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HT&E Limited

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FY2018 Annual Report · HT&E Limited
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2018
Annual 
Report

HT&E LIMITED 
ABN 95 008 637 643

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In this report

About HT&E    01
Chairman’s Report    02
Chief Executive Officer’s Report    04
Operating & Financial Review    06
Corporate Social Responsibility    12
Board of Directors    14
Senior Management Team    16
Corporate Governance Statement    18
Directors’ Report    18
Remuneration Report    24
Auditor’s Independence Declaration    43
Consolidated Financial Statements    44
Directors’ Declaration    104
Independent Auditor’s Report    105
Shareholder Information    111
Five Year Financial History    114
Corporate Directory    115

HT&E Limited (HT&E) is one of Australia’s 
leading radio and audio businesses. Our audio 
brands are some of the most recognised in 
the country, and each week entertain and 
engage more than five million Australians.

In September 2018, HT&E completed the sale 
of Adshel to oOh!media for $570 million. 
The sale delivered compelling value for HT&E 
shareholders in a consolidating out of home 
industry and represented significant value 
uplift of over $340 million, compared to 
HT&E’s approximate $230 million net cash 
investment in Adshel.

HT&E’s strong balance sheet, together with 
ARN and a number of emerging digital 
investments, means we are one of the most 
exciting media businesses in Australia today.

ANNUAL REPORT 2018 1

HT&E owns one of 
Australia’s leading 
national metropolitan 
radio networks and a 
number of emerging 
media investments.

7% 

Group EBITDA

$128.4m

Net cash at 31 December 2018, 
compared to $115 million in net 
debt at 31 December 2017 

79cps

  In fully franked dividends paid 
during 2018

  A further 4 cents per share has 
been declared and will be paid 
in March 2019

Gfinity Esports Australia launched its Elite Series 
during 2018, delivering to more than 9 million 
viewers in its first year. Unbnd, a virtual and 
augmented reality media business owned 50% 
by HT&E, made significant progress developing 
its platform, which we expect to launch early in 
2019. Soprano managed more than three billion 
mobile interactions in 14 countries.

ARN achieved its best ever ratings in 2018 
after launching a number of new breakfast 
shows and a national drive show, and achieved 
revenue growth in line with market. The softer 
radio market in late 2018 contained overall 
results for the year, and careful management of 
costs aims to ensure the business is efficiently 
positioned for 2019. By year end, Conversant 
Media (Conversant) had fully integrated into 
ARN, producing cost savings and positioning 
Conversant for better results in 2019.

Adshel was making significant inroads into 
reinstating its national digital network at the time 
it was sold to oOh!media for $570 million. The 
sale was completed in September and proceeds 
were used to repay debt, pay a fully franked 
special dividend of 72 cents per HT&E share and 
commence an on-market share buyback.

The Cody out of home business in Hong Kong 
delivered a strong result, returning to profitability 
for the first time since 2015.

2

Chairman’s  
Report

HT&E is well positioned as 
strategic focus turns to our core 
Australian radio and audio assets

I am delighted to be addressing you as the new 
Chairman of HT&E – a business that I believe is one of 
the most exciting media companies in Australia today.

2018 has been a truly transformative year for HT&E 
with the sale of Adshel to oOh!media for $570 million 
delivering a significant value outcome for shareholders, 
and has seen HT&E pivot to focus on its core Australian 
radio and audio assets.

The radio industry remains one of the more resilient 
sectors of Australian media – both from an audience 
engagement and an advertiser appetite perspective 
– and is expected to remain so for the foreseeable 
future. Collaboration across the sector is positive 
with constructive dialogue between operators 
ensuring ambitions are aligned for the overall 
benefit of the medium. 

Against this backdrop, we are determined to further 
drive strong performance and optimise our core 
business – Australian Radio Network (ARN). 

Our priority is to continue providing high quality, 
engaging content broadcast by talent that is known 
and loved, backed by effective promotion and 
monetisation, and of course, strict cost controls to 
ensure ARN is Australia’s leading radio network.

Solid performance
In 2018, HT&E’s financial performance was in line 
with expectations – a very pleasing result despite 
the distraction of the Adshel sale. A strong first 
half in radio was partially offset by a weaker radio 
advertising market in the last four months of the year. 
Adshel results were solid in the nine months prior to 
its disposal in September. Hong Kong Outdoor (Cody) 
delivered a profitable operating result for the first 
time since 2015. 

The sale of Adshel allows our senior management 
team to dedicate themselves to focusing on 
operational excellence of our core radio operations 
and we have embarked upon a program of 
restructuring to put in place the most capable people 
for the HT&E of today and tomorrow. Corporate cost 
reduction and simplification of our organisational 
structures also forms part of this program and will 
continue in 2019. 

Payment of dividends and share buyback 
Ordinary dividends of seven cents per share, 
fully franked, were paid during the year. A special 
dividend of 72 cents per share, fully franked, was 
paid in October following the Adshel sale completion 
in September.

In November, the Company commenced an on-market 
equal access buyback of up to 10 per cent of issued 
capital. 75 per cent of the buyback was completed 
before the blackout period came into effect from mid 
December 2018. We expect the buyback will complete 
in 2019 and will monitor the status as we approach the 
Annual General Meeting in May.

The Board has declared a fully franked dividend 
of 4 cents per share with an ex-dividend date 
of 22 February and payable on 15 March 2019. 
Combined with the interim dividend, this represents 
a payout of approximately 55 per cent of 2018 NPAT 
attributable to HT&E shareholders from continuing 
operations (before exceptional items). This is at the 
higher end of the company’s dividend policy of a 
40-60 per cent payout ratio.

Our balance sheet position is strong, with net cash of 
$128.4 million at 31 December 2018. 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 3

HT&E’s radio assets are 
highly profitable and 
cash generative. 

Board and management changes
2018 also saw changes and renewal at Board 
level. On behalf of shareholders, I would like to 
thank Peter Cullinane, Anne Templeman-Jones, 
Robert Kaye and Christine Holman for their 
respective contributions to HT&E. I would specifically 
like to acknowledge the 14 years of dedication 
from Peter Cosgrove, who retired as a Director and 
Chairman in June 2018, having overseen a significant 
restructure of the Group during his tenure. 

We are now reconstituting the Board with a team of 
highly-skilled Directors with the relevant skills and 
expertise to oversee the Company’s strategy, direction 
and culture going forward. I am very pleased with the 
Directors that have joined the Board so far and I look 
forward to introducing them to you at the upcoming 
Annual General Meeting in May 2019.

Australian Taxation Office dispute
A number of announcements were made during 
2018 with regards to the dispute with the Australian 
Taxation Office (ATO) pertaining to the New Zealand 
Branch matter, as previously disclosed. Amended 
assessments were received and objections have 
been lodged. In that regard, a deposit of $50.7 million 
was paid to the ATO during the year. The Company 
intends to fully pursue this matter, and we remain 
confident in our position. Final resolution of this 
matter could take several years.

The year ahead
HT&E is well positioned, strategically and financially, 
with its current businesses. 

HT&E’s radio assets are highly profitable and cash 
generative. We have a strong balance sheet and the 
experience and ability in the management team to 
execute our strategy.

Our ambition to create the future of audio 
entertainment will increasingly resonate with 
audiences and advertisers as digital platforms such 
as iHeartRadio grow in relevance and investments 
we are making in new technologies and data drive 
stronger results to better engage, influence and 
drive audience behaviour and client solutions.

Our management team, led by Ciaran Davis, have 
done a great job repositioning the business over 
the past few years and I thank them for their 
commitment.

On behalf of the Board, I would also like to thank our 
shareholders for their ongoing support and all HT&E 
employees for their commitment and dedication to 
the Company and I look forward to working with you 
in 2019 and beyond.

Hamish McLennan  
Chairman

4

Chief 
Executive 
Officer’s 
Report

HT&E operates one of Australia’s 
leading metropolitan radio 
networks, encompassing a 
comprehensive broadcast, digital, 
social and streaming suite of assets 
with a clear vision to create the 
future of audio entertainment. 

2018 financial result
2018 statutory revenue from continuing operations 
was up five per cent to $271.8 million, and EBITDA 
from continuing operations before exceptional items 
was up seven per cent to $71.8 million, largely in line 
with expectations. 

Net cash of $128.4 million gives HT&E one 
of the strongest balance sheets in the media 
sector, at a time of increasing ownership change 
and consolidation.

Since the sale of Adshel, the Company has 
commenced restructuring the organisation to take 
account of the portfolio of assets in the business. 
A program of corporate cost reduction is underway 
that will continue into 2019 to ensure we have a head 
office cost base in line with the size of the business.

Our businesses
Australian Radio Network (ARN)
ARN implemented a strategy focused on ratings 
growth and commercial success in 2018 and ended 
the year experiencing growth across a number of 
FM stations and Breakfast shows in the network, 
culminating with the highest ratings in the history 
of the Company.

Three new breakfast shows were launched on KIIS 
101.1 and GOLD 104.3 in Melbourne and 96FM in 
Perth, and a new national Drive show commenced 
across the KIIS network. 

Jase & PJ, Christian O’Connell, Paul & Lise and Will & 
Woody have joined our established on-air stars across 
the network, all collectively focused on driving listener 
engagement and delivering better value for clients.

We continue to engage with audiences to understand 
where we can improve our offering and are confident 
that 2019 will yield further ratings success. Our 
ambition remains to be the clear number one national 
network; we believe we have the talent to do that and 
we will continue to allocate resources to achieving 
this outcome.

Conversant Media was integrated into ARN in 
2018. ‘The Roar’ is now a dedicated content vertical 
within the ARN team that will deliver Australia’s 
largest user-generated sports content across audio, 
broadcast, social and digital platforms and provide 
new commercial opportunities.

Revenue for the year was up three per cent 
($6.1 million) in a market that grew 3.5 per cent. 
The market softened in the second half, delivering 
growth of 1.3 per cent after being up 5.9 per cent year 
on year in the first half. 

Costs for the year were up $4.8 million, driven by 
revenue related costs and the reinstatement of prior 
year marketing savings and investment in promoting 
and marketing of our new shows. 

Overall, EBITDA was up by $1.2 million, with the 
EBITDA margin maintained at 36 per cent. 

iHeartRadio continues to expand our ability to drive a 
broad range of audio content outside of radio to new 
and existing audiences. This multi-platform brand and 
talent offering is creating an unrivalled commercial 
proposition in market for advertisers that will grow in 
importance and commercial attractiveness over the 
coming years as the audio consumption habits of our 
audiences broaden.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 5

Adshel
Adshel set about reinstating its national digital network 
during 2018 with significant progress being made 
up until Adshel’s sale in September. Further contract 
wins and renewals, and launch of market leading 
digital and data capability was engaging advertisers 
in new and different ways.

Emotive had another successful year with increased 
earnings and gross margin. This ongoing improvement 
was secured on the back of strong client retention 
and new clients wins. Emotive continues to produce 
global and domestic award winning work and has 
recently launched its ‘Social to Scale’ creative process 
to adapt to the changes in the marketing landscape.

In April, HT&E was approached with an offer of 
$420 million to acquire Adshel. A well-executed, 
highly competitive process ultimately led to the 
business being sold to oOh!media for $570 million, 
with the transaction announced on 25 June and 
completed on 28 September after Australian 
Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) 
clearance was obtained.

The sale of Adshel for $570 million delivered 
compelling value for shareholders in a consolidating 
out of home industry, and a significant value uplift 
for shareholders of over $340 million over HT&E’s 
net cash investment of approximately $230 million.

Hong Kong Outdoor (CODY)
One of the standout performances in 2018 was 
from Cody, where the business successfully 
returned to operating profitability for the first 
time since 2015.

While improvement in market conditions assisted, it 
was the careful management of the contract portfolio 
and selective upgrading of premium tram shelters 
that drove revenue growth of HKD 30.5 million, 
or 20 per cent. Strict cost management saw cost 
savings of HKD 11 million, delivering EBITDA of 
HKD 7.2 million for the year, compared to a loss 
of HKD 10.2 million (HKD 34.3 million prior to the 
Buzplay contract provision release) in 2017.

At the end of 2018, Cody has a portfolio of profitable 
contracts and a lean overhead base. New contract 
opportunities will be explored from 2019 subject to 
them meeting strict capital management criteria.

Digital investments
In 2018, Gfinity Australia (Gfinity) launched its 
inaugural Elite Series. Across two seasons, Gfinity 
hosted its unique competitive framework across 
14 weeks of competition for six teams playing 
three leading game titles; broadcast to Twitch, 
Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Ten Network from 
a world-class, purpose built esports arena built 
in conjunction with HOYTS; engaged with more 
than nine million unique and principally harder-to-
reach younger audience; and secured meaningful 
sponsorship revenue from sponsors.

Gfinity is in the early stages of development as a 
commercial medium with varied business models 
being pursued domestically and internationally. 
With our joint venture partners, we continue 
to assess our options in this area with a view to 
breaking even in 2020. 

HT&E’s investment in Unbnd is tracking to plan, 
with a new virtual and augmented reality content 
platform due to be released in early 2019 with 
some exciting content partnerships in various 
stages of development.

Soprano Design, in which HT&E has a 
25% investment, continues its momentum 
through market, channel and customer acquisition 
and growth. The business manages more than 
three billion trusted mobile interactions per 
annum, for some of the largest enterprises and 
governments in 14 countries. Soprano paid HT&E 
a $1.25 million dividend during 2018.

2019 focus
After a number of years successfully repositioning 
HT&E’s portfolio of assets, exiting declining 
industries, eliminating debt and operating in growth 
sectors of media in Australia, 2019 will see HT&E 
focus primarily on ARN’s broadcast, digital, social 
and streaming suite of assets with a clear vision to 
create the future of audio entertainment.

We have put plans in place for 2019 to deliver 
increasing value for shareholders by driving and 
delivering operational performance and reducing 
corporate costs. We are undertaking an on-market 
share buyback that we expect to drive earnings per 
share accretion.

We also have an eye to the broader media industry, 
following a number of changes of ownership and 
the beginnings of consolidation during 2018. We 
anticipate this will continue during 2019 and HT&E’s 
balance sheet strength provides optionality to look 
at the right strategic opportunities for the business 
if they arise.

Support
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of 
our staff at HT&E for their contribution to the Group 
in 2018. Through a period of on-going change, our 
teams continue to demonstrate strong commitment 
to the business.

I would also like to thank our shareholders for their 
support and look forward to working with you as we 
set about realising our goals and focus on delivering 
value in 2019 and beyond. 

Ciaran Davis  
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)  
& Managing Director

Following a period focusing on our core 
assets of radio and outdoor, integrating 2016 
acquisitions and achieving operational and 
financial improvements, 2018 saw significant 
attention directed to the Adshel sale and resulting 
reorganisation, which is ongoing. 

After a number of well-publicised talent changes at 
the beginning of 2018, ARN had its best ever ratings 
year in 2018 and remains the number two national 
network, less than one share point behind the 
market leader. Revenue share gains were achieved in 
H1 before the radio market softened in H2; while the 
market grew 5.9 per cent in the first half, it was up 
1.3 per cent year on year in the second half. Over the 
full year, ARN revenue was up three per cent, with 
first half growth of 8.7 per cent offset by 2.9 per cent 
decline year on year in the second half. Costs in ARN 
were up 3.3 per cent. As a result, EBITDA was up by 
$1.2 million, or one per cent, for the year.

Adshel revenue and costs were down 32 per cent 
and 31 per cent respectively in the nine months 
to September 2018 on the loss of the Yarra Trams 
contract in late 2017. Significant progress was being 
made to replace inventory in central Melbourne, and 
new capability was deployed to maximise flexibility and 
scale of the digital network. Up to 28 September 2018, 
Adshel EBITDA was $33.7 million. 

The table on page 7 reconciles the Group’s 
segment result from continuing operations before 
exceptional items to the statutory result including 
discontinued operations. Exceptional items in 
2018 comprise of non-recurring gains and losses 
arising during the year, including the profit on 
sale of Adshel of $174.2 million, the Conversant 
earn out release of $1.4 million less Hong Kong 
decommissioning costs of $0.5 million. Further 
details are included in note 1.3 to the consolidated 
financial statements.

6

This Operating 
& Financial 
Review should 
be read in 
conjunction 
with the 
Chairman’s 
Report and the 
Chief Executive 
Officer’s Report.

Operating 
& Financial 
Review

Performance overview
HT&E Limited (HT&E or the Company) results for 
2018 were impacted by the disposal of Adshel for 
$570 million, announced on 25 June and completed 
on 28 September. Statutory results for 2018 treat 
Adshel as a discontinued operation for the full year. 
Adshel’s performance for the nine months that it was 
owned by HT&E is discussed on the following pages.

Segment revenue from continuing operations 
was up five per cent to $271.8 million from 
$259.9 million. $6 million is attributable to market 
and share gains at Australian Radio Network (ARN), 
$5.7 million due to improved market conditions and 
sales effectiveness at Cody in Hong Kong, offset 
by declines at Conversant Media (Conversant), 
particularly in the first half. Conversant has been 
fully integrated into ARN. Segment costs were up 
three per cent to $207.9 million from $201.6 million; 
most of this growth was in ARN, driven by revenue 
growth and capability investment in staff, marketing, 
talent and platforms across the business. Segment 
earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and 
amortisation (EBITDA) from continuing operations 
and before exceptional items was up seven per cent 
from the corresponding period to $71.8 million. 

Depreciation related to continuing operations 
decreased from $4.8 million to $3.9 million in 2018. 
With the sale of Adshel, acquisition amortisation 
has been included in discontinued operations; 
amortisation from continuing operations was 
$0.8 million, in line with $0.9 million in 2017. As 
a result, segment earnings before interest and 
tax (EBIT) from continuing operations and before 
exceptional items was up nearly 10 per cent from 
the corresponding period to $67.2 million. Net 
interest expense declined on lower debt levels, 
including after the repayment of all drawn debt 
from the Adshel sale proceeds, while continuing 
operations tax expense increased in line with 
the earnings uplift.

Net Profit After Tax attributable to shareholders 
(NPAT) from continuing operations and before 
exceptional items was up 23 per cent to 
$36.7 million, compared to $29.7 million in 
2017. Profit from discontinued operations of 
$188.8 million reflects Adshel’s performance 
for the nine months under HT&E’s ownership, 
including a gain on sale of $164.8 million (after 
transaction and related costs). No impairments 
have been recognised in 2018. Statutory NPAT 
attributable to shareholders for the year was 
therefore a profit of $225.5 million, compared 
to a loss of $117.5 million in 2017.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 7

Financial performance

Segment result

Exceptional items3

Statutory result

AUD million4

Revenue

Other income

Share of profits of associates

Costs

EBITDA1

Depreciation

Amortisation 

EBIT2

Net interest expense

Net profit before tax

Tax expense

Net profit after tax

Profit attributable to non-controlling interests
NPAT attributable to HT&E shareholders 
from continuing operations

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations

NPAT attributable to HT&E shareholders

2018 

271.8

7.4

0.5

2017

259.9

7.4

1.3

(207.9)

(201.6)

71.8

(3.9)

(0.8)

67.2

(6.0)

61.2

(19.0)

42.2

(5.5)

36.7

13.8

50.5

66.9

(4.8)

(0.9)

61.2

(9.1)

52.1

(16.2)

35.9

(6.2)

29.7

13.2

42.9

2018 

2017

–

–

–

0.9

0.9

–

–

0.9

–

0.9

(0.0)

0.9

–

0.9

174.2

175.0

–

–

–

4.5

4.5

(0.8)

–

3.7

–

3.7

(1.2)

2.5

(0.3)

2.2

(162.5)

(160.4)

2018 

271.8

7.4

0.5

2017

259.9

7.4

1.3

(207.0)

(197.1)

72.7

(3.9)

(0.8)

68.1

(6.0)

62.1

(19.1)

43.0

(5.5)

37.5

188.0

225.5

71.4

(5.6)

0.9)

64.9

(9.1)

55.8

(17.4)

38.4

(6.6)

31.9

(149.4)

(117.5)

(1)  EBITDA from 
continuing 
operations and 
before exceptional 
items, represents 
the Group’s total 
segment result.

(2)  EBIT from 
continuing 
operations and 
before exceptional 
items.

(3)  Refer to note 1.3 of 
the consolidated 
financial 
statements for 
further details.

(4)  Totals may not add 
due to rounding.

Balance sheet and cash flow
The Group had net assets at 31 December 2018 of 
$572.1 million. The parent entity’s interest in the net 
assets decreased by $50.5 million during the year.

The sale of Adshel for $570 million, completed in 
September, saw a material change in the composition 
of HT&E’s balance sheet. Drawn debt was fully repaid, 
a fully franked dividend of $222 million was declared 
and paid in October, and an on-market, equal access 
share buyback commenced in early December. At the 
end of the year, HT&E retained $128.4 million in cash 
on its balance sheet. 

High quality talent 
engaging audiences 
across Australia.

On 22 January 2018 and 1 May 2018, the Australian 
Taxation Office (ATO) issued amended income tax 
assessments pertaining to the matter disclosed 
in the 2016 and 2017 Annual Report. HT&E 
remains satisfied that its treatment of this matter 
is consistent with relevant taxation legislation. The 
Company has not accrued any amount in relation 
to the dispute in the 2018 balance sheet. HT&E has 
lodged all required objections with the ATO and if 
necessary, will contest the amended assessments 
through litigation proceedings. $50.7 million has 
been deposited with the ATO while these dispute 
processes are being completed. Final resolution of 
this matter could take several years.

With net debt fully repaid, the balance sheet is 
very strong. The Group retains $256 million in 
undrawn facilities, sufficient to cover any outcome 
on the dispute with the ATO. These debt facilities 
were extended during 2018, with the majority not 
expiring until 2023.

Excluding $50.7 million prepayment of tax, operating 
cash flow was $45.5 million, down 40% from the 
2017 result. This was due to only nine months of 
Adshel cash flow and ordinary tax instalment catch 
up. Significant dividends were paid in 2018, with 
$21.6 million paid to shareholders via final 2017 
and interim 2018 payments, and $222.4 million via a 
special fully franked dividend in October. $39 million 
was incurred on the buyback in 2018. $20.6 million 
was spent on capital expenditure in 2018, compared 
to $15.5 million in 2017. Capital expenditure was 
predominantly in Adshel where network asset 
deployment and digitisation continued. Post the sale 
of Adshel, HT&E’s capital expenditure in 2019 will 
predominantly relate to radio maintenance activities, 
with a one-off increase for one office move and one 
radio station refurbishment currently underway.

A final dividend of 4 cents per share was declared 
for 2018 and is payable in March 2019. 

 
8

Operating & Financial Review

Australian  
Radio 
Network

ARN delivered its best ever ratings 
result in 2018 and remains a 
leading national radio network in 
Australia, with the country’s best 
on-air talent and a re-energised 
content strategy.

Solid performance in 2018
As flagged in the 2017 Annual Report, three new 
breakfast shows and a new national drive show were 
launched during 2018. Performance of these shows 
assisted in delivering the best ever ratings result for 
ARN. More broadly, ARN’s ratings continue to reflect 
ARN’s strategy of understanding what our audience 
wants; investing in and supporting the best talent in 
the Australian radio sector to create market leading 
content; and effectively promoting that content. What 
is between the songs is more important than the 
songs themselves.

The sector has demonstrated long-term growth in 
both listenership and revenue, and live Australian radio 
remains the dominant audio platform, accounting 
for 62.3 per cent of time spent listening to audio1. 
Importantly, ARN’s broad iHeartRadio offering provides 
access to other growing audience platforms, including 
podcasting, smart speakers and in-car dashboards, 
ensuring ARN’s content can be heard by audiences 
wherever and whenever they want.

The Australian radio advertising market had a mixed 
year. In the first half the market was up 5.9 per cent 
on same period in 2017. The market softened 
significantly in H2 and growth was 1.3% on 2017. 

AUD million2

Revenue

Costs

Segment EBITDA

Depreciation and 
amortisation

EBIT

2018

235.5

2017

229.4

(150.9)

(146.1)

84.6

(4.1)

83.4

(5.0)

80.5

78.4

Against that backdrop, ARN’s revenue performance was 
solid with full year revenue growth of three per cent, 
in line with market growth. Costs were up 3.3 per cent, 
driven by higher variable cost of sales on higher 
revenue, reinstatement of prior year marketing savings, 
increase in promotion and marketing to launch the 
four new shows, and further investment in capability, 
especially with regards to ARN’s non-traditional 
broadcast product offerings. As a result, EBITDA 
was up by $1.2 million or 1.5 per cent for the year, 
delivering a healthy EBITDA margin of 36 per cent.

Australia’s leading on-air talent driving 
strong ratings 
ARN has Australia’s leading on-air personalities, with 
key talent locked in for at least the next two years 
across the KIIS and Pure Gold networks. 

After the strong finish in 2017, ratings in 2018 
reflected some expected audience churn following 
the launch of new shows in Melbourne, Perth and 
Brisbane, as well as a new national drive show on 
KIIS. Ratings improved post launch, with all starting 
to deliver on expectations. Despite these changes 
impacting survey one, ARN regained its position as 
number one national 10+ network position in surveys 
three to five. ARN delivered the best ever ratings 
results in 2018 and ended the year as the number 
two national radio network in Australia, less than one 
share point behind the market leader. 

In Sydney, ARN dominated FM breakfast, holding 
the number one and number two FM spots for all of 
the eight surveys. After holding number one or two 
station positions for six of eight surveys, KIIS 1065 
and WSFM ended the year as number two and three 
station respectively. KIIS 1065’s Kyle & Jackie O and 
WSFM’s Jonesy & Amanda achieved outstanding 
results in Survey 8 (2018 10+ Breakfast), with a 
10.5 per cent and nine per cent share respectively. 
In 2018, Kyle & Jackie O also won the highly coveted 
Australian Commercial Radio Award for best on-air 
team for the second time since joining ARN.

In Melbourne, ARN made a number of significant 
changes in 2018. In January, KIIS 101.1 Breakfast was 
relaunched with Jase & PJ, while in June Gold 104.3 
launched the Christian O’Connell Breakfast show. 
After expected audience churn, ratings of both 
shows and their respective stations are improving. 
Importantly, ARN is beginning to achieve significant 
commercial improvements with new talent in place. 
The last three surveys of 2018 saw consistent ratings 
growth for both stations as these new shows become 
embedded in the Melbourne radio landscape.

(1)  2018 GfK Share of Audio study, Commercial Radio Australia.

(2)  Results include Conversant Media before intercompany 

eliminations. Refer to note 1.3 to the consolidated 
financial statements for further details. Totals may not 
add due to rounding.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 9

to advertisers and offers to consumer mobile 
devices. As flagged in 2017, partnerships with 
Whooshkaa, Spreaker and others have created the 
biggest library of podcasts in the country, with over 
2.2 million episodes that are in the early stages 
of commercialisation. 

The iHeartRadio app is also being integrated into 
voice-activated products to accelerate the platform’s 
availability across a range of devices, including Apple 
CarPlay, Android Auto and smart speakers including 
Google Home and Amazon’s Alexa. iHeartRadio’s 
integration into these new, voice-activated, 
consumer audio products, drove an increase in 
the usage of iHeartRadio in the second half of the 
year. In December, more than 332,000 hours of 
radio content was consumed by Google Home and 
Amazon Alexa owners alone. 

Digital and talent focus

In 2019, ARN will continue to leverage its strength 
in content creation and high quality talent to 
deliver engaged audiences and connect them with 
advertisers and clients. Integration of The Roar and 
focus alongside KIIS and Pure Gold network, The 
Edge and iHeartRadio will redefine ARN’s digital 
proposition and increase the breadth of our audio 
content availability across multiple platforms.

Brisbane was one of the most competitive radio 
markets in Australia in 2018, with five changes in 
station leadership during the year. 97.3FM ended 
the year as number four FM breakfast in a very 
tight market. 4KQ retained its position as number 
one AM station overall, and number two AM 
commercial breakfast.

Mix102.3 maintained its lead in Adelaide, finishing 
the year as the number one station overall with an 
increased share of 12.9 per cent, and the number 
one 10+ FM breakfast show.

In Perth, the Paul & Lise breakfast show is gaining 
traction in a market dominated by strong long-
standing teams with a strong improvement in 
Survey 8. We continue to explore opportunities 
to improve 96FM’s offering.

ARN also launched a new national Drive show, 
Will & Woody across the KIIS network in 2018. The 
show successfully drove greater appeal for national 
advertisers and achieved number one ratings in 
several surveyed market books in 2018. 

The future of audio entertainment 
ARN’s vision is to create the future of audio 
entertainment in Australia. 

iHeartRadio, the global music streaming and 
digital entertainment brand, is a key component 
in ARN’s future and a driver of audio content. 
The iHeartRadio app has now surpassed 1.8 million 
downloads and with more than 1.2 million registered 
users generating over 3.7 million hours of listening 
per month.

While DAB+ is one of many ways ARN distributes its 
content, iHeartRadio provides live radio, on-demand 
radio, podcasting and music streaming all within the 
one platform. It also enables a significantly better 
audience profiling through the collection of data – 
something DAB+ on its own cannot do.

Dynamic ad insertion is now common on 
the iHeartRadio platform, with advertising 
programmatically inserted based on user profiles. 
“Shake Me” interactive advertising was launched 
during 2018 with campaigns sending data to 
users who shake their phones during certain 
advertisements, providing instantaneous feedback 

Ensuring our content can be 
heard when, where and how 
a consumer wants is at the 
forefront of ARN’s strategy.

In 2018, Gold 104.3 
launched the Christian 
O’Connell Breakfast Show.

10

Operating & Financial Review

Adshel

The sale of Adshel for 
$570 million delivered 
compelling value for HT&E 
shareholders in a consolidating 
out of home industry.

Significant progress prior to sale
Adshel management set and began implementing 
a plan to reinstate the Melbourne digital network, 
immediately following the announcement of the 
loss of the Yarra Trams contract in October 2017. 
Significant progress was made up to the date of 
sale, with digital assets deployed into the new Metro 
Trains Melbourne contract, and commencement of 
digitisation of the existing Public Transport Victoria 
contract. As a result, by the end of September 
the impact of the Yarra Trams contract loss was 
much less than anticipated. For the nine months to 
28 September 2018, compared to the same period 
in 2017, while revenue was six per cent lower, costs 
were seven per cent lower and as a result EBITDA 
was down less than $1 million period on period.

Adshel was also making significant progress with 
its contract renewals. Key contracts including Ryde 
and Lane Cove were renewed during the period, 
while Hunters Hill was successfully won from a 
competitor. The Sydney Trains, Perth and Adelaide 
contracts were also extended. Significant progress 
was also being made with both the renewal of 
Brisbane City Council, and in partnership with 
Optus, Adshel’s preparation for the City of Sydney 
tender was well advanced. 

Adshel continued to implement industry leading 
developments in digital, data and technology. 
Advertiser interest and uptake in Adshel’s “Time / 
Day / Location” capability, launched in May, were 
growing rapidly at the time of the Adshel sale. 

AUD million2

Revenue

Costs

High quality light 
boxes at numerous 
tram shelter 
locations

Segment EBITDA

Depreciation

EBITA

2018

153.3

2017

225.7

(119.6)

(174.3)

33.7

(7.7)

25.8

51.5

(17.6)

34.0

Competitive sale process
The sale of Adshel to oOh!media in September 2018 
came after a highly competitive process that achieved 
a sale price of 12.6x LTM pro-forma EBITDA1 of 
$45.4 million. The sale delivered compelling value 
for HT&E shareholders in a consolidating out of 
home industry, assessed against fundamental 
value and having had regard to transaction costs 
and potential dissynergies from separating Adshel 
from the remainder of the HT&E business. The sale 
price represented significant value uplift of over 
$340 million, compared to HT&E’s approximately 
$230 million net cash investment in Adshel. It was 
also a premium to the $268 million paid for the 
second half of Adshel in October 2016 and secured 
for HT&E shareholders a share of synergies likely to 
be achieved by oOh!media.

The sale proceeds allowed HT&E, amongst other 
things, to strengthen its balance sheet via the pay 
down of existing debt. Shareholders also benefited 
via a fully franked special dividend of $222 million 
that was paid in October 2018, and an on-market 
share buyback that commenced in December and 
remains ongoing. 

Hong Kong 
Outdoor 
(Cody)

Cody, HT&E’s outdoor business, had a much better 
year in 2018. As flagged in the 2017 Annual Report, 
Cody returned to profitability in 2018 for the first 
time since 2015. Revenue was up 20 per cent in 
local currency to $180.9 million, driven by effective 
monetisation of the streamlined contract portfolio 
and full year impact of the Hong Kong tram shelter 
contract. Costs were down six per cent in local 
currency, following the savings implemented in 2017 
and continuing strict cost management. Forward 
bookings in 2019 have been encouraging to date. 

In 2018, Cody invested in a number of tram shelter 
improvements, including the installation of a 
number of high quality light boxes. Additionally, a 
number of strategic contracts will be up for tender 
over the next 12-18 months and Cody is positioning 
itself to pursue appropriate opportunities should 
they become available. 

(1)  LTM Pro-forma EBITDA to May 2018 removes the direct EBITDA 
contribution of the Yarra Trams contract for the period from 
June to November 2017 and does not include normalisations 
or pro-forma adjustments for the full year run rate of the 
impact of renewals, certain new contracts secured and 
associated digitisation.

(2)  2018 result represents nine months ownership. Totals may not 

add due to rounding.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 11

Plans are being developed to reduce this loss in 
2019. The esports market is still developing and 
while we are pleased with the progress we are 
making in establishing Gfinity as the leading provider 
of integrated esports solutions, we have revised 
our OpEX number down from previous estimate of 
$10 million with a view to breaking even in 2020. 

Emotive
Emotive performance was consistent year on 
year. Gross margin improved from 65 per cent to 
88 per cent and earnings were up 5.7 per cent, 
While Emotive continues to be one of the leading 
social video content agencies in the country with a 
number of awards in 2018, including two global and 
a domestic award for Audible’s “Said I Loved You But 
I Lied” campaign featuring Michael Bolton. Emotive 
also won the 2018 Mumbrella Awards for “Best of 
Use of Film Craft/Best Execution” and “Best Branded 
Entertainment (Fiction)” for Unilever’s Lynx campaign 
featuring Julian Dennison. 

The business continued to expand its client base, 
with Transport NSW considered a major win in 2018. 
In December 2018, Emotive announced an agency 
re-brand, including a new brand identity, strategic 
positioning and a consumer centric creative process 
titled ‘Social to Scale’. The changes see Emotive evolve 
from a former video content marketing specialist to 
a full-service creative agency delivering content, ads 
and experiences. The ‘Social to Scale’ creative process 
is designed to adapt to changes in the marketing 
landscape. At a time when ad formats are being 
shortened and marketing is becoming increasingly 
transactional, Emotive flips the traditional creative 
process by testing and learning via long form social 
and using those in-market learnings to further 
develop the best possible scale-able assets.

Investments

There were several key 
developments across HT&E’s 
digital investments in 2018.

Gfinity Australia
Gfinity Australia (Gfinity) successfully launched its 
inaugural city-based, professional esports franchise 
league, the Elite Series in June 2018 and held 
the second season from November. In a nascent 
industry, Gfinity ran two high quality, seven week 
tournaments with six teams, playing Counterstrike: 
Global Offensive, Street Fighter V and Rocket League 
from a purpose-built, dedicated esports arena at 
HOYTS Entertainment Quarter in Sydney. Significant 
commercial partnerships were secured with Dell 
gaming brand, Alienware, Logitech and Dare Ice 
Coffee. Excellent brand exposure was delivered 
for these partners via integrated content in the 
77 hours of live broadcast for Season 1. The first 
ever commercial arrangement with online platform 
Twitch meant exclusive streaming on this platform, 
with one of the sessions each week simulcast on 
Ten Network’s ONE. For Season 2, a deal was also 
secured to broadcast two hours of the Rocket 
League tournament on 10 Peach, with a more 
youthful audience. In addition, a relationship was 
established with cryptocurrency and blockchain 
company, Incent Loyalty, to reward viewers for 
increased engagement and providing data.

Despite momentum building over the year, and 
revenue in excess of $1.6 million, start-up and 
operating costs meant the business incurred 
an EBITDA loss of $4.4 million in 2018. This was 
largely in line with our expectations of the first year 
performance when we entered into the joint venture 
to launch eSports in Australia.

Gfinity Elite series was hosted in a new dedicated 
Esports arena at HOYTS Entertainment Quarter.

12

Corporate  
Social 
Responsibility

HT&E recognises the importance 
of our people to the Company’s 
success and seeks to continuously 
engage with the communities 
we operate in. 

Empowering our teams
At HT&E, we understand people are key to our 
business success. We are committed to listening 
and providing our teams with continuous learning 
opportunities and safe, inclusive and respectful 
working environments. HT&E encourages a healthy 
work-life balance, offering flexible work hours, and 
supporting each business across the Group to 
implement initiatives that improve the wellbeing of 
their teams and build a positive employment culture. 

In 2018, ARN significantly increased its Learning & 
Development (L&D) commitment with over 16,000 
training hours delivered nationally via internal 
platforms ‘Thrive’ and ‘EmpowerMe’ and external 
providers. Leadership, resilience, mental health, sales 
and digital media upskilling, Privacy and Cyber Security 
awareness were key focuses for the L&D program. 

ARN participated in its first ‘Diversity, Inclusion and 
Engagement’ survey with the outcomes driving 
future people and performance initiatives. 

Across the Group, HT&E empowers our people to 
contribute to the diverse communities we connect 
with every day through programs such as the ARN 
Goodness Project.

Giving back to our communities
HT&E is committed to supporting the communities 
in which its businesses operate, giving back 
through partnerships, media inventory, work 
experience programs, and community engagement 
opportunities for employees.

ARN Community 
Service Announcements 
worth $8.2 million.

Community Service Announcements (CSA) allow 
us as a business to give back to the community 
by helping raise awareness on community and 
health issues as well as aid and relief services. 
Fundraising events are also promoted via CSA, 
giving our audiences the opportunity to get involved 
and contribute to charities and community events. 
These charities include Australian Red Cross, 
Ovarian Cancer Australia, UNICEF, HeartKids, 
Family Peace Foundation and many more. 

HT&E’s digital publishing business Conversant 
Media delivered three campaigns for not-for-profit 
organisations in 2018 across its websites, including 
support for Surf Life Saving Australia and Movember 
Foundation. Paid campaigns for the New South 
Wales Government’s ‘Pretty Shady’ skin cancer 
awareness initiative continued to run in 2018.

Conversant brand The Roar launched the Club 
Roar Awards in 2017, an initiative to give back to 
local sporting clubs and highlight up-and-coming 
sporting talent by encouraging Australian sports 
fans to publish videos of their best and worst 
sporting moments. Two rounds of Awards ran in 
2018, with $20,000 in total cash prizes presented 
to fans and sports clubs.

Environmental initiatives and 
sustainable solutions
HT&E recognises that implementing best practice 
environmental initiatives is not only good for the 
planet, but also makes good business sense. 
As a media organisation, we understand our 
responsibility to demonstrate leadership in this 
space, always complying with relevant legislation 
and seeking to implement sustainable solutions.

The business continues to invest in and explore 
new ways to minimise energy consumption and to 
reuse and recycle all by-products to help protect 
the environment.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 13

Case  
studies

OzHarvest
ARN has partnered with OzHarvest as their 
official Community Media Partner to reduce food 
waste and alleviate hunger through broadcasting 
campaign messages and appeals. 

ARN will be utilising all 12 radio stations 
nationally, in order to raise brand awareness, 
effect behaviour change and provide campaign 
support in raising funds. Integrated campaign 
support will also be provided through social and 
online platforms to promote 100th million Meal 
Appeal, Christmas Appeal, Tax Appeal, Fight 
Food Waste, CEO CookOff and other OzHarvest 
brand campaigns. 

A bespoke partnership plan has been created 
which will include volunteering opportunities 
for ARN employees nationally at the OzHarvest 
Market and a “Lunch Bites” information session 
presented to all staff about Australia’s food 
waste and what we can do to minimise our 
impact on landfill.

2018 Gold Appeal
ARN was once again a proud partner of the 
Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation in 2018, 
helping to raise funds for the 2018 Gold Appeal.

Led by WSFM’s Jonesy & Amanda, ARN delivered 
a six week campaign, incorporating talent voiced 
promotional spots and live mentions, plus 
the very first ‘Celebrity DNA Auction’, running 
throughout May and June to raise funds for the 
appeal. Jonesy & Amanda’s Celebrity DNA Auction 
featured items from their “DNA Cupboard” which 
had been collected over the past few years 
from some of their biggest guests including 
items from Nigella Lawson, Hugh Jackman and 
Patrick Dempsey.

Support was also provided across KIIS 1065 and 
The Edge96.One throughout May and June, with 
live mentions and online and social activity. A CSA 
schedule on all three stations complemented 
the promotional support with a value of 
$225,000 in airtime. 

The ARN Goodness Project
The ARN Goodness Project was launched in 
2017 as an opportunity for our employees 
to ‘give back’ and share ‘goodness’ out in 
the broader community. A partnership was 
established with UnLtd, a foundation that 
connects youth charities with the Australian 
media and marketing industry, tackling every 
form of youth disadvantage including mental 
health, trauma, abuse, neglect, homelessness, 
isolation and education. Through this 
partnership, we have worked with two 
charities aimed at putting the spotlight on 
youth disadvantage: Batyr and Musicians 
Making a Difference (MMAD).

With the launch of The Goodness Project, 
ARN has been able to harness our people’s 
creativity and ideas to build awareness 
and provide an ongoing platform to raise 
funds for these charities. As part of ARN’s 
commitment to The Goodness Project, a 
charity day to devote time, skills and  
expertise has been offered and encouraged  
to all ARN staff.

The ARN Goodness Project team also 
hosts a variety of informative “Lunch Bites” 
sessions featuring guest speakers, including 
psychologists and relationship professionals. 
These sessions provide insight into a variety of 
topics including identifying, approaching and 
supporting potential mental health issues in 
family, friends and colleagues in the workplace.

The Goodness Project team also work to raise 
much needed funds for our charities, including 
giving staff the opportunity to win tickets 
to some of the biggest concerts in town via 
employee raffles. ARN also showed support via 
attendance and donation of prizes to our charity 
events, including the Batyr Blue Tie Ball, for the 
second consecutive year.

14

Board of 
Directors

HAMISH McLENNAN 
Chairman of the Board  
and Non-executive Director 
(since 30 Oct 2018) 

Hamish McLennan is an 
experienced media and marketing 
executive who brings unparalleled 
expertise to the Board, given the 
global roles he has held and his 
depth of understanding of the 
changing media landscape and 
the demands of advertisers. He 
has a proven track record as an 
outstanding leader across the 
media and advertising sectors.

Previous roles Hamish has held 
include Executive Chairman and 
Chief Executive Officer of Ten 
Network Holdings from 2013 to 
2015, Executive Vice President for 
News Corporation in Sydney and 
New York from 2012 to 2013 and 
Global Chairman and CEO of Young 
& Rubicam, a division of WPP, the 
world’s largest communications 
services group from 2006 to 2011.

Committees
Audit & Risk, Nomination 
and Governance, and 
Remuneration Committees. 

Other Directorships and offices
Director of REA Group Ltd 
(Chairman), Magellan Financial 
Group Limited and Garvan 
Institute of Medical Research 
(Fundraising Board).
Previous directorships of other 
Australian listed companies (last 
three years) 
iProperty Group Pty Ltd 
(from 16 February 2016 to 
6 February 2019) (delisted).

CIARAN DAVIS
CEO & Managing Director
(since 24 Aug 2016)

BELINDA ROWE, BA
Non-executive Director 
(since 5 Feb 2019) 

Ciaran Davis is responsible for 
the strategic and operational 
direction of the business. He 
has transformed a business with 
large debt and a declining asset 
portfolio centred on traditional 
publishing, into one of the most 
exciting media businesses in 
Australia today, with a strong 
balance sheet. 

Prior to becoming CEO of HT&E, 
Ciaran spent five years as CEO of 
ARN repositioning the business 
to become the number one 
metropolitan radio operator in 
Australia. He has 20 years media 
experience working in over 15 
countries throughout Europe and 
the Middle East.

Other Directorships and offices 
Director of a number of HT&E 
subsidiaries and joint venture 
companies and The Australian 
Ireland Fund Ltd. 
Previous directorships of other 
Australian listed companies  
(last three years)
Nil.

Belinda Rowe has worked across 
the media industry in a number 
of global roles. 

Belinda was one of the top global 
executives at Publicis Media, one of 
the largest media communications 
group in the world. She has a strong 
understanding across international 
marketing, communication, media and 
digital having developed a business 
and digital transformation capability 
and successful client practice in her 
global role at ZenithOptimedia. She 
also recently created a unique content 
marketing business across 32 markets 
within Publicis Media advising on digital 
capabilities including programmatic, 
content, mobile, social and the 
application of data and technology. 

Belinda was a key member of the Global 
Management Executive team of Publicis 
Media and ZenithOptimedia, as well as 
previously chairing the UK leadership 
team of CEOs of all the Publicis Media 
businesses. Prior to moving to the UK in 
2009 she was CEO of ZenithOptimedia, 
part of Mojo – an iconic communications 
group, for 10 years in Australia.

Committees
Nil.

Other Directorships and offices
Nil.
Previous directorships of other 
Australian listed companies  
(last three years)
Nil.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 15

PAUL CONNOLLY, BComm, FCA
Non-executive Director
(since 18 Oct 2012) 

ROGER AMOS, FCA, FAICD 
Non-executive Director 
(since 30 Nov 2018) 

Paul Connolly has 25 years’ experience 
advising on mergers and acquisitions, 
takeovers, disposals, fundraisings and 
initial public offerings. 

Since 1991, Paul has been Chairman 
of Connolly Capital Limited, a Dublin-
based corporate finance advisory firm 
focused on the telecom, media and 
technology sectors. He was a Director 
of Esat Telecommunications Limited, 
an Irish telecommunications company, 
from 1997 to 2000, and then a Director 
of Digicel Limited from 2000 to 2006, a 
Caribbean-based telecommunications 
company. In addition, he was a Director 
of Melita Cable PLC from 2007 to 2016 
and a Director of Independent News 
& Media PLC from 2009 to 2018. From 
1987 to 1991, he held the position of 
Financial Controller of Hibernia Meats 
Limited and prior to that, he worked 
with KPMG as an accountant. 

Committees
Nomination and Governance 
(Chair), Audit & Risk and 
Remuneration Committees. 

Other Directorships and offices 
Director of Polaris Principal 
Navigator Ltd (private Irish company), 
Connolly Capital Limited (Chairman), 
Tetrarch Capital Limited (Chairman), 
Tetrarch Group PLC (Chairman), 
Communicorp Group Ltd, Business & 
Finance (private Irish business media 
group) and UNICEF Ireland (Chairman). 
Previous directorships of other 
Australian listed companies 
(last three years)
Nil.

Roger Amos is an experienced 
non-executive Director with extensive 
finance and management experience. 
He is Chairman of Contango Asset 
Management Limited, a non-executive 
Director of REA Group Ltd and a 
non-executive Director of 3P Learning 
Limited. At REA Group Ltd he is the 
Chairman of the Audit, Risk and 
Compliance Committee and a member 
of its Human Resources Committee. At 
3P Learning Limited, he is the Chairman 
of the Audit and Risk Committee and 
a member of its Nominations and 
Remuneration Committee. Previously, 
he was a Director of Austar United 
Communications Limited and Enero 
Group Limited. He had a long and 
distinguished career with international 
accounting firm KPMG for 25 years 
as a partner in the Assurance and 
Risk Advisory Services Division. While 
with KPMG, he led the Australian 
team specialising in the information, 
communications and entertainment 
sectors and held a number of 
global roles. 

Committees
Audit & Risk (Chair), Remuneration 
(Chair) and Nomination and 
Governance Committees. 

Other Directorships and offices
Director of Contango Asset 
Management Limited (Chairman), 
REA Group Ltd, 3P Learning Limited 
and Governor of the Cerebral Palsy 
Alliance Research Foundation. 
Previous directorships of other 
Australian listed companies (last 
three years)
Enero Group Limited (from 
23 Nov 2010 to 18 Oct 2018).

16

Senior 
Management 
Team

YVETTE LAMONT
Group General Counsel and 
Company Secretary, HT&E
Yvette Lamont was appointed 
Group General Counsel and 
Company Secretary of HT&E 
in 1998. Yvette was previously 
General Counsel of pay television 
company Australis Media Limited 
(Galaxy), a Senior Associate with 
law firm Allens (in the Media 
and Technology Group) and 
a solicitor with boutique law 
firm Boyd, House & Partners 
(specialising in media law 
and in particular commercial 
radio). She is a member of the 
Media and Communications 
Committee of the Law Council 
of Australia, a Graduate of the 
Australian Institute of Company 
Directors, and has completed the 
Company Meetings and Company 
Secretarial Practice courses 
with the Governance Institute 
of Australia. She is admitted as 
a solicitor to the Supreme Court 
of New South Wales and the 
High Court of Australia.
Yvette is a Director of a number 
of HT&E subsidiaries.

ROB ATKINSON
Chief Executive Officer, ARN 
Rob Atkinson was appointed 
Chief Executive Officer of ARN in 
April 2017. Rob joined Adshel in his 
previous role as CEO in November 
2011, having previously held the 
position of Chief Operating Officer 
of Clear Channel UK. He originally 
joined Clear Channel as Sales 
Director in 2005, before being 
promoted to Group Sales Director 
and then Managing Director in the 
same year (2008). Prior to joining 
Clear Channel, he held various 
senior sales roles at Associated 
Newspapers in both London and 
Dublin and won the prestigious 
Campaign Magazine UK Sales 
Leader of the Year in 2009. As CEO 
at Adshel, he pioneered the launch 
of the world’s first national digital 
street furniture network, as well as 
the biggest national deployment of 
beacons in the world. In the past 
four years he has been shortlisted 
three times for both Australian CEO 
of the Year, and Media Executive 
of the Year, by the prestigious 
CEO Magazine.

CIARAN DAVIS
CEO & Managing Director, 
HT&E
Refer to biography on page 14.

JEFF HOWARD 
Chief Financial Officer, HT&E
Jeff Howard joined HT&E in 2010 
and was appointed Chief Financial 
Officer in December 2012. Jeff 
spent more than nine years 
with ABN AMRO and RBS in 
corporate lending and broader 
relationship banking roles 
that included a focus on the 
telecommunications and media 
sectors. Prior to this, he was with 
KPMG where he spent nearly 
10 years in audit and project 
roles, including a secondment to 
KPMG’s Philadelphia practice. He 
completed his Executive MBA with 
the Australian Graduate School 
of Management in 2005, and 
is a Graduate of the Australian 
Institute of Company Directors 
and a Chartered Accountant. 
Jeff is a Director of a number 
of HT&E subsidiaries and joint 
venture entities.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 17

4. Taxation
4.1

Income tax and deferred tax

5. Group structure
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4

Controlled entities
Interests in other entities
Shares in other corporations
Investments accounted for using the equity 
method
Parent entity financial information
Deed of cross guarantee

5.5
5.6

6. Other
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6

Discontinued operations
Contingent liabilities
Remuneration of auditors
Related parties
Other significant accounting policies
Subsequent events

DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL HISTORY

CORPORATE DIRECTORY

82

86
89
90

91
93
94

96
99
99
100
101
103

104

105

111

114

115

Table of Contents

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

DIRECTORS’ REPORT

REMUNERATION REPORT

AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION

ABOUT THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Consolidated Income Statement
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Balance Sheet
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

NOTES TO THE  
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Group performance
Revenues
1.1
Expenses
1.2
Segment information
1.3
Earnings per share
1.4

2. Operating assets and liabilities
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4

Intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Receivables
Provisions

3. Capital management 
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9

Interest bearing liabilities
Cash flow information
Financial risk management
Fair value measurements
Contributed equity
Share-based payments
Reserves and accumulated losses
Dividends
Commitments

18

18

24

43

44

45
46
47
48
49

50
53
54
56

57
61
63
65

67
69
70
73
75
76
78
80
80

18

Directors’ Report

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT
The Board of HT&E endorses good corporate governance practices and oversees an organisation–wide commitment to high 
standards of legislative compliance and financial and ethical behaviour.

The Directors’ overriding objective is to increase shareholder value within an appropriate framework that protects the rights 
and enhances the interests of all shareholders and ensures the Company is properly managed.

The Company has considered the best practice recommendations established by the ASX Corporate Governance Council 
Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations (Recommendations) and has complied with those Recommendations 
for the entire reporting period (unless otherwise indicated in the Company’s Corporate Governance Statement).

A description of how the Company’s main corporate governance practices and policies, together with the policies and charters 
referred to in it, is available on the Company’s website, www.htande.com.au/corporate-governance. 

DIRECTORS’ REPORT
Your Directors present their report on the consolidated entity consisting of HT&E and the entities it controlled at the end of, 
or during, the year ended 31 December 2018. Throughout this report, the consolidated entity is also referred to as the Group.

1.  DIRECTORS
The Directors of HT&E Limited during the financial year and up to the date of this report consisted of: 

Current

Hamish McLennan (Chairman) (appointed 30 October 2018)
Paul Connolly (appointed 18 October 2012)
Roger Amos (appointed 30 November 2018)
Belinda Rowe (appointed 5 February 2019)
Ciaran Davis (CEO & Managing Director)

Former

Peter Cosgrove (retired 30 June 2018)
Peter Cullinane (retired 7 May 2018)
Christine Holman (resigned 3 December 2018)
Robert Kaye (appointed 19 February 2018, resigned 11 September 2018)
Anne Templeman-Jones (resigned 14 May 2018).

Details of the current Directors’ qualifications, experience and responsibilities are set out on pages 14 and 15. 

2.  QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE OF COMPANY SECRETARY
Refer to page 16 for the qualifications and experience of the Group General Counsel and Company Secretary, Yvette Lamont.

3.  PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
HT&E is a leading media and entertainment company listed on the ASX which operates radio, audio and digital businesses in 
Australia as well as outdoor assets in Hong Kong.

HT&E owns ARN, Australia’s leading metropolitan radio broadcaster and home to the national KIIS and Pure Gold networks 
and youth radio network The Edge. ARN also operates music streaming, digital entertainment and live events brand 
iHeartRadio, a content creation business Emotive, and after full integration in 2018, Conversant Media which produces 
engaging premium websites, including Australia’s leading sports opinion website, The Roar.

HT&E also owns Cody Out-of-Home in Hong Kong, which has a network of over 450 outdoor advertising panels across major 
Hong Kong tunnels as well as the iconic tram shelters on Hong Kong Island.

Other HT&E investments include esports business Gfinity Esports Australia, virtual reality content and platform business 
Unbnd, and global provider of mobile messaging technology Soprano Design. 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 19

In September 2018, HT&E completed the sale of Adshel to oOh!media Limited for an enterprise value of $570 million. The net 
sale proceeds have been applied to pay down drawn debt, pay a fully franked special dividend of 72 cents per HT&E share and 
commence an on-market share buyback of circa $55 million.

4.  DIVIDENDS
Dividends paid to owners of HT&E Limited during the financial year were as follows:

DIVIDENDS

Type
Final 2017
Interim 2018
Special 

Cents per 
share

4.0
3.0
72.0

AUD
$million
12.4
9.3
222.4

Date of payment
26 Apr 2018
27 Sep 2018
24 Oct 2018

Since the end of the financial year, the Directors have declared the payment of a fully franked final dividend of 4.0 cents per 
ordinary share in respect of the year ended 31 December 2018. This dividend is payable on 15 March 2019.

5.  CONSOLIDATED RESULT AND REVIEW OF OPERATIONS
Information on the operations and financial position of the Group and its business strategies and prospects is set out in the 
Chairman’s Report, CEO’s Report and Operating & Financial Review on pages 2 to 11.

6.  SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN THE STATE OF AFFAIRS
In the opinion of the Directors, there were no significant changes in the state of affairs of the consolidated entity during the 
financial year under review not otherwise disclosed in this Directors’ Report or the consolidated financial statements. 

7.  MATTERS SUBSEQUENT TO THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR
Events occurring after balance date are outlined in note 6.6 to the consolidated financial statements.

LIKELY DEVELOPMENTS AND EXPECTED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

8. 
Overall strategic direction and prospects are discussed in the Chairman’s and CEO’s reports on pages 2 to 5 and the Operating 
& Financial Review on pages 6 to 11.

Further information as to likely developments in the operations of the consolidated entity and the expected results of those 
operations in subsequent financial years has not been included in this Directors’ Report because, in the opinion of the 
Directors, it would prejudice the interests of the consolidated entity.

9.  RISK MANAGEMENT
The Board plays an active role in the setting and oversight of HT&E’s Risk Management Framework.

The Australian advertising industry is subject to inherent risks including, but not limited to, exposure to macroeconomic 
factors, technological and social changes impacting consumer behaviours and advertiser spending, market competition and 
impacts of changes in government regulations. 

The process of identifying, monitoring and mitigating significant business risks under the Group’s Risk Management Framework 
is outlined in further detail in the Corporate Governance Statement which is available on the Company website.

20

The Group has identified a number of specific business and financial risks, which depending on the severity, may impact 
HT&E’s ability to achieve its strategic objectives and financial forecasts. Risks include, but are not limited to:

Risk
Macroeconomic 
factors

Description
The Group operates within the radio and digital advertising sectors in Australia and within the outdoor 
sector in Hong Kong. The ability to execute its strategy is linked to ongoing economic stability in those 
markets. If economic conditions were to deteriorate, there could be a significant reduction in Group 
revenues and earnings. 

The Group enters into long-term contracts that contain fixed cost commitments which do not vary with 
revenue; consequently, a reduction in advertising revenues could result in a significant reduction in 
Group earnings.

Competitive 
pressures 

The Group’s strategic objectives could be impacted by increasing numbers of traditional and 
non-traditional competitors entering the markets in which the Group operates, changes in strategy 
of existing competitors, and the possibility of further industry consolidation. 

Plans and strategies are continuously reviewed to mitigate this risk. The Group monitors performance 
and market developments to reassess plans and strategies as required.

Changes in 
advertiser and/
or audience 
preferences

The sectors in which the Group operates have experienced consistent revenue growth in the recent 
past, however further growth is contingent on remaining relevant to advertisers and consumers. 
Changes in consumer preferences leading to audience fragmentation could over time result in 
revenue declines.

The Group continues to invest in capability including, but not limited to, retaining experienced media 
executives, hiring proven radio talent, participation in industry bodies, advertising and market research 
to mitigate the risk as best as possible.

Tax matters

As previously disclosed, there are a number of open tax matters with the Australian Taxation Office, the 
outcomes of which have the potential to adversely impact earnings, cash flow and the Group’s strategy. 

Further details are provided in note 4 to the consolidated financial statements.

Loss of 
broadcasting 
licence

Information 
technology 
including cyber 
security

While considered unlikely, the loss of an Australian radio broadcasting licence would have a material 
impact on Group revenues and earnings. 

The Group has long-standing controls in place to minimise the risk of legislation compliance breaches.

There are a number of information technology systems that are critical to the operations of the Group 
and protection of privacy of data.

The Group continues to invest in cyber security and strengthening its IT Risk Management Framework 
to reduce the occurrence of outages, enable early detection of issues and mitigate operating and 
financial impacts.

Legislative 
environment

The Group is subject to changes in government legislation, which could limit future revenues from 
certain advertisers or specific advertising formats. 

The Group derives revenue from a large number of advertisers across a diverse range of industry sectors. 
Further, the Group has a strong understanding of the legislative environment in which it operates.

Directors’ ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 21

10.  ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION
The Directors recognise the importance of environmental and occupational health and safety issues. The Directors are 
committed to compliance with all relevant laws and regulations to ensure the protection of the environment, the community 
and the health and safety of employees. The operations of the consolidated entity are not subject to any particular and 
significant environmental regulation under the laws of Australia or Hong Kong.

11.  REMUNERATION REPORT
The Remuneration Report is set out on pages 24 to 42 and forms part of this Directors’ Report.

12.  DIRECTORS’ MEETINGS
The number of meetings of the full Board of Directors and Board Committees held in the period each Director held office 
during the financial year and the number of those meetings attended by each Director in their capacity as a member of the 
Board or Board Committee were:

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

AUDIT & RISK COMMITTEE

REMUNERATION 
COMMITTEE

NOMINATION AND 
GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

Held

Attended

Held

Attended

Held

Attended

Held

Attended

Current Directors
Hamish McLennan
Roger Amos
Paul Connolly
Ciaran Davis
Belinda Rowe
Former Directors
Peter Cosgrove
Peter Cullinane
Christine Holman
Robert Kaye
Anne Templeman-Jones

2
1
14
14
N/A

8
4
13
7
4

2
1
14
14
N/A

8
4
13
7
3

–
1
7
N/A
N/A

N/A
N/A
6
2
3

–
1
7
N/A
N/A

N/A
N/A
6
2
3

–
–
1
N/A
N/A

N/A
1
–
N/A
1

–
–
1
N/A
N/A

N/A
1
–
N/A
1

–
–
2
N/A
N/A

2
N/A
2
N/A
N/A

–
–
2
N/A
N/A

2
N/A
2
N/A
N/A

Committees were formed for purposes including reviewing and approving the half-year and annual financial statements, 2017 
Annual Report and 2017 Shareholder Review, Notice of Annual General Meeting and Special Dividend. These meetings were 
attended as follows (Held/Attended): Robert Kaye (1/1), Peter Cosgrove (2/2), Christine Holman (1/1) and Ciaran Davis (5/5).

22

13.  DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS
The Remuneration Report on pages 24 to 42 of this Annual Report contains details of shareholdings of the Directors and 
Executive Key Management Personnel for the year ended 31 December 2018.

14.  SHARES UNDER OPTION
There were no unissued shares of HT&E Limited under option at 31 December 2018 and no shares issued during the financial 
year as a result of the exercise of options. No options have been granted since the end of the financial year.

INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

15. 
The parent entity’s Constitution provides for an indemnity for officers of the Company against any liability incurred by an officer 
of the Company in their capacity as an officer. Under the Corporations Act 2001, this indemnity does not extend to a liability 
to the parent entity or a related body corporate of the parent entity, a liability for a pecuniary penalty or compensation order 
under certain provisions of the Corporations Act 2001 or a liability that is owed to someone other than the parent entity or a 
related body corporate of the parent entity, which did not arise out of conduct in good faith.

An Access, Indemnity and Insurance Deed is also provided to each Director and officer who serves as a director of the 
Company, a subsidiary or an associated entity. The deed is consistent with the Constitution and indemnifies these persons to 
the extent permitted by law for liabilities and legal costs incurred as a director of these entities (subject to some limitations).

INSURANCE OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

16. 
The parent entity has paid for an insurance policy for the benefit of all persons who are or have been directors or officers 
of the parent entity or any other company in the consolidated entity against liabilities incurred during any one policy period. 
The insured persons include current and former directors, officers and company secretaries of the parent entity and any 
other company in the consolidated entity. The insurance policy specifically prohibits the disclosure of the nature of the liability 
covered and the premium paid.

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

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

18.  NON-AUDIT SERVICES
The Group may decide to employ its auditors on assignments additional to their statutory audit duties where the auditor’s 
expertise and experience with the Group is important.

During the financial year, the Company’s auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers, received or is due to receive $782,000 for the 
provision of non-audit services. Full details of the amounts paid or payable to the auditors for audit and non-audit services 
provided during the financial year are set out in the Annual Report in note 6.3 to the consolidated financial statements.

The Company auditor has provided the Directors with an Auditor’s Independence Declaration in relation to the audit, a copy of 
which is provided on page 43. The auditor has also confirmed to the Directors that it has in place independence quality control 
systems which support its assertions in relation to its professional and regulatory independence as auditor of the consolidated 
entity (including the requirements of APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants).

The Audit & Risk Committee has reviewed the fees provided to the auditor for non-audit services in the context of APES 
110, the requirements of the Audit & Risk Committee Charter, the Audit Firm Service Provider Policy and general corporate 
governance practices adopted by the consolidated entity.

Based on the above factors, the Audit & Risk Committee has no reason to believe that there has been any compromise in the 
independence of the auditor due to the provision of these non-audit services and has advised the Board accordingly.

In accordance with the advice of the Audit & Risk Committee, the Directors are therefore satisfied that the provision of non-
audit services during the financial year by the auditor is compatible with the general standard of independence for auditors 

Directors’ ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 23

imposed by the Corporations Act 2001 and that the provision of non-audit services during the financial year did not 
compromise the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001.

19.  AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION
A copy of the Auditor’s Independence Declaration, as required under section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001, 
is provided on page 43.

20.  ROUNDING OF AMOUNTS TO NEAREST THOUSAND DOLLARS
The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Corporations (Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Reports) Instrument 2016/191 issued 
by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, relating to the rounding off of amounts in this Directors’ Report and 
the financial report. Amounts in this Directors’ Report and the financial report have been rounded off to the nearest thousand 
dollars, or in certain cases to the nearest dollar, in accordance with that instrument.

This Directors’ Report is issued in accordance with a resolution of the Directors.

Hamish McLennan 
Chairman

Sydney  
13 February 2019

24

Remuneration Report

DEAR SHAREHOLDERS
On behalf of the Remuneration Committee and the Board of Directors, I present HT&E’s Remuneration Report for 2018.

The main role of the Remuneration Committee is to ensure that HT&E’s remuneration policies and practices are consistent 
with and relevant to the achievement of the strategic goals of the Group. Amongst other objectives, the Committee is tasked 
with reviewing, and recommending to the Board, reward outcomes and any significant changes to remuneration arrangements 
for the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director (CEO) and his Executive Key Management Personnel (KMP) direct reports.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer’s reports outline the performance of the Group in 2018. HT&E’s statutory results 
improved year on year, and were in line with expectations, which were reduced to reflect lower group earnings following the 
sale of Adshel that completed on 28 September 2018. The remuneration outcomes set out below reflect this performance. 

REMUNERATION APPROACH AND CHANGES FOR 2018
The Board continues to review the appropriateness of the TIP structure compared to a more usual short-term incentive  
(STI)/long-term incentive (LTI) scheme. Based on external feedback, shareholder support at the 2018 AGM and our 
own assessment, we have again concluded that the TIP remains, in the Board’s opinion, the most effective incentive 
mechanism for HT&E.

The financial metrics were expanded in 2017 and include earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation 
(EBITDA), earnings per share (EPS) and return on invested capital (ROIC) targets for TIP assessment. Targets are set annually 
for the following 12 months based on current year actual results and expected performance for the year ahead.

After a number of changes in prior years, the structure of the Group’s Total Incentive Plan (TIP) in 2018 remained consistent 
with the 2017 plan that was overwhelmingly supported by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting in May 2018. No 
further structural changes are proposed for 2019 at this time.

Other than the 15 per cent reductions in total fixed remuneration (TFR) in 2018 for the CEO and Chief Financial Officer as 
documented in the 2017 Remuneration Report, limited changes were made to KMP TFR in 2018. Where changes were made 
these related to changes in roles and/or responsibilities compared to 2017.

PERFORMANCE AND REMUNERATION OUTCOMES FOR 2018
HT&E’s financial performance in 2018 was solid in a highly competitive media landscape. 
•  ARN’s strong second half 2017 performance carried into 2018. Ratings were expectedly impacted by changes in talent and 
improved into the middle of the year when ARN held the number one national network position (10+). Ratings variability in 
the second half saw ARN finish the year as the number two national network albeit with its highest ever audience ratings. 
First half commercial performance was also solid in a market that grew 5.9 per cent; the market softened from September 
and despite our limited ability to react with cost savings late in the year, ARN fell only slightly short of its 2018 target; and

•  Adshel continued to mitigate the loss of the Yarra Trams contract and focused on replacement of Melbourne digital 

inventory, expansion of its data offering and commercial success. Operationally for the nine months prior to its sale to 
oOh!media, Adshel delivered earnings ahead of expectations. The sale of Adshel for $570m in September 2018 realised 
significant value for HT&E shareholders.

Overall, Group financial performance saw:
•  Reported EBITDA before exceptional items and discontinued operations, of $71.8 million. This was up seven per cent 
on 2017 and was 1.8 per cent behind target (adjusted for the sale of Adshel). Assuming Adshel remained a continuing 
operation up to the time of its sale, HT&E EBITDA would have been $105.5 million. This would have been in line with the 
adjusted EBITDA target for the equivalent period;

•  EPS on a pre-amortisation, post-tax basis, before exceptional items and discontinued operations, of 11.9 cents. This was 

8.7 per cent ahead of target (adjusted for the sale of Adshel). Assuming Adshel remained a continuing operation up to the 
time of its sale, EPS would have been 16.6 cents per share, 8.2 per cent ahead of target; and

•  ROIC, calculated based on earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (EBITA) and before exceptional items and 

discontinued operations, of 18.9 percent, compared to adjusted target of 18.7 per cent (adjustment for the Adshel sale and 
related capital management outcomes achieved in 2018). On an Adshel continuing operations basis, ROIC would have been 
23.9 per cent compared to an adjusted target of 23.4 per cent (on the post-Adshel capital base). 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 25

Ensuring Adshel continued to deliver results for shareholders during the sale process was a critical element of 2018 
objectives. As Adshel was owned for nine months of 2018, the Board determined that KMP incentives should be based on its 
inclusion in the Group results up to the point of sale, rather than the statutory continuing operations results. On this basis, 
group performance was in line with EBITDA and ahead of EPS and ROIC adjusted targets for 2018 when Adshel is included. 
Consequently, TIP awards have been made to the Chief Executive Officer and his direct reports related to 2018 financial 
measures. A TIP award was made to Mike Tyquin, CEO of Adshel, reflecting the results achieved in the nine months that Adshel 
was owned by HT&E. KMP also met some or all of their personal key performance indicator (KPI) targets.

TIP outcomes for the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer in 2018 reflect the 15 per cent total fixed 
remuneration reduction taken by those individuals at the beginning of 2018, with the base salary reduction offset by a 
potential TIP increase. As noted in the 2017 Annual Report, this change was designed to deliver the same total compensation 
outcome if targets were met, or a meaningful cost saving to HT&E in the event objectives were not achieved. The impact of 
this fixed remuneration/TIP reallocation, and the limited 2017 TIP outcomes compared to 2016, mean total remuneration 
outcomes for 2018 for the CEO and CFO are higher than in 2017. For this reason, we have shown 2016 Actual and Total 
Remuneration and performance outcomes for comparison purposes throughout this report. 

TIP awards for continuing Executive KMP have been made in accordance with the TIP Plan Rules with 50 per cent paid in cash, 
and 50 per cent through the granting of HT&E equity rights. The number of rights granted was adjusted to reflect dividends 
paid during 2018 in accordance with the TIP Plan Rules. Granted rights are deferred under the TIP rules for a one year service 
period and a further two year holding period. Rights for Mike Tyquin, who by virtue of the sale of Adshel is no longer employed 
by an HT&E group company, have been cash settled as at 28 September 2018, the date the Adshel sale completed. The Board 
also decided to cash settle TIP outcomes for Rob Atkinson, CEO of ARN, who will leave HT&E during 2019.

CLAWBACK ASSESSMENT OF 2017 TIP
HT&E’s performance in 2017 resulted in no TIP awards for the Chief Executive Officer and his direct reports (other than 
Mike Tyquin) related to financial measures. Though most Executive KMP met their KPI targets, given the Company’s financial 
performance in 2017 the Board used its discretion to reduce KPI awards on average by 30%. All KPI awards, and Mike Tyquin’s 
financial performance award, were recognised by granting provisional equity rights, deferred under the TIP rules. No cash 
payments were made relating to 2017 performance. Further, 2017 KPI elements of the TIP awards were to be clawed back if 
HT&E did not achieve target thresholds in 2018. 

Based on the 2018 results noted above, target thresholds for the 2017 TIP awards were met and consequently the provisional 
equity rights will not be clawed back. These have vested as at 31 December 2018 and for continuing Executive KMPs are now 
subject to holding lock for a further two years, ending on 31 December 2020. The number of vesting shares was adjusted in 
accordance with the Plan Rules for dividends paid during 2018. For Mike Tyquin and Rob Atkinson, 2017 TIP rights were cash 
settled in line with the 2018 outcomes.

SALE OF ADSHEL TO OOH!MEDIA
As noted above, the sale of Adshel to oOh!media in September 2018 for $570 million realised significant value for 
shareholders. At the commencement of the sale process, Mike Tyquin and some of his direct reports were provided with sale 
price-linked transaction incentives to ensure the continued performance of Adshel during the sale process. These incentives 
were paid in September 2018. No transaction completion incentives were paid to any other Executive KMP, despite the 
exceptional sale outcome achieved, and the significant value created for shareholders as a result.

At completion, the 2017 and 2018 TIP outcomes for Mike Tyquin were assessed based on performance up to that time. 
Given Mr Tyquin is unable to influence future outcomes for HT&E shareholders, the Board decided to cash settle these 
TIP outcomes.

Further, as a result of the Adshel sale, the Company commenced a process to simplify the group structure in November 2018. 
Incentives for 2017 and 2018 were resolved for affected people as outlined above.

REMUNERATION CHANGES FOR 2019
The Board has reviewed the appropriateness of the TIP structure for 2019. We have concluded that the TIP scheme remains 
the most effective mechanism to incentivise HT&E’s leadership. We have also concluded that the financial metrics continue to 
reflect the Board’s desire to see growth in earnings and returns. Targets in 2019 have been amended to remove the impact of 
acquisition amortisation from EPS and ROIC calculations following the sale of Adshel.

26

The Board considers that Executive KMP salaries remain appropriate despite the sale of Adshel, but they will be reviewed again 
during 2019 to ensure they are commensurate with the Company’s strategy and shareholder expectations. 

A number of Director changes occurred during the year, and relevant fees are outlined in section G of the Remuneration Report.

The Board believes our total remuneration and incentive plan strongly aligns our management team with the interests 
of shareholders.

Roger Amos 
Chair of the Remuneration Committee

Remuneration ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 27

OUR DETAILED REMUNERATION REPORT
This Remuneration Report for the year ended 31 December 2018 outlines key aspects of our remuneration policy and 
framework, and has been audited in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001.

Our Remuneration Report contains the following sections:

Executive remuneration policy and framework, and the role of the Remuneration Committee

Actual remuneration for 2018
Total remuneration for Executive KMP
Contractual arrangements with Executive KMP

A.  Who this report covers
B. 
C.  How 2018 reward was linked to performance
D. 
E. 
F. 
G.  Non-executive Director arrangements
H. 
I. 
J. 

Share-based remuneration
Director and Executive KMP shareholdings
Other statutory disclosures

A.  WHO THIS REPORT COVERS
This report covers Key Management Personnel (KMP), comprising Executive Key Management Personnel (Executive KMP) 
and Non-executive Directors. Other than the appointment of Belinda Rowe as a Non-executive Director on 5 February 2019, 
no changes have occurred since 31 December 2018 up to the date of this report:

Name

Role

Executive KMP
Ciaran Davis
Jeff Howard
Yvette Lamont
Rob Atkinson
Former Executive KMP
Tony Kendall
Mike Tyquin
Non-executive Directors
Hamish McLennan
Roger Amos
Paul Connolly
Belinda Rowe
Former Non-executive 
Directors
Peter Cullinane
Anne Templeman-Jones
Peter Cosgrove
Robert Kaye
Christine Holman

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Managing Director
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Group General Counsel and Company Secretary
Chief Executive Officer, Australian Radio Network

Chief Revenue Officer (until 31 December 2017)
Chief Executive Officer, Adshel (until 28 September 2018)

Non-executive Chairman (from 30 October 2018)
Non-executive Director (from 30 November 2018)
Non-executive Director
Non-executive Director (from 5 February 2019)

Non-executive Director (until 7 May 2018)
Non-executive Director (until 14 May 2018)
Non-executive Director (until 30 June 2018)
Non-executive Director (from 19 February 2018 until 11 September 2018)
Non-executive Director (until 3 December 2018)

28

B. 

 EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION POLICY AND FRAMEWORK, AND THE ROLE OF THE REMUNERATION 
COMMITTEE

The Remuneration Committee determines the remuneration policy and structure with the primary goal of attracting and 
retaining individuals capable of managing the Group’s operations in line with shareholder expectations. The executive 
packages are structured to:
•  be competitive in the market;
•  drive Executive KMP engagement;
•  provide an appropriate balance between short and long-term performance focus;
•  reward the achievement of financial and strategic objectives;
•  align executive reward with Company performance; and
•  create value for shareholders.

These principles were reflected in the remuneration framework for 2018, which is outlined below:

(I)  TOTAL FIXED REMUNERATION (TFR)
TFR comprises base salary, superannuation contributions and non-monetary benefits. The purpose of TFR is to recognise the 
capability and experience of the individual, and the scope and responsibility of the role.

As noted in the 2017 Remuneration Report, in 2017 the CEO and CFO offered to take a 15% reduction in base salary, which 
the Board accepted effective 1 January 2018. To ensure management remained incentivised to deliver outstanding results 
for shareholders, the Target Award Opportunity was adjusted upwards by the amount of TFR forgone, such that total 
compensation (TFR and TIP) for the CEO and CFO would equate to what could have been earned in 2017 if targets had been 
met. This reweighting to TIP benefits shareholders in two ways:
•  a greater proportion of the CEO’s and CFO’s total compensation is at risk and subject to performance outcomes. 

• 

If performance targets are not met, a TFR cost reduction of 15% is achieved; and
if performance targets are achieved, a greater proportion of total compensation will be paid in shares, deferred over three 
years. This further aligns management and shareholder objectives.

The target remuneration mix for the CEO and the average across the other continuing Executive KMP for 2018 and 2019 is 
illustrated below:

CEO

43%

OTHER
EXECUTIVE KMP
(AVERAGE)

51%

57%

49%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

TFR (%)

TIP (%)

Remuneration ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 29

Retirement benefits
Retirement benefits are considered to be part of TFR and are delivered to Executive KMP in the form of statutory 
superannuation contributions to a number of different funds. Contributions made on behalf of executives are based on a 
percentage of fixed salary. Ms Lamont is a member of a defined benefit superannuation plan (the plan provides defined lump 
sum or annuity benefits based on years of service and final average salary).

Other remuneration related costs
The Company may incur other remuneration related costs in respect of certain executives that are not regarded as part of the 
executive’s TFR. Typically, other payments are ancillary to the executive’s employment such as rental assistance or family travel 
in circumstances where the Company requires the executive to relocate. These costs include fringe benefits tax, if applicable.

(II)  TOTAL INCENTIVE PLAN (TIP) OVERVIEW
The TIP provides eligible participants with the opportunity to receive cash and equity following an assessment against specified 
financial and non-financial performance conditions based on a one-year performance period. The following diagram illustrates 
the operation of the TIP for 2018. The structure for 2019 follows the same pattern as the 2018 TIP however for the 2019 to 
2022 period. 

Performance period  
(1 year)

 – 25% non-financial  

performance conditions
 – 75% financial performance 

conditions

Cash award (50%)

Equity award (50%)

Service period  
(1 year)

Holding lock 
(2 years)

  0

2017

  1

2018

  2

2019

  3

2020

  4

Legend

Cash payment

Grant due

Vesting date

End of holding lock

(III)  TIP: KEY TERMS (2018)
The following table outlines the key terms of the 2018 TIP and the changes for 2019 (other than for relevant periods, being 
2019 to 2022):

Feature

Eligibility

Award opportunity 

Performance period

Description

At the absolute discretion of the Board, the CEO and other Executive KMP were eligible to 
participate in the TIP.
For the CEO and CFO in 2018, target award is 135.3% of fixed remuneration, reflecting the base 
salary reduction implemented from 1 January 2018. Other eligible participants had a target 
award opportunity, which varied between 50% and 60% of fixed remuneration, depending on the 
participant’s role and responsibilities.

Financial awards include incentive over and above the target award when results achieved are 
better than target. KPI awards are capped at 100% of the target opportunity. As a result, the 
maximum incentive for 2018 is 137.5% of the target award.
The award was dependent on performance over a one-year performance period (the 2018 
financial year). There is no opportunity for retesting.

30

Feature

Description

Performance measures

2018 incentive 
payout schedule

Form of award

Equity allocation 
methodology
Clawback

Financial performance conditions (75%) 
For the CEO and other Group Executive KMP, 
performance was measured based on Group 
EBITDA (25%), Group EPS (25%) and Group 
ROIC (25%) per the table below.

Non-financial performance conditions (25%)
Performance was measured against 
specific metrics as determined for each 
participant at the commencement of the 
performance period. 

For divisional Executive KMP, performance 
was measured against their relevant 
divisional EBITDA (50%) and Group 
EBITDA (25%).

These metrics may have included:  
Group/divisional measures (e.g. business 
transformation or market share), and 
individual measures (e.g. leadership 
and development).

The higher weighting of financial to non-financial metrics emphasises the importance the Board 
places on HT&E’s financial performance.

EBITDA and EPS

EBITDA/EPS 
performance
<95% of budget
95% of budget
>95% to <100% 
of budget
100% of budget
>100% to <110% 
of budget
At or above 110% 
of budget

Percentage of target 
opportunity awarded
0%
25%
Pro-rata between 
25% and 100%
100%
Pro-rata between 
100% and 150%
150%

ROIC

ROIC performance

Below threshold1
At threshold
Between threshold 
and budget
At budget
Between budget and 
stretch
At or above stretch

Percentage of target 
opportunity awarded
0%
25%
Pro-rata between 
25% and 100%
100%
Pro-rata between 
100% and 150%
150%

The financial performance award schedule was designed to provide only limited awards where 
performance is below budget, with upside for performance above budget, up to a maximum 
cap of 150%.

Similarly, the non-financial performance award schedule was designed to limit awards below target. 
Upside will only be provided in exceptional circumstances at the absolute discretion of the Board.

EPS in 2018 was based on NPATA and in 2019 will be based on NPAT. ROIC in 2018 was based 
on EBITA and in 2019 will be based on EBIT. Both changes are due to the removal of acquisition 
amortisation from HT&E’s results following the sale of Adshel in 2018.
Awards under the TIP are granted to participants following the assessment of performance. 
To the extent that performance measures were met:
•  50% of awards were made in cash following the assessment of performance; and
•  50% of awards were granted in rights to acquire fully paid ordinary shares in the Company 

for nil consideration (rights).

Subject to the satisfaction of a one-year service period, vested rights will convert to fully paid 
ordinary shares. Vested rights will automatically convert into shares without the requirement 
for the participant to exercise their rights. 

Participants will receive an additional allocation of shares at vesting equal to the dividends paid 
on vested rights over the performance and service periods.

Vested shares will be subject to a further two-year holding lock.
Equity is granted based on the face value of the rights.

The Company may reduce unvested equity awards in certain circumstances such as gross 
misconduct, material misstatement or fraud. The Board may also reduce unvested awards to 
recover amounts where performance that led to payments being awarded is later determined 
to have been incorrectly measured or not sustained.

Remuneration ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 31

Feature

Description

Treatment of awards on 
cessation of employment

Treatment of awards on 
change of control
Treatment of awards on 
sale of a material business

Awards are forfeited for ‘bad’ leavers (e.g. resignation or termination for cause), while ‘good’ 
leavers (e.g. cessation of employment due to redundancy, total disablement or death) receive 
pro-rated awards based on the extent to which performance and service conditions are met.
Participants receive pro-rated awards based on the extent to which performance and service 
conditions are met.
Adshel was sold to oOh!media on 28 September 2018. As part of the sale, Mike Tyquin’s 2017 
and 2018 TIP awards were assessed against the Plan Rules and cash settled as at that date.

(1)  Threshold will be determined with reference to prior year ROIC, next 12-months expected earnings and forecast changes to capitalisation in the budget.

(IV)   OTHER REMUNERATION ARRANGEMENTS, BOARD DISCRETION, AND CLAWBACK OF REMUNERATION
Other remuneration arrangements will be entered into on an ‘as needs’ basis as determined by the Board. These may include 
retention and transaction/project completion incentives. A transaction incentive was awarded to Mike Tyquin in 2018 in 
relation to the sale of Adshel (refer to section D below).

The Board retains the ultimate discretion regarding remuneration outcomes. The Board may make, or cancel (clawback) 
awards where it sees fit to align with remuneration policy and /or Company strategic outcomes.

C.  HOW 2018 REWARD WAS LINKED TO PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
The overall Company performance for 2018 is reflected in the performance indicators below. 2018 results presented below 
reflect the statutory results plus Adshel’s results for the period it was owned by HT&E; earlier results reflect statutory results 
for the respective year. 

Group EBITDA1
Net profit after tax before amortisation (NPAT/NPATA)2
Weighted average number of shares outstanding3
Basic (NPAT/NPATA) EPS2, 3 (cents)
ROIC 4
Dividend paid to shareholders (cents per share)
Increase/(decrease) in share price (%)5

2018

$105.5m
$51.2m

2017
$118.4m
$54.1m

2016
$90.9m
$66.1m
307,528,973 307,696,348 200,039,379
33.1
9.6%
nil
(1%)

17.6
13.4%
7.0
(34%)

16.6
23.9%
79.0
22%

2015
$166.2m
$78.3m

2014
$164.1m
$81.1m
158,127,258 150,784,465
53.8
17.2%
nil
86%

49.5
17.3%
nil
(37%)

(1)  Continuing operations before exceptional items for 2014 to 2017’ 2018 includes Adshel.

(2)  Continuing and discontinued operations before exceptional items and amortisation, attributable to HT&E shareholders. Results reflect Net Profit after 

Tax before amortisation for 2014-2017 and Net Profit after Tax for 2018.

(3)  Adjusted for treasury shares and share buyback in 2018, share consolidation and bonus elements of the 2016 rights issues and placement, and the bonus 

element of the 2014 rights issue.

(4)  Based on EBIT from continuing operations before exceptionals for 2018 and EBITA from continuing operations before exceptional items prior 2018. 

The decline between 2015 and 2017 was due to the demerger of NZME, sale of Australian Regional Media (ARM) and the acquisition of the remaining 50% 
of Adshel and related share issuance.

(5)  2018 closing share price increased to reflect payment of special dividend. 2016 opening share price adjusted for the impact of NZME demerger, share 

consolidation, rights issues and placement. 

32

PERFORMANCE AND IMPACT ON REMUNERATION

(I)  TIP AWARDED IN 2018
HT&E’s continuing operations EBITDA performance in 2018 was slightly behind targets set at the beginning of the year after 
adjusting for the impacts of the Adshel sale due to the slowdown in the radio advertising market from September, while EPS 
and ROIC were both ahead of adjusted targets. Ensuring Adshel continued to deliver results for shareholders during the 
sale process was a critical element of 2018 objectives. As Adshel was owned for nine months of 2018, the Board determined 
that KMP incentives should be based on its inclusion in the Group results up to the point of sale, rather than the statutory 
continuing operations results. Actual performance including Adshel up to its point of sale was better, with Adshel delivering 
above target results for the nine months. 

A component (75%) of the 2018 TIP award was dependent on Group and divisional financial performance relative to target. 
Performance for the 2018 financial year is outlined in the table below: 

2018 TIP financial metrics
EBITDA performance
Group: continuing operations Between threshold  

and target; 98.2% of  
adjusted target achieved
Between target and 
maximum; 100.1% of 
 adjusted target achieved

EPS performance
Between target and 
maximum; 108.7% of  
adjusted target achieved
Between target and 
maximum; 108.2% of 
adjusted target achieved

ROIC performance
Between target and 
maximum; 100.6% of 
adjusted target achieved
Between target and 
maximum; 102.1% of  
adjusted target achieved

Group: continuing 
operations including Adshel 
up to the date of sale 
(28 September 2018)
ARN 

Adshel 

Between threshold  
and target; 98.3% of  
target achieved
Between target and 
maximum; 104.6% of target 
achieved for the period up to 
sale on 28 September 2018

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

The 2016 TIP scheme included EBITDA as the only financial measure of performance; this was expanded in 2017 to include 
EPS and ROIC. The chart below shows over the last three years, group results used for TIP assessment as a percentage of 
adjusted targets, and the corresponding TIP component award outcome: 

t
e
g
d
u
B
s
v

t
n
e
m
e
v
e
h
c
A

i

150%

125%

100%

75%

50%

25%

0%

2016

2017

Year

2018

Stretch target

Budget target

Threshold target

Performance vs adjusted target

EBITDA
EPS (from 2017)
RIOC (from 2017)
Component TIP award

Remuneration ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643 
 
ANNUAL REPORT 2018 33

As a result, TIP awards have been made to the CEO and his continuing direct reports related to 2018 financial measures. A TIP 
award has also been made to Mike Tyquin, reflecting the results achieved in the nine months that Adshel was owned by HT&E; 
this award has been cash settled under the Plan Rules given the sale of Adshel to oOh!media on 28 September 2018. 

Executive KMP also met some or all of their KPI targets. When combined with personal KPI achievements, the above group 
results and related TIP outcomes resulted in Executive KMP TIP outcomes for the CEO, CFO and Group General Counsel and 
Company Secretary of 88–90% in 2016, 16–17% in 2017 and 110–113% in 2018. Divisional KMP TIP outcomes were partly 
determined by group EBITDA, respective divisional EBITDA and KPI achievement, and were 40–53% in 2016, 15–47% in 2017 
and 61–71% in 2018.

The table below summarises the TIP outcomes for 2018:

Executive KMP
Ciaran Davis
Jeff Howard
Yvette Lamont
Rob Atkinson
Mike Tyquin2

TIP awarded 
(cash incentive) 
$
758,883
481,040
130,520
100,762
121,369

TIP awarded
(equity award) 1
$
758,883
481,040
130,520
100,762
121,369

Total TIP 
awarded 
$
1,517,766
962,080
261,040
201,524
242,738

% of target 
achieved
110.0%
111.5%
113.1%
60.6%
71.0%

% of 
maximum 
achieved
80.0%
81.1%
82.3%
44.0%
51.7%

% of 
maximum 
forfeited
20.0%
18.9%
17.7%
56.0%
48.3%

(1)  This differs from the accounting fair value of the equity award (included in section E below), which is calculated in accordance with accounting standards 

and expensed over two financial years, covering both the performance and service periods.

(2)  Reflects pro-rata award for nine months of Adshel under HT&E ownership.

As a result of the above, 829,469 TIP rights have been awarded at 31 December 2018. Other than for Mike Tyquin and 
Rob Atkinson, whose rights have vested and were cash settled, all Executive KMP TIP rights are subject to a one year service 
period and a further two year holding period. For the remaining Executive KMPs the number of rights was increased to 
reflect dividends paid during 2018 in accordance with the Plan Rules. Consequently, 1,119,514 rights over HT&E shares will 
be issued to continuing Executive KMPs to satisfy the 2018 TIP awards. Assuming all remaining rights vest, at 1 January 2019 
the equivalent number of shares associated with these rights was valued at $1,768,832.

(II)  TIP AWARDED IN 2017
A number of Executive KMP received rights associated with the 2017 TIP. These rights were subject to clawback at 
31 December 2018 if certain target thresholds were not met. Based on 2018 results, target thresholds for the 2017 TIP awards 
have been met and consequently the provisional equity rights will not be clawed back. These equity rights have vested as at 
31 December 2018 and are now subject to a holding lock for a further two years, ending on 31 December 2020. 

2017 TIP target 2018 
performance measures
EBITDA1
EPS1
Total vesting

Percentage of TIP grant
50%
50%

Actual/Target performance 
104%
110%

Percentage vested
100%
100%
100%

(1)  In accordance with the 2017 TIP, the Board adjusted the target performance measures to reflect lower group earnings following the sale of Adshel and 

associated capital management. Targets reflect EBITDA/EPS from continuing operations before exceptional items plus the targets for Adshel for the nine 
months of HT&E ownership during 2018.

As a result, 121,682 2017 TIP rights vested at 31 December 2018. The number of rights was increased to reflect dividends paid 
during 2018 in accordance with the Plan Rules. Consequently, 190,857 HT&E shares will be issued to continuing Executive KMP 
to satisfy the vesting of 2017 TIP rights. At 1 January 2019, these shares were valued at $301,554. Consistent with the 2018 
awards, Mike Tyquin’s and Rob Atkinson’s 2017 TIP awards were settled in cash during the year. 

34

D.  ACTUAL REMUNERATION FOR 2018
The following section sets out the value of remuneration which has been received by Executive KMP for the 2018 performance 
year. It also outlines the testing of the 2017 TIP outcomes as occurred on 31 December 2018. 

HT&E’s continuing operations performance in 2018 was solid in a highly competitive media landscape, with EBITDA slightly 
behind, and EPS and ROIC ahead, of targets set at the beginning of the year after adjusting for the impacts of the Adshel sale 
and related capital management. Ensuring Adshel continued to deliver results for shareholders during the sale process was 
a critical element of 2018 objectives. As Adshel was owned for nine months of 2018, the Board determined that Executive 
KMP incentives should be based on its inclusion in the Group results up to the point of sale, rather than the “as reported” 
continuing operations results. Actual performance was in line with (EBITDA) or ahead of (EPS, ROIC) adjusted targets for the 
Group including Adshel up to its date of sale. As a result, TIP awards have been made to the CEO and some of his direct 
reports related to 2018 financial measures. A TIP award was made to Mike Tyquin, reflecting the results achieved in the nine 
months that Adshel was owned by HT&E. 

KMP also met some or all of their personal KPI targets.

TIP awards have been made in accordance with the Plan Rules with 50 per cent paid in cash, and 50 per cent through the 
granting of HT&E equity rights. With the exception of Mike Tyquin, who by virtue of the sale of Adshel is no longer employed by 
an HT&E group company, and Rob Atkinson, who will cease to be employed by an HT&E group company during 2019, granted 
rights are deferred under the TIP rules for a one year service period and a further two year holding period. 

Due to the significance of the Adshel transaction, with regards to the potential for the creation of shareholder value, and risk 
to it if a sale did not complete and the business underperformed during the process, Mike Tyquin was awarded a transaction 
completion cash incentive of $350,000. The quantum of the award was linked to continued performance of the Adshel 
business over the sale period, achieving a certain sale price and completing the sale. No transaction completion incentives 
were paid to other Executive KMP, despite the exceptional sale outcome achieved, and the significant value created for 
shareholders as a result.

A number of KMP received rights associated with the 2017 TIP. These rights were subject to clawback at 31 December 2018 if 
certain target thresholds were not met. Based on 2018 results, target thresholds for the 2017 TIP awards have been met and 
consequently the provisional equity rights will not be clawed back. These equity rights have vested as at 31 December 2018 
and are now subject to a holding lock for a further two years, ending on 31 December 2020. 

For Executive KMP, the number of vesting 2018 and 2017 rights was adjusted in accordance with the Plan Rules for dividends 
paid during 2018. The Board waited until 2018 results were finalised prior to hedging the TIP obligations due to the 
developments with regards to the Adshel sale, associated capital management and anticipated management changes. 

The figures in the following table are different to those shown in the accounting table in section E below because that 
table includes the apportioned accounting value for all vested TIP grants. It also includes accrued long service leave and 
non-monetary benefits provided in addition to an individual’s TFR.

The TIP values represent the cash portion (50%) of the total TIP awarded for each year. Vested LTI in 2017 is the value of 
the 2015 LTI grant which vested at the end of 2017, and in 2016 is the value of the 2014 LTI grant that vested at the end 
of 2016. Vested LTI values reflect the value of shares as at 1 January 2018 consistent with the 2017 Remuneration Report 
(and 1 January 2017 with respect to the 2016 values).

Remuneration ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 35

ACTUAL REMUNERATION

Executive KMP1
Ciaran Davis
2018
2017
2016
Jeff Howard
2018
2017
2016
Yvette Lamont3
2018
2017
2016
Rob Atkinson (from 25 October 2016)
2018
2017
2016
Tony Kendall (until 31 December 2017)
2018
2017
2016
Mike Tyquin (from 3 April 2017 to 28 September 2018)
2018
2017
2016
Total
2018
2017
2016

TFR2
$

TIP 
$

Vested LTI 
$

Other 
$

Total 
$

1,020,000
1,200,000
1,200,000

637,500
750,000
700,000

480,000
480,000
480,000

554,617
546,425
99,252

–
653,306
597,308

427,212
409,228
–

758,883
–
528,955

481,040
–
352,701

130,520
–
132,239

100,762
–
–

–
–
79,595

121,369
–
–

3,119,329
4,038,959
3,076,560

1,592,574
–
1,093,490

164,192
250,642
73,277

102,623
105,256
73,277

34,739
70,171
36,638

43,712
–
–

–
–
–

172,466
–
–

517,732
426,069
183,192

–
–
200,000

1,943,075
1,450,642
2,002,232

–
– 
–

–
–
–

158,796
–
97,013

–
–
–

1,221,163
855,256
1,125,978

645,259
550,171
648,877

857,887
546,425
196,265

–
653,306
676,903

540,399
–
–

1,261,446
409,228
–

699,195
–
297,013

5,928,830
4,465,028
4,650,255

(1)  Table includes 2018 Executive KMP; other previous KMP not impacting 2018 or 2017 have been excluded.

(2)  TFR comprises base salary, superannuation and non-monetary benefits. 

(3)  Yvette Lamont is a member of a defined benefit scheme and her TFR includes $80,000 of contributions to that scheme.

36

E.  TOTAL REMUNERATION FOR EXECUTIVE KMP
Details of the Executive KMP remuneration for 2018 and 2017 are set out in the table below. The remuneration in this table 
has been calculated in accordance with accounting standards and therefore differs from the information included in section D 
of this report.

Short-term benefits

Post-em-
ployment 
benefits

Other 
long-term 
benefits

Cash salary
and fees1
$

Non- 
monetary 
benefits 
$

Cash
incentives2
$

Super- 
annuation 
$

Long- 
service
leave3
$

Share-
based 
payments

Fair value 
of equity
awards4
$

9,557
9,785
10,099

32,302
31,401
32,322

46,434
46,968
48,264

580,333
692,985
642,373

400,000
400,000
400,000

976,965
1,158,551
1,158,315

Ciaran Davis
2018
2017
2016
Jeff Howard
2018
2017
2016
Yvette Lamont5
2018
2017
2016
Rob Atkinson (from 25 October 2016)
2018
2017
2016
Tony Kendall (until 31 December 2017)
2018
2017
2016
Mike Tyquin (from 3 April 2017 to 28 September 2018)
2018
2017
2016
Total
2018
2017
2016

2,903,678
3,826,053
2,874,214

534,326
531,815
95,680

412,054
409,228
–

–
633,474
577,846

25,901
3,038
66,938

–
8,690
–

–
– 
–

758,883
–
728,955

481,040
–
352,701

130,520
–
132,239

303,270
–
97,013

–
–
79,595

834,234
–
–

114,194 2,507,947
–
99,882
1,390,503
157,623

20,290
19,832
19,462

20,290
19,832
19,462

80,000
80,000
83,000

20,290
14,610
3,572

–
19,832
19,462

15,157
13,305
–

(1,437)
44,689
33,452

967,223
572,353
273,218

16,339
11,223
20,171

8,000
8,174
8,094

–
18,225
–

–
381
416

–
–
–

611,657
334,581
67,497

172,822
141,711
16,797

–
22,753
–

–
60,858
49,361

–
73,865
–

156,027
167,411
144,958

22,902
82,692
62,133

1,751,702
1,206,121
406,873

Termi-
nation 
benefits

Total

$

$

– 2,754,226
1,826,826
–
2,245,724
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

1,756,093
1,105,589
1,150,468

800,899
639,670
650,229

883,787
590,441
263,203

–
714,545
726,680

– 1,261,445
505,088
–
–
–

– 7,456,450
5,382,159
–
5,036,304
–

(1)  Cash salary and fees include accrued annual leave paid out as part of salary.

(2)  Cash incentive payments relate to cash TIP awards accrued for the relevant year, and paid in the year following. For Mike Tyquin, cash incentives include 
the transaction completion incentive, and the cash settlement of his pro-rata 2018 and 2017 TIP awards as at 28 September 2018 (the date the Adshel 
sale completed). For Rob Atkinson, cash incentive includes the cash settlement of his 2018 and 2017 TIP awards.

(3)  Long service leave relates to amounts accrued during the year.

(4)  The fair value at grant date is independently determined using a number of methods including the Binomial option pricing model and the Monte-Carlo 
option pricing model which take into account the exercise price, the term of the right, the vesting and performance criteria, the impact of dilution, the 
non-tradeable nature of the right, the share price at grant date and expected price volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield and the 
risk-free interest rate for the term of the right. In 2014, fair value included a reversal of the 2014 LTI EPS portion which resulted in some negative amounts.

(5)  Yvette Lamont is a member of a defined benefit superannuation plan. The amount disclosed above has been determined in accordance with the relevant 

accounting standards and differs from the amounts contributed to the scheme, which were included in the table in section D above.

Remuneration ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 37

F.  CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENTS WITH EXECUTIVE KMP
Remuneration and other terms of employment for the Executive KMP are formalised in employment contracts. All Executive 
KMP are employed under contracts with substantially similar terms. The key elements of these employment contracts are 
summarised below:

Contract duration
Notice by individual/
Company

Termination of 
employment (for cause)
Termination of 
employment (without 
cause)
Redundancy

Non-compete/restraint

Continuing
Employment may be terminated by either party. Notice periods vary according to contractual 
terms: CEO and CFO – 12 months; Group General Counsel and Company Secretary – three 
months; and divisional Chief Executive Officers – six months.
All contracts provide that employment may be terminated at any time without notice for 
serious misconduct.
Where employment is terminated by the Company, payment may be made in lieu of notice.

If the Company terminates the employment of an Executive KMP for reasons of redundancy, a 
redundancy payment would be paid depending on the length of their service, in each case not 
exceeding 12 months of base salary.
Executive KMP are subject to non-compete provisions for the term of their notice period.

G.  NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ARRANGEMENTS

APPROACH
Non-executive Directors are provided with written agreements which outline the fees for their contribution as Directors. Fees 
reflect the demands which are made on, and the responsibilities of, the Directors. The Remuneration Committee has the 
responsibility for reviewing and recommending the level of remuneration for Non-executive Directors in relation to Board and 
Committee duties.

The annual fees provided to Non-executive Directors inclusive of superannuation are shown below:

Role
Board
Audit & Risk Committee
Remuneration Committee
Nomination and Governance Committee

(1)  The Board Chair does not receive Committee fees.

2018
$

2019
$

Chair fee1  Member fee
85,000
212,500
10,000
20,000
10,000
20,000
10,000
20,000

Chair fee1  Member fee
85,000
284,700
10,000
20,000
10,000
20,000
10,000
20,000

The annual fee paid to the Chairman of the HT&E Board was $212,500 for Peter Cosgrove and Robert Kaye, and increased 
to $284,700 from 30 October 2018 on the appointment of Hamish McLennan.

APPROVED FEE POOL
The Non-executive Director fee pool was increased to $1,200,000 per annum following shareholder approval at the 
2015 Annual General Meeting (AGM). There was no change to the Non-executive Director fee pool in 2018 and none 
is expected for 2019.

 
 
 
 
38

Details of the Non-executive Directors’ fees for 2016 to 2018 are set out in the table below:

Director
Hamish McLennan (from 30 October 2018)
2018
2017
2016
Roger Amos (from 30 November 2018)
2018
2017
2016
Paul Connolly
2018
2017
2016
Belinda Rowe (from 5 February 2019)
2018
2017
2016
Peter Cullinane (until 7 May 2018)
2018
2017
2016
Anne Templeman-Jones (until 14 May 2018)
2018
2017
2016
Peter Cosgrove (until 30 June 2018)
2018
2017
20161
Robert Kaye (from 19 February 2018 to 11 September 2018)
2018
2017
2016
Christine Holman (until 3 December 2018)
2018
2017
2016
Total
2018
2017
2016

Fees 
$

Super-
annuation 
$

Retirement 
benefits 
$

46,060
–
–

10,612
–
–

110,813
111,872
114,190

–
–
–

33,808
102,740
109,589

39,047
111,872
118,721

97,032
212,224
210,151

69,769
–
–

98,584
102,740
106,303

505,725
641,448
658,954

3,615
–
–

1,008
–
–

10,527
10,628
10,848

–
–
–

3,212
9,760
10,411

3,709
10,628
11,279

9,218
19,026
19,438

6,628
–
–

9,365
9,760
10,099

47,282
59,802
62,075

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

Total 
$

49,675
–
–

11,620
–
–

121,340
122,500
125,038

–
–
–

37,020
112,500
120,000

42,756
122,500
130,000

106,250
231,250
229,589

76,397
–
–

107,949
112,500
116,402

553,007
701,250
721,029

(1)  In 2016 subsidiaries of HT&E Limited paid Peter Cosgrove an additional $10,907 including superannuation as a Chairman’s fee for Buspak Hong Kong.

Refer to note 6.4 to the consolidated financial statements for details of transactions with related parties. 

Remuneration ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 39

H.  SHARE-BASED REMUNERATION

(I)  TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SHARE-BASED REMUNERATION
2018 TIP Awards

Continuing Executive KMP received a grant of rights under the 2018 TIP during 2018. Based on HT&E’s performance, rights have 
been awarded at the end of 2018 to satisfy TIP outcomes. Other than for Mike Tyquin and Rob Atkinson, whose rights were cash 
settled as outlined in section D above, continuing Executive KMP rights will vest at the end of the one-year service period. The 
table below shows the number and value of 2018 rights that were awarded and remain unvested at the end of 2018. 

Name
Ciaran Davis
Jeff Howard
Yvette Lamont
Rob Atkinson2
Mike Tyquin3 

Vesting 
Grant
date1
date
1 January 2020
2 March 2018
1 January 2020
2 March 2018
1 January 2020
2 March 2018
2 March 2018 19 November 2020
2 March 2018 28 September 2018

Number 
of rights 
granted
359,375
224,610
60,102
86,659
89,003

Number 
of rights 
awarded
395,252
250,542
67,980
52,481
63,214

Number 
of rights 
unvested
–
–
–
34,178
25,789

Value per 
right at 
grant date 
$
1.72
1.72
1.72
1.72
1.72

(1)  The date on which the fair value of the TIP rights was calculated, being the deemed grant date of the rights for accounting purposes. An actual grant 
of rights will not be made to the CEO until shareholder approval has been received at the 2019 AGM, and for all other Executive KMP on a date to be 
determined after this Annual Report has been issued.

(2)  As noted above, Rob Atkinson’s 2018 TIP rights were cash settled on the vesting date in accordance with the Plan Rules. 

(3)  As noted above, Mike Tyquin’s 2018 TIP rights vested on a pro-rata basis on completion of the sale of Adshel on 28 September 2018. They were cash 

settled on that date.

2017 TIP Awards

Executive KMP received a grant of rights under the 2017 TIP during 2017 which vested on 1 January 2019, as described in 
section D above. Only limited grants were made during 2017. The table below shows the number and value of 2017 TIP rights 
that vested at the beginning of 2019:

Name
Ciaran Davis
Jeff Howard
Yvette Lamont
Rob Atkinson2
Tony Kendall
Mike Tyquin3

Grant
date1
10 April 2017
10 April 2017
10 April 2017
10 April 2017
10 April 2017
10 April 2017

Vesting 
date
1 January 2019
1 January 2019
1 January 2019
–
1 January 2019
–

Number  
of rights 
granted
66,255
41,410
14,017
–
8,913
–

Value per 
right at 
grant date 
$
2.58
2.58
2.58
–
2.58
–

(1)  The date on which the fair value of the TIP rights was calculated, being the deemed grant date of the rights for accounting purposes. An actual grant of 

rights was made to the CEO after shareholder approval was received at the 2018 AGM, and for all other Executive KMP on 14 February 2018.

(2)  As noted above, Rob Atkinson’s 2017 TIP rights (17,658 issued on 10 April 2017) were cash settled in accordance with the Plan Rules at the end of 2018.

(3)  As noted above, Mike Tyquin’s 2017 TIP rights (57,260 issued on 10 April 2017) vested on a pro-rata basis on completion of the sale of Adshel, on 28 

September 2018. They were cash settled on that date.

The above rights have now vested and converted into HT&E shares. The Company will satisfy its obligations via an Employee 
Share Trust acquiring HT&E shares on-market during 2019. 

Continuing Executive KMP are unable to trade vested shares until the end of a two-year restriction period as set out in the TIP 
description in section D above. For the 2017 TIP shares, the holding period ends on 31 December 2020. For the 2018 TIP

40

rights, assuming they vest at the end of the service period, the holding period will end on 31 December 2021, other than for 
Mike Tyquin and Rob Atkinson whose rights were cash settled during 2018.

There are no rights to deferred share options or deferred shares.

(II)  RECONCILIATION OF RIGHTS
The table below shows a reconciliation of the number of rights held by each Executive KMP from the beginning to the end of 
the 2018 financial year:

Name
Ciaran Davis2
Vested and exercisable
Unvested
Total
Jeff Howard
Vested and exercisable
Unvested
Total
Yvette Lamont
Vested and exercisable
Unvested
Total
Rob Atkinson
Vested and exercisable
Unvested
Total
Mike Tyquin
Vested and exercisable
Unvested
Total
Total rights
Vested and exercisable
Unvested
Total

Balance at
start of the
year1

Exercised/
Vested

348,261
66,255
414,516

199,308
41,410
240,718

91,060
14,017
105,077

–
17,638
17,638

–
57,260
57,260

(282,006)
(66,255)
(348,261)

(157,898)
(41,410)
(199,308)

(77,043)
(14,017)
(91,060)

17,638
(17,638)
–

57,260
(57,260)
–

Granted

–
395,252
395,252

–
250,542
250,542

–
67,980
67,980

–
52,481
52,481

–
63,214
63,214

Dividend
uplift

Redeemed

Balance at 
end of the 
year

37,664
224,677
262,341

23,541
142,419
165,960

7,970
38,644
46,614

10,028
29,833
39,861

1,999
2,206
4,205

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

(27,666)
(82,314)
(109,980)

(59,259)
(65,420)
(124,679)

103,919
619,929
723,848

64,951
392,961
457,912

21,987
106,624
128,611

–
–
–

–
–
–

638,629
196,580
835,209

(442,049)
(196,580)
(638,629)

–
829,469
829,469

81,202
437,779
518,981

(86,925)
(147,734)
(234,659)

190,857
1,119,514
1,310,371

(1)  Balance at start of the year excluding 41,526 rights attributable to Tony Kendall who was a KMP until 31 December 2017. 

(2)  An actual grant of rights will not be made to the CEO until after shareholder approval has been received at the 2019 AGM.

Remuneration ReportHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 41

DIRECTOR AND EXECUTIVE KMP SHAREHOLDINGS

I. 
The number of shares in the Company held by each Non-executive Director and Executive KMP during the year including their 
related parties is summarised below:

Non-executive Directors
Hamish McLennan1
Roger Amos1
Paul Connolly
Belinda Rowe1
Peter Cullinane2
Anne Templeman-Jones2
Peter Cosgrove2
Robert Kaye2
Christine Holman2
Executive KMP
Ciaran Davis
Jeff Howard
Yvette Lamont
Rob Atkinson
Tony Kendall3
Mike Tyquin3

Balance at 
start of the 
year

Balance at 
end of the 
year 

Change

–
–
65,935
–
31,286
10,116
155,381
–
57,244

71,873
104,066
24,083
– 
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

348,261
199,308
91,060
–
–
–

–
–
65,935
–
31,286
10,116
155,381
–
57,244

420,134
303,374
115,143
–
–
–

(1)  Hamish McLennan became a Non-executive Director on 30 October 2018. Roger Amos became a Non-executive Director on 30 November 2018. 

Belinda Rowe became a Non-executive Director on 5 February 2019. Robert Kaye became a Non-executive Director on 19 February 2018. The balance 
at the start of the year in the table above for the respective individual is the number of shares held at that date. 

(2)  Peter Cullinane retired as a Non-executive Director on 7 May 2018. Anne Templeman-Jones retired as a Non-executive Director on 14 May 2018. 
Peter Cosgrove retired as a Non-executive Director on 30 June 2018. Robert Kaye retired as a Non-executive Director on 11 September 2018. 
Christine Holman retired as a Non-executive Director on 3 December 2018. The balance at the end of the year in the table above for the respective 
individual is the number of shares held at that date.

(3)  Tony Kendall ceased to be an Executive KMP on 31 December 2017. Mike Tyquin ceased to be an Executive KMP on 28 September 2018. The balance at the 

end of the year in the table above is the number of shares held at that date.

J.  OTHER STATUTORY DISCLOSURES

(I)  LOANS GIVEN TO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE KMP
There are no loans from the Company to the Non-executive Directors or Executive KMP.

(II)  SECURITIES TRADING POLICY AND GUIDELINES
The Company’s Securities Trading Policy and Guidelines is outlined in the Corporate Governance Statement, which can be 
found on the Company website. Under the policy, restricted persons, which include KMP, are not permitted to hedge any 
options, rights or similar instruments prior to them becoming vested or otherwise tradable under the applicable plan.

(III)  VOTING AND COMMENTS MADE AT THE COMPANY’S 2018 AGM
The Company received more than 84% of ‘yes’ votes on its Remuneration Report for the 2017 financial year, and more than 
99% of ‘yes’ votes to the granting of deferred rights to the CEO. No major remuneration related concerns were raised which 
required the Company’s attention during the 2018 financial year.

(IV)  EXTERNAL REMUNERATION CONSULTANTS
During 2018, HT&E made use of external remuneration consultants. No recommendations in relation to KMP remuneration 
were provided during 2018.

42

Remuneration Report

All advice from remuneration consultants is carefully considered by the Remuneration Committee. The Committee is satisfied 
that all advice received from remuneration consultants has been given free of undue influence by KMP.

(V)  RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
During 2017, HT&E entered into an arrangement with MediaCap Fund No. 1 Trust (Trust) to potentially provide advertising 
inventory to the Trust in return for equity investment in as-yet-to-be identified start-up, high growth organisations. The 
Trust and MediaCap Pty Limited (Trustee) were deemed to be related parties of HT&E under the Corporations Act 2001 
as Peter Cosgrove was Chairman of the Board of HT&E as well as on the Investment Committee of the Trust, and was a 
shareholder of the Trustee. 

During the year, Mr Cosgrove sold his shares in the Trustee and retired as a Director of HT&E. MediaCap ceased to be a 
related party of HT&E on 11 May 2018. 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 64345 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2017 

A.B.N. 95 008 637 643 

ANNUAL REPORT 2018 43

Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2018 

43 

Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 
Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

A.B.N. 95 008 637 643

As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2018, I declare that to the best of 
my knowledge and belief, there have been: 

(a)  no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the 

As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2017, I declare that to 
the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:  

audit; and

(a)

(b)  no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.
As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2018, I declare that to the best of my 
This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period.
knowledge and belief, there have been:  

no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit;
and

(b)

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

(a) no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and

This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 

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

This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 

MK Graham 
Partner 

MK Graham 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

PricewaterhouseCoopers

MK Graham 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Sydney 
15 February 2018 

Sydney 
13 February 2019

Sydney 
13 February 2019 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 
Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

44

Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

ABOUT THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The financial statements are for the consolidated entity consisting of HT&E Limited (Company) and its controlled entities 
(collectively the Group). The Company is a for profit company limited by ordinary shares, incorporated and domiciled in 
Australia. The ordinary shares are publicly traded on the Australian Securities Exchange. 

The financial statements were authorised for issue, in accordance with a resolution of Directors, on 13 February 2019. 
The Directors have the power to amend and reissue the financial statements.

BASIS OF PREPARATION
This general purpose financial report has been prepared in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, Australian Accounting 
Standards and Interpretations issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) and International Financial 
Reporting Standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). 

All new and amended Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations issued by the AASB that are relevant to the Group 
and effective for the current reporting period have been adopted. Refer to note 6.5 for further details.

The financial report is presented in Australian dollars which is the Company’s functional and presentation currency.

It has been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of certain financial assets and 
liabilities (including derivative instruments) and certain classes of property, plant and equipment.

The Company presents reclassified comparative information, where required, for consistency with the current year’s 
presentation.

The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Corporations (Rounding in Financial/Directors’ Reports) Instrument 2016/191, issued 
by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, relating to the rounding off of amounts in the financial report. 
Amounts in the financial report have been rounded off in accordance with that Instrument to the nearest thousand dollars, 
or in certain cases, the nearest dollar.

KEY JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES
The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, 
seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material 
adjustment to the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities within the next and subsequent years can be found in the 
following notes:

Note 2.1 Intangible assets; and

Note 4.1 Income tax and deferred tax.

SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN THE CURRENT REPORTING PERIOD
During the current financial year, the financial position and performance of the Group were particularly affected by the 
following events and transactions:

Sale of Adshel

The Company announced on 28 September 2018 that it had completed the sale of Adshel (previously disclosed as Adshel 
operating segment) to oOh!media Limited for $570 million. This includes the Australian and New Zealand entities, Adshel 
Street Furniture Pty Limited A.C.N. 000 081 872 and Adshel New Zealand Limited C.N.902243 respectively. Refer to note 6.1 
for more information. 

After paying associated transaction costs and any completion adjustments, net proceeds on completion were used to pay 
down existing debt, pay a special dividend (refer to note 3.8) and commence a share buyback (refer to note 3.5). 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643Consolidated Income 
Statement 

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2018

Revenue from continuing operations
Other revenue and income
Total revenue and other income
Expenses from continuing operations before finance costs, depreciation 
and amortisation
Finance costs
Depreciation and amortisation
Share of profits of associates
Profit before income tax
Income tax expense
Profit from continuing operations
Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations
Profit/(loss) for the year
Profit/(loss) for the year is attributable to:
Owners of the parent entity
Non-controlling interests
Profit/(loss) for the year

Earnings per share from continuing operations
Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share
Earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations
Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share

ANNUAL REPORT 2018 45

2018 
$’000

271,777
8,433
280,210
(206,964)

(6,992)
(4,639)
468
62,083
(19,063)
43,020
188,009
231,029

225,544
5,485
231,029

Restated*
2017 
$’000
259,928
7,484
267,412
(197,124)

(9,172)
(6,542)
1,252
55,826
(17,382)
38,444
(149,375)
(110,931)

(117,486)
6,555
(110,931)

Cents

Cents

12.2
12.2

73.3
73.1

10.4
10.4

(38.2)
(38.2)

Note
1.1
1.1

1.2

1.2
1.2
5.4

4.1

6.1

1.4
1.4

1.4
1.4

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

*  The Group has initially applied AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and AASB 9 Financial Instruments at 1 January 2018. Under the transition 

methods chosen, comparative information is restated for the implementation of AASB 15. Refer to notes 1.1 and note 3.3 respectively.

46

Consolidated Statement of 
Comprehensive Income 

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2018

Profit/(loss) for the year
Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss
Net exchange difference on translation of foreign operations
Net gain on fair value hedges
Reclassification of foreign currency translation reserve to profit or loss on sale 
of Adshel 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Total comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income is attributable to:
Owners of the parent entity
Non-controlling interests

Total comprehensive income attributable to owners  
of the parent entity arises from:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations

Note

3.7
3.7
3.7

2018 
$’000

231,029

1,746
544
3,504

Restated*
2017 
$’000
(110,931)

(5,536)
2
–

5,794
236,823

(5,534)
(116,465)

231,338
5,485
236,823

(123,020)
6,555
(116,465)

38,437
192,901
231,338

31,779
(154,799)
(123,020)

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

*  The Group has initially applied AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and AASB 9 Financial Instruments at 1 January 2018. Under the transition 

methods chosen, comparative information is restated for the implementation of AASB 15. Refer to notes 1.1 and note 3.3 respectively.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643Consolidated 
Balance Sheet 

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2018

Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Inventories
Other current assets
Total current assets
Non-current assets
Shares in other corporations
Investments accounted for using the equity method
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Deposit of tax in dispute
Other non-current assets
Total non-current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Payables
Contract liabilities 
Current tax liabilities
Provisions
Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Derivative liabilities
Provisions
Deferred tax liabilities
Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
Equity
Contributed equity
Reserves
Accumulated losses
Total parent entity interest
Non-controlling interests
Total equity

ANNUAL REPORT 2018 47

Note

3.2
2.3

5.3
5.4
2.2
2.1
4.1

1.1
4.1
2.4

3.1

2.4
4.1

3.5
3.7
3.7

2018 
$’000

Restated*
2017 
$’000

128,355
55,177
–
2,265
185,797

35,403
18,829
16,650
429,585
50,670
11,188
562,325
748,122

24,250
10,773
11,566
6,983
53,572

610
–
–
4,250
117,558
122,418
175,990
572,132

18,773
91,006
2,344
9,332
121,455

33,279
18,696
84,098
769,235
–
2,937
908,245
1,029,700

60,003
5,993
20,218
14,021
100,235

2,632
133,077
778
19,700
150,599
306,786
407,021
622,679

1,492,555
(43,809)
(913,478)
535,268
36,864
572,132

1,531,567
(50,712)
(895,095)
585,760
36,919
622,679

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

*  The Group has initially applied AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and AASB 9 Financial Instruments at 1 January 2018. Under the transition 

methods chosen, comparative information is restated for the implementation of AASB 15. Refer to notes 1.1 and note 3.3 respectively.

48

Consolidated Statement
of Cash Flows 

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2018

Cash flows from operating activities
Receipts from customers (inclusive of GST)
Payments to suppliers and employees (inclusive of GST)
Dividends received
Interest received 
Interest paid 
Income taxes paid
Prepayment of tax in dispute
Net cash (outflows)/inflows from operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Payments for property, plant and equipment
Payments for software
Payments for other intangible assets
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Investment in associates
Net proceeds/(payments) from sale of businesses
Loans to joint ventures
Net loans repaid by other entities
Dividends received from associate
Net cash inflows/(outflows) from investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings
Repayments of borrowings
Payments for borrowing costs
Payments for treasury shares
Dividends paid to shareholders
Payments for share buyback
Net payments to non-controlling interests
Net cash outflows from financing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
Effect of exchange rate changes
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

Note

2018 
$’000

Restated*
2017 
$’000

465,017
(386,839)
4,878
1,002
(7,395)
(31,199)
(50,670)
(5,206)

(17,484)
(3,136)
(6)
59
–
564,553
(6,294)
312
1,250
539,254

97,000
(230,792)
(2,078)
(197)
(244,039)
(39,012)
(5,540)
(424,658)
109,390
18,773
192
128,355

516,421
(426,195)
4,150
213
(9,075)
(10,360)
–
75,154

(11,584)
(3,922)
(1,849)
25
(3,687)
(878)
(700)
812
–
(21,783)

81,506
(110,416)
–
(1,779)
(17,978)
–
(5,514)
(54,181)
(810)
20,223
(640)
18,773

3.2

3.7
3.8
3.5

3.2

The above consolidated statement of cash flows includes cash flows from continuing and discontinued operations and should 
be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

*  The Group has initially applied AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and AASB 9 Financial Instruments at 1 January 2018. Under the transition 

methods chosen, comparative information is restated for the implementation of AASB 15. Refer to notes 1.1 and note 3.3 respectively.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 49

Consolidated Statement 
of Changes in Equity 

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2018

Balance at 1 January 2017
Change in accounting policy
Restated total equity at 
beginning of the period 
1 January 2017
(Loss)/Profit for the period
Other comprehensive income
Share-based payments expense
Dividends paid
Shares issued under dividend 
reinvestment plan
Acquisition of treasury shares
Transactions with 
non-controlling interests
Balance at 31 December 2017
Balance at 1 January 2018
Profit for the period
Other comprehensive income
Share-based payments 
Share buy-back
Dividends paid
Transfers within equity
Treasury shares vested 
to employees
Acquisition of treasury shares
Transactions with 
non-controlling interests
Balance at 31 December 2018

Note

Contributed 
 equity 
$’000
1,528,022
–
1,528,022

Reserves 
$’000
(45,347)
–
(45,347)

–
–
–
–
3,545

–
–

1,531,567
1,531,567
–
–
–
(39,012)
–
–
–

–
–

3.7
3.8
3.5

3.7

3.7
3.5
3.8
3.7
3.7

3.7

–
(5,534)
1,948
–
–

(1,779)
–

(50,712)
(50,712)
–
5,794
594
–
–
(112)
824

(197)
–

Accumu-
lated 
 losses 
$’000
(682,088)
(73,997)
(756,085)

(117,486)
–
–
(21,524)
–

Non- 
controlling 
 interests 
$’000
35,878
–
35,878

6,555
–
–
–
–

Total 
$’000

800,587
(73,997)
726,590

(117,486)
(5,534)
1,948
(21,524)
3,545

Total 
equity 
$’000

836,465
(73,997)
762,468

(110,931)
(5,534)
1,948
(21,524)
3,545

–
–

(1,779)
–

–
(5,514)

(1,779)
(5,514)

(895,095)
(895,095)
225,544
–
–
–
(244,039)
112
–

585,760
585,760
225,544
5,794
594
(39,012)
(244,039)
–
824

36,919
36,919
5,485
–
–
–
–
–
–

622,679
622,679
231,029
5,794
594
(39,012)
(244,039)
–
824

–
–

(197)
–

–
(5,540)

(197)
(5,540)

1,492,555

(43,809)

(913,478)

535,268

36,864

572,132

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

*  The Group has initially applied AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and AASB 9 Financial Instruments at 1 January 2018. Under the transition 

methods chosen, comparative information is restated for the implementation of AASB 15. Refer to notes 1.1 and note 3.3 respectively.

50

Notes to the 
Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

1 

GROUP PERFORMANCE

1.1  REVENUES

Revenue and other income
From continuing operations
Broadcast revenue
Advertising revenue
Services revenue
Other revenue
Revenue from continuing operations
Gain on financial assets held at fair value through profit or loss
Dividend income
Other
Other income
Interest income
Finance income
Total other revenue and income
Total revenue and other income
From discontinued operations
Total revenue and other income
Gain on sale 

Note

2018 
$’000

Restated*
2017 
$’000

217,358
46,053
8,132
234
271,777
1,912
4,878
639
7,429
1,004
1,004
8,433
280,210

6.1
6.1

153,342
164,845

216,553
36,042
6,755
578
259,928
2,803
4,150
429
7,382
102
102
7,484
267,412

228,150
–

*  The Group has initially applied AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers at 1 January 2018. Under the transition methods chosen, comparative 

information is restated. Changes in revenue accounting policy due to adoption of AASB 15 are detailed below. 

The Group derives revenue from the transfer of services over time and at a point in time in the following major service lines 
and geographical regions:

Timing of revenue recognition
Over time 
Broadcast revenue
Advertising revenue
At a point in time
Services revenue
Other revenue
Total

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

Australia

Asia

Australia

Asia

217,358 
 23,317 

–
22,736 

216,553 
17,637 

–
 234 
240,909 

 8,132 
–
30,868 

–
578
234,768 

–
18,405

6,755 
–
25,160 

Revenue recognised in the year ended 31 December 2018 that was included in contract liabilities balance as at 1 January 2018 
is $6.0 million. 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 51

1.1  REVENUES (CONTINUED)

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING STANDARDS 
AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers establishes a comprehensive framework for determining the quantum 
and timing of revenue recognition. The AASB equivalent of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contract with Customers replaced IAS 18 
Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts and related interpretations. 

(a) Impact on opening retained earnings and financial statements

The Group has adopted AASB 15 using the full retrospective approach with changes reflected in each prior reporting 
period presented. The impact, net of tax, of transition to AASB 15 on retained earnings as at 1 January 2017 was 
immaterial and therefore no adjustment posted. 

Implementation of AASB 15 resulted in a reclassification of deferred revenue to contract liabilities of $10.8 million as at 
31 December 2018 for continuing and discontinued operations (2017: $6.0 million). Consistent with the new accounting 
standard, revenue and expenses from continuing operations for the 12 months ended 31 December 2018 increased for 
rebates and contra revenue of $0.6 million and $5.4 million respectively (2017: $1.0 million and $5.5 million respectively). 
Revenue and expenses from discontinued operations increased $3.4 million for rebates (2017: $6.8 million). 

There was no other material impact on the Group’s consolidated income statement, statement of comprehensive income 
and statement of cash flows for the 12 months ended 31 December 2018. 

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Revenue 
The Group has concluded AASB 15 does not have a significant impact on the Group’s existing revenue accounting policies. 
The key revenue streams and policies are detailed below: 

Under AASB 15, revenue is recognised when a customer obtains control of the goods or services. Determining the timing 
of the transfer of control requires judgement. The Group recognises revenue when:
•  The amount of revenue can be reliably measured;
• 
•  The criteria for revenue recognition for each revenue stream have been satisfied.

It is probable the economic benefit will flow to the Group; and

Revenue is recognised gross of rebates and agency commissions. Payment terms vary between 30 to 45 days from the 
invoice issue date. 

52

1.1  REVENUES (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY (CONTINUED) 

Type of product/
service
Broadcast revenue ARN

Segment

Media display 
advertising 
revenue

Services revenue

ARN, HK 
Outdoor, Adshel 
(discontinued 
operations)
All

Other revenue

All

Nature and timing of satisfaction of performance obligations
Revenue is recognised over time based on the contract term. The advertising 
benefits are transferred to the customer when each advertisement is aired 
per the contract terms.
Similar to broadcast revenue, revenue is recognised over time, when the 
advertisement is displayed or published. 

Includes production and installation revenue. Production and installation 
revenue, where it is a distinct service, is recognised by reference to stage of 
completion of the service. 
Includes sponsorships, royalties, sale of street furniture (discontinued 
operation) and cleaning and maintenance revenue. Revenue is recognised 
when the service occurs. 

Contract costs 
The Group applies the practical expedient under AASB 15 to expense contract acquisition costs as they are incurred, as 
the expected costs have an amortisation period of less than 12 months. 

Contract assets and liabilities 
Contract assets relate primarily to the Group’s rights to consideration for work completed but not billed at each reporting 
date. Contract assets are transferred to receivables when the rights become unconditional. This usually occurs when the 
Group issues an invoice to a customer. 

Contract liabilities primarily relate to consideration received in advance from customers, for which the performance 
obligation is yet to be satisfied.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 53

Note

2018 
$’000

Restated*
2017 
$’000

100,683
19,238
41,913
29,970
1,849
3,205
478
(1,367)
10,995
206,964
6,445
547
6,992
3,872
767
4,639

100,216
18,161
38,159
26,975
1,900
2,675
907
–
8,131
197,124
8,118
1,054
9,172
5,673
869
6,542

7,642

7,409

14,046
5,764
294

14,565
2,596
246

6.1

121,463

372,636

1.2  EXPENSES

From continuing operations
Employee benefits expense
Production and distribution expense
Selling and marketing expense
Rental and occupancy expense
Repairs and maintenance costs
Travel and entertainment costs
Onerous contract and other costs
Write-back of acquisition costs
Other expenses
Total expenses before finance costs, depreciation and amortisation
Interest and finance charges 
Borrowing costs amortisation
Total finance costs
Depreciation
Amortisation
Total depreciation and amortisation
Rental expense relating to operating leases
Property
Outdoor site rentals
  Minimum lease payments
  Contingent rentals
  Other
From discontinued operations
Total expenses

*  The Group has initially applied AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers at 1 January 2018. Under the transition methods chosen, comparative 

information is restated. Changes in revenue accounting policy due to adoption of AASB 15 are detailed in note 1.1.

54

1.3  SEGMENT INFORMATION
(I)  DESCRIPTION OF SEGMENTS
The Group has identified its operating segments based on the internal reports reviewed by the Board of Directors and the 
senior management team in assessing performance and determining the allocation of resources. There are three reportable 
segments as follows:

Principal activities

Reportable segment
Australian Radio Network Metropolitan radio networks (Australia) and digital advertising
HK Outdoor
Digital Investments

Billboard, transit and other outdoor advertising (Hong Kong)
Includes controlling interests in Emotive and equity accounted investments in Soprano Design 
Limited, HT&E Events Pty Limited and Unbnd Group Pty Ltd.

The Directors and senior management team assess the performance of the operating segments based on a measure of 
earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) from continuing operations which excludes the effects 
of exceptional items such as gains or losses on disposals of businesses and restructuring related costs.

The sale of the Adshel business was completed on 28 September 2018. The Adshel business segment is included as a 
discontinued operations in note 6.1. 

In 2018, Conversant Media was transferred from the Digital Investments segment to the Australian Radio Network segment. 
The operations of Conversant Media were fully integrated with the Australian Radio Network in 2018. Therefore, it was 
considered appropriate to report the results of Conversant Media as part of the Australian Radio Network segment. 
Comparatives have been restated to reflect this change.

(II)  RESULTS BY OPERATING SEGMENT
The segment information provided to the Directors and senior management team for the year ended 31 December 2018 is 
as follows:

Australian 
Radio 

Network HK Outdoor
30,871
235,483
–
–
1,206
84,596
22,540
524,227
12,376
22,295

2018 
Corporate
$’000
–
Revenue from external customers
–
Share of profits of associates
(15,244)
Segment result
170,701
Segment assets
Segment liabilities
137,758
Reconciliation of segment result to profit before income tax from continuing operations
Segment result
Depreciation and amortisationA
Net finance costs
Lease costsB
Other costsC
Profit before income tax from continuing operations

Digital 
Investments
5,688
468
1,263
30,654
3,561

Group  
elimination
(265)
–
–
–
–

Total

271,777
468
71,821
748,122
175,990

71,821
(4,639)
(5,988)
(478)
1,367
62,083

Explanation of statutory adjustments

(A)  Consists of depreciation of $3.9 million and amortisation of $0.8 million. Refer to note 1.2. 

(B)  Decommissioning and onerous lease costs relating to Hong Kong.

(C)  Reversal of earn-out provision related to the 2016 Conversant Media acquisition.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 55

Group
elimination
(1,867)
–
–
–
–

Restated*

total

259,928
1,252
66,922
572,168
346,618

66,922
(6,542)
(9,070)
5,423
(907)
55,826

1.3  SEGMENT INFORMATION (CONTINUED)
(II)  RESULTS BY OPERATING SEGMENT (CONTINUED)

Australian 
Radio 

Network HK Outdoor
25,161
229,444
–
–
(1,761)
83,354
15,170
523,433
7,949
27,379

2017
Corporate
$’000
Revenue from external customers
–
Share of profits of associates
–
Segment result
(15,847)
Segment assets
9,875
307,709
Segment liabilities
Reconciliation of segment result to profit before income tax from continuing operations
Segment result
Depreciation and amortisationA
Net finance costs
Licence fee relief B
Other costsC
Profit before income tax from continuing operations

Digital 
Investments
7,190
1,252
1,176
23,690
3,581

Explanation of statutory adjustments

(A)  Consists of depreciation of $5.7 million (including $0.8 million exceptional item for prior year makegood depreciation) and amortisation of $0.9 million. 

Refer to note 1.2. 

(B)  One-off benefit from the retrospective application of Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) licence fee relief for the prior period 

announced by the Australian Government in June 2017. This is included in other expenses in note 1.2.

(C)  Refers mainly to restructuring costs associated with the Australian Radio Network division.

*  The Group has initially applied AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers at 1 January 2018. Under the transition methods chosen, comparative 

information is restated. Changes in revenue accounting policy due to adoption of AASB 15 are detailed in note 1.1.

(III)  OTHER SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Group is domiciled in Australia and operates predominantly in Australia and with the HK Outdoor business based 
in Asia. Revenue from external customers in Australia is $240.9 million (2017: $234.8 million) and in Asia is $30.9 million 
(2017: $25.2 million). Segment revenues are allocated based on the country in which the customer is located.

The total of non-current assets located in Australia is $556.8 million (2017: $733.0 million), in New Zealand is $nil (2017: 
$170.3 million) and in Asia is $5.5 million (2017: $4.9 million). Segment assets are allocated to countries based on where 
the assets are located.

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Segment revenues and expenses comprise amounts that are directly attributable to a segment and the relevant portion 
that can be allocated on a reasonable basis. Corporate overheads, including centralised finance, legal and administrative 
costs, are not allocated against operating segments but rather are included above as unallocated amounts. 

Segment revenues and results exclude transfers between segments. Such transfers are priced on an arm’s length basis 
and are eliminated on consolidation.

56

1.4  EARNINGS PER SHARE

(a) Reconciliation of earnings used in calculating earnings per share (EPS)
Profit from continuing operations attributable to owners of the parent entity
Profit/(Loss) from discontinued operations attributable to owners of the parent entity
Profit/(Loss) attributable to owners of the parent entity used in calculating basic/diluted EPS

(b) Weighted average number of shares
Weighted average number of shares used as the denominator in calculating basic EPS
Weighted average number of treasury shares
Adjusted for calculation of diluted EPS
Unvested/unexercised rights
Weighted average number of shares used as the denominator in calculating diluted EPS

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

37,535
188,009
225,544

31,889
(149,375)
(117,486)

Number

Number

307,611,412 308,159,504
(463,156)

(82,439)

1,092,545

243,573
308,621,518 307,939,921

While rights have been issued to Key Management Personnel under the 2018 Total Incentive Plan (TIP), there is no certainty 
these rights will vest, and if they do, it is the Company’s current intention to satisfy any rights by acquiring shares on-market, 
consistent with recent practice. 

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Basic earnings per share 
Basic earnings per share is determined by dividing:
•  the net profit or loss attributable to owners of the Company; by
•  the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the financial year, adjusted for bonus elements 

in ordinary shares issued during the financial year.

Diluted earnings per share 
Diluted earnings per share adjusts the figures used in the determination of basic earnings per share by taking into account:
•  the after-tax effect of interest and other financing costs associated with dilutive potential ordinary shares; and
•  the weighted average number of additional ordinary shares that would have been outstanding assuming the 

conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 57

2  OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

2.1 

INTANGIBLE ASSETS

2017 
$’000
Cost
Accumulated amortisation 
and impairment
Net book amount
Movements
Opening net book amount
Additions
Disposals
Impairment
Amortisation
Foreign exchange differences
Closing net book amount

2018
$’000
Cost
Accumulated amortisation 
and impairment
Net book amount
Movements
Opening net book amount
Additions 1
Sale of Adshel 2
Transfers and other adjustments
Amortisation 1
Foreign exchange differences 1
Closing net book amount

(1) Movements partially relate to Adshel prior to sale. 

(2) Refer to note 6.1 for further details.

Goodwill
434,502
(160,706)

Software
8,219
(4,406)

Radio 
licences
375,284
(3,114)

Brands
6,698
(2,075)

Licences and 
relationships
130,325
(15,492)

Total

955,028
(185,793)

273,796

3,813

372,170

4,623

114,833

769,235

437,588
–
–
(160,706)
–
(3,086)
273,796

258
4,024
–
–
(363)
(106)
3,813

Goodwill
55,081
–

Software
4,544
(3,183)

374,006
–
(1,200)
–
(636)
–
372,170

Radio
licences
375,284
(3,670)

6,712
11
–
–
(2,080)
(20)
4,623

132,236
–
–
(2,634)
(12,954)
(1,815)
114,833

Brands
1,945
(416)

Licences and 
relationships
–
–

950,800
4,035
(1,200)
(163,340)
(16,033)
(5,027)
769,235

Total

436,854
(7,269)

55,081

1,361

371,614

1,529

–

429,585

273,796
–
(219,733)
–
–
1,018
55,081

3,813
3,136
(6,476)
1,238
(350)
–
1,361

372,170
–
–
–
(556)
–
371,614

4,623
6
(2,149)
–
(956)
5
1,529

114,833
–
(110,029)
–
(5,329)
525
–

769,235
3,142
(338,387)
1,238
(7,191)
1,548
429,585

58

2.1 

INTANGIBLE ASSETS (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Summary of goodwill and other intangible assets

Asset
Goodwill
Software 
Radio licences (commercial) – Australia 
Radio licence (digital) – Australia
Brands – Adshel and Conversant Media 3–10 years
Brands – other 
Licences and relationships

Useful life
Indefinite
3–5 years
Indefinite
11 years

Indefinite
10–15 years

Amortisation method 
No amortisation
Straight line basis
No amortisation
Straight line basis 
Straight line basis
No amortisation
Straight line basis

Internally generated or acquired
Acquired
Internally generated and acquired
Acquired
Acquired 
Acquired
Acquired 
Acquired

Goodwill 
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable 
assets of the acquired business at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is not amortised but rather is subject to periodic 
impairment testing as described below. 

Software 
Costs incurred in developing systems and acquiring software and licences are capitalised to software. Costs capitalised 
include materials, services, payroll and payroll related costs of employees involved in development. Amortisation is 
calculated on a straight line basis over the useful life of the asset. 

Radio licences – Australia 
Commercial radio licences are accounted for as identifiable assets and are brought to account at cost. The Directors 
believe the licences have indefinite lives and accordingly, no amortisation has been provided against the carrying amount. 
The commercial radio licences held by the Group are renewable every five years under the provisions of the Broadcasting 
Services Act 1992 and the Directors have no reason to believe that the licences will not be renewed from time to time for 
the maximum period allowable under the Act and without imposition of any conditions. 

The digital radio licence is accounted for as an identifiable asset and is brought to account at cost. The licence is amortised 
over the term of the contract on a straight line basis. 

Brands 
Brands are accounted for as identifiable assets and are brought to account at cost. The Directors have considered the 
geographic location, legal, technical and other commercial factors likely to impact the assets’ useful lives and consider that 
they have indefinite lives. Accordingly, no amortisation has been provided against the carrying amount for brands outside 
of Adshel and Conversant Media. 

Licences and relationships 
Licences and relationships represent future income streams attributable to site licences and associated relationships. 
They are accounted for as identifiable assets and carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and any accumulated 
impairment loss. They are amortised on a straight line basis.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 59

2.1 

INTANGIBLE ASSETS (CONTINUED)

YEAR-END IMPAIRMENT REVIEW

YEAR-END IMPAIRMENT REVIEW

KEY JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES 
The Group annually tests whether goodwill and other non-amortising intangible assets have suffered any impairment, 
in accordance with the accounting policy stated above. The recoverable amounts of cash generating units have been 
determined based on the higher of fair value less costs to sell, or value in use calculations. These calculations require the use 
of assumptions. Refer below for details of these assumptions and the potential impact of changes to these assumptions. 

ALLOCATION OF GOODWILL AND OTHER NON-AMORTISING INTANGIBLE ASSETS TO CASH GENERATING 
UNITS (CGUS)

Name of CGU
Australian Radio Network1
HK Outdoor
Adshel – Australia
Adshel – New Zealand
Emotive
Total goodwill and other non-amortising intangible assets

(1)  Conversant Media integrated into ARN CGU. Refer to note 1.3.

(2)  Goodwill has reduced due to the sale of Adshel. Refer to note 6.1. 

2018 
$’000 
Other non- 
amortising 
intangibles

367,451
–
–
–
–
367,451

2018 
$’000
Goodwill2

51,494
3,097
–
–
490
55,081

2017 
$’000 
Other non- 
amortising 
intangibles
367,451
–
–
–
–
367,451

2017 
$’000 
Goodwill
51,494
2,917
127,424 
91,471
490
273,796

(IV)  YEAR-END IMPAIRMENT REVIEW OF CGUS INCLUDING INDEFINITE LIFE INTANGIBLE ASSETS
A comprehensive impairment review was conducted at 31 December 2018. The recoverable amount of each CGU that 
includes goodwill or indefinite life intangible assets was reviewed.

The recoverable amount of the Australian Radio Network and HK Outdoor CGUs were based on value in use calculations, 
using management budgets and forecasts for a 3 year period after adjusting for central overheads. 

The key assumptions used to calculate the recoverable amount are:

60

2.1 

INTANGIBLE ASSETS (CONTINUED)

(i)  Cash flows

Year 1 cash flows
Years 2 and 3 cash flows

Based on Board approved annual budget.
Revenue forecasts are prepared based on management’s current assessment for each CGU, 
with consideration given to internal information and relevant external industry data and analysis. 
In general:

•  market growth in the Australian Radio Network CGU is forecast across the cash flow period. 
The revenue forecast assumes the Australian Radio Network CGU will gain additional market 
share or reclaim lost market share through continued investment in content, marketing and 
operations; 

•  market growth in HK Outdoor CGU is forecast across the cash flow period. The revenue 

forecast assumes HK Outdoor CGU will gain additional market share through investment in 
sales and marketing capabilities and key site contracts. Future yield growth in the existing asset 
base is also assumed; and

•  expenses are forecast on a detailed basis, based on their nature. Variable costs are forecast 
to move in line with revenue movements. Personnel costs are forecast to move in line with 
headcount and adjusted for expected inflation. Other costs are forecast based on management 
expectations, considering existing contractual arrangements.

Beyond 3 year cash flows

Cash flows beyond three years are extrapolated at growth rates not exceeding the long-term 
average growth rate for the industry in which the CGU operates.

(ii)  Discount rate and long-term growth rate
The discount rates used reflect specific risks relating to the relevant segments and the countries in which they operate.

Name of CGU
Australian Radio Network
HK Outdoor

No impairment was recognised for these CGUs at 31 December 2018.

2018 
Post-tax  
discount rate  
per annum

2018 
Long-term 
growth rate  
per annum

10.0%
10.0%

2.0%
2.0%

2017 
Post-tax  
discount rate  
per annum
10.0%
10.0%

2017 
Long-term 
growth rate  
per annum
2.0%
2.0%

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Impairment 
Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually 
for impairment and whenever there is an indication that they may be impaired. Assets that are subject to amortisation 
are tested for impairment whenever changes in circumstances indicate that the asset’s carrying amount may exceed its 
recoverable amount. An impairment charge is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its 
recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell, and value in use. For 
the purpose of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable 
cash inflows which are largely independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets (CGUs). Non-financial 
assets other than goodwill that suffer an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at each 
reporting date. 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 61

Freehold 
land
1,083
–
–
1,083

Buildings
707
(82)
–
625

Plant and 
equipment
247,032
(176,788)
12,146
82,390

Total

248,822
(176,870)
12,146
84,098

1,083
–
–
–
–
–
1,083

663
–
–
(38)
–
–
625

92,076
11,584
(144)
(23,200)
3,298
(1,224)
82,390

Freehold 
land
1,083
–
–
1,083

Buildings
707
(119)
–
588

Plant and 
equipment
67,511
(56,090)
3,558
14,979

1,083
–
–
–
–
–
1,083

625
–
(37)
–
–
–
588

82,390
17,484
(11,574)
(990)
(72,558)
227
14,979

93,822
11,584
(144)
(23,238)
3,298
(1,224)
84,098

Total

69,301
(56,209)
3,558
16,650

84,098
17,484
(11,611)
(990)
(72,558)
227
16,650

2.2  PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

2017 
$’000
Cost or fair value
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
Capital works in progress
Net book amount
Movements
Opening net book amount
Additions
Disposals
Depreciation
Transfers and other adjustments
Foreign exchange differences
Closing net book amount

2018 
$’000
Cost or fair value
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
Capital works in progress
Net book amount
Movements
Opening net book amount
Additions 1
Depreciation 1
Transfers and other adjustments 1
Sale of Adshel 2
Foreign exchange differences 1
Closing net book amount

(1) Movements partially relate to Adshel prior to sale. 

(2) Refer to note 6.1 for further details.

62

2.2  PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Land and buildings are shown at fair value, based on periodic valuations by external independent valuers, less 
subsequent depreciation for buildings. Any accumulated depreciation at the date of revaluation is eliminated against 
the gross carrying amount of the asset and the net amount is restated to the revalued amount of the asset. Increases 
in the carrying amounts arising on revaluation of land and buildings are credited to revaluation reserve in equity. To 
the extent that the increase reverses a decrease previously recognised in the income statement, the increase is first 
recognised in the income statement. Decreases that reverse previous increases of the same asset are first charged 
against revaluation reserve directly in equity to the extent of the remaining reserve attributable to the asset; all other 
decreases are charged to the income statement. 

Plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less depreciation. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly 
attributable to the acquisition of the items. Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognised 
as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will 
flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the 
income statement during the financial period in which they are incurred. 

Finance leases 
Leases of property, plant and equipment where the Group, as lessee, has substantially all the risks and rewards of 
ownership are classified as finance leases. Finance leases are capitalised at the lease’s inception at the fair value of the 
leased property or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments. The corresponding rental obligations, net 
of finance charges, are included in other short-term and long-term payables. Each lease payment is allocated between the 
liability and finance cost. The finance cost is charged to profit or loss over the lease period so as to produce a constant 
periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period. Leased assets held at balance date are 
amortised over the shorter of the estimated useful life or the lease term. 

Depreciation 
Land is not depreciated. Depreciation on other assets is calculated using the straight line method to allocate their cost 
or revalued amounts, net of their residual values, over their estimated useful lives, as follows:
•  buildings: 50 years;
•  street furniture: based on contract term;
•  digital screens: 7 years;
•  plant and equipment: 3–25 years; and
•  motor vehicles: 4–7 years.

The property, plant and equipment acquired under finance leases are amortised over the asset’s useful life or over the 
shorter of the asset’s useful life and the lease term if there is no reasonable certainty that the Group will obtain ownership 
at the end of the lease term. 

The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed and adjusted, if appropriate, at each balance date. Gains and losses 
on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount and are included in the income statement. 

Impairment of assets 
An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater 
than its estimated recoverable amount. Assets that are subject to depreciation (amortisation) are tested for impairment 
whenever changes in circumstances indicate that the asset’s carrying amount may exceed its recoverable amount. An 
impairment charge is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. 
Assets that suffer an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at each reporting date.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 63

2.3  RECEIVABLES

Trade receivables
Provision for doubtful debts

Other receivables
Total receivables
Movements in the provision for doubtful debts are as follows:
Balance at beginning of the year 
Provision for doubtful debts expense
Sale of Adshel1
Receivables written off 
Provision for doubtful debts 

(1) Refer to note 6.1 for further details. 

2018 
$’000

52,202
(529)
51,673
3,504
55,177

781
–
(155)
(97)
529

Refer below for an analysis of the ageing of the Group’s trade receivables net of provision for doubtful debts:

2017
Trade receivables
Provision for doubtful debts

2018
Trade receivables
Provision for doubtful debts

Current 
$’000

Less than  
one month 
$’000

One to three  
months 
$’000

Three to six 
 months 
$’000

Over six  
months 
$’000

Past due

64,743
–
64,743

39,989
(9)
39,980

10,871
(199)
10,672

9,222
(126)
9,096

5,981
(234)
5,747

2,248
(96)
2,152

1,436
(233)
1,203

578
(195)
383

287
(115)
172

165
(103)
62

2017 
$’000
83,318
(781)
82,537
8,469
91,006

989
129
–
(337)
781

Total 
$’000

83,318
(781)
82,537

52,202
(529)
51,673

As at 31 December 2018, trade receivables of $11 million (2017: $16.9 million) were past due but not impaired. 

Based on the credit history of the trade receivables, it is expected that these amounts will be received. All other receivables are 
not past due and not considered impaired.

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the higher of the carrying value and fair value of each receivable. 
The Group does not hold any collateral as security. Refer to note 3.3 for credit risk and note 3.4 for fair value information. 

64

2.3  RECEIVABLES (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective 
interest method, less provision for doubtful debts. Trade receivables are generally settled within 30 to 45 days and 
therefore classified as current. Due to their short-term nature, the carrying value represents fair value. 

The provision for doubtful debts is impacted by the adoption of AASB 9 Financial Instruments (expected credit loss model). 
Refer to note 3.3(B). 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 65

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

5,083
1,500
–
400
6,983

1,045
–
–
3,205
4,250

6,911
–
6,421
689
14,021

1,111
2,300
12,590
3,699
19,700

Total 
$’000

25,699
5,314
(806)
(800)
(16,161)
(8,143)
2
5,105

2.4  PROVISIONS

Current
Employee benefits
Contingent consideration
Compliance obligations 
Other
Total current provisions
Non-current
Employee benefits
Contingent consideration
Compliance obligations
Other
Total non-current provisions

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

2018
Carrying amount at beginning of the year
Additional amounts recognised
Amounts used 
Investments in associates
Release of provision 1
Sale of Adshel 2
Foreign exchange differences
Carrying amount at end of the year

(1)  Release of provision not going to be utilised. 

(2)  Refer to note 6.1 for further details.

Onerous 
contracts 
$’000
–
4,000
–
–
–
(4,000)
–
–

Compliance 
obligations 
$’000
19,011
–
–
–
(16,161)
(2,850)
–
–

Contingent 
consideration 
$’000
2,300
–
–
(800)
–
–
–
1,500

Other 
$’000
4,388
1,314
(806)
–
–
(1,293)
2
3,605

66

2.4  PROVISIONS (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, it is 
probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation and the amount has been reliably estimated. 

Provisions are measured at the present value of management’s best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the 
present obligation at the end of the reporting period. The discount rate used to determine the present value is a pre-tax 
rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The increase 
in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as interest expense. 

Employee benefits 
Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits, annual leave, and long service leave, in respect of 
employees’ services up to the reporting date expected to be settled wholly within 12 months from the reporting date are 
measured at the amounts expected to be paid when settled. 

Liabilities for annual leave and long service leave not expected to be settled wholly within 12 months after the end of 
the reporting date are measured as the present value of expected future payments to be made. Consideration is given 
to expected future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service. Expected future 
payments are discounted using market yields at the reporting date on corporate bonds rates with terms to maturity and 
currency that match, as closely as possible, the estimated future cash outflows. Remeasurements as a result of experience 
adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are recognised in profit or loss. 

The obligations are presented as current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet if the entity does not have an 
unconditional right to defer settlement for 12 months after the reporting period, regardless of when the actual settlement 
is expected to occur. 

Onerous contracts 
The onerous contracts provision represents contracts where the expected economic benefit is lower than the cost for 
which the Group is currently committed under the terms of the contract. The minimal net obligation under the contract 
is provided for. The provision is calculated as the net of the estimated revenue and the committed cost discounted to 
present value. 

Contingent consideration 
The contingent consideration provision comprises the fair value of amounts payable on business combinations and 
investments in associates should certain pre-determined thresholds be met by the acquired businesses.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 67

Note

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

–
–

133,604
133,604

2,078
(20)
2,058
(2,058)

(2,058)
2,058
(128,355)
(128,355)

7,401
(6,874)
527
133,077

133,077
527
(18,773)
114,831

3.2

3 

CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

3.1 

INTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES

Non-current interest bearing liabilities
Bank loans – secured

Deduct:
Borrowing costs
Accumulated amortisation
Net borrowing costs
Total non-current interest bearing liabilities1
Net Debt 1
Non-current interest bearing liabilities
Net borrowing costs
Cash and cash equivalents
Net (cash)/debt

(1)  Net borrowing costs as at 31 December 2018 is disclosed in other non-current assets on the consolidated balance sheet.

Following the sale of Adshel, the Company repaid its syndicated secured facility ($191 million drawn at the time of repayment). 
Due to expire in July 2019, the Company refinanced its debt facilities in December 2018; the new facilities mostly expire in 2023. 

(A)  RISK EXPOSURES
The exposures of borrowings to interest rate changes and the contractual repricing at the balance dates are as follows:

2017
2018

Six months  
or less 
$’000
33,604
–

Six to  
12 months 
$’000
–
–

One to  
five years 
$’000
100,000
–

Greater than  
five years 
$’000
–
–

The carrying amounts of borrowing are denominated in the following currencies:

Australian dollars
Hong Kong dollars
Interest bearing liabilities

For an analysis of the sensitivity of borrowings to interest rate risk, refer to note 3.3.

2018 
$’000

–
–
–

Total 
$’000

133,604
–

2017 
$’000
129,000
4,604
133,604

68

3.1 

INTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

(B)  CAPITAL RISK MANAGEMENT
The Group is focused on safeguarding its ability to continue as a going concern, so that it can provide returns for shareholders 
and benefits for other stakeholders, and to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital.

In order to maintain an optimal capital structure, the Group may:
•  adjust the number of dividends paid to shareholders;
•  return capital to shareholders;
• 
•  sell assets to reduce debt.

issue new shares; or

(C)  STANDBY ARRANGEMENTS AND CREDIT FACILITIES

Entities in the Group have access to:
Loan facilities1
Secured bank loan facilities 
Unsecured bank loan facilities
Amount of facility utilised 2
Amount of available facility
Overdraft facilities
Unsecured bank overdraft facilities
Amount of credit utilised
Amount of available credit

(1)  Pertaining to the revolving cash advance facility.

(2)  Includes bank guarantees drawn.

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

–
259,053
(3,023)
256,030

360,000
–
(139,326)
220,674

1,500
–
1,500

1,915
–
1,915

During the year, separate to the repayment of the revolving cash facility, the bank guarantee facility of $20 million was 
transferred to oOh!media as part of the sale of Adshel and is therefore no longer a facility available to HT&E. This had been 
utilised in 2017 ($19.6 million). 

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
Interest bearing liabilities are initially recognised at fair value less attributable transaction costs and subsequently 
measured at amortised cost. Any difference between cost and redemption value is recognised in the income statement 
over the period of the borrowing on an effective interest basis. 

Costs incurred in connection with the arrangement of borrowings are deferred and amortised over the period of the 
borrowing. These are shown as an asset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 69

3.2  CASH FLOW INFORMATION

RECONCILIATION OF CASH

Cash at end of the year, as shown in the statement of cash flows, comprises:
Cash at bank and on hand 
The below reconciliation relates to both continued and discontinued operations.
Reconciliation of profit/(loss) for the year to net cash (outflows)/inflows from operating activities:
Profit/(loss) for the year
Depreciation and amortisation 
Borrowing costs amortisation
Share of profits of associates
Interest income from associates
Other non-cash items
Licence fee relief 
Share-based payments expense
Gain on sale of Adshel
Gains on financial assets held at fair value through profit or loss 
Impairment
Net gain on sale of non-current assets 
Changes in assets and liabilities net of effect of acquisitions and changes in accounting policy:
  Trade and other receivables

Inventories
  Prepayments
  Change in current payable/deferred tax
  Trade and other payables and provision for employee benefits
Net cash (outflows)/inflows from operating activities

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

128,355

18,773

231,029
18,802
547
(468)
(79)
439
–
1,281
(179,073)
(1,912)
–
(59)

(2,170)
757
(6,802)
(54,089)
(13,409)
(5,206)

(110,931)
39,271
1,054
(1,252)
–
(235)
(5,423)
1,787
–
(2,803)
163,340
–

(4,443)
(164)
4,340
11,912
(21,299)
75,154

ACCOUNTING POLICY 
For the purposes of presentation on the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and 
deposits held at call with financial institutions, net of bank overdrafts. 

 
70

3.3  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT
The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk), 
credit risk and liquidity risk.

The Group’s overall financial risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks 
to minimise potential adverse effects on the financial performance of the Group. The Group will use derivative financial 
instruments such as interest rate swaps to hedge certain risk exposures. The Group uses different methods to measure 
different types of risk to which it is exposed. These methods include sensitivity analysis in the case of interest rate and foreign 
exchange risk and ageing analysis for credit risk.

Financial risk management is carried out by the Group Treasury function under policies approved by the Board of Directors. 
The policies provide principles for overall risk management, as well as covering specific areas, such as interest rate risk, foreign 
exchange risk, credit risk, use of derivative financial instruments and non-derivative financial instruments, and investment of 
excess liquidity.

(A)  MARKET RISK
(i)  Cash flow and fair value interest rate risk
During the year, the Group was exposed to interest rate risk through long-term borrowings. As at 31 December 2018, the 
Group had no long-term borrowings outstanding. The Group is now exposed to interest rates risk through its cash and cash 
equivalents balance. A change of +/- 1% per annum with all other variables being constant would impact equity and net profit 
by $0.9 million. The parent entity has no significant exposure to a change in interest rates. 

(ii)  Foreign exchange risk
Foreign exchange risk arises from future commercial transactions and recognised assets and liabilities that are denominated 
in a currency that is not the entity’s functional currency. Individual transactions are assessed, and forward exchange contracts 
are used to hedge the risk where deemed appropriate.

While the Group as a whole has assets and liabilities in multiple currencies, individual entities in the Group do not have a 
significant foreign exchange exposure to receivables or payables in currencies that are not their functional currency.

(iii)  Price risk
The Group is not exposed to significant price risk.

(B)  CREDIT RISK
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet 
its contractual obligations. Credit risk principally arises from customers, cash and cash equivalents, derivative financial 
instruments, deposits with banks and financial institutions and financial guarantees (refer to note 6.2 for details). 

For banks and financial institutions, the creditworthiness is assessed prior to entering into arrangements and approved by 
the Board. 

For customers, the maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the higher of the carrying value and fair value 
of each receivable. Risk control involves the assessment of the credit quality, taking into account financial position, past 
experience and other factors. The utilisation of credit limits is regularly monitored.

Where appropriate, the Group undertakes all of its transactions in foreign exchange contracts with financial institutions.

AASB 9 Financial Instruments
AASB 9 Financial Instruments, the AASB equivalent of IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, introduces a new model for classification and 
measurement of financial assets and liabilities, an expected credit loss (ECL) impairment model and reformed approach to 
hedge accounting. In accordance with the transitional provisions of AASB 9, comparative figures have not been restated. The 
Group had early adopted classification and measurement and hedging requirements, with 31 December 2009 as the date of 
initial application.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 71

3.3  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)
In accordance with the ECL impairment model in AASB 9, the Group was required to revise its methodology and accounting 
policies for the impairment of trade receivables and contract assets identified in AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with 
Customers. The updated accounting policy effective 1 January 2018 is set out below. The Group has assessed the financial 
impact of adopting the new impairment model on transition to be immaterial due to the historically low level of bad debt in the 
Group and taking into account appropriate forward-looking information. On this basis, the loss allowance for trade receivables 
as at 31 December 2018 as follows:

2018

Current
$’000

Less than 
one month 
$’000

One to three 
months 
$’000

Three to six 
months
$’000

Over six 
months 
$’000

Past due

Trade receivables
Expected Credit Loss %
Provision for doubtful debts (reported)

39,989
0.03%
(9)

9,222
1.37%
(126)

2,248
4.25%
(96)

578
33.72%
(195)

165
62.54%
(103)

Total
$’000

52,202

(529)

Impairment of financial assets 
The loss allowances for financial assets are based on assumptions about risk of default and expected loss rates. The Group uses 
judgement when determining whether the credit risk of a financial asset has increased significantly since initial recognition and 
when estimating ECL. The Group considers reasonable and supportable information that is relevant and available without undue 
cost or effort. This includes both quantitative and qualitative information and analysis based on the Group’s historical experience, 
current market conditions as well as forward looking estimates at the end of each reporting period. 

(C)  LIQUIDITY RISK
Prudent liquidity risk management implies maintaining sufficient cash and marketable securities, the availability of funding 
through an adequate amount of committed credit facilities and the ability to close out market positions. Due to the dynamic 
nature of the underlying business, Group Treasury aims at maintaining flexibility in funding by keeping committed credit lines 
available. Management monitors rolling forecasts of the Group’s liquidity reserve on the basis of expected cash flows.

The tables below analyse the Group’s financial liabilities, including interest to maturity, into relevant maturity groupings based 
on the remaining period at the reporting date to the contractual maturity date. The amounts disclosed in the tables are the 
contractual undiscounted cash flows. For interest rate swaps, the cash flows have been estimated using current interest rates 
applicable at the reporting date.

2017
Non-derivative financial liabilities
Payables1
Bank loans (including interest to maturity) 
Total non-derivatives
Derivative financial liabilities
Net settled interest rate swaps
Total derivatives
Less: interest
Total financial liabilities

Less than 
one year 
$’000

Between 
one and 
two years 
$’000

Between 
two and 
five years 
$’000

Over 
five years 
$’000

60,003
4,778
64,781

564
564
(4,778)
60,567

–
135,986
135,986

423
423
(2,382)
134,027

–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–
–

 
72

3.3  FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

2018
Non-derivative financial liabilities
Payables1
Total non-derivatives
Total financial liabilities

Less than 
one year 
$’000

Between 
one and 
two years 
$’000

Between 
two and 
five years 
$’000

Over 
five years 
$’000

24,250
24,250
24,250

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–

(1)  The carrying amount of trade and other payables excludes $0.6 million (2017: $2.6 million) of non-current amounts as they do not meet the definition of a 

financial liability under Australian Accounting Standards.

Details of credit standby arrangements and loan facilities are included in note 3.1. 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 73

3.4  FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The Group measures and recognises the following assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis:
•  financial assets at fair value through profit or loss;
•  derivative financial instruments;
•  available-for-sale financial assets; and
• 

land and buildings.

(A)  FAIR VALUE HIERARCHY
AASB 13 Fair Value Measurement requires disclosure of fair value measurements by level of the following fair value 
measurement hierarchy:
• 
• 

level 1: quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
level 2: inputs other than quoted prices included within level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly 
or indirectly; and
level 3: inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).

• 

(i)  Recognised fair value measurements
The following table presents the Group’s financial assets and financial liabilities measured and recognised at fair value at 
31 December 2017 and 2018:

2017
Recurring fair value measurements
Financial assets
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
  Shares in other corporations
Total financial assets
Non-financial assets
Freehold land and buildings
  Freehold land
  Buildings
Total non-financial assets
Recurring fair value measurements
Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
  Derivative liabilities
Total financial liabilities

Note

Level 1 
$’000

Level 2 
$’000

Level 3 
$’000

Total 
$’000

5.3

2.2
2.2

–
–

–
–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–
–

33,279
33,279

33,279
33,279

1,083
625
1,708

1,083
625
1,708

778
778

–
–

778
778

74

3.4  FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (CONTINUED)

2018
Recurring fair value measurements
Financial assets
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
  Shares in other corporations
Total financial assets
Non-financial assets
Freehold land and buildings
  Freehold land
  Buildings
Total non-financial assets

Note

Level 1 
$’000

Level 2 
$’000

Level 3 
$’000

Total 
$’000

5.3

2.2
2.2

–
–

–
–
–

–
–

–
–
–

35,403
35,403

35,403
35,403

1,083
588
1,671

1,083
588
1,671

The Group also has a number of assets and liabilities which are not measured at fair value, but for which fair values are 
disclosed in the notes.

The carrying amounts of trade receivables and payables are assumed to approximate their fair values due to their short term 
nature. There are no outstanding non-current receivables as at 31 December 2018 (level 3).

The level 3 inputs used by the Group are derived and evaluated as follows.

The fair value of non-current borrowings disclosed in note 3.1 is estimated by discounting the future contractual cash flows 
at the current market interest rates that are available to the Group for similar financial instruments. For the period ended 
31 December 2018, the borrowing rates were determined to be between 2.3% and 3.7% per annum, depending on the type 
of borrowing. The fair value of current borrowings approximates the carrying amount, as the impact of discounting is not 
significant (level 2).

If one or more of the significant inputs is not based on observable market data, the instrument is included in level 3. This is the 
case for shares in other corporations disclosed in note 5.3, which are valued using discount rates, forecast cash flows, EBITDA 
multiples estimated by management based on comparable transactions and industry data.

The fair value of interest rate swaps is calculated as the present value of the estimated future cash flows based on observable 
yield curves.

The Group obtains independent valuations at least every three years for its freehold land and buildings (classified as property, 
plant and equipment in note 2.2), less subsequent depreciation for buildings. This is considered sufficient regularity to ensure 
that the carrying amount does not differ materially from that which would be determined using fair value at the end of the 
reporting period. All resulting fair value estimates for properties are included in level 3.

During the year, a fair value gain of $1.9 million (2017: $2.8 million) was recorded in other income for shares in other 
corporations. There were no other material level 3 fair value movements during the year. Refer to note 5.3. 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 75

3.5  CONTRIBUTED EQUITY

Issued and paid up share capital

2018 
$’000

1,492,555

2017 
$’000
1,531,567

(A)  MOVEMENTS IN CONTRIBUTED EQUITY DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR

Balance at beginning of the year
Dividend reinvestment plan1
Share buy-back2
Balance at end of the year

2018 
Number  
of shares

308,912,092
–
(23,313,693)
285,598,399

2017 
Number  
of shares
307,494,273
1,417,819
–
308,912,092

2018 
$’000

1,531,567
–
(39,012)
1,492,555

2017 
$’000
1,528,022
3,545
–
1,531,567

(1)  The Company has a dividend reinvestment plan under which holders of ordinary shares may elect to have all or part of their dividend entitlements 

satisfied by the issue of new ordinary shares rather than by being paid in cash. The Directors determined to suspend the DRP, effective 15 February 2018. 

(2)  During December 2018, the Company purchased and cancelled 23 million shares on-market. The shares were acquired at an average price of $1.67 per share.

(B)  ORDINARY SHARES
Ordinary shares entitle the holder to participate in dividends and the proceeds on winding up of the Company in proportion to 
the number of and amounts paid on the shares held.

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

ACCOUNTING POLICY
Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are 
shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

76

3.6  SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

As at 1 January 
Granted
Exercised 
Forfeited 
Other changes
As at 31 December

2018 
Number of 
rights

1,049,753
936,245
(1,111,599)
(7,813)
580,328
1,446,914

2017 
Number of 
rights
903,419
205,493
(84,864)
(83,695)
109,400
1,049,753

Share rights outstanding at the end of the year have the following vesting date and weighted average fair value.

Incentive plan
2015 LTI 1
2016 TIP 2
2017 TIP 3
2018 TIP 4, 5
As at 31 December

Vesting date
31–Dec–17
1–Jan–18
1–Jan–19
1–Jan–20 

Weighted 
average fair 
value
$3.57 
$3.13 
$2.27
$1.84

Weighted average remaining contractual life of rights outstanding at end of period

Rights 

2018

–
–
327,400
1,119,514
1,446,914

2017
319,945
524,315
205,493
–
1,049,753

2018

0.8 years

2017
0.2 years

(1)  The 2015 Long Term Incentive (LTI) scheme required the Company to deliver shares to the recipients on a pre-NZME demerger valuation basis, such that 
the recipients were not economically disadvantaged. Consequently, the Board elected to satisfy the LTI through issuing additional rights to HT&E shares 
totalling 95,087. The number of additional rights was calculated with reference to the HT&E and NZME share price on 1 January 2018, the vesting date for 
the 2015 LTI scheme. This is disclosed in other changes above.

(2)  The 2016 Total Incentive Plan (TIP) required that participants receive an additional allocation of shares at vesting equal to the dividends paid on vested 

rights over the service period. 14,313 additional rights were issued to satisfy this requirement. This is disclosed in other changes above.

(3)  The date on which the fair value of the 2017 TIP rights were calculated, is the deemed grant date of the rights for accounting purposes. An actual grant of rights 
was not made to the CEO & Managing Director until after shareholder approval had been received at the Annual General Meeting, and for all other Executive 
KMP on 14 February 2018. The 2017 TIP required that participants receive an additional allocation of shares at vesting equal to the dividends paid on vested 
rights over the performance and service period. 142,548 additional rights were issued to satisfy this requirement. This is disclosed in other changes above. 

(4)  The date on which the fair value of the 2018 TIP rights were calculated, is the deemed grant date of the rights for accounting purposes. An actual grant 

of rights will not be made to the CEO & Managing Director until after shareholder approval has been received at the Annual General Meeting, and for all 
other Executive KMP on a date to be determined after this annual report has been issued. 

(5)  The 2018 TIP requires that participants receive an additional allocation of shares at vesting equal to the dividends paid on vested rights over the 
performance and service period. 437,780 additional rights were issued to satisfy this requirement. This is disclosed in other changes above. 

Share-based payments expense related to the above tables for the year was $1,281,000 (2017:  $1,448,000). 

Further information of the rights granted to Executive KMP is contained in the Remuneration Report found on 
pages 24 to 42 of the Group’s Annual Report, including details regarding the cash settlement of the outstanding TIP 
for the Adshel CEO and ARN CEO.

The TIP, encompassing the 2017 and 2018 financial year, provides for the grant of rights which will convert to fully paid 
ordinary shares following the achievement of performance measures in 2017 and 2018 respectively, and satisfaction of 
a one-year service period.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 77

3.6  SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY
Share-based compensation benefits are provided to employees via share-based payments or a LTI plan.

The fair value of rights granted under the LTI plan is recognised as an employee benefits expense with a corresponding 
increase in equity. The fair value is measured at grant date and recognised over the period during which the employee 
becomes unconditionally entitled to the rights.

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

The fair value of the rights granted is adjusted to reflect the market vesting condition but excludes the impact of any 
non-market vesting conditions. Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number of rights 
that are expected to become exercisable. At each reporting date, the Group revises its estimate of the number of rights 
that are expected to become exercisable. 

The employee benefits expense recognised each period takes into account the most recent estimate. The impact of the 
revision to the original estimates, is recognised in profit or loss with a corresponding adjustment to equity.

78

3.7  RESERVES AND ACCUMULATED LOSSES

Reserves
Asset revaluation reserve
Foreign currency translation reserve
Share-based payments reserve
Hedging reserve
Transactions with non-controlling interests reserve
Treasury shares reserve
Total reserves
Asset revaluation reserve
Balance at beginning of the year
Balance at end of the year
Foreign currency translation reserve
Balance at beginning of the year
Reclassification of foreign currency translation reserve to profit or loss on sale
Net exchange difference on translation of foreign operations
Balance at end of the year
Share-based payments reserve
Balance at beginning of the year
Share-based payments expense
Issue of shares to employees
Transfers within equity
Balance at end of the year
Hedging reserve
Balance at beginning of the year
Net gain on fair value hedges
Balance at end of the year
Transactions with non-controlling interests reserve
Balance at beginning of the year
Balance at end of the year
Treasury shares reserve
Balance at beginning of the year
Issue of treasury shares
Treasury shares vested to employees
Balance at end of the year

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

786
11
9,829
–
(53,283)
(1,152)
(43,809)

786
786

(5,239)
3,504
1,746
11

9,347
1,418
(824)
(112)
9,829

(544)
544
–

786
(5,239)
9,347
(544)
(53,283)
(1,779)
(50,712)

786
786

297
–
(5,536)
(5,239)

7,399
1,948
–
–
9,347

(546)
2
(544)

(53,283)
(53,283)

(53,283)
(53,283)

(1,779)
(197)
824
(1,152)

–
(1,779)
–
(1,779)

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 79

3.7  RESERVES AND ACCUMULATED LOSSES (CONTINUED)

NATURE AND PURPOSE OF RESERVES

ASSET REVALUATION RESERVE
The asset revaluation reserve is used to record increments and decrements on the revaluation of non-current assets, as 
described in note 2.2. The balance standing to the credit of the reserve may be used to satisfy the distribution of bonus shares 
to shareholders and is only available for the payment of cash dividends in limited circumstances as permitted by law. In the 
event of the sale of an asset, the revaluation surplus is transferred to accumulated losses. 

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION RESERVE
Exchange differences arising on translation of any foreign controlled entities are recognised in other comprehensive income 
and the foreign currency translation reserve as described in note 6.5.

SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS RESERVE
The share-based payments reserve is used to recognise the fair value of performance rights issued but not yet vested as 
described in note 3.6.

HEDGING RESERVE
The hedging reserve is used to record unrealised gains or losses on cash flow hedging instruments that are recognised in 
other comprehensive income described in note 6.5.

TRANSACTIONS WITH NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS RESERVE
The transactions with non-controlling interest reserve is used to record the differences described in note 5.2 which may arise 
as a result of transactions with non-controlling interests that do not result in a loss of control.

TREASURY SHARES RESERVE
APN News and Media Employee Share Trust (Trust), a controlled entity, was established in 2017. The Trust purchased 107,465 
additional shares in the Company during the period. The total shareholding in the Company as at 31 December 2018 was 
505,291 shares at an average price of $2.28. This shareholding is disclosed as treasury shares and deducted from equity. 

Performance rights relating to the vested portion of the 2015 LTI plan were issued from the Trust. Performance rights that 
relate to the 2016 TIP have vested and converted into shares, however they have not been issued and remain in the Trust. 

Treasury shares for the 2017 and 2018 TIP are to be purchased after the date of this report. 

The treasury shares reserve is used to recognise the value of shares purchased by the Trust.

ACCUMULATED LOSSES

Balance at beginning of the year
Profit/(Loss) attributable to owners of the parent entity
Transfer from reserves
Dividends paid
Balance at end of the year

2018 
$’000

(895,095)
225,544
112
(244,039)
(913,478)

2017 
$’000
(756,085)
(117,486)
–
(21,524)
(895,095)

80

3.8  DIVIDENDS

Final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2017  
of 4.0 cents per share fully franked (2016: 4.0 cents)
  Paid in cash

Issued under dividend reinvestment plan

Interim dividend for the year ended 31 December 2018  
of 3.0 cents per share fully franked (2017: 3.0 cents)
  Paid in cash

Issued under dividend reinvestment plan

Special dividend for the year ended 31 December 2018  
of 72.0 cents per share fully franked (2017: nil)
  Paid in cash
Total dividends
Franking credits available for subsequent financial years at the 30% corporate tax rate after 
allowing for tax payable in respect of the current year’s profit and tax refunds due
Dividends not recognised at year end
Since year end, the Directors have declared a fully franked final dividend of 4.0 cents per share. 
The aggregate amount of the dividend expected to be paid on 15 March 2019 out of retained 
profits at 31 December 2018, but not recognised as a liability at year end, is:

2018 
$’000

12,357

12,357
–
9,267

9,267
–
222,415

222,415
244,039
11,393

2017 
$’000
12,300

10,403
1,897
9,224

7,575
1,649
–

–
21,524
88,087

11,424

12,357

3.9  COMMITMENTS

LEASE COMMITMENTS
Commitments for minimum lease payments in relation to operating leases and rental commitments contracted for at the 
reporting date but not recognised as liabilities, payable:

Not later than one year
Later than one year but not later than five years
Later than five years
Total operating lease and rental commitments
Representing:
Cancellable operating leases and rental commitments
Non-cancellable operating leases and rental commitments
Total operating lease and rental commitments
Capital expenditure contracted for at balance date but not recognised as liabilities

2018 
$’000

14,269
30,339
4
44,612

31
44,581
44,612
688

2017 
$’000
43,922
66,360
20,865
131,147

51
131,096
131,147
13,142

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643 
 
ANNUAL REPORT 2018 81

3.9  COMMITMENTS (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY
Finance leases are leases of property, plant and equipment where the Group, as lessee, has substantially all the risk and 
rewards of ownership. Finance leases are capitalised at the lease’s inception at the lower of the fair value of the leased 
property and the present value of the minimum lease payments. A corresponding liability is also established and each 
lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance charges and included in other short-term and long-term 
payables. The interest element is charged to the income statement over the period of the lease. Leased assets are 
amortised on a straight line basis over the term of the lease, or where it is likely that the Group will obtain ownership of 
the asset, the life of the asset. Leased assets held at balance date are amortised over the shorter of the estimated useful 
life or the lease term.

Operating leases are other leases under which all the risks and benefits of ownership are effectively retained by the lessor. 
Operating lease payments, excluding contingent payments, are charged to the income statement on a straight line basis 
over the period of the lease.

IMPACT OF NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARD NOT YET EFFECTIVE
The IAS has issued IFRS 16 Leases, a new standard for the accounting of leases, replacing IAS 17 Leases. The AASB has 
issued an equivalent standard, AASB 16 Leases. The standard introduces a single, on-balance sheet lease accounting 
model for lessees and removes the distinction between finance and operating leases. A lessee recognises a right-of-use 
asset representing its right to use the underlying asset and a lease liability representing its obligation to make lease 
payments. There are recognition exemptions for short-term leases and leases of low-value items.

The Group is required to adopt AASB 16 from 1 January 2019. Earlier adoption is permitted, however, the Group does not 
intend to adopt the standard before its effective date. The Group plans to apply AASB 16 using the modified retrospective 
approach. Therefore, the cumulative effect of adopting AASB 16 will be recognised as an adjustment to the opening 
balance of retained earnings at 1 January 2019, with no restatement of comparative information. 

The Group has progressed its assessment of the expected impact of the future adoption of AASB 16 on its consolidated 
financial statements. The Group has collated lease information and is finalising its assessment of the key assumptions and 
inputs to be applied for the adoption of the new standard. Based on the information currently available, the Group expect 
to recognise: 
•  new right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for its operating leases for ARN and HK Outdoor in the consolidated balance 

sheet as at 1 January 2019. The right-of-use asset consists of the initial lease liability, initial direct costs, estimate of 
restoration or dismantling costs and any lease payments made to the lessor before or at commencement date less 
any lease incentives received. The lease liability is measured at the present value of minimum lease payments for the 
lease term;
increase in EBITDA as current rental and occupancy expense in the consolidated income statement is separated 
into depreciation for the right of use asset and interest expense on the lease liability. Variable rent payments are not 
predominately based on an index or rate and will continue to be recognised in the period the obligation is incurred as 
a rental expense and
increase in operating cash flow as the lease repayments considered as financing rather than operating cash flows in the 
consolidated cash flow statement. 

• 

• 

The Group has identified a small number of commitments covered by the short-term and low-value lease exception and 
will recognise the lease payments as expenses. 

Some of the commitments may be covered by the exception for short-term and low-value leases and some commitments 
may relate to arrangements that will not qualify as leases under AASB 16. 

82

4 

TAXATION

4.1 

INCOME TAX AND DEFERRED TAX

(A)  INCOME TAX

Current tax expense
Deferred tax benefit/(expense) 
Adjustment for current tax of prior periods
Income tax expense
Income tax expense is attributable to:
Profit from continuing operations
Profit from discontinued operations
Total income tax expense
Income tax expense differs from the prima facie tax as follows:
Profit/(loss) before income tax expense

Prima facie income tax at 30%
Difference in international tax treatments and rates
Utilisation of unrecognised capital losses and capital gain tax exemptions 
Non-deductible impairment charge
Tax losses written off/not recognised
Adjustment for current tax of prior periods
Adshel sale transaction costs
Other
Income tax expense

2018 
$’000

33,607
(5,666)
(162)
27,779

19,063
8,716
27,779

2017 
$’000
19,782
3,029
(540)
22,271

17,382
4,889
22,271

258,808

(88,660)

77,642
339
(54,187)
–
19
(162)
3,437
691
27,779

(26,598)
135
–
48,212
410
(540)
–
652
22,271

KEY JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES
The Group is subject to income taxes in Australia and jurisdictions where it has foreign operations. Significant judgement 
is required in determining the provision for income taxes. There are certain transactions and calculations undertaken 
during the ordinary course of business for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. The Group estimates its tax 
liabilities based on the Group’s understanding of the tax law. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different 
from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the current and deferred income tax assets 
and liabilities in the period in which such determination is made.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 83

INCOME TAX AND DEFERRED TAX (CONTINUED)

4.1 
New Zealand branch matter
On 22 January 2018 and 1 May 2018, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) issued amended income tax assessments in relation 
to the previously disclosed New Zealand branch matter (involving the licensing of New Zealand mastheads by a New Zealand 
branch of an Australian HT&E Group entity). The New Zealand branch was closed as part of the demerger of NZME on 
29 June 2016.

The amended assessments are for the financial years ended 31 December 2009 to 31 December 2015 inclusive. HT&E has 
been advised the ATO intends to expand its position to the year ended 31 December 2016. It is intended that once that year’s 
tax return is submitted, an objection will be lodged concurrently rather than waiting for an amended assessment.

On 2 August 2018, the ATO determined its position on the application of penalties and interest relating to the New Zealand 
branch matter. The ATO is seeking to apply penalties at the rate of 50% to the years 2009 to 2015. 

In summary, the ATO’s current position in relation to this matter involves $102.5 million of tax adjustments plus $49 million 
of penalties plus $27.5 million of interest.

The issue of amended assessments represents a formalisation of the ATO’s position. The Company continues to consult with 
its advisers. The Company is satisfied that its treatment of this matter is consistent with relevant taxation legislation. The 
Company is also satisfied that penalties should not apply and disagrees with the rate of penalties imposed. HT&E has lodged 
objections with the ATO regarding the amended tax assessments and the penalties and interest assessments. The Company 
will if necessary, contest the matter through litigation proceedings.

While these dispute processes are being completed, the taxpayer is typically required to deposit with the ATO 50% of the tax 
in dispute. The deposit was paid in two instalments, with $35.7 million paid on 15 February 2018 and $15.0 million paid on 
25 May 2018. This $50.7 million is disclosed as deposit of tax in dispute. The remaining disputed amounts of tax, penalties and 
interest are not required to be disclosed.

Other matters
The ATO is also auditing other matters within the Group covering the financial years ended 31 December 2010 to 
31 December 2013 inclusive. As at the date of this report, there is no certainty as to whether any proposed adjustments 
or disputes will be raised by the ATO as a result of this audit.

84

4.1 

INCOME TAX AND DEFERRED TAX (CONTINUED)

(B)  DEFERRED TAX ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

2017
Employee benefits
Doubtful debts
Accruals/restructuring
Intangible assets
Depreciation
Other

2018
Employee benefits
Doubtful debts
Accruals/restructuring
Intangible assets
Depreciation
Other

Balance 
1 Jan 17 
$’000
2,289
237
11,888
(151,917)
(11,749)
(5,113)
(154,365)

Balance 
1 Jan 18 
$’000
2,399
235
9,570
(146,376)
(8,861)
(7,566)
(150,599)

Recognised 
in profit 
or loss 
$’000
110
(2)
(2,318)
4,961
2,731
(2,453)
3,029

Recognised 
in profit 
 or loss 
$’000
78
(30)
(4,987)
1,756
1,183
(3,666)
(5,666)

Recognised 
in equity 
$’000
–
–
–
580
157
–
737

Other 
movements 
$’000
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Recognised 
in equity 
$’000
–
–
2
(153)
(23)
–
(174)

Other 
movements
$’000*
(643)
(46)
(2,051)
34,087
7,775
(241)
38,881

Balance 
31 Dec 17 
$’000

2,399
235
9,570
(146,376)
(8,861)
(7,566)
(150,599)

Balance 
31 Dec 18 
$’000

1,834
159
2,534
(110,686)
74
(11,473)
(117,558)

*  Deferred tax balances relating to Adshel, included in carrying amount of net assets sold. 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 85

4.1 

INCOME TAX AND DEFERRED TAX (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY
The income tax expense for the year is the tax payable on the current year’s taxable income based on the applicable 
income tax rate for each jurisdiction, adjusted by changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to temporary 
differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements and also 
adjusted for unused tax losses utilised in the year.

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the 
reporting period in the countries where the Group’s subsidiaries and associates operate and generate taxable income. 
Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax 
regulation is subject to interpretation. It establishes provisions where appropriate on the basis of amounts expected to be 
paid to the tax authorities.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognised for temporary differences at the tax rates expected to apply when the 
assets are recovered or liabilities are settled, based on those enacted tax rates applicable to each jurisdiction. The relevant 
tax rates are applied to the cumulative amounts of deductible and taxable temporary differences to measure the deferred 
tax asset or liability.

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

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognised for temporary differences between the carrying amount and tax 
bases of investments in controlled entities where the parent entity is able to control the timing of the reversal of the 
temporary differences and it is probable that the differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future. Temporary 
differences in relation to indefinite life intangible assets are determined with reference to their respective capital gains tax 
bases in respect of assets for which capital gains tax will apply.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and 
liabilities and when the deferred tax balances relate to the same taxation authority. Current tax assets and tax liabilities 
are offset where the entity has a legally enforceable right to offset and intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realise 
the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Current and deferred tax balances attributable to amounts recognised in other comprehensive income are also 
recognised in other comprehensive income.

The Company and its wholly-owned Australian controlled entities are part of a tax-consolidated group under Australian 
taxation law. HT&E Limited is the head entity in the tax-consolidated group. Entities within the tax-consolidated group 
have entered into a tax funding arrangement and a tax sharing agreement with the head entity. Under the terms of the 
tax funding arrangement, HT&E Limited and each of the entities in the tax-consolidated group have agreed to pay (or 
receive) a tax equivalent payment to (or from) the head entity, based on the current tax liability or current tax asset of 
the entity. Each entity in the tax-consolidated group measures its current and deferred taxes as if it continued to be a 
separate taxable entity in its own right.

Judgement is required in relation to the recognition of carried forward tax losses as deferred tax assets. The Group 
assesses whether there will be sufficient future taxable profits to utilise the losses based on a range of factors, including 
forecast earnings and whether the unused tax losses resulted from identified causes which are unlikely to recur.

86

5 

GROUP STRUCTURE

5.1  CONTROLLED ENTITIES
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets, liabilities and results of the following entities in accordance with 
the accounting policy described in note 6.5.

Equity holding

Name of entity
5AD Broadcasting Company Pty Ltd1
Actraint No. 116 Pty. Limited1
Adshel New Zealand Limited3 
Adshel Street Furniture Pty Limited3
Airplay Media Services Pty. Limited1
APN News & Media Employee Share Trust
ARN Adelaide Pty Ltd1
ARN Brisbane Pty Ltd1,2
ARN Broadcasting Pty Ltd1
ARN Communications Pty Ltd1,2
ARN Limited Partnership 
ARN New Zealand Pty. Limited1,2
ARN Overseas Pty. Limited1,2
ARN Perth Pty Limited1
ARN South Australia Pty Limited1
ARN Superannuation Pty Ltd1
ARNSAT Pty Limited1 
Asia Posters Sdn Bhd
Australian Outdoor Pty Limited1,2
Australian Radio Network Pty Limited1,2
Australian Radio Network Sales Pty Ltd1
Biffin Pty. Limited1,2
Black Mountain Broadcasters Pty. Limited
Blue Mountains Broadcasters Pty Limited1
Brisbane FM Radio Pty Ltd
Buspak Advertising (China) Limited
Buspak Advertising (Hong Kong) Limited
C.R. Phillips Investments Pty Ltd1
Capital City Broadcasters Pty. Limited1
Cardcorp (Manufacturing) Pty. Limited
Catalogue Central Pty Limited1
Central Coast Broadcasting Pty.1
Citysites Outdoor Advertising (Albert) Pty. Ltd.1
Citysites Outdoor Advertising (S. Aust.) Pty. Ltd.1
Citysites Outdoor Advertising (W Aust) Pty Ltd1
Citysites Outdoor Advertising Pty. Ltd.1
Cody Outdoor International (HK) Limited
Commonwealth Broadcasting Corporation Pty Ltd1,2
Conversant Media Pty Ltd1
Covette Investments Pty Limited1,2

Country of 
incorporation/ 
establishment
Australia
Australia
New Zealand
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Malaysia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Hong Kong
Australia
Australia
Australia

2018 
%
100
100
–
–
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
50
100
50
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

2017 
%
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
50
100
50
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 87

Country of 
incorporation/ 
establishment

Equity holding

2018 
%

2017 
%

Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia

100
51
100
50
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
50
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
50
100
100
100
100
100
100

100
51
100
50
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
50
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
50
100
100
100
100
100
100

5.1  CONTROLLED ENTITIES (CONTINUED)

Name of entity
Double T Radio Pty Ltd1
Emotive Pty Limited 
Evitome Pty Limited1
Farm Fantastic Pty Limited
Gergdaam Capital Pty Limited1,2
Gulgong Pty. Limited1,2
Haswell Pty. Limited1,2
HT&E Braeside Pty Ltd
HT&E Broadcasting (Regionals) Pty.1,2
HT&E Broadcasting Investments Pty Ltd1
HT&E Business Magazines Pty Ltd1
HT&E Digital Pty Ltd1
HT&E Finance Pty Limited1,2
HT&E International Pty Ltd1,2
HT&E Milperra Pty Ltd
HT&E Online (Australia) Pty Ltd1
HT&E Operations Ltd1,2
iNC Network Australia Pty Ltd1
KAFM Broadcasters Proprietary Limited1
Level 3 Investments Pty Limited1
Level 4 Investments Pty Limited1
Lunchbox Investments Pty Ltd
Media Tek Pty. Limited1,2
Melbourne F.M. Facilities Pty. Limited
Nathco Holdings Pty. Ltd.1,2
Perth Sign Company Pty Ltd1
Phillips Finance Pty Ltd1
Phillips Neon Pty Ltd1
Provincial Investments Pty. Ltd.1
Radio 96FM Perth Pty Limited1
RadioWise Pty Ltd1
Regmax Pty Limited1
Shelter Advertising Pty Ltd1
Southern State Broadcasters Pty. Limited1
Speedlink Services Pty Ltd1
Street Furniture (NSW) Pty Ltd1
SunCoastal F.M. Radio Pty. Ltd.1
Sydney FM Facilities Pty Ltd
The Internet Amusements Group Pty Limited1
The Level 3 Partnership
The Roar Sports Media Pty Ltd1
Tibbar Broadcasting Pty Limited1
Universal Radio Pty. Ltd.1
Urban Design Furniture Pty. Ltd.1

88

5.1  CONTROLLED ENTITIES (CONTINUED)

Name of entity
Wesgo 1,2
West Sydney Radio Pty Ltd 1
Westat Research Pty Ltd 1
Wilson & Horton Australia Pty Ltd 1
Wilson & Horton Finance Pty Ltd 1,2

Country of 
incorporation/ 
establishment

Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia
Australia

Equity holding

2018 
%

100
100
100
100
100

2017 
%

100
100
100
100
100

(1)  These companies are parties to a deed of cross guarantee dated 28 April 2017 under which each company guarantees the debts of the others (Deed 

of Cross Guarantee). These companies represent a Closed Group for the purposes of ASIC Corporations (Wholly-owned Companies) Instrument 2016/785 
and there are no other members of the Extended Closed Group.

(2)  These wholly-owned entities have been relieved from the requirement to prepare a financial report and Directors’ report under ASIC Corporations 

(Wholly-owned Companies) Instrument 2016/785.

(3)  These companies were sold to oOh!media Limited on 28 September 2018.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 89

5.2 

INTERESTS IN OTHER ENTITIES

(A)  MATERIAL SUBSIDIARIES WITH NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS
Set out below are the Group’s principal subsidiaries with material non-controlling interests. Unless otherwise stated, the 
subsidiaries as listed below have share capital consisting solely of ordinary shares, which are held directly by the Group, and 
the proportion of ownership interests held equals to the voting rights held by the Group.

Ownership interest held  
by the Group

Ownership interest held by 
non-controlling interests

Name of entity
Brisbane FM Radio Pty Ltd

Place of  
business
Australia

Country of  
incorporation
Australia

2018
50%

2017
50%

2018
50%

Principal 
2017
activities
50% Commercial
radio

(B)  NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS
Set out below is summarised financial information for each subsidiary that has non-controlling interests that are material to 
the Group. The amounts disclosed for each subsidiary are before inter-company eliminations.

Summarised balance sheet
Current assets
Current liabilities
Current net assets
Non-current assets
Non-current liabilities
Non-current net assets
Net assets
Accumulated non-controlling interests
Summarised statement of comprehensive income
Revenue
Profit for the period
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income allocated to non-controlling interests
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests 
Summarised statement cash flows
Net inflows from operating activities
Net (outflows)/inflows from investing activities
Net outflows from financing activities
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Brisbane FM Radio Pty Ltd

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

2,757
1,102
1,655
67,585
29
67,556
69,211
36,136

28,617
10,377
–
10,377
5,188
5,200

10,329
(11)
(10,120)
198

6,166
4,545
1,621
67,636
23
67,613
69,234
36,218

31,549
12,554
–
12,554
6,277
6,200

11,846
18
(11,592)
272

90

5.2 

INTERESTS IN OTHER ENTITIES (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY
Non-controlling interests in the results and equity of subsidiaries are shown separately in the consolidated income 
statement, statement of comprehensive income, balance sheet and statement of changes in equity respectively.

The effects of all transactions with non-controlling interests are recorded in equity if there is no change in control. Where 
there is a loss of control, any remaining interest in the entity is remeasured to fair value and a gain or loss is recognised 
in the income statement. Any losses are allocated to the non-controlling interests in subsidiaries even if the accumulated 
losses should exceed the non-controlling interests in the individual subsidiary’s equity.

5.3  SHARES IN OTHER CORPORATIONS

Shares in other corporations

Note
3.4

2018 
$’000

35,403

2017 
$’000
33,279

The following table summarises the quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in level 3 fair value 
measurement of shares in other corporations, which is mainly comprised of the Group’s investment in Nova 93.7, an FM radio 
station in Perth, Western Australia:

Fair value 
as at 
31 Dec 18 
$’000

Valuation 
technique

35,403 Discounted 

cash flows

Description
Shares 
in other 
corporations

Unobservable 
inputs
Cash flow 
growth factor
Risk-adjusted 
discount rate

Range of inputs 
(probability-weighted 
average)
Between  
-3.6% and +1.6% (+2.0%)
14.0%

Relationship of unobservable inputs 
to fair value
Increased terminal cash growth 
factor by 50 basis points and lowering 
discount rate by 100 basis points 
would increase the fair value by 
$4.6 million. Lowering terminal cash 
growth factor by 50 basis points and 
increasing discount rate by 100 basis 
points would decrease the fair value 
by $3.6 million.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 91

5.3  SHARES IN OTHER CORPORATIONS (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY
Classification and initial measurement of financial assets
Financial assets are initially measured at fair value, plus transaction costs. This excludes those financial assets classified 
as at fair value through profit or loss which are initially measured at fair value. Subsequent measurement of financial 
assets is at fair value or amortised cost where certain criteria are met.

Financial assets at amortised cost and impairment
The Group’s loans and receivables (refer to note 2.3) meet the requirements for measurement at amortised cost based 
on the purpose for which the assets and liabilities are held and the contractual terms.

For financial assets measured at amortised cost, the Group assesses at each balance date whether there is objective 
evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired.

Financial assets at fair value
The Group’s investments in equity instruments are measured at fair value, determined in the manner described in note 
3.4. At initial recognition, the Group can make an irrevocable election (on an instrument-by-instrument basis) to recognise 
gains and losses on equity instruments not held for trading, in other comprehensive income. Otherwise, all gains and 
losses are recognised in profit or loss.

5.4  INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD

Shares in associate and joint ventures
Total investments accounted for using the equity method
Share of profits of associate and joint ventures

Note

1.3

2018 
$’000

18,829
18,829
468

2017 
$’000
18,696
18,696
1,252

Set out below are the associates and joint ventures of the Group as at 31 December 2018. The entities listed below have share 
capital consisting solely of ordinary shares, which are held directly by the Group. The country of incorporation is also their 
principal place of business, and the proportion of ownership interest is the same as the proportion of voting rights held.

Ownership interest

Consolidated carrying values

Name of entity
Soprano Design Limited

Place of 
business/ 
country of 
incorpo-
ration
Australia

HT&E Events Pty Limited

Australia

Unbnd Group Pty Ltd

Australia

2018

25%

50%

50%

Nature of 
2017
relationship
25% Associate1

50% Joint 

venture2

50% Joint 

venture3

Measure-
ment 
method
Equity 
method
Equity 
method
Equity 
method

2018 
$’000

14,051

884

3,894

2017 
$’000
13,784

1,121

3,791

(1)  Soprano Design Limited specialises in the development and provision of world leading mobile messaging and wireless application infrastructure. 

The interest in this business was acquired in 2001. 

(2)  HT&E Events Pty Limited specialises in Australian esports and was established in August 2017. In partnership with Gfinity PLC, HT&E Events Pty Limited 

also launched Gfinity Esports Australia in August 2017.

(3)  Unbnd Group Pty Ltd is a digital and communications business specialising in emerging media technologies, including Virtual and Augmented Reality. 

The interest was acquired in September 2017 and the carrying value includes $1.5 million provision for earn-out payments which are subject to specific 
performance objectives.

92

5.4  INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD (CONTINUED)

ACCOUNTING POLICY
Associates
Associates are all entities over which the Group has significant influence but not control or joint control. This is generally 
the case where the Group holds between 20% and 50% of the voting rights.

Investments in associates are accounted for in the consolidated financial statements using the equity method of 
accounting, after initially being recognised at cost. The Group’s investment in associates includes goodwill (net of any 
accumulated impairment loss) identified on acquisition.

The Group’s share of its associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the income statement, and its share 
of post-acquisition movements in other comprehensive income of the associate, is recognised in other comprehensive 
income. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying amount of the investment. 
Dividends received from associates are recognised in the consolidated financial statements as a reduction in the carrying 
amount of the investment.

When the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, including any other 
unsecured receivables, the Group does not recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments 
on behalf of the associate.

Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s 
interest in the associates.

Joint arrangements
Under AASB 11 Joint Arrangements, investments in joint arrangements are classified as either joint operations or joint 
ventures depending on the contractual rights and obligations each investor has, rather than the legal structure of the joint 
arrangement.

Joint operations

(i) 
The Group recognises its direct right to, and its share of, jointly held assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of joint 
operations.

Joint ventures

(ii) 
The interest in a joint venture is accounted for using the equity method after initially being recognised at cost. Under the 
equity method, the Group’s share of the profits or losses of the joint venture is recognised in the income statement, and 
the share of post-acquisition other comprehensive income is recognised in other comprehensive income.

When the Group’s share of losses in a joint venture equals or exceeds its interests in the joint venture (which includes any 
long-term interests that, in substance, form part of the Group’s net investment in the joint venture), the Group does not 
recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the joint venture.

Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its joint ventures are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s 
interest in the joint ventures. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an 
impairment of the asset transferred.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 93

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

360
1,568,344
11,649
728,205

85
1,453,659
18,711
573,063

1,492,555

1,531,567

9,831

9,347

60,181
(244,039)
242,110
58,252
(720,499)
–
(720,499)
840,139
242,110
242,110

81,727
(21,546)
–
60,181
(612,200)
(108,299)
(720,499)
880,596
(108,299)
(108,299)

5.5  PARENT ENTITY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

(A)  SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR THE PARENT ENTITY
The individual financial statements for the parent entity show the following aggregate amounts:

Balance sheet
Current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Total liabilities
Shareholders’ equity
Issued capital
Reserves
  Share-based payments reserve
Retained earnings
Opening profit reserve
Dividends paid 
Profit for the year
Closing profit reserve
Brought forward loss reserve
Loss for the year
Closing loss reserve
Total equity
Profit/(Loss) for the year
Total comprehensive income

(B)  GUARANTEES ENTERED INTO BY THE PARENT ENTITY
Refer to note 6.2 for details.

(C)  CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND CONTRACTUAL COMMITMENTS OF THE PARENT ENTITY
The parent entity did not have any other contingent liabilities or any contractual commitments as at 31 December 2018 or 
31 December 2017.

ACCOUNTING POLICY
The financial information for the parent entity, HT&E Limited, has been prepared on the same basis as the consolidated 
financial statements, except for:

Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for at cost less impairment losses in the financial statements of the parent entity. 

Dividends received from subsidiaries are recognised in the parent entity’s income statement when its right to receive the 
dividend is established.

94

5.6  DEED OF CROSS GUARANTEE
Companies in the Closed Group are party to a deed of cross guarantee dated 28 April 2017 under which each guarantees 
the debts of the others. These companies represent a Closed Group for the purposes of ASIC Corporations (Wholly-owned 
Companies) Instrument 2016/785. The companies party to Deed of Cross Guarantee are detailed at note 5.1.

Set out below is the consolidated income statement and summary of movements in consolidated retained earnings for the 
year ended 31 December 2018 for the Closed Group:

Revenue from continuing operations
Other revenue and income
Expenses from operations before finance costs, depreciation and amortisation
Impairment of Group company investments
Finance costs 
Depreciation and amortisation
Share of profits of associates 
Profit/(loss) before income tax 
Income tax expense
Profit/(loss) from continuing operations
Gain from discontinued operations
Profit/(loss) attributable to owners of the parent entity

Retained earnings/(accumulated losses)
Balance at beginning of the year
Profit/(loss) attributable to owners of the parent entity
Dividends paid
Transfers between reserves
Balance at end of the year

2018 
$’000

197,151
36,838
(153,624)
(81,185)
(16,070)
(4,153)
468
(20,575)
(17,025)
(37,600)
192,765
155,165

2017 
$’000
182,232
77,759
(150,385)
–
(18,060)
(5,217)
1,252
87,581
(26,324)
61,257
(152,618)
(91,361)

(949,306)
155,165
(244,039)
111
(1,038,069)

(836,421)
(91,361)
(21,524)
–
(949,306)

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 95

2018 
$’000

2017 
$’000

122,489
133,654
–
1,521
257,664

6,993
235,738
18,829
16,066
348,630
50,670
2,058
678,984
936,648

160,061
11,342
6,458
177,861

–
–
–
4,179
117,758
121,937
299,798
636,850

12,267
203,249
1,816
6,966
224,298

1,243
442,526
18,696
59,396
542,205
–
–
1,064,066
1,288,364

211,152
18,446
13,348
242,946

1,981
128,473
778
19,423
131,790
282,445
525,391
762,973

1,492,555
182,364
(1,038,069)
636,850
636,850

1,531,567
180,712
(949,306)
762,973
762,973

5.6  DEED OF CROSS GUARANTEE (CONTINUED)
Set out below is the consolidated balance sheet as at 31 December 2018 for the Closed Group:

Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Inventories
Other current assets
Total current assets
Non-current assets
Receivables
Other financial assets
Investments accounted for using the equity method
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Deposit on tax dispute
Other non-current assets
Total non-current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Payables
Current tax liabilities
Provisions
Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Payables
Interest bearing liabilities
Derivative liabilities
Provisions
Deferred tax liabilities
Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
Equity
Contributed equity
Reserves
Accumulated losses
Total parent entity interest
Total equity

96

6  OTHER

6.1  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

SALE OF ADSHEL
On 25 June 2018, the Group announced it had executed documentation to sell Adshel to oOh!media, subject to regulatory 
clearance. The associated assets and liabilities were consequently presented as held for sale in the 2018 Interim 
Financial Statements. 

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission clearance was obtained on 23 August 2018. Adshel was sold on 
28 September 2018 and is reported as a discontinued operation. Financial information relating to the discontinued operations 
for the period to the date of sale is set out below. 

Balances in the foreign currency translation reserve in respect of HT&E’s net investment in Adshel New Zealand were recycled 
through the income statement. 

(a)  Financial performance and cash flow information

Revenue and other income
Expenses before depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation and amortisation
Profit before income tax
Income tax expense
Profit from operations
Gain on sale of business 
Impairment of intangible assetsA
Onerous contract costsB
Write back of provisionC
Income tax (expense)/credit
Profit/(loss) after income tax from discontinued operations

Explanation of items related to discontinued operations

(A)  Impairment of Adshel Australia goodwill of $160.7 million and licence and relationships $2.6 million. 

(B)  Onerous contract costs relate to one Adshel contract provided for based on expected contract performance.

(C)  Release of provision that was not going to be utilised. 

Net cash inflows from operating activities
Net cash inflows/(outflows) from investing activities
Net cash outflows from financing activities
Net increase in cash generated by the division

28 September 
2018 
$’000

153,342
(119,755)
(14,163)
19,424
(5,585)
13,839
164,845
–
(3,670)
16,125
(3,130)
188,009

31 December 
2017 
$’000
228,150
(176,567)
(32,729)
18,854
(5,679)
13,175
–
(163,340)
–
–
790
(149,375)

28 September 
2018 
$’000

18,639
549,076
–
567,715

31 December 
2017 
$’000
44,802
(12,587)
–
32,215

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 97

2018 
$’000

570,000
2,754
572,754
(393,741)
(14,168)
164,845
–
164,845

28 September 
2018 
$’000

8,202
35,556
1,590
72,558
338,387
14,072
470,365

28,820
2,006
10,294
38,881
127
80,128

390,237
3,504
393,741

6.1  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)
(b)  Details of sale

Consideration received:
Enterprise value
Completion adjustments
Total sale consideration
Less: assets and liabilities at date of sale
Less: transaction costs and other items 
Gain on sale before income tax
Income tax expense on gain1
Gain on sale after income tax 

(1)  Refer to note 4.1(a) for more information on the tax expense. 

(c)  Assets and liabilities at date of sale
The carrying amounts of assets and liabilities as at the date of sale (28 September 2018) were: 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Receivables 
Inventories
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Other assets
Total assets of disposal group

Payables
Contract liabilities 
Provisions
Deferred tax liabilities
Other 
Total liabilities of disposal group

Net assets of disposal group 
Reclassification of foreign currency translation reserve
Assets and liabilities at date of sale

98

6.1  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)

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

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

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

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

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 99

6.2  CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
The parent entity and all wholly-owned controlled entities have provided guarantees in respect of banking facilities. As at 
31 December 2018, the facilities had been drawn to the extent of $3.0 million (2017: $139.3 million), of which the entire balance 
(2017: $5.7 million) pertains to bank guarantees. None of the $3.0 million bank guarantees relates to Adshel (2017: $3.2 million).

Certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company have provided financial guarantees of $nil (2017: $19.6 million) in respect 
of performance commitments for site rental contracts and property leases.

The Group did not have any other contingent liabilities and contractual commitments as at 31 December 2018 or 31 December 2017.

CLAIMS
Claims for damages are made against the Group from time to time in the ordinary course of business. The Directors are not 
aware of any claim that is expected to result in material costs or damages.

6.3  REMUNERATION OF AUDITORS
During the year, the following fees were paid or payable for services provided by the auditor of the Group, its related practices, 
non-related audit firms and other professional advisory and consulting firms:

Remuneration for audit or review of the financial reports
  PricewaterhouseCoopers – Australian firm
  PricewaterhouseCoopers – overseas firm
Remuneration for other assurance services
  PricewaterhouseCoopers – Australian firm
  PricewaterhouseCoopers – overseas firm
Total audit and other assurance services
Remuneration for other services
PricewaterhouseCoopers – Australian firm
Tax services
  Consulting and advice
  Compliance
  Other advisory services
PricewaterhouseCoopers – overseas firm
Tax services
  Consulting and advice
  Compliance
Total non-audit services

2018 
$’000

991
78

129
7
1,205

568
143
47

–
24
782

2017 
$’000

924
87

88
8
1,107

355
145
46

3
23
572

100

6.4  RELATED PARTIES

(A)  KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL COMPENSATION

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits
Other long-term benefits
Share-based payments

2018 
$

6,031,545
203,311
22,902
1,751,702
8,009,460

2017 
$
4,567,383
227,213
82,692
1,206,121
6,083,409

Detailed remuneration disclosures are provided in the Remuneration Report.

(B)  TRANSACTIONS WITH OTHER RELATED PARTIES 
There was $nil transactions with other related parties in the twelve months ending 31 December 2018 (2017 $nil). 

(C)  PAYABLES WITH OTHER RELATED PARTIES
There was $nil payable to related parties as at 31 December 2018 (2017: $nil).

(D)  LOANS TO RELATED PARTIES
There was $7 million in loans to related parties as at 31 December 2018 (2017: $0.7 million), being loans to HT&E Events Pty 
Limited and UnBnd Group Pty Ltd.

(E)  COMMITMENTS WITH OTHER RELATED PARTIES
During 2017, HT&E entered into an arrangement with MediaCap Fund No. 1 Trust (Trust) to potentially provide advertising 
inventory to the Trust in return for equity investment in as-yet-to-be identified start-up, high growth organisations. The Trust and 
MediaCap Pty Limited (Trustee) were deemed to be related parties of HT&E under the Corporations Act 2001 as Peter Cosgrove 
was Chairman of the Board of HT&E as well as on the Investment Committee of the Trust, and was a shareholder of the Trustee. 

During the year, Mr Cosgrove sold his shares in the Trustee and retired as a Director of HT&E. MediaCap ceased to be a 
related party of HT&E on 11 May 2018.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial StatementsHT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 101

6.5  OTHER SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION – SUBSIDIARIES
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets and liabilities of HT&E Limited and its subsidiaries. Subsidiaries 
are all entities over which the Group has control. The Group controls an entity when the Group is exposed to, or has the rights 
to, variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power to direct 
the activities of the entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They 
are deconsolidated from the date that control ceases.

Inter-entity transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group entities are eliminated. Accounting 
policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

Non-controlling interests in the results and equity of subsidiaries are shown separately in the consolidated income statement, 
statement of comprehensive income, balance sheet and statement of changes in equity respectively.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
(i)  Functional and presentation currency
Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary 
economic environment in which the entity operates (functional currency). The consolidated financial statements are presented 
in Australian dollars, which is HT&E Limited’s functional and presentation currency.

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

(iii)  Group entities
The results and financial position of all the Group entities that have a functional currency different from the presentation 
currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:
•  assets and liabilities are translated at the closing rate at the date of the balance sheet;
• 
•  all resulting exchange differences are recognised in other comprehensive income.

income and expenses are translated at average exchange rates; and

On consolidation, exchange differences arising from the translation of any net investment in foreign entities, and of borrowings 
and other financial instruments designated as hedges of such investments, are recognised in other comprehensive income. 
When a foreign operation is sold or a partial disposal occurs, a proportionate share of such exchange differences is recognised 
in the income statement as part of the gain or loss on disposal.

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

TRADE PAYABLES
Trade payables, including accruals not yet billed, are recognised when the Group becomes obliged to make future payments 
as a result of a purchase of assets or services. Trade payables are carried at amortised cost which is the fair value of the 
consideration to be paid in the future for goods and services received. Trade payables are unsecured and are generally settled 
within 30 to 45 days.

DIVIDENDS
A payable is raised for the amount of any dividend declared, determined or publicly recommended by the Directors before 
or at the end of the financial year but not distributed at balance date.

102

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

6.5  OTHER SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

SHORT-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS
A liability for short-term incentives is recognised in provisions when there is an expectation of settlement and at least one 
of the following conditions is met:
•  there are contracted terms in the relevant plan for determining the amount of the benefit;
•  the amounts to be paid are determined before the time of completion of the financial report; or
•  past practice gives clear evidence of the amount of the obligation.

Liabilities for short-term incentives are expected to be settled within 12 months and are measured at the amounts expected 
to be paid when they are settled.

INVENTORIES
Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. The cost of individual items of inventory are 
determined using the first in first out method. 

DERIVATIVES
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently 
remeasured to their fair value at each reporting date. Fair value is determined with reference to quoted market prices. The 
method of recognising the resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative is designated and effective as a hedging 
instrument, and if so, the nature of the item being hedged. The Group designates certain derivatives as either hedges of the 
fair value of recognised assets or liabilities or a firm commitment (fair value hedges) or hedges of highly probable forecast 
transactions (cash flow hedges).

FAIR VALUE HEDGES
Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profit or loss, 
together with any changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk.

CASH FLOW HEDGES
The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is 
recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated in the hedging reserve in equity. The gain or loss relating to the 
ineffective portion is recognised in the income statement in other gains/(losses).

Amounts accumulated in equity are reclassified to profit or loss in the periods when the hedged item affects profit or loss. 
The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of interest rate swaps hedging variable rate borrowings is recognised in the 
income statement within finance costs. The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of forward foreign exchange contracts 
is recognised in the income statement within other income.

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold or terminated, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge 
accounting, any cumulative gain or loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when the forecast 
transaction is ultimately recognised in the income statement. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, 
the cumulative gain or loss that was reported in equity is immediately transferred to the income statement.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 103

6.5  OTHER SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

DERIVATIVES THAT DO NOT QUALIFY FOR HEDGE ACCOUNTING
Certain derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting. Changes in the fair value of any derivative instrument that 
does not qualify for hedge accounting are recognised in the income statement.

NEW AND AMENDED STANDARDS ADOPTED BY THE GROUP 
The Group has adopted AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and AASB 9 Financial Instruments (expected credit 
loss model) from 1 January 2018. Refer to note 1.1 and 3.3 respectively. A number of other new standards are effective from 
1 January 2018 but they do not have a material effect on the Group financial statements. 

STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE
Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for the 31 December 2018 
reporting period. The Group’s assessment of the impact of these new standards and interpretations is set out below.

The IASB has issued IFRS 16 Leases, a new standard for the accounting of leases, replacing IAS 17 Leases. Refer to note 3.9 for 
more detail.

6.6  SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Since the end of the financial year, the Directors have declared the payment of a fully franked final dividend of 4.0 cents, to be 
paid 15 March 2019 (refer to note 3.8).

Other than the matters described above, the Directors are not aware of any matter or circumstance that has arisen since the 
end of the financial year that has significantly affected or may significantly affect the Group’s operations, the results of those 
operations or the Group’s state of affairs in future financial years.

104

Directors’ Declaration

In the Directors’ opinion:

(a)  the financial statements and notes set out on pages 44 to 103 are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:
(i)  complying with Accounting Standards, the Corporations Regulations 2001 and other mandatory professional reporting 

requirements; and

(ii)  giving a true and fair view of the consolidated entity’s financial position as at 31 December 2018 and of its performance 

for the financial year ended on that date; and

(b)  there are reasonable grounds to believe that the company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and 

payable; and

(c)  at the date of this declaration, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the members of the extended closed group 
identified in note 5.1 will be able to meet any obligations or liabilities to which they are, or may become, subject by virtue 
of the deed of cross guarantee described in note 5.6. 

Page 44 of the Annual Report confirms that the financial statements also comply with International Financial Reporting 
Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. 

This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Directors, after receiving the declarations required to be made 
by the Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer in accordance with section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001.

Hamish McLennan 
Chairman

Sydney 
13 February 2019 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 64345 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2017 

A.B.N. 95 008 637 643 

ANNUAL REPORT 2018 105

Independent Auditor’s Report
Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2018 

43 

A.B.N. 95 008 637 643

Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

To the members of HT&E Limited

REPORT ON THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL REPORT

OUR OPINION
In our opinion:

As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2017, I declare that to 
the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:  

(a)

The accompanying financial report of HT&E Limited (the Company) and its controlled entities (together the Group) is in 
no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit;
accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including:
and

(b)

for the year then ended 

(a)  giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 31 December 2018 and of its financial performance 
no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.
As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2018, I declare that to the best of my 
knowledge and belief, there have been:  
This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 
(b)  complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001.
(a) no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and
WHAT WE HAVE AUDITED
(b) no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.
The Group financial report comprises:
•  the consolidated balance sheet as at 31 December 2018
This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 
•  the consolidated income statement for the year then ended
•  the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year then ended
•  the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended
•  the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year then ended
•  the notes to the consolidated financial statements, which include a summary of significant accounting policies
•  the directors’ declaration.

MK Graham 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 
BASIS FOR OPINION
We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards 
are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report section of our report.

MK Graham 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Sydney 
15 February 2018 

Sydney 
13 February 2019 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

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

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

OUR AUDIT APPROACH
An audit is designed to provide reasonable assurance about whether the financial report is free from material 
misstatement. Misstatements may arise due to fraud or error. They are considered material if individually or in 
aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of the 
financial report.

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 
Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

45 

106

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2017 

A.B.N. 95 008 637 643 

Independent Auditor’s Report

Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed enough work to be able to give an opinion on the 
financial report as a whole, taking into account the geographic and management structure of the Group, its accounting 
processes and controls and the industry in which it operates.

As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2017, I declare that to 
the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:  

(a)

(b)

no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit;
and

Materiality

Key audit 
matters

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

Audit 
Scope

This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 

Materiality

•  For the purpose of our audit we used overall Group materiality of $2,940,000, which represents approximately 5% 
of the Group’s profit before tax from continuing operations excluding one-off/infrequently occurring transactions.

•  We applied this threshold, together with qualitative considerations, to determine the scope of our audit and the 
nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures and to evaluate the effect of misstatements on the financial 
report as a whole.

MK Graham 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Sydney 
15 February 2018 

•  We chose Group profit before tax from continuing operations because in our view, it is an important financial 
statement metric used in assessing the performance of the Group. We adjusted this benchmark for one-off/
infrequently occurring transactions to reflect the normal underlying performance of the Group.

•  We selected 5% based on our professional judgement, noting that it is also within the range of commonly accepted 

profit related thresholds for listed companies.

Audit Scope

•  The Group audit is aligned with the divisional structure of the Group. 
•  The nature, timing and extent of audit work required on each component of the Group was determined by the 
component’s risk characteristics and financial significance to the Group and consideration whether sufficient 
evidence had been obtained for our opinion on the financial report as a whole. The audit work involved:
 – an audit of the Australian Radio Network financial information
 – specific risk-focused audit procedures of Adshel’s financial information up to the date of disposal  

(28 September 2018)
PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
 – analytical procedures performed at the Group level
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 
 – testing of key controls operated at Group Financial Services (the Group’s shared service centre in New Zealand)
 – further audit procedures at a Group level, including over the consolidation of the Group’s reporting units and 

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 
the preparation of the financial report.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 64345 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2017 

A.B.N. 95 008 637 643 

ANNUAL REPORT 2018 107

Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

•  Our audit focused on where the Group made subjective judgements; for example, significant accounting estimates 

involving assumptions and inherently uncertain future events.

•  For the work performed by other PwC network firms operating under our instructions, we determined the level of 

(a)

As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2017, I declare that to 
the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:  

involvement we needed to have in the audit work at those locations to be satisfied that sufficient audit evidence had 
been obtained. We communicated regularly with these component audit teams during the year through face-to-
face meetings, phone calls, and written instructions where appropriate. We also met with local management of each 
financially significant operation and the Group Financial Services shared service centre.

no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit;
and
KEY AUDIT MATTERS
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the 
financial report for the current period. The key audit matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial 
report as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. 
Further, any commentary on the outcomes of a particular audit procedure is made in that context. We communicated 
the key audit matters to the Audit and Risk Committee.

This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 

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

(b)

Key audit matter
Taxation of New Zealand branch royalty income

MK Graham 
Partner 
(Refer to note 4.1)
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) is auditing the 
licensing of New Zealand mastheads by a New 
Zealand branch of one of the Group’s Australian 
entities. The ATO has challenged the Group’s 
treatment of the royalty income received by the 
New Zealand branch in respect of the mastheads 
as being non-assessable, non-exempt income for 
Australian tax purposes.

How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Our audit procedures included:
•  examining correspondence between the Group and  

Sydney 
15 February 2018 

the ATO

•  examining correspondence between the Group and its 

external advisors and considering their independence and 
technical competence

•  together with PwC tax experts, considering the conclusions 
reached by the Group’s external advisors. This included 
interviewing the advisors and comparing their conclusions 
to supporting evidence

•  agreeing the Group’s potential tax exposure for the 

31 December 2009 to 31 December 2015 tax years to the 
amounts in the amended assessments issued by the ATO 
for the respective tax years

During the year, the ATO issued amended 
assessments with tax adjustments and determined 
its position on the application of penalties and 
interest. In summary, the ATO’s current position 
in relation to this matter involves $102.5m of tax 
adjustments plus $49.0m of penalties plus $27.5m 
of interest. In that regard a deposit of $50.7m 
was paid to the ATO during the year. The Group is 
satisfied that its treatment is consistent with relevant 
PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
tax legislation and therefore no tax provision  
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
is recognised. 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

31 December 2016 tax year to the Agreement for Licence of 
Trademarks between Wilson & Horton Finance Pty Limited – 
New Zealand Branch and APN New Zealand Limited
•  assessing the adequacy of the Group’s disclosure of 
the matter in the financial statements in light of the 
requirements of Australian Accounting Standards.

•  recomputing the Group’s potential tax exposure for the  

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

The Group has lodged objections with the ATO 
regarding the amended tax assessments and 
regarding the assessments of penalties and interest. 
The Group will if necessary contest the matter 
through litigation proceedings.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

We considered this a key audit matter because of 
the significant judgement required by the Group 
in estimating the future outcome of the ATO’s 
assessment and the associated legal processes, and 
in determining appropriate disclosure of the matter 
in the financial report.

45 

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A.B.N. 95 008 637 643 

Independent Auditor’s Report

Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

Key audit matter
Sale of Adshel businesses

(Refer to note 6.1)

How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Our audit procedures included:
•  reading the key terms of the purchase and sale agreements 

As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2017, I declare that to 
the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:  

with oOh!media Limited, to assess whether the sale 
transaction was recorded and disclosed in accordance with 
the terms of this agreement

no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit;
and

•  agreeing the consideration received from the sale, as 

(a)

On 25 June 2018 the Group announced it had 
executed documentation to sell Adshel to 
oOh!media Limited, subject to regulatory clearance, 
for $570.0m. The transaction was completed on 
28 September 2018, resulting in a gain on sale of 
$164.8m. Adshel’s results have been included in the 
financial report as a discontinued operation. 

(b)

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

This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 

recorded by the Group, to the respective contracts and 
bank records

•  reconciling adjustments to the calculation of the gain 
on disposal (e.g. transaction costs) to supporting 
documentation and assessing whether the adjustments 
were applied in line with the requirements of Australian 
Accounting Standards

We determined this to be a key audit matter due to 
the financial impact of the gain on disposal to the 
total profit of the Group. 

MK Graham 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

•  reperforming the calculation of the gain on disposal by 

• 

comparing the consideration received to the carrying value 
Sydney 
of the identified assets and liabilities disposed
15 February 2018 
inspecting the tax calculations and holding discussions  
with management to assess whether the Group had 
considered and accounted for any tax implications related 
to the disposal

•  assessing the presentation and disclosure of the  

Adshel businesses as a discontinued operation in line  
with the requirements of the relevant Australian  
Accounting Standards.

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 64345 

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2017 

A.B.N. 95 008 637 643 

ANNUAL REPORT 2018 109

Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

Key audit matter
Impairment of intangible assets

(Refer to note 2.1)

How our audit addressed the key audit matter
We performed the following procedures amongst others:
•  evaluated key factors used in the Group’s approach to 
assess impairment including the methodology applied, 
the Group’s identification of CGUs and the integration of 
Conversant Media into the ARN CGU

As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2017, I declare that to 
the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:  

(a)

At 31 December 2018 the Group had $55.1m of 
goodwill and $367.5m of non-amortising intangible 
assets, which is significantly greater than materiality. 
The largest part of these assets is related to the 
Australian Radio Network (ARN) cash generating unit 
(CGU). During the year the Conversant Media CGU 
was integrated into the ARN CGU, following a change 
in the corporate structure.

(b)

no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit;
and

•  agreed forecast cash flows used in the impairment 

assessment to Board approved budgets.

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

•  evaluated the Group’s historical ability to forecast future 
cash flows by comparing budgeted amounts to reported 
actual results for the past year

This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 

•  tested whether the discount rate reflected the risks  
of the CGU by comparing the discount rate to other 
comparable companies

•  compared the growth rates used in the CGU’s cash flow 

Sydney 
forecasts to independent industry forecasts and historical 
15 February 2018 
growth rates

•  tested the mathematical accuracy of the impairment 

assessment

•  evaluated the adequacy of the disclosures made in note 
2.1, including those regarding the key assumptions and 
sensitivities to changes in such assumptions, in light of the 
requirements of Australian Accounting Standards.

At 31 December 2018, the Group performed an 
impairment assessment over the ARN CGU by:
•  calculating the ‘Value in Use’ for the CGU, using  

a discounted cash flow model (the model)
•  comparing the resulting ‘Value in Use’ to the 

MK Graham 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

CGU’s carrying value to determine the need for 
any impairment.

We considered this a key audit matter, because: 
•  the intangible assets is the largest non-current 

asset in the balance sheet

•  significant judgement is required by the Group 
in performing the impairment assessment, 
particularly in estimating:
 – forecasted future results of the business 
 – terminal growth rates 
 – revenue forecasts 
 – discount rates applied to future cash flow 

forecasts in determining whether there are 
any impairment charges. 

OTHER INFORMATION
The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in 
the annual report for the year ended 31 December 2018, but does not include the financial report and our auditor’s 
report thereon.

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and accordingly we do not express any form 
of assurance conclusion thereon.

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

In connection with our audit of the financial report, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, 
consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial report or our knowledge obtained in 
the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

If, based on the work we have performed on the other information that we obtained prior to the date of this auditor’s 
report, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. 
We have nothing to report in this regard.

45 

110

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES ANNUAL REPORT 2017 

A.B.N. 95 008 637 643 

Independent Auditor’s Report

Auditor’s Independence 
Declaration 

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DIRECTORS FOR THE FINANCIAL REPORT
The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view 
in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 2001 and for such internal control as the 
directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view and is 
free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

As lead auditor for the audit of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2017, I declare that to 
the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:  

(a)

In preparing the financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the ability of the Group to continue 
as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis 
of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or have no realistic 
alternative but to do so.

no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit;
and

(b)

no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.
AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL REPORT
This declaration is in respect of HT&E Limited and the entities it controlled during the period. 
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole is free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable 
assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the 
Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from 
fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to 
influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of the financial report.

Sydney 
15 February 2018 

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

MK Graham 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

REPORT ON THE REMUNERATION REPORT

OUR OPINION ON THE REMUNERATION REPORT
We have audited the remuneration report included in pages 24 to 42 of the directors’ report for the year ended 
31 December 2018.

In our opinion, the remuneration report of HT&E Limited for the year ended 31 December 2018 complies with section 
300A of the Corporations Act 2001.

RESPONSIBILITIES
The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report 
in accordance with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 
remuneration report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
One International Towers Sydney, Watermans Quay, Barangaroo, GPO BOX 2650, SYDNEY  NSW  2001 
T: +61 2 8266 0000, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Level 11, 1PSQ, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, PO Box 1155 Parramatta NSW 2124 
T: +61 2 9659 2476, F: +61 2 8266 9999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

MK Graham 
Partner 

Sydney 
13 February 2019

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 111

Shareholder 
Information

1. 

SHARES

(A)  SUBSTANTIAL SHAREHOLDERS
The following information is extracted from substantial shareholder notices received by the Company as at 11 February 2019:

Name
Allan Gray Australia Pty Ltd
News Pty Limited
Perpetual Limited
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
IOOF Holdings Limited
Spheria Asset Management Pty Limited
Norges Bank

(B)  TOP 20 HOLDERS OF FULLY PAID ORDINARY SHARES
The following information is extracted from the share register as at 11 February 2019:

Name
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 
J P Morgan Nominees Australia Pty Limited 
Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 
News Pty Limited 
National Nominees Limited 
BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Ltd 
BNP Paribas Noms Pty Ltd 
Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 
Pacific Custodians Pty Limited 
Warbont Nominees Pty Ltd 
CS Third Nominees Pty Limited 
Pacific Custodians Pty Limited 
Warrill Nominees Pty Ltd 
Strategic Value Pty Ltd 
S M & R W Brown Pty Ltd 
BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Ltd Hub24 Custodial Serv Ltd DRP 
Navigator Australia Ltd 
Mr Vincent Crowley 
Montorio Superannuation Nominees Pty Ltd 
Mr Timothy John Eakin 
Total

Number of 
shares
60,488,597
41,823,884
28,372,245
17,618,271
15,020,199
14,854,899
14,341,090

Number of 
shares
88,822,288
58,462,380
53,028,661
41,703,132
14,228,231
6,495,680
3,746,276
2,084,528
505,291
365,122
291,000
277,912
275,000
265,362
250,000
231,630
197,804
185,305
174,203
160,000
271,749,805

% of  
total shares
31.10
20.47
18.57
14.60
4.98
2.27
1.31
0.73
0.18
0.13
0.10
0.10
0.10
0.09
0.09
0.08
0.07
0.06
0.06
0.06
95.15

112

Shareholder Information

(C)  ANALYSIS OF INDIVIDUAL ORDINARY SHAREHOLDINGS AS AT 11 FEBRUARY 2019:

Holding
1 to 1000
1,001 to 5,000
5,001 to 10,000
10,001 to 100,000
100,001 and over
Total

Number of 
shareholders
4,242
1,163
264
258
29
5,956

Number of 
% of total 
shares
shareholders
1,122,385
71.22
2,688,922
19.53
1,907,249
4.43
4.33
7,052,188
0.49 272,827,655
100.00 285,598,399

% of 
total shares
0.39
0.94
0.67
2.47
95.53
100.00

There were 2,795 holders of less than a marketable parcel.

(D)  VOTING RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDERS
The voting rights are governed by rule 16 of the Constitution. In summary, shareholders are entitled to vote in person or by 
proxy, attorney or corporate representative at any meeting of shareholders of the Company on:
•  a show of hands – one vote per shareholder; and
•  a poll – one vote per share.

2.  OPTIONS 
There are no issued options.

3.  DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS
The relevant interest of each Director in the securities of the parent entity as at 11 February 2019 was:

Director
H McLennan
P Connolly
R Amos 
C Davis 
B Rowe

4.  OTHER INFORMATION

STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING
HT&E shares are listed on the ASX (code HT1). 

Number of 
shares
–
65,935
–
420,134
–

Number of 
options
–
–
–
–
–

ENQUIRIES
Shareholders or investors with any enquiries concerning their shareholding, shareholder details, dividend information, or 
administrative matters, should direct their enquiries to the Share Registry. Contact details for the Share Registry appear on the 
inside back cover.

DIVIDEND PAYMENTS
Dividends to shareholders may be paid direct to any bank, building society or credit union account in Australia. Shareholders 
who wish to receive dividends by electronic transfer should advise the Share Registry.

TAX FILE NUMBER (TFN)
The Company is obliged to deduct tax from unfranked or partially franked dividend payments to shareholders resident in 
Australia who have not supplied their TFN to the Share Registry. To avoid this deduction, you should advise the Share Registry 
of your TFN.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 113

REGISTER YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS
Shareholders are encouraged to register their email address to receive dividend advices, notification of availability of 
annual reports, notices of meeting, access to online voting and other shareholder communications. To register, shareholders 
should go to www.linkmarketservices.com.au, log in to their shareholding through the Investor Centre and select the 
“All communication by email” option.

Other services available to shareholders at this website include: viewing details of their shareholdings, updating address 
details, updating bank details and obtaining a variety of registry forms.

CONSOLIDATION OF HOLDINGS
Shareholders who have multiple issuer-sponsored holdings and wish to consolidate their separate shareholdings into one 
account should advise the Share Registry in writing.

CHANGE OF NAME OR ADDRESS
Shareholders who are issuer sponsored should notify the Share Registry in writing of any change in either their name or 
registered address. If a change of name has occurred, it will be necessary to supply a certified copy of the relevant deed poll 
or marriage certificate. Shareholders sponsored by a broker (CHESS) should advise their broker of the amended details.

DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN (DRP)
The Directors determined to suspend the DRP effective from 15 February 2018.

Shareholders may elect to participate in any future DRP for all or part of their shareholding. Shareholders wishing to 
participate in any future DRP should contact the Share Registry. Terms and conditions of the DRP, the DRP Guide and forms 
to apply for, vary or cancel participation in the DRP are also available on the Company’s website, www.htande.com.au.

INVESTOR INFORMATION
The Annual Report is the most comprehensive publication with information for investors. Copies of the 2018 annual 
report and 2018 Shareholder Review may be obtained by contacting the Share Registry or on the Company’s website, 
www.htande.com.au. Other financial and relevant information, including press releases on financial results and Chairman’s 
addresses, are available from the corporate office in Sydney, or at the Company’s website, www.htande.com.au.

114

Five Year 
Financial 
History

The below reflects the operations of the Group and should be read in conjunction 
with the 2018 financial statements, together with the accompanying notes. 
Certain comparative financial information for 2017 has been restated for changes 
in accounting standards.

The consolidated balance sheet at 31 December 2018 does not include the assets 
and liabilities of the entities divested as part of the sale of Adshel. 

Several financial measures are used by the Group to monitor financial performance 
against the overall strategy, including profit after taxation attributable to owners for 
the parent entity and underlying EBITDA.

Income statement

Total revenue1
EBITDA2 
Depreciation and amortisation
EBIT3 
Net interest expense
Adjusted net profit4 
Statutory net profit/(loss)
NPATA5

Balance sheet
Equity excluding non-controlling interests
Total assets
Total borrowings
Net debt

Statistical analysis
EBITDA/total revenue1 
Net debt/EBITDA (times)
Interest cover based on EBITDA2 (times)
Basic earnings per share (cents)6 
Basic earnings per share based on 
NPATA (cents)5
Dividend per share (cents)
Dividend payout ratio7 
ROIC8
No. of shares on issue (‘000)
No. of shareholders9
Market capitalisation ($’m)
Market price per share at 31 December

2018
$’m

2017
$’m

2016
$’m

2015
$’m

2014
$’m

272
72
5
67
6
51
226
56

535
748
–
(128)

26.4%
(1.8)
13.2
16.4
16.6

79.0
482%
23.9%
285,598
5,979
451
$1.58

472
118
38
80
9
43
(117)
54

586
1,028
134
115

25.1%
1.0
14.9
13.9
17.6

7.0
50%
13.4%
308,912
6,449
581
$1.88

658
91
8
83
18
63
(6)
66

801
1,145
163
143

20.0%
1.2
9.8
31.4
33.1

850
166
35
131
32
70
(10)
78

426
1,134
477
456

19.6%
2.7
5.2
44.4
49.5

843
164
33
131
36
75
11
81

434
1,129
497
458

19.3%
2.8
4.5
49.5
53.8

4.0
13%
9.6%
307,494
6,640
873
$2.84

–
0%
17.3%
1,029,041
6,818
545
$0.53

–
0%
17.2%
1,029,041
7,166
859
$0.83

(1)  Total revenue from continuing operations, excludes gain sale of Adshel.

(2)  2018 Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation from continuing operations and before exceptional items. 2017 

has not been adjusted for discontinued operations.

(3)  Earnings before interest and tax from continuing operations and before exceptional items. 2017 has not been adjusted for 

discontinued operations.

(4)  Net profit attributable to owners of the parent entity after tax and before exceptional items. 2018 is including discontinued operations.

(5)  Net adjusted profit after tax before amortisation and exceptional items. 2018 is including discontinued operations.

(6)  Earnings per share are before exceptional items. Comparative EPS has been restated for the share consolidation and the bonus 

element included in the 2016 equity raisings.

(7)  Dividend per share divided by Basic earnings per share.

(8)  2018 EBITDA for the year including Adshel for nine months divided by closing balance sheet capitalisation. Prior to 2018, earnings 

before interest, tax and amortisation. 

(9)  As at 31 December.

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643ANNUAL REPORT 2018 115

AUDITORS
PricewaterhouseCoopers
One International Towers Sydney
Watermans Quay
BARANGAROO NSW 2000

PRINCIPAL BANKERS
Bank of Queensland
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
HSBC
National Australia Bank
Westpac Banking Corporation

Corporate 
Directory

HT&E LIMITED
ABN 95 008 637 643

DIRECTORS
Hamish McLennan (Chairman)
Ciaran Davis (CEO & Managing Director)
Roger Amos
Paul Connolly
Belinda Rowe

COMPANY SECRETARY
Yvette Lamont

REGISTERED OFFICE
Level 7, Suite 3, 100 William Street
SYDNEY NSW 2011

Telephone: +61 2 9333 4999
Facsimile: +61 2 9333 4900

SHARE REGISTRY
Link Market Services Limited
Level 12, 680 George Street
SYDNEY NSW 2000
Locked Bag A14
SYDNEY SOUTH NSW 1235 

Telephone 
(Australia) 1300 553 550
(International) +61 1300 553 550

Fax
(Australia) 02 9287 0303
(International) +61 2 9287 0303

Email
registrars@linkmarketservices.com.au

Website
www.linkmarketservices.com.au

116

HT&E LIMITED AND CONTROLLED ENTITIES | ABN 95 008 637 643

Notice is given that the  
Annual General Meeting of  
HT&E Limited will be held at
PricewaterhouseCoopers 
Level 17, One International 
Towers Sydney 
Watermans Quay 
Barangaroo NSW 2000 
on 9 May 2019  
at 9:00am

Monza Recycled contains 99% 
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Monza Recycled is manufactured 
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