to Rio Tinto(cid:182)s 
(cid:25)(cid:27).(cid:23) per cent ownership of the Company and the management 
direction(cid:15) services and support this provides. The e(cid:91)tent to 
which the Company does not comply is detailed in the Corporate 
(cid:42)overnance Statement on pages (cid:27)5 to (cid:27)(cid:28). 

Rounding of amounts
The Company is of a kind referred to in AS(cid:44)C Class (cid:50)rder 
(cid:28)(cid:27)(cid:18)0100 and in accordance with that Class (cid:50)rder amounts in the 
financial statements and Directors(cid:182) Report have been rounded to 
the nearest thousand dollars(cid:15) unless otherwise indicated.

Auditors
(cid:51)ricewaterhouseCoopers are the auditors of the Company. No 
person who was an officer of the Company during the year was a 
former partner or director of the auditors. (cid:40)ach of the Directors at 
the time this report was approved has confirmed that:

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

so far as he or she is aware(cid:15) there is no relevant audit 
information (ie information needed by the auditors in 
connection with preparing their report(cid:12) of which the auditors 
are unaware(cid:30) and
he or she has taken all steps that they ought to have taken 
as a Director in order to make himself or herself aware 
of any relevant audit information and to establish that the 
auditors are aware of that information.

Non audit services
The Company may decide to employ the auditors on assignments 
additional to their statutory audit duties where the auditor(cid:182)s 
e(cid:91)pertise and e(cid:91)perience with the Company are important.

Details of the amount paid or payable to the auditors for audit 
services are set out below.

The Board of Directors has considered the position and, in 
accordance with the advice received from the Audit and Risk 
Committee(cid:15) is satisfied that the provision of non(cid:16)audit services 
is compatible with the general standard of independence for 
auditors imposed by the Corporations Act 2001. All non(cid:16)audit 
services are reviewed by the Audit and Risk Committee to 

ensure they do not impact on the impartiality and ob(cid:77)ectivity of 
the auditors and do not undermine the general principles relating 
to auditors’ independence as set out in Professional Statement 
(cid:41)1(cid:15) including reviewing or auditing the auditors(cid:182) own work(cid:15) 
acting in a management or decision making capacity for the 
Company(cid:15) acting as advocate for the Company or (cid:77)ointly sharing 
economic risks and rewards. Accordingly(cid:15) the Directors have  
satisfied themselves that the provision of non(cid:16)audit services by 
the auditors does not compromise the auditor independence 
requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.

During the year(cid:15) the following fees were paid or payable for 
services provided by the auditors of the Company(cid:15) its related 

practices and non(cid:16)audit related firms.

2014 
$000

2013 
$000

AUDIT SERVICES

(cid:51)ricewaterhouseCoopers 

Audit and review of financial reports 

310

230

Audit and review of financial reports

(additional 2013 fees)

40

-

Total Remuneration for audit 
services

Ta(cid:91)ation services

Non(cid:16)audit services

Total Remuneration

350

230

-

-

-

-

350

230

(cid:44)nformation on Auditor
(cid:51)ricewaterhouseCoopers continues in office in accordance with 
Section 327 of the Corporations Act 2001.

A copy of the auditor’s independence declaration as required 
under section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 is set out on 
page (cid:27)(cid:23).

Signed at (cid:37)risbane this 12 (cid:41)ebruary 2015 in accordance with a 
resolution of the Directors.

P McMahon
Director
Brisbane
12 February 2015

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84

AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION

Auditor’s Independence Declaration

Auditor’s Independence Declaration 

As lead auditor for the audit of Energy Resources of Australia Ltd for the year ended 31 December 2014, 
I declare that to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been: 

a) 

no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in 
relation to the audit; and 

b) 

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

John O'Donoghue 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Melbourne 
12 February 2015 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757  
Freshwater Place, 2 Southbank Boulevard, SOUTHBANK  VIC  3006, GPO Box 1331, MELBOURNE  VIC  3001 
T: 61 3 8603 1000, F: 61 3 8603 1999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

 
 
 
 
 
 
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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Corporate Governance Statement
Corporate Governance Statement

The (cid:37)oard of (cid:40)RA considers high standards of corporate 
governance to be critical to business integrity and performance 
and to ma(cid:91)imise the overall long term return to shareholders. 
The (cid:37)oard seeks to ensure that (cid:40)RA meets the ob(cid:77)ectives of 
its shareholders(cid:15) while paying proper regard to the interests of 
employees and e(cid:91)ternal stakeholders. 

The corporate governance structures and practices in place at 
(cid:40)RA are substantially in compliance with the 2nd (cid:40)dition of the 
Corporate (cid:42)overnance (cid:51)rinciples and Recommendations with 
2010 Amendments (cid:11)(cid:179)(cid:51)rinciples(cid:180)(cid:12) developed by the Australian 
Securities (cid:40)(cid:91)change (cid:11)(cid:179)AS(cid:59)(cid:180)(cid:12) Corporate (cid:42)overnance Council 
(cid:11)(cid:179)Council(cid:180)(cid:12).

The (cid:37)oard has considered the Council(cid:182)s (cid:51)rinciples(cid:15) and (cid:40)RA 
did not comply with the following recommendations for the 
whole of the reporting period: 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

Recommendation 2.1 (cid:177) there was not a ma(cid:77)ority of 
independent Directors(cid:30) and 
Recommendation 2.(cid:23) (cid:177) there was no established 
nominations committee.

Areas where the corporate governance practices in place at 
(cid:40)RA do not follow the recommendations set out in the Council(cid:182)s 
(cid:51)rinciples arise due to Rio Tinto(cid:182)s ownership of (cid:25)(cid:27).(cid:23) per cent 
of the shares of the Company and the management direction, 
services and support provided by Rio Tinto. As e(cid:91)plained further 
below(cid:15) the (cid:37)oard considers that in each case this is appropriate. 
The Corporate (cid:42)overnance section of the Company(cid:182)s website 
(www.energyres.com.au) sets out the further information 
re(cid:84)uired by the Council(cid:182)s (cid:51)rinciples.

The Board 

Responsibilities and charter
(cid:44)n carrying out its responsibilities and powers(cid:15) the (cid:37)oard at all 
times recognises its overriding responsibility to act honestly(cid:15) 
fairly(cid:15) diligently and in accordance with the law in serving the 
interests of the (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s shareholders and employees and the 
community.

The Board Charter underpins the strategic guidance and 
effective management oversight provided by the (cid:37)oard(cid:15) and 
defines the division of responsibility between (cid:37)oard and 
management by formal delegation and a system of Board 
reserve powers. 

The (cid:37)oard approves strategy and business plans and monitors 
the performance of (cid:40)RA against these plans. The (cid:37)oard also 
monitors compliance with policies prescribed by the (cid:37)oard in 
areas such as health and safety(cid:15) environment(cid:15) business ethics(cid:15) 
internal control and risk management. These policies are 
designed to ensure that (cid:40)RA meets or e(cid:91)ceeds the regulatory 
re(cid:84)uirements governing its operations. 

(cid:44)n addition to the matters e(cid:91)pressly re(cid:84)uired by law to be 
approved by the (cid:37)oard(cid:15) the powers specifically reserved for the 
(cid:37)oard are as follows:

(cid:11)a(cid:12) 

(cid:11)b(cid:12)   
(c) 

(d) 

(cid:11)e(cid:12) 

confirming the appointment and removal of a Chief  
(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive proposed by Rio Tinto and the terms and  
conditions of the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s employment(cid:30)
appointment and removal of a Company Secretary(cid:30)
appointment of the Chair of the Board and members of  
(cid:37)oard Committees(cid:30)
any matters set out in the Schedule of Matters    
Reserved for Decision or Consideration by the (cid:37)oard(cid:30)  
and
approval(cid:15) sub(cid:77)ect to the Constitution(cid:15) the Corporations  
Act 2001 and the AS(cid:59) (cid:47)isting Rules(cid:15) of each of the  
following:
(cid:11)i(cid:12) 

(ii) 

(cid:11)iii(cid:12) 
(cid:11)v(cid:12) 

(cid:11)vi(cid:12) 

(cid:11)vii(cid:12) 
(cid:11)viii(cid:12) 

(ix) 

the issue of new shares or other securities in  
the Company(cid:30)
incurring of debt (other than trade creditors  
incurred in the normal course of business)
capital e(cid:91)penditure in e(cid:91)cess of (cid:7)5(cid:15)000(cid:15)000(cid:30)
the ac(cid:84)uisition(cid:15) divestment or establishment of  
any significant business assets(cid:30)
changes to the discretions delegated from the  
(cid:37)oard(cid:30)
the annual operating budget plan(cid:30) 
changes to the capital and operating approval  
limits of senior management(cid:30) and
the annual report and interim and preliminary  
final reports.

Composition
(cid:41)rom 1 January 201(cid:23) to 2(cid:26) November 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the (cid:37)oard of (cid:40)RA 
consisted of si(cid:91) Directors(cid:15) five of whom were non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive.  
(cid:50)n 2(cid:26) November 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the number of Directors was increased 
to seven with the addition of Mr Co(cid:91) as a non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive 
Director. During 201(cid:23)(cid:15) Mr McMahon was the Chairman and an 
independent(cid:15) non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Director.  Dr (cid:42)arnett and Mr (cid:51)egler 
served as independent(cid:15) non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors.  Mr Taylor(cid:15) 
Ms Newell(cid:15) Ms (cid:41)arrell and Mr Co(cid:91)(cid:15) who are e(cid:91)ecutives of Rio 
Tinto(cid:15) also served as non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors.  Ms Sutton is an 
e(cid:91)ecutive Director and holds the position of Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive.

(cid:50)n 11 June 201(cid:23)(cid:15) Ms Newell resigned as a Director. Ms (cid:41)arrell 
was appointed as a Director on the same date.

The (cid:37)oard strives to achieve a diversity of skills(cid:15) e(cid:91)perience and 
perspective among its Directors. Details of the Directors(cid:15) their 
e(cid:91)perience(cid:15) (cid:84)ualifications and other appointments are set out on 
pages 5(cid:27) to 5(cid:28). Details of the independent status of Directors is 
outlined in the (cid:44)ndependence section below.

(cid:52)ualification for (cid:37)oard membership is driven by the principle that 
the (cid:37)oard(cid:182)s composition should re(cid:192)ect the right balance of skills(cid:15) 
knowledge and diversity that the (cid:37)oard considers will best serve 
the interests of (cid:40)RA and all of its shareholders. Decisions relating 
to appointment of Directors are made by the full (cid:37)oard. Directors 

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

appointed by the (cid:37)oard are re(cid:84)uired by (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s Constitution to 
submit themselves for election by shareholders at the Annual 
(cid:42)eneral Meeting following their appointment. There is no share 
ownership (cid:84)ualification for appointment as a Director. 

The (cid:37)oard has not established a nominations committee. The 
(cid:37)oard recognises that this does not follow Recommendation 2.(cid:23) 
of the Council(cid:182)s (cid:51)rinciples. The (cid:37)oard considers that its e(cid:91)isting 
practices in reviewing director competencies(cid:15) (cid:37)oard succession 
planning(cid:15) (cid:37)oard performance evaluation and Director selection 
and nomination carried out in accordance with the (cid:37)oard Charter(cid:15) 
are satisfactory and appropriate given the si(cid:93)e of the (cid:37)oard and 
(cid:40)RA(cid:182)s current ownership structure. 

Mr McMahon was nominated to the (cid:37)oard by Rio Tinto in 
November 2012. Mr McMahon was previously an e(cid:91)ecutive of 
Rio Tinto(cid:15) however(cid:15) a sufficient period of time (cid:11)three years(cid:12) had 
elapsed since he ceased employment with Rio Tinto. The (cid:37)oard 
is satisfied that Mr McMahon has no continuing relationship with 
Rio Tinto that would interfere with his independent e(cid:91)ercise of 
(cid:77)udgement and that he is an independent director.

For the reporting period, the Board of Directors did not consist 
of a ma(cid:77)ority of independent Directors. This does not follow 
Recommendation 2.1 of the Council(cid:182)s (cid:51)rinciples. The (cid:37)oard 
considered it was appropriate that the composition of the (cid:37)oard 
recognised Rio Tinto(cid:182)s (cid:25)(cid:27).(cid:23) per cent shareholding. 

Non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors are re(cid:84)uired to retire at least every 
three years in accordance with (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s Constitution(cid:15) but may offer 
themselves for re(cid:16)election. 

All Directors are required to, and do, bring an independent 
(cid:77)udgment to bear on (cid:37)oard decisions and act in accordance with 
their statutory duties of good faith and for a proper purpose, and 
in the interests of all shareholders. 

(cid:44)ndependence
For the purposes of determining Director independence, the 
(cid:37)oard considers any material business relationship which 
could interfere(cid:15) or be perceived to interfere(cid:15) with the Director(cid:182)s 
independence of (cid:77)udgement(cid:15) ability to provide a strong(cid:15) valuable 
contribution to the Board’s deliberations and the Director’s ability 
to act in the best interests of (cid:40)RA and all shareholders. (cid:58)here 
contracts in the ordinary course of business e(cid:91)ist between (cid:40)RA 
and a company in which a Director has declared an interest(cid:15) 
these are reviewed for materiality to both (cid:40)RA and the other party 
to the contract. 

The following may be taken into account in considering such 
material business relationships:

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

whether(cid:15) within the last three years(cid:15) the Director or a 
close family member has been a member of e(cid:91)ecutive 
management of (cid:40)RA(cid:15) employed in a senior position with a 
member of the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup or has received additional 
remuneration from the Company or a member of the 
Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:30)
whether the Director or a close family member is(cid:15) or is 
associated with(cid:15) a substantial shareholder (cid:11)more than 5 per 
cent of the voting shares(cid:12) in the Company or in a member of 
the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:30)
the Director(cid:182)s cross directorships of or significant links with 
or involvement in other companies(cid:30) 
the Director(cid:182)s length of service on the (cid:37)oard(cid:30) and
whether(cid:15) within the last three years(cid:15) the Director or a close 
family member has had, either directly or indirectly and 
whether as principal(cid:15) employee or consultant(cid:15) a material 
business relationship with (cid:40)RA or with a member of the 
Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) whether as an auditor(cid:15) professional adviser(cid:15) 
supplier(cid:15) or customer (cid:11)(cid:179)material(cid:180) being more than five per 
cent of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s or the counterparty(cid:182)s consolidated gross 
revenue per annum(cid:12).

Dr (cid:42)arnett and Mr (cid:51)egler are independent non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive 
Directors. 

All related party transactions(cid:15) including those with Rio Tinto(cid:15) have 
been determined by the independent Directors to be on arm’s 
length terms and in the interests of (cid:40)RA. 

Chairman and Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive
The Chairman(cid:15) Mr McMahon(cid:15) is an independent non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive 
Director. Mr McMahon(cid:182)s other appointments are set out on page 
5(cid:27). The (cid:37)oard considers that none of his other commitments 
interfere with the discharge of his duties to (cid:40)RA. 

The Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive is Ms Sutton(cid:15) who is also a Director. This is 
consistent with Recommendation 2.3 of the Council(cid:182)s (cid:51)rinciples 
that the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and Chairman be different people.

Board meetings
The (cid:37)oard held si(cid:91) scheduled meetings and seven e(cid:91)traordinary 
meetings during 201(cid:23). (cid:44)n addition(cid:15) there were nine meetings held 
in 201(cid:23) of subcommittees established by the (cid:37)oard. The (cid:37)oard 
meeting attendance details for Directors in 2014 are set out on 
page (cid:25)2.

Performance self assessment
(cid:44)n 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the (cid:37)oard performed an evaluation of itself that:

(a)  considered the performance of the Directors and the Board 
and the adequacy of the Board’s structures and processes, 
including the (cid:37)oard Charter(cid:30) 

(cid:11)b(cid:12)  set out goals and ob(cid:77)ectives of the (cid:37)oard for the upcoming  

year(cid:30) and

(cid:11)c(cid:12)  considered whether any improvements or changes to the 

Board structures and processes, including the Board Charter 
and Audit and Risk Committee Charter(cid:15) were necessary or 
desirable.

The process of evaluation and self assessment took the form 
of a questionnaire completed by each of the Directors and 
the Company Secretary. (cid:41)ollowing collation by an e(cid:91)ternal 

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

consultant, the results and the adequacy and appropriateness 
of the self assessment process were compiled. A report outlining 
the results was circulated to all Directors and discussed at the 
following (cid:37)oard meeting(cid:15) where actions arising were agreed. 

financial statements(cid:15) accounting policies(cid:15) control systems(cid:15) risk 
management practices and ta(cid:91)ation issues(cid:15) and for liaison with 
the e(cid:91)ternal and internal auditors. The Committee also reviews 
the ade(cid:84)uacy of internal and e(cid:91)ternal audit arrangements.

(cid:44)ndependent professional advice
The (cid:37)oard has adopted a procedure for Directors wishing to seek 
independent professional advice(cid:15) at the Company(cid:182)s e(cid:91)pense(cid:15) in 
the furtherance of their duties. The (cid:37)oard recognises that there 
may be circumstances in which individual Directors are entitled 
to independent professional advice(cid:15) at the Company(cid:182)s e(cid:91)pense(cid:15) 
in the furtherance of their duties, and any Director may do so by 
arrangement with the Company Secretary.

The Audit and Risk Committee advises the (cid:37)oard of any matters 
that might have a significant impact on the financial condition 
of (cid:40)RA and has the authority to investigate any matters within 
its terms of reference(cid:15) having full access to the information and 
resources of (cid:40)RA to fulfil its function. Related party transactions 
are considered by the Audit and Risk Committee. The Audit and 
Risk Committee reviews compliance with the Corporations Act 
2001, and the requirements of the ASX and other regulatory 
re(cid:84)uirements.

Remuneration
(cid:40)RA(cid:182)s Constitution provides that the aggregate remuneration 
paid to non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive Directors of (cid:40)RA in any one year will not 
e(cid:91)ceed (cid:7)(cid:27)00(cid:15)000 or such other amount as may be approved 
by shareholders from time to time.  At the 201(cid:23) Annual (cid:42)eneral 
Meeting(cid:15) the 2013 Remuneration Report was approved with 
(cid:28)1.2(cid:26) per cent of shareholders who cast a vote voting in favour 
(cid:11)voting comprised 3(cid:25)3(cid:15)(cid:27)3(cid:26)(cid:15)(cid:26)(cid:25)5 votes (cid:181)for(cid:182) the resolution and 
3(cid:23)(cid:15)(cid:27)1(cid:25)(cid:15)512 votes (cid:181)against(cid:182) the resolution(cid:12). North (cid:47)imited and 
(cid:51)eko(cid:16)(cid:58)allsend (cid:51)ty (cid:47)td(cid:15) which are both Rio Tinto entities(cid:15) voted a 
combined total of 35(cid:23)(cid:15)0(cid:26)(cid:27)(cid:15)(cid:27)5(cid:23) votes (cid:181)for(cid:182) the resolution.

(cid:44)n 2012(cid:15) the (cid:37)oard established a Remuneration Committee. At 31 
December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the Remuneration Committee comprised three 
non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive independent Directors(cid:15) being Mr (cid:51)egler (cid:11)Chair(cid:12)(cid:15) 
Dr (cid:42)arnett and Mr McMahon. A ma(cid:77)ority of members constitutes 
a (cid:84)uorum for a meeting. The Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive may be invited to 
attend Remuneration Committee meetings. (cid:50)ther e(cid:91)ecutives may 
also be invited to discuss or report on particular agenda items. 

The Remuneration Committee Charter sets out the role and 
ob(cid:77)ectives of the Remuneration Committee.  A summary of the 
ob(cid:77)ectives of the Remuneration Committee is set out on page 
(cid:25)3 of the Remuneration Report.  The complete Remuneration 
Committee Charter is available at the Corporate (cid:42)overnance 
section of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s website.

Audit and Risk committee
The Audit and Risk Committee is appointed by the (cid:37)oard and at 
31 December 201(cid:23) comprised three non(cid:16)e(cid:91)ecutive independent 
Directors. Two Directors constitute a (cid:84)uorum. The present 
members of the Audit and Risk Committee are Dr (cid:42)arnett 
(cid:11)Chair(cid:12)(cid:15) Mr (cid:51)egler and Mr McMahon. The Company(cid:182)s Chief 
(cid:41)inancial (cid:50)fficer(cid:15) Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and (cid:47)egal Counsel (cid:9) Company 
Secretary, the external auditor and the internal auditors are 
invited to attend all meetings. 

The Audit and Risk Committee Charter sets out the role and 
terms of reference of the Audit and Risk Committee and is 
reviewed regularly. The Audit and Risk Committee Charter is 
available at the Corporate (cid:42)overnance section of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s website.

The Committee provides a formal structure for reviewing (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s 

The Audit and Risk Committee held three scheduled meetings 
during 201(cid:23) and one e(cid:91)traordinary meeting.  Attendance details 
of the 201(cid:23) meetings of the Audit and Risk Committee(cid:15) and the 
(cid:84)ualifications and e(cid:91)perience of the members(cid:15) are set out in the 
Directors(cid:182) Report on pages (cid:25)2 and 5(cid:27) to 5(cid:28) respectively.

Each year the external auditor submits a schedule of audit 
services and fee estimate to the Audit and Risk Committee 
for consideration and approval. (cid:51)ricewaterhouseCoopers has 
been (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s e(cid:91)ternal auditor for a number of years. (cid:40)ach year(cid:15) 
the Audit and Risk Committee reviews the effectiveness of the 
e(cid:91)ternal audit process and the independence of the auditor. 
(cid:37)ased on its 201(cid:23) review(cid:15) the Audit and Risk Committee was 
satisfied with the e(cid:91)ternal audit process and that the e(cid:91)ternal 
auditor remained independent. Any work to be conducted by the 
e(cid:91)ternal auditor other than the audit is approved by the Audit and 
Risk Committee.

Details of the fees paid to (cid:51)ricewaterhouseCoopers during 201(cid:23) 
are outlined on page (cid:27)3. 

Diversity 
(cid:40)RA acknowledges the benefits that (cid:192)ow from advancing (cid:37)oard 
and employee diversity(cid:15) in particular gender and (cid:44)ndigenous 
diversity. These benefits include identification and rectification 
of gaps in the skills and e(cid:91)perience of Directors and employees(cid:15) 
enhanced employee retention(cid:15) greater innovation and 
ma(cid:91)imisation of available talent to achieve corporate goals and 
increased financial performance.

Diversity in the conte(cid:91)t of the Company primarily refers to 
groups which are under represented in its workforce. (cid:40)RA has a 
particular focus on the representation of women and (cid:44)ndigenous 
people in its workforce. (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s policy on diversity can be found on 
the Company(cid:182)s website at www.energyres.com.au. (cid:44)n accordance 
with the Company(cid:182)s diversity policy(cid:15) (cid:40)RA has set measurable 
ob(cid:77)ectives to achieve diversity. The ob(cid:77)ectives and the Company(cid:182)s 
progress in achieving each ob(cid:77)ective is set out below:

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

OBJECTIVE

OUTCOME

(cid:58)omen to represent 20 per 
cent of the management 
(cid:11)being manager level and 
above(cid:12) and the (cid:37)oard by end 
of 201(cid:23).

Target of 33 per cent 
(cid:44)ndigenous people and 25 per 
cent female participation in 
new apprenticeships by end 
of 201(cid:23). 

As at 31 December 2014 female 
participation at manager, general 
manager and (cid:37)oard level is 
1(cid:27) per cent. (cid:58)omen comprise 
(cid:23)3 per cent of Directors. Total 
female participation is 18 per 
cent.

As at 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) (cid:40)RA 
has nine full time apprentices, 
three of whom are (cid:44)ndigenous 
(cid:11)33 percent(cid:12). (cid:44)n addition(cid:15) 
(cid:40)RA has three school based 
apprentices.

Target (cid:44)ndigenous 
employment of 20 per cent by 
the end of 201(cid:23). 

(cid:40)RA ended 201(cid:23) with an 
(cid:44)ndigenous employment rate of 
12 per cent.

As at 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the proportion of women employed by 
(cid:40)RA was as follows:

(cid:11)(cid:179)Rules for dealing(cid:180)(cid:12) apply to the participation of (cid:40)RA e(cid:91)ecutives 
in the Rio Tinto long term incentive plans involving the awarding 
of Rio Tinto securities at a future date.  Any such grants of 
shares and options under the Rio Tinto plans are sub(cid:77)ect to and 
conditional upon compliance with the terms of the Rules for 
dealing, including an express prohibition on hedging or limiting of 
e(cid:91)posure to economic risk in relation to such securities.  

(cid:56)nder the (cid:40)RA Share Trading (cid:51)olicy:
(cid:135) 

Directors and senior managers must advise the Chairman in 
writing(cid:15) and receive approval in writing from the Chairman(cid:15) 
if they intend to purchase or sell (cid:40)RA securities. (cid:44)n regard 
to his own dealings(cid:15) the Chairman is re(cid:84)uired to notify the 
Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.
No dealings in (cid:40)RA securities may take place for the period 
from the end of any relevant financial period to the trading 
day following announcement of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s annual results or half 
year results.

(cid:135) 

Particulars of the interests held by Directors are outlined on page 
(cid:25)2 of the Remuneration Report.

Board of directors

(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive committee 
and managers

Company

43% 

18%

18%

Risk identification and management 
(cid:40)RA has in place a range of policies and procedures to manage 
the risks associated with its operating activities. These policies 
and procedures have been adopted by the (cid:37)oard(cid:15) with primary 
oversight by the Audit and Risk Committee(cid:15) to ensure that 
potential business risks are identified and appropriate action 
taken. 

Code of business conduct 
(cid:40)RA has a Code of (cid:37)usiness Conduct to be met by all employees 
and Directors. All employees are re(cid:84)uired to maintain high 
standards of ethical behaviour in the e(cid:91)ecution of their duties and 
comply with all applicable laws and regulations in Australia and in 
every other country in which the Company engages in business. 
The Code of (cid:37)usiness Conduct is reviewed to ensure it 
adequately addresses the issues facing the Company and is 
available for inspection on the Corporate (cid:42)overnance section of 
the Company(cid:182)s website at www.energyres.com.au.
(cid:44)n addition to the Company(cid:182)s Code of (cid:37)usiness Conduct(cid:15) the 
Company(cid:182)s employees are re(cid:84)uired to comply with Rio Tinto(cid:182)s 
statement of business practice The Way We Work(cid:15) available at 
Rio Tinto(cid:182)s website at www.riotinto.com.
The Company has a confidential whistleblower programme 
known as (cid:181)Speak(cid:16)(cid:50)(cid:56)T(cid:182). (cid:40)mployees are encouraged to report any 
suspicion of unethical or illegal practices.

Purchase and sale of Company securities 
(cid:40)RA has in place a formal policy that reinforces to all Directors(cid:15) 
officers and employees the prohibitions against insider trading. 
The Share Trading (cid:51)olicy is available for inspection at the 
Corporate (cid:42)overnance section of the Company(cid:182)s website at 
www.energyres.com.au. 

(cid:44)n addition(cid:15) the (cid:179)Rules for dealing in securities of Rio Tinto(cid:180) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

The management of risk is an integral part of the responsibility 
of both the Board and management and is carried out through 
an integrated risk management assurance process including an 
internal audit programme delivered by the Company(cid:182)s internal 
auditors and a detailed internal control process covering all of 
(cid:40)RA(cid:182)s material business risks. 

(cid:40)RA benefits from the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:182)s knowledge(cid:15) policies 
and practices on risk management and corporate assurance(cid:15) 
developed to manage Rio Tinto(cid:182)s diverse business activities 
covering a variety of commodities and operational locations. 
Together(cid:15) these make up a comprehensive framework and 
approach to risk analysis and risk management. The (cid:37)oard has 
in place a number of systems to identify and manage business 
risks. 

These include:
(cid:135) 

the identification and review of all of the business risks 
known to be facing the Company(cid:30)
the provision of reports and information by management to 
the (cid:37)oard(cid:15) on a periodic basis(cid:15) confirming the status and 
effectiveness of the plans(cid:15) controls(cid:15) policies and procedures 
implemented to manage business risks(cid:30)
guidelines for ensuring that capital e(cid:91)penditure and revenue 
commitments e(cid:91)ceeding certain approved limits are placed 
before the (cid:37)oard for approval(cid:30)
limits and controls for all financial e(cid:91)posures(cid:15) including the 
use of derivatives(cid:30)

88

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89

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

a regulatory compliance programme(cid:30) and
safety(cid:15) health and environmental policies which are 
supported by a set of standards and management systems 
which recognise the Company(cid:182)s commitment to achieving 
high standards of performance in all its activities in these 
areas.

(cid:44)n 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the (cid:37)oard undertook an assessment of the strategic 
risks to the Company(cid:182)s business and the mitigation strategies to 
be implemented by management. The strategic risks identified 
through this assessment were management of water(cid:30) cash(cid:192)ow 
over the period 2015 to 201(cid:27)(cid:30) e(cid:91)ploration and the potential 
development of the Ranger 3 Deeps resource(cid:30) stakeholder 
support of the Company(cid:182)s strategic initiatives(cid:30) rehabilitation of the 
Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area(cid:30) internal controls relating to the Company(cid:182)s 
license to operate(cid:30) e(cid:91)ternal events relating to the Company(cid:182)s 
license to operate(cid:30) and access to future tenure and long term 
development options. 

These strategic risks are in addition to risks inherent to the 
mining industry generally which include economic conditions 
(cid:11)(cid:192)uctuations in commodity pricing and e(cid:91)change rates(cid:12)(cid:15) 
international regulation of greenhouse gas emissions and impact 
of climatic conditions.

The Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and Chief (cid:41)inancial (cid:50)fficer give statements(cid:15) 
in writing(cid:15) to the (cid:37)oard regarding the financial reporting and 
operational results being founded on a sound system of internal 
compliance and control and the financial statements giving a true 
and fair view of the Company(cid:182)s position and of the results of the 
Company(cid:182)s operations. These statements rely on (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s sound 
system of risk management and internal compliance and control 
which implements the policies adopted by the (cid:37)oard(cid:15) and confirm 
that (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s risk management and internal compliance and control 
system is operating efficiently and effectively in all material 
respects. (cid:44)n 201(cid:23)(cid:15) all (cid:42)eneral Managers of the Company made a 
declaration that they:
(cid:135) 

understood the key re(cid:84)uirements of each business integrity 
element of the Rio Tinto(cid:182)s The Way We Work(cid:30) and
had actively engaged with their direct reports to:

(cid:135) 

Shareholder communication
(cid:40)RA recognises the importance of effective communication with 
shareholders and the general investment community. Apart from 
(cid:40)RA(cid:182)s compliance with its mandatory continuous disclosure 
obligations(cid:15) (cid:40)RA takes steps to ensure that its shareholders 
and other stakeholders are kept informed. (cid:41)ull advantage is 
taken of the Annual (cid:42)eneral Meeting to inform shareholders of 
current developments and to give shareholders the opportunity 
to ask (cid:84)uestions. As recommended by the Council(cid:182)s (cid:51)rinciples(cid:15) 
(cid:51)ricewaterhouseCoopers(cid:15) (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s e(cid:91)ternal auditor attends the 
Annual (cid:42)eneral Meeting and is available to answer shareholder 
questions about the conduct of the audit and the preparation 
and content of the auditor(cid:182)s report. (cid:40)RA shareholders are also 
able to submit written (cid:84)uestions regarding the statutory audit 
report to the auditor via the Company. Any (cid:84)uestions received 
and answers provided will be made available to members at the 
Annual (cid:42)eneral Meeting. Shareholders who are unable to attend 
meetings are encouraged to appoint a pro(cid:91)y to vote either as 
they direct or at their discretion.

(cid:40)RA believes that investor seminars(cid:15) presentations and briefings 
on financial and operational issues(cid:15) including social and 
environmental performance(cid:15) are valuable ways of communicating 
with relevant professionals(cid:15) employees and other interested 
persons.  The Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and Chief (cid:41)inancial (cid:50)fficer 
conduct regular meetings with the Company(cid:182)s ma(cid:77)or investors 
and analysts(cid:15) and the Company organises investor briefings 
to coincide with the release of half year and full year financial 
results.

(cid:40)RA gives e(cid:84)ual access to information disclosed in investor 
seminars(cid:15) presentations and briefings. (cid:44)f any such event is used 
to disclose new material(cid:15) it will(cid:15) in advance or simultaneously(cid:15) be 
disclosed to the AS(cid:59) and available on (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s website.

(cid:16) promote awareness of the business integrity values(cid:30) and 
(cid:16) ensure compliance with the Company(cid:182)s e(cid:91)pectations 

around each value.

Public statements and disclosure matters
(cid:40)RA makes full and immediate disclosures to its shareholders 
and the market as re(cid:84)uired by(cid:15) and in accordance with(cid:15) its legal 
and regulatory obligations. (cid:40)stablished systems are in place 
to ensure compliance and matters that may have a material 
impact on the price or value of (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s securities are reported to 
the market in accordance with the AS(cid:59) (cid:47)isting Rules and the 
Corporations Act 2001. (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s Continuous Disclosure (cid:51)olicy is 
available on the Company(cid:182)s website at www.energyres.com.au.

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89

90

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Statement of Comprehensive Income
Statement of Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 31 December 2014

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014

Revenue from continuing operations

Changes in inventories

Purchased materials (uranium oxide)

Materials and consumables used

(cid:40)mployee benefits and contractor e(cid:91)penses

(cid:42)overnment and other royalties

Commission and shipping expenses

Depreciation and amortisation expenses

Financing costs

Statutory and corporate expenses

Other expenses

Profit/(loss) before income tax

(cid:44)ncome ta(cid:91) (cid:11)e(cid:91)pense(cid:12)(cid:18)benefit

Profit/(loss) for the year

(cid:50)ther comprehensive income for the year(cid:15) net of ta(cid:91)

Total comprehensive income for the year

Profit/(loss) is attributable to:

(cid:50)wners of (cid:40)nergy Resources of Australia (cid:47)td

Total comprehensive income for the year is attributable to:

(cid:50)wners of (cid:40)nergy Resources of Australia (cid:47)td

Earnings per share for profit/(loss) attributable to the  
ordinary equity holders of the Company:

Basic earnings per share (cents)

Diluted earnings per share (cents)

NOTES

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

3

401,798

370,144

4

4

4

4

5

(124,876)

14,140

(66,933)

(85,300)

-

(88,459)

(215,816)

(172,512)

(15,423)

(2,333)

(18,407)

(10,371)

(119,977)

(232,169)

(29,301)

(11,247)

(4,194)

(32,402)

(10,761)

(5,744)

(273,602)

(186,541)

85,802

50,712

(187,800)

(135,829)

-

-

(187,800)

(135,829)

(187,800)

(135,829)

(187,800)

(135,829)

27

27

(cid:11)3(cid:25).3(cid:12)

(cid:11)3(cid:25).3(cid:12)

(cid:11)2(cid:25).2(cid:12)

(cid:11)2(cid:25).2(cid:12)

The above statement of comprehensive income should be read in con(cid:77)unction with the accompanying notes. 

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91

BALANCE SHEET

Balance Sheet
Balance Sheet

As at 31 December 2014

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2014

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash e(cid:84)uivalents

Trade and other receivables

(cid:44)nventories

Other

Total current assets

Non-current assets

(cid:44)nventories

(cid:56)ndeveloped properties

Property, plant and equipment

Deferred tax assets

(cid:44)nvestment in trust fund

Total non-current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Payables

(cid:44)ncome received in advance

(cid:51)rovisions

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

(cid:51)rovisions

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

EQUITY

Contributed equity

Reserves

Accumulated losses

Total equity

The above balance sheet should be read in con(cid:77)unction with the accompanying notes.

NOTES

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

20

293,318

357,208

11,232

20,107

146,559

248,522

1,392

2,305

452,501

628,142

85,728

203,632

358,485

174,627

66,751

112,584

203,632

530,346

88,897

63,960

889,223

999,419

1,341,724

1,627,561

55,621

14,911

40,552

72,512

-

91,223

111,084

163,735

485,033

485,033

596,117

745,607

529,804

529,804

693,539

934,022

706,485

389,918

706,485

390,533

(350,796)

(162,996)

745,607

934,022

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92

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

Statement of Changes in Equity
Statement of Changes in Equity

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014
For the year ended 31 December 2014

Balance at 1 January 2013

(cid:51)rofit(cid:18)(cid:11)loss(cid:12) for the year

(cid:50)ther comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners:

(cid:40)mployee share options (cid:177) value of employee services

20

Balance at 31 December 2013

(cid:51)rofit(cid:18)(cid:11)loss(cid:12) for the year

(cid:50)ther comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions with owners in their capacity as owners:

(cid:40)mployee share options (cid:177) value of employee services

20

CONTRIBUTED 
EQUITY 
$’000

RESERVES 
$’000

RETAINED 
EARNINGS
$’000

NOTES

TOTAL
$’000

706,485

390,301

(27,167)

1,069,619

-

-

-

-

-

-

232

232

(135,829)

(135,829)

-

-

(135,829)

(135,829)

-

-

232

232

706,485

390,533

(162,996)

934,022

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(187,800)

(187,800)

-

-

(187,800)

(187,800)

(615)

(615)

-

-

(615)

(615)

Balance at 31 December 2014

706,485

389,918

(350,796)

745,607

The above statement of changes in e(cid:84)uity should be read in con(cid:77)unction with the accompanying notes.

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CASH FLOW STATEMENT

Cash Flow Statement
Cash Flow Statement

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014
For the year ended 31 December 2014

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Receipts from customers 

(cid:11)inclusive of (cid:42)oods and Services Ta(cid:91)(cid:12)

Payments to suppliers and employees 

(cid:11)inclusive of (cid:42)oods and Services Ta(cid:91)(cid:12)

(cid:51)ayments for e(cid:91)ploration and evaluation

Payments for rehabilitation

(cid:44)nterest received

Financing costs paid

(cid:44)ncome ta(cid:91)es (cid:11)paid(cid:12)(cid:18)refunded

NOTES

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

448,514

406,432

(368,975)

(294,468)

79,539

(83,205)

(56,977)

7,871

(1,219)

-

111,964

(66,186)

(73,327)

11,161

(1,465)

(29)

(cid:49)et cash (out(cid:192)o(cid:90))/in(cid:192)o(cid:90) from operating activities

26

(53,991)

(17,882)

CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Payments for property, plant and equipment

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Net cash (cid:11)out(cid:192)ow(cid:12)(cid:18)in(cid:192)ow from investing activities

CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES 

Employee share option payments

(cid:49)et cash (out(cid:192)o(cid:90))/in(cid:192)o(cid:90) from financing activities

Net increase(cid:18)(cid:11)decrease(cid:12) in cash and cash e(cid:84)uivalents

Cash and cash e(cid:84)uivalents at the beginning of the financial year

(cid:40)ffects of e(cid:91)change rate changes on cash and cash e(cid:84)uivalents

(11,590)

(91,133)

2,652

(8,938)

-

(91,133)

(962)

(962)

(1,106)

(1,106)

(63,891)

357,208

1

(110,121)

467,345

(16)

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

7

293,318

357,208

The above cash (cid:192)ow statement should be read in con(cid:77)unction with the accompanying notes.

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94

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Notes to the Financial Statements
Notes to the Financial Statements

1 

Summary of significant  
accounting policies

The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation 
of these financial statements are set out below. These policies 
have been consistently applied to all the years presented(cid:15) 
unless otherwise stated. The financial statements are for the 
consolidated entity consisting of (cid:40)nergy Resources of Australia 
(cid:47)td (cid:11)(cid:40)RA(cid:12) and its subsidiaries.

(a)  Basis of preparation
This general purpose financial report has been prepared 
in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and 
interpretations issued by the Australian Accounting Standards 
Board, and the Corporations Act 2001.

(i) Compliance with IFRS 
The financial statements of the Company also comply with 
(cid:44)nternational (cid:41)inancial Reporting Standards (cid:11)(cid:44)(cid:41)RS(cid:12) as issued by 
the (cid:44)nternational Accounting Standards (cid:37)oard (cid:11)(cid:44)AS(cid:37)(cid:12). 

(ii) Historical cost convention
These financial statements have been prepared under the 
historical cost convention.

(iii) Critical accounting estimates
The presentation of financial statements re(cid:84)uires the use of 
certain critical accounting estimates. (cid:44)t also re(cid:84)uires management 
to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the account-
ing policies of the Company. The areas involving a higher degree 
of (cid:77)udgement or comple(cid:91)ity(cid:15) or areas where assumptions and 
estimates are significant to the financial statements are disclosed 
in Note 2.

(b)  Principles of consolidation
(i) Subsidiaries
(cid:50)n 11 September 2013(cid:15) (cid:40)(cid:58)(cid:47) Science (cid:51)ty (cid:47)td was deregistered. 
At the time it was (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s only subsidiary. (cid:40)RA has no other 
subsidiaries and is referred to in the financial report as the 
Company. 

Subsidiaries are all those entities (including special purpose 
entities(cid:12) over which the Company has the power to govern 
the financial and operating policies(cid:15) generally accompanying 
a shareholding of more than one half of the voting rights. The 
e(cid:91)istence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently 
e(cid:91)ercisable or convertible are considered when assessing 
whether the Company controls another entity.

Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control 
is transferred to the Company. They are de(cid:16)consolidated from the 
date that control ceases.

(cid:44)ntercompany transactions(cid:15) balances and unrealised gains 
on transactions between (cid:42)roup companies are eliminated. 
(cid:56)nrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction 
provides evidence of the impairment of the asset transferred. 
Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where 

necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the 
Company.

(cid:11)c(cid:12) Revenue recognition
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration 
received or receivable. Amounts disclosed as revenue are net 
of returns(cid:15) trade allowances(cid:15) rebates and amounts collected on 
behalf of third parties.

The Company recognises revenue when the amount of revenue 
can be reliably measured, it is probable that future economic 
benefits will (cid:192)ow to the entity and specific criteria have been met 
for the Company(cid:182)s activities as described below. The amount 
of revenue is not considered to be reliably measurable until 
all contingencies relating to the sale have been resolved. The 
Company bases its estimates on historical results(cid:15) taking into 
consideration the type of customer, the type of transaction and 
the specifics of each arrangement.

(i) Sale of goods
Sales are brought to account when the products pass from the 
physical control of the Company pursuant to an enforceable 
contract(cid:15) when selling prices are known or can be reasonably 
estimated and when the products are in a form that re(cid:84)uires no 
further treatment by the Company.

(cid:44)n the case where a sale occurs and immediately after which 
(cid:11)part of(cid:12) the goods are borrowed back by the Company under a 
separate agreement(cid:15) the revenue is deferred until repayment of 
the borrowed goods occurs.

(ii) Rendering of services
Revenue from the rendering of services is recognised when the 
service is provided.

(iii) Other revenue/income
(cid:50)ther revenue(cid:18)income recognised by the Company includes:
(cid:135) 

interest income(cid:15) which is recognised on a time proportion 
basis using the effective interest rate method(cid:30) 
rental income(cid:15) which is recognised on a straight line basis(cid:30)
net gains on disposal of assets(cid:15) which is recognised at the 
date control of the asset passes to the ac(cid:84)uirer(cid:30)
foreign e(cid:91)change gains(cid:30) and
insurance recoveries(cid:15) which is recognised on confirmation 
from the insurer that the claim payment has been approved.

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(d) Foreign currency translation
(i) Functional and presentation currency
(cid:44)tems included in the financial statements are measured using 
the currency of the primary economic environment in which 
the entity operates (cid:11)(cid:179)the functional currency(cid:180)(cid:12). The financial 
statements are presented in Australian dollars(cid:15) which is the 
Company(cid:182)s functional and presentation currency.

(ii) Transactions and balances
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional 

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

currency using the e(cid:91)change rates prevailing at the dates of 
the transactions. (cid:41)oreign e(cid:91)change gains and losses resulting 
from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation 
at year end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the 
statement of comprehensive income(cid:15) e(cid:91)cept when they are 
deferred in e(cid:84)uity as (cid:84)ualifying cash (cid:192)ow hedges and (cid:84)ualifying 
net investment hedges or are attributable to part of the net 
investment in a foreign operation. 

establishing the net present value of provisions is charged to the 
statement of comprehensive income in each accounting period. 
The amortisation of the discount is shown as a financing cost. 
(cid:50)ther movements in the provision for closure and restoration 
costs(cid:15) including those resulting from new disturbance(cid:15) updated 
cost estimates(cid:15) changes to lives of operations and revisions to 
discount rates are capitalised within fi(cid:91)ed assets. These costs are 
then depreciated on a unit of production basis over the life of the 
reserves.

(e) Financing costs
Financing costs (including interest) are included in the statement 
of comprehensive income in the period during which they are 
incurred(cid:15) e(cid:91)cept where they are included in the cost of non(cid:16)
current assets that are currently being developed and will take 
a substantial period of time to complete. The borrowing costs 
included in the cost of such developments are those costs that 
would have been avoided if the e(cid:91)penditure on the development 
had not been made.

(cid:50)nce the asset is ready for use(cid:15) the capitalised borrowing costs 
are depreciated as a part of the carrying amount of the related 
asset.

The capitalisation rate used to determine the amount of 
borrowing costs to be capitalised is the weighted average interest 
rate applicable to the Company(cid:182)s outstanding borrowings during 
the year.

(cid:11)f(cid:12) (cid:51)rovisions
(cid:51)rovisions are recognised when the Company has a present 
legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events(cid:15) it is 
probable that an out(cid:192)ow of resources will be re(cid:84)uired to settle 
the obligation and the amount has been reliably estimated. 
(cid:51)rovisions are not recognised for future operating losses.

(cid:51)rovisions are measured at the present value of management(cid:182)s 
best estimate of the e(cid:91)penditure(cid:15) ad(cid:77)usted for risk(cid:15) re(cid:84)uired 
to settle the present obligation at the balance sheet date. The 
discount rate used to determine the present value re(cid:192)ects current 
market assessments of the time value of money. The increase in 
the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as interest 
e(cid:91)pense.

(i) Rehabilitation
The Company is re(cid:84)uired to rehabilitate the Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area 
upon cessation of mining operations. The costs are estimated 
on the basis of a closure model(cid:15) taking into consideration the 
technical closure options available to meet the Company(cid:182)s 
obligations and applying a probability weighting to each option 
based on the likelihood of e(cid:91)ecuting each option. (cid:58)hen it is 
deemed only one option is available it is assigned a 100 per cent 
probability. The cost estimates are calculated annually during 
the life of the operation to re(cid:192)ect known developments(cid:15) and are 
sub(cid:77)ect to regular reviews.

The amortisation or unwinding of the discount applied in 

(cid:58)here rehabilitation is conducted systematically over the life 
of the operation(cid:15) rather than at the time of closure(cid:15) provision is 
made for the outstanding continuous rehabilitation work at each 
balance date. All costs of continuous rehabilitation work are 
charged to the provision as incurred. 

Separately(cid:15) the Company is re(cid:84)uired to maintain with the 
Commonwealth (cid:42)overnment the Ranger Rehabilitation Trust 
(cid:41)und (cid:11)(cid:179)Trust (cid:41)und(cid:180)(cid:12)(cid:15) to provide security against the estimated 
costs of closing and rehabilitating the mine immediately (rather 
than upon the planned cessation of mining operations(cid:12). (cid:40)ach 
year, the Company is required to prepare and submit to the 
Commonwealth (cid:42)overnment an Annual (cid:51)lan of Rehabilitation. 
(cid:50)nce accepted by the Commonwealth (cid:42)overnment(cid:15) the annual 
plan is then independently assessed and costed and the amount 
to be provided by the Company in the Trust (cid:41)und(cid:15) is then 
determined. The Trust (cid:41)und includes both cash and financial 
guarantees. The cash portion is shown as an investment on the 
balance sheet (cid:11)note 15(cid:12)(cid:15) and interest received by the Trust (cid:41)und 
is shown as interest income. 

The Company is re(cid:84)uired to rehabilitate the Jabiluka mineral 
lease upon cessation of operations to a standard specified by 
the Authorisation to operate issued by the Northern Territory 
(cid:42)overnment. The estimated cost of rehabilitation is currently 
secured by a bank guarantee and fully provided for in the 
financial statements. 

(cid:11)g(cid:12) (cid:44)ncome ta(cid:91)
(cid:44)ncome ta(cid:91) e(cid:91)pense for the period is the ta(cid:91) payable on the 
current period’s taxable income based on the applicable income 
ta(cid:91) rate ad(cid:77)usted by temporary differences between the ta(cid:91) bases 
of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial 
statements(cid:15) and to unused ta(cid:91) losses.

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of 
the ta(cid:91) laws enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the 
reporting period in the country where the Company generates 
ta(cid:91)able income (cid:11)Australia(cid:12).

Deferred income ta(cid:91) is provided in full(cid:15) using the liability method(cid:15) 
on temporary differences arising between the ta(cid:91) bases of 
assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial 
statements. However(cid:15) the deferred income ta(cid:91) is not accounted 
for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a 
transaction other than a business combination that at the time 
of the transaction affects neither accounting nor ta(cid:91)able profit 

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or loss. Deferred income ta(cid:91) is determined using ta(cid:91) rates 
(cid:11)and laws(cid:12) that have been enacted or substantially enacted by 
the reporting date and are e(cid:91)pected to apply when the related 
deferred income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax 
liability is settled.

Deferred tax assets are recognised for deductible temporary 
differences and unused tax losses only if it is probable that future 
ta(cid:91)able amounts will be available to utilise those temporary 
differences and losses.

Deferred tax liabilities and assets are not recognised for 
temporary differences between the carrying amount and ta(cid:91) 
bases of investments in controlled entities where the parent 
entity is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary 
differences and it is probable that the differences will not reverse 
in the foreseeable future.

Deferred ta(cid:91) assets and liabilities are offset when there is a 
legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities 
and when the deferred ta(cid:91) balances relate to the same ta(cid:91)ation 
authority. Current ta(cid:91) assets and ta(cid:91) liabilities are offset where 
the entity has a legally enforceable right to offset and intends 
either to settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle 
the liability simultaneously.

Current and deferred tax balances attributable to amounts 
recognised directly in e(cid:84)uity are also recognised directly in e(cid:84)uity.

(cid:11)h(cid:12) Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and 
subse(cid:84)uently measured at amortised cost using the effective 
interest method less provision for impairment.

Trade receivables are normally settled within (cid:23)5 days and are 
carried at amounts due. The collectability of trade receivables is 
reviewed on an ongoing basis and specific provisions are made 
for any doubtful amounts. Receivables which are known to be 
uncollectible are written off.

(cid:50)ther receivables relate to transactions outside the usual 
operating activities of the Company and are predominately 
concerned with rental receipts from employees and businesses 
located within the Jabiru township. These ongoing activities 
are expected to be settled during the 12 months subsequent 
to balance date but are assessed regularly and impaired 
accordingly.

(cid:11)i(cid:12) (cid:44)nventories
(cid:44)nventories(cid:15) other than stores(cid:15) are carried at the lower of cost and 
net realisable value. Net realisable value is determined based 
on estimated future sales prices, exchange rates and capital and 
production costs(cid:15) including transport. 

(cid:44)nventory is valued using the weighted average cost method and 
includes both fi(cid:91)ed and variable production costs as well as cash 
and non(cid:16)cash charges. 

Stockpiles represent ore that has been e(cid:91)tracted and is available 
for further processing. (cid:44)f there is significant uncertainty as 
to when the stockpiled ore will be processed it is e(cid:91)pensed 
as incurred. (cid:58)here the future processing of this ore can be 
predicted with confidence(cid:15) for e(cid:91)ample because it e(cid:91)ceeds the 
mine(cid:182)s cut off grade(cid:15) it is valued at the lower of cost and net 
realisable value. 

Stockpiled ore(cid:182)s net realisable value is calculated on a discounted 
cash (cid:192)ow basis. (cid:44)f the ore will not be processed within 12 months 
after the balance sheet date it is included within non(cid:16)current 
assets.  

(cid:58)ork in progress inventory includes ore stockpiles and other 
partly processed material. (cid:52)uantities are assessed primarily 
through surveys and assays. 

Stores are valued at cost or net realisable value where applicable 
and are impaired accordingly to take into account obsolescence.

(cid:41)or inventory management purposes the Company may enter 
into uranium loans as a lending or receiving party. These loans 
are entered into for logistical purposes and loans received are 
repaid from the Company(cid:182)s inventory. The uranium loans do not 
meet the definition of a financial liability and are recorded net of 
inventory.

(cid:11)(cid:77)(cid:12) (cid:44)mpairment of assets
Assets that have an indefinite useful life and intangible 
assets that are not yet available for use are tested annually 
for impairment or more fre(cid:84)uently if events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that they might be impaired. (cid:50)ther 
assets are tested 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(cid:182)s carrying amount e(cid:91)ceeds its recoverable 
amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset(cid:182)s 
fair value less cost to sell and value in use. (cid:41)or the purposes of 
assessing impairment(cid:15) assets are grouped at the lowest levels 
for which there are separately identifiable cash (cid:192)ows (cid:11)cash 
generating units(cid:12).

(cid:41)air value is determined as the amount that would be obtained 
from the sale of the asset in an arm(cid:182)s length transaction. 

The value in use is determined using the present value of the 
future cash(cid:192)ow e(cid:91)pected to be derived from an asset or cash 
generating unit. 

(cid:11)k(cid:12) (cid:51)roperty(cid:15) plant and e(cid:84)uipment
(cid:11)i(cid:12) (cid:36)c(cid:84)uisition
(cid:44)tems of property(cid:15) plant and e(cid:84)uipment are recorded at historical 
cost and(cid:15) e(cid:91)cept for land(cid:15) are depreciated as outlined below. 
Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable 
to the ac(cid:84)uisition of the items. Subse(cid:84)uent costs are included in 
the asset’s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, 

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as appropriate(cid:15) only when it is probable that future economic 
benefits associated with the item will (cid:192)ow to the Company and 
the cost of the item can be measured reliably. Repairs and 
maintenance are charged to the statement of comprehensive 
income during the period in which they are incurred.

(ii) Depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation of plant and e(cid:84)uipment is provided for as follows:

(cid:11)a(cid:12) 

(cid:11)b(cid:12) 

individual assets that have a life e(cid:84)ual to or longer  
than the estimated remaining life of the Ranger mine  
are depreciated on a unit of production basis over the  
life of the reserves(cid:30) and
each other asset is depreciated over its estimated  
operating life on a straight line basis.

The following indicates the depreciation method for buildings 
and plant and e(cid:84)uipment on which the depreciation charges are 

based:
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

buildings (cid:177) units of production over the life of reserves(cid:30) 
plant and e(cid:84)uipment(cid:13) (cid:177) units of production over the life of 
reserves.

*Some of these assets are depreciated on a straight line basis 
over their useful operating life which is less than the life of the 
Ranger mine. See below for the estimated useful lives.

(cid:135)  (cid:50)ffice e(cid:84)uipment: computers (cid:16) three years
(cid:135)  (cid:50)ffice e(cid:84)uipment: general (cid:16) five years
(cid:51)lant and e(cid:84)uipment (cid:16) five years
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:41)urniture (cid:9) fittings (cid:16) ten years
(cid:135)  Motor vehicles (cid:16) five years
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

Tailings Storage Facility - three years
(cid:37)rine Concentrator (cid:16) seven years

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

(iii) Leases
(cid:47)eases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards 
of ownership are not transferred to the Company as lessee are 
classified as operating leases (cid:11)Note 22(cid:12). (cid:51)ayments made under 
operating leases (cid:11)net of any incentives received from the lessor(cid:12) 
are charged to the statement of comprehensive income on a 
straight(cid:16)line basis over the period of the lease. 

(iv) Mine properties
Mine properties(cid:15) consisting principally of Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area 
mining rights(cid:15) are amortised on a unit of production basis over the 
life of the economically recoverable reserves of Ranger.

(v) Deferred stripping costs
Stripping costs incurred in the development of a mine before 
production commences are capitalised as part of the cost of 
constructing the mine and subse(cid:84)uently amortised over the life of 

the mine on a units of production basis.

Stripping costs incurred during the production stage of mining 
operations are deferred where they are separately identifiable 
and do not form part of normal mining activities. These costs are 
deferred and amortised over the period in which the associated 
ore is produced.

(cid:11)l(cid:12) (cid:40)(cid:91)ploration and evaluation e(cid:91)penditure
(cid:40)(cid:91)ploration and evaluation e(cid:91)penditure comprises costs which 
are directly attributable to:

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

(cid:135) 

researching and analysing e(cid:91)isting e(cid:91)ploration data(cid:30)
conducting geological studies, exploratory drilling and 
sampling(cid:30)
construction of underground tunnels(cid:15) where necessary for 
e(cid:91)ploration drilling(cid:30)
e(cid:91)amining and testing e(cid:91)traction and treatment methods(cid:30) 
and
compiling prefeasibility and feasibility studies.

(cid:40)(cid:91)ploration and evaluation e(cid:91)penditure also includes the costs 
incurred in acquiring mineral rights, the entry premiums paid to 
gain access to areas of interest and amounts payable to third 
parties to ac(cid:84)uire interests in e(cid:91)isting pro(cid:77)ects.

Capitalisation of e(cid:91)ploration e(cid:91)penditure commences when 
there is a high degree of confidence in the pro(cid:77)ect(cid:182)s viability and 
hence it is probable that future economic benefits will (cid:192)ow to the 
Company. Capitalised e(cid:91)ploration e(cid:91)penditure is reviewed for 
impairment at each balance sheet date. 

Subse(cid:84)uent recovery of the resulting carrying value depends 
on successful development of the area of interest or sale of the 
pro(cid:77)ect. (cid:44)f a pro(cid:77)ect does not prove viable(cid:15) all unrecoverable costs 
associated with the pro(cid:77)ect and the related impairment provisions 
are written off. Any impairment provisions raised in previous 
years are reassessed if there is a change in circumstances which 
indicates that they may no longer be required, for example if it is 
decided to proceed with development. (cid:44)f the pro(cid:77)ect proceeds to 
development(cid:15) the amounts included within intangible assets are 
transferred to property(cid:15) plant and e(cid:84)uipment. 

(i) Undeveloped properties
(cid:56)ndeveloped properties are mineral concessions where the 
intention is to develop and go into production in due course. 
The carrying values of these assets are reviewed annually by 
management and the results of these reviews are reported 
to the (cid:37)oard and Audit and Risk Committee. (cid:44)mpairment is 
assessed based on a status report regarding (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s intentions for 
development of the undeveloped property and is reviewed using 
the fair value less cost to sell method. 

(cid:11)m(cid:12) (cid:42)oods and Services Ta(cid:91) (cid:11)(cid:42)ST(cid:12)
Revenues(cid:15) e(cid:91)penses and assets are recognised net of the 

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

amount of associated GST, unless the GST incurred is not 
recoverable from the ta(cid:91)ation authority. (cid:44)n this case it is 
recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as 
part of the e(cid:91)pense.
Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of the amount of 
(cid:42)ST receivable or payable. The net amount of (cid:42)ST recoverable 
from(cid:15) or payable to(cid:15) the ta(cid:91)ation authority is included with other 
receivables or payables in the balance sheet. 

Cash (cid:192)ows are presented on a gross basis. The (cid:42)ST 
components of cash (cid:192)ows arising from investing or financing 
activities which are recoverable from(cid:15) or payable to the ta(cid:91)ation 
authority(cid:15) are presented as operating cash (cid:192)ows.

comprehensive income.

Amounts accumulated in equity are recycled in the statement 
of comprehensive income in the periods when the hedged item 
will affect profit or loss (cid:11)for instance when the forecast sale 
that is hedged takes place(cid:12). (cid:58)hen a forecast transaction is no 
longer e(cid:91)pected to occur the cumulative gain or loss that was 
reported in equity is immediately transferred to the statement of 
comprehensive income.

Derivative financial instruments are not held for speculative 
purposes.

(n) Trade and other payables
Liabilities are recognised for amounts to be paid in the future for 
goods and services received prior to the end of the financial year(cid:15) 
whether or not billed to the Company. Trade accounts payable 
are normally settled within (cid:25)0 days. These are recognised initially 
at their fair value and subse(cid:84)uently measured at amortised cost 
using the effective interest rate method.

(cid:11)o(cid:12) (cid:37)orrowings
(cid:37)orrowings are initially recognised at fair value(cid:15) net of transaction 
costs incurred. (cid:37)orrowings are subse(cid:84)uently measured at 
amortised cost. Any difference between the proceeds (cid:11)net of 
transaction costs) and the redemption amount is recognised in 
the statement of comprehensive income over the period of the 
borrowings using the effective interest method.

(cid:37)orrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the 
Company has an unconditional right to defer settlement of the 
liability for at least 12 months after the balance sheet date.

(cid:11)p(cid:12) Derivatives
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a 
derivative contract is entered into and are subse(cid:84)uently re(cid:16)
measured to their fair value. The method of recognising the 
resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative is 
designated as a hedging instrument, and if so, the nature of the 
item being hedged. The Company designates derivatives as 
hedges against highly probable forecast transactions (cid:11)cash (cid:192)ow 
hedges(cid:12).

The Company documents at the inception of the transaction 
the relationship between hedging instruments and hedged 
items(cid:15) as well as its risk management ob(cid:77)ective and strategy 
for undertaking various hedge transactions. The Company also 
documents its assessment, both at hedge inception and on 
an ongoing basis(cid:15) of whether the derivatives that are used in 
hedging transactions have been and will continue to be highly 
effective.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value is recognised 
in e(cid:84)uity in the hedging reserve. The gain or loss relating to the 
ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the statement of 

(q) Employee entitlements
(cid:11)i(cid:12) (cid:58)a(cid:74)es and salaries, annual leave and sic(cid:78) leave
The liability for employee entitlements to wages and salaries 
represents the amount which the Company has a present 
obligation to pay resulting from employees(cid:182) services provided 
up to the reporting date. A provision e(cid:91)ists for annual leave and 
accumulating sick leave as it is earned by employees and is 
measured at the amount e(cid:91)pected to be paid when it is settled 
and includes all related on costs. (cid:47)iabilities for non(cid:16)accumulating 
sick leave are recognised when the leave is taken and measured 
at the rates paid or payable.

(ii) Long service leave
The liability for long service leave e(cid:91)pected to be settled within 
12 months of the reporting date is recognised in the provision 
of employee benefits and is measured in accordance with (cid:11)i(cid:12) 
above. The liability for long service leave e(cid:91)pected to be settled 
more than 12 months from the reporting date is measured as 
the present value of e(cid:91)pected future payments to be made in 
respect of services provided by employees up to the reporting 
date. Consideration is given to the e(cid:91)pected future wage and 
salary levels(cid:15) e(cid:91)perience of employee departures and periods 
of service.

Expected future payments are discounted using the rates 
attaching to Commonwealth (cid:42)overnment securities at the 
reporting date(cid:15) which most closely match the terms of maturity of 
the related liabilities.

(iii) Superannuation plan
(cid:40)mployees of the Company are entitled to benefits on retirement(cid:15) 
disability or death from their membership of the Rio Tinto Staff 
Superannuation (cid:41)und (cid:11)(cid:179)The (cid:41)und(cid:180)(cid:12). The (cid:41)und has both a defined 
benefit and a defined contribution section. Contributions to the 
defined contribution superannuation plans are e(cid:91)pensed in the 
income statement when incurred.

The defined benefits section currently has only one member from 
the Company and as such any surplus or deficit of plan assets 
are disclosed in the financial statements of the sponsoring entity(cid:15) 
Rio Tinto Services (cid:47)imited.

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(cid:11)iv(cid:12) (cid:55)ermination benefits
Termination benefits are payable when employment is terminated 
before the normal retirement date(cid:15) or when an employee 
accepts voluntary redundancy in e(cid:91)change for these benefits. 
The Company recognises termination benefits when it is 
demonstrably committed to either terminating the employment 
of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without 
possibility of withdrawal or to providing termination benefits as 
a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary redundancy. 
(cid:37)enefits falling due more than 12 months after the end of the 
reporting period are discounted to present value. 

(r) Segment reporting
Management has determined the operating segments based 
on the reports reviewed by the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:15) used to make 
strategic decisions. The Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive considers the business 
from a product perspective. 

(cid:11)s(cid:12) Cash and cash e(cid:84)uivalents
(cid:41)or the purposes of the statement of cash (cid:192)ows(cid:15) cash includes 
cash on hand and deposits held at call(cid:15) net of any bank 
overdrafts.

(t) Contributed equity
(cid:50)rdinary shares are classified as e(cid:84)uity.

(cid:44)ncremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares 
or options are shown in e(cid:84)uity as a deduction(cid:15) net of ta(cid:91)(cid:15) from the 
proceeds.

(cid:44)ncremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares 
or options for the acquisition of a business are not included in the 
cost of the ac(cid:84)uisition as part of the purchase consideration.

(u) Earnings per share
(i) Basic earnings per share
(cid:37)asic earnings per share is determined by dividing net profit after 
income tax attributable to members of the Company, excluding 
any costs of servicing e(cid:84)uity other than ordinary shares(cid:15) by the 
weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during 
the financial year(cid:15) ad(cid:77)usted for bonus elements in ordinary shares 
issued during the year.

(ii) Diluted earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share ad(cid:77)usts the figures used in the 
determination of basic earnings per share to take into account 
the after income ta(cid:91) effect of interest and other financing costs 
associated with dilutive potential ordinary shares and the 
weighted average number of shares assumed to have been 
issued for no consideration in relation to dilutive potential ordinary 
shares.

(cid:11)v(cid:12) Rounding of amounts
The Company is of a kind referred to in Class (cid:50)rder (cid:28)(cid:27)(cid:18)0100(cid:15) 
issued by the Australian Securities and (cid:44)nvestments Commission(cid:15) 

relating to the (cid:181)rounding off(cid:182) of amounts in the financial report. 
Amounts in the financial report have been (cid:181)rounded off(cid:182) in 
accordance with that Class (cid:50)rder to the nearest thousand 
dollars(cid:15) or in certain cases(cid:15) to the nearest dollar.

(cid:11)w(cid:12) Share based payments
The fair value of cash settled share plans is recognised as a 
liability over the vesting period of the awards. Movements in 
that liability between accounting dates are recognised as an 
e(cid:91)pense. The grant date fair value of the awards is taken to be 
the market value of the shares at the date of award reduced by 
a factor for anticipated relative Total Shareholder Return (cid:11)(cid:181)TSR(cid:182)(cid:12) 
performance. (cid:41)air values are subse(cid:84)uently re(cid:16)measured at each 
accounting date to re(cid:192)ect the number of awards e(cid:91)pected to 
vest based on the current and anticipated TSR performance. 
(cid:44)f any awards are ultimately settled in shares(cid:15) the liability is 
transferred direct to equity as the consideration for the equity 
instruments issued. 

Equity settled share plans are settled either by the issue of 
shares by the relevant parent Company(cid:15) by the purchase of 
shares on market or by the use of shares previously ac(cid:84)uired 
as part of a share buyback. The fair value of the share plans is 
recognised as an e(cid:91)pense over the e(cid:91)pected vesting period with 
a corresponding entry to other reserves. (cid:44)f the cost of shares 
acquired to satisfy the plans exceeds the expense charged, the 
e(cid:91)cess is taken to the appropriate reserve. The fair value of the 
share plans is determined at the date of grant(cid:15) taking into account 
any market based vesting conditions attached to the award 
(cid:11)e.g. Total Shareholder Return(cid:12). The Company uses fair values 
provided by independent actuaries calculated using a lattice 
based option valuation model.

Non(cid:16)market based vesting conditions (cid:11)e.g. earnings per share 
targets(cid:12) are taken into account in estimating the number of 
awards likely to vest. The estimate of the number of awards likely 
to vest is reviewed at each balance sheet date up to the vesting 
date(cid:15) at which point the estimate is ad(cid:77)usted to re(cid:192)ect the actual 
awards issued. No ad(cid:77)ustment is made after the vesting date 
even if the awards are forfeited or not e(cid:91)ercised.

(cid:41)urther information about the treatment of individual share based 
payment plans is provided in Note 30.

(cid:11)(cid:91)(cid:12) Dividends
(cid:51)rovision is made for the amount of any dividend declared(cid:15) 
determined or publicly recommended by the Directors on or 
before the end of the financial year but not distributed at balance 
date.

(cid:11)y(cid:12) New accounting standards and interpretations
Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have 
been published that are not mandatory for 31 December 2014 
reporting periods. The Company(cid:182)s assessment of the impact of 
these new standards and interpretations is set out below.

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99

 
100

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(cid:11)i(cid:12) (cid:36)(cid:36)S(cid:37) (cid:28) (cid:41)inancial (cid:44)nstruments, (cid:36)(cid:36)S(cid:37) 200(cid:28)(cid:16)11 (cid:36)mendments 
to (cid:36)ustralian (cid:36)ccountin(cid:74) Standards arisin(cid:74) from (cid:36)(cid:36)S(cid:37) (cid:28), (cid:36)(cid:36)S(cid:37) 
2010-7 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising 
from (cid:36)(cid:36)S(cid:37) (cid:28) (cid:11)December 2010(cid:12) and (cid:36)(cid:36)S(cid:37) 2012(cid:16)(cid:25) (cid:36)mendments 
to Australian Accounting Standards – Mandatory Effective Date
of (cid:36)(cid:36)S(cid:37) (cid:28) and (cid:55)ransition Disclosures (cid:11)effective from 1 (cid:45)anuary 
2015).

AAS(cid:37) (cid:28) (cid:41)inancial (cid:44)nstruments addresses the classification(cid:15) 
measurement and derecognition of financial assets and financial 
liabilities. The standard is not applicable until 1 January 2015 but 
is available for early adoption. The derecognition rules have been 
transferred from AAS(cid:37) 13(cid:28) (cid:41)inancial (cid:44)nstruments: Recognition 
and Measurement and have not been changed. There will be no 
impact on the Company(cid:182)s accounting for financial liabilities(cid:15) as 
the new re(cid:84)uirements only affect the accounting for financial li-
abilities that are designated at fair value through profit or loss and 
the Company does not have any such liabilities. 

(ii) AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers 

AAS(cid:37) 15 (cid:181)Revenue from contracts with customers(cid:182) establishes 
principles for reporting the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty 
of revenue and cash (cid:192)ows arising from an entity(cid:182)s contracts with 
customers. The standard is not applicable until 1 January 201(cid:26) 
but is available for early adoption. (cid:40)RA has not yet determined 
the e(cid:91)tent of the impact(cid:15) if any.

There are no other standards that are not yet effective and that 
are e(cid:91)pected to have an impact on the entity in the current or 
future reporting periods and in forecast transactions. 

2 

Critical accounting estimates and  
judgements

(cid:40)stimates and (cid:77)udgements are continually evaluated and are 
based on historical experience and other factors, including 
e(cid:91)pectations of future events that may have a financial impact on 
the Company and that are believed to be reasonable under the 
circumstances.

The Company makes estimates and assumptions concerning 
the future. The resulting accounting estimates will(cid:15) by definition(cid:15) 
seldom e(cid:84)ual the related actual results. The estimates and 
assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material 
ad(cid:77)ustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within 
the ne(cid:91)t financial year are discussed below.

(cid:11)a(cid:12) Rehabilitation provision
The calculation of the rehabilitation provision relies on estimates 
of costs and their timing required to rehabilitate and restore 
disturbed land to establish an environment similar to ad(cid:77)acent 
areas of (cid:46)akadu National (cid:51)ark.

The costs are estimated on the basis of a rehabilitation model, 
taking into account consideration to the preferred options 

available to meet the Company(cid:182)s obligations. The provision for 
rehabilitation represents the net present cost at 31 December, 
based on current disturbance(cid:15) of the preferred plan within the 
re(cid:84)uirements of the Ranger Authority.

The cost estimates are reviewed annually during the life of the 
operation to re(cid:192)ect known developments. (cid:44)n 201(cid:23) this review 
resulted in a decrease to the provision of (cid:7)(cid:26)(cid:23) million.  The 
change in estimate considered updated technology and learnings 
from work conducted to date(cid:15) both on the Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area 
and other operations.  The key change related to the use of more 
efficient technology in thickening tailings transferred from the 
e(cid:91)isting Tailings Storage (cid:41)acility to (cid:51)it 3. The overall rehabilitation 
strategy remains unchanged. 

The ultimate cost of rehabilitation is uncertain and can vary in 
response to many factor. (cid:44)t is reasonably possible that outcomes 
within the ne(cid:91)t financial year that are different from the current 
cost estimate could require material adjustment (increase or 
decrease(cid:12) to the rehabilitation provision for the Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect 
Area.

A key sensitivity in estimating the rehabilitation provision is the 
discount rate applied to the underlying cash (cid:192)ows. The Company 
has maintained a real discount rate of 2.5 per cent. 

(b) Taxation
The Company  has recognised certain deferred tax assets for 
deductible temporary differences and recoverable losses carried 
forward. (cid:44)n recognising these deferred ta(cid:91) assets assumptions 
have been made regarding the Company(cid:182)s ability to generate 
future ta(cid:91)able profits. A key assumption is the approval and 
development of Ranger 3 Deeps mine(cid:15) should this not occur it is 
unlikely ta(cid:91) assets would remain recoverable.

Judgement is required in regard to the application of income tax 
legislation. There is an inherent risk and uncertainty in applying 
these (cid:77)udgements and a possibility that changes in legislation will 
impact the carrying amount of deferred tax assets and deferred 
ta(cid:91) liabilities recognised on the balance sheet. (cid:41)urther details on 
deferred ta(cid:91) assets are included in note 1(cid:23).

(cid:11)c(cid:12) Determination of ore reserves and resources
The Company estimates its ore reserves and resources based 
on information compiled by Competent (cid:51)ersons as defined 
in accordance with the Australasian Code for Reporting of 
(cid:40)(cid:91)ploration Results(cid:15) Mineral Resources and (cid:50)re Reserves 
of December 2012 (cid:11)the J(cid:50)RC code(cid:12). There are numerous 
uncertainties inherent in estimating ore reserves and 
assumptions that are valid at the time of estimation may change 
significantly when new information becomes available.

Changes in the forecast prices of commodities, exchange rates, 
production costs or recovery rates may change the economic 
status of reserves and may(cid:15) ultimately(cid:15) result in the reserves 
being restated. Such changes in reserves could impact on 
depreciation and amortisation rates(cid:15) asset carrying values and 

100

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amount.

At 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) a (cid:7)(cid:23)2.(cid:25) million (cid:11)pre(cid:16)ta(cid:91)(cid:12) ad(cid:77)ustment was 
made to finished goods inventory and a (cid:7)5.0 million (cid:11)preta(cid:91)(cid:12) 
ad(cid:77)ustment to work in progress inventory to record it at its net 
realisable value. This was due to high non(cid:16)cash costs and low 
201(cid:23) production(cid:15) which drove the total unit cost of inventory 
above the e(cid:91)pected sales price. The net realisable value 
ad(cid:77)ustment has been included in (cid:181)Changes in inventories(cid:182) in the 
statement of comprehensive income.

101

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

provisions for rehabilitation. The Company(cid:182)s (cid:50)re Reserves and 
Mineral Resources Statement as at 31 December 201(cid:23) is on 
pages 2(cid:23) and 25.

(cid:11)d(cid:12) Asset carrying value
The Company has two cash generating units (cid:11)C(cid:42)(cid:56)(cid:12)(cid:15) the Ranger 
(cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area (cid:11)R(cid:51)A(cid:12) and the Jabiluka mineral lease. The Ranger 
C(cid:42)(cid:56) includes all assets and liabilities related to activities on the 
R(cid:51)A(cid:15) including the rehabilitation provision and the associated 
asset capitalised within property(cid:15) plant and e(cid:84)uipment. The 
Jabiluka C(cid:42)(cid:56) relates to the Jabiluka mineral lease which is 
currently under a long term care and maintenance agreement.

The Company(cid:182)s balance sheet contains items that have been 
sub(cid:77)ect to impairment testing during the year.

(cid:58)hen the Company assesses C(cid:42)(cid:56)s for recoverability(cid:15) the 
Company uses the greater of fair value less costs of disposal or 
value in use. The Company has used the fair value less costs 
of disposal method for the Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area(cid:15) it has been 
determined based on discounted cash (cid:192)ow modelling of a set of 
probability weighted strategic outcomes. 

The Company has concluded through detailed impairment testing 
that Ranger C(cid:42)(cid:56) is not impaired.

(cid:44)t is reasonably possible that outcomes within the ne(cid:91)t financial 
year that are different from the current assumptions around future 
market prices(cid:15) resource and development potential(cid:15) discount 
rate, rehabilitation, capital and production costs could require 
a material adjustment (increase or decrease) to the carrying 
amount of the Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area.

Market consensus uranium price and e(cid:91)change rate are 
determined by surveying a sample of brokers and financial 
institutions to gather their estimation of both the long term 
uranium price and A(cid:56)D(cid:18)(cid:56)SD e(cid:91)change rate. 

The Company(cid:182)s financial modelling also includes the 
development of Ranger 3 Deeps mine within and beyond 
the term of the current Authority(cid:15) which remains sub(cid:77)ect to 
stakeholder(cid:15) regulatory and (cid:40)RA (cid:37)oard approvals(cid:15) and to 
which the Company has assigned a high probability. Should the 
development of Ranger 3 Deeps not occur(cid:15) the Ranger C(cid:42)(cid:56) 
would likely face significant impairment.

(cid:40)stimates and (cid:77)udgements associated with the Jabiluka 
undeveloped property are disclosed in Note 12.

(cid:11)e(cid:12) (cid:44)nventory net realisable value
The calculation of net realisable value is sensitive to key 
assumptions about the future including: uranium price(cid:15) A(cid:56)D(cid:18)(cid:56)SD 
e(cid:91)change rate and where applicable costs to complete. 

The sales price of uranium o(cid:91)ide is denominated in (cid:56)S dollars(cid:15) 
so (cid:192)uctuations in the A(cid:56)D(cid:18)(cid:56)SD e(cid:91)change rate will affect the 
proceeds received from sales and conse(cid:84)uently the recoverable 

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101

102

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

3 

Revenue

REVENUE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Sales revenue

Sale of goods

Rendering of services

Total sales revenue

Other revenue

(cid:44)nterest received(cid:18)receivable(cid:15) other parties

Rent received

Compensation uranium o(cid:91)ide received

Net gain on sale of property, plant and equipment

Total other revenue

Total revenue from continuing operations

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

378,955

355,868

211

271

379,166

356,139

10,662

13,073

862

9,415

1,693

932

-

-

22,632

14,005

401,798

370,144

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103

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

4 

Expenses

LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAX INCLUDES 
T(cid:43)E (cid:41)(cid:50)(cid:47)(cid:47)(cid:50)(cid:58)(cid:44)(cid:49)(cid:42) (cid:54)PEC(cid:44)(cid:41)(cid:44)C E(cid:59)PE(cid:49)(cid:54)E(cid:54):

Cost of sales 

Produced product (uranium oxide)

Purchased product (uranium oxide)

Total cost of sales

Depreciation

Mine land and buildings

Plant and equipment

Total depreciation

Amortisation

Mine properties

Rehabilitation asset

Total amortisation

NOTES

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

247,912

66,933

294,247

5,166

314,845

299,413

2,176

82,165

84,341

4,766

30,870

35,636

4,790

139,029

143,819

14,073

74,277

88,350

Total depreciation and amortisation expenses

119,977

232,169

Government and other royalties 

Royalty payments

(cid:51)ayments to (cid:44)ndigenous interests

Total Government and other royalties

Financing costs

Other parties

(cid:56)nwinding of discount (cid:11)rehabilitation provision(cid:12)

Total Financing Costs

Doubtful debts expense

Net loss on disposal of property(cid:15) plant (cid:9) e(cid:84)uipment

Net foreign exchange loss/(gain)

Rental e(cid:91)pense relating to operating leases

Research and development e(cid:91)penditure

Total e(cid:91)ploration and evaluation e(cid:91)penditure 
(cid:11)including Ranger 3 Deeps e(cid:91)ploration decline(cid:12)

Expenditure related to plant recommissioning

Defined contribution superannuation e(cid:91)pense

22

22

3,505

11,918

15,423

1,219

28,082

29,301

(43)

-

58

7,097

22,790

83,205

14,227

5,795

4,184

14,223

18,407

1,465

30,937

32,402

(91)

783

(146)

7,667

28,013

66,186

-

6,240

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104

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

5 

(cid:44)ncome ta(cid:91) e(cid:91)pense(cid:18)(cid:11)benefit(cid:12)

(cid:44)(cid:49)C(cid:50)(cid:48)E T(cid:36)(cid:59) E(cid:59)PE(cid:49)(cid:54)E/((cid:37)E(cid:49)E(cid:41)(cid:44)T)

Current tax

Deferred tax

(cid:56)nder(cid:18)(cid:11)over(cid:12) provided in prior years

(cid:44)ncome tax expense/(benefit)

Deferred income ta(cid:91) (cid:11)revenue(cid:12)(cid:18)e(cid:91)pense included in income ta(cid:91) e(cid:91)pense comprises:

Decrease/(increase) in deferred tax assets (Note 14B)

(Decrease)/increase in deferred tax liabilities (Note 14A)

Deferred tax

RECONCILIATION OF INCOME TAX EXPENSE TO PRIMA FACIE TAX PAYABLE

Operating loss before income tax

Tax at the Australian tax rate of 30% (2013 – 30%)

Ta(cid:91) effect of amounts which are not deductible(cid:18)(cid:11)ta(cid:91)able(cid:12) in calculating ta(cid:91)able income: 

R(cid:9)D ta(cid:91) concession

Amortisation

Rehabilitation e(cid:91)penditure

Other items

(cid:44)ncome ta(cid:91) under(cid:18)(cid:11)over(cid:12) provided in prior years

(cid:44)ncome tax expense/(benefit)

AMOUNTS RECOGNISED DIRECTLY IN EQUITY

Aggregate current and deferred tax arising in the  
reporting period and not recognised in net profit or loss  
but directly debited or (credited) to equity

Net deferred tax asset (Note 14B)

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

-

-

(85,814)

(50,937)

12

225

(85,802)

(50,712)

(70,641)

(15,173)

(85,814)

(48,197)

(2,740)

(50,937)

(273,602)

(186,541)

(82,081)

(55,962)

(2,278)

9,261

(2,801)

22,283

(10,721)

(14,464) 

5

12

7

225

(85,802)

(50,712)

72

(29)

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(cid:25) 

Dividends

Dividends paid or declared
No dividends have been paid or declared for the year ended 31 December 201(cid:23) (cid:11)2013: nil(cid:12).

Dividends franking account 

(cid:41)ranking credits available for subse(cid:84)uent financial years  
based on a tax rate of 30% (2013 – 30%)

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

234,095

234,095

The above amounts represent the balance of the franking account as at the end of the financial year(cid:15) ad(cid:77)usted for franking credits that 
will arise from the payment of the amount of the provision for income ta(cid:91) as applicable.

The ability to utilise the franking account credits is dependent upon there being sufficient available profits to declare dividends.

(cid:26) 

Cash and cash e(cid:84)uivalents

CURRENT

Cash at bank and in hand

Deposits at call

Cash and cash equivalents

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

6,188

287,130

293,318

3,294

353,914

357,208

Cash at bank(cid:18)Deposits at call
Cash assets and deposits bear (cid:192)oating interest rates between 0.0 per cent and 2.(cid:27) per cent (cid:11)2013 (cid:177) 0.0 per cent and 3.3 per cent(cid:12).

(cid:44)nterest rate risk e(cid:91)posure
The Company(cid:182)s e(cid:91)posure to interest rate risk is discussed in Note 2(cid:27).

(cid:27) 

Trade and other receivables

CURRENT

Trade debtors

Other debtors

(cid:51)rovision for impairment

Net other debtors

Trade and other receivables

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

9,222

12,188

2,016

(6)

2,010

11,232

7,968

(49)

7,919

20,107

(cid:44)mpairment of receivables
No trade receivables are past due. There is no impairment of trade receivables.

(cid:50)ther receivables relate to transactions outside the usual operating activities of the Company and are predominately concerned with 
receipts from employees and businesses operating within the Jabiru township. These ongoing activities are e(cid:91)pected to be settled 
during the 12 months subse(cid:84)uent to balance date.

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106

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(cid:41)oreign e(cid:91)change and interest rate risk
The Company operates internationally but is primarily e(cid:91)posed to foreign e(cid:91)change risk arising from currency e(cid:91)posures with respect 
to the (cid:56)S dollar. 

A summarised analysis of the sensitivity of trade and other receivables to foreign e(cid:91)change and interest rate risk can be found in 
Note 2(cid:27).

(cid:41)air value and credit risk
Due to the short(cid:16)term nature of trade and other receivables(cid:15) their carrying amount appro(cid:91)imates their fair value.

The ma(cid:91)imum e(cid:91)posure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying amount of each class of receivables mentioned above. 
The Company does not hold any collateral as security. Refer to Note 2(cid:27) for more information on the financial risk management policy 
of the Company.

(cid:28) 

(cid:44)nventories (cid:177) current

Stores and spares

(cid:50)re stockpiles at cost

(cid:58)ork in progress at cost

(cid:58)ork in progress at net realisable value

(cid:41)inished product (cid:56)3O8 at net realisable value
Total current Inventory

2014 
$’000

19,787

35,835

-

710

2013 
$’000

23,730

27,721

2,602

-

90,227

146,559

194,469

248,522

(cid:44)nventory e(cid:91)pense
(cid:50)bsolescence of inventory provided for and recognised as an e(cid:91)pense during the year ended 31 December 201(cid:23) amounted to nil 
(cid:11)2013: (cid:7)(cid:23)2(cid:25)(cid:15)(cid:23)2(cid:26)(cid:12). 

(cid:58)rite(cid:16)downs of inventories to net realisable value recognised as an e(cid:91)pense during the year ended 31 December 201(cid:23) amounted to 
(cid:7)(cid:23)(cid:26)(cid:15)(cid:25)05(cid:15)(cid:28)31 (cid:11)2013 (cid:16) (cid:7)21(cid:15)331(cid:15)(cid:25)(cid:26)(cid:28)(cid:12). This resulted from high non(cid:16)cash costs and low 201(cid:23) production. The e(cid:91)pense has been included 
in (cid:181)Changes in inventories(cid:182) in the statement of comprehensive income.

10  Other assets

Prepayments

11 

(cid:44)nventories (cid:177) non(cid:16)current

(cid:50)re stockpiles at cost

2014 
$’000

1,392

2013 
$’000

2,305

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

85,728

112,584

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107

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

12  (cid:56)ndeveloped properties

(cid:45)abilu(cid:78)a: (cid:47)ong(cid:16)term care and maintenance development pro(cid:77)ect

(cid:37)alance brought forward

Amount capitalised during the year

Total undeveloped properties

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

203,632

203,632

-

-

203,632

203,632

(cid:56)ndeveloped properties are considered an asset not yet ready for use. The recoverable amount of the undeveloped properties is 
determined using the fair value less cost to sell method.

(cid:41)air value less cost to sell has been determined using a discounted cash (cid:192)ow model. (cid:46)ey assumptions to which the model is most 
sensitive include:

(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 
(cid:135) 

uranium prices(cid:30)
foreign e(cid:91)change rates(cid:30)
production and capital costs(cid:30)
discount rate(cid:30) and
ore reserves and mineral resources.

(cid:44)n determining the value assigned to each key assumption(cid:15) management has used e(cid:91)ternal sources of information and has utilised the 
e(cid:91)pertise of e(cid:91)ternal consultants to validate entity(cid:16)specific assumptions such as costs(cid:15) production techni(cid:84)ues and mineral reserves.

(cid:41)urther(cid:15) the Company(cid:182)s cash (cid:192)ow forecasts are based on estimates of future uranium prices(cid:15) which assume market prices will revert 
to the Company(cid:182)s assessment of the long term average price(cid:15) generally over a period of three to five years.

The recoverable amount is dependent on the development and life of the ore body together with the term and continuity of the mining 
lease. (cid:44)t re(cid:192)ects e(cid:91)pected future cash(cid:192)ows contained in the long term asset plan with an ad(cid:77)ustment of cash(cid:192)ows e(cid:91)pected to take into 
account pro(cid:77)ect development risk.  The Company has pro(cid:77)ected cash(cid:192)ows for the period of the current mining lease(cid:15) together with a 
ten year renewal period.

The Jabiluka Mineral (cid:47)ease is currently in long(cid:16)term care and maintenance. The Company has agreed that future mining development 
will not occur without the consent of the Mirarr Traditional (cid:50)wners.  There is no guarantee that this consent will be forthcoming and(cid:15) by 
e(cid:91)tension(cid:15) that the Jabiluka deposit will be developed.

The discount rate applied to the future cash (cid:192)ow forecasts represent an estimate of the rate the market would apply having regard to 
the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset for which the future cash (cid:192)ow estimates have not been ad(cid:77)usted.

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107

108

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

13  Property, plant and equipment

MINE LAND AND 
BUILDINGS 
$’000

PLANT AND 
EQUIPMENT 
$’000

MINE 
PROPERTIES 
$’000

REHABILITATION 
$’000

TOTAL 
$’000

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014

(cid:50)pening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Change in estimate

Transfers

Depreciation/amortisation charge

Closing net book amount

Cost

9,994

-

(324)

-

-

(2,176)

7,494

110,845

Accumulated depreciation/amortisation

(103,351)

Net book amount

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2013

(cid:50)pening net book amount

Additions

Disposals

Change in estimate

Transfers

Depreciation/amortisation charge

Closing net book amount

Cost

7,494

14,699

-

-

-

85

(4,790)

9,994

111,169

Accumulated depreciation/amortisation

(101,175)

Net book amount

9,994

367,884

11,590

(635)

-

-

(82,165)

296,674

1,150,001

(853,327)

296,674

416,648

91,133

(783)

-

(85)

(139,029)

367,884

1,139,046

(771,162)

367,884

21,234

131,234

530,346

-

-

-

-

(4,766)

16,468

421,700

(405,232)

16,468

-

-

11,590

(959)

(62,515)

(62,515)

-

-

(30,870)

(119,977)

37,849

358,485

334,396

2,016,942

(296,547)

(1,658,457)

37,849

358,485

35,307

199,513

-

-

-

-

(14,073)

21,234

421,700

(400,466)

21,234

-

-

5,998

-

(74,277)

131,234

396,911

666,167

91,133

(783)

5,998

-

(232,169)

530,346

2,068,826

(265,677)

(1,538,480)

131,234

530,346

Assets under construction
The carrying amounts of the assets disclosed above include the following e(cid:91)penditure recognised in relation to property(cid:15) plant and 
e(cid:84)uipment which is in the course of construction:

Plant and equipment

2014 
$’000

5,969

2013 
$’000

3,130

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109

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

14  Deferred tax assets

(A) DEFERRED TAX LIABILITY

The balance comprises temporary differences attributable to:

(cid:36)mounts recognised in profit and loss

(cid:44)nvestment in trust fund

(cid:56)ndeveloped properties

(cid:44)nventories

Receivables

Other

Total deferred tax liabilities

(cid:50)ff(cid:16)set of deferred ta(cid:91) asset pursuant to set(cid:16)off provisions (cid:11)Note 1(cid:23)(cid:37)(cid:12)

Net deferred tax liabilities

Movements

Opening balance at 1 January

(Credited)/debited to the income statement (Note 5)

(cid:56)nder provided in prior years credited to the income statement

Closing balance at 31 December

(B) DEFERRED TAX ASSETS

The balance comprises temporary differences attributable to:

(cid:36)mounts recognised in profit and loss

Tax losses

Research and development ta(cid:91) offset

Property, plant and equipment

Rehabilitation

(cid:40)mployee provisions

Other

Amount recognised directly in equity

Transaction costs

Share benefits

Total deferred tax assets

Set(cid:16)off of deferred ta(cid:91) liabilities pursuant to set(cid:16)off provisions (cid:11)Note 1(cid:23)A(cid:12)

Net deferred tax assets

Movements

Opening balance at 1 January

Credited to the income statement (Note 5)

(cid:11)(cid:56)nder(cid:12)(cid:18)over provided in prior years credited to the income statement

Credited to equity (Note 5)

Closing balance at 31 December

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

20,025

23,405

22,175

1,014

-

19,188

23,405

39,639

858

122

66,619

83,212

(66,619)

(83,212)

-

-

83,212

(15,173)

(1,420)

66,619

127,222

33,915

4,119

69,736

4,060

1,919

86,175

(2,740)

(223)

83,212

70,944

25,003

914

67,683

4,407

2,092

240,971

171,043

719

(444)

1,438

(372)

241,246

172,109

(66,619)

(83,212)

174,627

88,897

172,109

124,330

70,641

(1,432)

(72)

48,197

(447)

29

241,246

172,109

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110

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

15 

(cid:44)nvestment in Trust (cid:41)und

NON-CURRENT

Trust Fund

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

66,751

63,960

Trust Fund
The Ranger Rehabilitation Trust (cid:41)und holds a restricted fi(cid:91)ed term investment in the form of bank bills which mature and are 
reinvested periodically. The applicable weighted average interest rate for the year ended 31 December 201(cid:23) was 3.33 per cent (cid:11)2013: 
3.(cid:26)0 per cent(cid:12).

16  Payables

CURRENT

Trade payables

Amounts due to related parties

Other payables

Total payables

1(cid:26)  (cid:51)rovisions (cid:177) current

CURRENT

(cid:40)mployee benefits

(cid:47)each tank remediation

Rehabilitation

Total current provisions

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

48,870

5,833

918

55,621

66,271

4,433

1,808

72,512

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

9,345

-

31,207

40,552

11,535

1,300

78,388

91,223

(cid:47)each tank remediation
(cid:41)ollowing the failure of (cid:47)each Tank 1 on (cid:26) December 2013(cid:15) a provision for (cid:7)1(cid:15)300(cid:15)000 was raised to cover the remaining investigation 
and deconstruction costs. These costs were incurred early in 201(cid:23).

Movements in provisions
Movements in the rehabilitation provision during the financial year is set out below:

2014

Carrying amount at the start of the year

Payments

Transfer from non(cid:16)current provision

Carrying amount at the end of the year

REHABILITATION 
$’000

78,388

(56,977)

9,796

31,207

110

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2013

Carrying amount at the start of the year

Payments

Transfer from non(cid:16)current provision

Carrying amount at the end of the year

18  (cid:51)rovisions (cid:177) non(cid:16)current

NON-CURRENT

(cid:40)mployee benefits

Rehabilitation

Carrying amount at the end of the year

Movements in provisions
Movements in the rehabilitation provision during the financial year is set out below:

2014

Carrying amount at the start of the year

Change in estimate

(cid:56)nwinding of discount

Additional provisions recognised

Transfer to current provision

Carrying amount at the end of the year

2013

Carrying amount at the start of the year

Change in estimate

(cid:56)nwinding of discount

Additional provisions recognised

Transfer to current provision

Carrying amount at the end of the year

REHABILITATION 
$’000

66,227

(73,327)

85,488

78,388

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

4,188

480,845

485,033

4,728

525,076

529,804

REHABILITATION 
$’000

525,076

(74,242)

28,082

11,725

(9,796)

480,845

REHABILITATION 
$’000

573,629

127

30,937

5,871

(85,488)

525,076

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112

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

19  Share capital

SHARE CAPITAL

A Class shares fully paid

Total contributed equity

2014 
SHARES

2013 
SHARES

517,725,062

517,725,062

2014 
$’000

706,485

706,485

2013 
$’000

706,485

706,485

(cid:50)rdinary shares entitle the holder to participate in dividends and the proceeds on winding up of the Company in proportion to the 
number of shares held. 

(cid:50)n a show of hands every holder of ordinary shares present at a shareholders(cid:182) meeting in person or by pro(cid:91)y(cid:15) is entitled to one vote(cid:15) 
and upon a poll each share is entitled to one vote.

Capital risk management
Details of the Company(cid:182)s e(cid:91)posure to risks when managing capital are set out in Note 2(cid:27).

20  Reserves and retained profits

RESERVES

Share(cid:16)based payments reserve

Capital reconstruction

Total Reserves

Movements

Share-based payments reserve

Balance 1 January

Option expense

Balance 31 December

Capital reconstruction

Balance 1 January

Movements

Balance 31 December

RETAINED PROFITS

(cid:48)ovements in retained profits (cid:90)ere as follo(cid:90)s:

Opening retained earnings – 1 January

Net loss for the year

Dividends paid

Closing retained earnings/(accumulated losses) (cid:177) (cid:22)(cid:20) (cid:39)ecember

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

418

389,500

389,918

1,033

389,500

390,533

1,033

(615)

418

801

232

1,033

389,500

389,500

-

-

389,500

389,500

(162,996)

(27,167)

(187,800)

(135,829)

-

-

(350,796)

(162,996)

Nature and purpose of reserves
The share based payments reserve is used to recognise the fair value of e(cid:84)uity instruments issued to employees but not e(cid:91)ercised.

112

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Capital reconstruction reserve
(cid:44)n June 1(cid:28)(cid:28)5(cid:15) the Company reduced its share capital by cancelling (cid:7)0.(cid:28)5 of the capital paid up on each issued share and reducing the 
par value of each issued share from (cid:7)1.00 to (cid:7)0.05. The cancelled capital (cid:11)comprising (cid:7)3(cid:27)(cid:28)(cid:15)500(cid:15)000 in total(cid:12) was credited to a Capital 
Reconstruction Reserve. The Company has the ability to distribute capital to shareholders from this reserve.

21  Contingencies

Contingent liabilities
(cid:47)egal actions against the Company.

The remaining argument in the action listed in the (cid:41)ederal Court against the former Commonwealth Minister for Resources and the 
Company claiming that due process was not followed in granting approvals for the Jabiluka Mill Alternative is dormant. Should the 
Company proceed with the Jabiluka Mill Alternative(cid:15) notice will be given to the applicant who may or may not wish to pursue the 
argument further. 

No material losses are anticipated in respect of the contingent liabilities disclosed above.

22  Commitments

Capital commitments
Capital e(cid:91)penditure contracted for at the reporting date is as follows:

(cid:58)ithin one year

Lease commitments 
(cid:41)uture operating lease rentals not provided for in the financial statements and payable: 

Commitments in relation to leases contracted for at the reporting 
date but not recognised as liabilities, payable

(cid:58)ithin one year

(cid:47)ater than one year but not later than five years

Total operating leases

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

50,051

83,242

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

1,753

4,821

6,574

2,882

4,928

7,810

The Company leases property(cid:15) plant and e(cid:84)uipment under operating leases e(cid:91)piring between one and four years. Some leases 
provide the Company with a right of renewal at which time all terms are renegotiated. 

Mineral tenement leases
(cid:41)uture mineral tenement lease payments not provided for in the financial statements and payable:

(cid:58)ithin one year

(cid:47)ater than one year but not later than five years

(cid:47)ater than five years

Total mineral tenement leases

2014 
$’000

152

609

711

2013 
$’000

138

554

784

1,472

1,476      

(cid:44)n order to maintain current rights of tenure to mining tenements(cid:15) the Company will be re(cid:84)uired to outlay an amount of (cid:7)152(cid:15)2(cid:28)2 in the 
year ending 31 December 2015 in respect of tenement lease rentals.

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114

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Company is liable to make payments to the Commonwealth as listed below:

(cid:11)i(cid:12) 

(cid:11)ii(cid:12) 

(cid:11)iii(cid:12) 

An annual amount e(cid:84)ual to the sum payable by the Commonwealth to the Northern (cid:47)and Council pursuant to the Section 
(cid:23)(cid:23) Agreement for rent for the duration of the agreement. This amounts to (cid:7)(cid:28)32(cid:15)(cid:28)00 for 201(cid:23) and is inde(cid:91)ed for future years.
Amounts e(cid:84)ual to the sums payable by the Commonwealth to the Aboriginal (cid:37)enefits Reserve pursuant to a determination  
under Section 63(5) (b) of the (cid:36)bori(cid:74)inal (cid:47)and (cid:53)i(cid:74)hts (cid:11)Northern (cid:55)erritory(cid:12) (cid:36)ct 1(cid:28)(cid:26)(cid:25). The Company is re(cid:84)uired to pay 2.5 per 
cent of Ranger net sales revenue to the Commonwealth and 1.(cid:26)5 per cent of Ranger net sales revenue to the Northern (cid:47)and 
Council or an entity representing the Mirarr Traditional (cid:50)wners as directed by the Northern (cid:47)and Council (cid:11)amounts paid 
during 201(cid:23): (cid:7)11(cid:15)(cid:28)1(cid:27)(cid:15)12(cid:28)(cid:30) 2013: (cid:7)1(cid:23)(cid:15)223(cid:15)3(cid:25)(cid:27)(cid:12).
Amounts e(cid:84)ual to sums payable by the Commonwealth to the Northern Territory pursuant to an understanding in respect of 
financial arrangements between the Commonwealth and the (cid:42)overnment of the Northern Territory. These amounts are also 
calculated as though they were royalties and the relevant rate is 1.25 per cent of Ranger net sales revenue (cid:11)amounts paid 
during 201(cid:23): (cid:7)3(cid:15)505(cid:15)332(cid:30) 2013: (cid:7)(cid:23)(cid:15)1(cid:27)3(cid:15)3(cid:23)(cid:23)(cid:12).

The Company is liable to make payments to the Northern (cid:47)and Council pursuant to the Section (cid:23)3 Agreement between (cid:51)ancontinental 
Mining (cid:47)imited and (cid:42)etty (cid:50)il Development Company (cid:47)imited and the Northern (cid:47)and Council dated 21 July 1(cid:28)(cid:27)2(cid:15) which was assigned 
to the Company with the consent of the Northern (cid:47)and Council(cid:15) as listed below:

(cid:11)i(cid:12) 
(cid:11)ii(cid:12) 

(cid:56)p front payment of (cid:7)3(cid:15)(cid:23)00(cid:15)000 on the commencement of production at Jabiluka.
Annual royalty payments calculated at (cid:23).5 per cent of net sales revenue less (cid:7)500(cid:15)000 less any amounts paid to the 
Aboriginal (cid:37)enefits Reserve by the Commonwealth under the conditions specified in the mineral lease for the first 10 
years and thereafter at 5 per cent of net sales revenue less any amounts paid to the Aboriginal (cid:37)enefits Reserve by the 
Commonwealth under the conditions specified in the mineral lease (cid:11)refer commitment below(cid:12).

The Company is liable to make payments to the Commonwealth in respect of the Jabiluka pro(cid:77)ect pursuant to the conditions attached 
to the mineral lease. The amount payable was(cid:15) until 30 June 1(cid:28)(cid:28)0(cid:15) calculated at the rate of 5.25 per cent of net sales revenue 
from the Jabiluka pro(cid:77)ect. The Jabiluka pro(cid:77)ect is now under long term care and maintenance and will not be developed without the 
approval of the Mirarr Traditional (cid:50)wners. 

23  Auditor’s remuneration

During the year the auditor of the parent entity and its related practices earned the following remuneration:

AUDIT SERVICES

Price(cid:90)aterhouseCoopers (cid:36)ustralian firm

Audit and review of financial reports

Audit and review of financial reports (cid:11)additiional 2013 fees(cid:12)

(cid:50)ther services

Total remuneration of Price(cid:90)aterhouseCoopers (cid:36)ustralia

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

310

40

-

350

230

-

-

230

114

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2(cid:23)  Related parties

Directors
The names of persons who were Directors of the Company at any time during the financial period are as follows:

(cid:51)eter McMahon(cid:15) Helen (cid:42)arnett(cid:15) Andrea Sutton(cid:15)  (cid:51)eter Taylor(cid:15) John (cid:51)egler(cid:15) Helen Newell (cid:11)resigned 11 June 201(cid:23)(cid:12)(cid:15) Joanne (cid:41)arrell 
(cid:11)appointed 11 June 201(cid:23)(cid:12) and (cid:37)ruce Co(cid:91) (cid:11)appointed 2(cid:26) November 201(cid:23)(cid:12).

(cid:44)nformation relating to Directors(cid:182) compensation(cid:15) shareholdings and retirement benefits is set out in the Remuneration Report in the 
Directors(cid:182) Report.

Key management personnel 
Key management personnel compensation  

Short(cid:16)term employee benefits

(cid:51)ost(cid:16)employment benefits

Share-based payments

2014 
$’000

3,151

363

478

2013 
$’000

3,382

363

574

3,992

4,319

(cid:44)n compliance with Corporations Regulations 2001 2M.3.03 the Company has provided detailed remuneration disclosures in the 
Directors report. The relevant information can be found in the Remuneration Report on pages (cid:25)3 to (cid:27)1.

(cid:47)oans with Directors and key management personnel
There were no loans with Directors or key management personnel during 201(cid:23) (cid:11)2013: nil(cid:12).

Transactions with Directors and Director(cid:16)related entities
There were no transactions with Directors or Director(cid:16)related entities other than Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited during 201(cid:23) (cid:11)2013: Nil(cid:12). Details of 
transactions with Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited are outlined below.

(cid:56)ltimate parent entity
The ultimate parent entity is Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited. This interest is held through North (cid:47)imited (cid:11)incorporated in (cid:57)ictoria(cid:15) Australia(cid:12) which 
has beneficial ownership of (cid:25)(cid:27).(cid:23) per cent of the issued ordinary shares of the Company. North (cid:47)td owns 3(cid:23).1 per cent directly and the 
remaining 3(cid:23).3 per cent through its subsidiary(cid:15) (cid:51)eko(cid:16)(cid:58)allsend (cid:51)ty (cid:47)td.

(cid:44)nterest income
(cid:44)nterest income is received from Rio Tinto (cid:41)inance (cid:47)td which holds cash on behalf of the Company.

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116

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Transactions with related parties
The following transactions occurred with related parties:

(cid:48)anagement services fees paid to ultimate parent entity:

Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup Companies

Consulting fees paid to:

Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup Companies

(cid:50)ther reimbursements for commercial services:

Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup Companies

(cid:36)mounts received from related parties:

Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup Companies (cid:177) other

Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup Companies (cid:177) interest

(cid:39)ividends paid to:

Related parties (cid:177) North (cid:47)td

Related parties (cid:177) (cid:51)eko(cid:16)(cid:58)allsend (cid:51)ty (cid:47)td

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

1,600

1,600

9,153

12,787

85,718

14,669

245,118

1,827

49,774

2,925

-

-

-

-

Consulting fees paid to Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup Companies relate to technical services for ma(cid:77)or pro(cid:77)ects.

(cid:50)ther reimbursements for commercial services include the purchase of uranium o(cid:91)ide at market price (cid:11)201(cid:23): (cid:7)(cid:25)(cid:25)(cid:15)(cid:28)33(cid:15)2(cid:26)(cid:25) and 2013: 
Nil(cid:12).

Amounts received from related parties include sales of uranium o(cid:91)ide at market price.  (cid:44)n April 201(cid:23)(cid:15) the Company entered into a 
marketing agreement with Rio Tinto (cid:56)ranium on the basis that it represents superior value to the Company(cid:182)s e(cid:91)isting marketing 
agreements and the alternative marketing agreements considered. (cid:56)nder the new marketing agreement(cid:15) uranium o(cid:91)ide produced by 
the Company is sold to Rio Tinto (cid:56)ranium and pooled with uranium o(cid:91)ide produced from the Namibian operation of R(cid:124)ssing (cid:56)ranium 
(cid:47)imited(cid:15) a related party of Rio Tinto plc.

(cid:50)utstanding balances arising from sales(cid:18)purchases of goods and services
The following balances are outstanding at the reporting date in relation to transactions with related parties:

Aggregate amounts received from and payable to each class of other related parties at balance 
date (cid:90)ere as follo(cid:90)s:

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

Current assets - cash assets

Related parties (cid:16) Rio Tinto (cid:41)inance (cid:47)td

Current assets - receivables

Related parties (cid:16) Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup Companies

Current liabilities - creditors

Related parties (cid:16) Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup Companies

102,531

87,060

6,066

2,992

5,833

4,433

All related party transactions were conducted on arm(cid:182)s length terms and conditions and at market rates.

116

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

25  Segment information

Description of segments
Management has determined the operating segment based on the reports reviewed by the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive that are used to make 
strategic decisions.

The Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive considers the business from a product prospective and has identified only one reportable segment in the year 
ended 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) being the mining(cid:15) processing and selling of uranium. There are no other unallocated operations. 

Primary reporting – business segments
The segment information provided to the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive for the reportable segment is as follows:

Revenue from e(cid:91)ternal customers

(cid:50)ther revenue 

Total segment revenue 

Segment result 

(cid:44)ncome tax benefit

Profit for the year

Segment assets 

Total assets

Segment liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Acquisitions of non-current assets

Depreciation and amortisation expense

Net (gain) loss on sale of property, plant and equipment

URANIUM

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

379,166

356,139

22,632

14,005

401,798

370,144

(273,602)

(186,541)

85,802

50,712

(187,800)

(135,829)

1,341,724

1,627,561

1,341,724

1,627,561

596,117

596,117

11,590

693,539

693,539

91,133

119,977

232,169

(1,693)

783

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118

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Other segment information
Segment revenue
The revenue from e(cid:91)ternal parties reported to the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive is measured in a manner consistent with that in the income 
statement.

Revenues from e(cid:91)ternal customers are derived from the sale of uranium. A breakdown of revenue and results is provided in the tables 
above. Segment revenue reconciles to total revenue from continuing operations as disclosed in Note 3.

The Company is domiciled in Australia. The result of its revenue from e(cid:91)ternal customers in other countries is outlined in the table 
below:

Asia

(cid:56)nited States

Europe

Africa

Total revenue

SEGMENT REVENUES  
FROM SALES TO  
EXTERNAL CUSTOMERS

2014 
$’000

260,549

108,569

8,461

1,376

378,955

2013 
$’000

63,044

227,215

65,609
-
355,868

Segment revenues are allocated based on the country in which the customer is located. During 201(cid:23) the Company entered into a new 
marketing agreement with Rio Tinto (cid:56)ranium based in Asia.  Details are disclosed in Note 2(cid:23).

Segment assets
The amounts provided to the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive with respect to total assets are measured in a manner consistent with that of the 
financial statements. These assets are allocated based on the operations of the segment and the physical location of the asset. 
Segment assets include all assets used by a segment and consist primarily of operating cash(cid:15) receivables(cid:15) inventories(cid:15) property(cid:15) plant 
and e(cid:84)uipment and other assets(cid:15) net of provisions.

All assets of the Company as at 31 December 201(cid:23) are in Australia with the e(cid:91)ception of inventories in transit or at converters of 
(cid:7)(cid:25)0(cid:15)0(cid:27)(cid:23)(cid:15)(cid:26)20 (cid:11)2013: (cid:7)(cid:25)(cid:28)(cid:15)(cid:26)2(cid:26)(cid:15)00(cid:27)(cid:12). All ac(cid:84)uisitions of property(cid:15) plant and e(cid:84)uipment and other non(cid:16)current assets occurred in Australia.

Segment liabilities
The amounts provided to the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive with respect to total liabilities are measured in a manner consistent with that of the 
financial statements. These liabilities are allocated based on the operations of the segment. Segment liabilities consist primarily of 
trade and other creditors(cid:15) employee entitlements and provisions. The Company does not have any borrowings or derivative financial 
instruments as at 31 December 201(cid:23).

118

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119

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2(cid:25)  Reconciliation of loss after income ta(cid:91) to net cash in(cid:192)ow(cid:18)(cid:11)out(cid:192)ow(cid:12) from  

operating activities

Loss for the year

Add(cid:18)(cid:11)less(cid:12) items classified as investing(cid:18)financing activities:

2014 
$’000

2013 
$’000

(187,800)

(135,829)

Net (gain)/loss on sale of non-current assets

(1,693)

783

Add(cid:18)(cid:11)less(cid:12) non(cid:16)cash items:

Depreciation and amortisation

      Non cash impairment charge

Rehabilitation provision: unwinding of discount

(cid:40)mployee benefits: share based payments

Net exchange differences

Change in operating assets and liabilities

(cid:11)(cid:44)ncrease(cid:12)(cid:18)decrease in trade and other receivables

(cid:11)(cid:44)ncrease(cid:12)(cid:18)decrease in inventories

(cid:11)(cid:44)ncrease(cid:12)(cid:18)decrease in other assets

(cid:11)(cid:44)ncrease(cid:12)(cid:18)decrease in investment in trust fund

(Decrease)/increase in payables

(cid:11)(cid:44)ncrease(cid:12)(cid:18)decrease in net provision for deferred ta(cid:91) assets

(cid:11)Decrease(cid:12)(cid:18)increase in provisions

(cid:49)et cash in(cid:192)o(cid:90)/(out(cid:192)o(cid:90)) provided from operating activities

27  Earnings per share 

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

119,977

232,169

-

28,082

346

(1)

-

30,937

1,338

16

8,875

22,047

128,819

(14,848)

913

(2,791)

(1,981)

(85,730)

(61,007)

(53,991)

(1,789)

(1,912)

(27,730)

(50,742)

(72,322)

(17,882)

2014 
CENTS

(cid:11)3(cid:25).3(cid:12)

(cid:11)3(cid:25).3(cid:12)

2013 
CENTS

(cid:11)2(cid:25).2(cid:12)

(cid:11)2(cid:25).2(cid:12)

(cid:40)arnings used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share: 201(cid:23): (cid:7)(cid:11)187,799,509(cid:12) (cid:11)2013: (cid:7)(cid:11)135(cid:15)(cid:27)2(cid:27)(cid:15)(cid:27)5(cid:27)(cid:12)(cid:12).
(cid:58)eighted average number of ordinary shares on issue used in calculation of basic earnings per share: 201(cid:23): 51(cid:26)(cid:15)(cid:26)25(cid:15)0(cid:25)2 shares 
(cid:11)2013: 51(cid:26)(cid:15)(cid:26)25(cid:15)0(cid:25)2(cid:12). 

Options
(cid:50)ptions granted to employees under the share(cid:16)based payment plans are for options in Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited. Therefore(cid:15) 
the options have not been included in the determination of diluted earnings per share. Details relating to the options are set out in 
Note 30.

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119

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
120

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2(cid:27)  (cid:41)inancial risk management

The Company carries out risk management under policies approved by the (cid:37)oard of Directors. The (cid:37)oard provides principles for 
overall risk management(cid:15) as well as written policies covering specific areas(cid:15) such as mitigating interest rate and other risks(cid:15) use of 
derivative and non(cid:16)derivative financial instruments. 

The Company(cid:182)s business is mining and not trading. Accordingly(cid:15) the Company only contracts to sell uranium that it plans to produce(cid:15) 
however purchasing uranium for resale may be re(cid:84)uired in circumstances where actual production falls short of contractual sales 
volumes. The Company operates entirely in Australia and is e(cid:91)posed primarily to Australian dollar denominated costs. Sales are 
denominated in (cid:56)S dollars.

Market risk
Foreign exchange risk
The Company markets its products internationally and is e(cid:91)posed to foreign e(cid:91)change risk arising from various currency e(cid:91)posures(cid:15) 
primarily with respect to the (cid:56)S dollar. (cid:41)oreign e(cid:91)change risk arises from future commercial transactions and recognised assets and 
liabilities that are denominated in a currency that is not the entity(cid:182)s functional currency. The risk is measured using sensitivity analysis 
and cash (cid:192)ow forecasting. (cid:44)t is not Company policy to hedge against foreign e(cid:91)change risk.

The Company(cid:182)s e(cid:91)posure to foreign currency risk at the reporting date was as follows:

Trade receivables

Trade payables

2014
USD 
$’000

5,259

466

2013 
USD 
$’000

10,873

283

(cid:42)roup sensitivity
At 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) had the Australian Dollar weakened(cid:18)strengthened by 10 per cent against the (cid:56)S Dollar with all other variables 
held constant(cid:15) the change in trade receivables would have effected post(cid:16)ta(cid:91) profit for the year by (cid:7)(cid:23)(cid:28)(cid:28)(cid:15)0(cid:28)(cid:27) higher(cid:18)lower (cid:11)2013: 
(cid:7)(cid:27)53(cid:15)1(cid:27)5 higher(cid:18)lower(cid:12).

At 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) had the Australian Dollar weakened(cid:18)strengthened by 10 per cent against the (cid:56)S Dollar with all other variables 
held constant(cid:15) the change in trade payables would have effected post(cid:16)ta(cid:91) profit for the year by (cid:7)3(cid:28)(cid:15)(cid:27)05 higher(cid:18)lower (cid:11)2013: (cid:7)20(cid:15)(cid:25)3(cid:23) 
higher(cid:18)lower(cid:12). 

Commodity price risk
(cid:44)n the absence of uranium being traded on global futures e(cid:91)changes(cid:15) the Company uses a combination of both fi(cid:91)ed and market price 
related contracts for future sales to manage this e(cid:91)posure. No financial instruments are used by the Company to manage commodity 
price risk.

(cid:44)nterest rate risk
The Company(cid:182)s main interest rate risk arises from cash on deposit. (cid:58)hen cash is surplus to operational and investing re(cid:84)uirements it 
is invested in lump sum deposits to ma(cid:91)imise interest received. (cid:44)n addition(cid:15) the Company is e(cid:91)posed to interest rate risk on cash in the 
Ranger Rehabilitation Trust (cid:41)und. 

Credit risk
The Company has no significant concentrations of credit risk. The Company has policies in place to ensure that sales of products 
are made to customers with an appropriate credit history. (cid:58)here customers are rated by an independent credit rating agency(cid:15) 
these ratings are used to set credit limits. (cid:44)f no independent rating e(cid:91)ists(cid:15) the credit (cid:84)uality of the customer is sub(cid:77)ect to e(cid:91)tensive 
assessment. (cid:47)etters of credit and other forms of credit insurance are also used as re(cid:84)uired. Derivative counterparties(cid:15) cash 
transactions and cash invested through the Ranger Rehabilitation Trust (cid:41)und are limited to high credit (cid:84)uality financial institutions. The 
Company has policies that limit the amount of credit e(cid:91)posure to any one financial institution. 

120

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NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TRADE RECEIVABLES

AA

A

BBB

Other

2014 
$’000

-

9,222

-

-

2013 
$’000

-

-

12,188

-

(cid:47)i(cid:84)uidity and capital risk
The Company(cid:182)s ob(cid:77)ectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Company(cid:182)s ability to continue as a going concern in order to 
provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of 
capital.

The Company does not have a target debt to e(cid:84)uity ratio(cid:15) but has a policy of maintaining a (cid:192)e(cid:91)ible financing structure to be able to 
fund capital e(cid:91)penditure programmes(cid:15) pay dividends and fund e(cid:91)pansion opportunities as they arise. This policy is balanced against 
the desire to ensure efficiency in the debt(cid:18)e(cid:84)uity structure of the Company(cid:182)s balance sheet in the longer term through pro(cid:16)active 
capital management programmes. 

The future li(cid:84)uidity and capital re(cid:84)uirements of the Company will depend on many factors. (cid:37)ased on current assumptions(cid:15) 
including foreign e(cid:91)change rate(cid:15) prices(cid:15) costs(cid:15) resource and mining techni(cid:84)ues(cid:15) (cid:40)RA is likely to re(cid:84)uire capital at a future date for 
the development of Ranger 3 Deeps. (cid:47)ikewise(cid:15) if Ranger 3 Deeps mine is not developed(cid:15) in the absence of any other successful 
developments(cid:15) the Company may re(cid:84)uire an additional source of funding to fully fund the rehabilitation of the Ranger (cid:51)ro(cid:77)ect Area.  
Any inability to obtain sufficient capital would have a material impact on the Company(cid:182)s business and financial performance.

(cid:40)ach year(cid:15) the Company is re(cid:84)uired to prepare and submit to the Commonwealth (cid:42)overnment an Annual (cid:51)lan of Rehabilitation.  
(cid:50)nce accepted by the Commonwealth (cid:42)overnment(cid:15) the annual plan is then independently assessed and costed and the amount to 
be provided by the Company into the Ranger Rehabilitation Trust (cid:41)und is then delivered.  The Trust (cid:41)und includes both cash and 
financial guarantees. 

The Company(cid:182)s ability to access financial guarantees can be in(cid:192)uenced by many factors including(cid:15) future cash balance(cid:15) cash (cid:192)ows 
and shareholder support.  (cid:42)uarantees are generally renewed annually. Should renewal not occur(cid:15) additional cash would be re(cid:84)uired to 
be deposited into the Trust (cid:41)und.

The Company has plans in place to address these risks.  

The Company currently has no debt and (cid:7)2(cid:28)3(cid:15)31(cid:26)(cid:15)(cid:26)(cid:26)(cid:25) of cash on hand or at call (cid:11)Note (cid:26)(cid:12). No debt covenants e(cid:91)ist.

(cid:41)air value estimation
The carrying value less impairment provision of trade receivables and payables is a reasonable appro(cid:91)imation of their fair values due 
to the short(cid:16)term nature of these amounts. 

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

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121

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122

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2(cid:28)  (cid:40)vents occurring after the reporting period

No matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the financial year that have significantly affected(cid:15) or may significantly affect 
the operations or state of affairs of the Company in subse(cid:84)uent financial years.

30  Share-based payments

(cid:40)RA participates in a number of share(cid:16)based payment plans administered by Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto (cid:47)imited(cid:15) which are described 
in detail in the Remuneration Report. These plans have been accounted for in accordance with the fair value recognition provisions of 
AAS(cid:37)2(cid:15) (cid:181)Share(cid:16)based (cid:51)ayment(cid:182)(cid:15) which means that AAS(cid:37)2 has been applied to all grants of employee share(cid:16)based payments that had 
not vested as at 1 January 200(cid:23).

Performance Share Plan
The (cid:51)erformance Share (cid:51)lan (cid:11)(cid:51)S(cid:51)(cid:12) was revised in 2013 with details listed in the Remuneration Report.

The fair value awards granted under the (cid:51)S(cid:51) have been calculated at their dates of grant using a Monte Carlo valuation model 
which takes into account the Total Shareholder Returns (cid:11)TSR(cid:12) performance conditions. No forfeitures are assumed. The awards are 
accounted for in accordance with the re(cid:84)uirements applying to e(cid:84)uity(cid:16)settled sharebased payments transactions.

A summary of the status of shares granted under the share plan at 31 December 2014, and changes during the year, is presented 
below:

BALANCE  
AT START  
OF THE 
YEAR

11,843

(cid:7)52.3(cid:25)

979

(cid:133)3(cid:23).25

2014

Rio Tinto Limited

(cid:58)eighted average fair value 
at grant date

Rio Tinto plc

(cid:58)eighted average fair 
value at grant date

2013

GRANTED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

TRANSFERS 
(cid:44)(cid:49)/((cid:50)(cid:56)T)

EXERCISED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

FORFEITED 
DURING 
THE YEAR

BALANCE  
AT END OF  
THE YEAR

VESTED AND 
EXER-
CISABLE AT 
END OF  
THE YEAR

49

(2,473)

(827)

8,592

1,816

-

-

-

-

(cid:7)3(cid:28).13

(405)

(cid:7)(cid:26)5.(cid:27)1

(430)

(cid:7)(cid:26)5.(cid:27)1

(144)

(cid:133)31.2(cid:27)

(cid:133)3(cid:25).35

(cid:133)3(cid:25).35

Rio Tinto Limited

14,536

9,613

(12,306)

(cid:58)eighted average fair value 
at grant date

Rio Tinto plc

(cid:58)eighted average fair value 
at grant date

(cid:7)(cid:25)2.(cid:28)(cid:28)

(cid:7)3(cid:23).52

(cid:7)50.(cid:28)0

979

(cid:133)3(cid:23).25

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(cid:7)(cid:23)3.00

(cid:7)(cid:25)2.2(cid:25)

-

-

-

-

11,843

3,300

(cid:7)52.3(cid:25)

(cid:7)(cid:26)5.(cid:27)1

979

574

(cid:133)3(cid:23).25

(cid:133)3(cid:25).35

The weighted average share price at the date of e(cid:91)ercise of rights to shares e(cid:91)ercised during the year ended 31 December 201(cid:23) was 
(cid:7)(cid:25)5.(cid:28)1 (cid:11)2013: Nil(cid:12).

The weighted average remaining contractual life of rights to shares outstanding at the end of the period was 3 years (cid:11)2013: 3 years(cid:12).

(cid:58)here shares are issued to employees of subsidiaries within the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) the subsidiaries compensate the parent for the 
amount recognised as e(cid:91)pense in relation to these shares.

122

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123

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Share Option Plan
The Share (cid:50)ption (cid:51)lan was discontinued in 2013 and as such no awards were made. (cid:44)t is policy to settle these awards in e(cid:84)uity(cid:15) 
although the participants at their discretion can be offered a cash alternative. The awards are accounted for in accordance with 
the re(cid:84)uirements applying to e(cid:84)uity(cid:16)settled share(cid:16)based payment transactions. The performance conditions in relation to Total 
Shareholder Return (cid:11)TSR(cid:12) have been incorporated in the measurement of fair value for these awards by modelling the correlation 
between Rio Tinto(cid:181)s TSR and that of the inde(cid:91). The relationship between Rio Tinto(cid:181)s TSR and the inde(cid:91) was simulated many 
thousands of times to derive a distribution which(cid:15) in con(cid:77)unction with the lattice(cid:16)based option valuation model(cid:15) was used to determine 
the fair value of the options. (cid:40)(cid:91)pected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of Rio Tinto(cid:182)s share return.

A summary of the status of options granted under the plan at 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) and changes during the year(cid:15) is presented below:

BALANCE  
AT START  
OF THE 
YEAR

GRANTED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

TRANSFERS 
(cid:44)(cid:49)/((cid:50)(cid:56)T)

EXERCISED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

FORFEITED 
DURING 
THE YEAR

BALANCE  
AT END OF 
THE YEAR

VESTED AND 
EXERCIS-
ABLE  
AT END OF  
THE YEAR

7,383

(cid:7)(cid:23)3.(cid:28)0

1,186

(cid:133)1(cid:25).53 

10,789

(cid:7)(cid:23)0.01

1,186

(cid:133)1(cid:25).53

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(2,487)

(cid:7)32.1(cid:26)

(1,186)

(cid:133)1(cid:25).53

-

-

324

(3,730)

(cid:7)(cid:23)0.(cid:27)1

(cid:7)(cid:23)1.(cid:26)0

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,896

4,896

(cid:7)(cid:23)(cid:28).(cid:27)(cid:26)

(cid:7)(cid:23)(cid:28).(cid:27)(cid:26)

-

-

-

-

7,383

7,383

(cid:7)(cid:23)3.(cid:28)0

(cid:7)(cid:23)3.(cid:28)0

1,186

1,186

(cid:133)1(cid:25).53

(cid:133)1(cid:25).53

2014

Rio Tinto Limited

(cid:58)eighted average 
exercise price

Rio Tinto plc

(cid:58)eighted average 
exercise price

2013

Rio Tinto Limited

(cid:58)eighted average 
exercise  price

Rio Tinto plc

(cid:58)eighted average 
exercise price

The weighted average share price at the date of e(cid:91)ercise of options e(cid:91)ercised during the year ended 31 December 201(cid:23) was (cid:7)5(cid:27).(cid:26)(cid:27) 
(cid:11)2013: (cid:7)(cid:25)5.21(cid:12).

The weighted average remaining contractual life of share options outstanding at the end of the period was 0 years (cid:11)2013: 0 years(cid:12).

(cid:58)here options are issued to employees of subsidiaries within the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) the subsidiaries compensate the parent for the 
amount recognised as e(cid:91)pense in relation to these options.

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123

124

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Share Savings (cid:51)lan
The Share Savings (cid:51)lan was replaced with the myShare Savings (cid:51)lan in 2013(cid:15) and as such no awards were made in 201(cid:23). Awards 
under these plans are settled in e(cid:84)uity and accounted for accordingly. The fair value of each award on the day of grant was estimated 
using a lattice(cid:16)based option valuation model(cid:15) including allowance for the e(cid:91)ercise price being at a discount to market price. A summary 
of the status of options granted under the plan at 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) and changes during the year(cid:15) is presented below:

BALANCE  
AT START  
OF THE 
YEAR

20,345

(cid:7)5(cid:23).(cid:25)2

38,446

(cid:7)5(cid:23).55

GRANTED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

TRANSFERS 
(cid:44)(cid:49)/((cid:50)(cid:56)T)

EXERCISED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

FORFEITED 
DURING 
THE YEAR

BALANCE  
AT END OF 
THE YEAR

VESTED 
AND EXER-
CISABLE 
AT END OF  
THE YEAR

-

-

-

-

(2,689)

(2,371)

(1,508)

13,777

4,514

(cid:7)50.1(cid:27)

(cid:7)5(cid:28).2(cid:25)

(cid:7)5(cid:27).0(cid:27)

(cid:7)53.3(cid:25)

(cid:7)(cid:23)(cid:27).(cid:26)3

(1,355)

(9,082)

(7,664)

20,345

3,434

(cid:7)5(cid:23).(cid:23)0

(cid:7)(cid:23)(cid:27).(cid:26)3

(cid:7)(cid:25)1.25

(cid:7)5(cid:23).(cid:25)2

(cid:7)5(cid:28).2(cid:25)

2014

Rio Tinto Limited

(cid:58)eighted average 
exercise price

2013

Rio Tinto Limited

(cid:58)eighted average 
exercise price

The weighted average share price at the date of e(cid:91)ercise of conditional grants of shares e(cid:91)ercised during the year ended 31 
December 201(cid:23) was (cid:7)(cid:25)1.(cid:27)1 (cid:11)2013: (cid:7)(cid:25)0.(cid:27)5(cid:12).

The weighted average remaining contractual life of share options outstanding at the end of the period was 2 years (cid:11)2013: 2 years(cid:12).

(cid:58)here shares are issued to employees of subsidiaries within the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) the subsidiaries compensate the parent for the 
amount recognised as e(cid:91)pense in relation to these shares.

myShare Savings (cid:51)lan
The myShare plan was introduced to all eligible staff members in 2013 and is described in the Remuneration Report. Awards under 
this plan are settled in e(cid:84)uity and accounted for accordingly. The fair value of each award on the day of grant is set e(cid:84)ual to the share 
price on the day of grant.

A summary of the status of options granted under the plan at 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) and changes during the year(cid:15) is presented below:

BALANCE  
AT START  
OF THE 
YEAR

GRANTED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

TRANSFERS 
(cid:44)(cid:49)/((cid:50)(cid:56)T)

EXERCISED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

FORFEITED 
DURING 
THE YEAR

BALANCE  
AT END OF  
THE YEAR

VESTED 
AND EXER-
CISABLE 
AT END OF  
THE YEAR

7,850

8,233

(1,120)

(cid:7)5(cid:25).3(cid:26)

(cid:7)5(cid:28).(cid:25)3

(cid:7)5(cid:25).0(cid:23)

-

-

7,901

(cid:7)5(cid:25)(cid:15)3(cid:28)

-

-

-

-

-

-

(582)

14,381

(cid:7)5(cid:25).3(cid:23)

(cid:7)5(cid:27).25

(51)

7,850

(cid:7)5(cid:28).0(cid:25)

(cid:7)5(cid:25).3(cid:26)

-

-

-

-

2014

Rio Tinto Limited

(cid:58)eighted average 
exercise price

2013

Rio Tinto Limited

(cid:58)eighted average 
exercise price

The weighted average share price at the date of e(cid:91)ercise of conditional grants of shares e(cid:91)ercised regularly during the year ended 31 
December 201(cid:23) was nil (cid:11)2013: Nil(cid:12). 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of share options outstanding at the end of the period was 3 years (cid:11)2013: 3 years(cid:12).

(cid:58)here shares are issued to employees of subsidiaries within the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) the subsidiaries compensate the parent for the 
amount recognised as e(cid:91)pense in relation to these shares.

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125

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Management Share Plan
The Management Share (cid:51)lan was introduced in 200(cid:26) and is described in the Remuneration Report. The awards will be settled in 
e(cid:84)uity including the dividends accumulated from date of award to vesting. The awards are accounted for in accordance with the 
re(cid:84)uirements applying to e(cid:84)uity(cid:16)settled share(cid:16)based payment transactions. The fair value of each award on the day of grant is set 
e(cid:84)ual to share price on the day of grant. No forfeitures were assumed. A summary of the status of shares granted under the share 
plan at 31 December 201(cid:23)(cid:15) and changes during the year(cid:15) is presented below:

BALANCE  
AT START  
OF THE 
YEAR

GRANTED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

TRANSFERS 
(cid:44)(cid:49)/((cid:50)(cid:56)T)

EXERCISED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

FORFEITED 
DURING 
THE YEAR

BALANCE  
AT END OF  
THE YEAR

VESTED 
AND EXER-
CISABLE 
AT END OF  
THE YEAR

2014

Rio Tinto Limited

16,001

7,460

(2,581)

(4,402)

(cid:58)eighted average fair value 
at grant date

Rio Tinto plc

(cid:58)eighted average fair 
value at grant date

2013

(cid:58)eighted average fair value 
at grant date

Rio Tinto plc

(cid:58)eighted average fair value 
at grant date

(cid:7)(cid:25)1.(cid:25)(cid:27)

1,060

(cid:7)(cid:26)1.01

2,544

(cid:7)(cid:25)1.0(cid:23)

(cid:7)5(cid:26).31

(cid:133)(cid:23)0.5(cid:27)

(cid:133)31.1(cid:26)

(cid:7)53.(cid:26)2

(cid:7)(cid:25)3.(cid:23)5

(cid:133)3(cid:27).(cid:25)(cid:26) 

(cid:133)3(cid:26).30 

78

85

(cid:7)(cid:26)(cid:28).(cid:23)1

(1,138)

(cid:133)3(cid:28).(cid:28)(cid:23)

(cid:7)(cid:26)5.03

(1,569)

(cid:133)3(cid:26).30 

-

-

-

-

Rio Tinto Limited

14,939

8,048

(2,069)

(4,917)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

16,478

(cid:7)5(cid:26).35

-

-

16,001

(cid:7)(cid:25)1.(cid:25)(cid:27)

1,060

(cid:133)(cid:23)0.5(cid:27) 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

The weighted average share price at the date of e(cid:91)ercise of conditional grants of shares e(cid:91)ercised regularly during the year ended 31 
December 201(cid:23) was (cid:7)(cid:25)2.53 (cid:11)2013: (cid:7)(cid:25)(cid:27).0(cid:26)(cid:12).

The weighted average remaining contractual life of conditional grants of shares outstanding at the end of the period was 2 years 
(cid:11)2013: 3 years(cid:12).

The model inputs for conditional rights granted during the year ended 31 December 201(cid:23) included:
(cid:11)a(cid:12) 
(cid:11)b(cid:12) 
(cid:11)c(cid:12) 
(cid:11)d(cid:12) 
(cid:11)e(cid:12) 

rights are granted for no consideration and have a three year life(cid:30)
e(cid:91)ercise price: nil (cid:11)2013: nil(cid:12)(cid:30)
grant date: 1(cid:26) March 201(cid:23) (cid:11)2013: 2(cid:26) March 2013(cid:12)(cid:30)
e(cid:91)piry date: 20 (cid:41)ebruary 201(cid:26) (cid:11)2013: 1(cid:23) (cid:41)ebruary 201(cid:25)(cid:12)(cid:30) and
share price at grant date: (cid:7)(cid:25)1.0(cid:23) (cid:11)2013: (cid:7)53.11(cid:12).

(cid:58)here shares are issued to employees of subsidiaries within the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) the subsidiaries compensate the parent for the 
amount recognised as e(cid:91)pense in relation to these shares.

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125

126

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Bonus Deferral Plan
The (cid:37)onus Deferral Award was established for the mandatory deferral of a specific percentage of the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s Short Term 
(cid:44)ncentive (cid:51)lan bonus payment into Rio Tinto shares. The vesting of these awards is dependent only on service conditions being met. 
The awards will be settled in e(cid:84)uity including the dividends accumulated from date of award to vesting. The awards are accounted for 
in accordance with the re(cid:84)uirements applying to e(cid:84)uity(cid:16)settled share based payment transactions. The fair value of each award on the 
day of grant is e(cid:84)ual to share price on the day of grant less a small ad(cid:77)ustment for the timing of dividends vesting. No forfeitures are 
assumed.

BALANCE  
AT START  
OF THE 
YEAR

GRANTED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

TRANSFERS 
(cid:44)(cid:49)/((cid:50)(cid:56)T)

EXERCISED 
DURING  
THE YEAR

FORFEITED 
DURING THE 
YEAR

BALANCE  
AT END of  
THE YEAR

VESTED 
AND  EXER-
CISABLE 
AT END OF  
THE YEAR

2014

Rio Tinto Limited

(cid:58)eighted average fair 
value at grant date

2013

746

943

(cid:7)53.11

(cid:7)(cid:25)0.35

Rio Tinto Limited

1,265

1,149

(1,359)

(309)

(cid:58)eighted average fair 
value at grant date

(cid:7)(cid:25)(cid:28).35

(cid:7)53.11

(cid:7)55.5(cid:26)

(cid:7)(cid:27)1.00

-

-

-

-

1,689

(cid:7)5(cid:26).15

746

(cid:7)53.11

-

-

-

-

The weighted average share price at the date of e(cid:91)ercise of conditional grants of shares e(cid:91)ercised during the year ended 31 
December 201(cid:23) was nil (cid:11)2013: (cid:7)(cid:25)5.1(cid:23)(cid:12). 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of share options outstanding at the end of the period was (cid:23) years (cid:11)2013: (cid:23) years(cid:12).

(cid:58)here shares are issued to employees of subsidiaries within the Rio Tinto (cid:42)roup(cid:15) the subsidiaries compensate the parent for the 
amount recognised as e(cid:91)pense in relation to these shares. 

Expenses arising from share-based payment transactions
Total e(cid:91)penses arising from share(cid:16)based payment transactions recognised during the period as part of employee benefit e(cid:91)pense 
were as follows:

Share based payment expense

2014 
$’000

418

2013 
$’000

1,338

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127

DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION

Directors’ Declaration
Directors’ Declaration

(cid:44)n the Directors(cid:182) opinion:

(cid:11)a(cid:12)  

the financial statements and notes set out on pages (cid:28)0 to 12(cid:25) are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth),  
including:

(cid:11)i(cid:12) 

(cid:11)ii(cid:12)  

complying with Accounting Standards(cid:15) the Corporations Regulations 2001 and other mandatory professional  
reporting re(cid:84)uirements(cid:30) and 
giving a true and fair view of the Company(cid:182)s financial position as at 31 December 201(cid:23) and of its  
performance for the financial year ended on that date(cid:30) and

(cid:11)b(cid:12)  

there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and  
payable. Note 1 (cid:11)a(cid:12) confirms that the financial statements also comply with (cid:44)nternational (cid:41)inancial Reporting Standards as  
issued by the (cid:44)nternational Accounting Standards (cid:37)oard.

The Directors have been given the declarations by the Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive and the Chief (cid:41)inancial (cid:50)fficer re(cid:84)uired by section 2(cid:28)5A of the 
Corporations Act 2001 (cid:11)Cth(cid:12). This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the directors.

P McMahon
Brisbane
12 February 2015

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127

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
128

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Independent Auditor’s Report

Independent auditor’s report to the members of Energy 
Resources of Australia Ltd 

Report on the financial report 
We have audited the accompanying financial report of Energy Resources of Australia Ltd (the 
company), which comprises the balance sheet as at 31 December 2014, the statement of 
comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and cash flow statement for the year 
ended on that date, a summary of significant accounting policies, other explanatory notes and 
the directors’ declaration. 

Directors’ responsibility for the financial report 
The directors of the company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that 
gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the 
Corporations Act 2001 and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to 
enable the preparation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether 
due to fraud or error. In Note 1, the directors also state, in accordance with Accounting Standard 
AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements, that the financial statements comply with 
International Financial Reporting Standards. 

Auditor’s responsibility 
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We 
conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Those standards require 
that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and 
perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from 
material misstatement. 

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, 
including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether 
due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control 
relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to 
design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of 
expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes 
evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting 
estimates made by the directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial 
report.  

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a 
basis for our audit opinion. 

Independence 
In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the 
Corporations Act 2001. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757  
Freshwater Place, 2 Southbank Boulevard, SOUTHBANK  VIC  3006, GPO Box 1331, MELBOURNE  VIC  
3001 
T: 61 3 8603 1000, F: 61 3 8603 1999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

 
 
 
 
129

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Independent Auditor’s Report

Auditor’s opinion 
In our opinion: 

1. 

the financial report of Energy Resources of Australia Ltd is in accordance with the 
Corporations Act 2001, including: 

2. 

3. 

giving a true and fair view of the company's financial position as at 31 December 
2014 and of its performance for the year ended on that date; and 

complying with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian 
Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Regulations 2001. 

4. 

the company's financial report also complies with International Financial Reporting 
Standards as disclosed in Note 1. 

Report on the Remuneration Report 
We have audited the remuneration report included in pages 63 to 81 of the directors’ report for 
the year ended 31 December 2014. The directors of the company are responsible for the 
preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in accordance with section 300A of the 
Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, 
based on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. 

Auditor’s opinion 
In our opinion, the remuneration report of Energy Resources of Australia Ltd for the year ended 
31 December 2014 complies with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers 

John O’Donoghue 
Partner 

Melbourne 
12 February 2015 

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130

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

Shareholder Information
Shareholder Information

(cid:40)nergy Resources of Australia (cid:47)td is a for(cid:16)profit company limited by shares(cid:15) incorporated and domiciled in Australia.

The financial statements were authorised by Directors on 12 (cid:41)ebruary 2015. The Directors have the power to amend and reissue the 
financial statements.

The shareholder information set out below was applicable as at 31 January 201(cid:23).

Distribution of equity securities
Analysis of numbers of registered e(cid:84)uity security holders by si(cid:93)e of holding: 

1 – 1000

1,001 – 5,000

5,001 – 10,000

10,001 – 100,000

100(cid:15)001 and over

ORDINARY SHARES

NUMBER 
OF SHARE- 
HOLDERS

% OF 
SHARE- 
HOLDERS

7,592

4,117

1,411

1,369

80

52.11

2(cid:27).2(cid:25)

(cid:28).(cid:25)(cid:27)

(cid:28).(cid:23)0

0.55

NUMBER 
OF SHARES

2,734,358

10,768,889

10,429,701

35,156,484

458,635,630

14,569
There were (cid:23)(cid:15)(cid:25)13 holders of less than a marketable parcel of ordinary shares. 

100.00

517,725,062

Equity security holders
The names of the twenty largest registered holders of (cid:84)uoted e(cid:84)uity securities are listed below: 

(cid:51)eko (cid:58)allsend (cid:47)td

North Limited

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited

JP Morgan Nominees Australia Limited

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited

(cid:52)(cid:44)C (cid:47)imited

National Nominees Limited

(cid:37)oda (cid:44)nvestments (cid:51)ty (cid:47)td

BNP Paribas Noms Pty Ltd

Ganra Pty Ltd

John E Gill Trading Pty Ltd

Ariki (cid:44)nvestments (cid:51)ty (cid:47)imited

Burleigh Heads Holdings Pty Ltd

Ariki (cid:44)nvestments (cid:51)ty (cid:47)imited 

Pages Super Pty Ltd

(cid:56)(cid:37)S Nominees (cid:51)ty (cid:47)td

ABN Amro Clearing Sydney Nominees Pty Ltd

CS Fourth Nominees Pty Ltd

NUMBER 
OF SHARES

177,535,718

176,543,136

52,414,925

12,986,956

9,358,479

8,853,218

2,632,600

1,597,449

1,092,899

868,572

739,753

651,429

531,000

500,000

475,000

400,000

400,000

393,890

328,073

310,297

% OF 
ISSUED 
SHARES

0.53

2.0(cid:27)

2.01

(cid:25).(cid:26)(cid:28)

(cid:27)(cid:27).5(cid:28)

100.00

% OF 
ISSUED 
SHARES

3(cid:23).2(cid:28)

3(cid:23).10

10.12

2.51

1.(cid:27)1

1.(cid:26)1

0.51

0.31

0.21

0.1(cid:26)

0.1(cid:23)

0.13

0.10

0.10

0.0(cid:28)

0.0(cid:27)

0.0(cid:27)

0.0(cid:27)

0.0(cid:25)

0.0(cid:25)

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SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

(cid:40)ntitlements to vote
Sub(cid:77)ect to any rights or restrictions for the time being attached to any shares on a show of hands(cid:15) every member present in person or 
by pro(cid:91)y or by attorney or by representative and entitled to vote at a shareholders(cid:182) meeting shall have one vote.

(cid:50)n a poll(cid:15) every member present in person or by pro(cid:91)y or by attorney or by representative shall have one vote for each share held by 
him(cid:18)her.

Annual General Meeting
The ne(cid:91)t Annual (cid:42)eneral Meeting will be held at (cid:28):30am on Tuesday 1(cid:23) April 2015 in Darwin(cid:15) Northern Territory(cid:15) Australia.

Ta(cid:91) file numbers
Ta(cid:91) file numbers or e(cid:91)emption details are recorded from shareholders who wish to provide the information. Dividend advice 
statements(cid:15) when issued to shareholders(cid:15) indicate whether or not a shareholder(cid:182)s ta(cid:91) file number has been recorded. (cid:40)RA normally 
pays fully franked dividends. (cid:44)n the event of an unfranked dividend being paid(cid:15) (cid:40)RA will be re(cid:84)uired to deduct ta(cid:91) at the top marginal 
rate from the dividend paid to shareholders resident in Australia who have not supplied a ta(cid:91) file number or e(cid:91)emption form.

(cid:44)nformation on shareholding
Shareholders who re(cid:84)uire information about their shareholding or dividend payment should contact (cid:40)RA(cid:182)s principal registry.

Shareholders who have changed their address should advise the change in writing to:

(cid:40)RA Share Registry
Computershare Investor Services Pty Ltd
11(cid:26) (cid:57)ictoria Street
(cid:58)est (cid:40)nd (cid:52)(cid:47)D (cid:23)101
Telephone: (cid:14)(cid:25)1 (cid:11)0(cid:12) 3 (cid:28)(cid:23)(cid:26)3 2500
(cid:41)acsimile: (cid:14)(cid:25)1 (cid:11)0(cid:12) 3 (cid:28)(cid:23)15 (cid:23)000

Sponsored shareholders should note(cid:15) however(cid:15) that they should contact their sponsored broker to initiate a change of address.

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132

2014 ASX ANNOUNCEMENTS

2014 ASX Announcements
2014 ASX Announcements

2(cid:26) Nov 201(cid:23)

Appointment of Director

31 Jan 2014

(cid:40)RA (cid:41)ull (cid:60)ear Results (cid:51)resentation

30 Jan 2014

Annual Statement of Reserves and Resources

30 Jan 2014

(cid:51)reliminary (cid:41)inal Report (cid:16) Appendi(cid:91) (cid:23)(cid:40)

30 Jan 2014

(cid:40)RA (cid:41)ull (cid:60)ear Results 2013

09 Jan 2014

December 2013 (cid:52)uarter (cid:50)perations Review

1(cid:28) Nov 201(cid:23)

Ranger 3 Deeps (cid:40)ighth (cid:40)(cid:91)ploration Result

22 Oct 2014

(cid:41)inal Report into Ranger (cid:47)each Tank

16 Oct 2014

(cid:41)urther (cid:56)nderground Drilling Results

09 Oct 2014

September 201(cid:23) (cid:52)uarter (cid:50)perations Review

03 Oct 2014

(cid:40)RA (cid:51)rogresses Ranger 3 Deeps Approvals

02 Oct 2014

Ranger 3 Deeps (cid:41)urther (cid:56)nderground Drilling 
Results

17 Sep 2014 Ranger 3 Deeps (cid:56)pdated Resource Model

18 Aug 2014

Carbon Tax Substantiation Statement

13 Aug 2014

Ranger 3 Deeps (cid:40)(cid:91)ploration Drilling Results

01 Aug 2014

(cid:40)RA (cid:41)inancial Community (cid:51)resentation

31 Jul 2014

(cid:44)nterim Report 30 June 201(cid:23)

31 Jul 2014

June 201(cid:23) Half (cid:60)ear Results

31 Jul 2014

Continuous Disclosure Policy

10 Jul 2014

June 201(cid:23) (cid:52)uarter (cid:50)perations Review

20 Jun 2014

Ranger 3 Deeps Resource (cid:56)pdate

11 Jun 2014

Resignation and Appointment of Directors

05 Jun 2014

Ranger (cid:51)rocessing (cid:51)lant Restart Approved

05 Jun 2014

(cid:56)pdate on Restart of (cid:51)rocessing (cid:50)perations

27 May 2014 Change of Company Secretary

25 May 2014 May 201(cid:23) (cid:44)nvestor (cid:51)resentation

16 May 2014 Ranger 3 Deeps (cid:41)ourth (cid:40)(cid:91)ploration Results

10 May 2014 (cid:58)ork on (cid:56)nderground (cid:57)entilation Shaft 

Temporarily Halted

30 Apr 2014

New Marketing Agreement

30 Apr 2014

CFO Announcement

09 Apr 2014

09 Apr 2014

09 Apr 2014

09 Apr 2014

201(cid:23) Annual (cid:42)eneral Meeting Results of 
(cid:57)oting

2014 Annual General Meeting Chief 
(cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s Address

2014 Annual General Meeting Chairman’s 
Address

Ranger (cid:47)each Tank Recovery (cid:56)pdate on 
Restart of (cid:51)rocessing (cid:50)perations

08 Apr 2014

March 201(cid:23) (cid:52)uarterly (cid:50)perations Review

27 Mar 2014

Ranger (cid:47)each Tank Recovery (cid:56)pdate

20 Mar 2014

(cid:44)ndependent Surface (cid:58)ater (cid:58)orking (cid:42)roup 
Review of Surface (cid:58)ater Management

17 Mar 2014

Resignation of C(cid:41)(cid:50) and Company Secretary

04 Mar 2014

Drilling Results Addendum

21 Feb 2014

(cid:40)RA (cid:58)ater Management Schematics

31 Jan 2014

(cid:41)inancial (cid:51)resentation (cid:41)ull (cid:60)ear Results

Details of these announcements are available at www.energyres.com.au.

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TEN YEAR PERFORMANCE

Ten Year Performance
Ten Year Performance

YEAR ENDED 31 
DECEMBER

Sales Revenue (cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
(cid:40)arnings (cid:37)efore (cid:44)nterest 
and Ta(cid:91) (cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
(cid:51)rofit(cid:18)(cid:11)(cid:47)oss(cid:12) (cid:37)efore Ta(cid:91) 
(cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
(cid:44)ncome Ta(cid:91) (cid:40)(cid:91)pense(cid:18)
(cid:11)(cid:37)enefit(cid:12) (cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
(cid:51)rofit(cid:18)(cid:11)(cid:47)oss(cid:12) After Ta(cid:91) 
(cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
Total Assets (cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
Shareholders(cid:182) (cid:40)(cid:84)uity (cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
(cid:47)ong Term Debt (cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
Current Ratio
(cid:47)i(cid:84)uid Ratio
(cid:42)earing Ratio (cid:11)(cid:8)(cid:12)
(cid:44)nterest Cover (cid:11)times(cid:12)
Return on Shareholders(cid:182) 
Equity (%)
Earnings Per Share (cents)
Dividends (cid:51)er Share (cid:11)cents(cid:12)
(cid:51)ayout Ratio (cid:11)(cid:8)(cid:12)

Share (cid:51)rice (cid:11)(cid:7)(cid:12) closing
(cid:51)rice(cid:16)(cid:40)arning Ratio
Dividend (cid:60)ield (cid:11)(cid:8)(cid:12)
Net Tangible Assets per 
Share (cid:11)(cid:7)(cid:12)
No. of (cid:40)mployees
(cid:51)rofit After Ta(cid:91) per  
(cid:40)mployee (cid:11)(cid:7)000(cid:12)
Ore Mined (million tonnes)
Ore Milled (million tonnes)
Mill Head (cid:42)rade (cid:11)(cid:8) (cid:56)3O8)
Mill Recovery (cid:11)(cid:8)(cid:12)
(cid:51)roduction (cid:11)tonnes (cid:56)3O8) – 
Drummed
Sales (cid:177) Ranger Concen-
trates (cid:11)tonnes (cid:56)3O8)
Sales – Other Concentrates 
(cid:11)tonnes (cid:56)3O8)
Sales (cid:177) Total (cid:11)tonnes (cid:56)3O8)

Note 1  

Post rights issue

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

379,166 356,139 396,629 651,381 572,283 768,297 496,359 357,080 312,698 262,036

(284,274) (199,431) (278,266) (220,633)

47,726 374,737  317,957 108,012

68,745

65,452

(273,602) (186,541) (254,785) (206,340)

59,427 382,053 312,569

98,366

62,247

59,620

(85,802)

(50,712)

(36,026)

(52,741)

12,423 109,479

90,784

22,277

18,640

18,554

47,004 272,574 221,785

(187,800) (135,829) (218,759) (153,599)
41,066
1,341,724 1,627,561 1,826,275 1,948,972 1,423,396 1,359,131 1,170,409 985,353 869,350 864,162
745,607 934,022 1,069,619 1,288,536 951,076 966,574 758,926 606,021 552,491 539,764
-
3.(cid:27)
2.3
-
(cid:25).5

-
(cid:26).1
(cid:25).0
-
(cid:11)1(cid:26)(cid:26).(cid:28)(cid:12)

-
(cid:23).0
2.(cid:28)
-
(cid:11)15(cid:25).(cid:26)(cid:12)

-
1.(cid:27)
1.0
-
(cid:26).(cid:26)(cid:28)

-
3.(cid:23)
2.1
-
(cid:23)(cid:26).(cid:27)

-
3.1
2.2
-
33.5

-
(cid:23).1
2.(cid:26)
-
-

-
3.(cid:27)
2.3
-
-

-
1.5
0.(cid:27)
-
5.(cid:25)

-
3.(cid:25)
2.1
-
(cid:25).3

76,089

43,607

(cid:11)25.2(cid:12)
(cid:11)3(cid:25).3(cid:12)
-
-

1.30
(cid:11)3.5(cid:27)(cid:12)
-

(cid:11)1(cid:23).5(cid:12)
(cid:11)2(cid:25).2(cid:12)
-
-

1.2(cid:25)
(cid:11)(cid:23).(cid:27)1(cid:12)
-

1.(cid:23)(cid:23) 
389

1.(cid:27)0
519

(cid:11)20.5(cid:12)
(cid:11)(cid:23)2.3(cid:12)
-
-

1.2(cid:26)
(cid:11)3.00(cid:12)
-

2.0(cid:26)
594

(cid:11)(cid:23)(cid:27)2.(cid:27)(cid:12)
-
1.3
0.11 
(cid:27)1.5

(cid:11)2(cid:25)(cid:23).(cid:27)(cid:12)
-
2.3
0.15
(cid:27)(cid:23).(cid:27)

(cid:11)3(cid:26)(cid:23).5(cid:12)
3.(cid:27)
2.(cid:25)
0.1(cid:26)
(cid:27)(cid:25).2

(cid:11)11.(cid:28)(cid:12)
(cid:11)2(cid:28).(cid:26)(cid:12)1
-
-

1.23
(cid:11)2.5(cid:23)(cid:12)
-

2.(cid:23)(cid:28)
567

(cid:11)2(cid:26)0.(cid:28)(cid:12)
1.2
1.(cid:25)
0.1(cid:27)
(cid:27)(cid:26).(cid:28)

(cid:23).(cid:28)
2(cid:23).(cid:25)
(cid:27).0
32

11.13
(cid:23)5.2(cid:23)
2.(cid:28)(cid:25)

(cid:23).(cid:28)(cid:28)
523

(cid:27)(cid:28).(cid:27)(cid:26)
1.(cid:23)
2.(cid:23)
0.1(cid:28)
(cid:27)(cid:26).2

31.(cid:25)
1(cid:23)2.(cid:28)
3(cid:28).0
27

23.(cid:27)(cid:28)
1(cid:25).(cid:26)2
1.(cid:23)2

5.0(cid:26)
521

2(cid:28).2
11(cid:25).3
2(cid:27).0
24

1(cid:28).00
1(cid:25).3(cid:23)
1.(cid:23)(cid:26)

3.(cid:28)(cid:27)
519

523.1(cid:26)
2.2
2.3
0.2(cid:25)
(cid:27)(cid:27).3

(cid:23)2(cid:26).33
3.5
2.0
0.30
(cid:27)(cid:27).2

13.1
3(cid:28).(cid:28)
20.0
28

1(cid:28).50
(cid:23)(cid:27).(cid:27)(cid:27)
1.03

3.20
419

1(cid:27)1.(cid:25)
2.(cid:28)
1.(cid:28)
0.31
(cid:27)(cid:27).2

(cid:27).0
22.(cid:28)
1(cid:26).0
74

20.(cid:27)0
(cid:28)0.(cid:28)(cid:27)
0.(cid:27)2

2.(cid:28)0
385

113.3
3.3
2.0
0.2(cid:25)
(cid:27)(cid:26).5

(cid:26).(cid:25)
21.5
1(cid:26).0
80

10.02
(cid:23)(cid:26).(cid:26)0
1.(cid:26)0

2.(cid:27)0
354

11(cid:25).0
2.2
2.3
0.2(cid:28)
(cid:27)(cid:27).3

1,165

2,960

3,710

2,641

3,793

5,240

5,339

5,412

4,748

5,910

2,164

2,767

2,665

3,258

4,373

5,497

5,272

5,324

5,760

5,552

984

48

558

3,148

2,815

3,223

1,908

5,167

653

–

–

–

–

136

5,026

5,497

5,272

5,324

5,760

5,688

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

133

Definition of statistical ratios

Current Ratio  
(cid:47)i(cid:84)uid Ratio    
foreign exchange  
(cid:42)earing Ratio   
(cid:44)nterest Cover   
Return on Shareholders(cid:182) (cid:40)(cid:84)uity 

(cid:40)arnings per Share   

(cid:32) 
(cid:32) 

(cid:32) 
(cid:32) 
(cid:32) 

(cid:32) 

current assets(cid:18)current liabilities
(cid:11)current assets(cid:16)inventory(cid:16)prepayments(cid:16)foreign e(cid:91)change hedge asset on borrowings(cid:12)(cid:18)(cid:11)current liabilities(cid:16)bank overdraft (cid:177) 
hedge liability)
(cid:11)long term debt (cid:14) term creditors(cid:12)(cid:18)(cid:11)shareholders(cid:182) e(cid:84)uity (cid:14) long term debt (cid:14) term creditors(cid:12)
earnings before interest and ta(cid:91)(cid:18)interest e(cid:91)pense
profit after ta(cid:91)(cid:18)average shareholders(cid:182) e(cid:84)uity 

profit after ta(cid:91)(cid:18)weighted average number of shares issued

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
134

INDEX

Index
Index

2014 Announcements

2015 (cid:50)b(cid:77)ectives

Auditor(cid:182)s (cid:44)ndependence Declaration

Balance Sheet

Business Strategy

Cash (cid:41)low Statement

Chairman(cid:182)s Report

Chief (cid:40)(cid:91)ecutive(cid:182)s Report

Community

Company (cid:51)rofile

Corporate (cid:42)overnance Statement

Director’s Declaration

Director(cid:182)s Report

Employment

(cid:40)nvironment

Financial Performance

Future Supply

Health and Safety

(cid:44)ndependent Auditor(cid:182)s Report

Land

Market and Customers

Notes to the Financial Statements

(cid:50)perating and (cid:41)inancial Review

Operations

(cid:50)verview

Radiation monitoring

Ranger 3 Dedps Social (cid:44)mpact Assessment

Ranger (cid:50)re Reserves

Regulatory (cid:41)ramework

Shareholder (cid:44)nformation

Statement of Changes in Equity

Statement of Comprehensive (cid:44)ncome

Sustainable Development

Ten Year Performance

132

10

84

91

16

93

6

8

51

5

85

127

66

48

41

12

22

30

128

45

26

94

12

14

40

32

54

23

36

130

92

90

40

133

134

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

135

INDEX

(cid:43)ead Office
(cid:47)evel 3(cid:15) (cid:40)nergy House
1(cid:27)(cid:16)20 Cavenagh Street
GPO Box 2394
Darwin NT 0(cid:27)01
Tel: (cid:14)(cid:25)1 (cid:11)0(cid:12) (cid:27) (cid:27)(cid:28)2(cid:23) 3500
(cid:41)a(cid:91): (cid:14)(cid:25)1 (cid:11)0(cid:12) (cid:27) (cid:27)(cid:28)2(cid:23) 3555
www.energyres.com.au

Ranger Mine
(cid:47)ocked (cid:37)ag 1
Jabiru NT 0886

(cid:53)e(cid:74)istered Office
(cid:40)nergy Resources of Australia (cid:47)td
c/ Mallesons Stephen Jacques
(cid:47)evel 5(cid:15) N(cid:44)CTA (cid:37)uilding (cid:37)
7 London Circuit
Canberra City ACT 2601

Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

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Energy Resources of Australia Ltd Financial Report 2014

135

136

INDEX

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ENERGY RESOURCES OF AUSTRALIA LTD   ANNUAL REPORT 2014

E

N

E

R

G

Y

R

E

S

O

U

R

C

E

S

O

F

A

U

S

T

R

A

L

I

A

L

T

D

A

N

N

U

A

L

R

E

P

O

R

T

2

0

1

4

Surrounding environment remained 

protected, as confirmed by the 

Supervising Scientist

Ranger 3 Deeps Exploration 

Decline completed

Produced 1,165 tonnes  

of uranium oxide

Strong cash position 
maintained

Reduction in 
employee numbers 
with end of Pit 3 
initial backfill

Implemented process 
safety improvement 
action plan