Quarterlytics / Consumer Cyclical / Furnishings, Fixtures & Appliances / Gowest Gold Ltd. / FY2009 Annual Report

Gowest Gold Ltd.
Annual Report 2009

GWA · ASX Consumer Cyclical
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Ticker GWA
Exchange ASX
Sector Consumer Cyclical
Industry Furnishings, Fixtures & Appliances
Employees 1001-5000
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FY2009 Annual Report · Gowest Gold Ltd.
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Level 14 10 Market Street Brisbane Queensland 4000 Australia
Telephone: 61 7 3109 6000  Facsimile: 61 7 3236 0522
Website: www.gwail.com.au

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED

2009 ANNUAL REPORT

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CONTENTS

Performance Summary  

Company Profile and Mission Statement 

Chairman’s Review  

Managing Director’s Review of Operations  

Health and Safety  

In the Community 

Business Divisions  

GWA Sustainability and Innovation Story  

Board of Directors  

 Corporate Governance Statement  

Directors’ Report  

Financial Statements  

Other Statutory Information  

Shareholder Information and Timetable  

1

2

4

6

10

12 

14

19

30

32

39

48

102

104

HEAD OFFICE LOCATIONS

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
Level 14 10 Market Street  
Brisbane  QLD 4000
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 7 3109 6000
Facsimile:  61 7 3236 0522
Website:    www.gwail.com.au 

CAROMA DORF
4 Ray Road   
Epping  NSW 2121
AUSTRALIA
Telephone:  61 2 9202 7000
Facsimile:   61 2 9869 0625
Websites:   www.caroma.com.au

www.fowler.com.au
www.stylus.com.au
www.starion-industries.com
www.dorf.com.au
www.clark.com.au 
www.irwell.com.au
www.radiantstainless.com.au
www.ecologicalsolutions.com 

Dux MANuFACTuRING LIMITED
Lackey Road  
Moss Vale  NSW 2577
AUSTRALIA
Telephone:  61 2 4868 0200
Facsimile:   61 2 4868 2014
Websites:   www.dux.com.au
                  www.ecosmart.com.au

www.hotwaterrebate.com.au 

CORPORATE DIRECTORy 

DIRECTORS
B Thornton, Chairman
J J Kennedy, Deputy Chairman
P C Crowley, Managing Director
D R Barry, Non-Executive Director
R M Anderson, Non-Executive Director
G J McGrath, Non-Executive Director
W J Bartlett, Non-Executive Director
D D McDonough, Non-Executive Director
R J Thornton, Executive Director

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
W R Saxelby, FCPA GAICD

COMPANy SECRETARy
R J Thornton, CA B Com (Acc) LLB (Hons) LLM 

REGISTERED OFFICE
Level 14, 10 Market Street
Brisbane QLD 4000
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 7 3109 6000
Facsimile:  61 7 3236 0522
Website:    www.gwail.com.au
ASX code: GWT

GAINSBOROuGH HARDWARE 
INDuSTRIES LIMITED
31-33 Alfred Street  
Blackburn  VIC 3130
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 3 9877 1555
Facsimile:  61 3 9894 1599
Website:    www.gainsboroughhardware.com.au

www.ausloc.com

ROvER MOWERS LIMITED 
155 Fison Avenue West 
Eagle Farm  QLD 4009
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 7 3213 0222
Facsimile:  61 7 3868 1010
Website:    www.rovermowers.com.au 

SEBEL FuRNITuRE LIMITED 
92 Gow Street  
Padstow  NSW 2211
AUSTRALIA
Telephone  61 2 9780 2222
Facsimile   61 2 9793 3152
Website:    www.sebel.com.au

WISA Bv
Driepoortenweg 5  
6827 BP Arnhem
NETHERLANDS
Telephone +31 (0) 26 362 9020
Facsimile  +31 (0) 26 363 5480
Website:    www.wisa-sanitair.com

AuDITOR
KPMG
10 Shelley Street
Sydney NSW 2000
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 2 9335 7000
Facsimile:  61 2 9335 7001

SHARE REGISTRy
Computershare Investor Services Pty Ltd
Level 19, 307 Queen Street
Brisbane QLD 4000
AUSTRALIA

GPO Box 523
Brisbane  QLD 4001
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 1300 552 270
Facsimile:  61 7 3237 2152
Website:    www.computershare.com.au

GROuP BANkERS
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
HSBC Bank Australia Limited
National Australia Bank
Westpac Banking Corporation

Printed using Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper. All 
paper sourced from responsibly managed plantation forests. ISO14001 
environmental management system in use.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue increased 4% due to new product and market 
development initiatives in a weak market

Net Profit rose 5% after restructuring charges

Trading EBIT down 12% to $87 million due to market decline 
impacting high margin products

Two new banks join banking group with core facilities 
increased to $268 million

 Strong cash flow and capital management initiatives 
reduced net debt to $155 million

Final fully franked dividend of 8.5 cents per share, 

maintaining full year ordinary dividend at 18 cents per share

2008/09 YEAR 
PERFORMANCE 
SUMMARY

Five Year Financial Summary 

2004/05  
$’000  

2005/06  
$’000  

2006/07  
$’000  

2007/08   2008/09 
$’000

$’000  

Revenue 

626,866 

619,989 

636,124 

648,902 

678,344

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation,  
amortisation and restructuring costs   

(%)  

Depreciation and amortisation 

Earnings before interest, tax and restructuring costs 

(%) 

Interest (net) 

Trading profit before tax 

(%) 

Tax expense 

(%) 

Trading profit after tax 

Restructuring costs after tax 

Net profit after tax  

Net cash from operating activities 

Capital expenditure 

Research and development 

Net debt 

Shareholders’ equity 

Other Ratios and Statistics

Return on shareholders’ equity  

(%) 

Interest cover  

(times) 

Net debt / (net debt + equity)  

(%) 

Earnings per share  

Trading earnings per share  

Ordinary dividend per share  

Special dividend per share  

Total dividend per share  

Franking  

Ordinary dividend payout ratio  

Share price (30 June)  

Dividend yield (total dividend) 

Number of employees 

(cents) 

(cents) 

(cents) 

(cents) 

(cents) 

(%) 

(%) 

($) 

(%) 

130,067 

117,617 

118,533 

117,314 

105,060

20.7 

26,714 

103,353 

16.5 

11,137 

92,216 

14.7 

19.0 

22,420 

95,197 

15.4 

11,490 

83,707 

13.5 

18.6 

19,779 

98,754 

15.5 

12,366 

86,388 

13.6 

18.1 

17,920 

99,394 

15.3 

14,623 

84,771 

13.1 

15.5

18,105

86,955

12.8

13,844

73,111

10.8

28,328 

23,628 

24,975 

24,612 

21,919

30.7 

63,888 

– 

63,888  

83,767 

21,331 

6,488 

161,706 

409,546 

28.2 

60,079 

3,227 

56,852 

60,038 

30,966 

5,775 

28.9 

61,413 

5,095 

56,318 

24,841 

21,516 

5,360 

29.0 

60,159 

14,269 

45,890 

102,992 

22,235 

6,056 

30.0

51,192

2,867

48,325

78,628

17,348

8,119

141,000 

225,614 

193,557 

154,985

411,968 

408,802 

389,120 

426,164

15.6 

11.7 

28.3 

23.0 

23.0 

18.0 

4.5 

22.5 

100 

78.3 

2.92 

7.7 

13.8 

10.2 

25.5 

20.4 

21.6 

18.0 

3.5 

21.5 

100 

88.2 

3.11 

6.9 

13.8 

9.6 

35.6 

20.2 

22.0 

18.0 

4.0 

22.0 

100 

89.1 

4.42 

5.0 

11.8 

8.0 

33.2 

16.4 

21.5 

18.0 

1.5 

19.5 

100 

11.3

7.6

26.7

16.9

17.9

18.0

–

18.0

100

109.8 

106.5

2.50 

7.8 

2.30

7.8

2,474 

2,226 

1,957 

1,786 

1,891

1

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

COMPANY PROFILE

MISSION STATEMENT

GWA International Limited’s primary objective is to grow 
shareholder wealth. This objective will be achieved by continuing 
to invest in the development of its people, new products 
and world leading technology, to sustain and build premium 
profitability of its businesses over time.

The Company’s core business segment is building fixtures and 
fittings which will focus on the research and development of 
innovative new products to maximise market opportunities for 
the businesses. The Company will continue to develop products 
which provide sustainable solutions for reducing domestic and 
commercial water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

GWA International Limited will grow the profitability of its 
businesses by investing for sustainable growth and adapting 
its business models for a changing market. The Company will 
continue the pursuit of appropriate acquisitions that add value 
to its existing businesses and that support expansion into 
new markets.

GWA International Limited (GWA) is one of Australia’s leading 
designers, manufacturers, importers and distributors of household 
consumer products.

A key focus is the research and development of innovative 
environmental products which provide sustainable solutions 
for reducing domestic and commercial water consumption and 
greenhouse gas emissions.

We support our customers through five well-established business 
divisions, Caroma Dorf, Dux, Gainsborough, Rover and Sebel.

These business divisions serve as the foundation for our suite 
of well-known brands, including many household names such 
as Caroma, Dorf, Fowler, Stylus, Clark, Radiant, Irwell, Dux, 
Gainsborough, Sebel and Rover. In Australia, we are also the 
exclusive distributor for other brands including Hansa and KWC.

GWA International Limited is a large Australian employer with 
manufacturing operations across the country. 

The Company invests significantly in research and new 
product development which enables GWA to take advantage of 
opportunities in a competitive marketplace.

GWA International Limited has achieved substantial growth since 
its listing on the Australian Securities Exchange in 1993 as 
a result of robust operating performance, successful 
acquisitions and strong management.

The Company remains committed to building 
shareholder value through continuously 
improving business performance and 
pursuing acquisitions which add 
value to existing operations and 
support our entry into new 
markets.

2
2

logical solutions

PMS279

Process Black 75%

CAROMA DORF
Australia’s foremost designer, manufacturer, 
importer and distributor of domestic and 
commercial bathroom and kitchen products, 
including sanitaryware, tapware, showers, 
accessories, bathware, stainless steel sinks and 
laundry tubs. Caroma Dorf is at the forefront of 
product innovation incorporating water saving 
technology, and is the market leader in water 
efficient sanitaryware and tapware.

DUx 
Australian designer, manufacturer, importer and 
distributor of a range of hot water systems. The 
range includes mains pressure gas and electric 
storage, continuous flow gas, electric and gas 
boosted solar and heat pump products. Dux 
has developed an extensive range of innovative 
environmental products to meet the changing 
regulatory requirements and which assist in 
reducing domestic energy consumption.

GAINSBOROUGh
A leading Australian designer, manufacturer, 
importer and distributor of a comprehensive range 
of domestic and commercial door hardware and 
fittings, including security products.

SEBEL 
At the forefront of Australian design, manufacture, 
import and distribution of quality commercial 
furniture and seating.

ROvER 
One of Australia’s leading designers, importers and 
distributors of domestic and commercial lawn and 
garden care equipment.

3
3

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

ChAIRMAN’S REvIEW

Undoubtedly the operational 
highlight of the year has been 
the growth in revenue achieved 
through new product and market 
development activities which 
helped to partially offset the 
negative impact of the lower 
underlying demand.

As we entered into the 2008/09 financial year there was considerable 
uncertainty about the economic conditions ahead but few predicted 
the near collapse of the global financial system and the depth of the 
recession which would engulf the world in the last quarter of 2008. 
For the first time in living memory finance was simply not available for 
many organisations due to a loss of confidence and company collapses 
ensued. GWA was not immune to these conditions but the robustness 
of the business and a long history of prudent financial management 
meant we have been able to refinance the business, maintain 
dividends, and avoid large capital raisings which if not offset by strong 
earnings growth will destroy shareholder value. 

The Group achieved a trading profit after tax of $51.2 million in the 
2008/09 year on sales revenue of $678.3 million. Net profit after tax 
of $48.5 million was after restructuring charges of $2.9 million after 
tax. These charges will results in improved efficiency over the next 12 
months through ongoing rationalisation of operations and by realising 
benefits from the recently implemented Movex ERP system into 
Caroma Dorf.

Trading earnings before interest and tax of $87.0 million represented 
a 12.5% decrease on the prior year’s performance due to the fall in 
underlying demand. Undoubtedly the operational highlight of the 
year has been the growth in revenue achieved through new product 
and market development activities which helped to partially offset 
the negative impact of the lower underlying demand. The Managing 
Director will expand on this in his Review of Operations. 

DIvIDENDS AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
The Group’s impressive operating cash flow enabled the directors to 
declare a final fully franked ordinary dividend of 8.5 cents per share 
to be paid in October 2009. Together with the interim dividend of 9.5 

cents per share paid in April, this maintains the ordinary fully franked 
dividend for the 2008/09 year at 18.0 cents per share, in line with the 
prior year ordinary dividend. This is a commendable achievement in 
an economic environment where many listed companies have been 
reducing and in some instances ceasing dividend payments to improve 
their balance sheet. 

Following the announcement last year, the Board ceased payment of 
the special dividend to better position the Company for growth through 
acquisition. The current dividend policy is that absent an unexpected 
decline in profitability, ordinary dividends will be maintained at 18.0 
cents per share until such time as it equals 70–80% of earnings. At 
such a time, it is proposed that dividends will then increase in line with 
improvements in profitability. 

In August 2008, the Board announced the reintroduction of the 
Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP). The DRP has been well supported 
by shareholders throughout the year with take-up rates of 26% and 
35% for the final 2007/08 and interim 2008/09 dividends respectively. 
The DRP has again been offered to shareholders for the final 2008/09 
dividend at a discount of 3%, with future availability being subject to 
the funding requirements of the business.

Another highlight for the year has been the overall refinancing of the 
group loan facilities. BNP Paribas has exited as a lender to GWA and 
two new banks now provide loan facilities to GWA. The ability to attract 
these new lenders during a global financial crisis reflects the strength 
of the business and confidence in the management of GWA. We 
appreciate the ongoing support of Commonwealth Bank of Australia, 
National Australia Bank Limited and Australia and New Zealand 
Banking Group Limited, and welcome Westpac Banking Corporation 
and HSBC Bank Australia Limited to the GWA banking group.

4

ExECUTIvE REMUNERATION
As part of the overall GWA salary structure, a new equity performance 
plan for the executives was implemented during the year following 
shareholder approval at the 2008 Annual General Meeting (AGM). The 
plan incorporates challenging performance hurdles based on earning 
per share growth and total shareholder return targets with the objective 
of maximising long term performance. The plan was well supported 
by shareholders at the 2008 AGM and will continue as part of the 
remuneration arrangements for the executives.

The Board takes advice from external remuneration consultants in 
setting remuneration levels for the executives. Given the difficult 
economic environment and downturn in dwelling construction 
and renovation activity, incentive payments have been limited 
and a Company wide freeze has been imposed on fixed executive 
remuneration increases for the 2009/10 year. Despite these actions, 
the Board is satisfied that the current remuneration levels are market 
competitive and will enable the retention of its high quality executive 
and management team.

SUSTAINABILITY AND PRODUCT INNOvATION
The Board is committed to reducing energy and water usage across 
the Group’s operations. In 2008/09, the Company has continued to 
build on the progress of the prior year. I congratulate Caroma Dorf on 
the significant water and waste reductions achieved during the year 
at the Wetherill Park factory through recycling initiatives. Significant 
energy savings were also achieved at this site during the year. There 
are many other examples of the Company’s commitment to reducing 
energy, waste and water across its operations, and I refer you to the 
Sustainability and Environment (Operations) section in the Annual 
Report for highlights of the Company’s initiatives during the year. 

The Group invests over 1% of revenue in research and development 
and in excess of 25% of revenue is derived from products which 
were not in the market two years ago. This is a source of competitive 
advantage for the Company with its commitment to develop new 
market opportunities in our building fixtures and fittings businesses. 
The focus of product innovation is in both water saving and energy 
efficient water heating. The Company is a leading manufacturer 
and distributor of products which deliver sustainable environmental 
benefits. These products include Caroma Dorf’s market leading water 
efficient sanitaryware and tapware, and Dux’s environmental water 
heating products. 

During the year, Caroma Dorf won the prestigious 2009 Australian 
Design Award for the Caroma Invisi Series II toilet suite in the Housing 
and Building Category. The product was developed at Caroma Dorf’s 
Research and Development Centre and features the latest water saving 
technology, and demonstrates the Company’s commitment to the 
development of innovative environmentally friendly products.  I refer you 
to the Sustainability and Innovation (Products) section in the Annual 
Report for further information on the Group’s sustainability focus.

CORPORATE GOvERNANCE
The Board of GWA International Limited comprise experienced and 
long serving directors who have overseen the growth of the Company, 
and the significant restructuring activities of recent years. Succession 
plans have been developed for the retirement of individual directors 
and in accordance with these plans, the Deputy Chairman, Mr Jim 
Kennedy will retire as a director at the Annual General Meeting in 
October 2009. 

Mr Kennedy has been Deputy Chairman of GWA and Chairman of the 
Audit Committee since the float in 1993. His experience has been a 
valuable asset to the Board and I wish to thank Mr Kennedy for his 
contributions as a director and wish him well for the future.

Mr Darryl McDonough and Mr Richard Thornton have joined the 
Board during the year and will be subject to election at the Annual 
General Meeting in October 2009. Mr McDonough will become Deputy 
Chairman of the Board and Mr Bill Bartlett will become Chairman of the 
Audit Committee following the retirement of Mr Kennedy.

STRATEGIC DIRECTION
The Group will continue to focus on maximising opportunities for the 
existing businesses through the development and marketing of innovative 
new products, and will continue the search for suitable acquisition 
opportunities. Progress has been made in this regard with the acquisition 
of Austral Lock in January 2009 for $12 million which is a leading 
Australian manufacturer of locks for the residential security door and patio 
door markets. The Group is actively searching for further acquisitions 
that will enable the expansion of our core building fixtures and fittings 
businesses. Our balance sheet is strong and we have capacity to grow with 
support from our banks and shareholders as required.

The financial performance for the 2008/09 year demonstrates the 
strength of the Group’s businesses in challenging market conditions. 
Despite some early increased activity in the first home buyer market 
we do not see a substantial increase in overall building activity during 
the 2009/10 financial year. The cost competitiveness of our operations, 
new product innovation, improved efficiency of our supply chain and 
benefits from implementation of the new Movex ERP system will ensure 
we are well positioned to take advantage of the upturn when it occurs.

In closing, I would like to thank management and staff for their efforts in 
achieving a sound financial result in the 2008/09 year, and look forward 
to a further improvement in the performance in the 2009/10 year. 

Revenue
$million

08/09

07/08

06/07

05/06

04/05

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

Dividend Per Share
cents

08/09

07/08

06/07

05/06

04/05

0

5

10

15

20

25

Ordinary Dividend

Special Dividend

5

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

MANAGING DIRECTOR’S 
REvIEW OF OPERATIONS

A real highlight for the year has 
been the very strong cashflow 
which is a function of improved 
supply chain management 
and stable operations at 
the upgraded Wetherill Park 
vitreous china factory.  

Trading conditions for the 2008/09 year have been the most difficult in 
recent history with dwelling commencements falling to the lowest level 
since 2001. The loss of confidence arising from the global financial 
crisis in late 2008 and subsequent lack of financing available 

for developers, builders and investors, has resulted in a fall in new 
construction which is unlikely to improve until the 2010 calendar year.

The following chart shows the level of dwelling activity since 2003:

New Dwelling Activity

S
R
E
B
M
U
N
L
A
U
N
N
A

G
N
I
V
O
M

190,000

180,000

170,000

160,000

150,000

140,000

130,000

120,000

6

APPROVALS

COMMENCEMENTS

COMPLETIONS

3
0
E
N
U
J

3
0
C
E
D

4
0
E
N
U
J

4
0
C
E
D

5
0
E
N
U
J

5
0
C
E
D

6
0
E
N
U
J

6
0
C
E
D

7
0
E
N
U
J

7
0
C
E
D

8
0
E
N
U
J

8
0
C
E
D

)
f
(

9
0
E
N
U
J

Source: BIS Shrapnel

Trading Earnings Per Share

cents

07/08

06/07

05/06

04/05

03/04

07/08

06/07

05/06

04/05

03/04

0

5

10

15

20

25

Dividend Per Share

cents

0

5

10

15

20

25

Ordinary Dividend

Special Dividend

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Given this context, the results for 2008/09 have been acceptable and 
reflect the success of GWA’s core strategies which require: 

■■

■■

■■

■■

■■

Investment in innovative and sustainable products 

 Leveraging our investment in brands, sales and marketing to ensure 
products are specified and widely available

 Low cost supply chain to ensure a cost competitive supply position 

 Continuing improvement in operational and business efficiency 
improvement with the aid of a modern ERP system

 Optimising our supply chain infrastructure to deliver superior 
customer service levels.

The summary of financial results for 2008/09 outlined in the table 
below highlight the key achievements for the year which saw increased 
revenue from new product and market development and strong 
operating cash flow reflecting improved supply chain management.  

$million 

Sales Revenue

Cash Flow before Financing Activities

Trading EBIT 

Trading Profit after Tax

Restructure Costs after Tax 

Net Profit after Tax 

2008/09

2007/08

678.3

648.9

55.3

87.0

51.2

(2.9)

48.3

95.2

99.4

60.2

(14.3)

45.9

Sales revenue increased by 4.5% despite a decline in underlying 
demand. This is due to the successful development of new product and 
market opportunities, principally in environmental water heating and 
the Do It Yourself (DIY) market. Increased demand in environmental 
water heating is being driven by government rebates aimed at replacing 
less energy efficient water heating. Over the past two years Dux has 
successfully developed new products and marketing strategies to 
take advantage of this market opportunity. For the Group as a whole, 
overall margins have declined due to additional product and market 
development costs and a general decline in higher margin product sales. 

A real highlight for the year has been the very strong cashflow which 
is a function of improved supply chain management and stable 
operations at the upgraded Wetherill Park vitreous china factory. 

The restructure charge for 2008/09 reflects a planned 4% reduction 
in the workforce during 2009 as a result of on-going rationalisation 
of operations and planned improvements in efficiency after the 
full implementation of the Movex ERP system into Caroma Dorf in 
September 2009. We expect this charge to be fully recovered through 
cost savings in the 2009/10 financial year. 

SEGMENT PERFORMANCE 
The Company’s Building Fixtures and Fittings business segment 
comprise the Caroma Dorf, Gainsborough and Dux business units.  

Caroma Dorf sales declined by 7% for the year. While all markets 
experienced declines in building activity, the downturns were most 
pronounced in Queensland (-16%) and New Zealand (-14%). 

The completion of restructuring initiatives during the 2007/08 
financial year and improved supply chain management has driven 
cost reductions during 2008/09, but these could not offset the volume 
decline and adverse Australian dollar exchange rate movements. Price 
rises were successfully implemented but overall margins have declined 
in line with the lower volumes.

Dux sales increased by 50% for the year due to the regulatory- 
driven change to higher-priced environmental products. Improved 
performance of new products and investment in distribution is flowing 
through to higher revenue and profitability. The business is continuing 
to focus on enhancing its range of energy efficient products based 
on technology developed in-house and through key partnerships with 
offshore suppliers. 

Gainsborough sales increased by 8% for the year due to the impact 
of the Austral Lock acquisition in January 2009 and new product 
and market development. Gainsborough is supplementing its strong 
presence in the builder segment with a broader product offering 
targeting the architectural and commercial market segments. Sales 
have also improved in the DIY market and the business has done well 
to offset the weaker underlying demand through these initiatives. 

Sebel has encountered extremely difficult trading conditions with the 
total absence of demand from the hospitality sector and delays in 
Government spending. Sales revenue has been maintained due to 
increased stadium work, but this is much lower margin contract work 
resulting in lower profitability. 

Rover sales have been severely impacted by lower discretionary 
spending and poor weather conditions early in the year. This was 
compounded by the devaluation of the Australian dollar which 
increased product costs prior to the peak selling season. The 
restructured business is far better positioned now to deliver profitable 
sales with a stable low cost supply source in China. 

CASh FLOW 
The strong net cash flow from operating activities of $78.6 million 
resulted from our continued focus on working capital management and 
was a very pleasing result given the overall weak market conditions.

Expenditure on the acquisition of plant and equipment of $10.5 
million was in line with depreciation. Further investment in the Movex 
ERP system implementation totalled $6.8 million during the period. 
Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment of $6.4 million 
includes a change to more flexible lease arrangements for 
motor vehicles.  

Sales Revenue $million

2008/09

2007/08

Trading EBIT $million

2008/09

2007/08

Building Fixtures 
and Fittings

593.6

558.6

Building Fixtures 
and Fittings

98.5

109.5

Sebel

56.1

56.9

Sebel

2.0

3.4

Rover

28.6

33.4

Rover

(0.9)

0.4

Other

–

–

Other

(12.6)

(13.9)

Total

678.3

648.9

Total

87.0

99.4

7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

MANAGING DIRECTOR’S 
REvIEW OF OPERATIONS

Net interest paid during the year reduced to $12.8 million following 
the rapid fall in market interest rates in late 2008 and the repayment 
of lending facilities to the exiting banker, BNP Paribas. The acquisition 
of Austral Lock in January 2009 for $12.4 million was funded through 
operating cash flow.

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND CAPITAL 
MANAGEMENT
As a result of the strong cash flow performance and capital 
management initiatives, the Company’s net debt reduced by $38.6 
million to $155.0 million at June 2009. During the financial year 
the Company paid $49.2 million in dividends and $33.3 million was 
reinvested through the Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP). Of this 
amount, $15.2 million was taken up by shareholders and $18.1 
million was taken up by the underwriters of the DRP for the interim 
dividend in April 2009.

Net debt at June 2009 totalled $155.0 million, representing gearing 
of 26.8% as measured by net debt / net debt plus equity. The 
Company has a strong balance sheet, established lines of funding and 
investment grade financial metrics which will support future growth 
opportunities. This has been achieved without a dilutive equity issue 
so future increases in profits will deliver growth in earnings per share 
and support our capacity to lift ordinary dividend payments 
to shareholders.

The Group’s financial position at 30 June 2009 has been achieved 
with the support of our banks over a difficult period in the credit 
markets. GWA has renegotiated its Master Financing Agreement with 
its banks, established new bank covenants and managed the exit of 
BNP Paribas as a core lender using operating cash flow and existing 
facilities.

GWA has negotiated the addition of two new banks to our banking 
group. Westpac and HSBC will provide new facilities which further 
assist our capacity to grow through acquisitions. Currently, we have total 
core loan facilities of $267.5 million, of which $200 million is drawn. A 
summary of current facilities and maturity dates is provided below. 

Bank  
$million

CBA 

ANZ

NAB

Westpac

HSBC

Total

Available 
Facilities

Drawn 
Facilities

90.0

60.0

50.0

47.5

20.0

90.0

60.0

50.0

-

-

267.5

200.0

Maturity 
Dates 

June 2011

Jan 2011

Jan 2011

June 2011

Jan 2011

GWA is finalising arrangements for a stand alone EUR5 million facility 
with ING for our Wisa operations in the Netherlands, as a replacement 
for the EUR facility previously provided by BNP Paribas.

8
8

 
hEALTh AND SAFETY 
Management is determined to improve the Company’s health and 
safety performance through better safety systems and processes, 
through extensive communication with our workforce and through 
increased diligence in identifying safety risks across our workplace.

PEOPLE
GWA’s long term success has been due to the efforts of a committed 
and talented workforce. We are continuing to look for ways to bring 
new thinking and skills into the business while also developing our 
people to provide succession opportunities.

During the 2008/09 year, the total injury frequency rate (injuries per 
million man hours worked) was reduced by 21% which is a pleasing 
result, however our safety performance remains an area of on-going 
management focus and our objective is to improve this by a further 
30% in the coming year. 

In support of these objectives a significant investment has been made 
through the GWA Leadership Program, with the aim of underpinning a 
high performance culture through the development of personnel with 
superior skills and capabilities supported by rigorous goal setting and 
performance management systems.

OUTLOOk 
There are a number of positive signals in the market with increased 
housing finance and first home buyer activity and a more stable 
Australian dollar, but we do not believe we will see a sustained 
recovery in dwelling and non-dwelling construction until business 
confidence improves and financing is available for developers, builders 
and investors. Given that our products tend to be installed towards 
the end of the construction phase, we do not expect any material 
improvement in underlying sales in the 2009/10 financial year. 

Increased sales of environmental water heating products, continued 
benefits from product innovation and market development activities 
and cost improvements from restructuring are expected to result in 
some improvement in profitability in the 2009/10 financial year. 

Further market guidance for 2009/10 will be provided at the 
Company’s Annual General Meeting in October following first 
quarter trading. 

SUSTAINABILITY AND CARBON REDUCTION 
GWA is committed to improving the environment both through 
the products we make and sell and the manufacturing processes 
we utilise. The Company is at the forefront of technology with the 
development of water efficient toilets and tapware, and energy efficient 
water heaters. Our environmentally-sustainable products are a major 
source of competitive advantage for the Company.

The achievement of the 2009 Australian Design Award for the Caroma 
Invisi Series II toilet suite further highlights the Company’s commitment 
to sustainable design and innovation. During the year, the Company 
spent $8.1 million on research and development and new products 
sold during the year accounted for 17% of total sales revenue. This 
demonstrates the importance of new product development to support 
future growth in revenue and profitability. 

GWA manufacturing operations are continually seeking ways in which 
to reduce the levels of energy and water usage at our sites as well as 
the waste produced through our processes and packaging. During 
the year, recycling initiatives were implemented at the Wetherill Park 
factory which has resulted in significant reductions in water usage and 
waste. Similar sustainability initiatives are being implemented at the 
other factory locations. 

The current focus on carbon reduction and the new requirements for 
carbon reporting and trading are being properly addressed. For GWA 
this is not just a matter of compliance, but an opportunity to ensure a 
profitable and sustainable future for the business.

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 
GWA is well placed to pursue future growth opportunities. Our strong 
cashflow, together with supportive shareholders and banks ensures 
the Company will be able to continue pursuing internal and external 
investment opportunities which will grow shareholder value.

Management will continue to focus on growing our Building Fixtures 
and Fittings segment by expanding on our core strategies of low cost 
supply, product innovation and high-quality products and service 
levels. The Company is also well positioned to capitalise on acquisition 
opportunities which complement our Building Fixtures and Fittings 
businesses. The small Austral Lock acquisition during the year has 
improved our capabilities to evaluate, execute and integrate an 
acquisition and provides the model for larger acquisitions in the future.

We will continue to look at options to divest non-core businesses 
but we have not been successful in identifying a way to achieve this 
in the current market. Indicative offers were received for Wisa and 
Rover which did not reflect fair value and we will continue to work on 
improving these businesses so they are better positioned for sale when 
the opportunity arises. 

9
9

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

hEALTh AND SAFETY

GWA continues to ensure it 
provides a safe workplace for 
its employees, contractors, 
visitors and customers, in an 
efficient and compliant manner.  

GWA continues to ensure it provides a safe workplace for its employees, 
contractors, visitors and customers, in an efficient and compliant manner.

Through divisionally or site-based health and safety advisors, GWA 
promotes health and safety awareness in an environment which 
encourages continuous improvement.

GWA’s health and safety advisors meet with the Group Risk Manager 
approximately three times each year with the objectives of:

■   Discussing safety performance, goals and improvement strategies; 

■   Exchanging ideas and detailing successful improvement programs; 

■   Promoting training through guest speakers and external experts;

■   Arranging visits to view best practice sites;

■    Planning for cross-site auditing (with health and safety advisors 

visiting different GWA sites); and

■   Planning and implementing new systems and procedures.

The Group Risk Manager reports two times each year to the GWA 
Audit Committee. The reporting includes current health and safety 
performance, current improvement plans and compliance with 
regulations (e.g. asbestos and air monitoring). An audit plan, consistent 
with GWA’s health and safety objectives, is also presented for approval 
for the new financial year. 

In January 2009, “eLearning” was successfully introduced into GWA. 
eLearning is a computer-based online learning tool provided by 

Learning Seat (a division of News Limited). eLearning allows GWA to 
deliver its own tailored online learning courses and access an extensive 
library of more than 400 available courses. Each course meets Federal 
and State Government compliance obligations and is independently 
audited by an Australian legal firm. Courses can be delivered as a 
package and can also be mandated to designate certain pass marks 
and completion dates. For example, the GWA induction package for 
all new employees, integrates various training and education elements 
and can be tailored to meet each individual’s role and needs. Learning 
elements include:

■■

GWA company history, vision and values; and

■   Key policies

  u   Health and Safety;

 u    Equal Opportunity;

 u    Trade Practices;

 u    Emergency management;

 u    Harassment and bullying prevention; and

 u    Local site specific inductions.

eLearning provides GWA and its people with records of training which 
are easily accessible online at all times. Training completion certificates 
are also sent electronically to employees when training has been 
successfully completed.  eLearning is cost and time effective and 
delivers top-up training to existing employees.

10

hEALTh AND SAFETY PERFORMANCE
GWA measures a range of balanced safety performance indicators.  
Proactive indicators such as number of hazards identified, risk 
assessments undertaken and actions issued and completed on time 
are recorded for each GWA site.

Three key measures of safety outcomes are:

■■

■■

■■

 Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR), which measures lost time 
injury resulting in an inability to work for at least one full shift;

 Medical Treatment Injury Frequency Rate (MTIFR), which 
measures the number of doctor-treated injuries per million hours 
worked; and

 Injury Severity Rate (ISR), which measures the number of hours for 
a lost time injury per million hours worked.

In 2008-09, GWA posted a creditable improvement in two of the key 
performance measures (LTIFR and MTIFR) by reporting 3% and 26% 
respective reductions, compared with last financial year. ISR was 1% 
above the previous financial year.

In 2009-10, GWA will target a 30% year-on-year improvement on the 
2008-09 results for total injury frequency. Improvement objectives are 
planned to be met through continuation of the 2008-09 initiatives and 
new initiatives. These new initiatives include improved investigations 
following medical and lost time injuries and an increased focus on 
return to work after an injury.

One of the flow-on effects of good safety performance has been 
the continued and sustainable reduction of workers compensation 
premiums. 

10

8
10

GWA Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate

6
8
10

4
6
8

2
4
6
0
2
4

0
2

0

2006

2007

2008

2009

2006

2007

2008

2009

Initiatives introduced for 2008-09 year include:

2006

2007

2008

2009

■■

Improvements to “Visual Factory” (Safety Star and noticeboards)

u    Major sites now have improved visibility of safety performance 

with dedicated noticeboards. This reinforces the safety message;

■■

Increased hazard reporting focus;

■■

 Increased focus and emphasis on supervisor participation and 
awareness of responsibility for health and safety;

■■

Monthly event calendars;

■■

Increased mandatory scheduled audits;

■■

■■

 Integration of Austral Lock (acquired in January 2009) with health 
and safety systems consistent with GWA policies and procedures;

 Upgraded computer-based health and safety system with significant 
improvements to incident reporting protocols and the automatic 
scheduling and reporting of audits undertaken in operational risk 
and general housekeeping.

35

GWA Medical Treatment Injury Frequency Rate

30
35
25
30
20
35
25
15
30
20
10
25
15
5
20
10
0
15
5

10
0

5

0

2006

2007

2008

2009

2006

2007

2008

2009

GWA Injury Severity Rate

2006

2007

2008

2009

6000

5000
6000
4000
5000
6000
3000
4000
5000
2000
3000
4000
1000
2000
3000
0
1000
2000
0
1000

0

2006

2007

2008

2009

2006

2007

2008

2009

2006

2007

2008

2009

11

 
 
 
 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

IN ThE COMMUNITY

GWA takes its role as a good 
corporate citizen very seriously, 
and for this reason, is keen 
to support community events 
and organisations, particularly 
those with a sustainability or 
environmental focus.

GWA takes its role as a good corporate citizen very seriously, and for 
this reason, is keen to support community events and organisations, 
particularly those with a sustainability or environmental focus.

The Company is also committed to forming strong relationships with 
the communities surrounding its operations and making a positive 
contribution wherever possible.

In early 2009, bushfires swept across Victoria, devastating 78 
communities and 400,000 hectares of land. A total of 173 people 
lost their lives. The devastation also resulted in 2,029 homes being 
destroyed along with hundreds of businesses, five schools and 
kindergartens, three sporting clubs and numerous other buildings.

GWA wanted to play its part to support individuals and communities in 
towns and suburbs affected by these devastating fires.

We felt our best opportunity to help those who suffered such profound 
loss was during the reconstruction and recovery phase, which is 
presently underway.

Through a direct approach to the Victorian Government, GWA 
developed a plan to donate to the fit-out of two public information 
centres being built at Kinglake and Marysville, which were the two 
towns worst affected by the fires. These centres will provide vital 
information to home owners seeking to rebuild after the devastation 
of the fires.

Our Gainsborough, Caroma, Dux and Sebel businesses are each 
donating products including locks and door handles, all vitreous china 
products, taps, sinks, solar hot water systems and public seating for 
the two centres.

12

In 2009, GWA’s head office also contributed to numerous events and 
organisations including:

■■

■■

■■

 Sponsorship of the ASX Thomson Reuters Charity Foundation, 
which raises funds for children’s and medical research charities

 Support for the Lions Club of Golden Valley which provides funds 
for local special needs children

 Donating to Variety Australia which contributes to various projects 
assisting the Variety Children’s Charity

■■

Contributing to the Rotary Club of Ipswich

■■

Donating to the Closeburn Rural Fire Brigade.

Individually, our separate businesses also supported several 
community events and organisations throughout the year.

Caroma Dorf was the Exclusive Bathroom Partner for Channel Nine’s 
Jack of All Trades TV series for 2009. Caroma assisted with the design, 
supply and installation of the two complete bathrooms within the 
Jack of all Trades house. The completed house was auctioned and all 
proceeds donated to Cystic Fibrosis Australia and the Mater Hospital 
Brisbane, raising in excess of $250,000.

Caroma Dorf was a sponsor of World Toilet Day in November 2008. 
This event was organised by the not-for-profit Engineers Without 
Borders organisation. The event featured a public art exhibition of 
100 decorated toilet pans at Reddacliff Place and the Queen Street 
Mall in Brisbane. Designed by local creative industries and firms, the 
toilet pan exhibition was created to raise awareness of World Toilet 
Day. This event was established to raise awareness of global sanitation 
issues. Designed toilets were auctioned on eBay after the event with 
all proceeds raised donated towards funding sanitation projects in 
disadvantaged communities via the World Toilet Organisation and 
Water Aid Australia.

Caroma Dorf was a silver sponsor of the Australian Water Association’s 
fifth International Water Association specialist conference on 
efficient use and management of urban water. It was also a diamond 
sponsor of the Kitchen Bathroom Designer Institute (KBDI), a 
national organisation providing kitchen and bathroom designers with 
accreditation, training and professional development opportunities.

GWA is committed to forging strong relationships in the communities 
where it has its operations. With this objective in mind, our 
Gainsborough business is a sponsor of the Kyneton Football Club 
in Victoria, where one of our manufacturing operations is located. 
Fundraising for the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne is a 
further initiative of Gainsborough, which is supported by employee 
contributions.

Our Dux business was the sponsor of the 2008 race day at the famous 
Bong Bong Picnic Races. The race day is one of the biggest sporting 
events in the Southern Highlands attracting thousands of visitors from 
all over Australia. The 2008 race day was the 50th anniversary of 
the races being held at its current location, Wyeera, and was a huge 
success for Dux and its invited guests from Victoria, Queensland and 
parts of New South Wales.

Dux sponsored the Ute Muster at the local Moss Vale Show which 
attracts thousands of local visitors each year. Dux also purchased for 
its staff family passes to the Show so the whole family could enjoy the 
friendly country atmosphere of this very popular event. 

Dux is also sponsoring local sporting clubs – the Moss Vale Junior 
Dragons Rugby League Club, the Moss Vale Soccer Club and the 
Robertson Junior Rugby League Club.

13

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

BUSINESS DIvISIONS

BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Caroma Dorf is Australia’s foremost designer, manufacturer, importer 
and distributor of domestic and commercial bathroom and kitchen 
products. The product range includes sanitaryware, tapware, showers, 
accessories, bathware, stainless steel sinks and laundry tubs. Caroma 
Dorf is at the forefront of product innovation incorporating water saving 
technology and is the market leader in water efficient sanitaryware 
and tapware.

PMS279

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 
Caroma Dorf will maintain leadership in the domestic market by 
creating value for its customers through the development of innovative 
products with appealing design and advanced water saving technology, 
and providing a superior level of customer service. Caroma Dorf will 
continue to invest in its iconic brands to reinforce its brand values. 
Caroma Dorf is committed to continuous process improvement in its 
Australian manufacturing and supply operations. 

MAIN PRODUCTS AND SERvICES
Vitreous china toilet suites, urinals, basins, plastic cisterns, bathroom 
Process Black 75%
accessories and fittings. Acrylic and pressed steel spas, baths and 
shower trays. Tapware, showers and accessories, stainless steel sinks 
and laundry tubs.

MAjOR BRANDS 
Owned: Caroma, Dorf, Fowler, Stylus, Clark, Radiant, Irwell     
Exclusive: Hansa, Schell, KWC, Virtu

OPERATING LOCATIONS 
Australia, New Zealand, North America, China

MAjOR MARkETS 
New dwellings, renovation, replacement and commercial markets in 
Australia, New Zealand and selected international markets.

hEAD OFFICE LOCATION 
Caroma Dorf 
4 Ray Road  
Epping  NSW 2121 
AUSTRALIA 
Telephone 61 2 9202 7000  
Facsimile 61 2 9869 0625

Website:   www.caroma.com.au 

www.fowler.com.au 
www.stylus.com.au 
www.starion-industries.com 
www.dorf.com.au 
www.clark.com.au 
www.irwell.com.au 
www.radiantstainless.com.au 
www.ecologicalsolutions.com

14

 
 
 
BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Dux is an Australian designer, manufacturer, importer and distributor 
of a range of hot water systems. The range includes mains pressure 
gas and electric storage, continuous flow gas, electric and gas boosted 
solar and heat pump products. Dux has developed an extensive 
range of innovative environmental products to meet the changing 
regulatory requirements and which assist in reducing domestic energy 
consumption.

MAIN PRODUCTS AND SERvICES
Range of hot water systems including mains pressure gas and electric 
storage, continuous flow gas, electric and gas boosted solar and heat 
pump products.

MAjOR BRANDS 
Owned: Dux, EcoSmart, Radiant

OPERATING LOCATIONS 
Australia, overseas distributors

MAjOR MARkETS 
Dux participates actively in the new home and replacement markets.  
The primary market for hot water systems is the replacement or 
breakdown market.

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 
Dux will continue to develop and improve its range of environmental 
water heaters to meet the new market requirements of improved 
energy efficiency. Dux will continue to strengthen its key customer 
relationships, and reduce costs through improved factory performance 
and selective sourcing of products and components.

hEAD OFFICE LOCATION 
Dux Manufacturing Limited 
Lackey Road 
Moss Vale  NSW 2577 
AUSTRALIA 
Telephone 61 2 4868 0200 
Facsimile 61 2 4868 2014

Website:   www.dux.com.au 

www.ecosmart.com.au 
www.hotwaterrebate.com.au

15

 
 
 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

BUSINESS DIvISIONS

BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Gainsborough is a leading Australian designer, manufacturer, importer 
and distributor of a comprehensive range of domestic and commercial 
door hardware and fittings, including security products.

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 
Gainsborough’s strategic direction encompasses the development of 
new and innovative door hardware products to suit domestic buildings 
and commercial projects. 

MAIN PRODUCTS AND SERvICES 
A comprehensive range of door hardware comprising door handles 
(knobs and levers), door locks, door closers, hinges and other metal 
door accessories.

MAjOR BRANDS 
Owned: Gainsborough, Trilock, Homecraft, Stronghold Series, 
Contractor Series, In Style, Mode, Aspect, Austral Lock

OPERATING LOCATIONS 
Australia, New Zealand, export markets

MAjOR MARkETS 
Domestic home builders, DIY and building projects, commercial 
buildings and multi-dwelling developments.

hEAD OFFICE LOCATION 
Gainsborough Hardware Industries Limited 
31-33 Alfred Street 
Blackburn  VIC 3130 
AUSTRALIA 
Telephone 61 3 9877 1555 
Facsimile 61 3 9894 1599

Website:   www.gainsboroughhardware.com.au 

www.ausloc.com

16

 
BUSINESS DIvISIONS

BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Sebel is at the forefront of Australian design, manufacture, import and 
distribution of quality commercial furniture and seating.

MAIN PRODUCTS AND SERvICES 
Broad range of commercial furniture suited to its target markets. 
The range includes dining seating and tables, outdoor furniture, mass 
seating for stadia and public areas, casual corporate markets, and 
tables, desks and chairs for the education and aged care markets.

MAjOR BRANDS 
Owned: Sebel

OPERATING LOCATIONS 
Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, Germany and 
dealers in over 50 export markets.

MAjOR MARkETS

Entertainment, hospitality, healthcare, public seating, sports stadia, 
corporate and educational markets. Sells direct to builders, developers, 
clubs and hotels. 

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 
As well as its strong emphasis on new product development, Sebel will 
continue to pursue traditional markets using its strong brand name 
and good customer service to drive sales through increased market 
share. Current export markets will also be expanded, with the division 
pursuing opportunities in education and stadia markets overseas.

hEAD OFFICE LOCATION 
Sebel Furniture Limited 
92 Gow Street 
Padstow  NSW 2211 
AUSTRALIA 
Telephone 61 2 9780 2222 
Facsimile 61 2 9793 3152

Website:  www.sebel.com.au

17

 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

BUSINESS DIvISIONS

BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
Rover is a leading Australian designer, importer and distributor of 
domestic and commercial lawn and garden care equipment.

MAIN PRODUCTS AND SERvICES
Range of walk-behind and ride-on mower equipment, garden chip and 
shred products and spare parts.

MAjOR BRANDS 
Owned: Rover

OPERATING LOCATIONS 
Australia, overseas distributors

MAjOR MARkETS 
Domestic and commercial lawn care and garden products and 
equipment, marketed in over 35 countries.

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 
Rover will continue to target market growth segments in Australia 
and overseas through its focus on new product development and its 
relationships with its key customers.

hEAD OFFICE LOCATION 
Rover Mowers Limited 
155 Fison Avenue West 
Eagle Farm  QLD 4009 
AUSTRALIA 
Telephone 61 7 3213 0222 
Facsimile 61 7 3868 1010

Website:  www.rovermowers.com.au

18

 
ThE GWA SUSTAINABILITY AND  
INNOvATION STORY

19

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

CAROMA DORF –
COMMITMENT TO 
WATER-SAvING INNOvATION

A key area of focus for the 
Caroma Dorf business is the 
design, development and 
commercialisation of a range 
of retrofit-specific water-saving 
product solutions.

logical solutions

Government, businesses and the wider community are actively 
pursuing solutions and initiatives to address sustainability challenges 
including climate change and water usage. Caroma Dorf is committed 
to developing market-leading water saving technologies to meet 
market needs for more water efficient product solutions. A key area of 
focus for the Caroma Dorf business is the design, development and 
commercialisation of a range of retrofit-specific water-saving product 
solutions. These solutions not only help reduce water consumption with 
their design features, they also facilitate the replacement of inefficient 
fixtures in commercial and residential premises.

Winner of the GreenPlumbers Innovative Product of the Year Award, 
the Caroma Flex is designed to cover the footprint of many older 
wall hung toilet pans found in aging commercial bathrooms across 
Australia. Flex features a unique bracket with adjustable inlet and 
outlet connections to suit a range of existing set outs, which makes old 
inefficient pans easier to retrofit.  This installation flexibility reduces 
the need to relocate plumbing and demolish walls, helping lower 
installation costs and making previously cost prohibitive retrofits 
possible. It also minimises the need to re-tile or re-paint over old 
pan footprints.

CAROMA FLEx RETROFIT SOLUTION
Caroma’s Flex Retrofit solution is the only product of its kind in the 
Australian market and it is already recognised for its innovation. The 
Caroma Flex is an advanced and cost-effective way of accelerating the 
retrofit of commercial premises, while reducing water consumption.

With many commercial buildings built in the 1970s and now needing 
refurbishment, Flex provides a retrofit solution previously only possible 
through a full bathroom renovation. These buildings often have 
inefficient fixtures and by providing an innovative, retrofit solution, 
Caroma Dorf is assisting commercial premises to lower their 
water usage.

The Flex pan has been specially developed to be coupled with the new 
Caroma Invisi™ Series II concealed in-wall cistern, which is another 
breakthrough innovation, for a complete water-saving retrofit solution. 

CAROMA RETROFIT CISTERN
The Caroma Sovereign Retro Suite is an innovative product that 
simplifies the retrofitting of older style toilet suites. The suite features 
the unique Retro cistern with a large footprint designed to cover most 
of the old single-flush cisterns. This water-efficient Smartflush® option 
can often be installed without the need for re-tiling or re-paint. This 
4-star water-saving solution results in minimal disruption and cost.

20

RETROFIT PROGRAM PARTNERShIPS
The Caroma Dorf Eco Logical Solutions team works proactively with 
government bodies and the plumbing industry to encourage retrofit 
programs which deliver both product and installation solutions to help 
businesses and communities to more easily upgrade their premises.

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS
With millions of single flush toilet suites still in use across Australia, 
Caroma Dorf continues to provide market-leading, water-saving 
solutions for government-led toilet replacement programs. These 
programs have been developed in consultation with the plumbing 
industry. By providing consumers with a packaged product 
and installation solution, these programs are making it easy for 
householders to reduce their water consumption. These initiatives 
include: 

■■

■■

■■

■■

 Launching the ACT Government ToiletSmart Program in mid-2008. 
This program is now in its second phase with more than 3,900 
single flush and inefficient dual flush toilets already replaced with 
Smartflush® toilet suites. Caroma Dorf worked closely with the ACT 
Government to develop this program, which to date has already led 
to significant water savings and significantly reduced the amount of 
water flowing to the sewerage treatment plant within the Territory 

 Partnering with local councils, Caroma Dorf also played a key role 
in the development of toilet retrofit programs currently underway 
in regional areas of New South Wales including Palerang, Leeton, 
Bathurst and Yass

 Playing an instrumental role in implementing residential toilet 
retrofit programs in Toowoomba (QLD), Dalby (QLD) and Port 
Macquarie (NSW) in 2008; and

 Continuing to work closely with local councils, water authorities and 
government departments around Australia to promote the benefits 
of toilet retrofitting as a cost effective and sustainable solution to 
saving water.

COMMERCIAL RETROFIT INITIATIvES
With a significant amount of water used in bathrooms, commercial 
retrofit solutions are a viable option for companies seeking to save 
water and cut their operating and maintenance expenses by changing 
to more efficient fixtures and fittings. The Caroma Dorf Eco Logical 
team continues to work with government and businesses to develop 
retrofit programs designed to make bathrooms in commercial premises 
more water efficient.

In February 2009, the ACT Government launched a Commercial 
Bathroom Retrofit Program to assist businesses in reducing their water 
consumption.  Caroma Dorf is pleased to be part of this proactive 
initiative, offering a product range designed to meet the needs of most 
commercial buildings.  The program provides eligible businesses with 
access to funding of up to $20,000 per property to replace inefficient 
bathroom fixtures with more water efficient product solutions. 

NEW ECO LOGICAL TOOLS

LAUNCh OF COMMERCIAL WATER 
SAvING CALCULATOR
Caroma Dorf launched a sophisticated new Commercial Water 
Saving Calculator created in conjunction with The Institute for 
Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology, Sydney.  
The calculator supports the Caroma Dorf Eco Logical Solutions 
platform and is an easy-to-use tool that allows businesses to 
review their water usage and make informed decisions about their 
retrofit programs. The calculator further reinforces Caroma Dorf’s 
commitment to delivering innovative environmental solutions to help 
industry to reduce water consumption.

The calculator highlights water savings that can be made from 
installing more efficient bathroom products in commercial 
buildings. For specific retrofit projects, a tailored savings 
assessment can be generated and for new premises the calculator 
can be used to pre-determine future water usage based on the 
efficiency of the fixtures selected. 

SUSTAINABILITY WEBSITE 
Caroma Dorf has launched a new website to support its sustainability 
initiatives.  www.ecologicalsolutions.com reinforces Caroma Dorf’s 
position as a viable partner for sustainability and commitment to 
a sustainable future through the development of environmentally-
friendly bathroom products and the provision of packaged retrofit 
solutions.   

The new website highlights the products, services and tools that 
Caroma Dorf offers to support businesses wanting to reduce water 
consumption. The site is an information hub for commercial and 
residential retrofitting. It is also a platform to keep the market 
informed on the latest water-saving technologies and retrofit initiatives 
from Caroma Dorf.

21

 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

CAROMA’S REvOLUTIONARY INvISI™ SERIES II TOILET SUITE 
WINS 2009 AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD

logical solutions

The Caroma Invisi™ Series II toilet suite collection has been awarded 
the highly acclaimed 2009 Australian International Design Award for 
the Housing and Building Category in recognition of its innovative 
design at the Australian International Design Awards.

“A more comprehensive range of toilet suites is offered by the 
Invisi™ Series II collection, which are suitable for both residential 
and commercial applications. This allows the sophisticated look of 
concealed cistern toilet suites to be integrated into any bathroom.” 

The awards, which are a division of Standards Australia, represent 
Australia’s only national product design awards program, which 
recognises local product design and innovation excellence.

The Invisi™ Series II range is a unique in-wall toilet system recognised 
for its water saving technology and ease of installation for commercial 
and domestic applications. 

The 2009 Design Award for the Invisi™ Series II adds to Caroma’s 
earlier Design Awards for the Smartflush® toilet suite system, which 
innovatively delivers maximum water savings while optimising flushing 
performance, and the H2Zero™ Cube urinal, a sustainable, high 
performance waterless urinal.  

Caroma Dorf’s Research and Design Manager Dr Steve Cummings 
said: “We are proud the Invisi™ Series II has been acknowledged with 
a Design Award amongst so many high quality designs across such 
varied product categories.”

“The Invisi™ Series II has been developed using world class technology 
that breaks new ground in the housing and building sectors,” he said.

The versatile Invisi™ Series II toilet suites are suitable for in-wall, under 
counter, induct and in-ceiling applications, and are the first wall-hung 
toilet suites that fit within a standard 90mm wall cavity with 
450mm centres.

Suite servicing can be completed through the wall-mounted button 
plate to access the cistern and plumbing, as required. 

The Invisi™ Series II also incorporates Caroma’s reliable and proven 
Smartflush® water-saving technology and carries a 4 star Water 
Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rating.

The collection meets all relevant Australian Standards and is 
guaranteed against leaking in wall when installed by a certified 
plumber, in accordance with the installation instructions.

22

  
 
The Invisi™ Series II has been 
developed using world class 
technology that breaks new 
ground in the housing and 
building sectors

23

  
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

DUx hOT WATER –
AWARD WINNING 
ENvIRONMENTAL 
INNOvATION

STRONG GROWTh IN ENvIRONMENTAL WATER 
hEATERS
The hot water market has undergone rapid change over the past three 
to five years with strong growth in high-efficiency gas, solar and heat 
pump water heaters. Legislation, backed by significant government 
incentives, has supported the strong growth of environmental 
water heaters. These incentives are forecast to continue until the 
government’s proposed ban on storage electric water heaters in 2012. 

Dux continues to focus on constant product innovation. In 2008-09 
Dux received industry accolades including: 

■■

■■

■■

■■

 “ Environmental Product of the Year” at the Queensland Plumbing 
Industry Awards 

 “ Environment and Heritage Award” at the Engineering 
Excellence Awards 

WA Master Plumbers “Environmental Product of the Year”

 2009 Endeavour Award “Australian Trade/Consumer 
Product of the Year”

Dux has a highly awarded range of environmental water heaters, 
following the receipt of these important industry accolades.

In September 2008, Dux launched the pioneering rebate website,  
www.hotwaterrebate.com.au. It is the first national website that 
calculates Federal and State Government hot water rebates for 
homeowners across Australia. The website helps to simplify and explain 
rebates as well as making the claim process easier.  With more than 
2.5 million page views in less than a year, it is now the industry’s most 
popular rebate information source. 

Dux also has a strong focus on customer service and training 
improvement. The company will soon launch the ‘Dux Solar University’. 
This will be a state-of-the-art training facility, which will enable staff and 
customers to be provided with the very best technical information on all 
Dux products, their installation and servicing.

24

homeowners can reduce their 
energy costs and household 
carbon emissions by installing 
a solar hot water system.

AIROhEAT®
Airoheat continues to be a highly-successful product. Its unique 
and innovative design has made it an award winning environmental 
hot water system with six prestigious industry awards. Airoheat is an 
efficient compact heat pump water heater as well as being simple, 
convenient and quick to install. Airoheat is very appealing to consumers 
seeking environmentally-friendly solutions because it offers similar 
benefits to electric-boosted solar hot water systems but without the 
need for solar roof panels. This dramatically reduces installation costs 
and complexity. 

GAS BOOSTED SOLAR SYSTEMS
Dux continues to be a strong player in the gas boosted solar hot water 
system market as these systems are among the most environmentally-
friendly hot water solutions available.

There are two types of gas solar hot water systems in the Dux range. 
These include Sunpro 305, which provides a lower entry point price, 
while maintaining all of the benefits of mains pressure hot water.  Its 
compact footprint has made it an ideal choice on smaller building 
blocks, particularly in Victoria.

ELECTRIC BOOSTED SOLAR SYSTEMS
The traditional electric storage water heater is presently the dominant 
hot water system type in Australian households. Homeowners can 
reduce their energy costs and household carbon emissions by 
installing a solar hot water system. The Dux range of Sunpro® electric 
boosted solar hot water systems (along with the Airoheat), is the 
logical replacement for these old electric systems. These systems 
are rapidly gaining popularity among consumers because of their 
environmental benefits. 

The Dux range of Sunpro® electric boosted solar is at the forefront of 
efficiency and will continue to be a hugely popular product of 
the future.

The more efficient gas continuous solar range, which combines a larger 
tank coupled with the Endurance® continuous flow system, has been 
a popular choice for higher-end home builders. This type of system is 
the most efficient on the market and is designed to maximise solar gain 
and provide unlimited hot water.

GAS hOT WATER SYSTEMS
Dux currently has a range of high efficiency gas storage and gas 
continuous flow water heaters. Reticulated natural gas is viewed as an 
inexpensive, environmentally-friendly fuel source for heating water.   

The future for this segment of the market is in highly efficient gas 
systems, which typically have an energy rating of 5 stars or higher. 
Dux continues to develop quality products in these categories with an 
emphasis being placed on efficiency and innovation.

25

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GAINSBOROUGh –
A COMMITMENT TO 
ThE ENvIRONMENT

Gainsborough is committed to 
reducing the use of packaging 
across the supply chain and 
increasing the use of recyclable 
packaging materials.

Gainsborough is actively managing a number of initiatives to improve 
environmental sustainability.

Water usage has been reduced by 55% in core production activities 
over the past three years.

Gainsborough is proud to introduce the exciting new Trilock Eclipse and 
Trilock Omni, both featuring modern styling and the world renowned 
Trilock ‘3 in 1’ functionality with the unique convenience of lockset, 
deadbolt and passage functions. These products are presented in the 
Gainsborough Designer Collection.

Over the past year, solid waste has been reduced by 22%, with further 
waste minimisation initiatives to be implemented later in 2009.

Gainsborough was awarded Certificates of Recognition by the Victorian 
EPA for participation in the Resource Efficiency in Metal Finishing 
Program in 2007 and for participation in the EPA’s Partnership Program 
in 2008.

Product marketing is also subject to a strong program of sustainability.  
As a signatory to the National Packaging Covenant, Gainsborough is 
committed to reducing the use of packaging across the supply chain 
and increasing the use of recyclable packaging materials.

INNOvATIvE NEW PRODUCTS FROM 
GAINSBOROUGh
Gainsborough combines the latest in door hardware styling with Trilock 
‘3 in 1’ functionality, to provide innovative door solutions for 
today’s homes.

The Trilock Eclipse includes a slim, elegantly designed internal and 
external escutcheon plate to add style to exterior doors. This door 
solution is available in a selection of lever designs and finishes and 
combines impressive styling with Trilock ‘3 in 1’ functionality. Finishes 
include bright chrome, fusion and brushed satin chrome. Matching 
leversets are available to coordinate interior doors.

The new Trilock Omni offers all the benefits of Trilock ‘3 in 1’ 
functionality combined with an impressive 600mm stainless steel 
pull handle. 

The external side of the lock features the 600mm pull handle, slim 
escutcheon plate and lever, all manufactured from durable 316 marine-
grade stainless steel. The inside lever and contemporary escutcheon 
plate are finished in popular brushed satin chrome.

There are three fashionable inside lever designs which complement the 
styling of the interior leversets in the Designer Collection’s Accent range.

Both products feature a five-year tarnish resistant and 10 year 
mechanical guarantee.

26

  
SEBEL –
QUALITY FURNITURE 
AND SEATING

SEBEL LEADING ThE WAY IN REDUCING ITS 
ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT ON ThE ENvIRONMENT
Sebel remains at the forefront of injection moulding technology and 
recycling with today’s state-of-the-art factory producing high-quality, 
sustainable products.

In an effort to support sustainability and strategically position Sebel as 
an expert in developing and manufacturing polypropylene products, the 
company sets the environmental and ecological benchmarks within the 
markets that it operates in.

Examples of Sebel’s new innovative sustainable products include:

Postura Chair – 100% Recyclable
The most significant recent event for Sebel has been the release of the 
100% recycled school chair called the Postura.

Education clients demand high quality furniture that withstands the 
rigours of a modern classroom environment.

Sebel has established itself as a market leader and Australia’s largest 
school furniture company.

Sebel has taken the global environmental lead with the new Postura 
totally recycled school chair. The new Sebel Postura recycled school 
chair has been designed and strenuously tested to pass the highest 
Australian and European standards, with key features being strong 
durability and comfort for students of all ages.

Coinciding with the Federal Government’s Building the Education 
Revolution stimulus package, Sebel is now buying back old Sebel 
school chairs, re-manufacturing them and creating totally new 
products. Under Sebel’s new buy-back system, schools can now renew 
their classrooms with bright new chairs at a low cost, while not adding 
to landfill with discarded chairs.

The launch of this product has further consolidated Sebel’s Australian 
and International leadership position in plastic recycling technology.

Chameleon Office Chair Range
To improve our competitive position and profile in the office furniture 
market, Sebel has developed a responsible solution to help clients who 
make their purchasing decisions based on environmental factors.

The Chameleon range is innovative, versatile and environmentally-
friendly. It is GECA certified, and with a NATA certified in-house testing 
facility, the Chameleon range has been tested over 500,000 cycles at 
150kg which is well beyond severe duty standards AS 4438.

All of its plastic components are moulded in Australia, using recycled 
materials (excluding specific outer). At the end of the products useful 
life, it is genuinely recyclable thus reducing our ecological footprint.

This new range will set Sebel apart from this segment of the market 
and create new standards that meet or exceed market requirements.

27

  
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

SUSTAINABILITY 
AND ENvIRONMENT
(OPERATIONS)

Waste Stream

Clay waste

Vitreous china waste

Cardboard packaging

Office paper

All plastics

Bulker bags

One trip pallets

Tonnes per Annum

1440

840

All

All

240 

All

All

GROUP INITIATIvES

GWA’s product ranges in the building fixtures sector have continued 
to provide innovative products that enhance water and energy saving 
measures. GWA’s commitment to sustainability and the environment 
also extends to its operations.  

2008-09 has been another year of significant developments in water and 
energy savings, continuing on from the successes of the 2007-08 year.

Significant highlights include:

CAROMA WEThERILL PARk, NEW SOUTh WALES

■■

 Caroma Wetherill Park became a member of Sustainability 
Advantage – a NSW State Government initiative targeting reduction 
in energy/emissions and awareness of environmental influences 
in manufacturing operations and associated capital projects. 
Objectives and outcomes targeted include maximising efficiency 
of resources employed in manufacturing including electricity, gas 
(natural and LPG) and water.

 As further benefit to Caroma, Wetherill Park has achieved a 75% cost 
reduction on a waste disposal cost base of $1.1million per annum.

Water Recycling/Reduction

■■

 The installation of a new water treatment plant was completed 
last year. Caroma Wetherill Park is now treating all process water, 
and generating water quality suitable for reuse in non-critical plant 
(approximately 40% of total usage). Distribution of recycled water 
is being introduced in phases during the 2009-10 year. In order 
to extend water reuse to critical plant, further enhancement of  
water quality will be required. Capital investment for this project 
is pending approval. When approved it will give Caroma Wetherill 
Park the opportunity to recycle and reuse an estimated 80% of 
total water consumption (approximately 200,000 litres) of which 
170,000 litres is being discharged to Sydney Water sewerage 

■■

 Engineers reprogrammed the computer wash cycles for Pressure 
Casting Moulds to deliver an annual town water usage reduction of 
5,000,000 litres per year.

 Waste Stream Recycling 

Glaze Reclamation  

■■

 Caroma Wetherill Park manufactures vitreous china sanitaryware 
including toilets and hand basins. Caroma has established a 
comprehensive program for segregation of waste streams for recycling  
as outlined in the table above. 

■■

 The most significant recycling initiative has been the clay and 
fired waste (vitreous china) streams which were previously sent to 
landfill. Boral Recycling are now taking 95% of Caroma Wetherill 
Park’s manufacturing waste material by weight. Boral Recycling 
re-use these materials to manufacture (for clay waste) bricks, 
pavers and garden blocks and (for vitreous china waste) as a 
material component for road base and also as an adjunct to brick 
manufacture.

 Caroma Wetherill Park is partnering Boral in the study of further 
uses of the clay and vitreous china waste into other manufactured 
products.

  Paper, cardboard and plastics collected are 100% recycled. 
Timber and particle board pallets, which are classed as single use 
by Caroma, are 95% recycled. These pallets are now being reused 
in other applications or converted to timber chips for reuse in 
landscaping applications.

 It is estimated that for all the waste streams, greater than 95% are 
recycled and reused in secondary manufacturing processes such 
as bricks, road base and recycled paper and cardboard.

28

 The glaze recycling system has now operated successfully for 12 
months. The system, called Xtract, recovers the overspray glaze 
which is applied onto the vitreous china ware. Caroma Wetherill 
Park is reclaiming all overspray at the rate of 336 tonnes per 
annum of recycled glaze, which represents 40% of total glaze 
requirements. The process also produces 8,000 litres of recycled 
water which is re-used in cleaning operations. Previously the used 
glaze was sent to landfill (1,400kg annually) and the water sent to 
waste via the sewer.

Energy Reduction 

■■

■■

■■

■■

■■

 Air conditioning – a combination of replacement, rebalancing and 
installation of timers has occurred in office and canteen areas with 
estimated usage reductions of 25% for these facilities

 Factory air compressors have been refitted to new energy efficient 
inverter drive compressors

 Baseline measurements are currently underway to identify 
opportunities for further efficiency improvements 

 Lighting – lux sensors have been trialled in some factory areas. 
Work is in progress to retro-fit energy efficiency light bulbs 
throughout the Wetherill Park site

 Investigation and feasibility studies are a work in progress for 
the feasibility of co-generation, kiln heat recovery, forklift energy 
conversion and rain water harvesting.

 
  
  
 
  
 
CAROMA NORWOOD, SOUTh AUSTRALIA

NATIONAL PACkAGING COvENANT SIGNATORY

Energy Reduction

■■

 Electricity consumption was reduced by 6% when measured as 
a ratio of consumption compared to factory output.  This was 
achieved via more efficient use of air compressors.

Water Reduction

■■

 Water usage was reduced by 26% compared to the previous year 
when measured as a ratio of usage compared to factory output by 
more efficient use of water for cooling.

SEBEL BANkSTOWN, NEW SOUTh WALES

Energy Reduction

■■

 Sebel conducted an air consumption and energy usage survey on 
three air compressors running on site. Modifications were made 
to control equipment to optimise running times and efficiency.  
Estimated savings are approximately 357,000KWh per annum. 

Water Reduction

■■

 Sebel Bankstown has reduced the water consumption used in 
the cooling towers on site by 50% through reconfiguring the 
cooling tower set-up. This has resulted in an annual saving of 
approximately 30,000 litres per year.

GAINSBOROUGh BLACkBURN, vICTORIA

Plating Waste Reduction

■■

 Plating waste weight reduction of 6.5% has been realised due to 
waste filter cake being allowed to dry out prior to being sent off-site 
as prescribed waste, saving disposal costs. 

       Additional initiatives to be implemented are to capture heat 

generated by die-casting machines into an oven to dry filter cake 
more efficiently. Further advantages can be achieved if waste can 
be stored on-site to be sent away in larger volumes made possible 
due to weight reduction. 

Diecast Waste Reduction

■■

 A program to treat oily water from the diecast process is being 
implemented. Cooling emulsion is currently trapped in machine 
bunds and pumped to holding tanks for disposal as prescribed 
waste. The solution will use chemical separation of emulsion 
streams from holding tanks and will allow the water component 
to be discharged to sewer. The emulsifying agent to be employed 
does not require pH and temperature adjustment, which means 
lower cost for disposal. 

GWA joined the National Packaging Covenant (NPC) during 2008. The 
signatory commitment is for three years. The aim of the scheme is to 
reduce packaging to waste by encouraging recycling, minimisation and 
reuse.  Each GWA division has now submitted an approved action plan. 
During 2009-10 each division will report progress to the NPC against 
approved action plans.

GREENhOUSE GAS INITIATIvES AND REPORTING

Ultimately all identified energy and water savings will reduce 
greenhouse gases. Reduction in water usage frequently leads to 
reduced on-site treatment and typically leads to less energy demands 
for downstream sewerage treatment plants through decreased effluent 
processing. GWA remains committed to sustainability, through energy, 
water and waste reductions in all operations as well as products. 
During 2009, a sustainability group was formed within GWA. The group 
is made up of key operational staff from major operations sites and 
group marketing. The aim of the group is to promote awareness of 
sustainability for both products and processes in GWA by:

■■

■■

■■

■■

 Reducing energy and water consumption in both products 
and processes

Reducing waste in processes

Encouraging recycling of material where practical

 Ensure reporting requirements under NPC and National 
Greenhouse Emissions Reporting (NGER).

National Greenhouse Emissions Reporting (NGER) 

■■

 GWA has been undertaking preparatory work to capture, 
record and report greenhouse gas emissions under NGER. In 
2009, Caroma Wetherill Park will trigger reporting obligations 
for greenhouse gas emissions. Policy and procedures are well 
advanced to report on emissions. A computer based system to 
streamline recording and to assist with compliance to NGER is 
running and, with further enhancements, will be used to help 
provide empirically based data for sustainability based capital 
projects as well as track reductions. The database captures water 
and energy usage at all GWA sites where there is operational 
control. It is expected that all GWA sites will report greenhouse 
gas emissions during the 2009-10 financial year. 

29

BARRY ThORNTON AM kSj FCA FAICD FAIM FCIS
Chairman and Non-Executive Director, Elected to the 
Board 1992

■■

■■

 Expertise: Chartered Accountant, corporate and financial 
management

 Special Responsibilities: Chairman of the Board, Chairman of 
Nomination Committee and member of Audit Committee

Mr Thornton joined the former public company, GWA Limited 
in 1974 as Finance Director and was appointed Chief Executive 
in 1981.  In 1986, he was appointed Executive Chairman and, 
following the privatisation of GWA Limited in 1989 and the public 
float of the Manufacturing Division as GWA International Limited 
in 1993, he became Non-Executive Chairman.  He is a former 
director of many major listed public companies, including Stockland 
Corporation Limited and Suncorp-Metway Limited.  He is also a 
former Chairman of the Brisbane Airport Corporation Limited and the 
Ports Corporation of Queensland.

PETER CROWLEY BA B ECON FAICD
Managing Director, Appointed 2003

■■

 Expertise: Broad manufacturing experience in Australia 
and overseas

2001:   Managing Director and Chief Executive, Austrim Nylex 

Limited, a diversified industrial company;  

1999:   Executive Director, Cement and Lime, The Rugby Group PLC, 

a UK Public Company with extensive international cement 
operations. During this period, also served as a director of 
Adelaide Brighton Limited;  

1997:   Chief Executive, Cockburn Cement Limited (a subsidiary of 
The Rugby Group PLC), Western Australia’s largest cement 
producer and Australia’s largest lime producer;  

1982:   Various roles with Queensland Cement Limited and its parent 

company Holderbank culminating in General Management 
responsibilities within Australia and South-East Asia.

30

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED   2008 ANNUAL REPORT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

jIM kENNEDY AO CBE DUNIv (QUT) FCA FCPA
Deputy Chairman and Non-Executive Director,  
Elected to the Board 1992

■■

■■

 Expertise: Chartered Accountant, corporate and financial 
management

 Special Responsibilities: Deputy Chairman of the Board and 
Chairman of Audit Committee

Mr Kennedy is one of Australia’s most experienced major listed 
public company directors.

During the past three years, Mr Kennedy has served as a director 
of the following other listed companies, and the period in which the 
directorships have been held:

■■

■■

■■

Suncorp-Metway Limited 1997 - 2006

Australian Securities Exchange Limited 1990 - 2006

Qantas Airways Limited 1995 - 2006

ROBERT ANDERSON
Non-Executive Director, Elected to the Board 1992

■■

Expertise: Property investment and transport logistics

Mr Anderson was appointed a director of the former public 
company, GWA Limited in 1979 after joining the Group in 1955 
where he gained wide experience in management, investment 
and property matters.

Mr Anderson was appointed a Non-Executive Director of GWA 
International Limited in 1992.

30

DAvID BARRY FAIM
Non-Executive Director, Elected to the Board 1992

DARRYL MCDONOUGh 

BBUS (ACTY), LLB (hONS), SjD,  FCPA, FAICD

■■

■■

Expertise: Importation, distribution and retailing

Special Responsibilities: Member of Remuneration Committee

Mr Barry was appointed a director of the former public company, 
GWA Limited in 1979 and was primarily responsible for one of its 
major divisions involved in importation, wholesaling and retailing.

Mr Barry was appointed a Non-Executive Director of GWA 
International Limited in 1992.

RIChARD ThORNTON CA B COM LLB (hONS) LLM
Executive Director and Company Secretary, Elected 
to the Board 2009

Non-Executive Director, Elected to the Board 2009

■■

■■

Expertise: Lawyer and experienced public company director

Special Responsibilities: Member of Nomination Committee

Darryl McDonough is a practicing solicitor with over 25 years of 
corporate experience.  He has served as a director of a number 
of public companies in the past, including Bank of Queensland 
Limited and is currently a director of Super Cheap Auto Group 
Limited and is a Past-President of The Australian Institute of 
Company Directors, Queensland Division.

During the past three years, Mr McDonough has served as a 
director of the following other listed company, and the period in 
which the directorship has been held:

■■

Expertise: Chartered Accountant, taxation and finance

■■

Super Cheap Auto Group Limited since 2004
*

Mr Thornton joined GWA International Limited in 2002 as Group 
Taxation Manager and Treasurer and was appointed Company 
Secretary in 2003.  He is a Chartered Accountant and is 
experienced in accounting, taxation and finance through positions 
at Coopers & Lybrand, Citibank and Ernst & Young in Australia and 
overseas.  Mr Thornton continued in his role as Company Secretary 
following his appointment as an Executive Director.

*denotes current directorship

GEOFF MCGRATh MIIE
Non-Executive Director, Elected to the Board 2004

BILL BARTLETT FCA, CPA, FCMA, CA(SA)
Non-Executive Director, Elected to the Board 2007

■■

■■

Expertise: Manufacturing and general management

Special Responsibilities: Chairman of Remuneration Committee 

and member of Nomination Committee

■■

■■

2003: Mr McGrath retired as Managing Director of GWA International 
Limited on 6 May 2003, and continued his involvement with the 
Group as an adviser to the Board; 

1992: Mr McGrath was appointed Managing Director of GWA 
International Limited;  

1982: After the takeover of UPL Group by the former public 
company, GWA Limited, Mr McGrath was appointed Managing 
Director of the GWA Manufacturing Group companies comprising 
Caroma, Sebel and Rover Mowers.

During the past three years, Mr McGrath has served as a director 
of the following other listed companies, and the period in which the 
directorships have been held:

■■

■■

Campbell Brothers Limited since 2003*

+

Fletcher Building Limited  2003 – 2009

*denotes current directorship 
+denotes Chairman

 Expertise: Chartered Accountant, actuarial, insurance and 
financial services

 Special Responsibilities: Member of Audit Committee and member 
of Remuneration Committee

Mr Bartlett is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, with 
over 35 years experience in accounting, and was a partner at Ernst 
& Young in Australia for 23 years, retiring on 30 June 2003. He is a 
director of the Bradman Foundation and Museum. 

During the past three years, Mr Bartlett has served as a director of 
the following other listed companies, and the period in which the 
directorships have been held:

■■

■■

■■

■■

Suncorp-Metway Limited since 2003*

Reinsurance Group of America Inc (NYSE) since 2004*

Arana Therapeutics Limited (formerly Peptech Limited) 2004 - 2007

Abacus Property Group since 2007*

■■

Retail Cube Limited 2004 – 2006

*denotes current directorship

31

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

CORPORATE GOvERNANCE 
STATEMENT FOR ThE YEAR 
ENDED 30 jUNE 2009

The Board adopts practices it 
considers to be superior and which 
will lead to better outcomes for the 
Company’s shareholders, whilst 
endeavouring to avoid those which 
are based on unsound principles.

The Board of Directors is responsible for the corporate governance 
of GWA International Limited (“the Company”) which is an essential 
part of the role of the Board. The corporate governance practices 
of the Company have been in place since listing and are constantly 
reassessed in the light of experience, contemporary views and 
guidelines on corporate governance practices. The Board adopts 
practices it considers to be superior and which will lead to better 
outcomes for the Company’s shareholders, whilst endeavouring to 
avoid those which are based on unsound principles.

The Board supports the Corporate Governance Principles and 
Recommendations (“the recommendations”) of the ASX Corporate 
Governance Council. The Board confirms that the current 
corporate governance practices of the Company meet or exceed 
the recommendations, except for Recommendation 2.2 which 
provides that the chairperson should be an independent director. 
The Chairman of the Company, Mr Barry Thornton, would not be 
considered an independent director in accordance with the definition 
of independence outlined in the recommendations, as he is associated 
with a substantial shareholder. This matter is outlined in more detail 
below – refer Independence of Directors.

PRINCIPLE 1 – LAY SOLID FOUNDATIONS FOR 
MANAGEMENT AND OvERSIGhT

ROLE OF ThE BOARD
The Board is responsible for the long term growth and financial 
performance of the Company. The Board charts the strategic direction 
of the Company and monitors executive and senior management 
performance on behalf of shareholders. To achieve this, the Board is 
engaged in the following activities:

■■

 Providing input into and final approval of corporate strategies and 
performance objectives developed by senior management

■■

Approval and monitoring of financial and other reporting

■■

■■

■■

■■

■■

 Monitoring of executive and senior management performance, 
including the implementation of corporate strategies, and ensuring 
appropriate resources are available

 Appointment and monitoring of the performance of the Managing 
Director

 Liaison with the Company’s External Auditor through the Audit 
Committee

 Ensuring that the Company has appropriate systems of risk 
management and internal controls, reporting mechanisms and 
delegation authority limits in place

 Approval and monitoring of the progress of major capital 
expenditure, capital management, acquisitions and divestments

32

■■

 Any other matters required to be dealt with by the Board from time 
to time depending upon circumstances of the Company

■■

Other matters referred to in the Board Committee charters

 The Board operates under a charter that details the functions and 
responsibilities of the Board. The charter is regularly reviewed 
to ensure it remains consistent with the Board’s objectives and 
responsibilities.

DELEGATIONS POLICY
The Board has approved a Delegations Policy which clearly outlines 
the authorities of the Board and those which have been delegated 
to senior management. The policy ensures that senior management 
understands the authorities delegated by the Board and are 
accountable to the Board for its compliance. Regular reviews are 
conducted on the appropriateness of the delegated authorities, and 
any material breaches are reported to the Board. 

LETTER OF APPOINTMENT
New directors of the Company are provided with a formal letter of 
appointment which outlines the key terms and conditions of their 
appointment. Similarly, senior executives including the Managing 
Director and Chief Financial Officer have formal job descriptions and 
letter of appointment describing their salary arrangements, rights and 
responsibilities and entitlements on termination. 

PERFORMANCE REvIEWS
Performance reviews of staff including senior executives are conducted 
formally on an annual basis. The performance review process is 
critical to the development of staff and enables performance issues 
to be addressed. The Company has identified core competencies 
for the key roles in the organisation and these are incorporated into 
the job descriptions. During the performance review process, the 
performance of staff is assessed against the business objectives and 
core competencies.

PRINCIPLE 2 – STRUCTURE ThE BOARD TO ADD 
vALUE

BOARD MEETINGS
The Board meets at least 11 times each year for scheduled meetings 
and may, on other occasions, meet to deal with specific matters that 
require attention between scheduled meetings. Together with the 
Board Committees, the Directors use the Board meetings to challenge 
and fully understand the business and its operational issues. To assist 
with the Board’s understanding of the businesses, the Board regularly 
conducts Board meetings at the various business locations, followed by 
management presentations and site tours. 

The Divisional General Managers are required to regularly attend and 
present at the Board meetings on operational issues and performance. 
A Group strategy meeting is held annually as part of the budget 
approval process, which enables the Board to review corporate 
strategies and performance with the Divisional General Managers. This 
ensures that the Board is effectively carrying out its duties of providing 
input into and approving corporate strategies and performance 
objectives.

The Chief Financial Officer is required to attend Board meetings and 
present the Finance Department Monthly Report, and to answer 
questions from the directors on financial performance, accounting, risk 
management and treasury matters.

The Company Secretary is responsible for the completion and 
dispatch of the agenda and Board papers for each meeting. The 
Company Secretary prepares the draft minutes for each meeting, 
which are tabled at the next Board meeting for review and approval. 
The Company Secretary is accountable to the Board, through the 
Chairman, on all corporate governance matters.

COMPOSITION OF ThE BOARD
The Board presently comprises 9 directors, 7 of whom, including the 
Chairman and Deputy Chairman, are non-executive directors and 2, 
the Managing Director and Executive Director, are executive directors. 

Profiles of the directors are set out on in the Annual Report. The 
profiles outline the skills, experience and expertise of each Board 
member, including the period of office held by each director.

The composition of the Board is determined by the Nomination 
Committee and, where appropriate, external advice is sought. The 
following principles and guidelines are adhered to:

■■

The Board should maintain a majority of non-executive directors

■■

The Chairperson should be a non-executive director

■■

■■

■■

 The role of Chairperson and Managing Director should not be 
exercised by the same individual

 Non-executive directors should not be involved in management of 
the day to day operations of the Company

 All Board members should be financially literate and have relevant 
experience in the industries in which the Company operates

RE-ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
In accordance with the Company’s constitution, at each Annual 
General Meeting, a number of directors will face re-election. One third 
of the Board (excluding the Managing Director and any director not 
specifically required to stand for re-election) must stand for re-election. 
In addition, no director (other than the Managing Director) may hold 
office for more than three years without standing for re-election, and 
any director appointed by the Board since the last Annual General 
Meeting must stand for re-election at the next Annual General Meeting. 
All retiring directors are eligible for re-election.

INDEPENDENCE OF DIRECTORS
The Board considers that directors must be independent from 
management and free of any business or other relationship that could 
interfere, or reasonably be perceived to interfere, with the exercise 
of their unfettered and independent judgment. In considering the 
relationships which may affect independent status as outlined in the 
recommendations of the ASX Corporate Governance Council, it has 
been determined that the majority of the Board members of GWA 
International Limited are independent.

The following directors are considered by the Board to constitute the 
independent non-executive directors of the Company:

■■

Mr Jim Kennedy, Deputy Chairman and Non-Executive Director

■■

Mr David Barry, Non-Executive Director

■■

Mr Robert Anderson, Non-Executive Director

■■

Mr Bill Bartlett, Non-Executive Director

■■

Mr Darryl McDonough, Non-Executive Director

■■

Mr Geoff McGrath, Non-Executive Director.

33

 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

The Board is responsible for ensuring that the action of individual 
directors in the Boardroom is that of independent persons. The Board 
distinguishes between the concept of independence and issues of 
conflict of interest or material personal interest which may arise from 
time to time – refer Conflicts of Interest below.

In recognising the importance of the independence of directors 
and the immediate disclosure of conflicts of interest, the Board has 
included both matters as permanent items on the agenda at Board 
meetings. Any independence or conflict of interest issues arising 
during the relevant period must be disclosed to the Chairman prior 
to each Board meeting. The disclosure is recorded in the Register of 
Directors’ Interests and in the Board minutes.

(i)    Mr Barry Thornton – Chairman and 

Non-Executive Director

As indicated earlier, the Chairman, Mr Barry Thornton, would not 
be considered an independent director based on the definition 
of independence outlined in the recommendations of the ASX 
Corporate Governance Council. This is on the basis that Mr Thornton 
is associated with a substantial shareholder. In the Board’s view, 
Mr Thornton’s association with a substantial shareholder in no way 
prevents Mr Thornton from exercising independent judgment in 
carrying out his duties as Chairman of the Board. Mr Thornton is a long 
serving Chairman and has overseen the efficient and effective conduct 
of the Board’s functions since listing.

In the event that any independence or conflict of interest issue 
arises with respect to Mr Thornton’s association with a substantial 
shareholder, the Company has procedures in place for the Deputy 
Chairman to assume the role as acting Chairman of the Board.

(ii)  Mr Geoff McGrath – Non-Executive Director
In previous years, Mr Geoff McGrath was deemed not to be an 
independent director as he was the former Managing Director until his 
retirement in May 2003. It has been more than three years since the 
appointment of Mr McGrath as a non-executive director in July 2004. 
Accordingly, Mr McGrath now meets the definition of an independent 
director as outlined in the recommendations of the ASX Corporate 
Governance Council. In the Board’s view, Mr McGrath exercises 
independent judgement in carrying out his duties as director and 
should be considered an independent director.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
The directors are required to disclose to the Board any relationships 
from which a conflict of interest might arise.  A director who has an 
actual or potential conflict of interest or a material personal interest in 
a matter is required to absent himself from any meeting of the Board 
or Board Committee, whenever the matter is considered. In addition, 
the director does not receive any Board papers or other documents in 
which there is a reference to the matter.

This process is applied to business and trading relationships, dealings 
with the directors, dealings with companies with common directors and 
dealings with any significant shareholders of the Company.

The materiality thresholds used for the determination of independence 
and issues of conflict of interest has been considered from the point 
of view of the Company and directors. For the Company, a relationship 
which accounts for 5% or more of its revenue is considered material. 
For a director, a relationship which accounts for 5% or more of the 
total income of a director is considered material. Directors’ fees are not 
subject to this test.

ACCESS TO INDEPENDENT ADvICE
Directors and the Board Committees have the right in connection with 
their duties and responsibilities to seek independent advice at the 
Company’s expense. Prior written approval of the Chairman is required, 
but this will not be unreasonably withheld. Where appropriate, directors 
share such advice with the other directors.

NOMINATION COMMITTEE
The Nomination Committee meets as required and on several 
occasions throughout the year. For membership and attendance details 
of the Nomination Committee, refer to the Directors’ Report.

The composition of the Nomination Committee is based on the 
following principles:

■■

■■

■■

 The Nomination Committee should consist of non-executive 
directors only

 The Nomination Committee should consist of a minimum of three 
members

 The Chairperson should be the Chairperson of the Board or 
another non-executive director.

The Nomination Committee operates under a charter that details the 
Committee’s role and responsibilities, composition, structure and 
membership requirements. The charter is regularly reviewed to ensure 
it remains consistent with the Board’s objectives and responsibilities.

The main responsibilities of the Committee include:

■■

 Assessment of the necessary and desirable competencies of Board 
members

■■

Review of the Board succession plans

■■

 Evaluation of the performance and contributions of Board members

■■

Recommendations for the appointment and removal of directors

■■

■■

 Review of the remuneration framework for the non-executive 
directors

 Reporting to the Board on the Committee’s role and responsibilities 
covering all the functions in its charter.

In performing its responsibilities, the Nomination Committee receives 
appropriate advice from external consultants and other advisers 
as required.

The Company Secretary prepares the draft minutes for each 
Nomination Committee meeting, which are tabled at the next 
Nomination Committee meeting for review and approval. The draft 
minutes are also included in the Board papers of the next Board 
meeting following the Nomination Committee meeting.

34

SELECTION AND APPOINTMENT OF DIRECTORS
The Nomination Committee is responsible for the selection and 
appointment of directors. In the circumstances where there is a need 
to appoint a director, whether due to the retirement of a director, 
growth of the Company, or changed circumstances of the Company, 
certain procedures will be followed, including the following:

■■

■■

 Determination of the skills and experience appropriate for an 
appointee, having regard to those of the existing directors and other 
likely changes to the Board;

 Upon identifying a potential appointee, consider the competency 
and qualifications, independence, other directorships, time 
availability, and the effect that their appointment would have on the 
overall balance of the composition of the Board; and

■■

The Board members consent to the proposed appointee.

INDUCTION PROGRAM
The Nomination Committee is responsible for ensuring that an effective 
induction program for new directors is in place, and regularly reviewed 
to ensure its effectiveness. The Board has developed a comprehensive 
induction program for new directors to allow the new appointees to 
participate fully and actively in Board decision making. The Board 
views the induction program as critical in enabling the new directors 
to gain an understanding of the Company and the markets in which it 
operates.

PERFORMANCE EvALUATION
On an annual basis, the Nomination Committee conducts a formal 
evaluation of the performance of Board, the Board Committees and the 
individual Board members to determine whether functioning effectively 
by reference to current good practice. The performance evaluation 
is conducted by the Chairman of the Board through interviews with 
individual Board members, the results of which are reported to 
the Board.

PRINCIPLE 3 – PROMOTE EThICAL AND 
RESPONSIBLE DECISION-MAkING

CODE OF CONDUCT
The Company’s objective is to conduct its business with the highest 
standards of personal and corporate integrity. To assist employees in 
achieving this objective, the Company has developed a comprehensive 
Code of Conduct which guides the behaviour of directors, officers 
and employees and demonstrates the commitment of the Company 
to ethical practices. The Code of Conduct is incorporated as part of 
new employees’ induction training and an acceptance form is signed 
by new employees acknowledging their understanding and on-going 
compliance.

The Code of Conduct states the values and policies of the Company 
and complements the Company’s risk management and internal 
control practices. The Code of Conduct is regularly reviewed and 
updated to ensure that it reflects current good practice, and to promote 
the ethical behaviour of all employees.

ShARE TRADING POLICY
The Company has developed a share trading policy which prohibits 
directors, officers and other “potential insiders” from trading in GWA 
International Limited shares during designated periods. The designated 
periods are 30 June until the release of the Company’s full year results 
to the Australian Securities Exchange and 31 December until the 
release of the Company’s half year results to the Australian Securities 
Exchange, unless otherwise determined by the directors.

Outside of these designated periods, there are no trading restrictions 
where the directors, officers and other “potential insiders” are not 
in the possession of unpublished insider information. At all times, 
if an employee possesses unpublished insider information about 
the Company, that person is prohibited from trading. In addition, 
employees must not engage in any short-term trading in the 
Company’s shares.

As an additional restriction, the directors must advise the Chairman 
prior to trading outside the designated periods and confirm to the 
Chairman that they do not possess unpublished insider information. 
The policy also requires the directors to notify the Company Secretary 
within three business days after trading, to enable the Company 
Secretary to lodge the required disclosures with the Australian 
Securities Exchange.

PRINCIPLE 4 – SAFEGUARD INTEGRITY IN 
FINANCIAL REPORTING

AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Audit Committee meets as required and on several occasions 
throughout the year. For membership and attendance details of the 
Audit Committee, refer to the Annual Report.

 The composition of the Audit Committee is based on the following 
principles:

■■

 The Audit Committee should consist of non-executive directors only

■■

 The Chairperson of the Audit Committee must not be Chairperson 
of the Board

■■

The Audit Committee should consist of at least three members

■■

 The Audit Committee should include members who are financially 
literate with at least one member who has financial and accounting 
related expertise.

The Audit Committee is governed by a charter which outlines the 
Committee’s role and responsibilities, composition, structure and 
membership requirements. The charter is regularly reviewed to ensure 
it remains consistent with the Board’s objectives and responsibilities. A 
detailed Terms of Reference has been developed to ensure the Audit 
Committee meeting agenda is consistent with the Committee’s role and 
responsibilities as outlined in the charter.

35

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

The External Auditor, Managing Director, Chief Financial Officer, 
Company Secretary, Group Commercial Manager, and other Company 
executives (as required) attend Audit Committee meetings, by 
invitation, to present the relevant statutory information, Financial 
Statements, reports, and to answer the questions of the Audit 
Committee members. At the Audit Committee meetings, the Audit 
Committee members will meet with the External Auditor without 
management present.

During each year, the Audit Committee examines the non-audit 
roles performed by the audit firm and other potential audit service 
providers to satisfy itself that the auditor’s independence will not be 
compromised and that alternate providers are available, if considered 
desirable. Whilst the value of the non-audit services could, in extreme 
cases, compromise audit independence, more important is to ensure 
that the External Auditor is not passing an audit opinion on the non-
audit work of its own firm. 

The main responsibilities of the Audit Committee include:

■■

Review of financial statements and external financial reporting

■■

Assess the management processes supporting external reporting

During the year, the Company’s External Auditor, KPMG, provided an 
Auditor Independence Declaration to the Board (refer to the Directors’ 
Report) that, to the best of their knowledge and belief, there have been 
no contraventions of:

■■

■■

■■

 Assess whether the external reporting is adequate to meet the 
information needs for shareholders

 Recommendations on the appointment and removal of the External 
Auditor

■■

■■

 the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 
2001 in relation to the audit; and

 any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to 
the audit.

 Review and monitor the performance and independence of the 
external audit

In considering this declaration, the Board were satisfied with the 
continuing independence of the audit function.

■■

 Review of tax planning and tax compliance systems and processes

■■

■■

■■

 Review and monitor risk management and internal compliance and 
control systems

 Assess the performance and objectivity of the internal 
audit function

 Reporting to the Board on the Committee’s role and responsibilities 
covering all the functions in its charter.

The Company Secretary prepares the draft minutes for each Audit 
Committee meeting, which are tabled at the next Audit Committee 
meeting for review and approval. The draft minutes are also included 
in the Board papers of the next Board meeting following the Audit 
Committee meeting.

CERTIFICATION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
The Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer state in writing to 
the Board each reporting period that in their opinion the Company’s 
financial reports present a true and fair view of the Company’s financial 
position and performance, and are in accordance with relevant 
Accounting Standards. The statements from the Managing Director 
and Chief Financial Officer are based on a formal sign-off framework 
established throughout the Company and reviewed by the Audit 
Committee as part of the financial reporting process.

AUDITOR INDEPENDENCE
The Board recognises the importance of a truly independent audit 
firm to ensure that the audit function delivers, for the benefit of the 
Board and all other stakeholders, an unbiased confirmation of both 
the Financial Statements and the state of affairs of the Company. 
Consistent with the Board’s commitment to an independent audit firm, 
a policy has been approved by the Board on the role of the External 
Auditor, which is designed to ensure the independence of the external 
audit function.

For details of the non-audit roles performed by KPMG during the year, 
please refer to the notes to the Financial Statements.

SELECTION AND APPOINTMENT OF ExTERNAL 
AUDITOR
Following shareholder approval at the 2004 Annual General Meeting, 
KPMG were appointed External Auditor for the financial year 
commencing 1 July 2004 after a comprehensive tender process 
conducted by the Audit Committee. KPMG replaced Ernst & Young 
who had been the External Auditor since 1995. 

ROTATION OF ExTERNAL AUDITOR
KPMG has advised the Company that their policy of audit partner 
rotation requires a change in the lead engagement partner and review 
partner after a period of five years. An audit partner rotation plan has 
been reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee to ensure the 
transition process is managed effectively.

PRINCIPLE 5 – MAkE TIMELY AND BALANCED 
DISCLOSURE
The Company is committed to ensuring the timely disclosure of 
material information through compliance with the continuous 
disclosure obligations in the ASX Listing Rules and the Corporations 
Act 2001. The Company includes continuous disclosure as a 
permanent item on the agenda for Board meetings. The Board has 
approved a Continuous Disclosure Policy to ensure the Company 
complies with the continuous disclosure requirements, and to ensure 
accountability at the executive and senior management level for that 
compliance.

The Managing Director is the Company’s Continuous Disclosure 
Compliance Officer and is responsible for ensuring compliance with the 
continuous disclosure requirements, and overseeing and authorising 
disclosure of information to the ASX. All media releases which contain 
material price sensitive information must be approved by the Board 
prior to release to the ASX. 

The Company Secretary coordinates the communications with the 
ASX including ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and 
overseeing information released to the ASX, shareholders and other 
interested parties. Announcements made to the ASX by the Company 
are published on the Company’s website immediately after release.

36

PRINCIPLE 6 – RESPECT ThE RIGhTS OF 
ShAREhOLDERS
The Company is committed to ensuring shareholders and the financial 
markets are provided with full, open and timely information about its 
activities. This is achieved by the following:

■■

■■

■■

■■

■■

 Ensuring that shareholder communications (including Annual 
Report, Half Year Report and Notice of Annual General Meeting) 
satisfy relevant regulatory requirements and guidelines. The 
Company is committed to producing shareholder communications 
in plain English with full and open disclosure about the Company’s 
policies and procedures, operations and performance

 Ensuring that shareholders have the opportunity to receive 
external announcements by the Company through the corporate 
website, www.gwail.com.au. All Company announcements and 
information released to the market are located on the website 
and may be accessed by shareholders. There is a Corporate 
Governance section on the website which outlines the practices 
of the Company, and other Company information including the 
Company’s environmental and social impacts

 The Board is committed to the enhancement of electronic 
communications with shareholders to reduce the environmental 
impact and costs. Shareholders can elect to receive Company 
communications electronically, although not all communications 
are made available electronically. Annual Reports are no longer 
printed and mailed to shareholders, unless specifically requested. 
Annual Reports are made available to shareholders on the 
Company’s website in an accessible and user friendly format. 
Shareholders are mailed the Notice of Annual General Meeting and 
Proxy Form, which includes details on accessing the online Annual 
Report and proxy voting

 The Company encourages shareholders to attend and participate 
at the Annual General Meeting to canvass the relevant issues 
of interest with the Board. If shareholders are unable to attend 
the Annual General Meeting personally, they are encouraged 
to participate through proxy voting. The Company has recently 
embraced online proxy voting to make it easier for shareholders 
to lodge their proxy votes if they are unable to attend the Annual 
General Meeting. The Company endeavours to set the timing and 
the location of the Annual General Meeting so that it is convenient 
for shareholders generally

 The External Auditor attends the Annual General Meeting and is 
available to answer questions from shareholders about the conduct 
of the audit and the preparation and content of the Independent 
Audit Report. Shareholders attending the Annual General Meeting 
are made aware they can ask questions of the External Auditor 
concerning the conduct of the audit.

PRINCIPLE 7 – RECOGNISE AND 
MANAGE RISk
The Board recognises that effective risk management processes help 
ensure the business is more likely to achieve its business objectives, 
and that the Board meets its corporate governance responsibilities. In 
meeting its responsibilities, the Board has ensured that management 
has put in place comprehensive risk management policies and 
practices across the Company which addresses each of the key 
elements and requirements of AS/NZS Standard 4360: 2004 – 
Risk Management.

Such processes include defining the risk oversight responsibilities of 
the Board and the responsibilities of management in ensuring risks 
are both identified and effectively managed. The agreed policies and 
practices are made effective through the combined activities of:

■■

■■

■■

■■

■■

■■

 an Audit Committee that reports to the Board on risk management 
and internal control matters in accordance with its main 
responsibilities as outlined in the Audit Committee Charter. Whilst 
ultimate responsibility for risk oversight rests with the Board, 
the Audit Committee is an efficient mechanism for focusing the 
Company on risk oversight, risk management and internal control

 an Executive Risk Committee (ERC), comprising the executive and 
senior management of the Company, which has been established 
to identify business risks in the organisation and review status and 
risk mitigation activities. Formal enterprise risk profiles have been 
prepared for the businesses and these are reviewed quarterly 
by the ERC. The major business risks are reported to the Audit 
Committee at the June and December meetings together with risk 
mitigation activities. The ERC reports to the Audit Committee on its 
activities as outlined in the ERC Charter

 a Finance Committee, comprising the executive and senior 
management of the Company, which has been established to 
review and monitor the financial risks in the organisation and 
oversee the execution of finance policies and risk mitigation 
activities. The Finance Committee reports to the Audit Committee 
on its activities as outlined in the Finance Committee charter

 a Group Commercial Manager who has primary responsibility 
for designing, implementing and coordinating the overall risk 
management and internal control practices of the Company. The 
Group Commercial Manager attends the Audit Committee meetings 
to present the Internal Audit Report. Whilst reporting to the Chief 
Financial Officer on a day to day basis, the Group Commercial 
Manager has the authority to report directly to the Board on 
any matter

 a Group Risk Manager, who has specific responsibilities in respect 
of operational risks including occupational health and safety, 
business continuity, environmental and sustainability risks. The 
Group Risk Manager prepares a monthly Group Risk Report for 
the Board and attends the June and December Audit Committee 
meetings to present the Operational Risk Report

 Internal Audit activities, undertaken by a combination of internal 
and appropriately qualified external resources, based on an Audit 
Committee approved programme of work. Such activities link to the 
risk management practices of the Company by ensuring risks are 
being adequately identified and managed through the effective and 
efficient operation of control procedures.

The Company has implemented risk management software across 
the Group for the purpose of identifying and managing occupational 
health and safety, business continuity and environmental risks. The 
software is a critical tool for senior management and has enhanced 
the identification, reporting and monitoring of actions in this important 
area, in order to support management’s objectives.

37

In performing its responsibilities, the Remuneration Committee 
receives appropriate advice from external consultants and other 
advisers as required.

The Company Secretary prepares the draft minutes for each 
Remuneration Committee meeting, which are tabled at the next 
Remuneration Committee meeting for review and approval. The draft 
minutes are also included in the Board papers of the next Board 
meeting following the Remuneration Committee meeting.

REMUNERATION POLICIES
The Board’s objective in setting the Company’s remuneration policies 
is to provide maximum stakeholder benefit from the retention of a high 
quality Board and executive team. This is achieved by remunerating 
directors and executives fairly and appropriately based on relevant 
employment market conditions, and the linking of the Managing 
Director’s and executives emoluments to the Company’s financial and 
operating performance to align with shareholder wealth creation.

The Nomination Committee is responsible for determining the 
remuneration for the non-executive directors, with the maximum 
aggregate amount approved by shareholders. The non-executive 
directors receive their remuneration by way of directors’ fees only 
(including statutory superannuation), and are not able to participate in 
the incentive schemes for the executives.

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for reviewing and 
determining the remuneration and incentive arrangements for the 
executives.  The Remuneration Committee takes advice from external 
remuneration consultants to assist in determining market remuneration 
levels. The remuneration and incentive arrangements have been 
structured to ensure that performance is fairly rewarded and to attract, 
motivate and retain a high quality executive team.

For details of the Company’s remuneration policies and disclosures, 
refer to the Remuneration Report.

LONG TERM INCENTIvE (EQUITY) PLAN

Shareholders approved a new Long Term Incentive (Equity) Plan 
(LTIP) as part of the incentive arrangements for executives at the 2008 
Annual General Meeting. Full details of the operation of the LTIP is 
described in the Remuneration Report.

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

Risk management is embedded in the Company’s policies and 
procedures which have enabled the Company to pro-actively identify 
and manage all types of risk within the organisation. The Board aims to 
continually evaluate and re-assess the risk management and internal 
control practices of the Company to ensure current good practice is 
maintained, and to preserve and create value within the organisation. 

CERTIFICATION OF RISk MANAGEMENT 
CONTROLS
In conjunction with the certification of financial reports, the Managing 
Director and Chief Financial Officer state in writing to the Board each 
reporting period that in their opinion:

■■

■■

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

 the Company’s risk management and internal compliance and 
control system is operating efficiently and effectively in all material 
respects.

The statements from the Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer 
are based on a formal sign-off framework established throughout the 
Company and reviewed by the Audit Committee as part of the financial 
reporting process.

PRINCIPLE 8 – REMUNERATE FAIRLY AND 
RESPONSIBLY

REMUNERATION COMMITTEE
The Remuneration Committee meets as required and on several 
occasions throughout the year. For membership and attendance details 
of the Remuneration Committee, refer to the Directors’ Report.

The composition of the Remuneration Committee is based on the 
following principles:

■■

■■

■■

 The Remuneration Committee should consist of non-executive 
directors only

 The Remuneration Committee should consist of a minimum of 
three members

 The Chairperson of the Remuneration Committee should be a non-
executive director.

The Remuneration Committee operates under a charter that details 
the Committee’s role and responsibilities, composition, structure and 
membership requirements. The charter is regularly reviewed to ensure 
it remains consistent with the Board’s objectives and responsibilities.

The main responsibilities of the Committee include:

■■

Review of the Company’s remuneration and incentive policies

■■

■■

 Review of executive and senior management remuneration 
packages

 Review of the Company’s recruitment, retention and termination 
policies and procedures

■■

Review of the Company’s superannuation arrangements 

■■

 Reporting to the Board on the Committee’s role and responsibilities 
covering all the functions in its charter.

38

DIRECTORS’ REPORT
AS AT 30 jUNE 2009

Your directors present their report 
on the consolidated entity of 
GWA International Limited and 
the entities it controlled (“the 
Company”) during the financial year 
ended 30 june 2009.

DIRECTORS
The following persons were directors of the Company during the 
financial year and up to the date of this report. Directors were in office 
this entire period unless otherwise stated.

B Thornton, Chairman and Non-Executive Director 
J J Kennedy, Deputy Chairman and Non-Executive Director 
P C Crowley, Managing Director 
D R Barry, Non-Executive Director 
R M Anderson, Non-Executive Director 
M D E Kriewaldt, Non-Executive Director (Retired 30 October 2008) 
G J McGrath, Non-Executive Director 
W J Bartlett, Non-Executive Director 
D D McDonough, Non-Executive Director (Appointed 16 February 2009) 
R J Thornton, Executive Director (Appointed 6 May 2009)

Details of the directors’ qualifications, experience and special 
responsibilities are located in the Annual Report.

Details of the directorships of other listed companies held by each 
director in the three years prior to the end of the 2008/09 financial year, 
and the period for which each directorship has been held, are listed in 
the Annual Report.

COMPANY SECRETARY
Mr R J Thornton was appointed Company Secretary of GWA 
International Limited in 2003. Mr Thornton continued in his role as 
Company Secretary following his appointment as an Executive Director 
on 6 May 2009. Details of Mr Thornton’s qualifications and experience 
are located in the Annual Report.

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS
The relevant interest of each director in the share capital of the 
Company as notified by the directors to the Australian Securities 
Exchange in accordance with Section 205G(1) of the Corporations Act 
2001 as at the date of this report is: 

Director

B Thornton

J J Kennedy

P C Crowley

D R Barry

R M Anderson

G J McGrath

W J Bartlett

D D McDonough

R J Thornton

Ordinary Shares

Nil

101,000

750,000

3,553,830

8,418,442

150,000

15,425

43,635

110,850

Mr P C Crowley and Mr R J Thornton are holders of Performance 
Rights under the Long Term Incentive (Equity) Plan. For details of the 
Performance Rights held, please refer to the Remuneration Report.

Note 33 to the Financial Statements sets out the number of shares held 
directly, indirectly or beneficially by directors or their related entities 
at balance date as prescribed in Accounting Standard AASB 124, this 
being 61,351,674 shares (last year 58,719,673 shares).

39

 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

CORPORATE STRUCTURE
GWA International Limited is a Company limited by shares that is 
incorporated and domiciled in Australia. GWA International Limited 
has prepared a Consolidated Financial Report incorporating the 
entities that it controlled during the financial year ended 30 June 
2009, which are outlined in Note 31 of the Financial Statements.

PRINCIPAL ACTIvITIES
The principal activities during the year within the consolidated entity 
were the research, design, manufacturing, importing and marketing 
of household consumer products as well as the distribution of these 
various products through a range of distribution channels in Australia 
and overseas.

There have been no significant changes in the nature of these 
activities during the year.

EMPLOYEES
The Company employed 1,891 employees as at 30 June 2009 (last 
year 1,786 employees).

The Company recognises the productivity benefits to be gained from 
investing in its employees to improve motivation and individual skills. 
The Company remains committed to ensuring that staff are provided 
access to appropriate training and development programs.

All companies in the consolidated entity are active equal opportunity 
employers.

SEGMENT PERFORMANCE
The segment performance of the Company for the financial year 
ended 30 June 2009 is as follows:

Business Segment  

Segment Revenue  

Trading EBIT

Building fixtures and fittings 

Commercial furniture 

Mowers 

Other 

Total 

Earnings Per Share 

Basic earnings per share 

Trading earnings per share  

2008/09 

$’000  

 2007/08  

$’000  

2008/09 

$’000 

2007/08 

$’000

 593,671 

 558,657 

 98,493 

 109,552

56,088 

28,585 

– 

  56,864 

  33,381 

2,033 

    3,369

   (931) 

       370

  – 

(12,640) 

 (13,897)

678,344 

648,902 

86,955 

99,394

2008/09 

2007/08 

cents 

16.9 

17.9 

cents

16.4

21.5

REvIEW OF OPERATIONS AND STATE 
OF AFFAIRS
A review of the operations of the Company and the results of those 
operations for the financial year ended 30 June 2009 is provided in 
the Managing Director’s Review of Operations which is located in the 
Annual Report.

In the opinion of the directors other than the decision to no longer 
classify the Wisa Beheer sanitaryware business as an asset held for 
sale, there were no significant changes in the state of affairs of the 
Company during the financial year, other than that referred to in the 
Financial Statements or notes thereto.

DIvIDENDS
Dividends paid or declared by the Company to shareholders since the 
end of the previous financial year were:

Dividends 

Cents per share 

Total Amount 

Franked 

Date of Payment 

$’000

Final 2007/08 Ordinary 

Interim 2008/09 Ordinary 

8.0 

9.5 

22,414 

Fully Franked 

7 October 2008

26,831 

Fully Franked 

1 April 2009

Franked dividends declared and paid during the year were franked at 
the corporate tax rate of 30%.

DECLARED AFTER END OF ThE 2008/09 
FINANCIAL YEAR
After the balance sheet date the following dividend was approved by 
the directors. The dividend has not been provided and there are no 
income tax consequences. 

40

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dividend 

Cents per share 

Total Amount 

Franked 

Date of Payment 

$’000

 Final 2008/09 Ordinary 

8.5 

25,332 

Fully Franked 

7 October 2009

The financial effect of the dividend has not been brought to account in 
the Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2009 and will be 
recognised in subsequent Financial Reports. 

The record date for the final dividend is 18 September 2009 and the 
dividend payment date is 7 October 2009. The Dividend Reinvestment 
Plan (DRP) will be offered to shareholders for the final dividend, and a 
discount of 3% will apply to shares subscribed for under the DRP. The 
record date for DRP participation is 18 September 2009.

SIGNIFICANT EvENTS AFTER BALANCE DATE
On 18 August 2009, the directors declared a final ordinary dividend 
of 8.5 cents per share in respect of the financial year ended 30 June 
2009. The dividend will be fully franked at the 30% corporate tax rate. 
The total amount of the dividend is $25.332 million (last year $22.414 
million). In accordance with Accounting Standards, the dividend has 
not been provided for in the Financial Statements for the year ended 
30 June 2009.

There has not been any other matter or circumstance, other than that 
referred to in the Financial Statements or notes thereto, that has arisen 
since the end of the financial year, that has significantly affected, or 
may significantly affect, the operations of the Company, the results of 
those operations, or the state of affairs of the Company.

LIkELY DEvELOPMENTS AND ExPECTED RESULTS
Likely developments and expected results of the operations of the 
Company are provided in the Managing Director’s Review of Operations 
which is located in the Annual Report.

In the next financial year, the Company will continue to pursue 
strategies for increasing the profitability and market share of the 
businesses. There will be further investment in research and new 
product development to ensure that the Company generates the best 
possible returns from the businesses.

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

ENvIRONMENTAL REGULATION AND 
PERFORMANCE

ENvIRONMENTAL LICENCES
The Company holds licences issued by environmental protection and 
water authorities that specify limits for discharges to the environment 
which arise from the operations of entities that it controls. These 
licences regulate the management of discharge to air, storm water run-
off, removal and transport of waste associated with the manufacturing 
operations in Australia. Where appropriate, an independent review of 
the Company’s compliance with licence conditions is made by external 
advisors.

The Company in conjunction with external advisors monitors storage 
and treatment of hazardous materials within particular operations. Prior 
to any discharge to sewers, effluent is treated and monitored to ensure 
strict observance with licence conditions.

The directors are not aware of any breaches of the Company’s licence 
conditions during the financial year ended 30 June 2009.

ENvIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION
In previous financial years, the Company investigated and reported 
two environmental contamination issues at factory sites at Eagle Farm, 
Queensland and Revesby, NSW. The Eagle Farm site is leased and 
occupied by Rover Mowers Limited and the Revesby site is leased and 
occupied by McIlwraith-Davey Pty Ltd. Both entities are wholly owned 
subsidiaries of the ultimate parent entity, GWA International Limited.

The costs to remediate the Eagle Farm site have been provided in the 
Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2009. Whilst there 
is currently no legal obligation to remediate the site, the Board has 
approved targeted remediation activities to mitigate potential future 
environmental liabilities. It is expected that these activities will be 
carried out during the year ending 30 June 2010. A Site Management 
Plan will be developed following remediation.

The costs to remediate the Revesby site have been provided in prior 
years. During the year, a Voluntary Remediation Proposal for the site 
was submitted to the Department of Environment and Climate Change 
(NSW) and it is expected that remediation activities will commence 
during the year ending 30 June 2010. A Site Management Plan will be 
developed following remediation.

INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE OF 
DIRECTORS AND ExECUTIvES

INDEMNIFICATION
The Company’s Constitution provides that, to the extent permitted 
by the law, every current (and former) director or secretary of the 
Company shall be indemnified out of the assets of the Company 
against all costs, expenses and liabilities which results directly or 
indirectly from facts or circumstances relating to the person serving 
(or having served) in their capacity as director or secretary of the 
Company, but excluding any liability arising out of conduct involving 
a lack of good faith or conduct known to the person to be wrongful or 
any liability to the Company or related body corporate.

INSURANCE PREMIUMS
The Company has paid premiums in respect of insurance contracts 
which provide cover against certain liabilities of every current (and 
former) director and officer of the Company and its controlled entities. 
The contracts of insurance prohibit disclosure of the total amount of 
the premiums paid, or the nature of the liabilities covered under 
the policies.

Premiums were paid in respect of every current (and former) director 
and officer of the Company and controlled entities, including the 
directors named in the Directors’ Report, the Chief Financial Officer 
and all persons concerned or taking part in the management of the 
Company and its controlled entities.

41

 
 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

REMUNERATION REPORT - AUDITED
This report outlines the remuneration arrangements in place for the 
directors and executives of the Company.

REMUNERATION OBjECTIvES
The performance of the Company depends upon the quality of 
its directors and executives. To maximise the performance of the 
Company’s businesses, the Company must attract, motivate and retain 
a highly skilled director and executive team. This is achieved through a 
remuneration and incentive framework which has been put in place by 
the Board, and is guided by the following objectives:

■■

■■

■■

■■

■■

 Provide fair and competitive rewards to attract high quality 
executives

 Linking of executive reward to improvement in Company 
performance

 Significant proportion of executive remuneration is “at risk”, 
dependent upon meeting pre-determined performance 
benchmarks

 The establishment of challenging and achievable performance 
hurdles in relation to variable executive remuneration

 An employee share plan which rewards performance and 
represents a long term financial commitment to employment with 
the Company.

REMUNERATION STRUCTURE
The remuneration structure for the non-executive directors is separate 
and distinct from the remuneration structure for the executives.

NON-ExECUTIvE DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION 
POLICY
The Nomination Committee is responsible for determining the 
remuneration arrangements for the non-executive directors, with 
the annual maximum aggregate amount approved by shareholders. 
At the 2004 Annual General Meeting, shareholders approved an 
annual maximum aggregate amount of $1 million (excluding statutory 
superannuation).

The non-executive directors are remunerated by way of directors’ 
fees only (including statutory superannuation) and are not able to 
participate in the Executive Incentive Scheme or the GWA International 
Employee Share Plan. An additional fee is also paid for each Board 
Committee on which a director sits. The payment of additional fees for 
serving on a Committee recognises the additional time commitment 
required by directors who serve on one or more Committees. 

In setting the level of non-executive directors fees and the manner in 
which it is to be apportioned amongst the directors, the Nomination 
Committee takes advice from external remuneration consultants to 
determine market remuneration levels, with the objective of ensuring 
that the levels are market based and fairly represent the responsibilities 
and time spent by the non-executive directors on Company matters.

Following the termination of the Directors’ Retirement Scheme in 2003, 
retirement benefits are not available for non-executive directors of the 
Company, other than statutory superannuation.

For details of the emoluments paid to the non-executive directors for 
the year ended 30 June 2009, refer to the Remuneration Tables.

ExECUTIvES’ REMUNERATION POLICY
The Remuneration Committee is responsible for determining and 
reviewing the remuneration arrangements for the executives. The 
Remuneration Committee takes advice from external remuneration 
consultants to ensure the appropriateness of the nature and amount 
of emoluments of such officers, with the overall objective of ensuring 
maximum stakeholder benefits from the retention of a high quality 
executive team.

The executives’ remuneration consists of the following key elements:

■■

Fixed Remuneration

■■

Variable Remuneration

  u    Short Term Incentive

  u    Long Term Incentive

■■

Employee Share Plan

The fixed remuneration component includes base salary, statutory 
superannuation and non-monetary benefits including medical benefits 
membership, salary continuance and life insurance and the provision 
of motor vehicles. The variable remuneration component includes a 
Short Term Incentive and Long Term Incentive under the Executive 
Incentive Scheme. Lower level management and senior staff may be 
invited to participate in the GWA International Employee Share Plan.

FIxED REMUNERATION
The level of fixed remuneration is set so as to provide a base level 
of remuneration which is both appropriate to the position and is 
competitive in the market. Fixed remuneration is reviewed annually 
by the Remuneration Committee based on advice from external 
remuneration consultants for determining market remuneration 
levels, as well as having regard to Company, divisional and individual 
performance.

The fixed remuneration of the five most highly remunerated executives 
and other key management personnel is detailed in the Remuneration 
Tables.

vARIABLE REMUNERATION
To assist in achieving the objective of retaining a high quality 
executive team, the Remuneration Committee links the nature and 
amount of the executive emoluments to the Company’s financial and 
operating performance. Executives have the opportunity to qualify for 
participation in the Executive Incentive Scheme. All performance plan 
payments are subject to maximum amounts. 

ExECUTIvE INCENTIvE SChEME
The Executive Incentive Scheme participants include the members 
of the divisional and corporate executive. Under the scheme, there 
are two incentives including a Short Term Incentive and Long Term 
Incentive. The objectives of the scheme are to maximise short term 
operating performance and longer term performance on an absolute 
basis, and compared to peer companies.

42

The Short Term Incentive for senior executives operates from divisional 
performance targets for divisional executives and group performance 
targets for corporate executives. Where the yearly targets are achieved, 
the Managing Director will receive an incentive payment in the 
range of 40% to 60% of fixed remuneration depending on the level 
of performance. Other senior executive participants will receive an 
incentive payment in the range of 30% to 40% of fixed remuneration 
depending on the level of performance. 

Short term incentive payments are subject to a cap such that two 
thirds of the incentive is designed to be reasonably achievable based 
on good business performance, with the balance rewarding high 
growth performance. The yearly targets are based on the achievement 
of personal goals and financial targets approved by the Remuneration 
Committee at the beginning of the financial year. The provision of 
incentives based on the achievement of personal goals reinforces the 
Company’s leadership model for improved business performance. 
The financial targets are based on profit growth which is aimed at 
improving performance consistent with shareholder wealth creation. 
Lower levels of incentives are also paid to key senior staff to reward 
personal performance.

The Long Term Incentive is provided as Performance Rights under the 
rules of the GWA International Long Term Incentive (Equity) Plan. The 
plan replaced the previous cash based Long Term Incentive and was 
approved by shareholders at the 2008 Annual General Meeting. Under 
the plan, the Board may offer Performance Rights to participants 

which entitle the holder to ordinary shares in the Company (or in 
limited cases cash payments made), subject to meeting financial 
performance hurdles and the holder remaining in employment with the 
Company until the nominated vesting date.

The performance hurdles are selected by the Remuneration 
Committee and are subject to financial performance conditions which 
measure Total Shareholder Returns (TSR) compared to a peer group 
of companies, and growth in Earnings Per Share (EPS). The EPS 
hurdle is calculated as statutory EPS adjusted at the discretion of the 
Board for significant or abnormal events. The performance hurdles are 
challenging and achievable and focus senior executives on sustained 
long term growth consistent with shareholder wealth creation. The plan 
runs over a three year performance period and the rights will only vest 
if the performance hurdles are achieved. If the vesting conditions and 
performance hurdles are achieved, ordinary shares will be issued to 
the participants at no cost. If the performance hurdles are not met, 
then the rights are cancelled after three years.

In accordance with the rules of the Long Term Incentive (Equity) Plan, 
the executives are prohibited from entering into hedging transactions 
or arrangements which reduce or limit the economic risk of holding 
unvested Performance Rights.

The Long Term Incentive is aligned to shareholder interests as 
Performance Rights only vest if the EPS and TSR performance hurdles 
are achieved over the three year performance period. The performance 
hurdles and vesting proportions for each measure are as follows:

EPS Growth over three year performance period

Proportion of Performance Rights that may be exercised if EPS 
growth hurdle is met

10% or more

50% (ie, 50% of total grant)

TSR of GWA International Limited relative to TSRs of 
Comparator Companies

Proportion of Performance Rights that may be Exercised if  
TSR hurdle is met

More than the 50th percentile

50% (ie, 50% of total grant)

Comparator companies

GUD Holdings Limited

Hills Industries Limited

Bradken Limited

Spotless Group Limited

Alesco Corporation Limited

Crane Group Limited

Pacific Brands Limited

Adelaide Brighton Limited

Ansell Limited

Paperlinx Limited

43

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

EMPLOYEE ShARE PLAN
As a further component of remuneration for lower level management 
and senior staff, the Company may invite employees to participate in 
the GWA International Employee Share Plan. This plan was previously 
available to executives, but following the recent review by the 
Remuneration Committee and introduction of the GWA International 
Long Term Incentive (Equity) Plan, it is now limited to lower level 
management and senior staff. Under the plan, employees are provided 
with a non-interest bearing loan from the Company to acquire shares in 
the Company at market value. The loan is repaid through dividends, or 
in full upon an employee ceasing employment with the Company. The 
employee bears the risk of share price movements below the issue price.

 In accordance with the rules of the plan, the total number of employee 
shares on issue may not exceed 5% of the total Company shares on 
issue. At 30 June 2009 there are currently 3.9 million shares issued 
under the GWA International Employee Share Plan, which have an 
outstanding loan balance of $9.96 million. The plan does not provide for 
the issue of options and no options have been issued by the Company.

The GWA International Employee Share Plan is an effective incentive 
in encouraging and rewarding sustained higher performance 
from management and senior staff who merit recognition of their 
performance and are integral to the future success of the Company. 
Participation in the plan represents a long term financial commitment 
to their employment with the Company.

ShAREhOLDER WEALTh
The below table is a summary of key shareholder wealth statistics for 
the Company over the last five years.

Trading EBIT has declined in the 2008/09 year due to the downturn 
in the domestic dwelling construction and renovation market following 
the global financial crisis in late 2008. This follows a number of years 
of weak domestic dwelling construction activity which is a key driver 
of earnings growth in the Company’s core building fixtures and fittings 
business. Despite the difficult market conditions, the core business has 
performed soundly over the last five years generating strong operating 
cash flows enabling the Company to maximise fully franked dividend 
payments to shareholders. The restructuring activities of recent years 
placed the Company in a strong position during the current downturn, 
and will underpin profitability growth as the market recovers.

The remuneration and incentive framework, which has been put 
in place by the Board has ensured that executives are focused on 
both maximising short term operating performance and long term 
strategic growth. This has contributed to the Company generating the 
shareholder returns as set out in the above table, including a total of 
$1.035 in fully franked dividends paid to shareholders in the last five 
financial years, which includes 13.5 cents in special dividends.

The Board will continue to review and monitor the remuneration and 
incentive framework to ensure that performance is fairly rewarded and 
encouraged, and to attract, motivate and retain a high quality 
executive team.

TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT
The specified executives in the Directors’ Report are on open-ended 
contracts, except for the Managing Director, Mr Peter Crowley, whose 
employment contract specifies an initial term of twelve months with 
subsequent rolling terms of twelve months.

The employment contract for Mr Crowley provides that if either the 
Company or Mr Crowley wishes to terminate employment for any 
reason, three months notice of termination is required, or payment in 
lieu, based upon current salary levels. On termination by the Company, 
Mr Crowley will be entitled to receive payment of twelve months salary.

For the other specified executives, the Company is legally required to 
give reasonable notice of termination, or payment in lieu, based upon 
current salary levels.

Performance Rights held by executives under the Long Term Incentive 
(Equity) Plan will lapse upon the cessation of employment with the 
Company.

Any loan to management and senior staff under the GWA International 
Employee Share Plan must be repaid in full upon the cessation of 
employment with the Company.

REMUNERATION TABLES - AUDITED

DIRECTORS’ AND ExECUTIvE OFFICERS’ 
REMUNERATION
Details of the nature and amount of each element of remuneration 
of each director of the Company, each of the five named Company 
executives and relevant consolidated entity executives who receive 
the highest remuneration and other key management personnel are 
outlined in the table on the following page.

Financial Year

Trading EBIT 
($m)

Trading EPS 
(cents)

Total DPS 
(cents)

Share Price 
($)

2004/05

2005/06

2006/07

2007/08

2008/09

103.4

95.2

98.8

99.4

87.0

23.0

21.6

22.0

21.5

17.9

22.5

21.5

22.0

19.5

18.0

2.92

3.11

4.42

2.50

2.30

44

 
 
Short–term

Salary  
& Fees

STI Cash 
Bonus

Non–
Monetary

Long–
term

Value of 
Share–
Based 
Awards

Post–employment

Super 
annuation 
Benefits

Termin– 
ation 
Benefits

$

$(a)*

$(b)

$(c)

$

Proportion of 
remuneration 
performance 
based

STI Cash 
Bonus 
vested in 
year

STI Cash 
Bonus 
forfeited 
in year

%

%

%

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
250

–
250

–
250

–
250

–
250

–
250

–
250

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

26,001
24,584

100,000
100,000

3,639
10,092

9,207
8,696

100,000
99,245

86,172
88,078

10,377
9,256

28,000
–

2009
2008

2009
2008

2009
2008

2009
2008

2009
2008

2009
2008

2009
2008

65,342
54,683

40,433
112,130

102,300
96,624

4,967
–

28,241
17,242

115,300
102,840

–
–

Non–Executive Directors
B Thornton, Chairman

2009
2008

288,899
273,150

J Kennedy, Deputy Chairman

M Kriewaldt  
(Retired 30 October 2008)

D Barry

R Anderson

G McGrath

W Bartlett

D McDonough

(Appointed 16 February 2009)

Executive Directors
P Crowley, Managing Director

R Thornton, Executive Director

(Appointed 6 May 2009)

Executives
S Wright,  
Group Operations Manager

2009
2008

1,379,601
1,164,718

112,500
–

240,918
206,927

194,658
–

50,000
100,000

2009
2008

39,160
–

4,167
–

9,526
–

3,199
–

3,767
–

1,977,677
1,471,645

59,819
–

15.5
–

12.3
–

(Ceased employment 18 July 2008)

2008

461,523

300,000

75,504

100,000

937,027

32.0

2009

28,634

–

26,603

100,000

500,000

655,237

–

–

–

A Rusten, Group Marketing 
Manager

2009

316,280

17,000

100,817

27,417

31,160

2008

300,224

–

96,397

–

29,680

T Dragicevich, Chief Executive
– Caroma Dorf

2009
2008

435,219
45,833

41,000
100,000

40,659
767

54,833
–

100,000
–

G Douglas, General Manager 
– Rover

2009
2008

182,943
184,743

–
33,965

45,286
34,337

21,933
–

100,000
100,000

J Measroch, General Manager 
– Sebel 
 (Ceased employment 31 Oct 2008)

2009

105,337

2008

271,092

-

-

18,994

44,567

-

-

26,663

9,333

210,000

343,664

G Oliver, General Manager 

–Gainsborough

2009
2008

295,097
255,676

147,000
76,920

44,888
43,236

30,158
-

101,112
99,768

W Saxelby, Chief Financial 
Officer

G Welsh, General Manager 
– Sebel 

2009

552,854

62,000

199,172

54,833

96,000

2008

223,245

200,000

32,222

-

77,619

2009

216,684

75,000

4,460

21,933

18,109

(Commenced employment 20 October 2008)

2008

-

-

-

-

-

L Patterson, General Manager 
– Dux

2009
2008

356,290
309,429

142,000
88,200

123,033
121,398

30,158
-

41,220
29,400

* Comparative STI cash bonus amounts have been adjusted to reflect the actual amounts paid.

336,186

28.8

-

692,701
548,427

-

24.9
16.1

Total 

$

314,900
297,984

165,342
154,933

44,072
122,472

111,507
105,570

104,967
99,495

114,413
105,570

125,677
112,346

28,000
–

492,674

426,301

671,711
146,600

350,162
353,045

342,322

618,255
475,600

964,859

533,086

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

9.0

–

14.3
68.2

6.3
9.6

-

-

28.7
16.2

12.1

37.5

$

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–

–
–

–
–

-

-
-

-

-

-

-

-
-

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

13
–

25
–

–

100

13

–

19
100

–
50

-

-

100
50

25

100

100

-

100
100

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

87
100

75
–

–

–

87

100

81
–

100
50

-

100

-
50

75

-

-

-

-
-

45

 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

(a)   The Short Term Incentive cash bonus is for the performance 
during the financial year ended 30 June 2009 based on the 
achievement of personal goals and specified performance criteria 
as set out earlier in the report. The STI cash bonuses are paid 
annually following the end of the preceding financial year. The 
amounts have been determined following individual performance 
reviews and have been approved by the Remuneration Committee.

(b)   The non-monetary benefits include the provision of other benefits 
such as motor vehicles, medical benefits membership, salary 
continuance and life insurance, interest free loans under the 
GWA International Employee Share Plan and any applicable fringe 
benefits tax thereon.

(c)   The Long Term Incentive (Equity) Plan was approved by 

shareholders at the 2008 Annual General Meeting and runs for a 
three year performance period. If the performance hurdles are 

achieved the performance rights will vest on the date of the release 
of the Company’s audited financial results for the year ending 30 
June 2011 to the Australian Securities Exchange. The fair value of 
the performance rights granted during the year ended 30 June 2009 
is calculated using Binomial option pricing model (EPS hurdle) and 
Monte Carlo simulation (TSR hurdle) valuation methodologies and 
allocated to each financial year evenly over the three year 
performance period. 

PERFORMANCE RIGhTS OvER ORDINARY ShARES 
GRANTED AS COMPENSATION
Details of Performance Rights over ordinary shares in the Company 
that were granted as compensation to each key management person 
under the Long Term Incentive (Equity) Plan during the year are 
as follows:

Executive Directors

P Crowley, Managing Director

355,000

27 February 2009

583,975

Number of rights granted

Grant date*

Fair value of rights at grant date 
$*

R Thornton, Executive Director (Appointed 6 May 2009)

35,000

27 February 2009

57,575

Executives

S Wright, Group Operations Manager 

(Ceased employment 18 July 2008)

–

–

–

A Rusten, Group Marketing Manager

50,000

27 February 2009

82,250

T Dragicevich, Chief Executive – Caroma Dorf 

100,000

27 February 2009

164,500

G Douglas, General Manager – Rover

40,000

27 February 2009

65,800

J Measroch, General Manager – Sebel  

(Ceased employment 31 October 2008)

–

–

–

G Oliver, General Manager –Gainsborough

55,000

27 February 2009

90,475

W Saxelby, Chief Financial Officer

100,000

27 February 2009

164,500

G Welsh, General Manager – Sebel  

(Commenced employment 20 October 2008)

40,000

27 February 2009

65,800

L Patterson, General Manager – Dux

55,000

27 February 2009

90,475

All of the above rights carry an exercise price of nil and vest on the 
date of the release of the Company’s audited financial results for the 
year ending 30 June 2011 to the Australian Securities Exchange, 
subject to the achievement of the performance hurdles set out earlier 
in this report. No rights were forfeited, vested or exercised during the 
year. The number of rights granted during the year also represents the 
balance yet to vest at 30 June 2009.

*   The issue price used to determine the number of rights offered to all participants 

during the year, including Mr Crowley and other key management personnel, 

was $2.46 being the volume weighted average price of the Company’s shares 

calculated over the 20 trading days after the Company’s Annual General Meeting 

on 30 October 2008. The grant dates and corresponding fair values per right in 

the above table have been determined in accordance with Australian Accounting 

Standards and are dependent on the dates on which the individual executives 

are deemed to have received their offers to participate in the plan. Fair values 

have been calculated using Binomial option pricing model (EPS hurdle) and 

Monte Carlo simulation (TSR hurdle) valuation methodologies. The fair value of 

rights issued during the year under the EPS hurdle was $1.78 per right, and the 

TSR hurdle was $1.51 per right.

46

 
DIRECTORS’ MEETINGS
The number of meetings of directors (including meetings of 
Committees of directors) held during the financial year ended 30 June 
2009 and the number of meetings attended by each director were 
as follows:

Director

    Board     

Audit Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Nomination Committee

B Thornton

J J Kennedy

P C Crowley (1)

D R Barry

R M Anderson

M D E Kriewaldt (4)

G J McGrath (2)

W J Bartlett (3)

D D McDonough (6)

R J Thornton (5)

A

13

13

13

13

13

5

13

13

5

2

B

13

13

13

13

12

5

12

13

5

2

A

4

4

1

4

B

4

4

1

4

A

3

1

3

2

B

3

1

3

2

A

2

2

2

B

2

2

2

Note: 
A – Number of meetings held during the time the director held office 
during the year B – Number of meetings attended 

(1)  P C Crowley attends Committee meetings by invitation of the Board

(2)   G J McGrath was appointed a member of the Nomination 

Committee on 30 October 2008

(3)   W J Bartlett was appointed a member of the Remuneration 

Committee on 30 October 2008

(4)   M D E Kriewaldt retired as a non-executive director on 

30 October 2008

(5)  R J Thornton was appointed an executive director on 6 May 2009

(6)   D D McDonough was appointed a non-executive director on  

16 February 2009 and a member of the Nomination Committee  
on 3 March 2009

As at the date of this report, the Company had an Audit Committee, 
Remuneration Committee and Nomination Committee of the Board 
of Directors. The charter for each Committee outlines its role and 
responsibilities, a summary of which is provided in the Corporate 
Governance Statement in the Annual Report.

The members of the Audit Committee are:

■■

■■

■■

Mr J Kennedy (Chairman)

Mr B Thornton 

Mr W Bartlett 

The members of the Remuneration Committee are:

■■

■■

■■

Mr G McGrath (Chairman)

Mr D Barry

Mr W Bartlett 

The members of the Nomination Committee are:

■■

■■

■■

Mr B Thornton (Chairman)

Dr D McDonough

Mr G McGrath

Details of the Committee members qualifications and experience are 
located in the Annual Report.

NON-AUDIT SERvICES

Details of the non-audit services provided by the Company’s External 
Auditor, KPMG, during the financial year ended 30 June 2009 are 
outlined in Note 6 of the Financial Statements. Based on advice from 
the Company’s Audit Committee, the directors are satisfied that the 
provision of non-audit services is compatible with the general standard 
of independence for auditors imposed by the Corporations Act 2001. 
The nature and scope of each type of non-audit service provided 
means that auditor independence was not compromised.

LEAD AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION

The Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration is set out in the Annual 
Report and forms part of the Directors’ Report for the financial year 
ended 30 June 2009.

ROUNDING

The Company is of a kind referred to in Class Order 98/100 issued 
by the Australian Securities Investment Commission relating to the 
rounding of amounts in the Directors’ Report.

Amounts in the Directors’ Report have been rounded off in accordance with 
that Class Order to the nearest thousand dollars, unless otherwise stated.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors.

B Thornton 
Chairman 
Brisbane, 18 August 2009

P C Crowley 
Managing Director 

47

 
GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED    2009 ANNUAL REPORT

CONTENTS

48

Income Statements  

Statements of Recognised Income and Expense  

Balance Sheets  

Statements of Cash Flows  

Note

1   Significant accounting policies  

2   Segment reporting 

3   Other income  

4   Other expenses   

5   Personnel expenses  

6   Auditors’ remuneration  

7  Net financing costs 

8   Restructuring and impairment expenses 

9  

Income tax expense 

10   Earnings per share  

11   Cash and cash equivalents  

12   Trade and other receivables 

13   Inventories 

14  Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale 

15   Acquisitions of subsidiaries  

16   Current tax assets and liabilities 

17   Deferred tax assets and liabilities  

18   Property, plant and equipment  

19   Intangible assets 

20   Trade and other payables 

21   Interest-bearing loans and borrowings  

22   Employee benefits 

23  Share-based payments  

24   Provisions 

25   Capital and reserves 

26   Financial instruments and financial risk management   

27   Operating leases 

28   Capital and other commitments 

29   Contingencies  

30   Deed of cross guarantee  

31   Consolidated entities  

32   Reconciliation of cash flows from operating activities 

33   Related parties 

34   Subsequent events 

Directors’ Declaration  

Independent Auditor’s Report to the members of  
GWA International Limited  

49

50

51

52

53

61

63

63

63

64

64

64

65

66

67

67

67

68

68

69

69

71

73

74

75

76

77

78

79

81

90

91

91

92

94

95

96

99

100

101 

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

income statements
income statements

For the year ended 30 June 2009 

consolidated 

the company

In thousands of AUD 

Note 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

Sales revenue 

Cost of sales 

Gross profit 

Other income 

Selling expenses 

Administrative expenses 

Other expenses 

Results from operating activities 

Finance income 

Finance expenses 

Net financing costs 

Profit before tax 

Income tax (expense)/benefit 

Profit for the year 

2 

678,344 

648,902 

(448,815) 

(416,043) 

229,529 

232,859 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

3 

4,338 

11,333 

40,000 

65,000

(97,550) 

(93,981) 

– 

–

(47,916) 

(42,805) 

(1,465) 

(745)

(5,542) 

(24,828) 

– 

(2,359)

82,859 

82,578 

38,535 

61,896

2,866 

5,068 

(16,710) 

(19,691) 

(13,844) 

(14,623) 

797 

– 

797 

745

–

745

4 

7 

7 

69,015 

67,955 

39,332 

62,641

9 

(20,690) 

(22,065) 

3 

–

48,325 

45,890 

39,335 

62,641

Basic and diluted earnings per share (cents per share) 

Dividends per share: 
Ordinary shares (cents per share) 

10 

25 

16.9 

16.4

17.5 

22.0

The income statements are to be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements set out on pages 53 to 99.

49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

statements oF recoGnised 
income and eXpense

For the year ended 30 June 2009 

consolidated 

the company

In thousands of AUD 

Foreign exchange translation differences for foreign operations 

Note 

2009 

4,026 

(5,012) 

2008 

2009 

2008

Cash flow hedges: 

Gains/(losses) taken to equity, net of tax 

Net income recognised directly in equity 

(755) 

176 

3,271 

(4,836) 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

Profit for the year 

48,325 

45,890 

39,335 

62,641

Total recognised income and expense for the year 

25 

51,596 

41,054 

39,335 

62,641

Other movements in equity arising from transactions with owners as owners are set out in note 25.

The statements of recognised income and expense are to be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements set out on  
pages 53 to 99.

50

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

Balance sheets

For the year ended 30 June 2009 

consolidated 

the company

In thousands of AUD 

Assets 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Trade and other receivables 

Inventories 

Income tax receivable 

Other  

Total current assets 

Receivables 

Deferred tax assets 

Investment in subsidiaries 

Property, plant and equipment 

Intangible assets 

Other  

Total non–current assets 

Total assets 

Liabilities 

Trade and other payables 

Employee benefits 

Income tax payable 

Provisions 

Total current liabilities 

Trade and other payables 

Interest–bearing loans and borrowings 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Employee benefits 

Provisions 

Total non–current liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Equity 

Issued capital 

Reserves 

Retained earnings 

Total equity 

Note 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

11 

12 

13 

16 

12 

17 

31 

18 

19 

20 

22 

16 

24 

20 

21 

17 

22 

24 

45,015 

53,418 

135,039 

131,580 

111,671 

107,508 

980 

3,694 

829 

4,832 

– 

661 

– 

– 

–

644

–

–

562 

814

296,399 

298,167 

1,223 

1,458

12,185 

22,961 

– 

5,298 

703,666 

663,132

22,845 

– 

–

– 

325,646 

325,646

98,569 

106,307 

349,438 

339,060 

– 

– 

–

–

2,901 

3,777 

2,879 

3,699

486,054 

477,287 

1,032,191 

992,477

782,453 

775,454 

1,033,414 

993,935

89,231 

14,191 

7,207 

81,292 

16,599 

5,890 

57 

– 

54

–

7,123 

5,854

19,853 

17,091 

– 

–

130,482 

120,872 

7,180 

5,908

5,585 

– 

597,077 

583,653

200,000 

246,975 

22 

– 

11,337 

10,675 

8,863 

7,812 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

225,807 

265,462 

597,077 

583,653

356,289 

386,334 

604,257 

589,561

426,164 

389,120 

429,157 

404,374

387,981 

353,938 

387,981 

353,938

(3,451) 

(7,372) 

650 

–

41,634 

42,554 

40,526 

50,436

25 

426,164 

389,120 

429,157 

404,374

The balance sheets are to be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements set out on pages 53 to 99.

51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

statements oF cash FloWs

For the year ended 30 June 2009 

consolidated 

the company

In thousands of AUD 

Cash flows from operating activities 

Cash receipts from customers 

Dividends and trust distributions received 

Cash paid to suppliers and employees 

Cash generated from operations 

Interest paid 

Interest received 

Income taxes paid 

Note 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

738,652 

726,256 

– 

–

– 

– 

40,000 

62,641

(628,092) 

(594,781) 

(8) 

–

110,560 

131,475 

39,992 

62,641

(14,852) 

(18,527) 

2,070 

4,323 

– 

– 

–

–

(19,150) 

(14,279) 

(18,559) 

(12,505)

Net cash from operating activities 

32 

78,628 

102,992 

21,433 

50,136

Cash flows from investing activities 

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 

Acquisition of property, plant and equipment 

Acquisition of intangibles 

6,395 

14,492 

(10,514) 

(18,305) 

(6,834) 

(3,930) 

Acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired 

15 

(12,419) 

– 

Net cash from investing activities 

(23,372) 

(7,743) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

Cash flows from financing activities 

Issue of employee shares 

Proceeds from issue of share capital 

Repayment of employee share loans 

Repayment of loans by controlled entities 

Repayment of loans by related parties 

Repayment of bank bills 

Dividends paid 

Net cash from financing activities 

(841) 

(2,107) 

(841) 

(2,107)

34,043 

876 

34,043 

876

1,321 

1,270 

1,321 

1,270

– 

8 

– 

81 

(48,167) 

(25,000) 

(6,711) 

11,205

– 

– 

–

–

(49,245) 

(61,612) 

(49,245) 

(61,612)

(62,881) 

(86,492) 

(21,433) 

(50,368)

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 July 

Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash held 

(7,625) 

8,757 

53,418 

45,953 

(778) 

(1,292) 

Cash and cash equivalents at 30 June 

11 

45,015 

53,418 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(232)

232

–

–

The statements of cash flows are to be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements set out on pages 53 to 99.

52

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

1.siGniFicant accountinG policies

GWA International Limited (the ‘Company’) is a company domiciled 

in Australia. The consolidated financial report of the Company for the 

financial year ended 30 June 2009 comprises the Company and its 

subsidiaries (together referred to as the ‘consolidated entity’).

The financial report was authorised for issue by the directors on 18 

August 2009.

(a)  Statement of compliance

The financial report is a general purpose financial report which has 

been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards 

(‘AASBs’) (including Australian Interpretations) adopted by the Australian 

Accounting Standards Board (‘AASB’) and the Corporations Act 2001. 

The consolidated entity’s financial report and the financial report of 

the Company comply with International Financial Reporting Standards 

In particular, information about significant areas of estimation uncertainty 
and critical judgements in applying accounting policies that have 
the most significant effect on the amount recognised in the financial 
statements are described in the following notes:

■■

 note 19 – measurement of the recoverable amounts of  
intangible assets

■■

note 23 – fair value of share–based payments

■■

note 24 and 29 – provisions and contingencies

■■

note 26 – valuation of financial instruments

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all 
periods presented in the consolidated financial report. The accounting policies 
have been applied consistently by all entities in the consolidated entity.

(c) Basis of consolidation

(‘IFRSs’) and interpretations adopted by the International Accounting 

(i)  Subsidiaries

Standards Board (‘IASB’).

(b)  Basis of preparation

The financial report is presented in Australian dollars which is the 

Company’s functional currency and the functional currency of the 

majority of the consolidated entity. The entity has elected not to early 

adopt any accounting standards or amendments.

The financial report is prepared on the historical cost basis except that 

derivative financial instruments are measured at their fair value.

The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Class Order 98/100 dated 

10 July 1998 and in accordance with that Class Order, amounts in the 
financial report and Directors’ Report have been rounded off to the 

nearest thousand dollars, unless otherwise stated.

The preparation of a financial report requires management to make 

judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application 

of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, 

income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are 

based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed 

to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form 

the basis of making the judgements about carrying values of assets and 

liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results 

may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing 

basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in 

which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in 

the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both 

current and future periods.

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Company. Control exists 
when the Company has the power, directly or indirectly, to govern the 
financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from 
its activities. In assessing control, potential voting rights that presently 
are exercisable or convertible are taken into account. The financial 
statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial 
statements from the date that control commences until the date that 
control ceases.

Investments in subsidiaries are carried at their cost of acquisition in the 
Company’s financial statements.

(ii)  Transactions eliminated on consolidation

Intragroup balances and any unrealised gains and losses or income 
and expenses arising from intragroup transactions, are eliminated in 
preparing the consolidated financial statements.

(d)  Foreign currency

(i)   Foreign currency transactions

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the foreign exchange 
rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies at the reporting date are retranslated 
to Australian dollars at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that date. 
Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the 
income statement. 

Non–monetary assets and liabilities that are measured in terms of 
historical cost in a foreign currency are retranslated to Australian dollars 
using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non–monetary 
assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that are stated 
at fair value are translated to Australian dollars at foreign exchange rates 

ruling at the dates the fair value was determined.

53

GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

1. siGniFicant accountinG policies (continued)

(f)  Hedging

(d)  Foreign currency (continued)

(ii)  Financial statements of foreign operations

On entering into a hedging relationship, the consolidated entity 

formally designates and documents the hedge relationship and the risk 

management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. The 

The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and 

documentation includes identification of the hedging instrument, the 

fair value adjustments arising on acquisition, are translated to Australian 

hedged item or transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and how 

dollars at foreign exchange rates ruling at the reporting date. The 

the entity will assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness in offsetting 

revenues and expenses of foreign operations are translated to Australian 

the exposure to changes in the hedged item’s fair value or cash flows 

dollars at rates approximating to the foreign exchange rates ruling at 

attributable to the hedged risk. Such hedges are expected to be highly or 

the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange differences arising on 

fully effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows 

retranslation are recognised directly in the foreign currency translation 

and are assessed on an ongoing basis to determine that they actually 

reserve (FCTR).

have been highly effective throughout the financial reporting periods for 

(iii)  Net investment in foreign operations

Foreign exchange differences arising from the retranslation of the net 

which they are designated.

(i)  Cash flow hedges

investment in foreign operations, and of related hedges are recognised in 

Where a derivative financial instrument is designated as a hedge of 

the FCTR to the extent that the hedge is effective. They are released into 

the variability in cash flows of a recognised asset or liability, or a highly 

the income statement upon disposal.

(e)  Derivative financial instruments

probable forecasted transaction, the effective part of any gain or loss on 

the derivative financial instrument is recognised directly in equity. When 

the forecasted transaction subsequently results in the recognition of a 

The consolidated entity uses derivative financial instruments to hedge 

non–financial asset or non–financial liability, or the forecast transaction 

its exposure to foreign exchange and interest rate risks arising from 

for a non–financial asset or non–financial liability becomes a firm 

operating, financing and investing activities. In accordance with its 

commitment for which fair value hedge accounting is applied, the 

treasury policy, the consolidated entity does not hold or issue derivative 

associated cumulative gain or loss is removed from equity and included 

financial instruments for trading purposes.

Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value. 

Subsequent to initial recognition, derivative financial instruments are 

stated at fair value. The gain or loss on remeasurement to fair value 
is recognised in profit or loss, unless the derivative qualifies for hedge 

accounting, in which case the recognition of any resultant gain or loss 

in the initial cost or other carrying amount of the non–financial asset or 

liability. If a hedge of a forecasted transaction subsequently results in 

the recognition of a financial asset or a financial liability, the associated 

gains and losses that were recognised directly in equity are reclassified 

into profit or loss in the same period or periods during which the asset 

acquired or liability assumed affects profit or loss. 

depends on the nature of the item being hedged (see accounting 

For cash flow hedges, other than those described above, the associated 

policy (f)).

The fair value of interest rate swaps is the estimated amount that the 

consolidated entity would receive or pay to terminate the swap at the 

reporting date, taking into account current interest rates and the current 

cumulative gain or loss is removed from equity and recognised in the 

income statement in the same period or periods during which the 

hedged forecast transaction affects profit or loss. The ineffective part of 

any gain or loss is recognised immediately in the income statement.

creditworthiness of the swap counterparties. The fair value of forward 

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, or 

exchange contracts is their quoted market price at the reporting date, 

the entity revokes designation of the hedge relationship, but the hedged 

being the present value of the quoted forward price.

forecast transaction is still expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss 

at that point remains in equity and is recognised in accordance with the 

above policy when the transaction occurs. If the hedged transaction is 

no longer expected to take place, the cumulative unrealised gain or loss 

recognised in equity is recognised immediately in the income statement.

54

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

1. siGniFicant accountinG policies (continued) 

(ii)  Depreciation

(f)  Hedging (continued)

(ii)  Hedge of monetary assets and liabilities

With the exception of freehold land, depreciation is charged to the 

income statement on a straight–line basis over the estimated useful lives 

of each part of an item of property, plant and equipment. Land is not 

Where a derivative financial instrument is used to hedge economically 

depreciated. The estimated useful lives in the current and comparative 

the foreign exchange exposure of a recognised monetary asset or liability, 

periods are as follows:

no hedge accounting is applied and any gain or loss on the hedging 

instrument is recognised in the income statement.

(iii)  Hedge of net investment in foreign operation 

The portion of the gain or loss on an instrument used to hedge a net 

investment in a foreign operation that is determined to be an effective 

hedge is recognised directly in equity. The ineffective portion is 

recognised immediately in the income statement.

(g)  Property, plant and equipment

Items of property, plant and equipment are measured at cost less 

accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Cost includes 

expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. 

The cost of self–constructed assets includes the cost of materials, direct 

■■

buildings 

40 years

■■

plant and equipment 

3–11 years

■■

fixtures and fittings 

7–15 years

The residual value, the useful life and the depreciation method applied 
to an asset are reassessed annually.

(h)  Intangible assets

(i)  Research and development

Expenditure on research activities, undertaken with the prospect of 

gaining new scientific or technical knowledge and understanding, is 

recognised in the income statement as an expense as incurred.

labour, the initial estimate, where relevant, of the costs of dismantling 

Expenditure on development activities, whereby research findings are 

and removing the items and restoring the site on which they are located, 

applied to a plan or design for the production of new or substantially 

and an appropriate proportion of production overheads. Purchased 

improved products and processes, is capitalised only if the product or 

software that is integral to the functionality of the related equipment is 

process is technically and commercially feasible and the consolidated 

capitalised as part of that equipment.

Where parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different 

useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant 

and equipment.

entity has sufficient resources to complete development. Capitalised 

development expenditure is measured at cost less accumulated 

amortisation and impairment losses.

(ii)  Brand names

Gains and losses on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment 

Expenditure incurred in developing, maintaining or enhancing brand 

are determined by comparing proceeds from disposal with the carrying 

names is written off against profit from ordinary activities in the year 

amount of property, plant and equipment and are recognised net within 

in which it is incurred. The brand names are not amortised as the 

“other income” or “other expenses” in the income statement.

(i)  Subsequent costs

The consolidated entity recognises in the carrying amount of an item 

of property, plant and equipment the cost of replacing part of such an 

directors believe that the brand names have an indefinite useful life. The 

carrying value of brand names is reviewed each year to ensure that no 

impairment exists.

(iii)  Goodwill

item when that cost is incurred if it is probable that the future economic 

Goodwill acquired in business combinations of the consolidated entity 

benefits embodied within the item will flow to the consolidated entity and 

are measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill 

the cost of the item can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of 

represents the excess of the cost of the acquisition over the consolidated 

the replaced part is derecognised. All other costs are recognised in the 

entity’s interest in the net fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities 

income statement as an expense as incurred.

and contingent liabilities of the acquired business.

55

GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

1. siGniFicant accountinG policies (continued)

(k)  Cash and cash equivalents

(h)  Intangible assets (continued)

(iv)  Other intangible assets

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits with 

an original maturity date of three months or less. Bank overdrafts that 

are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the consolidated 

Other intangible assets that are acquired by the consolidated entity are 

entity’s cash management are included as a component of cash and cash 

measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses.

equivalents for the purpose of the statement of cash flows.

(v)  Subsequent expenditure

(l)  Impairment

Subsequent expenditure on capitalised intangible assets is capitalised 

The carrying amounts of the consolidated entity’s assets, other than 

only when it increases the future economic benefits embodied in the 

inventories and deferred tax assets, are reviewed at each balance sheet 

specific asset to which it relates. All other expenditure is expensed as 

date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any 

incurred.

(vi)  Amortisation

Amortisation is charged to the income statement on a straight–line 

such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated.

For intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life, the recoverable 

amount is estimated at each balance sheet date.

basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets unless such 

An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of 

lives are indefinite. Intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are 

an asset or its cash–generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount. 

systematically tested for impairment at each balance sheet date. Other 

Impairment losses are recognised in the income statement, unless an 

intangible assets are amortised from the date they are available for use. 

asset has previously been revalued, in which case the impairment loss 

The estimated useful lives in the current and comparative periods are 

is recognised as a reversal to the extent of that previous revaluation with 

as follows:

■■

designs 

■■

patents 

 15 years

 3–19 years 

(based on patent term)

■■

trade names 

 10 years

any excess recognised through profit or loss.

Impairment losses recognised in respect of cash–generating units are 

allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to 

cash–generating units (group of units) and then, to reduce the carrying 

amount of the other assets in the unit (group of units) on a pro rata basis.

■■

capitalised software development costs   5 years

(i)  Calculation of recoverable amount

(i)  Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables are initially measured at fair value and 

subsequently at their amortised cost less impairment losses.

(j)  Inventories

The recoverable amount of the consolidated entity’s receivables carried at 
amortised cost is calculated as the present value of estimated future cash 

flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate (i.e. the effective 

interest rate computed at initial recognition of these financial assets). 

Receivables with a short duration are not discounted.

Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. 

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course 

of business, less the estimated costs of completion and selling expenses.

The cost of inventories is based on the first–in first–out principle and 

includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories, production 

or conversion costs and other costs incurred in bringing them to their 

existing location and condition. In the case of manufactured inventories 

and work in progress, cost includes an appropriate share of production 

overheads based on normal operating capacity.

Impairment of receivables is not recognised until objective evidence 

is available that a loss event has occurred. Significant receivables are 

individually assessed for impairment. Impairment testing of significant 

receivables that are not assessed as impaired individually is performed 

by placing them into portfolios of significant receivables with similar 

risk profiles and undertaking a collective assessment of impairment. 

Non–significant receivables are not individually assessed. Instead, 

impairment testing is performed by placing non–significant receivables 

in portfolios of similar risk profiles, based on objective evidence from 

historical experience adjusted for any effects of conditions existing at 

each balance sheet date.

56

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

1. siGniFicant accountinG policies (continued) 

(o)  Employee benefits

(l)  Impairment (continued)

(i)  Defined contribution superannuation funds

(i)  Calculation of recoverable amount (continued)

The recoverable amount of other assets is the greater of their fair value 

less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated 

future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre–tax 

discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value 

of money and the risks specific to the asset. For an asset that does not 

A defined contribution superannuation fund is a post–employment 

benefit plan under which an entity pays fixed contributions into a 

separate entity and will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay 

further amounts. Obligations for contributions to defined contribution 

superannuation funds are recognised as an expense in the income 

statement as incurred.

generate largely independent cash inflows, the recoverable amount is 

(ii)  Other long–term employee benefits

determined for the cash–generating unit to which the asset belongs.

(ii)  Reversals of impairment

Impairment losses are reversed when there is an indication that the 

impairment loss may no longer exist and there has been a change in 

the estimate used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment 

loss in respect of a receivable carried at amortised cost is reversed if the 

The consolidated entity’s net obligation in respect of long–term employee 

benefits is the amount of future benefit that employees have earned in 

return for their service in the current and prior periods. The obligation 

is calculated using expected future increases in wage and salary rates 

including related on–costs and expected settlement dates, and is 

discounted to present value.

subsequent increase in recoverable amount can be related objectively to 

(iii)  Short–term benefits

an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised.

Liabilities for employee benefits for wages, salaries, annual leave and sick 

An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying 

leave that are expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting 

amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been 

date represent present obligations resulting from employees’ services 

determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had 

provided to reporting date, are calculated at undiscounted amounts 

been recognised. An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed.

based on remuneration wage and salary rates that the consolidated entity 

(m)  Share capital

(i)   Dividends

Dividends are recognised as a liability in the period in which they are 

declared.

(ii)   Transaction costs

Transaction costs of an equity transaction are accounted for as a 

deduction from equity, net of any related income tax benefit.

(n)   Interest–bearing borrowings

Interest–bearing borrowings are recognised initially at fair value less 

attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, interest–

expects to pay as at reporting date including related on–costs, such as 

workers compensation insurance and payroll tax. Non–accumulating 

non–monetary benefits, such as medical care, housing, cars and free or 

subsidised goods and services, are expensed based on the net marginal 

cost to the consolidated entity as the benefits are taken by the employees.

(iv)  Share–based payment transactions

The grant date fair value of performance rights granted to employees 

is recognised as a personnel expense, with a corresponding increase 

in equity, over the specified period that the performance rights vest to 

employees. The amount recognised as an expense is adjusted to reflect 

the actual number of performance rights for which the related service 

and non–market vesting hurdles are met.

bearing borrowings are measured at amortised cost with any difference 

(p)  Provisions

between cost and redemption value being recognised in the income 

statement over the period of the borrowings on an effective interest basis.

A provision is recognised in the balance sheet when the consolidated 

entity has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past 

event that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of 

economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are 

determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre–tax 

rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money 

and, where appropriate, the risks specific to the liability.

57

GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

1. siGniFicant accountinG policies (continued) 

(ii)  Net financing costs

(p)  Provisions (continued)

(i)   Warranties  

Net financing costs comprise interest payable on borrowings calculated 

using the effective interest method, interest receivable on funds invested 

and gains and losses on hedging instruments that are recognised in 

A provision for warranties is recognised when the underlying products or 

the income statement. Borrowing costs are expensed as incurred and 

services are sold. The provision is based on historical warranty data and 

included in net financing costs. Interest income is recognised in the 

a weighting of all possible outcomes against their associated probabilities.

income statement as it accrues, using the effective interest method.

(ii)   Restructuring

(t)  Income tax

A provision for restructuring is recognised when the consolidated 

Income tax expense on the profit or loss for the year comprises current 

entity has approved a detailed and formal restructuring plan, and the 

and deferred tax. Income tax expense is recognised in the income 

restructuring has either commenced or has been announced publicly. 

statement except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly 

Future operating costs are not provided for.

in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity.

(iii)  Site restoration

A provision for restoration in respect of leased premises is recognised 

when the obligation to restore arises. The provision is the best estimate 

Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the 

year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting 

date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

of the present value of the expenditure required to settle the restoration 

Deferred tax is recognised using the balance sheet liability method, 

obligation at the reporting date. Future restoration obligations are 

providing for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of 

reviewed annually and any changes are reflected in the present value 

assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts 

of the provision at the end of the reporting period. The unwinding of the 
effect of discounting on the provision is recognised as a finance cost.

(q)  Trade and other payables

used for taxation purposes. The following temporary differences are 

not provided for: the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that 

affect neither accounting nor taxable profit and differences relating 

to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not 

Trade and other payables are initially measured at fair value and 

reverse in the foreseeable future. The amount of deferred tax provided is 

subsequently at their amortised cost.

(r)   Revenue

Goods sold

Revenue from the sale of goods is measured at the fair value of the 

consideration received or receivable, net of returns, discounts and 

rebates. Revenue is recognised in the income statement when the 

based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying 

amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively 

enacted at the reporting date.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally 

enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets and they relate 

to income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the same taxable 

entity, or on different tax entities, but they intend to settle current tax 

significant risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred to the 

liabilities and assets on a net basis or their tax assets and liabilities will be 

buyer, recovery of the consideration is probable, the associated costs and 

realised simultaneously.

A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable 

that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be 

utilised. Deferred tax assets are reduced to the extent that it is no longer 

probable that the related tax benefit will be realised.

possible return of goods can be estimated reliably, there is no continuing 

management involvement with the goods and the amount of revenue can 

be measured reliably.

(s)  Expenses

(i)   Operating lease payments

Payments made under operating leases are recognised in the income 

statement on a straight–line basis over the term of the lease. Lease 

incentives received are recognised in the income statement as an integral 

part of the total lease expense and spread over the lease term.

58

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

1. siGniFicant accountinG policies (continued) 

Receivables and payables are stated with the amount of GST included. 

(t)  Income tax (continued)

Tax consolidation

The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO is 

included as a current asset or liability in the balance sheet.

Cash flows are included in the statement of cash flows on a gross basis. 

The Company and its wholly–owned Australian resident entities have 

The GST components of cash flows arising from investing and financing 

formed a tax–consolidated group with effect from 1 July 2003 and are 

activities which are recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO are 

therefore taxed as a single entity from that date. The head entity within 

classified as operating cash flows.

the tax–consolidated group is GWA International Limited. Current tax 

expense/income, deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets arising 

(w)  Earnings per share

from temporary differences of the members of the tax–consolidated 

The consolidated entity presents basic and diluted earnings per share 

group are recognised in the separate financial statements of the 

(EPS) data for its ordinary shares. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing 

members of the tax–consolidated group using the ‘separate taxpayer 

the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Company 

within group’ approach by reference to the carrying amounts of assets 

by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during 

and liabilities in the separate financial statements of each entity and the 

the period. Diluted EPS is determined by adjusting the profit or loss 

tax values applying under tax consolidation.

Any current tax liabilities (or assets) are assumed by the head entity 

in the tax–consolidated group and are recognised as amounts payable 

attributable to ordinary shareholders and the weighted average number 

of ordinary shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential 

ordinary shares.

(receivable) to (from) other entities in the tax–consolidated group in 

(x)  Changes in accounting policy

conjunction with any tax funding arrangement amounts (refer below). 

Any difference between these amounts is recognised by the Company as 

(i)  Warranty costs

an equity contribution or distribution.

Nature of tax funding arrangements and tax sharing arrangements

During the reporting period, management changed its accounting policy in 

respect of the classification of warranty costs in the income statement. It 

was determined that warranty costs should be included in cost of sales to 

The members of the tax–consolidated group have entered into a tax 

better reflect the nature of the cost. In the prior reporting period warranty 

funding arrangement and a tax sharing agreement with the head entity. 

costs were reported in selling expenses. The impact on the income 

Under the terms of the tax funding arrangement GWA International 

statement in the consolidated entity for the year ended 30 June 2009 is 

Limited and each of the entities in the tax consolidated group recognise 

to increase cost of sales and decrease selling expenses by $12,300,000 

inter–entity receivables (payables) equal in amount to the tax liability 
(asset) assumed by the head entity.

(2008: $10,504,000). There is no impact on the balance sheet for the 
consolidated entity. No adjustments have arisen for the Company.

(u)  Segment reporting

(ii)  Selling costs

A segment is a distinguishable component of the consolidated entity that 

During the reporting period, management changed its accounting policy 

is engaged either in providing products or services (business segment), 

in respect of the classification of costs incurred by state selling regions in 

or in providing products or services within a particular economic 

the income statement. It was determined that all costs incurred by state 

environment (geographical segment), which is subject to risks and 

selling regions should be included in selling expenses to better reflect the 

rewards that are different from those of other segments.

(v)  Goods and services tax

nature of the cost. In the prior reporting period certain costs of the state 

selling regions were reported in administrative expenses. The impact on 

the income statement in the consolidated entity for the year ended 30 

Revenue, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of 

June 2009 is to increase selling expenses and decrease administrative 

goods and services tax (GST), except where the amount of GST incurred 

expenses by $12,585,000 (2008: $12,218,000). There is no impact on 

is not recoverable from the taxation authority. In these circumstances, the 

the balance sheet for the consolidated entity. No adjustments have arisen 

GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part 

for the Company.

of the expense.

59

GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

1. siGniFicant accountinG policies (continued) 

(y)  New standards and interpretations not yet adopted

■■

 Revised AASB 123 Borrowing Costs removes the option to expense 
borrowing costs and requires that an entity capitalise borrowing costs 

directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production 

The following standards, amendments to standards and interpretations 

of a qualifying asset as part of the cost of that asset. The revised 

have been identified as those which may impact the entity in the period 

AASB 123 will become mandatory for the consolidated entity’s 30 

of initial application. They are available for early adoption at 30 June 

June 2010 financial statements. In accordance with the transitional 

2009, but have not been applied in preparing this financial report:

provisions the consolidated entity will apply the revised AASB 123 

■■

 Revised AASB 3 Business Combinations (2008) changes the 
application of acquisition accounting for business combinations 

and the accounting for non–controlling (minority) interests. Key 

changes include: the immediate expensing of all transaction 

to qualifying assets for which capitalisation of borrowing costs 

commences on or after the effective date. Therefore, there will be 

no impact on prior periods in the consolidated entity’s 30 June 2010 

financial statements.

costs; measurement of contingent consideration at acquisition 

date with subsequent changes through the income statement; 

■■

 Revised AASB 127 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements 
(2008) changes the accounting for investments in subsidiaries. Key 

measurement of non–controlling (minority) interests at full fair value 

changes include: the re–measurement to fair value of any previous/

or the proportionate share of the fair value of the underlying net 

retained investment when control is obtained/lost, with any resulting 

assets; guidance on issues such as reacquired rights and vendor 

gain or loss being recognised in profit or loss; and the treatment 

indemnities; and the inclusion of combinations by contract alone and 

of increases in ownership interest after control is obtained as 

those involving mutuals. The revised standard becomes mandatory 

transactions with equity holders in their capacity as equity holders. 

for the consolidated entity’s 30 June 2010 financial statements, 

The revised standard will become mandatory for the consolidated 

which will be applied prospectively and therefore there will be no 

entity’s 30 June 2010 financial statements. The consolidated entity 

impact on prior periods in the consolidated entity’s 30 June 2010 

has not yet determined the potential effect of the revised standard on 

financial statements.

the consolidated entity’s financial report.

■■

 AASB 8 Operating Segments introduces the “management 
approach” to segment reporting. AASB 8, which becomes mandatory 

■■

 AASB 2008–1 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standard 
– Share–based Payment: Vesting Conditions and Cancellations 

for the consolidated entity’s 30 June 2010 financial statements, will 

changes the measurement of share–based payments that contain 

require a change in the presentation and the disclosure of segment 

non–vesting conditions. AASB 2008–1 becomes mandatory for 

information based on the internal reports regularly reviewed by the 

the consolidated entity’s 30 June 2010 financial statements with 

consolidated entity’s Chief Operating Decision Maker in order to 
assess each segment’s performance and to allocate resources to 

retrospective application. The consolidated entity has not yet 
determined the potential effect of the amending standard on the 

them. Currently the consolidated entity presents segment information 

consolidated entity’s financial report.

in respect of its business and geographical segments (see note 2). 

Under the management approach, the effect of the revised standard 

on the consolidated entity’s 30 June 2010 financial statements is not 

significant.

■■

 Revised AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements (2007) 
introduces as a financial statement (formerly “primary” statement) 

the “statement of comprehensive income”. The revised standard 

does not change the recognition, measurement or disclosure of 

transactions and events that are required by other AASBs. The 

revised AASB 101 will become mandatory for the consolidated 

entity’s 30 June 2010 financial statements. The consolidated entity 

has not yet determined the potential effect of the revised standard on 

the consolidated entity’s disclosures.

60

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

2.  seGment reportinG

Geographical segments

A segment is a distinguishable component of the consolidated entity 

The business segments are managed on a worldwide basis, but operate 

that is engaged either in providing related products or services (business 

mainly in one geographical area being Australia. Sales offices are 

segment), or in providing products or services within a particular 

operated in New Zealand, Asia, United States and Europe, however the 

economic environment (geographical segment), which is subject to risks 

sales revenue from these geographical areas comprise only 15% of the 

and rewards that are different from those of other segments.

consolidated entity’s total sales revenue and are individually less 

Segment information is presented in respect of the consolidated entity’s 

than 10%.

business and geographical segments. The primary format, business 

In presenting information on the basis of geographical segments, 

segments, is based on the consolidated entity’s management and internal 

segment revenue is based on the geographical location of customers. 

reporting structure.

Segment assets are based on the geographical location of the assets.

Inter–segment pricing is determined on an arm’s length basis.

Segment results, assets and liabilities include items directly attributable 

to a segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable 

basis. Unallocated items comprise mainly the mower business, 

interest–bearing loans, borrowings and expenses, and corporate assets 

and expenses.

Segment capital expenditure is the total cost incurred during the period 

to acquire segment assets that are expected to be used for more than 

one period.

Business segments

The consolidated entity comprises the following main business segments:

■■

Building fixtures and fittings

u    Sanitaryware

u    Building hardware products

   u    Baths and spas

   u    Household accessories, sinks and tapware

   u    Hot water products

■■

Commercial furniture

u    Education products

u    Hospitality products

u    Stadia seating

■■

 Unallocated

u    Domestic and ride–on mowers

u    Corporate administration

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

2.  seGment reportinG (continued)

Business segments 

Building Fixtures  
and Fittings* 

Commercial Furniture*  Unallocated* 

Eliminations 

Consolidated*

In thousands of AUD 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

Revenue: 

External sales 

Inter–segment sales 

Total sales revenue 

593,671  558,657 

56,088  56,864 

28,585 

33,381 

– 

–  678,344  648,902

– 

– 

32 

1,852 

– 

– 

(32) 

(1,852) 

– 

–

593,671  558,657 

56,120  58,716 

28,585 

33,381 

(32) 

(1,852)  678,344  648,902

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

86,955 

99,394

(4,096) 

(16,816)

82,859 

82,578

  (13,844) 

(14,623)

  (20,690) 

(22,065)

48,325 

45,890

–  782,453  775,454

–  356,289  386,334

– 

– 

– 

– 

16,789 

17,386

1,316 

534

17,348 

22,235

– 

9,419

Segment result 

98,493  109,552 

2,033 

3,369 

(13,571)  (13,527) 

Restructuring income/(expenses) 

(4,096) 

(21,629) 

– 

(614) 

– 

5,427 

Segment result after restructuring expenses  94,397 

87,923 

2,033 

2,755 

(13,571) 

(8,100) 

Net financing costs 

Income tax expense 

Profit for the year 

Segment assets 

Segment liabilities 

Depreciation 

Amortisation 

Capital expenditure 

Impairment losses 

Geographical segments

643,196  627,265 

33,703  35,087  105,554  113,102 

114,733  106,358 

7,449 

9,457  234,107  270,519 

14,961 

14,895 

1,248 

1,690 

1,081 

275 

– 

– 

580 

235 

801 

259 

14,165 

17,028 

2,332 

1,504 

851 

3,703 

– 

9,419 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Australia* 

 Unallocated* 

 Consolidated *

In thousands of AUD 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

External sales revenue 

580,934  551,587 

97,410  97,315  678,344  648,902

Segment assets 

737,836  727,045 

44,617  48,409  782,453  775,454

Capital expenditure 

15,759 

19,433 

1,589 

2,802 

17,348 

22,235

* All segments are continuing operations

62

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

3.  other income 

In thousands of AUD 

Foreign currency gains – realised 

Foreign currency gains – unrealised 

Net gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 

Dividends received from controlled companies 

Other 

4.  other eXpenses 

In thousands of AUD 

Foreign currency losses – realised 

Foreign currency losses – unrealised 

Net loss on disposal of intangible assets 

Distribution losses from controlled trusts 

Restructuring and impairment expenses 

5.  personnel eXpenses 

In thousands of AUD 

Wages and salaries – including superannuation contributions, 

annual leave, long service leave and on–costs 

Equity–settled share–based payment transactions 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

1,148 

1,927 

156 

– 

1,107 

4,338 

2008 

2,082 

1,370 

6,879 

2009 

2008

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

– 

40,000 

65,000

1,002 

– 

–

11,333 

40,000 

65,000

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

660 

743 

43 

– 

4,096 

5,542 

2008 

217 

1,264 

– 

– 

23,347 

24,828 

2009 

2008

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

2,359

–

2,359

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

144,384 

143,509 

650 

– 

145,034 

143,509 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

6.  auditors’ remuneration 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

In AUD 

Audit services 

Auditors of the Company 

KPMG Australia: 

Audit and review of financial reports 

Overseas KPMG Firms: 

Audit and review of financial reports 

Other services 

Auditors of the Company 

KPMG Australia: 

Other assurance services 

Taxation services 

Overseas KPMG Firms: 

Other assurance services 

Taxation services 

7.  net FinancinG costs 

In thousands of AUD 

Interest income 

Interest expense 

Net financing costs/(income) 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

398,000 

360,000 

12,000 

10,000

85,000 

66,000 

– 

–

483,000 

426,000 

12,000 

10,000

30,000 

– 

17,000 

112,000 

21,000 

83,000 

– 

– 

151,000 

112,000 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

(2,866) 

(5,068) 

(797) 

(745)

16,710 

13,844 

19,691 

14,623 

– 

–

(797) 

(745)

8.  restructurinG and impairment eXpenses 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

In thousands of AUD 

Restructuring expenses 

Impairment loss on intangible assets 

Gains on property sales (included in ‘other income’) 

Net expense before tax 

Tax benefit 

Net restructuring expense after tax 

64

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

4,096 

13,928 

– 

– 

9,419 

(6,531) 

4,096 

16,816 

(1,229) 

(2,547) 

2,867 

14,269 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

9.  income taX eXpense

Recognised in the income statement 

In thousands of AUD 

Current tax expense/(benefit) 

Current year 

Adjustments for prior years 

Deferred tax expense 

Origination and reversal of temporary differences 

Benefit of tax losses recognised 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

20,491 

20,572 

32 

– 

20,523 

20,572 

167 

– 

167 

1,493 

– 

1,493 

(3) 

– 

(3) 

– 

– 

– 

(3) 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Total income tax expense/(benefit) in income statement 

20,690 

22,065 

Numerical reconciliation between tax expense and pre–tax net profit 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

In thousands of AUD 

Profit before tax 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

69,015 

67,955 

39,332 

62,641

Income tax using the domestic tax rate of 30% (2008: 30%) 

20,705 

20,387 

11,800 

18,792

Increase in income tax expense due to: 

Non–deductible expenses 

Non–deductible impairment loss 

Rebateable trust distributions 

Decrease in income tax expense due to: 

Effect of tax rate in foreign jurisdictions 

Non–assessable income 

Non–assessable capital profits 

Rebateable investment allowance 

Rebateable research and development  

Rebateable dividends 

Under / (over) provided in prior years 

Income tax expense/(benefit) on pre–tax net profit 

Deferred tax recognised directly in equity 

In thousands of AUD 

Derivatives 

877 

– 

– 

(48) 

(571) 

530 

2,825 

– 

(97) 

(111) 

– 

(1,280) 

(86) 

(219) 

– 

– 

(189) 

197 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

708

–

–

–

–

–

– 

(12,000) 

(19,500)

20,658 

22,065 

32 

– 

20,690 

22,065 

(3) 

– 

(3) 

–

–

–

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

(324) 

2008 

193 

2009 

2008

- 

-

65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

10.  earninGs per share

Basic earnings per share
Calculation of basic earnings per share at 30 June 2009 was based on the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of $48,325,000 (2008: 
$45,890,000) and a weighted average number of ordinary shares of 285,498,000 (2008: 280,075,000) calculated as follows:

Cents per share 

Profit attributable to ordinary shareholders 

Profit for the year 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares  

Issued ordinary shares at 1 July 

Effect of shares issued 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares at 30 June  

Diluted earnings per share

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

16.9 

2008

16.4

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

2008

48,325 

45,890

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

2008

280,173 

279,923

5,325 

152

285,498 

280,075

Calculation of diluted earnings per share at 30 June 2009 was based on the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of $48,325,000  
(2008: $45,890,000) and a weighted average number of ordinary shares of 285,899,000 (2008: 280,075,000) calculated as follows:

Cents per share 

Profit attributable to ordinary shareholders 

Profit for the year 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares  

Issued ordinary shares at 1 July 

Effect of shares issued 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares at 30 June  

66

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

16.9 

2008

16.4

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

2008

48,325 

45,890

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

2008

280,173 

279,923

5,726 

152

285,899 

280,075

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

11.  cash and cash equivalents 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

In thousands of AUD 

Bank balances 

Call deposits 

Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows  

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

22,011 

23,004 

45,015 

18,323 

35,095 

53,418 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

The consolidated entity’s exposure to interest rate risk and a sensitivity analysis for financial assets and liabilities are disclosed in note 26.

12.  trade and other receivaBles 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

In thousands of AUD 

Current 

Trade receivables 

Provision for impairment 

Derivatives used for hedging 

Employee share loans 

Other 

Non–current 

Receivables due from controlled entities 

Derivatives used for hedging 

Employee share loans 

Other 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

108,282 

100,121 

(2,028) 

(1,052) 

23,943 

27,872 

661 

4,181 

644 

3,995 

135,039 

131,580 

– 

– 

– 

661 

– 

661 

–

–

–

644

–

644

– 

6,318 

5,859 

8 

– 

– 

5,285 

13 

697,807 

657,847

– 

–

5,859 

5,285

– 

–

12,185 

5,298 

703,666 

663,132

The consolidated entity’s exposure to credit and currency risk and impairment losses related to trade and other receivables are disclosed in note 26.

13.  inventories 

In thousands of AUD 

Raw materials and consumables 

Work in progress 

Finished goods 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

17,818 

18,676 

7,518 

6,892 

86,335 

81,940 

111,671 

107,508 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

14.  assets and liaBilities classiFied as held For sale

The sanitaryware business Wisa Beheer, which forms part of the Building Fixtures and Fittings segment, was presented as a disposal group held for 
sale in the prior reporting period. Management became aware during the current reporting period of the prospective buyer’s inability to obtain finance 
due to the difficult prevailing market conditions. Accordingly, the conditions for sale of the Wisa business no longer exist and the business is no longer 
classified as held for sale. There is no impact on the results for the current reporting period ended 30 June 2009 due to this change in circumstances.  
An impairment loss of $9,419,000 was recognised in the prior reporting period.

15.  acquisitions oF suBsidiaries

Business combination

On 5 January 2009 the consolidated entity acquired 100% of the shares in Austral Lock Pty Ltd for $12,419,000. Austral Lock Pty Ltd is an Australian 

manufacturer of locks for security and sliding doors. As part of the transaction, the consolidated entity had a call option over the Indian operations of 

Austral Lock Pty Ltd which was not exercised.

In the six months to 30 June 2009 the subsidiary contributed profit before tax of $432,000. If the acquisition had occurred on 1 July 2008, 

management estimates that consolidated revenue for the period would have been $682,930,000 and consolidated profit before tax would have been 

$69,447,000. In determining those amounts, management has assumed that the fair value adjustments that arose on the date of acquisition would 

have been the same if the acquisition occurred on 1 July 2008.

The acquisition had the following effect on the consolidated entity’s assets and liabilities on acquisition date:

In thousands of AUD 

Trade and other receivables 

Inventories 

Property, plant and equipment 

Intangible assets 

Deferred tax assets 

Trade and other payables 

Employee benefits 

Deferred tax liabilities 

Net identifiable assets and liabilities 

Goodwill on acquisition 

Consideration paid (including legal and consulting fees), satisfied in cash 

Pre–acquisition 
carrying amounts  

Fair value 
adjustments   

Recognised values   

on acquisition

2,078 

2,899 

3,901 

2,365 

– 

(278) 

(390) 

– 

10,575 

– 

– 

– 

812 

117 

– 

– 

(180) 

749 

2,078

2,899

3,901

3,177

117

(278)

(390)

(180)

11,324

1,095

12,419

 Pre-acquisition carrying amounts were determined based on applicable AASBs immediately before the acquisition. The values of assets and liabilities 
recognised on acquisition are their estimated fair values determined by independent consultants.

The goodwill recognised on the acquisition is attributable mainly to the skills and technical expertise of the acquired businesses work force and the 
synergies expected to be achieved from integrating the company into the consolidated entity’s existing building hardware product business.

68

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

16.  current taX assets and liaBilities

The current tax asset for the consolidated entity of $980,000 (2008: $829,000) represents the amount of income taxes recoverable in respect 
of current and prior periods.  The current tax liability for the consolidated entity of $7,207,000 (2008: $5,890,000) and for the Company of 
$7,123,000 (2008: $5,854,000) represents the amount of income taxes payable in respect of the current period.  In accordance with the tax 
consolidation legislation, the Company as the head entity of the Australian tax–consolidated group has assumed the current tax asset / (liability) 
initially recognised by the members in the tax–consolidated group.

17.  deFerred taX assets and liaBilities

Recognised deferred tax assets and liabilities

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following:

Consolidated 

In thousands of AUD 

Assets  

Liabilities 

Net

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

Property, plant and equipment 

841 

817 

(218) 

(181) 

623 

636

Intangible assets 

Inventories 

Employee benefits 

Provisions 

Other items 

Tax assets / (liabilities) 

Set off of tax 

Net tax assets / (liabilities) 

– 

– 

(343) 

(205) 

(343) 

(205)

2,624 

3,583 

7,297 

7,879 

10,607 

8,096 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

2,624 

3,583

7,297 

7,879

10,607 

8,096

2,603 

3,202 

(472) 

(346) 

2,131 

2,856

23,972 

23,577  (1,033) 

(732) 

22,939 

22,845

(1,011) 

(732) 

1,011 

732 

– 

–

22,961 

22,845 

(22) 

– 

22,939 

22,845

Unrecognised deferred tax assets

Deferred tax assets have not been recognised in respect of the following items:

In thousands of AUD 

Tax losses 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

451 

2008 

351 

2009 

2008

– 

–

The deductible tax losses accumulated at balance date do not expire under current tax legislation.  Deferred tax assets have not been recognised in 

respect of these items because it is not probable that future taxable profit will be available against which to offset the tax benefit of these losses.

69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

17.  deFerred taX assets and liaBilities (continued)

movement in temporary differences during the year

CONSOLIDATED 

  THE COmPANy 

In thousands of AUD 

  Balance 
   1 July 07 

Recognised  Recognised 
in income 

in equity 

Acquired in 
business 

Balance 

Balance   Recognised   Recognised 

Balance  

 combinations  30 June 08  1 July 07 

in income 

 equity 

30 June 08

Property, plant and equipment  

947 

(311) 

Intangible assets 

(197) 

(8) 

Inventories 

  3,979 

(396) 

Employee benefits 

  7,524 

355 

Provisions 

Other items 

  10,653 

(2,557) 

  1,625 

1,424 

  24,531 

(1,493) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(193) 

(193) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

636 

(205) 

3,583 

7,879 

8,096 

2,856 

22,845 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

In thousands of AUD 

  Balance 
   1 July 08 

Recognised  Recognised 
in income 

in equity 

Acquired in 
business 

Balance 

Balance   Recognised   Recognised 

Balance  

 combinations  30 June 09  1 July 08 

in income 

 equity 

30 June 09

Property, plant and equipment  

636 

(205) 

  3,583 

  7,879 

(13) 

42 

(959) 

(699) 

  8,096 

2,511 

  2,856 

(1,049) 

  22,845 

(167) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

324 

324 

– 

(180) 

– 

117 

– 

– 

623 

(343) 

2,624 

7,297 

10,607 

2,131 

(63) 

22,939 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Intangible assets 

Inventories 

Employee benefits 

Provisions 

Other items 

70

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
    
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

18.  property, plant and equipment 

In thousands of AUD  

Cost 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy  

Land and 
buildings 

Plant and  motor  Work in 
equipment  vehicles   progress 

Total  

Land and   Plant and   motor   Work in 
buildings  equipment   vehicles  progress  Total

Balance at 1 July 2007 

54,227 

188,962  13,321 

10,682  267,192 

Additions 

Transfers 

Disposals 

374 

13,281 

3,170 

1,480 

18,305 

– 

5,441 

– 

(5,441) 

– 

(4,420) 

(19,638) 

(3,948) 

– 

(28,006) 

Effect of movements in foreign exchange 

133 

721 

(119) 

(80) 

655 

Balance at 30 June 2008 

50,314 

188,767  12,424 

6,641  258,146 

Balance at 1 July 2008 

50,314 

188,767  12,424 

6,641  258,146 

Acquisitions through business combinations 

– 

3,883 

18 

– 

3,901 

Additions 

Transfers 

Disposals 

122 

6,629 

2,664 

1,099 

10,514 

– 

– 

740 

– 

(740) 

– 

(18,002) 

(9,934) 

– 

(27,936) 

Effect of movements in foreign exchange 

234 

1,724 

39 

56 

2,053 

Balance at 30 June 2009 

50,670 

183,741 

5,211 

7,056  246,678 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

71

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

18.  property, plant and equipment (continued) 

In thousands of AUD  

Depreciation and impairment losses 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy  

Land and 
buildings 

Plant and  motor  Work in 
equipment  vehicles   progress 

Total  

Land and   Plant and   motor   Work in 
buildings  equipment   vehicles  progress  Total

Balance at 1 July 2007 

(7,402)  (140,354) 

(6,417) 

–  (154,173) 

Depreciation charge for the year 

(984) 

(13,985) 

(2,417) 

Disposals 

942 

16,623 

2,828 

Effect of movements in foreign exchange 

(102) 

(653) 

82 

– 

– 

– 

(17,386) 

20,393 

(673) 

Balance at 30 June 2008 

(7,546)  (138,369) 

(5,924) 

–  (151,839) 

Balance at 1 July 2008 

(7,546)  (138,369) 

(5,924) 

–  (151,839) 

Depreciation charge for the year 

(1,039) 

(13,826) 

(1,924) 

Disposals 

– 

18,104 

4,054 

Effect of movements in foreign exchange 

(171) 

(1,460) 

(8) 

– 

– 

– 

(16,789) 

22,158 

(1,639) 

Balance at 30 June 2009 

(8,756)  (135,551) 

(3,802) 

–  (148,109) 

Carrying amounts 

At 1 July 2007 

At 30 June 2008 

At 1 July 2008 

At 30 June 2009 

Impairment losses

46,825 

48,608 

6,904 

10,682  113,019 

42,768 

50,398 

6,500 

6,641  106,307 

42,768 

50,398 

6,500 

6,641  106,307 

41,914 

48,190 

1,409 

7,056 

98,569 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

There were no impairment losses to property, plant and equipment during the 2009 financial year (2008: nil).

72

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

19.  intanGiBle assets 

In thousands of AUD  

Software 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy  

Trade names, 
Brand  designs and  
names 

patents    Goodwill 

Total  

Software 

Trade names, 
Brand   designs and 
names 

patents  Goodwill  Total 

Cost 

Balance at 1 July 2007 

Additions 

5,366  340,345 

3,930 

– 

Effect of movements in foreign exchange 

– 

620 

Balance at 30 June 2008 

9,296  340,965 

Balance at 1 July 2008 

9,296  340,965 

Acquisitions through business combinations 

– 

Additions 

Disposals 

6,834 

(291) 

– 

– 

– 

Effect of movements in foreign exchange 

– 

631 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–  345,711 

– 

– 

3,930 

620 

–  350,261 

–  350,261 

3,177 

1,095 

4,272 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

6,834 

(291) 

631 

Balance at 30 June 2009 

15,839  341,596 

3,177 

1,095  361,707 

Amortisation and impairment losses 

Balance at 1 July 2007 

Amortisation for the year 

Impairment loss 

(1,248) 

(534) 

– 

– 

– 

(9,419) 

Balance at 30 June 2008 

(1,782) 

(9,419) 

Balance at 1 July 2008 

(1,782) 

(9,419) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Amortisation for the year 

Disposals 

(1,166) 

248 

– 

– 

(150) 

– 

Balance at 30 June 2009 

(2,700) 

(9,419) 

(150) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(1,248) 

(534) 

(9,419) 

(11,201) 

(11,201) 

(1,316) 

248 

(12,269) 

Carrying amounts 

At 1 July 2007 

At 30 June 2008 

At 1 July 2008 

At 30 June 2009 

4,118  340,345 

7,514  331,546 

7,514  331,546 

– 

– 

– 

–  344,463 

–  339,060 

–  339,060 

13,139  332,177 

3,027 

1,095  349,438 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

19.  intanGiBle assets (continued)

Carrying value of brand names and goodwill 

In thousands of AUD 

Building Fixtures and Fittings 

Commercial Furniture 

Impairment testing for brand names and goodwill

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

320,872 

319,146 

12,400 

12,400 

333,272 

331,546 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

The recoverable amounts of all brand names and goodwill were assessed at 30 June 2009 based on internal value in use calculations and no 
impairment was identified for any segments (2008: Building Fixtures and Fittings segment: $9,419,000, Commercial Furniture segment: nil).

Value in use was determined by discounting the future cash flows generated from the continuing use of the business unit and to which the brand is 
attached and was based on the following assumptions:

■■

■■

 Cash flows were projected based on actual operating results and business plans of the units, with projected cash flows ranging from two to five 
years, before a terminal value was calculated.  Maintainable earnings were adjusted for an allocation of corporate overheads.

 Management used a constant growth rate of 2.5% in calculating terminal values of the units, which does not exceed the long–term average growth 
rate for the industry.

■■

A post–tax discount rate of 10.27% was used in discounting the projected future cash flows.

The values assigned to the key assumptions represent management’s assessment of future trends in the Building Fixtures and Fittings and Commercial 
Furniture industries and are based on both external sources and internal sources (historical data).

The above assumptions are particularly sensitive in the following areas:

■■

■■

 An increase of 1 percentage point in the post–tax discount rate would have decreased value in use for the Building Fixtures and Fittings segment 
by $99,200,000 and for the Commercial Furniture segment by $4,600,000.  No impairment losses would be realised for either segment as a result 
of this change.

 A 10 percent decrease in future planned revenues would have decreased value in use for the Building Fixtures and Fittings segment by 
$74,300,000 and for the Commercial Furniture segment by $2,500,000.  No impairment losses would be realised for either segment as a result of 

this change.

20.  trade and other payaBles 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

In thousands of AUD 

Current 

Trade payables and accrued expenses 

Derivatives used for hedging 

Non–trade payables and accrued expenses 

Non–current 

Derivatives used for hedging 

Payables to controlled entities 

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

60,583 

25,477 

3,171 

50,287 

27,592 

3,413 

89,231 

81,292 

5,585 

– 

5,585 

– 

– 

– 

57 

– 

– 

57 

– 

54

–

–

54

–

597,077 

583,653

597,077 

583,653

The consolidated entity’s exposure to currency risk and liquidity risk related to trade and other payables are disclosed in note 26.

74

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

21.  interest–BearinG loans and BorroWinGs

This note provides information about the contractual terms of the consolidated entity’s and the Company’s interest–bearing loans and borrowings, 
which are measured at amortised cost.  For more information about the consolidated entity’s exposure to interest rate and foreign currency risk, see 

note 26.

Non–current liabilities 

In thousands of AUD 

Unsecured bank loans 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

200,000 

246,975 

– 

–

Terms and debt repayment schedule 

 CONSOLIDATED

In thousands of AUD  

Unsecured bank loan 

Unsecured bank loan 

Unsecured bank loan 

Unsecured bank loan 

Unsecured bank loan 

year of  

Currency  maturity   

2009  
Face  
value 

2009  
Carrying  
amount   

2008  
Face 
value 

2008  
 Carrying 
amount

AUD 

2011 

60,000 

60,000 

60,000 

60,000

AUD 

– 

– 

60,000 

60,000

AUD 

2011 

90,000 

90,000 

65,000 

65,000

AUD 

2011 

50,000 

50,000 

50,000 

50,000

EUR 

– 

– 

11,975 

11,975

200,000  200,000  246,975  246,975

The unsecured bank loans mature over the next 2 years and have variable rates ranging from 5.01% – 5.26% at 30 June 2009  
(2008: 5.40% – 8.31%).

Financing facilities 

In thousands of AUD 

Bank overdraft 

Standby letters of credit 

Unsecured bank facility 

Facilities utilised at reporting date 

Bank overdraft 

Standby letters of credit 

Unsecured bank facility 

Facilities not utilised at reporting date 

Bank overdraft 

Standby letters of credit 

Unsecured bank facility 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

6,000 

8,000 

2008 

6,357 

7,685 

247,500 

286,975 

261,500 

301,017 

– 

– 

1,530 

1,578 

200,000 

246,975 

201,530 

248,553 

6,000 

6,470 

47,500 

59,970 

6,357 

6,107 

40,000 

52,464 

2009 

2008

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

21.   interest–BearinG loans and BorroWinGs (continued)

Financing arrangements

GWA International Limited, GWA Finance Pty Limited, a wholly owned controlled entity of GWA International Limited, and each other controlled entity of

GWA International Limited, have entered into a Master Financing Agreement with a number of banks.

This document provides for the following:

(i)   GWA Finance Pty Limited and certain other operating controlled entities of GWA International Limited to borrow and enter into certain risk and 

hedging facilities;

(ii)   Individual banks to provide facilities direct to GWA Finance Pty Limited and certain other operating controlled entities of GWA International Limited 

by joining the Master Financing Agreement and being bound by the common covenants and conditions contained therein.

Bank overdraft

The bank overdraft facility available to the consolidated entity is unsecured. Interest on the bank overdraft facility is charged at prevailing market rates.

No drawdowns against this facility had been made as at 30 June 2009.

Unsecured bank loans

Bank loans are provided to GWA Finance Pty Limited under the facility agreements. The bank loans are denominated in Australian dollars. The bank 
loans are unsecured and have a maximum three year rolling maturity.

The loans bear interest at market rates and interest is payable every 30 to 90 days. The consolidated entity hedges its exposure to variable interest 
rates through interest rate swap transactions.

Letter of credit

The letter of credit facilities are committed facilities available to be drawn down under the facility agreements. The limits are specified in the 

facility agreements. 

22.  employee BeneFits 

Current 

In thousands of AUD 

Liability for long–service leave 

Liability for annual leave 

Liability for on–costs 

Non–current 

Liability for long–service leave 

Liability for on–costs 

Defined contribution superannuation funds

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

1,778 

9,943 

2,470 

2008 

1,728 

11,357 

3,514 

14,191 

16,599 

10,073 

1,264 

9,794 

881 

11,337 

10,675 

2009 

2008

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

The consolidated entity makes contributions to a defined contribution superannuation fund.  Contributions are charged against income as they are 
made based on various percentages of each employee’s gross salaries.  The amount recognised as expense was $9,212,000 for the financial year 
ended 30 June 2009 (2008: $8,656,000).

76

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

22. employee BeneFits (continued)

Employee share plan

The employee share plan was established to assist in the retention and motivation of employees. All permanent employees of the Company, who are 
invited to participate, may participate in the plan. The maximum number of shares subject to the Plan at any time may not exceed 5% of the nominal 
amount of all Ordinary Shares on issue. The Plan does not provide for the issue of options and no options have been issued by the Company at 
balance date.

Under the Plan, shares can either be issued to employees or purchased on market, and in both cases the employee will pay market price for the 
shares. During 2009, 442,500 ordinary shares were issued to employees at the market price of $1.90, being total market value of $840,750. In the 
prior year, 400,000 ordinary shares were purchased on market for employees at an average share price of $3.07 and 250,000 ordinary shares were 
issued to employees at the market price of $3.52, being total market value of $2,108,000.

As at 30 June 2009, loans are issued for 3,933,750 (2008: 3,846,250) shares and the remaining balances of these loans is $9,962,000 (2008: 
$10,442,000) or $6,520,000 (2008: $5,929,000) at net present value. During 2009, dividends of $630,000 (2008: $814,000) were paid against the 
loans and a further $691,000 (2008: $456,000) was paid by employees against these loans.

23. share-Based payments 

The Long Term Incentive (Equity) Plan was approved by shareholders at the 2008 Annual General Meeting. Under the plan, the Board may offer 
performance rights to participants which entitle the holder to ordinary shares in the Company (or in limited cases cash payments made), subject to 
meeting certain financial performance hurdles and the holder remaining in employment with the Company until the nominated 
vesting date.

The performance hurdles are subject to financial performance conditions which measure Total Shareholder Returns (TSR) compared to a peer group 
of companies, and growth in Earnings Per Share (EPS). The performance hurdles are challenging and achievable and focus senior executives on 
sustained long term growth consistent with shareholder wealth creation. The plan runs over a three year performance period and the rights will only 
vest if the performance hurdles are achieved. If the vesting conditions and performance hurdles are achieved, ordinary shares will be issued to the 
participants at no cost. If the performance hurdles are not met, then the rights are cancelled after three years. 

The performance hurdles are as follows:

■■

 EPS hurdle – 10% or more EPS growth over the three-year performance period; and

■■

 TSR hurdle – GWAIL’s TSR is more than the 50th percentile relative to the TSR of comparator companies.

Fair value

During the current financial year 1,185,000 performance rights were granted to employees (2008: nil) at a weighted average fair value of $1.65 (2008: 
nil). The fair value of the performance rights subject to the EPS hurdle for vesting (50%) was determined as $1.78 by using a Binomial option pricing 
model. The fair value of the performance rights granted subject to the TSR hurdle for vesting (50%) was determined as $1.51 by using a Monte Carlo 
simulation. When determining the fair values it was assumed the Company would have a dividend yield of 7.86%, the risk free rate was 3.25% and 
volatility ranged between 40-50% for the Company and its comparator companies listed for the TSR hurdle.

The fair value of the performance rights granted will be allocated to each financial year evenly over the specified three year service period. The amount 
recognised as personnel expenses in the current financial year was $650,000 (2008: nil).

77

 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

24.  provisions 

In thousands of AUD 

Consolidated 

Balance at 1 July 2008 

Provisions made during the year 

Provisions used during the year 

  Warranties 

Restructuring 

Site 
restoration 

Other 

Total

10,011 

8,159 

4,278 

6,490 

4,124 

24,903

4,096 

– 

2,549 

14,804

(6,093) 

(2,652) 

(541) 

(1,721) 

(11,007)

Effect of movements in foreign exchange 

16 

– 

– 

– 

16

Balance at 30 June 2009 

12,093 

5,722 

5,949 

4,952 

28,716

Current 

Non–current 

Warranties 

7,091 

5,002 

5,722 

2,559 

4,481 

19,853

– 

3,390 

471 

8,863

12,093 

5,722 

5,949 

4,952 

28,716

The total provision for warranties at balance date of $12,093,000 relates to future warranty expense on products sold during the current and previous 
financial years. The major warranty expense relates to hot water systems. The provision is based on estimates made from historical warranty data 
associated with similar products and services. The consolidated entity expects to expend $7,091,000 of the total provision in the financial year ending 

30 June 2010, and the majority of the balance of the liability over the following four years.

Restructuring

During the financial year ended 30 June 2009, provisions of $4,096,000 were made to cover the estimated costs of redundancies and related costs 
with respect to the closure of manufacturing operations and other business restructuring. At balance date the balance of the restructuring provision 
was $5,722,000.  Of this amount $1,755,000 remains from the prior financial year for onerous lease commitments in relation to sites restructured and 
$3,967,000 represents the balance remaining for the provision raised in the current year. The restructuring is expected to be completed by 
June 2010.

Site restoration

At balance date the balance of the site restoration provision was $5,949,000.  Payments of $541,000 were made in the current financial year. This 
provision relates to the removal of plant installed in leased premises where there is a liability under the lease for the plant to be removed on expiry and 
the leased premises made good, and for site remediation required. Site restoration will be incurred when leased sites are exited. The net present value 

of the provision has been calculated using a discount rate of 5.85 per cent.

78

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

Balance at 1 July 2008 

    353,938 

(7,565) 

193 

25.  capital and reserves

Reconciliation of movement in capital and reserves

In thousands of AUD  

Consolidated

Balance at 1 July 2007 

Total recognised income and expense 

Issue of ordinary shares 

Dividends to shareholders 

Balance at 30 June 2008 

Total recognised income and expense 

Share–based payments, net of tax 

Issue of ordinary shares 

Dividends to shareholders 

Balance at 30 June 2009 

In thousands of AUD  

The Company

Balance at 1 July 2007 

Total recognised income and expense 

Issue of ordinary shares 

Dividends to shareholders 

Balance at 30 June 2008 

Balance at 1 July 2008 

Total recognised income and expense 

Share–based payments, net of tax 

Issue of ordinary shares 

Dividends to shareholders 

Balance at 30 June 2009 

Share 
capital 

Translation   Hedging   compensation   Retained 
earnings 

reserve   

reserve  

reserve 

Total

Equity  

    353,062 

(2,553) 

– 

(5,012) 

876 

– 

– 

– 

17 

176 

– 

– 

    353,938 

(7,565) 

193 

– 

– 

34,043 

– 

4,026 

(755) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

650 

– 

– 

58,276 

408,802

45,890 

41,054

– 

876

(61,612) 

(61,612)

42,554 

389,120

42,554 

389,120

48,325 

51,596

– 

– 

650

34,043

(49,245) 

(49,245)

    387,981 

(3,539) 

(562) 

650 

41,634 

426,164 

Equity 

Share 

capital 

compensation 

reserve 

Retained 

earnings 

Total equity

353,062 

– 

876 

– 

353,938 

353,938 

– 

– 

34,043 

– 

387,981 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

650 

– 

– 

650 

49,407 

62,641 

– 

(61,612) 

50,436 

50,436 

39,335 

– 

– 

(49,245) 

40,526 

402,469

62,641

876

(61,612)

404,374

404,374

39,335

650

34,043

(49,245)

429,157

79

 
 
 
 
   
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

25.  capital and reserves (continued)

Share capital 

In thousands of shares 

On issue at 1 July – fully paid 

Issue of shares under the dividend reinvestment plan 

Issue of shares under the employee share plan 

On issue at 30 June – fully paid 

THE COmPANy

Ordinary shares 

2009 

2008

280,173 

279,923

17,403 

443 

–

250

298,019 

280,173

The Company does not have authorised capital or par value in respect of its issued shares.

The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at meetings of the 
Company.  All shares rank equally with regard to the Company’s residual assets.

Translation reserve

The translation reserve comprises all foreign exchange differences arising from the retranslation of the financial statements of foreign operations where 
their functional currency is different from the presentation currency of the reporting entity, as well as from the retranslation of liabilities that hedge the 
Company’s net investment in a foreign subsidiary.

Hedging reserve

The hedging reserve comprises the effective portion of the cumulative net change in the fair value of cash flow hedging instruments related to hedged 
transactions that have not yet occurred.

Equity compensation reserve

The equity compensation reserve represents the fair value of performance rights expensed during the year ended 30 June 2009 (2008: nil).

Dividends

Dividends recognised in the current year by the consolidated entity and the Company are:

In thousands of AUD 

2009 

Interim 2009 ordinary 

Final 2008 ordinary 

Total amount 

2008 

Interim 2008 ordinary 

Interim 2008 special 

Final 2007 ordinary 

Final 2007 special 

Total amount 

80

Cents 
per share 

Total amount 

Franked  

Date of 
payment

9.5 

8.0 

17.5 

26,831 

100% 

1st April 2009

22,414 

100% 

7th Oct 2008

49,245 

10.0 

28,017 

100% 

2nd April 2008

1.5 

8.0 

2.5 

4,203 

100% 

2nd April 2008

22,394 

100% 

2nd Oct 2007

6,998 

100% 

2nd Oct 2007

22.0 

61,612

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

25.  capital and reserves (continued) 

Dividends (continued)

Franked dividends declared or paid during the year were franked at the tax rate of 30%.

After the balance sheet date the following dividends were approved by the directors. The dividends have not been provided for. The declaration and 
subsequent payment of dividends has no income tax consequences.

In thousands of AUD 

Final ordinary 

Cents per share 

Total amount 

Franked  

Date of payment

8.5 

25,332 

100% 

7th Oct 2009

The financial effect of these dividends has not been brought to account in the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2009 and 
will be recognised in subsequent financial reports.

Dividend franking account 

In thousands of AUD 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008

30 per cent franking credits available to shareholders of GWA International Limited for subsequent financial years 

20,009 

22,528

The above available amounts are based on the balance of the dividend franking account at year–end adjusted for:

(a) franking credits/debits that will arise from the payment/settlement of the current tax liabilities/assets; and

(b) franking debits that will arise from the payment of dividends recognised as a liability at year–end.

The ability to utilise the franking credits is dependent upon there being sufficient available profits to declare dividends. The impact on the dividend 
franking account of dividends proposed after the balance sheet date, but not recognised as a liability, is to reduce it by $10,857,000 (2008: 
$9,606,000). In accordance with the tax consolidation legislation, the Company as the head entity in the tax–consolidated group has also assumed 
the benefit of $20,009,000 (2008: $22,528,000) franking credits.

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement

Exposure to credit, interest rate and currency risks arises in the normal course of the consolidated entity’s business. Derivative financial instruments 
are used to hedge exposure to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and interest rates.

Risk management policy

The Board has overall responsibility for the establishment and oversight of the risk management framework. The Board has established the 
Executive Risk Committee, which is responsible for developing and monitoring risk management policies. The Committee is required to report 
regularly to the Board on its activities.

Risk management policies are established to identify and analyse the risks faced by the consolidated entity and the Company, to set appropriate 
risk limits and controls, and to monitor risks and adherence to limits. Risk management policies and systems are reviewed regularly to reflect 
changes in market conditions and the consolidated entity’s and the Company’s activities.

The Board Audit Committee oversees how management monitors compliance with the risk management policies and procedures and reviews the 
adequacy of the risk management framework in relation to the risks faced by the consolidated entity and the Company. The Board Audit Committee 
is assisted in its oversight role by the Internal Audit team. The Internal Audit team conducts both regular and ad hoc reviews of risk management 
controls and procedures. The results of the reviews are reported to the Board Audit Committee.

81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

Capital management policy

The Board’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base and grow shareholder wealth. The Board monitors debt levels, cash flows and financial forecasts 

to establish appropriate levels of dividends and funds available to reinvest in the businesses or invest in growth opportunities.

The Board focuses on growing shareholder wealth by monitoring the performance of the consolidated entity by reference to the return on funds 

employed. The Board defines return on funds employed as trading earnings before interest and tax divided by net assets after adding back net debt.

There were no changes to the Boards approach to capital management during the year.

Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the consolidated entity and the Company if a customer or other counterparty to a financial instrument fails 
to discharge their obligations.

Management has a credit policy in place and the exposure to credit risk is monitored on an ongoing basis. A risk assessment process is used 
for customers requiring credit and credit insurance is utilised for major concentrations of trade debts. Goods are sold subject to retention of title 
clauses in most circumstances. The consolidated entity does not require collateral in respect of financial assets.

The consolidated entity maintains an allowance for impairment that represents its estimate of incurred losses in respect of trade receivables.

Transactions involving derivative financial instruments are with counterparties with sound credit ratings. Given their high credit ratings, 
management does not expect any counterparty to fail to meet its obligations.

The consolidated entity has two major customers which comprise 42% of the trade receivables carrying amount at 30 June 2009 (2008: 46%).  
At the balance sheet date there were no material uninsured concentrations of credit risk.

The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure of the consolidated entity and the Company.  The maximum 
exposure to credit risk at balance date was: 

In thousands of AUD 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Gross trade receivables 

Employee share loans 

Receivables due from controlled entities 

Commodity contracts used for hedging 

Forward exchange contracts used for hedging 

Interest rate swaps used for hedging 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

45,015 

53,418 

128,542 

118,683 

– 

– 

–

–

6,520 

5,929 

6,520 

5,929

– 

13,819 

– 

– 

16,442 

26,285 

– 

1,587 

697,807 

657,847

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

210,338 

205,902 

704,327 

663,776

82

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

Credit risk (continued)

The ageing of gross trade receivables for the consolidated entity at balance date is as follows:

In thousands of AUD 

Not yet due 

Past due 0–30 days 

Past due 31–60 days 

Past due 61–90 days 

Past due 91–120 days 

Past due 120+ days 

2009 
Gross  

78,523 

40,155 

3,245 

1,584 

2,850 

2,185 

CONSOLIDATED

2009 
Impairment  

2008 
Gross  

2008 
Impairment

(69) 

(13) 

(361) 

(150) 

(464) 

(971) 

66,844 

(170)

41,517 

4,778 

3,092 

1,482 

970 

(7)

(116)

(140)

(216)

(403)

128,542 

(2,028) 

118,683 

(1,052)

The carrying amount of gross trade receivables classified as not yet due at balance date for the consolidated entity that would be past due if terms had 
not been re-negotiated is as follows:

In thousands of AUD 

CONSOLIDATED

2009 
Gross  

2009 
Impairment  

2008 
Gross  

2008 
Impairment

Gross trade receivables with terms re–negotiated 

74 

(60) 

265 

(120)

The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables during the year for the consolidated entity was as follows:

In thousands of AUD 

Balance at 1 July 

Impairment loss recognised 

Impairment losses applied 

Effect of movements in foreign exchange 

Balance at 30 June 

Liquidity risk

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

2008

(1,052) 

(1,305) 

354 

(25) 

(804)

(527)

279

–

(2,028) 

(1,052)

Liquidity risk is the risk that the consolidated entity and the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The consolidated 
entity and the Company prepares cash flow forecasts and maintains financing and overdraft facilities with a number of institutions to ensure sufficient 
funds will be available to meet obligations without incurring excessive costs. The cash flows of the consolidated entity and the Company are controlled 
by management and reported monthly to the Board who is ultimately responsible for maintaining liquidity.

83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

Liquidity risk (continued) 

The contractual maturities of financial liabilities and derivatives that are cash flow hedges of the consolidated entity and the Company, including 
estimated interest payments are as follows:

In thousands of AUD  

Carrying   Contractual  Less than 6  6–12  
cash flows   months   months  
amount  

1–2  
years  

Carrying   Contractual  Less than 6   6–12  
amount   cash flows   months 

 months  

1–2 
years 

 CONSOLIDATED 

 THE COmPANy 

Non–derivative financial liabilities – 2008 

Unsecured bank loans 

(246,975)  (287,830)  (10,214)  (10,214)  (267,402) 

– 

– 

– 

Trade and other payables 

(50,287) 

(50,287)  (50,262) 

(25) 

– 

(54) 

(54) 

(54) 

Derivative financial liabilities – 2008 

Interest rate swaps designated as hedges 

1,587 

1,373 

569 

431 

373 

Forward exchange contracts designated 
as hedges – outflow 

Forward exchange contracts designated 
as hedges – inflow 

(27,592) 

(27,592)  (27,592) 

26,285 

26,285 

26,285 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Total at 30 June 2008 

(296,982)  (338,051)  (61,214) 

(9,808)  (267,029) 

(54) 

(54) 

(54) 

Non–derivative financial liabilities – 2009 

Unsecured bank loans 

(200,000)  (218,681) 

(5,490) 

(5,491)  (207,700) 

– 

– 

– 

Trade and other payables 

(60,583) 

(60,583)  (60,547) 

(36) 

– 

(57) 

(57) 

(57) 

Derivative financial liabilities – 2009 

Interest rate swaps designated as hedges 

(1,839) 

(2,056) 

(1,205) 

(733) 

(118) 

Commodity contracts designated 
as hedges – outflow 

Commodity contracts designated 
as hedges – inflow 

Forward exchange contracts designated 
as hedges – outflow 

Forward exchange contracts designated 
as hedges – inflow 

(12,280) 

(12,280) 

(3,982) 

(2,713) 

(5,585) 

13,819 

13,819 

4,342 

3,159 

6,318 

(16,943) 

(16,943)  (15,064) 

(1,879) 

16,442 

16,442 

14,568 

1,874 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Total at 30 June 2009 

(261,384)  (280,282)  (67,378) 

(5,819)  (207,085) 

(57) 

(57) 

(57) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

The unsecured bank loans have a maximum three year rolling maturity, subject to annual review. The periods in which the cash flows associated with 
derivatives arise match the periods of profit and loss impact.

84

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

market risk

Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices such as interest rates and foreign exchange rates will affect the consolidated entity’s and the 
Company’s income or value of holdings of financial instruments. The objective of market risk management is to manage and control market risk 
exposures within acceptable parameters.

The consolidated entity enters into derivatives and also incurs financial liabilities in order to manage market risks. All transactions are carried out within 
the guidelines set by the Executive Risk Committee.

a) Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that changes in interest rates will affect the consolidated entity’s and the Company’s income. The consolidated entity’s 
variable rate borrowings are exposed to a risk of change in cash flows due to changes in interest rates.

The consolidated entity adopts a policy of ensuring that its exposure to changes in interest rates on borrowings is reduced. Interest rate swaps, 
denominated in Australian dollars, have been entered into to achieve an appropriate mix of fixed and floating rate exposure. The swaps mature over the 
next 2 years and have fixed swap rates ranging from 3.76% to 7.36% (2008: 5.63% – 7.36%). At 30 June 2009, the consolidated entity had interest 
rate swaps with a notional contract amount of $125,000,000 (2008: $125,000,000).

The consolidated entity classifies interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges and states them at fair value.

The net fair value of swaps at 30 June 2009 was $1,839,000 recognised as a fair value derivative liability. (2008: $1,587,000 fair value 
derivative asset).

(i) Profile

At balance date the consolidated entity’s and the Company’s interest bearing financial instruments were:

        CONSOLIDATED   

                           THE COmPANy  

In thousands of AUD  

Variable rate financial instruments 

2009 

2009 
Notional  Carrying  Notional 
value  
amount 

value  

2008 

2008 

2009  

2008 
Carrying   Notional  Carrying  Notional  Carrying 
amount
amount 

 amount 

2009  

2008 

value 

value 

Unsecured bank loans 

 (200,000)  (200,000)  (246,975)  (246,975) 

Bank balances 

Call deposits 

Fixed rate financial instruments 

22,011 

22,011 

18,323 

18,323 

23,004 

23,004 

35,095 

35,095 

 (154,985)  (154,985)  (193,557)  (193,557) 

Interest rate swap derivatives 

  125,000 

(1,839)  125,000 

1,587 

Total 

  (29,985)  (156,824) 

(68,557)  (191,970) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

85

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

market risk (continued)

a)  Interest rate risk (continued)

(ii) Fair value sensitivity analysis for fixed rate instruments

 The consolidated entity does not account for fixed rate financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss.  Therefore a change in interest 
rates at the reporting date would not affect profit or loss.

 A change of 100 basis points in interest rates at balance date would have affected the consolidated entity’s and the Company’s equity and financial 
assets and liabilities as follows:

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

(603) 

(1,311) 

– 

603 

– 

1,311 

– 

– 

609 

1,608 

– 

(1,587) 

(609) 

– 

(21) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

In thousands of AUD 

Increase of 100 basis points 

Hedging reserve (increase)/decrease 

Financial assets increase/(decrease) 

Financial liabilities (increase)/decrease 

Decrease of 100 basis points 

Hedging reserve (increase)/decrease 

Financial assets increase/(decrease) 

Financial liabilities (increase)/decrease 

86

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

market risk (continued)

a)  Interest rate risk (continued)

(iii) Cash flow sensitivity analysis for fixed and variable rate instruments

 A change of 100 basis points in interest rates during the period would have affected the consolidated entity’s and the Company’s profit as follows:

In thousands of AUD 

Increase of 100 basis points 

Unsecured bank loans (AUD) 

Unsecured bank loans (EUR) 

Bank balances 

Interest rate swap derivatives 

Call deposits variable rate 

Call deposits fixed rate 

Decrease of 100 basis points 

Unsecured bank loans (AUD) 

Unsecured bank loans (EUR) 

Bank balances 

Interest rate swap derivatives 

Call deposits variable rate 

Call deposits fixed rate 

b)  Foreign currency risk

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

(2,207) 

(2,560) 

(117) 

220 

(122) 

183 

1,198 

1,049 

303 

– 

351 

166 

(603) 

(933) 

2,209 

2,565 

117 

(220) 

122 

(183) 

(1,198) 

(1,049) 

(303) 

– 

605 

(351) 

(166) 

938 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

The consolidated entity is exposed to foreign currency risk on sales, purchases and asset and liability holdings that are denominated in a currency 
other than the respective functional currencies of its subsidiaries and retranslation of the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries. The currencies 
giving rise to this risk are primarily NZD, USD and EUR.

The consolidated entity hedges its foreign currency exposure in respect of forecasted sales and purchases by entering into forward exchange contracts.  
The forward exchange contracts have maturities of less than six months after the balance sheet date. The consolidated entity classifies its forward 
exchange contracts hedging forecasted transactions as cash flow hedges and states them at fair value.

The consolidated entity’s Euro denominated bank loan was designated as a hedge of the consolidated entity’s investment in its subsidiary in 
the Netherlands.

87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

market risk (continued)

b)  Foreign currency risk (continued)

(i)  Exposure to currency risk 

In thousands of AUD equivalent 

AUD 

USD 

NZD 

EUR 

HKD 

UKP 

yEN

2008 

Trade receivables 

Trade payables 

Cash 

Gross balance sheet exposure 

Estimated forecast sales 

Estimated forecast purchases 

Gross exposure 

Forward exchange contracts 

Net exposure 30 June 2008 

– 

– 

3,246 

(2,301) 

6,658 

6,658 

334 

1,279 

– 

– 

– 

– 

196 

(162) 

61 

95 

300 

(12) 

1 

289 

– 

– 

– 

– 

13,747 

– 

(45,808) 

–  (5,092) 

(45,808) 

13,747  (5,092) 

– 

22,092 

(2,195) 

2,442 

– 

– 

– 

– 

2 

(21) 

– 

(19) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

6,658 

(22,437) 

11,552  (2,555) 

289 

(19) 

–

–

–

–

–

(842)

(842)

883

41

Foreign exchange rates at balance date 

  1.0000 

0.9626 

1.2609  0.6096 

7.5091 

0.4829 

101.93

2009 

Trade receivables 

Trade payables 

Cash 

Gross balance sheet exposure 

Estimated forecast sales 

Estimated forecast purchases 

Gross exposure 

Forward exchange contracts 

Net exposure 30 June 2009 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1,457 

(1,065) 

93 

485 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1,400 

1,528 

(191) 

51 

(26) 

399 

1,260 

1,901 

7,231 

10,549  17,825 

(66,101) 

(4,624) (20,501) 

(58,870) 

5,925  (2,676) 

16,330 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(42,055) 

5,925  (1,416) 

1,901 

3 

(1) 

– 

2 

– 

– 

– 

– 

2 

–

–

–

–

–

(3,472)

(3,472)

–

(3,472)

Foreign exchange rates at balance date 

  1.0000 

0.8114 

1.2428  0.5751 

6.2884 

0.4872 

77.76

(ii)  Sensitivity analysis

The impact of exchange rate movements on profit is subject to other variables including competitor exchange rate positions and movement in market 
prices. The impact of exchange rate movements on equity is not material.

88

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

Fair values

The fair values of financial assets and liabilities, together with the carrying amounts shown in the balance sheet are as follows:

Consolidated 

In thousands of AUD 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Trade and other receivables 

Interest rate swaps: 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Commodity contracts: 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Forward exchange contracts: 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Unsecured bank loans 

Carrying 
amount 

2009 

Fair 
value  

2009 

Carrying 
amount 

2008 

Fair 
value

2008

45,015 

45,015 

53,418 

53,418

116,963 

116,963 

109,006 

109,006

– 

– 

1,587 

1,587

(1,839) 

(1,839) 

13,819 

13,819 

(12,280) 

(12,280) 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

16,442 

16,442 

26,285 

26,285

(16,943) 

(16,943) 

(27,592) 

(27,592)

(200,000) 

(200,000) 

(246,975) 

(246,975)

Trade payables and accrued expenses 

(63,754) 

(63,754) 

(53,700) 

(53,700)

The Company 

In thousands of AUD 

Trade and other receivables 

Payables to controlled entities 

(102,577) 

(102,577) 

(137,971) 

(137,971)

Carrying 
amount 

2009 

Fair 
value  

2009 

Carrying 
amount 

2008 

Fair 
value

2008

704,327 

704,327 

663,776 

663,776

(597,077) 

(597,077) 

(583,654) 

(583,654)

Trade payables and accrued expenses 

(57) 

(57) 

(54) 

(54)

107,193 

107,193 

80,068 

80,068

89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

26.  Financial instruments and Financial risk manaGement (continued)

Estimation of fair values

The following summarises the major methods and assumptions used in estimating the fair values of financial instruments reflected in the table.

(i)  Derivatives

Forward exchange contracts are marked to market by discounting the contractual forward price and deducting the current spot rate. Commodity 
contracts are marked to market by discounting the contractual forward price and deducting the current commodity spot price. For interest rate swaps 
broker quotes are obtained. These quotes are back tested using discounted cash flow techniques. Where discounted cash flow techniques are used, 
estimated future cash flows are based on management’s best estimates and the discount rate is a market related rate for a similar instrument at the 
balance sheet date. Where other pricing models are used, inputs are based on market related data at the balance sheet date.

(ii)  Interest–bearing loans and borrowings

The notional amount of the interest–bearing loans is deemed to reflect the fair value. The interest–bearing loans have a maximum three–year 
rolling maturity. 

(iii) Trade and other receivables / payables

All receivables / payables are either repayable within twelve months or repayable on demand. Accordingly, the notional amount is deemed to reflect the 
fair value.

(iv) Employee share loans and other employee loans

Employee share loans and other employee loans are carried at fair value using discounted cash flow techniques.

(v)  Interest rates used for determining fair value

The entity uses the government yield curve as of 30 June 2009 plus an adequate constant credit spread to discount financial instruments. The interest 
rates used are as follows:

Derivatives 

2009 

2008

3.19% – 4.84% 

7.77% – 7.82%

Employee share loans and other loans 

5.85% – 8.05% 

7.30% – 7.55%

Interest bearing loans and borrowings 

5.01% – 5.26% 

5.40% – 8.31%

27.  operatinG leases

Leases as lessee

Non–cancellable operating lease rentals are payable as follows: 

In thousands of AUD 

Less than one year 

Between one and five years 

More than five years 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

13,416 

10,127 

29,494 

28,014 

2,967 

4,317 

45,877 

42,458 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

The consolidated entity leases a warehouse and factory facilities and motor vehicles under operating leases. The warehouse and facility leases typically 
run for a period of 3 to 5 years, with an option to renew the lease after that date.  None of the leases include contingent rentals.

90

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

27.  operatinG leases (continued)

Leases as lessee (continued)

One of the leased properties has been sublet by the consolidated entity. The lease and sublease expire in November 2009. Sublease payments of 

$95,000 will be received during the following financial year.

During the financial year ended 30 June 2009, $11,407,000 (2008: $10,473,000) was recognised as an expense in the income statement in respect 

of operating leases, which was net of sub–lease income.

28.  capital and other commitments 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

In thousands of AUD 

Capital expenditure commitments 

Plant and equipment 

Contracted but not provided for and payable: 

Within one year 

29.  continGencies

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

4,401 

3,152 

– 

–

The directors are of the opinion that provisions are not required in respect of these matters, as it is not probable that a future sacrifice of economic 

benefits will be required or the amount is not capable of reliable measurement.

In thousands of AUD 

Contingent liabilities not considered remote 

In previous financial years, the Company investigated and reported two  
environmental contamination issues at factory sites at Eagle Farm,  
Queensland and Revesby, NSW. Both sites are leased and occupied  
by wholly owned subsidiaries of the ultimate parent entity,  
GWA International Limited.

The costs to remediate the Eagle Farm site have been provided in the 
financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2009. The costs to 
remediate the Revesby site have been fully provided in prior years. 

Contingent liabilities considered remote 

Guarantees 

(i) Under the terms of a Deed of Cross Guarantee, described in note 30, 
the Company has guaranteed the repayment of all current and future 
creditors in the event any of the entities party to the Deed is wound up. 
No deficiency in net assets exists in these companies at reporting date. 

(ii) Bank guarantees 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1,404 

3,865 

– 

– 

–

–

–

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

30.  deed oF cross Guarantee

Pursuant to ASIC Class Order 98/1418 (as amended) dated 13 August 1998, the wholly-owned subsidiaries as listed in Note 31 are relieved from the 
Corporations Act 2001 requirements for preparation, audit and lodgement of financial reports, and directors’ report.

It is a condition of the Class Order that the Company and each of the subsidiaries enter into a Deed of Cross Guarantee. The effect of the Deed is that 
the Company guarantees to each creditor payment in full of any debt in the event of winding up of any of the subsidiaries under certain provisions of the 
Corporations Act 2001. If a winding up occurs under other provisions of the Act, the Company will only be liable in the event that after six months any 
creditor has not been paid in full.  The subsidiaries have also given similar guarantees in the event that the Company is wound up.

A consolidated income statement and consolidated balance sheet, comprising the Company and controlled entities which are a party to the Deed, after 
eliminating all transactions between parties to the Deed of Cross Guarantee, at 30 June 2009, is set out below.

Summerised income statement and retained profits 

In thousands of AUD 

Profit before tax  

Income tax expense  

Profit after tax 

Retained profits at beginning of year 

Dividends recognised during the year 

Retained profits at end of year 

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

2008

68,446 

69,138

(20,396) 

(20,337)

48,050 

48,801

14,752 

27,563

(49,245) 

(61,612)

13,557 

14,752

92

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

30.  deed oF cross Guarantee (continued)

Balance sheet 

In thousands of AUD 

Assets 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Trade and other receivables 

Inventories 

Other 

Total current assets 

Receivables 

Intercompany receivables 

Investments 

Deferred tax assets 

Property, plant and equipment 

Intangible assets 

Other 

Total non–current assets 

Total assets 

Liabilities 

Trade and other payables 

Income tax payable 

Employee benefits 

Provisions 

Total current liabilities 

Trade and other payables 

Interest–bearing loans and borrowings 

Employee benefits 

Provisions 

Total non–current liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Equity 

Issued capital 

Reserves 

Retained earnings 

Total equity 

CONSOLIDATED

2009 

2008

37,979 

33,700

126,447 

121,355

99,729 

92,807

3,052 

4,358

267,207 

252,220

12,185 

5,298

25,729 

55,493

22,973 

12,212

22,516 

22,553

63,040 

70,101

334,206 

324,640

2,894 

3,770

483,543 

494,067

750,750 

746,287

85,063 

77,336

7,211 

5,948

12,953 

15,537

19,473 

16,982

124,700 

115,803

5,585 

–

200,000 

246,975

11,091 

10,514

8,864 

7,812

225,540 

265,301

350,240 

381,104

400,510 

365,183

387,981 

353,938

(1,028) 

(3,507)

13,557 

14,752

400,510 

365,183

93

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

31.  consolidated entities 

Parent entity 
GWA International Limited 
Subsidiaries 
GWA Group Limited 
Gainsborough Hardware Industries Limited 
Caroma Holdings Limited 
GWA (North America) Pty Ltd 
Caroma Industries Limited 
G Subs Pty Ltd 
Sebel Furniture (Hong Kong) Ltd 
GWA Trading (Shanghai) Co Ltd 
GWA International (Hong Kong) Limited (liquidated) 
Stylus Pty Ltd 
Ecohome Pty Ltd 
Fowler Manufacturing Pty Ltd 
Starion Tapware Pty Ltd 
Dorf Clark Industries Ltd 
Dorf Industries (NZ) Ltd 
McIlwraith Davey Pty Ltd 
Caroma Industries Europe BV 
Wisa Beheer BV 
Wisa BV 
Wisa Systems BV 
Wisa GmbH 
Stokis Kon Fav. Van Metaalwerken NV 
Caroma International Pty Ltd 
Caroma USA Inc 
Canereb Pty Ltd 
Dux Manufacturing Limited 
GWA Taps Manufacturing Limited 
Lake Nakara Pty Ltd 
Warapave Pty Ltd 
Rover Mowers (NZ) Limited 
Caroma Industries (NZ) Limited 
GWAIL (NZ) Ltd 
Rover Mowers Limited 
Industrial Mowers (Australia) Limited 
Olliveri Pty Ltd 
Sebel Service & Installations Pty Ltd 
Sebel Properties Pty Ltd 
Austral Lock Pty Ltd (acquired) 

94

Parties 
to cross 
guarantee 

 Country of  

 incorporation        Ownership interest

2009 

2008

Y 

Y 
Y 
Y 
Y 
Y 
Y 
N 
N 
N 
Y 
Y 
Y 
Y 
Y 
N 
Y 
N 
N 
N 
N 
N 
N 
Y 
N 
N 
Y 
Y 
N 
N 
N 
N 
N 
Y 
Y 
Y 
Y 
Y 
Y 

Australia 

Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Hong Kong 
China 
Hong Kong 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
New Zealand 
Australia 
Netherlands 
Netherlands 
Netherlands 
Netherlands 
Germany 
Netherlands 
Australia 
USA 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
New Zealand 
New Zealand 
New Zealand 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 
Australia 

100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
– 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
–

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

31.  consolidated entities (continued) 

Subsidiaries (continued) 

Sebel Furniture Limited (NZ) 

Sebel Furniture Limited 

Sebel Furniture (SEA) Pte Ltd (liquidated) 

Sebel Sales Pty Limited 

Caroma Singapore Pte Limited (liquidated) 

GWA Finance Pty Limited 

Hetset (No. 5) Pty Ltd 

Bankstown Unit Trust 

Parties 
to cross 
guarantee 

 Country of  

 incorporation        Ownership interest

2009 

2008

N 

Y 

N 

Y 

N 

Y 

Y 

N 

New Zealand 

100% 

Australia 

100% 

Singapore 

– 

Australia 

100% 

Singapore 

– 

Australia 

100% 

Australia 

100% 

Australia 

100% 

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

32.  reconciliation oF cash FloWs From operatinG activities

In thousands of AUD 

Cash flows from operating activities 

Profit for the period 

Adjustments for: 

Depreciation 

Amortisation 

Share–based payments 

Impairment losses 

Foreign exchange (gains)/losses 

Interest expense/(income) 

Dividends from controlled entities 

Distributions from controlled trusts 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

48,325 

45,890 

39,335 

62,641

16,789 

1,316 

650 

– 

17,386 

534 

– 

9,419 

(1,183) 

(1,971) 

13,844 

14,623 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

650 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

(40,000) 

(65,000)

– 

– 

(3) 

(18) 

2,359

–

–

–

(Gain)/loss on sale of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets 

(113) 

(6,879) 

Income tax expense 

Operating profit before changes in working capital and provisions 

20,690 

22,065 

100,318 

101,067 

(Increase)/decrease in trade and other receivables 

(19,114) 

(8,095) 

(40,541) 

(64,208)

(Increase)/decrease in inventories 

Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables 

Increase/(decrease) in provisions and employee benefits 

Interest received/(paid) 

Income taxes paid 

Net cash from operating activities 

(1,264) 

28,942 

1,677 

20,703 

12,378 

5,422 

– 

–

80,551 

126,849

– 

–

110,559 

131,475 

39,992 

62,641

(12,781) 

(14,204) 

– 

–

(19,150) 

(14,279) 

(18,559) 

(12,505)

78,628 

102,992 

21,433 

50,136

95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

33.  related parties

Key management personnel compensation

The key management personnel compensation included in ‘personnel expenses’ (see note 5) are as follows:

In AUD 

Short–term employee benefits 

Post–employment benefits 

Share–based payments 

Termination benefits 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

2008 

2009 

2008

6,008,604 

5,622,928 

1,014,097 

910,634 

439,122 

– 

710,000 

500,000 

8,171,823 

7,033,562 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

Individual directors and executives compensation disclosures

Information regarding individual directors and executives compensation is provided in the remuneration report section of the director’s report.  

Apart from the details disclosed in this note, no director has entered into a material contract with the consolidated entity since the end of the previous 
financial year and there were no material contracts involving directors’ interests existing at year end.

Loans to key management personnel and their related parties (consolidated)

 Details regarding loans outstanding at the reporting date to key management personnel and their related parties, where the individual’s aggregate loan 
balance exceeded $100,000 at any time in the reporting period, are as follows:

In AUD  

Directors 

P Crowley 

R Thornton  

Executives 

S Wright 

A Rusten 

W Saxelby 

L Patterson 

Balance  

Balance 

Interest paid 
and payable in 

Highest 
 balance 

1 July 2008   30 June 2009   the reporting period   in period 

 1,721,250 

1,590,000 

  298,996 

281,496 

  427,332 

– 

  792,540 

740,040 

  886,100 

833,600 

  959,991 

907,491 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1,721,250

298,996

427,332

792,540

886,100

959,991

 No loans were made to key management personnel or their related parties during the year (2008: $1,227,467).  The loans made in the prior financial 
year related to the Employee Share Plan.

96

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

33.  related parties (continued)

Loans to key management personnel and their related parties (consolidated) (continued)

Details regarding the aggregate of loans made, guaranteed or secured by any entity in the consolidated entity to key management personnel and their 
related parties, and the number of individuals in each group, are as follows:

In AUD  

Total for key management personnel 2009* 

Total for key management personnel 2008 

Opening  

Balance  

Closing 

Interest paid 
and payable in 

Number in 
 group at 

Balance  

the reporting period   30 June

 5,086,209 

4,352,627 

 5,830,110 

4,787,213 

– 

– 

6

5

 *The 2009 opening balance differs to the 2008 closing balance due to the appointment of Richard Thornton as Director on 6 May 2009.

 The Employee Share Plan loans are interest free and repayable over 15 years or earlier in certain circumstances. Dividends paid on the shares 
acquired under the Plan are applied against the balance of the loan outstanding.

Other key management personnel transactions with the Company or its controlled entities

The consolidated entity purchased components and tooling of $214,331 (2008: $282,731) from Great Western Corporation Pty Ltd, a company of 
which Mr B Thornton is a director. Amounts were billed based on normal market rates for such supplies and were due and payable under normal 
payment terms. The consolidated entity incurred legal fees of $380,343 (2008: n/a) from Clayton Utz Lawyers, a legal firm of which Mr D McDonough 
is an equity partner. Amounts were billed based on normal market rates for such supplies and were due and payable under normal payment terms.  
Amounts receivable from and payable to key management personnel at reporting date arising from these transactions were as follows:

In AUD 

Trade creditors 

CONSOLIDATED 

THE COmPANy

2009 

67 

2008 

2009 

2008

– 

– 

–

From time to time, key management personnel of the Company or its controlled entities, or their related entities, may purchase goods from the 
consolidated entity.  These purchases are on the same terms and conditions as those entered into by other consolidated entity employees or customers 
and are trivial or domestic in nature.

97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

33.  related parties (continued)

movements in shares

The movement during the reporting period in the number of ordinary shares in GWA International Limited held, directly, indirectly or beneficially, by 
each key management person, including their related parties, is as follows:

Directors: non–executive 

B Thornton 

J Kennedy 

M Kriewaldt (Retired 30 October 2008) 

D Barry 

R Anderson 

G McGrath 

W Bartlett 

D McDonough (Appointed 16 February 2009) 

Executive directors 

P Crowley 

R Thornton (Appointed 6 May 2009) 

Executives 

S Wright (Ceased employment 18 July 2008) 

A Rusten 

G Oliver 

W Saxelby 

L Patterson 

Held at  
1 July 2008 

Purchases 

Held at 
Sales  30 June 2009

  16,186,722 

1,263,228 

101,000 

100,000 

– 

– 

  12,386,119 

  28,890,832 

517,415 

895,363 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

17,449,950

101,000

n/a

12,903,534

29,786,195

300,000 

5,000 

n/a 

750,000 

n/a 

268,750 

300,000 

156,250 

300,000 

300,000 

–  (150,000) 

150,000

10,425 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

13,280 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

15,425

83,635

750,000

111,935

n/a

300,000

169,530

300,000

300,000

The relevant interest of each director in the share capital of the Company as notified by the directors’ to the Australian Securities Exchange in 
accordance with Section 205G(1) of the Corporations Act 2001 as at 30 June 2009 is listed in the Directors’ Report.

Directors: non–executive 

B Thornton 

J Kennedy 

M Kriewaldt 

D Barry 

R Anderson 

G McGrath 

W Bartlett (Appointed 21 February 2007) 

Executive directors 

P Crowley 

Executives 

S Wright 

A Rusten 

G Oliver 

W Saxelby 

L Patterson 

Held at  
1 July 2007 

Purchases 

Held at 
Sales  30 June 2008

  15,073,902 

1,112,820 

1,000 

100,000 

  12,355,889 

  28,890,832 

300,000 

n/a 

100,000 

– 

30,230 

– 

– 

– 

500,000 

250,000 

268,750 

300,000 

156,250 

– 

– 

– 

– 

300,000 

300,000 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

16,186,722

101,000

100,000

12,386,119

28,890,832

300,000

5,000

750,000

268,750

300,000

156,250

300,000

300,000 

No shares were granted to key management personnel during the reporting period as compensation. The aggregate number of shares held by key 
management personnel or their related parties at 30 June 2009 was 62,421,204 (2008: 60,044,673).

98

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

notes to the consolidated 
Financial statements

33.  related parties (continued)

Subsidiaries

Loans are made by the Company to its wholly owned subsidiaries. The loans have no fixed date of repayment and are non-interest bearing.

Loans are made by wholly owned subsidiaries to other wholly owned subsidiaries. These loans are categorised as funding or trading depending on the 
nature of transactions.

The funding loans represent funding for tax, capital expenditure and initial investment transactions. Where the funding loans are for tax or capital 
expenditure and are also between different countries, interest is charged on these loans at market rates. Where the funding loans are in relation to initial 
investment transactions, these loans are considered part of the net investment in the wholly owned foreign subsidiary and accordingly these loans have no 
fixed date of repayment and are non-interest bearing. All other funding loans have no fixed date of repayment and are non-interest bearing.

Trading transactions between wholly owned subsidiaries are generally transacted on 30 day credit terms.

34.  suBsequent events

To management’s best knowledge, there are no events that have arisen subsequent to 30 June 2009 that will, or may, significantly affect the operation 
or results of the consolidated entity.

99

 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

directors’ declaration

1.  In the opinion of the directors of GWA International Limited (‘the Company’):

(a)   the financial statements and notes, and the Remuneration Report in the Directors’ Report, are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, 

including:

(i)   giving a true and fair view of the financial position of the Company and the consolidated entity as at 30 June 2009 and of their performance, as 

represented by the results of their operations and their cash flows, for the financial year ended on that date; and

(ii)  complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and

(b)  there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

2.   There are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company and the controlled entities identified in Note 30 will be able to meet any obligations 
or liabilities to which they are or may become subject to by virtue of the Deed of Cross Guarantee between the Company and those controlled 
entities pursuant to ASIC Class Order 98/1418.

3.   The directors have been given the declarations by the Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer for the financial year ended 30 June 2009 

pursuant to Section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001.

Dated at Brisbane on 18 August 2009.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors:

B Thornton 
Director 

 P C Crowley 
 Director

lead auditor’s independence declaration under section 
307c oF the corporations act 2001

To the Directors of GWA International Limited:

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit for the financial year ended 30 June 2009 there have been:

(i)  no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and 
(ii)  no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

KPmG 
Sydney, 18 August 2009 

mark Epper 
Partner

100

 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

independent auditor’s report 
to the memBers oF GWa international limited

report on the Financial reports

We have audited the accompanying financial report of GWA International Limited (the ‘Company’), which comprises the balance sheets as at 30 
June 2009, and the income statements, statements of recognised income and expense and cash flow statements for the year ended on that date, a 
summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes 1 to 34 and the directors’ declaration of the consolidated entity comprising the 
Company and the entities it controlled at the year’s end or from time to time during the financial year. 

Directors’ responsibility for the financial report  
The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with Australian Accounting 
Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Act 2001. This responsibility includes establishing and 
maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due 
to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances. 
In note 1(a), the directors also state, in accordance with Australian Accounting Standard AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements, that the 
financial report of the consolidated entity, comprising the financial statements and notes, complies with International Financial Reporting Standards. 

Auditor’s responsibility 
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing 
Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform 
the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement. 

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected 
depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud 
or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the 
financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the 
effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness 
of accounting estimates made by the directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report. 

We performed the procedures to assess whether in all material respects the financial report presents fairly, in accordance with the Corporations Act 
2001 and Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations), a view which is consistent with our understanding of 
the Company’s and the consolidated entity’s financial position and of their performance. 

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. 

Auditor’s opinion

In our opinion:

(a)  the financial report of GWA International Limited  is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:  

(i)     giving a true and fair view of the Company’s and the consolidated entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2009 and of their performance for the 

year ended on that date; and 

(ii)  complying with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Regulations 2001.

(b)  the financial report also complies with International Financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in note 1(a). 

Report on the Remuneration Report 
We have audited the Remuneration Report as included in the directors’ report for the year ended 30 June 2009. The directors of the Company are 
responsible for the preparation and presentation of the Remuneration Report in accordance with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our 
responsibility is to express an opinion on the Remuneration Report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards.

Auditor’s opinion 
In our opinion, the remuneration report of GWA International Limited  for the year ended 30 June 2009, complies with Section 300A of the 
Corporations Act 2001.

KPmG 
Sydney, 18 August 2009 

mark Epper 
Partner 

101

 
 
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

other statutory inFormation
as at 17 august 2009

statement oF shareholdinG
In accordance with the Australian Securities Exchange Listing Rules, the directors state that, as at 17 August 2009, the share capital in the 
Company was held as follows:-

Range 

1 - 1,000 

1,001 - 5,000 

5,001 - 10,000 

10,001 - 100,000 

100,001 and over 

Total 

  Ordinary Shareholders 

Ordinary Shares 

1,920 

6,503 

3,194 

2,163 

129 

1,058,920 

19,259,506 

24,020,432 

%

0.36

6.46

8.06

46,013,128    

15.44

207,666,866 

69.68

13,909 

298,018,852 

100

The number of shareholders with less than a marketable parcel of 174 shares is 325.

votinG riGhts
The voting rights attached to shares are as set out in clause 9.20 of the Company’s Constitution.  Subject to that clause, at General Meetings of the 
Company:

1.  On a show of hands, every person present as a member, proxy, attorney or representative of a member has one vote;  and

2.  On a poll, every person present as a member, proxy, attorney or representative of a member, has one vote for each fully paid share.

suBstantial shareholders
The following information is extracted from the Company’s Register of Substantial Shareholders as at 17 August 2009:

Shareholder 

HGT Investments Pty Ltd  

 Number of Shares 

 % of Shares on Issue

  15,784,678  

5.30         

102

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

other statutory inFormation
as at 17 august 2009

20 larGest shareholders as at 17 august 2009
Shareholder 

Number of Shares 

% Shares on Issue

NATIONAL NOMINEES LIMITED  

J P MORGAN NOMINEES AUSTRALIA    

HGT INVESTMENTS PTY LTD  

KFA INVESTMENTS PTY LTD     

ERAND PTY LTD  

JMB INVESTMENTS PTY LTD     

RBC DEXIA INVESTOR SERVICES  

HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES  

ASHBERG PTY LTD     

THEME (NO 3) PTY LTD   

CJZ INVESTMENTS PTY LTD   

18,753,896   

16,206,726    

15,784,678  

 10,864,945   

9,898,229     

 9,186,434    

  8,897,629   

8,727,554     

6.29      

5.44                      

 5.30                               

3.65                               

3.32                                          

 3.08                            

 2.99                            

2.93                                         

8,418,442          

2.82                                    

7,843,226      

2.63                                    

7,016,832  

2.35                                        

AUSTRALIAN FOUNDATION INVESTMENT COMPANY LIMITED  

6,681,130          

2.24                                 

CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED  

ITA INVESTMENTS PTY LTD    

CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 

DABARY INVESTMENTS PTY LTD      

5,372,931  

1.80                                    

 5,152,338       

 1.73                            

 5,069,218   

3,553,830   

1.70                                 

 1.19                        

MR PETER ZINN & MRS CAROL JOAN ZINN (CAROL ZINN FAMILY NO 2 A/C)    

3,353,740   

1.13                                      

HARVEST HOME HOLDINGS PTY LTD 

 2,586,416    

0.87                              

ANZ NOMINEES LIMITED 

AMP LIFE LIMITED 

Total   

 2,496,205 

 2,319,688  

 158,184,087  

  0.84                                             

0.78   

46.92

103

    
GWa international limited     2009 ANNUAL REPORT

GWa international limited and its controlled entities 
ABN 15 055 964 380

shareholder inFormation

annual General meetinG
The Annual General Meeting of GWA International Limited will be held 
in The Grand Ballroom, Stamford Plaza Brisbane, Cnr Edward and 
Margaret Streets Brisbane on Thursday 29 October 2009 commencing 
at 10:30 am. Shareholders will be mailed their Notice of Annual 
General Meeting and Proxy Form during September 2009.

shareholder enquiries
Shareholders with enquiries about their shareholding or dividend 
payments should contact the Company’s share registry, Computershare 
Investor Services Pty Limited, on 1300 552 270 or write to GPO Box 
523 Brisbane Queensland Australia 4001. Alternatively, you can view 
details of your holding or make changes to your personal information 
online at www.computershare.com.au.

dividend reinvestment plan
The Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP) was re-introduced by the 
Board on 19 August 2008. The DRP rules can be found on the 
Company’s website.

To participate in the DRP, shareholders must complete an election form 
which can be obtained from the Company’s share registry or online at 
www.computershare.com.au.

stock eXchanGe listinG
The Company’s shares are listed on the Australian Securities Exchange 
under the ASX code: GWT. Details of the trading activity of the 
Company’s shares are published in most daily newspapers, generally 
under the abbreviation GWA Intl.

chanGe oF address
Shareholders who have changed their address should immediately 
notify the Company’s share registry in writing or online at www.
computershare.com.au.

consolidation oF shareholdinGs
Shareholders who wish to consolidate their separate shareholdings into 
one holding should notify the Company’s share registry in writing.

annual reports
Annual Reports are made available to shareholders on the Company’s 
website. Shareholders wishing to be mailed a copy of the Annual 
Report should notify the Company’s share registry in writing or online at 
www.computershare.com.au. Shareholders will be mailed the Notice of 
Annual General Meeting and Proxy Form which will include details on 
accessing the online Annual Report.

dividends
Dividends are determined by the Board, having regard to the financial 
circumstances of the Company. Dividends are normally paid in April 
and October each year following the release of the Company’s half year 
and full year results to the market. The latest dividend details can be 
found on the Company’s website.

direct credit oF dividends
Dividends may be paid directly to a bank, building society or credit 
union account in Australia. Payments are electronically credited 
on the dividend payment date and confirmed by an advice mailed 
to shareholders on that date, or emailed where shareholders have 
requested this form of communication.

To ensure the timely receipt of dividends, the Company encourages 
shareholders to provide direct credit instructions. Direct credit 
application forms can be obtained from the Company’s share registry 
or online at www.computershare.com.au.

shareholder timetaBle 2009 

30 JUNE 
Financial year end

18 AUGUST 
Year end result and final dividend announcement

14 SEPTEmBER 
Ex dividend date for final dividend

18 SEPTEmBER  
Record date for determining final dividend entitlement

25 SEPTEmBER 
Notice of Annual General Meeting and Proxy Form mailed 
to shareholders

7 OCTOBER 
Final ordinary dividend paid

27 OCTOBER 
Proxy returns close 10:30 am Brisbane

29 OCTOBER 
Annual General Meeting

31 DECEmBER 
Half year end

104

CONTENTS

Performance Summary  

Company Profile and Mission Statement 

Chairman’s Review  

Managing Director’s Review of Operations  

Health and Safety  

In the Community 

Business Divisions  

GWA Sustainability and Innovation Story  

Board of Directors  

 Corporate Governance Statement  

Directors’ Report  

Financial Statements  

Other Statutory Information  

Shareholder Information and Timetable  

1

2

4

6

10

12 

14

19

30

32

39

48

102

104

HEAD OFFICE LOCATIONS

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
Level 14 10 Market Street  
Brisbane  QLD 4000
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 7 3109 6000
Facsimile:  61 7 3236 0522
Website:    www.gwail.com.au 

CAROMA DORF
4 Ray Road   
Epping  NSW 2121
AUSTRALIA
Telephone:  61 2 9202 7000
Facsimile:   61 2 9869 0625
Websites:   www.caroma.com.au

www.fowler.com.au
www.stylus.com.au
www.starion-industries.com
www.dorf.com.au
www.clark.com.au 
www.irwell.com.au
www.radiantstainless.com.au
www.ecologicalsolutions.com 

Dux MANuFACTuRING LIMITED
Lackey Road  
Moss Vale  NSW 2577
AUSTRALIA
Telephone:  61 2 4868 0200
Facsimile:   61 2 4868 2014
Websites:   www.dux.com.au
                  www.ecosmart.com.au

www.hotwaterrebate.com.au 

CORPORATE DIRECTORy 

DIRECTORS
B Thornton, Chairman
J J Kennedy, Deputy Chairman
P C Crowley, Managing Director
D R Barry, Non-Executive Director
R M Anderson, Non-Executive Director
G J McGrath, Non-Executive Director
W J Bartlett, Non-Executive Director
D D McDonough, Non-Executive Director
R J Thornton, Executive Director

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
W R Saxelby, FCPA GAICD

COMPANy SECRETARy
R J Thornton, CA B Com (Acc) LLB (Hons) LLM 

REGISTERED OFFICE
Level 14, 10 Market Street
Brisbane QLD 4000
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 7 3109 6000
Facsimile:  61 7 3236 0522
Website:    www.gwail.com.au
ASX code: GWT

GAINSBOROuGH HARDWARE 
INDuSTRIES LIMITED
31-33 Alfred Street  
Blackburn  VIC 3130
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 3 9877 1555
Facsimile:  61 3 9894 1599
Website:    www.gainsboroughhardware.com.au

www.ausloc.com

ROvER MOWERS LIMITED 
155 Fison Avenue West 
Eagle Farm  QLD 4009
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 7 3213 0222
Facsimile:  61 7 3868 1010
Website:    www.rovermowers.com.au 

SEBEL FuRNITuRE LIMITED 
92 Gow Street  
Padstow  NSW 2211
AUSTRALIA
Telephone  61 2 9780 2222
Facsimile   61 2 9793 3152
Website:    www.sebel.com.au

WISA Bv
Driepoortenweg 5  
6827 BP Arnhem
NETHERLANDS
Telephone +31 (0) 26 362 9020
Facsimile  +31 (0) 26 363 5480
Website:    www.wisa-sanitair.com

AuDITOR
KPMG
10 Shelley Street
Sydney NSW 2000
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 61 2 9335 7000
Facsimile:  61 2 9335 7001

SHARE REGISTRy
Computershare Investor Services Pty Ltd
Level 19, 307 Queen Street
Brisbane QLD 4000
AUSTRALIA

GPO Box 523
Brisbane  QLD 4001
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 1300 552 270
Facsimile:  61 7 3237 2152
Website:    www.computershare.com.au

GROuP BANkERS
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
HSBC Bank Australia Limited
National Australia Bank
Westpac Banking Corporation

Printed using Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper. All 
paper sourced from responsibly managed plantation forests. ISO14001 
environmental management system in use.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Level 14 10 Market Street Brisbane Queensland 4000 Australia
Telephone: 61 7 3109 6000  Facsimile: 61 7 3236 0522
Website: www.gwail.com.au

GWA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED

2009 ANNUAL REPORT