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Huon Aquaculture

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FY2019 Annual Report · Huon Aquaculture
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IN NEW ENVIRONMENTSGROWING HUONANNUAL REPORT 2019HUON AQUACULTURE GROUP LIMITEDHUON AQUACULTURE GROUP LIMITEDANNUAL REPORT 2019Board of Directors

Financial Summary

Contents
02  Chairman’s Message
04  Managing Director’s Review
09 
12  Operating in unique environments
30 
33  Directors’ Report
50 
51  Corporate Governance Statement
57 
63  Notes to the Financial Statements
106  Director’s Declaration
107 
113  Shareholder Information
115  Glossary of Terms
117  Corporate Directory

Independent Auditor’s Report

Financial Statements

Auditor’s Independence Declaration

Huon has invested $350 million over the past five years to ensure it 
is able to supply the growing demand for salmon in the years ahead. 
In order to operate on a larger scale and in areas not previously 
farmed in Tasmania, Huon has continued to innovate and engineer 
solutions by leveraging technology to position it at the cutting edge 
of aquaculture.

The lifecycle of a Huon salmon is two to three years and at each stage, 
the Company’s operations are underpinned by a commitment to the highest level 
of animal husbandry, environmental management, welfare and quality. 

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Annual General Meeting 2019
The Annual General Meeting of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited  
will be held at The Stables, RACV/RACT Hobart Apartment Hotel 
154–156 Collins Street Hobart, Tasmania on 23 October 2019.

Huon Aquaculture opened its Whale Point Salmon 
Nursery during the year, the first in the southern 
hemisphere. This allows salmon to be grown larger 
on land before being transferred out to sea. 

Key Financials

Sales revenue

$282.0m

FY2018: $317.9m

Operating EBITDA 

Capital Expenditure

Dividend

$47.3m

FY2018: $71.8m 

$350m

FY2014–FY2019

6.0c/s

FY2019: 3.0cps+3.0cps 
FY2018: 5.0cps+5.0cps 

FY16

FY17

FY18

FY19

FY16

FY17

FY18

FY19

FY14

FY15 FY16

FY17

FY18 FY19

FY17

FY18

FY19

 Final
 Half Year

Operational Summary

–  Sales volume fell 18% on the previous year due primarily to 
a significant reduction in biomass at the commencement of 
FY2019 following challenging operating conditions over the 
previous summer. This was further exacerbated by increased 
mortalities and poor fish growth arising from a moon jellyfish 
bloom commencing in November 2018 and a secondary 
impact as affected salmon developed gill necrosis. 

–  In November there was a jellyfish bloom that affected 

fish predominantly in the Huon River estuary that initially 
caused increased fish mortalities but subsequently a 
more serious secondary impact through gill necrosis 
causing poor fish growth rates. The resulting reduction 
in production volumes has driven up costs of production 
per kg by 18% to $11.73.

–  Revenue declined 11% as strong pricing in the domestic 

–  Huon’s capital expenditure of $64.3 million for FY2019 

market mitigated some of the impact from reduced volumes.

–  Operating margins declined from 22.6% to 16.8% as a 
result of the lower sales revenue and increased per kg 
production costs.

–  The lower operating margins are also reflected in the 
Fair Value Adjustment which declined by $9.1 million. 
The combined effect is a reduction in NPAT from 
$26.4 million to $9.5 million. 

–  The significant fall in volumes resulted in some difficult 
decisions with regards to continuity of supply. Huon’s 
longstanding arrangements to supply its Australian customer 
base meant that an 18% fall in production left it without fish 
to supply export, particularly in the Asian market. Diversifying 
our sales into markets outside Australia remains an important 
objective and renewed efforts are being made to rebuild and 
establish new relationships in the Asian region. 

–  The fair value of Huon’s biomass at year end increased by 
$39.7 million to $209.1 million. This demonstrates the size 
of Huon’s rebuild and expansion of its biomass which started 
in the middle of calendar 2018. Biomass in the water at 
30 June 2019 was 16,886 tonnes, a 30% increase on the 
12,960 tonnes at 30 June 2018.

was focused on completing construction of the Whale Point 
Salmon Nursery and expanding production capacity in 
Storm Bay. The majority of funds came from renegotiated 
debt facilities, resulting in net debt increasing 71% on pcp 
to $138.8 million and gearing rising to 44%. 

–  Adjusted Cash Flow from Operations fell during the year 

from $57.0 million to $24.9 million as a result of the reduced 
production volumes, higher costs and the increased cash 
requirement associated with rebuilding the biomass.

–  With the major capital expenditure programs of recent 

years now complete, Huon’s focus in FY2020 will be on 
consolidating operations and extracting the productivity 
benefits that operating at scale combined with innovative 
technology are designed to deliver. The operating 
environment for salmon in Australia, and globally, remains 
supportive as supply continues to lag behind the growth 
in demand. This is expected to underpin pricing in the 
domestic market at levels around $14.50 per HOG kg. 

1

Chairman’s Message

Business performance
In FY2019 Huon delivered revenues of $282 million, 
a reduction of 11% on the previous year largely due to 
the 18% decline in harvest volumes from 22,968 tonnes 
the previous year to 18,849 tonnes. Revenues were 
nevertheless supported by higher salmon prices which 
responded to the shortfall in supply by an average 
increase of 8% to $14.96/HOG kg.

Our Operating EBITDA of $47.3 million was significantly 
below the record set in 2018 of $71.8 million, as lower 
sales combined with higher costs associated with managing 
the various environmental events. Huon’s statutory net profit 
after tax (NPAT) fell 64% to $9.5 million which includes a 
reduction in the Fair Value Adjustment (FVA) by $9.1 million 
which reflects the reduction in margins. 

The decline in the FVA masks the 23% increase in the 
overall fair value of biological assets over the year from 
$169.4 million to $209.1 million as Huon works to rebuild 
and expand its biomass. This will deliver improved harvest 
volumes in FY2020 of at least 25,000 tonnes and beyond 
that a return to harvest volumes that grow in line with the 
increase in market demand. 

Our commitment to expanding our business to take 
advantage of the continued growth in domestic demand 
for salmon has seen net debt rise from $81.3 million to 
$138.8 million with gearing at 44%. Capital expenditure 
in coming years is expected to moderate to around 
$40 million per annum as we move into a phase of 
bedding down the significant investments made over the 
past two years and extracting the production efficiencies 
that are part of the process.

Strategy
Huon’s growth has been guided by its commitment to an 
over-arching business strategy based on growing the market; 
growing production and enhancing operational efficiency; 
and doing so safely and sustainably. Over the five years up 
to, and including, 2019 in excess of $350 million has been 
invested in the context of delivering on this strategy. 

During the implementation of the $200 million Controlled 
Growth Strategy phase we focused on re-engineering every 
step in our production processes to enable us to operate in 
high-energy sites offshore. We also ensured our systems, 
technology and infrastructure were world class, innovative 
and designed to build additional layers of efficiency and 
resilience into our business. 

Neil Kearney 
Chairman

It has been an eventful and, at times, very difficult year 
for Huon. We completed the second and final stage of 
our recent $150 million capital expenditure programme 
which will enable Huon to expand its production capacity 
over the next 3-5 years in line with the continued growth 
in demand for salmon in Australia. This year we opened 
our land based salmon nursery at Whale Point and in 
May 2019 Huon was granted an Environmental Licence 
to operate a new lease in Storm Bay. At the same time we 
faced a number of environmental events during the year 
that at times tested Huon’s staff to their limits.

The year began with reduced expectations of production 
volumes as a result of bringing forward fish for harvest 
in FY2018. The outlook deteriorated, however, due to a 
combination of warm water temperatures that extended 
through to April and the secondary impacts on fish health 
and growth rates as a result of contact with moon jellyfish 
late in 2018. Fish mortalities and poor recovery in growth 
rates resulted in lower tonnages and higher production 
costs per kg that weighed heavily on FY2019 earnings. 

Whether farming on land or sea, the reality is that the 
environment exerts a significant influence over the capacity 
of any business to deliver growth in sales and earnings. 
This year, despite being well prepared and responding 
quickly, the events that unfolded made it difficult for Huon 
to match last years’ performance.

2

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Growing  
the market

Growing  
safely and  
sustainability

Growing  
production  
and operational 
efficiency

The Huon three pillar business strategy

In 2017 the Board approved the second stage of a two 
year $150 million capital investment programme, this time 
to enable the Company to almost double its production 
capacity. This included upscaling Huon’s infrastructure, 
starting with construction of the largest salmon nursery 
in the southern hemisphere at Whale Point and the 
commissioning of two new feed barges and a well-boat 
that each have almost double the capacity of those 
currently in use. 

The Board expects the level of investment in the 
business to moderate as the focus shifts to delivering 
the operational and productivity benefits enabled by the 
significant capital expenditure over the past five years. 
The size and scale of the changes in the business should 
not be underestimated and will create a step change in 
Huon’s growth over the next five years. 

FY2020 will be the first year since 2014 that Huon 
has not been implementing significant changes to the 
way it operates. The next few years, therefore, will be 
a period of consolidation and working to maximise 
production efficiencies.

Dividend
Huon’s dividend policy is to maintain an annual dividend 
pay-out ratio of up to 35% of net operating profit after 
tax, subject to the financing and capital expenditure 
requirements of the Company. 

In light of the environmental challenges that have held 
back the financial performance of the business in FY2019, 
Directors have declared a final dividend of 3.0 cents 
per share, franked at 50%. This brings the total dividend 
payment for the year to 6.0 cents per share. 

The final dividend will be paid on 17 October 2019 to 
shareholders as at the record date of 27 September 2019. 

People 
The wellbeing of our people remains of paramount 
importance at Huon. This includes a commitment to 
developing health and safety programs within the business, 
which has translated into an overall improvement in safety 
performance during FY2019. Huon is equally focused on 
delivering its People & Capability strategy, which provides 
clear career pathways and this year included the very 
successful Huon Leaders program. 

Conclusion 
Your Directors are confident Huon’s sound business 
strategy, combined with the completion of our significant 
investment program, has positioned the business to enter 
a new growth phase. The company has demonstrated 
its resilience to a range of extreme weather and 
environmental events over the past year. At the same 
time it has completed the implementation of a major 
infrastructure programme that will allow Huon to expand 
capacity and drive operational efficiencies. We are 
very confident that the investment undertaken over the 
past two years will form the foundation for sustainable 
improvements to revenue, earnings and shareholder 
returns over the coming years.

On behalf of the Board I wish to thank our customers, 
suppliers, local communities, employees, and our 
shareholders for their support. 

Neil Kearney, Chairman

3

Managing Director’s Review

Huon Aquaculture’s financial performance 
in FY2019 suffered from the impact 

of two environmental events which were both costly 
to manage as well as having a material effect on the 
health and growth of our salmon. They highlight the 
risks and challenges that are faced when working 
with nature and a reminder that while there are many 
things we cannot control, we can prepare for them, 
manage through the difficult period as efficiently as 
possible and ensure the business is resilient enough 
to recover quickly. 

Peter Bender 
Managing Director and  
Chief Executive Officer

Expanding capacity 
Our commitment to building both resilience and capacity 
continued during FY2019 with completion of the final 
stage in the roll out of a $75 million capital expenditure 
programme. Much of the work being done as part of this 
programme is innovative and ground breaking, not just 
in Australia but globally, including our grow-out facility at 
Whale Point, 60km south of Hobart. This is designed to 
enable Huon to increase its production capacity over the 
next 3-5 years to meet the steady increase in demand for 
Atlantic salmon grown in Tasmania. 

Whale Point Salmon Nursery in operation
Construction of the new salmon nursery at Whale Point 
was completed in December 2018 and commissioned in 
February 2019 when the first intake of 300,000 juvenile 
salmon were transferred from Huon’s Forest Home 
hatchery to Whale Point. The current season will see just 
under 2 million smolt through the facility with an average 
weight of over 400gm. This includes a population of 
fish which were put to sea at greater than 1.0kg. These 
were the biggest land-grown salmon ever recorded in the 
southern hemisphere. They will remain at sea for 9-10 
months until harvest in March/April 2020. 

Fish harvest affected by jellyfish
The growing season started well and, despite commencing 
the year with a significant reduction in biomass due to poor 
operating conditions in the summer of the previous year, 
there was an expectation that production targets would 
be achieved. In the closing weeks of 2018 however Huon 
leases in the Huon River and D’Entrecasteaux Channel 
were struck by a moon jellyfish bloom, an infrequent event 
with last occurrence in the summer of 2012/3. While 
quickly controlled, there were fish mortalities and there 
was an expectation that growth rates would be affected. 
Nevertheless a more serious secondary impact manifested 
during January and February as affected salmon also 
developed gill necrosis which was exacerbated by the 
persistently high warm water temperatures.

In a similar pattern to the previous year, water 
temperatures in Huon’s southern Tasmania growing 
sites remained high beyond February through to April. 
Temperatures above 16˚C are not optimal for growth, 
nor are they conducive to recovery from gill necrosis. As a 
consequence production volumes for the year fell further 
due to higher than expected mortalities and lower fish 
weights. Although an infrequent event, any future outbreak 
should have less impacts for Huon as it is planned to have 
much less fish stocked at these highest impacted sites.

4

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Operating NPAT Comparison  
FY2018 – FY2019 ($/kg sold)

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.0

1.53

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1.12

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(0.03)

(1.24)

(0.28)

(0.27)

0.49

0.84

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(0.27)

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New lease granted in Storm Bay 
Huon’s investment in new infrastructure over the past 
five years to enable it to farm salmon in high-energy sites 
at Storm Bay will help to provide some protection from 
the impacts from warm water temperatures and jellyfish 
blooms. The 2018 and 2019 salmon Year Class will see the 
full utilisation of two of the four Storm Bay lease sites and 
commencement of stocking at the new Yellow Bluff lease.

In May 2019 Huon was granted an Environmental Licence 
for a new lease at Storm Bay in the area known as East 
of Yellow Bluff. The new lease site is 1.5kms from Bruny 
Island and will not only allow an expansion of capacity 
in Storm Bay by up to 11,500 tonnes but also enable 
Huon to deliver improved biosecurity by including further 
separation of Year Classes of fish. 

Overview of Financial Performance
The impact of the events, just outlined, on Huon’s harvest 
and sales for FY2019 was significant. Volumes fell (18%) 
as a consequence of the significant reduction in tonnage 
arising from the poor summer the previous year and 
the impacts from the moon jellyfish. With current fish at 
sea, and the new Year Class well underway, we have a 
commitment to rebuild the biomass back to production 
levels that would have been in place if not for the losses 
experienced over the past 18 months. While revenue fell 
11% for the year due to lower volumes, the impact was 
mitigated by higher prices. The average price per HOG kg 
rose 8% to a record $14.96 as the market adjusted to the 
shortage of supply.

Profitability was impacted by higher than expected 
mortalities and poor growth rates leading to low harvest 
weights. Additional costs were incurred in managing the 
moon jellyfish bloom and disruptions caused by bush fires 
that threatened Huon facilities over the summer. 

As a result the average cost of production per HOG kg for 
the year rose from $9.91 to $11.73. While the average cost 
of production fell in the second half of FY2019 compared 
to the first half, it is expected that it will remain elevated in 
the first half of FY2020 as a result of the effects of lower 
growth from gill necrosis on the 2018 Year Class.

The net effect of both lower sales and higher costs was 
a 34% fall in Operating EBITDA to $47.3 million, with 
margins declining from 23% to 17%. 

Importantly, the significant investment in rebuilding the 
biomass that began in 1H2019 is reflected in a 23% uplift 
in the fair value of biological assets to $209.1 million at 
the end of FY2019 compared to the previous year.

The increased capital expenditure commitments during 
the year were funded entirely from cash flow and 
borrowings, resulting in overall net debt rising from 
$81.3 million to $138.8 million at the end of FY2019 and 
gearing (net debt/net assets) at 44%. While Huon has not 
operated with this level of gearing since listing in 2014, 
new debt facilities negotiated last year included improved 
covenants that support the current debt level. 

5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average Daily Water Temperature  
FY2019 (°C @ 5 metres)

20

18

16

14

12

10

Below 16°C is the 
 optimum temperature  
for recovery from 
gill necrosis

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Source: Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology Summary

Operating overview 
The key drivers underlying Huon’s performance during 
FY2019 were:

–  Lower than expected tonnages and reduced 

average fish weight due to challenging growing 
conditions over summer 

–  Higher per kg costs of production arising from the initial 
reduction in volumes at the start of the year, increased 
further as a result of fish mortalities and poor growth 
rates from the jellyfish bloom secondary health impacts 
for fish exposed to the jellyfish

–  The continued strength in the international and 

domestic salmon price. 

Huon harvested 18,849 tonnes of fish during FY2019, 
which was below our target production of 20,000 tonnes 
set at the beginning of the year for the reasons previously 
outlined. The average fish harvest weight of 4.40kg for 
the year was well below the previous five year average 
of 4.60kg reflecting the extent to which fish growth was 
impacted by gill necrosis, and the warm water temperature. 
This was particularly evident in the second half when the 
average weight fell to 4.10kg. Further flow-on effects can 
be anticipated in FY2020 until the 2018 Year Class fish 
weight recovers.

The reduced volume of salmon available for sale 
necessitated a short term shift in Huon’s marketing 
strategy with priority placed on meeting the domestic 
market. Hard won contracts over the previous 18 months 
with retail clients in the international market could not 
be fulfilled, resulting in sales falling from 7% to 2% of 
revenue. With production volumes picking up in FY2020 
and beyond, a renewed effort to target contracted 
revenue in the Asian market is underway.

6

Huon’s increase in production capacity puts it in a strong 
position to increase market share for Australian grown 
salmon. With demand for salmon growing by 10%pa in 
Australia, Huon is focused on at least matching that rate 
of growth in supply. In FY2019 28% of sales went through 
the retail channel and 64% into the wholesale market. 
Maintaining supply through the retail channel is a key 
focus for Huon’s strategy and the opening of the Ingleburn 
processing and distribution facility in NSW ensures fresh 
quality product to the large eastern seafood market. 

While Huon has had to manage its supply shortfall with 
customers over the past year, the issue of supply falling 
short of demand remains an issue both domestically 
and globally.

Prices in the domestic market were stable following 
increases late in FY2018 and are expected to continue 
to trade at similar levels in FY2020 while the market 
rebuilds biomass to levels capable of meeting demand. 
Huon received record prices for its salmon, averaging 
$15.63/kg in the wholesale market compared with 
$14.92/kg in FY2018.

International salmon prices have also remained robust 
during the year as the growth in global demand for salmon 
(7%pa) continues to outstrip the major producer countries’ 
ability to increase supply. Both Norway and Chile are 
operating with supply constraints, including access to new 
leases, which is an issue for producing countries globally. 
Rabobank has forecast supply growth over the next two 
years of 3% in 2020 and 7% in 2021, which is expected 
to underpin an average price of 62-63 NOK from 2019 
to 2021 (cf. 60 NOK, 2017-2018).

During the year our Yellowtail Kingfish trial at Port 
Stephens NSW was successfully concluded. We were also 
granted a lease site off the coast of Geraldton, Western 
Australia, to undertake a two year investigation into the 
suitability of this location for farming Yellowtail Kingfish.

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Lost Time Injury 
Frequency Rate 
(LTIFR) 
Per million 
hours worked

Average Lost 
Time Rate 
(ALTR) 
Hours lost  
per employee

Incident Rate 
(IR) 
Lost Time  
Injuries per  
100 employees

14

12

10

1.0

0.97

0.6

3

4

4

FY17

FY18

FY19

FY17

FY18

FY19

FY17

FY18

FY19

People and Safety 
Huon continues to review and improve its safety systems, 
programs and processes. This includes an ongoing focus 
on the development and implementation of structured 
health and safety programs. These are aimed at not only 
reducing our risks but also improving the wellbeing of our 
workforce and supporting the ability of our people and 
leaders to manage safety effectively.

A key part of this is ensuring that the Consultation, 
Cooperation and Coordination Framework continues to 
support the expansion of activities across the group.

Overall safety performance continued to improve, 
particularly the ALTR which fell from 14 hours lost per 
employee the previous year to 10 hours.

Capability Building
Huon has maintained a commitment to developing 
its workforce and building capability. The People & 
Capability strategy continues to be rolled out, including 
the successful Huon Leaders program which has 
supported 42 participants in activities designed to 
strengthen their leadership capacity. The program has 
also laid the groundwork for a future program that 
will harness the skill sets of Huon’s Emerging Leaders 
in FY2020.

Huon is committed to the ongoing development of the 
workforce with 115 employees completing VET sector 
training courses including Certificate III Aquaculture, 
Seafood Processing, Electro technology and other role 
specific development training. General literacy, numeracy 
and digital literacy support continues to be offered to 
all employees. 

In FY2020 a new, whole of business Innovation Program 
will be introduced to foster the development of innovation 
as a core skill set. This will build on the culture of 
innovation and employee idea generation that is a part 
of Huon’s DNA.

Future leadership capability has been a strong focus 
over the past twelve months with the development of 
a Succession Planning framework to support senior 
management to identify, develop and engage the 
current and future leadership cohort on a consistent 
basis. Supporting this framework is a Workforce 
Development strategy which provides clear and 
transparent career development options to assist in 
retaining and attracting talent.

Outlook 
We have good reason to be confident that Huon’s 
performance will be significantly better than the year just 
ended. The new financial year starts with record biomass 
in the water, two of the four Storm Bay sites in production, 
and new Year Class fish going to the new lease at East 
of Yellow Bluff. By December 2019 50% of Huon’s total 
20,000 tonne lease allocation within Storm Bay will be 
in production which, together with the 16,500 tonnes 
from the Huon River, D’Entrecasteaux Channel and 
Macquarie Harbour, should deliver a harvest of at least 
25,000 tonnes in FY2020.

The Whale Point Nursery has started to deliver larger 
fish for the final grow out stage at sea, shortening the 
period that salmon are in the water from 14 months to 
9-10 months. This will enable us to better manage the 
existing leases at sea, including longer fallow periods 
between stocking, which in turn delivers biosecurity and 
environmental benefits. 

The first of two new purpose built 600 tonne feed barges 
was towed to and moored in Storm Bay in March 2019. 
Specially designed to operate in this environment, it is 
fully automated, unmanned and able to hold much larger 
quantities of fish feed than our other feed barges. This 
will ensure that fish can continue to be fed in any weather, 
allowing them to fully realise their growth potential. 

7

We expect retail sales to at least reflect the growth in 
demand, with a particular focus on NSW following the 
opening of Huon’s new processing facility which will 
enable it to supply fresh salmon to outlets in Sydney 
and the rest of the eastern seaboard. 

The major capital expenditure programmes of recent 
years are now complete and Huon will concentrate on 
consolidating operations and extracting the productivity 
benefits that operating at scale combined with innovative 
technology are designed to deliver. 

The building blocks are now in place for Huon to deliver 
the expansion in production that was envisaged at the 
time its Controlled Growth Strategy was launched in 2014. 
We have record biomass in the water which is expected 
to translate into a harvest of at least 25,000 tonnes 
in FY2020 and fish in production that will support a 
30,000 tonne production in FY2021. The market remains 
undersupplied relative to demand which should support 
average pricing up to $14.50/kg over the short to medium 
term. Together these are set to deliver strong revenue 
growth which, combined with steady gains in productivity 
over the next three years, will translate into rising 
profitability and improved returns for shareholders.

Peter Bender, Managing Director  
and Chief Executive Officer

With around one third of production coming from 
Storm Bay, and no adverse events, we expect the 
average HOG weight this year will be close to 5kg. 
Nevertheless while we remain focused on driving 
operating efficiencies through the business, the residual 
impact of the fish losses and growth impacts from the 
2018 Year Class will slow the rate at which the cost of 
production comes down. We are therefore expecting 
cost of production (including freight) to be above 
$11.50/HOG kg in FY2020 but reducing for FY2021 
to around $10.50/HOG kg.

Revenue will benefit from pricing being sustained at 
up to $14.50/HOG kg given that domestic demand 
continues to grow at around 10% pa whilst the supply 
dynamics both domestically and globally continue 
to be tight. 

Huon’s channel mix in FY2020 will change following 
the conclusion of a three year retail supply agreement 
in June 2019. While its primary focus will continue to 
be on growing its wholesale business, new strategies 
to supply Huon branded salmon to a range of food 
retail outlets and suppliers, as well as supermarkets, 
are being actively pursued. 

Early in FY2020 Huon was successful in securing 
contracts for the sale of six of its cured, cold and 
hot smoked branded product range within Coles 
supermarkets nationally (including two Ocean Trout 
products). This is a big step change for Huon in terms 
of the distribution of its branded products. Approximately 
half the adult Australian population shops at Coles and 
will now be exposed to the brand for the first time in 
more than five years. This increased profile, together 
with growing production volumes for sale in coming 
years, will drive greater investment in marketing the 
brand. This is consistent with our focus on increasing 
per capita consumption of salmon in Australia together 
with raising Huon’s premium brand positioning within 
the domestic market. 

8

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Financial Summary 

– Harvest tonnage fell 18% due to a significant reduction in 
biomass carried over from the previous year together with 
increased mortalities and poor fish growth as a result of 
contact with moon jellyfish in late 2018. Improved salmon 
pricing mitigated the impact on revenue which nevertheless 
declined by 11%.

– Operating NPAT declined 55% to $15.9 million on lower 
volumes, reduced revenue and higher per kg production 
costs. Statutory NPAT fell 64% to $9.5 million due to a 
decline in the Fair Value Adjustment of Biological Assets. 

– Reduced harvest volumes resulted in supply being 

concentrated on the domestic market with retail channels 
taking 28% and the wholesale market 64%. Export volumes 
fell 64% to 1,851 tonnes. 

– Average harvest weights declined from 4.78kg to 4.40kg 
due predominantly to the emergence of gill necrosis in 

fish affected by the jellyfish and exacerbated by warmer 
water temperatures persisting for longer at levels that were 
not conducive for the compromised fish to thrive. 

– Operating EBITDA fell 34% to $47.3 million as falling 
revenue and higher per kg production costs squeezed 
margins down from 23% to 17%. Average cost of production 
rose from $9.91/HOG kg in FY2018 to $11.73/HOG kg.

– The final stage of a large two year capital expenditure 

program saw $64.3 million spent on the completion of the 
Whale Point nursery and installation of new infrastructure at 
Storm Bay. This was largely debt funded resulting in net debt 
and gearing increasing to $138.8 million and 44%.

– The fair value of Huon’s biomass at year end increased 
by $39.7 million to $209.1 million. Biomass in the water 
at 30 June 2019 was 30% higher at 16,886 tonnes 
compared to 30 June 2018.

Tonnage 
Revenue(1)

Revenue per HOG kg
EBITDA(2)
EBITDA per HOG kg
EBITDA margin
EBIT
NPAT

Fair value adjustment
Related income tax (expense)/refund(3)
Biological assets

Earnings per share
Return on assets(4)
Operating cash flow
Net debt(5)
Total gearing ratio(6)

t
$M

$/kg
$M
$/kg
%
$M
$M

$M
$M
$M

c 
%
$M
$M
%

FY2019

FY2018

FY2017

18,849
282.0

 22,968 
317.9

 18,448 
 259.5 

14.96
38.2
2.03
13.5%
12.5
9.5

 (9.1)
2.7
209.1

10.82
2.2%
14.5
138.8
44.2%

 13.84 
58.9
2.56
18.5%
34.2
26.4

 (12.9)
3.9
169.4

30.21
6.7%
57.9
81.3
26.1%

 14.07 
 82.0 
 4.44 
31.6%
 60.1 
 42.2 

 19.2 
 (5.8)
 188.0 

48.27
12.2%
54.0
 43.0 
14.7%

Operating Earnings and Cash Flow

Revenue(1) 

$282.0m

Operating 
EBITDA(7)
$47.3m

Operating  
NPAT(8)
$15.9m

Operating 
Cash Flow
$14.5m

FY16

FY17

FY18

FY19

FY16

FY17

FY18

FY19

FY16

FY17

FY18

FY19

FY16

FY17

FY18

FY19

1 
2 

Revenue from the sale of goods.
 EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure which is used to measure business performance, using net depreciation 
and amortisation recognised in the income statement.
Related income tax at current tax rate.
Return on Assets is measured as statutory EBIT/average total assets.

3 
4 
5  Net Debt is total debt net of cash and cash equivalents.
6 
7  Operating EBITDA excludes the impact of the Fair Value Adjustment of Biological Assets.
8  Operating NPAT excludes the impact of the Fair Value Adjustment of Biological Assets and related tax impact.

Total Gearing Ratio is measured as debt (net of cash)/net assets.

Tonnage

18,849t

(FY2018: 22,968t)

Sales Revenue(1)

$282.0m

(FY2018: $317.9m)

Sales Revenue 
by Channel:
Wholesale

64%

(FY2018: 58%)

Retail: Domestic

28%

(FY2018: 24%)

Retail: International

2%

(FY2018: 7%)

Export

6%

(FY2018: 11%)

Employees

665

(FY2018: 600) 

9

Key Financials

Operational Performance
Six months ended

Harvest volume HOG
Revenue from operations
Revenue $/HOG kg
Cost of production
Cost of production $/HOG kg
Freight and distribution
Freight and distribution $/HOG kg
Operating EBITDA*
Operating EBITDA $/HOG kg
Margin 
Fair value adjustment

Operational Performance

$/HOG kg
16.00

12.00

8.00

4.00

0.00

DEC 2016

JUN 2017

DEC 2017

JUN 2018

DEC 2018

JUN 2019

Operating EBITDA 
Freight and distribution

Cost of production 
Revenue 

Biological Assets
Six months ended

Biological assets at fair value 
Fair value adjustment (FVA)
Biological assets (excluding FVA)
Total weight of live finfish at sea 
Biological asset value/kg (live)
Fair value adjustment/kg (live)
Biological assets/kg (live) (excluding FVA)
Number of fish (harvest)
Sales volume (HOG kg)
Average HOG weight
Average price/HOG kg (net sales)
Net sales 

Fish weight and price

$/HOG kg
15.50

15.00

14.50

14.00

13.50

13.00

12.50

DEC 2016

JUN 2017

DEC 2017

JUN 2018

DEC 2018

JUN 2019

Average price/HOG kg
Average HOG weight (kg)

30 Jun 
2019

9,830
145.7
 14.82 
 (112.7)
 (11.46)
 (7.2)
 (0.73)
25.7
2.62
17.7%
 (34.1)

31 Dec 
2018

9,019
136.3
 15.11 
 (108.4)
 (12.02)
 (6.3)
 (0.70)
21.6
2.39
15.8%
25.0

30 Jun 
2018

 10,275 
147.4
 14.35 
 (107.1)
 (10.42)
 (7.7)
 (0.75)
32.6
 3.17 
22.1%
 (25.2)

31 Dec 
2017

 12,693 
 170.5 
 13.43 
 (120.6)
 (9.50)
 (10.7)
 (0.84)
 39.2 
 3.09 
23.0%
 12.3 

t
$M
$/kg
$M
$/kg
$M
$/kg
$M
$/kg
%
$M

–  A reduction in biomass levels at the start of the year due to challenging 

operating conditions in the previous summer combined with losses due to 
a moon jellyfish event, resulted in a significant fall in production volumes. 
Expectations of harvest volumes of circa 23,000 tonnes at the beginning 
of the year fell well short by year end to just under 19,000 tonnes.

–  Salmon prices responded to the shortfall in supply that emerged during 

the course of the year in Australia with Huon achieving a record average 
price in the first half of $15.11kg

–  The cost of production per kg was seriously affected by the lower 

tonnage and unplanned activities associated with managing events such 
as the jellyfish bloom and bushfires in the Huon Valley over summer. 
Production costs peaked in the first half at $12.02/HOG kg.

–  Reduced revenue combined with higher costs contributed to much tighter 
operating margins which fell from 23% in FY2018 to 17% in FY2019. 
Operating EBITDA/HOG kg fell to $2.39/kg in the first half of the year.

30 Jun 
2019

209.1
26.6
182.5
16,886
12.38
1.58
10.81
 2,397 
9,830
 4.10 
 14.82 
145.7

31 Dec 
2018

228.5
60.7
167.8
18,939
12.07
3.21
8.86
1,888
9,019
4.78
15.11
136.3

30 Jun 
2018

169.4
35.7
133.7
 12,960 
13.07
 2.75 
10.32
 2,404 
 10,275 
 4.27 
 14.35 
 147.4 

31 Dec 
2017

 195.3 
 60.9 
 134.4 
 17,475 
 11.18 
 3.48 
 7.69 
 2,398 
 12,693 
 5.29 
 13.43 
 170.5 

$M
$M
$M
t
$/kg
$/kg
$/kg
000’s
t
kg
$/kg
$M

kg
6.00

5.50

5.00

4.50

4.00

3.50

3.00

–  The fair value of biological assets rose 23% (over pcp) 

to $209.1m while biomass at sea rose 30% (over pcp) to 
16,886 tonnes. This includes the significant rebuild of the 
biomass that commenced in the first half of the year.

–  Biological assets per kg (excluding FVA) rose 5% (over pcp) 
to $10.81, a reflection of the rise in per kg production costs 
from lost fish and lost growth.

–  The $9.1m decline in the Fair Value Adjustment for FY2019 

reflects squeezed margins from the higher per kg cost.
–  Average harvest weight fell in the second half to 4.10kg 

reflecting the impact on fish health as some fish contracted 
gill necrosis following contact with jellyfish. This was 
exacerbated by the poor growing conditions as water 
temperatures remained high to the end of April.

*    Operating EBITDA excludes the impact of the Fair Value Adjustment of Biological Assets.

10

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Sales Channel
Six months ended

Wholesale HOG kg
Retail Domestic HOG kg
Retail International HOG kg
Export HOG kg
Total HOG kg
Wholesale % of revenue
Retail Domestic % of revenue
Retail International % of revenue
Export % of revenue 
Wholesale $/HOG kg
Retail Domestic $/HOG kg
Retail International $/HOG kg
Export $/HOG kg

30 Jun 
2019

5,981
2,615
288
946
9,830
63%
26%
3%
8%
 15.46 
14.30
14.06
12.48

31 Dec 
2018

5,507
2,895
213
404
9,019
64%
30%
2%
4%
15.81
14.21
14.08
12.47

30 Jun 
2018

 5,820 
 3,054 
1,146
255
 10,275 
60%
28%
10%
2%
 15.17 
 13.57 
12.91
11.47

31 Dec 
2017

 6,372 
 2,611 
636
3,074
 12,693 
55%
21%
5%
20%
 14.69 
 13.62 
12.45
10.87

t
t
t
t
t
%
%
%
%
$/kg
$/kg
$/kg
$/kg

Distribution Channels by Price and Contribution to Sales

$/HOG kg
16.00

% of revenue
100%

12.00

8.00

4.00

0.00

DEC 2016

JUN 2017

DEC 2017

JUN 2018

DEC 2018

JUN 2019

Export

Retail:

Wholesale Domestic

Retail:
International

$/HOG kg
% of sales

Cash Generation
Six months ended

Operating EBITDA*
Cash flow from operations
Add  – net interest paid

– tax paid/(refunded) 

Adjusted cash flow from operations
EBITDA conversion
Capex
Cash at end of period

Operational Cash Flow

$M
40

30

20

10

0

DEC 2016

JUN 2017

DEC 2017

JUN 2018

DEC 2018

JUN 2019

Adjusted Cash Flow from Operations
EBITDA Conversion

80%

60%

40%

20%

0%

$M
$M
$M
$M

$M
%
$M
$M

120%

100%

80%

60%

40%

20%

0%

–  The focus of sales shifted firmly back onto the domestic market 
as sales into new retail markets in Taiwan and China, which last 
year accounted for 7% of revenue, ceased due to the shortage of 
supply. Small volumes to longstanding customers in Japan were 
however maintained. 

–  Volumes supplied to the domestic retail channel were largely 

maintained despite demand continuing to grow. The proportion 
of Huon’s sales into this segment increased to 28% across the 
year, peaking at 30% in the first half. 

–  Supply constraints also saw Huon continue to reduce its volumes 
sold into the export spot market from 3,329 tonnes in FY2018 
to 1,350 tonnes in FY2019. Uncontracted export sales over the 
year accounted for 6% of revenue.

–  The wholesale market continues to be Huon’s dominant segment 
by volume and sales (64%) with prices increasing during the year 
to record levels.

30 Jun 
2019

31 Dec 
2018

25.7
16.0
5.4
 (5.2)

16.2
63%
22.9
2.6

21.6
(1.6)
2.8
7.5

8.7
40%
41.4
4.5

30 Jun 
2018

32.6
 34.8 
 1.7 
 (4.2)

32.3
99%
 44.5 
2.8

31 Dec 
2017

 39.2 
 23.2 
 1.6 
–

 24.8 
63%
 43.2 
7.4

–  The decline in profit due to lower sales and lower margins 

resulted in operating cash flow(before tax and interest) falling 
from $57.0m (in pcp) to $24.9m.

–  EBITDA conversion averaged 53% across the year as per kg 

costs continued to rise during the second half, a time typically 
associated with costs easing following the rebuilding of the 
biomass in the first half. This year weaker profitability as a 
result of increased per kg operating costs combined with the 
costs of building a much larger biomass, put additional strain 
on cash flow in the second half. 

–  Huon spent $64.3m in capex, which included funding the 

final stage of construction of the Whale Point nursery as well 
as continued expansion of marine farms in Storm Bay.

–  Net debt rose 70% to $138.8m as it funded the majority of 
the capex spend during the year. This resulted in gearing 
rising to 44%, a level which is expected to be maintained over 
the short term.

11

 
 
Operating in unique environments

Huon is fortunate to farm in Tasmania’s unique environment, allowing 
the Company to raise salmon in locations in which they thrive. From the 
time Huon salmon start their life in hatcheries up until they are harvested, 
their environment plays a vital role in their health, growth and quality. 

Map Key

  Offices
  Processing facilities
   Farming regions

A  Bridport Hatchery
B  Springfield Hatchery
C  Millybrook Hatchery
D  SALTAS Hatchery
E  Derwent Hatchery
F  New Norfolk Brood Facility
G  Bagdad Brood Facility
H  Lonnavale Hatchery
I 
J 

 Forest Home Hatchery
 Whale Point Salmon Nursery

BRISBANE

AU S T R A L I A

PERTH

SYDNEY

Processing 
Facility

MELBOURNE

TASMANIA

HOBART

DEVONPORT

Parramatta Creek  
Processing Facility

LAUNCESTON

A

B

C

TA S M A N I A

Macquarie 
Harbour

Onshore
Whale Point Salmon Nursery, located 
on the Huon River, is the southern 
hemisphere’s first onshore salmon 
nursery and represents a step change 
in our production capability.

Marine regions
Macquarie Harbour
Less than 10% of Huon’s salmon 
production comes from Macquarie 
Harbour with stocking densities kept 
low in order to manage sustainable 
farming in this unique water system.

Huon River and  
D’Entrecasteaux Channel
Hideaway Bay on the Huon River 
operates as the shore base for Huon’s 
operations. This sheltered bay, with its 
calm waters, is where Huon manages 
its harvest as well as undertaking 
Australia’s experimental and pre-
commercial use fish feed trials.

12

HOBART

D

H

F

G

E

I

J

Storm Bay

Hideaway Bay 

Storm Bay
Huon began farming Storm Bay in 
2014 as part of its long term growth 
strategy to shift salmon farming 
into high-energy offshore sites. The 
granting of the new East of Yellow 
Bluff lease in Strom Bay will double 
the capacity of our offshore sites. 

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019  
 
East of Yellow Bluff  
(late smolt)

Storm Bay  
(growout)

 (2 unused sites)

Map Key

  Lease zones
  High-energy lease zones
   Land base facilities

Port Huon (engineering workshop and net slab)

Whale Point Salmon Nursery

Police Point (early smolt)

Hideaway Bay 
(service, research and 
 harvesting)

Garden Island  
(early smolt)

Flathead Bay  
(early smolt)

Roaring (early smolt)

Zuidpool North  
(growout)

Zuidpool South  
(growout)

Growing capacity
With the focus for expansion solely on high-energy offshore sites,  
the Storm Bay leases together with the new site at 
East of Yellow Bluff provide Huon with the lease capacity to produce 
an additional 11,500 tonnes over the next three to five years.

+11,500T

STORM BAY

HUON AND CHANNEL

MACQUARIE HARBOUR

s
e
s
a
e
L

l

a
n
o

i
t

a
r
e
p
O

T
0
0
0
,
0
2

T
0
0
5
,
6
1

13

D’Entrecasteaux ChannelHuon RiverTasman Sea 
 
 
 
Operating in unique environments:
Whale Point Salmon Nursery 

1

The 
Whale Point  
Salmon Nursery  
uses world-leading water 
recirculation technology 
that purifies up to 98% of 
the freshwater in which 
the fish are grown.

98%

World-leading technology

Huon’s Whale Point Salmon Nursery’s world-leading water recirculation technology enables  
98% of the freshwater to be reused and repeatedly treated over and over again with only 2% going 
to waste treatment. Not only does the recirculation technology allow Huon to provide the  
best growing conditions for the fish, but it also reduces new water usage to a minimum, allows for 
zero discharge to the local environment and reuse of any waste generated through the process. 

14

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 1 
2 
3 

Left: The Whale Point Salmon Nursery’s first fish.
 The biggest nursery-grown salmon in the southern hemisphere.
 David Mitchell, Freshwater General Manager.

2

3

Nursery cycle

HATCHERY

NURSERY (SMOLT)

LATE (LARGE) SMOLT TO SEA 

9-10 MONTHS AT SEA

Traditional cycle

HARVEST WEIGHT

Lifecycle of 
salmon reduced 
4-5 months

HATCHERY

SMOLT TO SEA

‘GROW-OUT’ AT SEA

14 MONTHS AT SEA

Setting new benchmarks

By growing our salmon larger on land, we improve the efficiency of our overall production cycle by 
reducing the time our salmon spend at sea from 14 months, to 9-10 months. This allows Huon to better 
manage existing leases and reduce the impact on the environment. Importantly the reduced time at 
sea reduces Huon’s agricultural and environmental risks. Huon is setting a new benchmark for salmon 
farming in Tasmania.

15

Operating in unique environments:
High-energy offshore sites in Storm Bay

16

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 1%

Huon has some of the lowest stocking densities in the world at a maximum of 8-12kg per m3.  
To give this context, our pens currently contain approximately 99% water and 1% fish.

Giving our fish room to move

By giving our salmon plenty of room to move they are able to behave naturally. Salmon have 
complex social structures and by keeping a population of fish together throughout their life, we 
allow them to build and maintain cohesive communities. Low stocking densities means oxygen in the 
seabed can break down nutrients more quickly and can easily deal with organic enrichment from 
our farm operations. When salmon are relaxed and allowed to behave normally in a clean, healthy 
environment, they feed better, they grow quicker and when it comes time to harvest our fish, the 
benefit is seen in the quality of our products.

17

Operating in unique environments:
Using innovative technology

Huon’s  
Fortress Pens

Automated 
feeding 
technology

The Huon Hogan 
Feed Barge

Ronja Huon 
Well-Boat

Huon technology

In March 2019 a new unmanned and fully automated 600 tonne feed barge (the Huon Hogan) was 
moored at Storm Bay (a second is currently under construction). It is supplied by the Huon Supply, a new 
1,000 tonne feed delivery boat. Feeding is monitored from Huon’s central feed control-room in Hobart. 
This combination significantly reduces the number of trips required to fill the feed barges plus automated 
feeding software ensures fish are fed 24/7, 365 days a year, in all weather conditions. 

18

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019  
 
 
 
19

Growing through innovation

e eding

F

B a thing

et M a nage

m

e

n

t

N

red a

P

t o r Co

n

t

r

o

l

Over the past 30 years Huon has remained committed to investing in product 
development, concept testing and trialling innovations in farming technology that 
has put it at the forefront of best practice in salmon farming globally. 

Whale Point Salmon Nursery
Our new Whale Point Salmon Nursery was completed 
in December 2018 with the first intake commencing in 
February 2019. Whale Point is a $43 million investment 
that keeps Huon at the cutting edge of innovation and 
represents the biggest change in product development 
and process for the aquaculture industry since the 
implementation of Huon’s offshore farming. It is a 
1,400 tonne, land based salmon nursery that allows the 
transfer of more mature smolt to sea, delivering significant 
benefits for production volumes, the wellbeing of the fish 
and the environment. 

In its first season of operation the average weight of smolt 
to sea is greater than 400gms, compared to Huon’s 2018 
average smolt weight of around 220gms. The time these 
fish spend at sea will be reduced by between 30-40%, 
from an average of 14 months, to 9-10 months. This 
shorter grow out time allows us to increase capacity from 
our existing leases, while reducing the risk of mortalities 
and disease in our fish and improving the biosecurity and 
environmental performance of our operations. The faster 
grow out times will also help to even out the harvest profile 
across the coming years.

The Whale Point Salmon Nursery allows Huon to 
significantly increase our production capacity, which 
supports the growth potential in our offshore sites at 
Storm Bay. 

Investing in innovation
Our strategic vision is built on a commitment to growth 
and continuous improvement and we have accelerated 
the pace of investment in the business. Over the past two 
years we have built on the success of the controlled growth 
strategy with a further $150 million capital investment in 
new infrastructure and innovations to drive even greater 
efficiency at a lower cost of production. 

–  Automated Feeding. Huon has completed the 

development of proprietary technology, software and 
systems needed for the fully automated feeding of our 
increased production volumes. 100% of our fish are fed 
by the new system that incorporates artificial intelligence 
and machine learning to track consumption of feed 
pellets and optimise feeding patterns. The operators at 
the Central Control Room can also conduct visual net 
checks and monitor the environmental conditions in 
each pen in real time. 

–  Bigger Feed Barges. The increase in the volume of fish 
Huon is farming has driven innovation in our feed barge 
technology. In December of last year we launched the 
first of our next generation 600 tonne feed barges, with 
a second now under construction. These next generation 
feed barges are fully automated and unmanned. Their 
increased volume means we need to make fewer feed 
delivery trips, have increased feed security and no 
missed feed days.

–  Bigger Well-Boat. Huon will also be operating the 

world’s largest well-boat, the Ronja Storm, to transport 
and bathe the increased production capacity.

–  Fortress Pens. Huon developed its ground breaking 

fortress pen technology in 2014, which has allowed us 
to farm high-energy offshore sites to deliver:
 » Better fish health and welfare
 » Reduced environmental impact
 » Reduced predator interactions
 » Improved biosecurity.

The Company now has a significant amount of IP relating 
to salmon farming practices and aquaculture more 
generally. The application of these systems, whether as IP, 
hardware or software will create new revenue opportunities 
for the Company to unlock in coming years.

20

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 1  Huon’s central feed control room. 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 

The Whale Point Salmon Nursery’s first fish. (Photo Patrick Tigges)
The world’s largest well-boat, the Ronja Storm, in Turkey, due in Tasmania December 2019.
The Huon Hogan, the southern hemisphere’s largest most technologically-advanced feed barge.
View over the nursery to the Huon River. (Photo Patrick Tigges)
 Ronja Huon, the Company’s current well-boat.

3

2

4

6

1

5

21

Growing domestic demand

Australians love seafood and our increasing rates 
of fish consumption reflect a growing demand for food 
that tastes good, is good for you, has a high protein 
content and is sustainably produced. 

In Australia the market for Atlantic Salmon has been 
growing rapidly over the past 10 years with virtually all of 
the increased demand for seafood proteins being met by 
aquaculture. Last year around 63,000 tonnes of farmed 
Atlantic Salmon was produced, making salmon the most 
valuable aquaculture species in Australia.

Locally grown Atlantic salmon in is only produced in 
Tasmania due to the required climatic conditions and in 
recent years the industry has become the leading farming 
activity in the State, well ahead of dairy, beef, wool, wine 
and the once iconic apple industry.

In FY2019 Huon produced just under 19,000 tonnes 
and held a domestic market share of approximately 30%. 
Its recent expansion in capacity has however put in place 
a growth profile that should see production rise to over 
35,000 tonnes in the next five years, enabling Huon to 
meet the expected 10% per annum growth in domestic 
demand for fresh salmon and potentially lift its domestic 
market share in a supply constrained environment.

Per capita annual consumption of salmon in Australia has 
risen from 1.06kg in 2006 to 2.10kg (finished goods) in 
2018 but is well behind comparable developed nations, 
particularly the Scandinavian countries (6-8kg per capita). 
It is also well behind consumption of other forms of flesh 
based protein, particularly poultry (44kg), beef (21kg) and 
pork (22kg). In 2017/18 salmon formed only 1.8% of all 
flesh based protein consumed in Australia with significant 
upside potential for the highly desired protein.

Protein consumption 
per person in Australia 
2017/2018

g
k
4
4

g
k
3
.
1
2

g
k
9
.
1
2

f
e
e
B

k
r
o
P

y
r
t
l

u
o
P

g
k
6
.
7
1

d
o
o

f

a
e
S

r
e
h
O

t

g
k
6
.
8

p
e
e
h
S

g
k
1
.
2

n
o
m
a
S

l

Sources:  
•  OECD-FAO Agricultural  
Outlook (Edition 2018) 
•  ABARES Annual Fisheries 

Outlook 2019 

•  IBIS World Seafood  
Consumption 2016

22

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Parramatta Creek processing facility 

1. 
2  Huon Premium Tasmanian Wood Roasted salmon 
3  Huon Salmon Portions, easy prepared meal 
4  Masaki Kayama making fresh salmon ngiri 
5  Huon Premium Tasmanian Wood Roasted Ocean Trout
6  Huon Premium Tasmanian Cold Smoked Ocean Trout 
7  MAP/chilled packaged Huon Salmon Portions, Skin Off

1

4

2

5

7

3

6

23

FY2019 
Channel mix 
(% of total revenue)

 Wholesale 64% (58%)
 Retail 28% (24%) 
 International 2% (7%)
 Export 6% (11%)

Buying salmon
As with many foods produced in Australia there is a 
wholesale and retail market for salmon. Huon has 
historically been a major supplier of fresh salmon to 
the domestic wholesale market including to long held 
supply relationships with wholesalers at iconic Sydney 
Fish Market, companies that supply sushi products 
to retail outlets and distributors that supply salmon 
to restaurants, caterers and seafood markets around 
Australia. In FY2019 two-thirds of all Huon’s salmon 
was sold through this channel and it is expected 
to remain a key market through which Australian 
consumers access Huon salmon in the next few years.

From farm to plate
A growing number of Australians buy their salmon for 
home cooking from supermarkets and small quick service 
retail outlets and the Huon brand is set to assume an 
increasing profile in the retail market in the coming years 
as the major supermarkets seek to capitalise on a growing 
shift towards seafood consumption due to health, protein, 
sustainability and convenience drivers.

In anticipation of this, Huon opened a new processing 
factory in Ingleburn, NSW in April 2019. This new, 
purpose built facility gives Huon significant fresh and 
frozen value added capacity close to major eastern 
seaboard markets. Importantly, it ensures Huon’s market 
leading freshness position is maintained for all sales 
channels, including the important chilled packaged 
seafood category in retail. The facility also has future 
capacity for Huon’s volume growth and is designed with 
multiple species processing in mind.

Huon’s salmon and ocean trout products are all primary 
processed at its Parramatta Creek facility in Tasmania, 
which also houses a state-of-the-art smokehouse for 
smoked, cured and specialty gourmet production. 

The fish are gutted and filleted for delivery into domestic 
or export markets or further portioned and processed for 
sale into the retail channel. The facility in Sydney takes 
delivery of primarily pre-rigor pin bone in fillets within 
40 hours of harvest which are then boned, portioned 
and packaged for immediate delivery into distribution 
centres on the eastern seaboard.

Consumers can find a range of packaged, branded Huon 
salmon products in Australian supermarkets including 
cured, cold and hot smoked salmon and portioned fresh 
salmon in MAP (modified atmosphere packaging), a fast 
growing sector which provides an extended shelf life to 
fresh food products without requiring the addition of 
chemical preservatives or stabilisers. Around a quarter 
of Huon salmon volume was sold through retail channels 
in FY2019 including under Huon’s Salmon to Go, 
Premium and Reserve labels.

Marketing Huon
Huon continued to invest in its Harvested By Night, 
Fresher By Day campaign in key mainland markets 
throughout FY2019 with promising results. Research 
undertaken late in the financial year shows a positive 
increase in unaided Huon brand awareness as well as 
significant increases in freshness as a key brand attribute, 
a primary driver of purchase consideration when 
consumers are considering a seafood purchase.

Premium cues associated with the Huon Salmon brand 
continue to carry a strong pricing position at point of 
purchase, delivering positive year-on-year growth in the 
branded product space. 

With growing production volumes coming on line in the 
coming years Huon will continue to drive domestic per 
capita consumption as it unpacks brand stories that help 
community, buyers and consumers alike better understand 
why Not all salmon is Huon.

24

FY19FY18Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Harvest By Night Campaign Landing

1

1-3  Harvested By Night campaign: online, billboard, shopping centre light box
Recipe layouts promoting products launched in Coles supermarkets
4 

2

3

4

Easy gourmet 

Cool evenings call for comforting meals, like this creamy pasta 
featuring new Huon Premium Wood Roasted Ocean Trout. 

PROMOTION
PROMOTION

CREAMY FETTUCCINE 

WITH SMOKED TROUT 
Serves 4  Prep 10 mins  Cooking 15 mins

375g fettuccine
1 tbs olive oil
1 leek, pale section only, thinly sliced
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 bunch baby broccoli, 
halved diagonally

300g sour cream
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 cup (120g) frozen peas, thawed
150g pkt Huon Premium Wood 

Roasted Ocean Trout
Chopped chives, to serve 

1. Cook pasta in a large 
saucepan of boiling water 
following packet directions 
or until al dente. Drain, 
reserving 2/3 cup (160ml) 
of the cooking liquid. 
2. Meanwhile, heat oil in 
a frying pan over medium 
heat. Add leek and garlic. 
Cook, stirring, for 3 mins or 
until soft. Add baby broccoli. 
Cook, stirring, for 2 mins or 
until baby broccoli is tender. 
3. Stir in sour cream, mustard 
and reserved cooking liquid. 
Season. Bring to the boil. Stir in 
peas and trout. Cook for 1 min or 
until heated through. Add pasta. 
Toss to combine. Sprinkle with chives.

Add Huon Premium 
Wood Roasted Ocean 
Trout to your menu 
and enjoy the rich, 
smoky flavour. The 
hot smoked trout is 
ideal for any time of 
day – enjoy in pastas, 
salads, quiche and 
breakfast frittatas.

#colesmag

27

25

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N ’ S   H

K  F
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MEET THE TEAM 
BEHIND THE TASTE.

HUONSALMON.COM.AU

Risk Management

Agricultural Risk
Huon Aquaculture has been farming sustainably for 
30 years and, as with any farming endeavour, Huon 
is subject to a range of events with outcomes that 
can impact the supply of fish (smolt), fish growth and 
mortality. The most effective strategy to minimise 
exposure to such risk is good animal husbandry which 
requires an ethos of care and innovation throughout the 
lifecycle of the fish. Preventing disease and the effective 
management of outbreaks if they do occur, is integral 
to Huon’s farming methods. Critical to minimising the 
impact of disease is maintaining effective biosecurity. 
The most important salmon disease in the south-east 
region of Tasmania is amoebic gill disease (AGD). It is 
routinely controlled through regular freshwater bathing of 
affected salmon. Mortality is minimal, but the resources 
required for bathing are significant.

Environmental Risk
Many of the factors that give rise to agricultural risk 
are closely tied to the environment in which salmon 
are grown. Environmental risks are constantly present, 
including issues such as extreme weather events, high 
water temperature in summer that can be stressful 
to salmon, the availability of fresh water for AGD 
bathing, algae blooms and predators. The most 
common predators for salmon in Tasmania are seals 
and birds. Occasionally salmon are also at risk from 
contact with other organisms such as moon jellyfish. 
The location of leases and how Huon operates in each 
area are regulated by government and subject to a 
strict compliance reporting regime managed by the 
Tasmanian EPA.

Huon Approach to Mitigating 
Agricultural and Environmental Risks

–  Fortress Pens:  

industry leading, patented pens and nets 
 » prevent predation from seals and birds by restricting 

their access to the pens below and above the 
waterline

–  Multiple site brood stock supply:  

brood stock facilities located at four sites in Tasmania 
at Lonnavale, Springfield, New Norfolk and Bagdad
segregation of holdings of broodstock to reduce 
 »
biosecurity and production risk

 » enable farming in high energy sites offshore as pens 

 » access to industry selective breeding program 

are designed to withstand wild weather, to a standard 
which exceeds a 1 in 50-year storm event

brood stock

–  Prevention of diseases:  

–  Net cleaning equipment:  

designed to clean the double netting of fortress pens 
to prevent the build-up of biofouling
 » maintains high water flow through pens, maintaining 

maximum oxygen levels to fish

 » mitigates risk of tears in the netting leading to fish 

escapes or predator entry

–  Well-Boat:  

designed to Huon specifications to enable bathing of 
fish in fresh water at sea
 »
 » addresses the risk of increased AGD infection 

treats fish affected by AGD minimising fish losses

potentially associated with the risk of further rises in 
water temperatures 

 » on-board cleaning and disinfecting allows multiple 

use of fresh water to conserve it and allows increased 
efficiency of bathing 

–  Nursery:  

designed to grow-out smolt on land to a larger size to 
reduce the time salmon spend at sea
 »

reduces the exposure to a range of risks at sea 
including predation, extreme weather, AGD or algae
controlled environment at a critical time in the 
growth cycle

 »

 » better management of existing leases, lowering 

the environmental and biosecurity risk

–  Industry breeding program:  

participation in the industry selective breeding program 
focused on increasing resistance to AGD while also 
 »
selecting for traits to maximise growth of salmon in 
Tasmanian conditions

26

fish health is underpinned by Huon’s Veterinary Health 
Plan (VHP) which is regularly reviewed and updated
 »

support and resourcing for the Aquatic Animal Health 
and Vaccine Centre of Excellence (AAHVCE) in 
Launceston. This international standard facility, which 
has recently been significantly expanded underpins 
the industry’s capability to innovate in the areas of 
vaccine development and diagnostics

 » Huon fish are currently routinely vaccinated for a 
range of bacterial and viral diseases. Ongoing 
research and development continues to improve on 
existing vaccines and establish additional vaccines to 
protect against more pathogens

 » AGD is controlled by regular bathing in fresh water 
 » antibiotic use is extremely low and only used as a 

last resort under veterinary prescription to maintain 
animal welfare. No antibiotics have been used at sea 
sites since 2016

–  Biosecurity and Year Class separation:  

good biosecurity is critical in preventing and managing 
disease. Huon operates within the guidelines of the 
existing TSGA Biosecurity Program established in 2014 
and is integrally involved in the current joint industry/
government review and implementation of improved 
biosecurity measures
 »

the decision to shift the focus of its operations and 
future growth to new lease areas in Storm Bay 
was reinforced by the benefits it provides in tighter 
management of biosecurity across its operations. 
Huon now operates in three separate biosecurity 
zones – the Huon River and D’Entrecasteaux 
Channel; Storm Bay; Macquarie Harbour

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019  
 » fish introduced to sites with low risk of jellyfish, 

and can be moved between lease sites

 » different Year Classes of fish are held on separate 
lease sites to avoid the transmission of disease 
organisms from the older Year Class to the younger 
Year Class. Huon’s separation of Year Classes by 
lease and zone is illustrated on page 13

–  Stocking density:  

Kilograms per m3 often used as a measure of 
animal welfare
 » Huon operates with one of the lowest stocking 

densities in the world at 8kg/m3, approximately half 
the 15kg/m3 maximum recommended by the RSPCA

Social Risk
The salmon industry is regulated by a number of 
Tasmanian government regulatory authorities. The 
Tasmanian EPA which has responsibility for the 
environmental regulation of both freshwater hatcheries 
and marine farms. The Minister for Primary Industries 
and Water has jurisdiction over industry planning 
and development. The industry however also has a 
responsibility to ensure that its activities are understood 
and supported by society and particularly the community 
in which it operates. This is necessary to facilitate the 
sustainable growth of salmon farming and to maintain 
the reputation of those who operate within it.

 » Huon pens contain 99% water and 1% fish

–  Stakeholder Engagement:  

–  Feed formulations:  

farmed fish are fed pelleted diets specially formulated 
for their nutritional needs
 » Huon’s feed is formulated to maintain fish growth 

during the summer months when water temperatures 
are warmer, mitigating the impact of stress and the 
risk of lost growth 

 » Research trials undertaken on-farm in the company’s 
trial pens and facilities such as the Experimental 
Aquaculture Facility (EAF) at IMAS 

–  Fallowing:  

good farming practices necessitate appropriate 
fallowing which is the complete destocking of lease 
sites between Year Classes or groups of fish. Fallowing 
allows the seabed to recuperate naturally from any 
potential impacts as well as providing a break in the 
cycle of any disease issues
 » Huon follows a strategy of at least one month 
whole-lease fallowing each year for disease 
control and up to 18 months pen-bay fallowing 
every 2-3 years to return the benthos (sea floor) 
to baseline conditions 

 » Huon inspects the sea floor under all pens bays 

monthly using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). 

–  Centralised Control of Operations:  

use of technology enables every aspect of operations 
in the marine environment to be constantly monitored 
 » advanced technology including automated feeders 
and underwater cameras are used to provide feed 
and monitor consumption. Pellet detection software 
reduces the risk of over or underfeeding and limits 
both food wastage and the impact on the seafloor 
 » damage to equipment and nets from storm events 

or predators (seals) can be quickly identified 
using ROV surveys, reducing risk of fish escapes 
or marine debris impacting the environment. 
Also eliminates the need for divers in high risk 
environments
risks to fish health can be promptly addressed

 »

–  Lift up System:  

automated retrieval of fish mortalities
 » early detection and removal reduces the risk of 

potential spread of disease and minimises attraction 
of predators
less use of divers, reducing the OHS risk 

 »

regular opportunities for engagement with the 
community and others connected to, or invested 
in, activities associated with the growth in Huon’s 
operations 
 »
 »
 » maintaining and strengthening relations with 

community group discussions
forums held in rural areas

 »

Government and regulatory bodies
regular communication with shareholders and 
potential investors in Huon

–  Animal welfare:  

demonstrating that farmed salmon are well nourished, 
and healthy, raised in low stress and sustainably 
managed environments is increasingly important to 
society, consumers and investors. 
 »
 »
 »

low stocking densities
regular freshwater bathing to control AGD
vaccination against key bacteria and viruses and 
research into new vaccines

 » netting designed to protect fish from predators
 » RSPCA approved humane production and 

harvest methods

–  Antibiotics:  

increased awareness by consumers of the risks to human 
health associated with the use of antibiotics in feed 
formulations in farming generally
 » Huon only uses antibiotics as a last resort and under 
veterinary supervision, but has not used antibiotics 
at sea since 2016
if antibiotics are used there is always an extended 
withdrawal period to ensures no antibiotics residues 
are contained in harvest fish 

 »

–  Fishmeal and fish oil in feed formulations:  

reducing the dependence on marine fish resources by 
feed manufacturers and seafood farmers is increasingly 
viewed as an ethical issue by society
 » Huon continues to undertake regular trials on 
ingredient substitution to balance fish health 
requirements with its ethical responsibilities

27

Third party, independent certification 
of Huon systems and processes
Huon seeks independent certification of its processes 
as a means of validating that it is compliant with global 
best practice.

–  RSPCA

 »

In 2018, Huon Aquaculture was the first seafood 
producer to join the RSPCA’s Approved Farming 
Scheme after satisfying their rigorous animal 
welfare standards. RSPCA Approved branding offers 
consumers assurance that Huon’s salmon has been 
farmed humanely.

–  ASC

 » ASC certification provides endorsement of 

environmental and social processes, including 
seafood production practices and protection of 
the rights of workers. It is provided on a lease 
by lease basis. 

–  BRC

 » Huon is a BRC AA-rated seafood processor. 

The BRC Global Standards specify requirements 
to be met to enable the production, packaging, 
storage and distribution of safe food and consumer 
products. Originally developed in response to 
the needs of UK members of the British Retail 
Consortium, the Standards have gained usage 
world-wide and are specified by growing numbers 
of retailers and branded manufacturers in the EU, 
North America and further afield.

–  AQIS

 » AQIS (Australian Quarantine and Inspection 

Service) provides inspection and certification for 
a range of agricultural products exported from 
Australia, to ensure compliance with overseas 
countries importation requirements.

–  Global G.A.P

 » Huon was the first salmon producer in Australia 
to achieve the internationally recognised Global 
G.A.P certification.

 » The Global G.A.P Integrated Farm Assurance 

Standard – Aquaculture Version 4 – is a pre-farm 
gate standard that covers the whole production 
process of the certified product from the hatchery 
until the point of harvest and packing.

 » The standard not only audits Huon’s operations 

but also those of companies that supply it, resulting 
in a rigorous and thorough understanding of the 
entire process of farming and growing salmon.

Economic Risks
The key economic risks in salmon farming relate to the 
ability to maintain both supply of its product and also 
consumer confidence in its quality and safety.

–  Supply of feed:  

over 50% of the input costs to salmon production is feed. 
Without access to regular supply of the right type of feed, 
production would be compromised
 » Huon mitigates this risk by maintaining multiple 

sources of feed supply

–  Product acceptance in the market:  

sale of product is dependent on market perceptions 
of its quality and safety 
 » quality assurance systems and testing to ensure 

safe quality product

 » marketing to raise the profile of the Huon Brand 
as a premium product and position it for growth

–  Diversification of channel mix:  

reliance on one channel or a limited client base for 
the sale of product introduces risk
 » Huon sells through the wholesale market, into 

the retail sector both domestic and offshore via 
contracted sales, and through the export channel

OHS Risks
Providing a work place that is safe and ensuring that staff 
return home un-injured each day is a fundamental duty of 
an employer. It is also essential for attracting and retaining 
staff as well as providing an environment which supports 
learning, team work and innovation.

–  Equipment and work processes:  

fortress pens are designed to protect staff from interactions 
with seals and provide a safe working environment
 » extensive use of automation and technology in 

 »

 »

 »

net cleaning and repair; feeding; and removal of fish 
mortalities has reduced or eliminated the need for divers
introduction of unmanned feed barges moored onsite 
and automated feeding reduces the number of vessel 
movements and time employees spend on water, 
particularly at high-energy sites
continuous modification to on water equipment to 
reduce risk of injury 
introduction of automation and robot packers into 
the processing stage of salmon production to minimise 
manual handling

–  Training and professional development:  

development of staff through training increases 
productivity, reduces the risk of injury and accidents and 
also increases the rate of staff retention 
 » at any one point in time, 25% of staff are undergoing 

professional development including VET sector 
training courses in role specific development training 

 » general literacy, numeracy and digital literacy 

support is offered to all employees

 » Huon developed an Associate Degree with the 

University of Tasmania in aquaculture

 » Clear and transparent career development options 
are provided through the Workforce Development 
strategy, designed to retain and attract talent
 » Huon is designing a whole of business Innovation 

Program which will be launched in FY2020 to foster 
the development of innovation as a core skillset

28

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 29

Huon Board of Directors

Neil Kearney B.Ec
–  Chairman
–  Director since August 2014

Peter Bender
–  Managing Director and 
Chief Executive Director
–  Director since May 2005

Frances Bender
–  Non-independent Executive Director
–  Director since May 2005

Founder of Huon with over 30 years’ 
experience in fish farming operations.

Founder of Huon with over 30 years’ 
experience in fish farming operations.

Peter is responsible for the leadership, 
operations and strategic direction of 
Huon and has always been committed 
to delivering high quality salmon that 
is raised responsibly. He sets business 
strategy and leads the executive team 
to deliver growth.

He is well recognised for farming 
innovation both in Australia and 
internationally and his extensive 
knowledge of aquaculture coupled 
with a strong continuous improvement 
ethic is the foundation on which Huon’s 
success is built.

Peter is a Non-executive Director of 
Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania Pty Ltd.

Frances has been instrumental in the 
design of the Huon brand and its 
marketing direction and continues to 
be responsible for these areas.

Frances was a Member of the New 
South Wales Primary Industry Ministerial 
Advisor Council.

Frances’ former directorships and 
committees include Board member of 
Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries 
Institute, member of the Huon Valley 
Economic Development Advisory 
Committee, member of Huon Valley 
Council Rural Health Advisory 
Committee, member of Tasmanian 
Food Industry Council and member 
of Tasmanian Regional Reference 
Group – South.

Neil has significant leadership 
experience in major Australian and 
international food companies with 
prior senior roles at Goodman Fielder 
Limited and National Foods Limited. 
He is currently a Non-executive director 
of Brainwave Australia, a charity, 
Non-executive Chairman of Felton 
Grimwade Bosisto’s Pty Ltd, Non-
executive director of Craig Mostyn 
Holdings Pty Ltd and a Non-executive 
director of Simonds Group Limited.

Neil’s most recent executive role was 
Chief Strategy Officer of ASX-listed 
company Goodman Fielder Limited 
from 2011–2014 and before that 
he was Chief Executive Officer and 
Managing Director of Warrnambool 
Cheese & Butter Factory Co. Holdings 
Limited from 2007–2009.

Neil has previously been a Board 
member for Warrnambool Cheese & 
Butter Factory Co. Holdings Limited 
and Colorpak Limited as well as being 
a Director of National Foods Holdings 
Ltd 2005–2007 and Vitasoy Australia 
Products Pty Ltd 1999–2007.

Special Responsibilities
–  Independent Non-executive 

Director 

–  Member of the Audit and Risk 

Management Committee

–  Member of the Remuneration and 

Nomination Committee

30

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Simon Lester  
CA, BCom, MAppFinInv
–  Independent Non-executive Director
–  Director since August 2014

Tony Dynon  
CPA
–  Independent Non-executive Director
–  Director since August 2016

Simon had previously been an 
adviser to Huon and has extensive 
experience within the salmon 
industry.

He has 30 years’ experience in 
corporate finance and corporate 
tax, having advised the Tasmanian 
Government and State owned 
business enterprises.

His former roles include Partner at 
Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu and PBS 
Partners as well as senior management 
roles at Price Waterhouse and KPMG 
and previously held the position of 
Board member of CatholicCare 
Tasmania.

Simon is currently the Chief Risk 
Officer and acting Chief Financial 
Officer of The Royal Automobile Club 
of Tasmania. 

He is a member of the Financial 
Services Institute of Australasia, Institute 
of Chartered Accountants in Australia, 
the Tax Institute and the Australian Risk 
Policy Institute.

Special Responsibilities
–  Chairman of the Remuneration 
and Nomination Committee 
–  Member of the Audit and Risk 

Management Committee

Tony has extensive leadership and 
finance experience gained largely 
in food, beverage and stockfeed 
businesses with senior roles in 
international and ASX-listed companies. 

The majority of Tony’s career was 
with international food company 
H J Heinz, covering a 20 year period, 
including roles for Heinz Australia as 
Joint Managing director from 1994 to 
1997 and Chief Financial Officer from 
1988 to 1994. He was also Managing 
Director of Farm Pride Foods Ltd and 
Executive Chairman of Palm Springs 
Ltd, both ASX listed companies. 

More recently Tony has had leadership 
roles in privately owned stockfeed 
businesses based in Australia, 
New Zealand and the UK. Tony was 
also a non-executive director for 
Colorpak Ltd from 2004 to 2010. He 
is currently a Non-executive director of 
Murray River Organics Limited.

Tony is a member of CPA Australia.

Special Responsibilities
–  Chairman of the Audit and Risk 

Management Committee 

–  Member of the Remuneration and 

Nomination Committee

31

32

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report

The Directors of Huon present the annual financial report 
of the consolidated entity consisting of the Company and 
the entities it controlled (Consolidated Group) for the 
financial year ended 30 June 2019. 

Directors
The Directors of the Company during the whole of  
the financial year and up to the date of this report  
are as follows:

–  Neil Kearney, Chairman 
–  Peter Bender, Managing Director and  

Chief Executive Officer

–  Frances Bender
–  Simon Lester
–  Tony Dynon

The qualification, experiences and special  
responsibilities of the Directors are provided  
on pages 30 to 31.

Directors’ Interests
Particulars of Directors’ interests as at 30 June 2019 were:

Shareholdings

Peter Bender(i)
Frances Bender(i)
Neil Kearney
Simon Lester
Tony Dynon

Ordinary 
Shares

Performance
Rights

57,776,019
57,776,019
6,316
14,516
6,080

302,026
–
–
–
–

(i) 

Includes direct and indirect interests.

Company Secretary
Thomas Haselgrove B.Ec. CA 

Thomas Haselgrove is the Chief Financial Officer and 
Company Secretary with 27 years’ experience in audit, 
statutory accounting and commerce across a number of 
organisations in the food, beverage and FMCG sectors 
including Southcorp Wines, Chiquita Brands and Ernst 
& Young. Thomas was appointed Company Secretary 
in 2006.

Principal Activities
During the year the principal activities of the Consolidated 
Group were hatching, farming, processing, sales and 
marketing of Atlantic salmon and ocean trout.

There were no significant changes in the nature of the 
activities of the Consolidated Group during the year.

Dividends
Dividends paid to members during the financial year 
were as follows:

Final ordinary dividend for the year ended  
30 June 2018 of 5.0 cents (2017 – 5.0 cents)  
per ordinary share paid on 11 October 2018
Interim ordinary dividend for the year ended 
30 June 2019 of 3.0 cents (2018 – 5.0 cents) 
per ordinary share paid on 11 April 2019

$’000

4,367

2,620

On 29 August 2019, the Directors recommended the 
payment of a final ordinary dividend of $2.6 million 
(3.0 cents per ordinary share) to be paid on 17 October 
2019 out of retained earnings at 30 June 2019. The 
dividend will be 50% franked.

Review of Operations
Information on the operations and financial position of 
the Consolidated Group, and the Business Strategy and 
outlook are set out in the Chairman’s Message on pages  
2 to 3 and the Managing Director’s Review on pages  
4 to 8 of this Annual Report.

Changes in State of Affairs
There have been no significant changes in the  
state of affairs of the Consolidated Group during  
the financial year.

Matters Subsequent to the end of the 
Financial Year
On 29 August 2019, the Directors of the Company 
recommended the payment of a final ordinary dividend 
(refer Dividends above). The dividend has not been 
provided for in the 30 June 2019 financial statements.

No other matter or circumstance has arisen since 30 June 
2019 that has significantly affected the group’s operations, 
results or state of affairs, or may do so in future years.

33

Future Developments
Likely developments for the Consolidated Group are 
addressed through the Company’s Business Strategy. Further 
information on these developments are included in the 
Chairman’s Message and the Managing Director’s Review.

Directors’ and Directors’ Meetings
The following table sets out the number of Directors’ 
meetings (including meetings of Committees of Directors) 
held during the financial year and the number of meetings 
attended by each Director (while they were a Director or 
Committee Member).  

Board of Directors 
meetings

Audit and Risk 
Management Committee 
meetings

Remuneration and 
Nominations Committee 
meetings

Number 
Held

Number 
Attended

Number 
Held

Number 
Attended

Number 
Held

Number 
Attended

8
8
8
8
8

8
8
8
8
8

4
*
*
4
4

4
*
*
4
4

3
*
*
3
3

3
*
*
3
3

Director

Neil Kearney
Peter Bender
Frances Bender
Simon Lester
Tony Dynon

* Not a member of the Committee

Further details regarding the Consolidated Group’s 
sustainability and environmental management credentials 
and policies are outlined in the Chairman’s Message and 
Managing Director’s Review. 

During the year the Company was issued with a 
complaint summons alleging a number of breaches of the 
requirements relating to the operation of an Environmental 
Protection Notice at the Port Huon net processing site 
during 2018. During the year the Company was issued 
with a complaint summons alleging a diesel spill at one of 
the Company’s marine lease sites during 2017.

The Company is investigating these alleged breaches 
and the matters are not expected to impact the financial 
performance of the Company.

The Directors are not aware of any other significant 
environmental incidents arising from the operations of the 
Consolidated Group during the financial year and believe 
that all regulations have otherwise been materially met 
during the period covered by the Annual Report.

Share Options and Performance Rights
During or since the end of the financial year, 209,467 
performance rights were granted to Directors and Key 
Management Personnel. Refer to the remuneration report 
for further details of the performance rights granted and 
outstanding.

Environmental Regulation

The Consolidated Group is subject to significant regulation 
at both State and Commonwealth levels in respect of its 
hatchery operations, marine operations, land and use 
tenure and environmental requirements. This includes 
specific environmental permits, licences and statutory 
authorisations, trade and export and workplace health  
and safety.

The Consolidated Group has well established 
management frameworks for routinely and regularly 
monitoring compliance with the relevant regulatory 
requirements and to monitor and manage environmental 
compliance in relation to new regulations as they come 
into effect. Compliance within the regulatory framework  
is routinely reported to the Board.

The Consolidated Group employs a cross-functional team 
to manage compliance within the regulatory framework 
and guide a strategy of continuous improvement in 
environmental management and sustainability. 

34

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report continuedRemuneration Report

Introduction
This Remuneration Report for the financial year ended  
30 June 2019 outlines the Company’s remuneration 
structure in accordance with the requirements of 
the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the Act), and the 
Corporations Regulations 2001 (Cth). This report provides 
remuneration information in relation to the Company’s  
Key Management Personnel (KMP) including for the  
Non-executive Directors (NEDs), Executive Directors (EDs), 
and Executive Management Group (EMG). KMP are those 
persons having authority and responsibility for planning, 
directing and controlling the activities of the Company, 
directly or indirectly, including any director (whether 
executive or otherwise) of the Company. This Remuneration 
Report has been audited as required by section 308(3C) 
of the Act.

Key Management Personnel (KMP)
The table below outlines the KMP for the financial year 
ended 30 June 2019 unless otherwise indicated. 

Executive Directors
 – Peter Bender (Managing Director and  

Chief Executive Officer)

–  Frances Bender (Executive Director)

Non-executive Directors
 – Neil Kearney (Chairman and Non-executive Director)
 – Simon Lester (Non-executive Director)
–  Tony Dynon (Non-executive Director)

Executive Management Group
 – Philip Wiese (Deputy Chief Executive Officer)
–  Thomas Haselgrove (Chief Financial Officer  

and Company Secretary)

–  David Morehead (General Manager Marine 

Operations)

–  Charles Hughes (General Manager Commercial 

and Planning)

–  David Mitchell (General Manager Freshwater 

Operations)

Remuneration Governance
Huon’s remuneration framework, policies and practices 
are designed to create value for shareholders by ensuring 
the Company attracts, rewards and retains employees 
responsibly and fairly, with a focus on business outcomes, 
individual performance, the organisation’s risk management 
framework, and applicable regulations. Remuneration Policy 
is reviewed annually. Further information on the Company’s 
Remuneration Policy can be viewed on the Company website.

Remuneration and Nomination Committee (RNC)
The Remuneration and Nomination Committee (RNC) 
comprises of three independent NEDs (including the 
Chairman). As at 30 June 2019 the RNC comprised Simon 
Lester (Chairman), Neil Kearney and Tony Dynon.

The RNC has the responsibility for delivering 
remuneration recommendations to the Board to ensure 
that the Company is adopting appropriate and coherent 
remuneration policies that will attract, motivate and retain 
qualified and experienced KMP of the highest calibre.

The Board reviews and, where appropriate, approves the 
remuneration arrangements of the KMP after considering 
the recommendations of the RNC (including awards 
made under the short term incentive (STI) plans and 
long term incentive (LTI) plans). The Board also sets the 
combined remuneration pool for NEDs which is subject 
to shareholder approval. The RNC approves the level of 
the Consolidated Group’s STI plan pool, having regard 
to recommendations made by the CEO. The RNC meets 
throughout the year and the CEO and/or DCEO attends 
these meetings (by invitation only) when management input 
is required. The CEO is not present during discussions 
relating to his own remuneration. 

The RNC reviews the performance of KMP and reviews the 
assessment processes to ensure alignment of assessments 
towards the execution of the Company’s strategy. The 
RNC’s Charter can be viewed on the Company website.

Use Remuneration Consultants
From time to time the Board directly engage external 
advisers to provide input into the Company’s remuneration 
policies and into the process of reviewing KMP remuneration 
arrangements. In June 2019, the RNC engaged Godfrey 
Remuneration Group to review its existing remuneration 
policies and to provide recommendations on executive 
STI and LTI plan designs. The RNC is expecting to present 
findings from the review in September 2019. 

Securities Trading Policy
A Securities Trading Policy is in place to ensure that 
employees understand their obligation in relation to 
dealing in Huon shares. Huon Directors and all employees 
must comply with the insider trading prohibitions of the 
Corporations Act 2001. The policy imposes share trading 
blackouts on Directors and Restricted Employees prior 
to financial results announcements and other times as 
required. In addition, Directors and Restricted Employees 
with potential access to inside information are required to 
seek approval before dealing in Huon shares. The policy 
also restricts employees from entering into transactions 
which limit their economic risks, including in relation to 
the long term incentive (LTI) plans. The Securities Trading 
Policy can be viewed on the Company website.

35

KMP Remuneration Arrangements – Executive Directors and Executive Management Group
The  following  information  relates  to  the  remuneration  arrangements  for  the  Executive  Directors  and  Executive  Management 
Group KMP. The NEDs remuneration structure is a separate and distinct framework in accordance with best practice corporate 
governance and is detailed in a separate section of this Remuneration Report.  

Remuneration Principles and Strategy 
Huon’s Remuneration Strategy is designed to attract, motivate and retain qualified and experienced KMP and align the interests 
of KMP with Huon’s shareholders. Huon’s objective is to build long-term shareholder value by continuing to be a recognised 
leader in the aquaculture industry though sustained growth and continuous improvement as a Tasmanian producer of world class 
salmon. Huon sees the retention of KMP as crucial to achieving this objective. 

Remuneration  consists  of  Fixed  Remuneration  and  performance  based  remuneration.  Payments  and  awards  of  performance 
based remuneration under the STI Cash bonus plan and, in certain circumstances, under the LTI Performance Rights plan, are 
subject to Board discretion as well as being subject to performance targets being met.

In the event of serious misconduct or a material misstatement in the Company’s financial statements the Remuneration Committee 
can  cancel  or  defer  performance-based  remuneration  and  may  also  claw  back  performance-based  remuneration  paid  in 
previous financial years.

Components of Remuneration
In the financial year ended 30 June 2019, the KMP remuneration structure comprised of market competitive fixed and variable 
remuneration including STI and LTI plans as detailed in the following table:

Component

Performance Measures

Fixed remuneration 
includes base salary, 
superannuation 
contributions, long service 
and annual leave and 
other benefits
STI Cash bonus

LTI Performance Rights

Multiple sources of data used to 
determine annual changes in fixed 
remuneration including competitive 
market data and each individuals 
performance and contribution 
during the year
 – Operating earnings (earnings 
excluding adjustments for 
biological assets) before 
interest, tax, depreciation and 
amortisation (50%)

 – Cash flow from operations (30%)
 – Lost time injury frequency rate 

(20%)

 – Operating earnings (earnings 
excluding adjustments for 
biological assets) per share 
growth (50%)

 – Return on assets (50%)

Weighting as  
% of TFR

N/A

Link to Performance

Consolidated Group performance 
as well as individual performance 
are considered during the annual 
remuneration review of fixed 
remuneration

 – DCEO  

Target = 40%

 – EMG 

Target = 30%

To provide short term incentive 
for KMP to remain in the 
Company and to recognise and 
reward contribution to short-term 
Company outcomes

 – MD/CEO 

Target = 100%

 – DCEO 

Target = 40%

 – EMG  

Target = 30%

The LTI plan provides a reward 
to KMP for their contribution to 
the achievement of forecasted 
objectives and long term 
shareholder value. The LTI 
plan also rewards KMP for 
their continued service with the 
Company and seeks to retain KMP 
in the long-term

36

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report Remuneration Report continued Remuneration Overview 
Huon aims to attract, motivate and retain qualified and experienced KMP by aligning KMP interests with those of shareholders 
and  by  providing  reward  through  market  competitive  fixed  and  variable  remuneration.  The  proportion  of  fixed  and  variable 
remuneration is established for KMP by Board approval following recommendations from the RNC. 

The following summarises the target remuneration mix of KMP for the financial year ended 30 June 2018 and 2019: 

Chief Executive Officer
Executive Director
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Executive Management Group

Fixed

50%
100%
56%
62%

Target STI

Target LTI

Total %

–
–
22%
19%

50%
–
22%
19%

100%
100%
100%
100%

The percentages in this table are based on a split of fixed remuneration and incentives for achieving STI and LTI plan targets as 
determined by the Board.  

Fixed Remuneration
Total Fixed Remuneration (TFR) includes base salary, superannuation contributions, long service and annual leave and other 
benefits (such as termination benefits).

Remuneration levels are reviewed annually to ensure KMP are offered market competitive fixed remuneration that reflects the 
responsibility, qualifications and experience required of the KMP. 

There are a range of fringe benefits which KMP can incorporate into the total cost of their remuneration package. These fringe 
benefits may include, but are not limited to, motor vehicles and car parking. Whatever the cash component and fringe benefit 
value,  the  total  employment  cost  of  any  KMP  remuneration  package  is  taken  into  account  when  determining  fixed  annual 
remuneration for KMP.

Details of 2018 and 2019 fixed remuneration levels are provided below:

KMP

Peter Bender
Frances Bender
Philip Wiese
Thomas Haselgrove
David Morehead 
Charles Hughes 
David Mitchell 

Fixed remuneration

2019
$

667,873
215,302
547,173
310,894
331,113
288,857
295,816

2018
$

551,923
191,594
428,802
317,814
302,567
283,024
267,747

37

Variable Remuneration – STI Plan

KMP except for the CEO, Executive Director and Non-Executive Directors are eligible to participate in Huon’s STI plan. Huon’s 
annual STI plan is designed to recognise the contribution and achievement of financial and operational targets as determined 
by the Board and CEO. 

The target annual STI that may be awarded to KMP is expressed as a percentage of their respective TFR.

Key Features of STI Plan

Who participates?
How is STI plan 
delivered?

What is the STI plan 
opportunity?

What are the 
performance conditions 
for FY2019?

Why the financial 
measures were chosen?

How is performance 
assessed?

What happens if KMP 
leave?

KMP (Except for the CEO, Executive Director and Non-Executive Directors).
Payment of cash incentive.

Payment will be made subject to Board discretion and subject to performance targets being met.
An opportunity for KMP (except CEO, Executive Director and Non-Executive Directors) 
to earn an annual incentive payment calculated as a percentage of their annual fixed 
remuneration conditional on the achievement of financial and non-financial measures. 
Target STI maximum opportunity of 40% of fixed remuneration for the DCEO and maximum 
opportunity of 30% of fixed remuneration for the EMG.
Actual STI plan payments awarded to each member of KMP depend on the extent to which 
specific targets set at the beginning of the financial year are met. The CEO, Executive Director 
and Non-Executive Directors do not participate in the STI Plan. The target consists of key 
performance indicators (KPIs) including financial objectives. For FY2019 the performance 
measures under the STI plan were as follows:
 – Operating earnings (earnings excluding adjustment for biological assets) before interest, 

tax, depreciation and amortisation

 – Cashflow from operations
 – Lost time injury frequency rate.
The financial and operational measures were chosen as they represent the key drivers for 
the short term success of Huon’s business and provide a framework for delivery of long term 
value to shareholders from Huon’s strategy.
The RNC considers the performance against financial and operational targets at the end 
of the financial year (with the financial target calculations based on audited accounts) and 
makes recommendations to the Board for the amount, if any, to be paid to the KMP.
Where cessation of employment occurs, the Board may determine the treatment of any award 
that has been granted to KMP in accordance with Plan Rules which may include forfeiture. 

The Board has discretion to award an STI plan amount on a pro-rata basis taking into 
account time and current level of performance of the KMP against the performance hurdles.

The following table represents the target annual STI opportunity as a percentage of TFR for KMP in 2018 and 2019.

STI value 
as % of 
TFR 2019

STI value 
as % of 
TFR 2018

40%
30%
30%
30%
30%

40%
30%
30%
30%
30%

KMP

Philip Wiese
Thomas Haselgrove
David Morehead 
Charles Hughes 
David Mitchell 

38

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report Remuneration Report continued Variable Remuneration – LTI Plan 

Huon’s  LTI  plan  applies  to  KMP  (except  for  the  Executive  Director  and  Non-Executive  Directors)  and  is  designed  to  align 
remuneration with long term shareholder value and assist in the motivation, retention and reward of KMP. The RNC reviews all 
LTI plan offers made to KMP. Shareholder approval is obtained before any LTI plan grants are made to the CEO in accordance 
with ASX Listing Rules.

Key Features of the LTI Plan

Who participates?
How is the LTI plan 
delivered?
What are the 
performance hurdles 
under the FY2019 LTI 
performance rights 
grant?

When do the FY2019 LTI 
plan performance rights 
vest?

How are grants treated 
on termination?

How are grants treated 
if a change of control 
occurs?

Do participants receive 
distributions or dividends 
on unvested LTI grants?

KMP (except for the Executive Director and Non-Executive Directors).
Granting of performance rights to KMP. These rights provide the KMP with the ability to 
convert the rights to ordinary shares of the Group upon meeting the performance conditions.
Performance rights issued under the FY2019 LTI Plan are subject to two separate 
performance measures:  

 – 50% of the performance rights will be subject to a vesting condition based on earnings  
per share compound annual growth rate (EPS CAGR) over the performance period; and
–  50% of the performance rights will be subject to a vesting condition based on return on 

assets (ROA) over the performance period.

Both performance hurdles have threshold levels which need to be achieved before vesting 
commences. Details of these hurdles and thresholds are outlined in the following section.
The performance period for the 2019 LTI plan is the period from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 
2021. The performance rights granted will vest subject to the performance hurdles associated 
with the grant and to the extent that certain performance based conditions are achieved in 
the relevant performance period. 

Performance rights that have vested may be exercised until the applicable expiry date. If any 
shares are issued following exercise of a vested performance right prior to the applicable 
expiry date then they may not be sold or transferred before 1 July 2021.
Where cessation of a KMP’s employment occurs, any unvested LTI plan performance rights 
(or vested and unexercised performance rights) are forfeited, unless deemed otherwise by  
the Board.

For any other reason, the Board may at its discretion retain a pro-rated (based on time) 
portion of awards on-foot and subject to original performance hurdles.
In the event of a change of control, the performance rights may vest at the Board’s discretion. 
In determining whether to exercise its discretion, the Board will have regard to all relevant 
circumstances, including the level of satisfaction of the performance conditions over the 
performance period from the grant date to the date of the relevant change in control event.

If a company obtains control of the Company as a result of a takeover bid or another 
corporate action, the company acquiring control (Acquiring Company) and the KMPs may 
agree together that on the vesting of performance rights, the KMP receive shares in the 
Acquiring Company in lieu of shares in the Company, on substantially the same terms as 
before.
Participants do not receive distribution or dividends on unvested LTI plan grants.

The following table represents the annual LTI allocation as a percentage of TFR for KMP in 2018 and 2019:

KMP

Peter Bender
Philip Wiese
Thomas Haselgrove
David Morehead
Charles Hughes 
David Mitchell

LTI value 
as % of 
2019

LTI value 
as % of 
TFR 2018

100%
40%
30%
30%
30%
30%

100%
40%
30%
30%
30%
30%

39

2019 LTI Plan Hurdles explained
Performance  rights  issued  under  the  2019  LTI  Plan  are  subject  to  two  separate  performance  measures:  50  percent  of  the 
performance rights will be subject to an EPS CAGR vesting condition; and 50 percent will be subject to a ROA vesting condition. 
These performance hurdles were chosen by the Board as they believe both EPS CAGR and ROA are transparent, well understood 
and appropriate mechanisms to measure performance and provide a strong link between KMP reward and shareholder wealth 
creation. Both hurdles are explained in more detail below:

EPS compound annual growth rate (‘CAGR’)

Vesting outcome

Less than 7.5% CAGR
7.5% CAGR
Above 7.5% CAGR but below 10% CAGR
10% CAGR or greater

Nil
50%
Pro-rata from 50-99%
100%

Earnings per share compound annual growth is calculated as the net profit after income tax (NPAT) (excluding adjustment for 
biological assets) divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares on issue. Compared to an absolute profit measure, 
EPS takes into account changes in the equity base and for this reason it is preferred to other profit based metrics. 

ROA (return for the reporting period)

Less than 10% return
10% return
Above 10% return but below 15% return
15% return or greater

Vesting outcome

Nil
50%
Pro-rata from 50-99%
100%

Return on assets (ROA) is calculated as statutory earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) (excluding adjustment for biological 
assets), divided by total assets excluding cash and fair value adjustment on biological assets (average of opening and closing 
balance). ROA is an appropriate measure for asset intensive industries which reinforces the need to invest capital on projects 
with a superior return.  

KMP Remuneration Outcomes (Including Link to Performance)

Huon’s Financial and Operational Performance 

Performance measure

Unit

2019

2018

2017

Operating earnings before interest, tax, 
depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA)
Cash flow from operations (CF)
Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR)(i)
Earnings per share (EPS) (Operating)(ii) 
Return on Assets (ROA) (Operating)(iii)
Dividend
Dividend payout ratio (Operating)
Share price (30 June)

$m
$m
hours/million
Cents
%
$m
%
$

47.3
14.5
4
18.13
4.1%
5.2
33.1%
4.50

71.8
57.9
4
40.53
10.4%
8.7
24.7%
4.46

62.8
54.0
3
32.90
10.2%
4.4
15.2%
4.93

2016

26.4
16.3
7
5.13
2.4%
–
–
3.50

(i)   

(ii) 

 Long term injury frequency rate is the number of lost time injuries within a given year relative to the total number of hours worked in the same period 
multiplied by 1 million).

 Earnings per share compound annual growth is calculated as the net profit after income tax (NPAT) (excluding adjustment for biological assets) divided 
by the weighted average number of ordinary shares on issue.

(iii)   Return on assets (ROA) is calculated as statutory earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) (excluding adjustment for biological assets), divided by total 

assets excluding cash and fair value adjustment on biological assets (average of opening and closing balance).

40

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report Remuneration Report continued Consolidated Group performance and its link to STI
Performance against STI plan targets
The following table shows the Company’s 2019 STI performance scorecard measures, weightings and outcomes as applied to 
the KMP. 

Performance Measures

Description

Weighting

Outcome

Comment

Operating earnings 
before interest, tax, 
depreciation and 
amortisation  
(Operating EBITDA)
Cash flow from 
operation (CF)

Statutory EBITDA excluding  
adjustment for biological 
assets. 

Statutory cashflow from  
operations.

Lost time injury  
frequency rate (LTIFR)

Lost time injury frequency rates 
are the number of lost time 
injuries within a given year 
relative to the total number  
of hours worked in the same 
period multiplied by 1 million.

50%

30%

20%

Target not 
achieved

Target not 
achieved

Target not 
achieved

Operating EBITDA is seen as a 
good guide of the current trading 
performance of the Company as it is 
the profitability adjusted for finance 
cost and reinvestment in assets
Cashflow from operations is an 
important driver of flexibility for the 
Company to continue to develop its 
farming systems and to capitalise on 
opportunities in the market.
Staff are a key asset to Huon and 
as such their safety is paramount. A 
reduction in LTIFR is a key part of the 
safety program.

STI Outcomes for KMP for 2019
The following table provides a summary of STI outcomes and payments for the 2019 performance year. 

KMP

Philip Wiese
Thomas Haselgrove
David Morehead
Charles Hughes
David Mitchell

STI target
$

177,096
82,921
82,926
76,152
76,152

Target 
STI as %
of TFR

Total STI
Foregone
$

40%
30%
30%
30%
30%

0
0
0
0
0

Total STI
forfeited
$

177,096
82,921
82,926
76,152
76,152

Total STI
achieved
as % of 
STI target

0%
0%
0%
0%
0%

Consolidated Group performance and its link to LTI
Performance Against LTI Plan Targets
The following table shows the performance periods and outcomes for the 2016 LTI Plan which covers the performance period  
1  July  2016  to  30  June  2019  and  is  assessed  in  FY2019.  The  total  vesting  outcome  for  the  three  year  period  is  72.1%  of 
performance rights issued. Any performance rights under the 2016 LTI Plan that do not vest as result of the vesting outcomes 
will lapse.

The 2017 and 2018 LTI Plans will be assessed against their performance periods and outcomes at the completion of FY2020 
and FY2021 respectively:

LTI Plan

Performance Period/Outcome

2016

Measure
Outcome 
1 July 2016 – 30 June 2018
Outcome 
1 July 2016 – 30 June 2019

Measure

EPS (cents)
EPS (CAGR)
ROA (%)
EPS
ROA
EPS
ROA

FY2017

32.90c
13.3%
10.2%
N/A
52%
N/A
52%

FY2018

40.53c
181.1%
10.4%
100%
54%
N/A
54%

FY2019

Vesting %

18.13c
52.3%
4.1%
–
–
100%
0%

100%
53%
100%
35%

41

LTI transactions for KMP for 2019
The following table details the Performance Rights made to KMP during FY2019. 

KMP – Performance rights granted

Peter Bender
Philip Wiese
Thomas Haselgrove
David Morehead
Charles Hughes
David Mitchell

(i)    Fair value has been rounded to 2 decimal places

Grant date

31 Oct 2018
31 Oct 2018
31 Oct 2018
31 Oct 2018
31 Oct 2018
31 Oct 2018

Units 
granted

108,595
32,819
17,737
17,738
16,289
16,289

Fair value(i) 

$

4.26
4.26
4.26
4.26
4.26
4.26

KMP – Performance rights held
The following table details the Performance Rights held and the movement during FY2019.

Held 
at Start 
of Year

62,496
118,591
96,575
–

18,917
35,841
29,186
–

10,222
19,370
15,773
–

10,222
19,371
15,774
–

9,388
17,788
14,486
–

9,388
17,788
14,486
–

 Granted
During
Year

–
–
–
108,595

–
–
–
32,819

–
–
–
17,737

–
–
–
17,738

–
–
–
16,289

–
–
–
16,289

Other

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

Forfeited

Vested

–
(21,735)
–
–

–
(6,568)
–
–

–
(3,550)
–
–

–
(3,550)
–
–

–
(3,260)
–
–

–
(3,260)
–
–

(62,496)
–
–
–

(18,917)
–
–
–

(10,222)
–
–
–

(10,222)
–
–
–

(9,388)
–
–
–

(9,388)
–
–
–

Name 
Grant Date
Peter Bender
 – 25 November 2015
 – 30 November 2016
 – 30 November 2017
 – 31 October 2018
Philip Wiese
 – 25 November 2015
 – 30 November 2016
 – 30 November 2017
 – 31 October 2018
Thomas Haselgrove
 – 25 November 2015
 – 30 November 2016
 – 30 November 2017
 – 31 October 2018
David Morehead
 – 25 November 2015
 – 30 November 2016
 – 30 November 2017
 – 31 October 2018
Charles Hughes
 – 25 November 2015
 – 30 November 2016
 – 30 November 2017
 – 31 October 2018
David Mitchell
 – 25 November 2015
 – 30 November 2016
 – 30 November 2017
 – 31 October 2018

42

Total 
fair value
 of grant 
2019
$

462,918
139,901
75,609
75,613
69,437
69,437

Unvested 
at End 
of Year

–
96,856
96,575
108,595

–
29,273
29,186
32,819

–
15,820
15,773
17,737

–
15,821
15,774
17,738

–
14,528
14,486
16,289

–
14,528
14,486
16,289

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report Remuneration Report continued  
KMP Contracts 
Remuneration arrangements for KMP (excluding NEDs) are formalised in employment agreements. The following section of this 
Remuneration Report outlines key contractual details for Executives and KMP.

Contractual arrangements
The following table shows the key contractual arrangements for KMP: 

KMP Member

Peter Bender
Frances Bender
Philip Wiese
Thomas Haselgrove
David Morehead
Charles Hughes
David Mitchell

Contract Type

Ongoing contract
Ongoing contract
Ongoing contract
Ongoing contract
Ongoing contract
Ongoing contract
Ongoing contract

Fixed Remuneration(i)
$

Access 
to STI

Access 
to LTI

507,695
164,966
442,740
276,404
276,421
253,839
253,839

No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes

Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes

(i)  Superannuation is paid in addition to fixed remuneration

Managing Director (MD) and CEO
The MD and CEO (the CEO) is employed under an ongoing contract which can be terminated with notice by either the Company 
or the CEO. Termination provisions are as follows:

Resignation
Termination for cause

Notice Period 
and/or 
Notice in Lieu

12 months
None

Restraint 
Period

3 months
3 months

Termination in cases of death, disablement, 
redundancy or notice without cause

12 months

3 months

Treatment 
of STI

Treatment 
of LTI

Nil
Nil

Nil

Unvested awards forfeited
Vested and unexercised 
awards forfeited
Pro-rated for time and remain 
on-foot subject to original 
performance hurdles

43

Executive Director (ED)
The Executive Director (ED) is employed under an ongoing contract which can be terminated with notice by either the Company 
or the ED. The ED may be entitled to receive incentive payments or additional benefits (such as performance rights under the 
Long Term Incentive Plan in the future, subject to law and compliance with Listing Rules). Termination provisions are as follows:

Resignation
Termination for cause
Termination in cases of death, disablement, 
redundancy or notice without cause

Notice Period 
and/or 
Notice in Lieu

12 months
None

Restraint 
Period

3 months
3 months

12 months

3 months

Treatment 
of STI

Treatment 
of LTI

Nil
Nil

Nil

Nil
Nil

Nil

Executive Management Group 
Members of the executive management group are employed under ongoing contracts which can be terminated with notice by 
either the Company or the employee. Termination provisions are as follows:

Notice Period 
and/or 
Notice in Lieu

Restraint 
Period

Treatment 
of STI

Treatment 
of LTI

Resignation

3 months

3 months

Termination for cause

None

3 months

Termination in cases of death, disablement, 
redundancy or notice without cause

3 months

3 months

Unvested 
awards forfeited
Unvested 
awards forfeited
Pro-rated 
for time and 
performance

Unvested awards forfeited

Vested and unexercised 
awards forfeited
Pro-rated for time and 
remain on-foot subject 
to original performance 
hurdles

44

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report Remuneration Report continued  
KMP Remuneration for the Financial Year ended 30 June 2019
The following table of KMP remuneration has been prepared in accordance with accounting standards and the Corporations Act 
2001 requirements. The amounts shown relating to share based remuneration are equal to the accounting expense recognised 
in the Company’s financial statements in respect of the LTI grants to KMP. The amounts disclosed do not reflect the actual cash 
amount received in this year or in future years:  

Fixed Remuneration

Non-
Monetary
$

Long Service 
and Annual
Leave
$

Other
$

Variable 
Remuneration

Super-
annuation
$

Cash 
Bonus
$

Performance
Rights(i)
$

Performance
related 
%

Total
$ 

Salary 
and Fees
Year
$
Executive Directors
Peter Bender
2019
2018
Frances Bender
2019
2018

532,042
514,986

164,797
160,371

15,218
14,647

–
–

Key Management Personnel

16,194
–

Philip Wiese
476,303
2019
2018
398,681
Thomas Haselgrove
2019
224,745
51,374
53,492
215,213
2018
David Morehead (from July 2017)
–
276,137
2019
2018
–
268,722
Charles Hughes (from July 2017)
–
253,578
2019
2018
–
246,769
David Mitchell (from July 2017)
253,578
2019
246,769
2018

–
–

Total

2019
2018

2,181,180
2,051,511

82,786
68,139

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

97,301
(2,815)

23,312
25,105

24,755
7,647

25,750
23,576

30,481
4,316

9,747
23,582

28,743
8,316

11,189
12,812

24,195
25,805

25,028
25,527

26,233
25,529

24,090
23,443

18,148
(2,465)

24,090
23,443

220,364
51,393

172,698
172,428

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

253,470
411,388

921,343
963,311

–
–

215,302
191,594

76,600
124,039

623,773
552,841

41,398
67,031

352,292
384,845

41,400
67,035

372,513
369,602

38,019
61,559

326,876
344,583

38,019
61,559

333,835
329,306

488,906 3,145,934
792,611 3,136,082

(i)  Amounts recognised for Performance Rights relate to the expense recognised for the period.

28%
43%

0%
0%

12%
22%

12%
17%

11%
18%

12%
18%

11%
19%

16%
25%

45

 
Non-executive Director (NED) Remuneration
The RNC seeks to set a combined remuneration level that provides the Company with the capability to attract and retain NEDs 
of the highest calibre and meets acceptable costing levels for shareholders.

The combined remuneration level sought to be approved by shareholders and the NED fee structure will be reviewed annually 
against fees paid to NEDs from equivalent companies (S&P ASX 200 listed companies with market capitalisation of 50% to 200% 
of the Company as well as similar sized industry comparators). The RNC may also take advice from independent remuneration 
consultants when undertaking the annual review process.

The Company’s Constitution stipulates that the Board shall determine the total amount paid to each NED as remuneration for 
their services to the Company. Under the ASX Listing Rules, the total amount of fees paid to NEDs must not, in any financial year, 
exceed the amount determined by the Company in a general meeting or until so determined by the Board. This amount has been 
determined by the Board to be $800,000. 

NEDs receive a Board fee and fees for chairing or participating on Board Committees (refer table below). NEDs do not receive 
remuneration that is calculated as a commission or a percentage of operating revenue or profits. Superannuation is included in 
all NED remuneration. NEDs do not participate in any incentive programs.

Base fee
Chair (no other fees receivable)
Other non-executive directors
Additional fees
Audit and Risk Management Committee – Chair
Audit and Risk Management Committee – member
Remuneration and Nomination Committee – Chair
Remuneration and Nomination Committee – member

Non-executive Directors
–  Neil Kearney (Chairman and Non-executive Director)
–  Simon Lester (Non-executive Director)
–  Tony Dynon (Non-executive Director)

From 
1 September 
2017 
$

From 
1 August 
2014 
$

160,000
70,000

160,000
70,000

20,000
10,000
20,000
10,000

20,000
–
20,000
–

The table below shows the actual NED remuneration for FY2018 and FY2019. 

Neil Kearney (Chairman)
2019
2018
Simon Lester
2019
2018
Tony Dynon
2019
2018
Total Non-executive Director remuneration
2019
2018

Base
$

146,119
146,119

61,324
61,324

61,324
61,324

268,767
268,767

ARC
$

–
–

10,000
10,000

20,000
20,000

30,000
30,000

RNC
$

–
–

20,000
20,000

10,000
10,000

30,000
30,000

Super-
annuation
$

13,881
13,881

8,676
8,676

8,676
8,676

31,233
31,233

Total 
$

160,000
160,000

100,000
100,000

100,000
100,000

360,000
360,000

46

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report Remuneration Report continued Director and KMP Shareholdings
The table below refers to shareholdings of Directors, KMP and their related parties.  

Neil Kearney(i)
Simon Lester(i)
Tony Dynon(i)
Peter Bender
Frances Bender
Peter and Frances Bender(i)
Philip Wiese(i)
Thomas Haselgrove
David Morehead
Charles Hughes(i)
David Mitchell

(i) 

Includes indirect holdings

Balance 
at start of 
FY2019 

6,316
14,516
6,080
13,098,477
5,794
44,587,252
6,240
15,000
12,587
6,585
6,830

Acquired 
during 
FY2019 

Received on 
vesting of rights 
to deferred 
shares 

Other 
changes 
during 
FY2019 

–
–
–
–
–
22,000
8,000
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
62,496
–
–
18,917
10,222
10,222
9,388
9,388

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Balance 
at end of 
FY2019 

6,316
14,516
6,080
13,160,973
5,794
44,609,252
33,157
25,222
22,809
15,973
16,218

Transactions with KMP and their Related Parties

Loans to KMP and their Related Parties 
The Company has not issued any loans to its Directors or KMP or their related parties.

Other Transactions and Balances with KMP and their Related Parties 

Related Entity Name

Relevant KMP

Nature of transaction

Amount transacted 
during the financial 
year period 
$

James Bender Contracting Pty Ltd (JBC)*
PAB Contracting Pty Ltd (PAB)*

Peter, Frances Bender
Peter, Frances Bender

Lease of equipment to Huon
Lease of equipment to Huon

359,357
96,000

* Based on commercial terms.

47

Indemnification of Directors, Officers and Auditors
The Company indemnifies current and former Directors and officers for any loss arising from any claim by reason of any wrongful 
act committed by them in their capacity as a director or officer (subject to certain exclusions as required by law). During the 2019 
financial year, Huon paid a total of $76,568 in premiums for Directors and Officers Liability insurance. The Company has not 
otherwise, during or since the end of the financial year, except to the extent permitted by law, indemnified or agreed to indemnify 
an officer or auditor of the Company or of any related body corporate against a liability incurred as such by an officer or auditor.

Auditor’s Independence Declaration
There were no former partners or directors of PricewaterhouseCoopers, the Company’s auditor, who are or were at any time 
during the financial year an officer of the Company.

A copy of the auditor’s independence declaration as required under section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001 is set out on 
page 50 and forms part of this Directors’ Report.

Non-Audit Services
The Company may decide to employ the auditor for assignments additional to their statutory audit duties where the auditor’s 
expertise and experience with the Company and/or the Consolidated Group are important.

During the year the following fees were paid or payable for non-audit services provided by the auditor (PricewaterhouseCoopers 
Australia), its related practices and non-related audit firms are set out below:

PricewaterhouseCoopers Australia
Audit and other assurance services
Audit and review of financial statements
Other assurance services
Total remuneration for audit services

Taxation & other advisory services
Taxation & other advisory services
Other advisory services
Total remuneration for taxation & other advisory services

Total remuneration of PricewaterhouseCoopers Australia

Consolidated 
2019 
$

Consolidated 
2018 
$

200,000
6,000
206,000

200,000
7,800
207,800

114,922
–
114,922

320,922

40,800
–
40,800

248,600

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

The Directors are satisfied that the provision of non-audit services by the auditor, as set out above, did not compromise the 
auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 for the following reasons:

(i)    All non-audit services have been reviewed by the Audit and Risk Management Committee to ensure they do not impact the 

impartiality and objectivity of the auditor.

(ii)   None of the services undermine the general principles relating to auditor independence as set out in APES 110 Code of Ethics 

for Professional Accountants.

48

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Directors’ Report continuedProceedings on Behalf of the Company
There were no proceedings brought, or intervened in, on behalf of the Company with 
leave under section 237 of the Corporations Act 2001.

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

This report is made in accordance with a resolution of Directors.

Neil Kearney  
Chairman  
29 August 2019

Peter Bender  
Managing Director and CEO  
29 August 2019

49

Auditor’s Independence Declaration

Auditor’s Independence Declaration 
As lead auditor for the audit of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited for the year ended 30 June 2019, I 
declare that to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:  

(a) 

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

(b) 

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

This declaration is in respect of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited and the entities it controlled during 
the period. 

Alison Tait 
Partner 
PricewaterhouseCoopers 

Melbourne 
29 August 2019 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, ABN 52 780 433 757 
2 Riverside Quay, SOUTHBANK  VIC  3006, GPO Box 1331, MELBOURNE  VIC  3001 
T: 61 3 8603 1000, F: 61 3 8603 1999, www.pwc.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

50

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019   
 
  
  
Corporate Governance Statement

The Board of Directors (Board) of Huon Aquaculture 
Group Limited (Huon) is responsible for the 
corporate governance of the Company. The Board 
guides and monitors the business and affairs of the 
Company on behalf of the shareholders. Strong 
corporate governance is an important aspect in 
ensuring that Huon creates sustainable long-term 
value for its shareholders.

Huon is committed to ensuring high standards of 
corporate governance. This statement outlines the 
key aspects of Huon’s governance framework and its 
principal governance practices.

The Board believes that Huon’s policies and practices 
comply in all material respects with the ASX Corporate 
Governance Council’s Corporate Governance Principles 
(3rd Edition) (ASX Principles and Recommendations) with 
the exception of Recommendation 7.3 (Internal Audit 
function) as detailed in this Statement.

This Corporate Governance Statement was approved by 
the Board and is current as at 29 August 2019.

Further information about Huon’s corporate governance 
practices and policies can be found on the Company’s 
website.  

Principle 1:  
Lay solid foundations for management 
and oversight

Role of Board and Management
The Board represents shareholders’ interests and is 
accountable for the overall operation and stewardship of  
the Company and, in particular, for its long-term growth 
and profitability. The Board is responsible for evaluating 
and setting the strategic direction of the Company, 
establishing goals for management and monitoring the 
achievement of these goals. 

Huon’s Board Charter sets out the Board’s key 
responsibilities as follows:

Strategy 
–  providing input to, and approval of, the Company’s 
strategic direction and budgets as developed by 
management;

–  directing, monitoring and assessing the Company’s 
performance against strategic and business plans;
–  reviewing the adequacy of resources for management 
to properly carry out approved strategies and business 
plans; and

–  approving and monitoring capital management and 

major capital expenditure, acquisitions and divestments.

Risk management and reporting
–  identifying the principal risks and overseeing appropriate 

control and management systems for them;

–  reviewing and ratifying the Company’s system of risk 
management and internal compliance and control; 
–  determining that satisfactory arrangements are in place 

for auditing the Company’s financial affairs; and

–  approving and monitoring material internal and external 

financial and other reporting.

Relationship with management
–  appointment and removal of the Chief Executive Officer 

(CEO) and Company Secretary;

–  approving the remuneration framework and overseeing 

remuneration policies and Executive Management 
performance; and

–  establishing and monitoring executive succession 

planning.

Monitoring of performance
–  approving criteria for assessing performance of 

Executive Management and monitoring and evaluating 
their performance; and

–  undertaking an annual evaluation of the performance  

of the Board.

Corporate governance
The Board is responsible for ensuring that policies and 
compliance systems are in place consistent with the 
Company’s objectives and best practice and that the 
Company and its employees act legally, ethically and 
responsibly on all matters.

The Board has adopted a Delegated Authority Policy 
which outlines the reserved and delegated responsibilities 
of the Board and the responsibilities of the Executive 
Management when delegated authority. The CEO and 
Executive Management are responsible for matters 
primarily relating to the day-to-day operations and 
management of the Company and are accountable to 
the Board.

The Board’s role and the Company’s corporate 
governance practices and policies are being continually 
reviewed and improved as the business grows and 
develops.

Board appointments
The responsibility for the selection of potential Directors 
lies with the Board of the Company. Appropriate 
background and other checks are undertaken before 
candidates are considered and appointed by the Board. 
Directors are initially appointed by the Board subject 
to election by shareholders at the next Annual General 
Meeting. Shareholders are provided with all material 
information on whether or not to elect or re-elect a person 
as a Director including whether the person will qualify as 
an independent Director.

Under the Company’s Constitution the tenure of Directors 
is subject to reappointment by shareholders not later than 
the third anniversary following his/her appointment. 

Written agreements with Directors and 
Executive Management
Directors have a formal letter of appointment that sets 
out the key terms and conditions of their appointment. 
All Directors also sign a Deed which covers issues 
including indemnity, directors’ and officers’ liability 
insurance, the right to obtain independent advice and 
requirements concerning confidential information. 
Executive Management are also engaged under a written 
agreement setting out the terms of their employment.

51

Company Secretary
The Company Secretary is accountable to the Board, 
through the Chairman of the Board, on all matters to 
do with the proper functioning of the Board and Board 
Committees. This includes:

–  Board agendas
–  Board papers and minutes 
–  advising the Board and its Committees on governance 

matters 

–  monitoring the implementation of Board and Committee 

policies and procedures; and 

–  statutory and other filings and communication with 

regulatory bodies and the ASX.

Diversity policy
In 2014, Huon’s Board endorsed its Diversity Policy. 
The Diversity Policy reflects the Company’s approach to 
managing its greatest asset, its people.

Huon is recognised as an Employer of Choice by the 
Tasmanian Government in acknowledgement of the highly 
innovative working culture, opportunities for career growth 
and the family culture within the workforce.

Huon’s workforce is made up of many individuals with 
diverse skills, values, experiences and backgrounds. 
The Company is committed to supporting and further 
developing this diversity through attracting, recruiting, 
engaging and retaining diverse talent and aligning its 
culture and systems with this commitment.

The Company believes that commitment to diversity 
creates competitive advantage and enhances employee 
participation which is essential to the success of the 
business. The Board has set measurable objectives and 
the aim of these is to create an environment conducive 
to the appointment of well qualified and experienced 
Board members, Executive Management Group, Senior 
Management team and employees.

Diversity objectives
–  Foster an inclusive culture of workplace diversity
–  Apply and promote Flexible Work Practices Policy
–  Present diversity data on Huon’s Sustainability 

Dashboard

–  Ensure appropriately qualified and relevantly
–  experienced women are considered at short list stage for 

Board appointments

–  Progressively increase female representation where the 
business unit is at less than 20% with specific focus on 
operational areas

–  Progressively increase female participation in Huon’s 
Leadership Education and Development Programs

–  Align selection practices to deliver an equal mix 
of male and female students for school-based 
apprenticeships.

52

Progress with diversity objectives
There has been steady progress towards achieving the 
diversity objectives with systems and structured programs 
in place to support employees from their early career 
stages to assist in developing the necessary skills and 
relevant experience for leadership roles.

Progress for this reporting period is as follows:

–  Overall increase in female representation company wide 
–  Continued review of remuneration across the business to 

ensure equity 

–  A continued increase in female representation in Senior 

Management positions

–  Supporting the “Women on Water” Scholarship to 
encourage and support a higher representation of 
female employees in marine related roles.

–  An increase in female representation within the position 
categories of Technicians and Trades, and Sales of over 
17%

–  Promotions of female employees into Management and 

non-Management positions has increased by 6%

The Company continues to prioritise merit and competency 
base selection criteria at the same time recognising 
diversity in each application of its recruitment and 
promotion methods. The Company anticipates a long and 
steady increase in female workforce proportion particularly 
in relevant key roles and as such has not set a gender 
target. 

Diversity outcomes
–  20% (2018: 20%) female proportion on the Board
–  0% (2018: 0%) female proportion in Executive 

Management Group

–  21% (2018: 15%) female proportion in Senior 

Management

–  14% (2018: 13%) female proportion Management
–  20% (2018: 19%) female proportion Company wide

Workplace Gender Equality Agency WGEA Report
The Company lodged its annual public report with the 
Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) including 
gender pay equity and achieved compliance status. A copy 
of the report can be viewed on the Company website.

Board performance evaluation
The Board adopted a self-evaluation process to review its 
own, its Committees’ and individual Directors performance 
during FY2019. The Board also reviews the composition 
and skills mix of the Directors on an ongoing basis to 
ensure that the Board has the necessary and desirable 
competencies to govern effectively.  

Executive Management performance evaluation 
Arrangements are in place by the Board to monitor 
and assess the performance of the CEO and Executive 
Management each financial year. These include:

–  a review of the Company’s financial and operating 

performance against targets; and

–  performance appraisals incorporating an analysis of  
the key performance indicators with each individual.

The Board conducts the performance evaluation of the 
CEO and the CEO conducts the performance evaluations 
of the Executive Management.

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Corporate Governance Statement continuedPrinciple 2:  
Structure the Board to add value

Remuneration and Nominations Committee
The Board has a Remuneration and Nomination Committee 
(RNC) comprising three Non-executive Directors, with the 
Chairman being an independent Non-executive Director. 

The RNC Charter outlines the Committee’s role in assisting 
the Board with decisions regarding the composition 
and structure of the Board. It does this by reviewing and 
making recommendations to the Board in relation to:

–  the appointment and re-election of Directors;
–  the induction and continuing professional development 

of Directors;

–  Board succession planning;
–  the recruitment process for a new Director; 
–  Board, Committees and Director performance 

evaluation; and

–  succession plans for the CEO and other Senior 

Management.

Board composition, skills and experience
The Constitution of the Company provides that the number 
of Directors must at any time be no more than ten and no 
less than three. The Huon Board is currently comprised of 
five Directors. A profile of each Director can be found in 
the on pages 30 to 31 of this Annual Report.

In order to govern effectively, Directors must have a 
clear understanding of the Company’s overall strategy, 
together with knowledge of the Company and the industry 
it operates in. Directors must collectively possess the 
appropriate skills and experience to enable the Board to 
effectively discharge its responsibilities. 

The current skills matrix of the Directors of the Board 
brings together extensive expertise and experience in 
relation to all areas of the day-to-day and commercial 
elements of the Company including:

–  industry knowledge – salmon, aquaculture and food;
–  international and domestic food markets;
–  senior corporate leadership;
–  strategy and business development;
–  governance and risk management;
–  corporate finance;
–  brand and marketing; and
–  sustainability practices.

The Company actively seeks a variety of skills, experience 
and expertise to ensure the Board can meet its current and 
future needs.

Board and Director independence
Huon has adopted a definition of independence which is 
consistent with the ASX Principles and Recommendations. 

The Non-executive Chairman of the Board, Neil Kearney, 
and Non-executive Directors, Simon Lester and Tony 
Dynon, are considered to be independent, meaning 
that each is free from any management role or business 
interest or other relationship that could materially interfere 
with their ability to act in the best interests of Huon as 
a whole. The Board is confident that each of the Non-
executive Directors brings objectivity and makes sound 
individual contributions to the Company through their deep 
understanding of Huon’s business.

The two Executive Directors, Peter Bender (CEO and 
Managing Director) and Frances Bender are not 
independent by virtue of being substantial shareholders 
in the Company and employed by the Company in an 
executive capacity.

The Directors are satisfied that there is no individual or 
group of individuals who dominate the Board’s decision-
making, and that the current composition of the Board 
maximises the likelihood that the decisions of the Board 
will reflect the best interests of the Company and its 
shareholders. 

Only those transactions permitted by Huon’s Constitution 
and the Corporations Act are conducted with Directors 
or their related parties. These are on the same terms and 
conditions applying to any other external party, supplier or 
customer. Directors are required to disclose in writing any 
related party transactions.

Directors are also required to identify any conflicts of 
interest they may have in dealing with Huon’s affairs and 
subsequently to refrain from participating in any discussion 
or voting on those matters. If a potential conflict of interest 
is likely to arise, the Director concerned does not receive 
copies of relevant Board papers and withdraws from 
the Board meeting while those matters are considered. 
The Director concerned therefore takes no part in the 
discussion and does not exercise any influence over other 
members of the Board.

The Board has determined that individual Directors have 
the right in connection with their duties and responsibilities 
as Directors to seek independent professional advice at 
the Company’s expense. The engagement of an outside 
adviser is subject to prior approval of the Chairman. If 
appropriate, any advice received will be made available to 
all Board members.

Director induction and ongoing professional 
development
The induction of Directors is the role of the Remuneration 
and Nomination Committee and includes ensuring an 
effective orientation program is in place. Directors are 
encouraged to engage in professional development 
activities and to develop and maintain the skills and 
knowledge needed to perform their role as a Director 
effectively.

Principle 3:  
Act ethically and responsibly
The Company is committed to maintaining ethical 
standards in the conduct of its business activities. The 
Company strongly believes that its reputation as an ethical 
business organisation is important to its ongoing success.

Code of Conduct
The Board has adopted a Code of Conduct which applies 
to all Directors and employees of the Company and where 
relevant and to the extent possible, consultants, secondees 
and contractors of the Company.

The Code addresses issues including; ethics, personal and 
business conduct, conflicts of interest, mutual respect and 
business agreements and contracts.

53

All suspected breaches of the Code will be thoroughly 
investigated by the Company. If these investigations 
reveal breaches of the Code appropriate disciplinary and 
remedial action will be taken depending on the nature of 
the breach.

If an employee suspects that a breach of the Code 
has occurred or will occur, he or she must report that 
breach to the appropriate person. No employee will be 
disadvantaged or prejudiced if he or she reports, in good 
faith, a suspected breach. All reports will be acted upon 
and kept confidential where appropriate.

The Huon Code of Conduct can be viewed on the 
Company website.

Principle 4:  
Safeguard integrity in corporate reporting

Audit and Risk Management Committee 
An Audit and Risk Management Committee is in place to 
assist the Board of the Company in fulfilling its corporate 
governance and oversight responsibilities in relation to 
the Company’s financial reports and financial reporting 
process and internal control structure, risk management 
systems (financial and non-financial), and the internal and 
external audit process. The Audit and Risk Management 
Committee Charter outlines its key responsibilities as 
follows:

–  review and approve internal audit and external audit 

plans;

–  update the internal and external audit plans;
–  review and approve financial reports; and
–  review the effectiveness of the Company’s compliance 

and risk management functions.

The Committee consists of three Non-executive Directors 
and a majority of independent Directors. The Chairman of 
the Committee is an independent Director and is not the 
Chairman of the Board.

Integrity of Financial Reporting –  
CEO and CFO Certification
The CEO, Deputy CEO and CFO respectively provide 
assurance to the Board that:

–  Huon’s financial reports for each half year and full year 
present a true and fair view of the financial position and 
performance of the Company and are in accordance 
with the accounting standards;

–  their opinion is based on a sound system of risk 

management and internal compliance and control; and

–  the Company’s risk management and internal 

compliance and control system is operating effectively.

Role of the External Auditor at the AGM 
The Company’s external auditor attends the Company’s 
AGM and is available to answer questions about the 
conduct of the audit and the preparation and content  
of the auditor’s report.

Principle 5:  
Make timely and balanced disclosure

Continuous Disclosure
The Company is committed to effective communication 
with its customers, shareholders, market participants, 
employees, suppliers, financiers, creditors, other 
stakeholders and the wider community. The Company 
will ensure that all stakeholders, market participants and 
the wider community are informed of its activities and 
performance on a timely basis.

Subject to the ASX Listing Rules, the Company will make 
publicly available all information to ensure that trading 
in its shares takes place in an efficient, competitive and 
informed market.

The Board has adopted a Continuous Disclosure Policy 
to ensure the Company complies with all disclosure 
obligations. The Policy addresses all continuous disclosure 
requirements under the Listing Rules and Corporations Act 
and incorporates best practice guidelines recommended 
by ASX, ASIC and the Australasian Investor Relations 
Association (AIRA). The Company Secretary is responsible 
for the overall administration and monitoring of the 
Continuous Disclosure Policy. 

Huon’s Continuous Disclosure Policy can be viewed on 
the Company website. 

Principle 6:  
Respect the rights of security holders

Information about Huon and its 
Governance for Investors
Huon places considerable importance on effective 
engagement and communications with shareholders.

It recognises the value of providing current and relevant 
information to its shareholders. The Board has adopted  
a Communications Policy which is designed to ensure that 
the Company:

–  provides timely and accurate information equally to all 
shareholders and market participants regarding the 
Company including its financial situation, performance, 
ownership, strategies, activities and governance; and
–  adopts channels for disseminating information that are 

fair, timely and cost efficient.

This information is made available through:

–  the Company’s website;
–  the Huon Aquaculture Sustainability Dashboard;
–  briefings and the investor relations program;
–  the media; 
–  continuous disclosure to the ASX; 
–  Company meetings; and
–  the Annual Report.

The Annual Report (which includes Huon’s 
Corporate Governance Statement) can be viewed on 
the Company website. 

54

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Corporate Governance Statement continuedInvestor Relations Program
Huon is committed to the promotion of investor confidence 
by ensuring trading in the Company’s shares takes place in 
an efficient, competitive and informed market. The Deputy 
CEO of the Company leads the investor relations program 
and is responsible for the Company’s relationship with 
major shareholders, institutional investors and analysts 
and is the primary point of contact for those parties. 
A key component of leading this program is ongoing 
availability. Huon’s Continuous Disclosure Policy and 
its Communications Policy are integral elements of the 
investor relations program.

Any written material containing new price-sensitive 
information to be used in briefing the media, institutional 
investors and analysts are lodged with ASX prior to the 
briefing commencing. On confirmation of receipt by ASX, 
the briefing material is posted to Huon’s website. Briefing 
materials may also include information that may not strictly 
be required under the continuous disclosure requirements.

Huon will not disclose price-sensitive information in 
any meeting with investors or analysts before formally 
disclosing it to the market. The Company considers that 
one-on-one discussions and meeting with investors and 
analysts are an important part of pro-active investor 
relations.

Policies and processes to facilitate and encourage 
participation at meetings of security holders
The Company strongly encourages all shareholders 
to attend meetings and uses and relies on its 
Communications Policy to ensure awareness and 
accessibility of those meetings. The Board encourages 
full participation of shareholders at the Annual General 
Meeting to ensure a high level of accountability and 
understanding of the Company’s strategy and goals. 
Shareholders are able to submit questions prior to the 
Annual General Meeting if they are unable to attend.

Give security holders the option to receive 
communications from, and send communications 
to, the entity and its security registry electronically
Shareholders are able to receive and send communications 
to the Company and its share registry electronically via the 
Link Investor Centre. Shareholders are also able to sign 
up for regular email alerts which include notification of 
announcements, reports, presentations and summaries. 
Huon posts all reports, ASX and media releases and copies 
of significant business presentations on its website. Both 
email alerts and the Link Investor Centre can be accessed 
via the Investor section of the Company website.  

Principle 7:  
Recognise and manage risk

Committee to oversee Risk
The Board is responsible for risk oversight and the 
management and internal control of the processes by 
which risk is considered for both ongoing operations 
and prospective actions. In specific areas the Board is 
assisted by the Audit and Risk Management Committee 
which is responsible for establishing procedures which 
provide assurance that major business risks are identified, 
consistently assessed and appropriately addressed. The 
Committee’s focus is on risk assessment, including the 
identification and management of risks as they relate to:

–  operational and environmental risk;
–  workplace health and safety management; and
–  financial risk.

The Committee consists of three Non-executive Directors 
and a majority of independent Directors. The Chairman of 
the Committee is an independent Director and is not the 
Chairman of the Board.

Review Huon’s Risk Management Framework
The Risk Management Policy and Risk Management 
Framework are reviewed on an annual basis. Any 
amendments to the Policy and/or Risk Management 
Framework must be approved by the Board. In addition 
the Board reviews the Company’s risk management 
at Board meetings, and where required, makes 
improvements to its risk management and internal 
compliance control systems.

Internal Audit Function
The Company does not have an internal audit function 
due to the nature and size of the Company and the 
extent of its Risk Management Framework. The Company 
currently relies on oversight by management, the Audit 
and Risk Management Committee and the Board to 
ensure compliance with Huon’s Risk Management Policy. 
The Audit and Risk Management Committee has decided 
not to introduce an internal audit function, but has 
engaged the services of a third party to further support 
the internal audit function during FY2019.

Management of material exposure to economic, 
environmental and social sustainability risks
A key pillar of the Company’s business strategy is to grow 
safely and sustainably. Sustainability and environmental 
measures continue to be a priority for Huon with 
significant time invested in community consultation and 
the refinement of systems and procedures directed at 
positive economic, environmental, animal welfare and 
social outcomes across the business operations. Risk 
recognition and management are viewed by the Company 
as integral to its objectives of creating and maintaining 
shareholder value and to the successful execution of the 
Company’s strategies.

55

There are a number of risks, both specific to Huon 
and of a general nature which may threaten the future 
operating and financial performance of the Company 
and its investment value including:

Risk Type

Identified Risk 

Agricultural

Supply, growth and mortality of fish
Ability for fresh water bathing
Fish feed formulation
Biosecurity and farming practices
Disease and disease management
Broodstock and smolt supply

Social

Environmental Resource availability and disease
Predator threats
AGD, algae and jellyfish
Extreme weather events
High water temperature and 
environmental influences
Fresh water supply
Stakeholder engagement
Regulation
Animal welfare
Antibiotics use
Fishmeal and fish oil in feed formulations
Fish feed prices, supply and quality
Market and credit risk
Brand and reputation
Fuel and energy prices
Key facility reliance
Legal and contractual
IT reliability and reliance
Equipment and work practices
Staff health, wellbeing and training

Economic

OHS

These risks may change over time as the external 
environment changes and as the Company expands its 
operations. The Company’s Risk Management Policy 
outlines processes Huon has adopted for the regular 
assessment and identification of risks as well as providing 
a management and response framework including the 
mitigation of risks where appropriate. Further information 
on Huon’s assessment of the principal risks which could 
have a material impact on the Company are set out on 
pages 26 to 28 in this Annual Report.

Principle 8:  
Remunerate fairly and responsibly

Remuneration and Nominations Committee
The Remuneration and Nomination Committee 
(RNC) assists the Board by reviewing and making 
recommendations on remuneration arrangements for 
Directors and Executives of the Company including:

–  the Company’s remuneration framework;
–  the Company’s recruitment, retention and termination 

policies;

–  the Company’s remuneration policies including as they 

apply to Directors; 

56

–  equity based remuneration plans for Executive 

Management and other employees; and

–  the remuneration packages for Directors, the CEO  

and Executive Management. 

When needed, the Company has also sought advice 
from external advisers in relation to the development 
of appropriate incentive plans for Key Management 
Personnel (KMP).  

Policies and practices regarding the 
remuneration of Non-executive Directors 
and the remuneration of executive Directors 
and other Executive Management
The Company is committed to attracting and retaining 
the best people to work in the organisation including 
Directors and Executive Management. The Board adopted 
a Remuneration Policy which aims to:

–  ensure that coherent remuneration policies and practices 
are observed which enable the attraction and retention 
of Directors and management who will create value for 
shareholders;

–  fairly and responsibly reward Directors and Executive 

Management having regard to the Company’s 
performance, the performance of the Executive 
Management and the general pay environment; and
–  comply with all relevant legal and regulatory provisions.

Remuneration for Executive Directors and Executive 
Management incorporates fixed and variable pay 
performance elements with both a short and long term 
focus. Remuneration packages may contain any or all of 
the following:

–  annual base salary; 
–  performance based remuneration; 
–  equity based remuneration;
–  other benefits such as holidays, sickness benefits, 

superannuation payments and long service benefits;

–  expense reimbursement; and
–  termination payments.

The remuneration of Non-executive Directors is 
determined by the Board as a whole reflecting the value 
of the individual’s time commitment and responsibilities. 
Remuneration packages may contain any or all of annual 
fees, equity based remuneration and other benefits such as 
superannuation payments. The total remuneration of Non-
executive Directors must not exceed the maximum annual 
amount approved by Company’s shareholders (currently 
$800,000). Detailed information on the Company’s 
remuneration policy and key principles and also the 
remuneration received by Directors and Key Management 
Personnel in FY2019 is set out in the Remuneration Report 
on pages 35 to 47 in this Annual Report.

Equity based remuneration
Both the Remuneration and Nomination Committee 
Charter and the Remuneration Policy contain oversight 
regarding equity-based remuneration. Huon’s long term 
incentive (LTI) plan is delivered through the granting 
of performance rights which convert to shares in the 
Company on achievement of specified performance 
conditions. Participants in the LTI plan are not permitted 
to enter into transactions which limit the economic risk of 
participating in the plan.

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Corporate Governance Statement continuedHuon Aquaculture Group Limited

Financial Report

Financial Report
For the year ended 30 June 2019

Consolidated financial statements

Consolidated income statement  
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income  
Consolidated balance sheet  
Consolidated statement of changes in equity 
Consolidated statement of cashflows 

58 
59
60
61 
62

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

About this report

Other

18.  Financial assets  
19.  Other financial assets 
20.  Fair value measurements 
21.  Financial risk management 
22.  Parent information  
23.  Deed of cross guarantee 
24.  Income tax  
25.  Key management personnel compensation 
26.  Share-based payment 
27.  Related party transactions 
28.  Remuneration of auditors 
29.  Goodwill  
30.  Other intangible assets 
31.  Interests in subsidiaries 
32.  Other financial liabilities 
33.  Provisions  
34.  Other liabilities 
35.  Contingent liabilities and contingent assets 
36.  Segment information  
37.  Subsequent events  
38.  Company details 

82
82
82
84
89
90
91
94
94
97
98
99
101
102
102
103
104
104
105
105
105

Basis of preparation  
Principles of consolidation  
Application of new and revised Accounting Standards 

63
63
63 

Performance

1.  Revenue 
2.  Other Income 
3.  Profit for the year before tax 
4.  Biological assets 
5.  Earnings per share (EPS) 
6.  Dividends 

Investment in growth strategy

7.  Property, plant and equipment 
8.  Other non-current assets 
9.  Capital and leasing commitments 

Net debt and working capital

10.  Notes to the statement of cashflows 
11.  Trade and other receivables 
12.  Inventories 
13.  Other assets 
14.  Trade and other payables 
15.  Borrowings 
16.  Issued capital 
17.  Other reserves 

Signed reports

Directors’ Declaration  
Independent Auditor’s Report to the Members  

Shareholder information 

66
66
67
68
69
70

71
73
74

75
76
77
77
 77
78
80
81

106
107

113

57

Annual Report 2019Consolidated income statement
For the year ended 30 June 2019

Revenue from operations

Other income

Expenses
Fair value adjustment of biological assets
Changes in inventories of finished goods and work in progress
Raw materials and consumables used
Employee benefits expense
Depreciation and amortisation expense
Finance costs
Freight & distribution expenses
Other expenses

Total expenses

Profit before income tax expense
Income tax benefit/(expense)

Net profit for the period attributable to members of the Company

Earnings per ordinary share
Basic (cents per share)
Diluted (cents per share)

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated
2018
$’000 

Note 

1

2

4

3
3
3

24

281,955

317,896

9,258

10,747

(9,118)
49,299
(184,410)
(69,363)
(30,321)
(8,174)
(13,454)
(21,374)

(12,867)
(5,765)
(154,309)
(58,304)
(24,455)
(3,659)
(18,442)
(20,296)

(286,915)

(298,097)

4,298
5,154

9,452

30,546
(4,159)

26,387

Cents 
per share
2019 

Cents 
per share
2018

Note 

5
5

10.82
10.82

30.21
30.21

The number of shares used to determine earnings per ordinary share (EPS) is disclosed in note 5 to the accounts.

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

58

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Financial StatementsConsolidated statement of comprehensive income
For the year ended 30 June 2019

Profit for the period
Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the period (net of tax)

Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Owners of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated
2018
$’000 

9,452
–

9,452

9,452

9,452

26,387
–

26,387

26,387

26,387

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

59

Financial StatementsHuon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 
Consolidated balance sheet
As at 30 June 2019

Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Biological assets
Other financial assets
Current tax receivable
Other assets

Total current assets

Non-current assets
Financial assets
Property, plant and equipment
Other assets
Intangible assets

Total non-current assets

Total assets

Liabilities
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Borrowings
Other financial liabilities
Current tax liabilities
Provisions
Other current liabilities

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities
Borrowings
Deferred tax liabilities
Provisions
Other non-current liabilities

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity
Contributed equity
Other reserves
Retained earnings

Total equity

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated
2018
$’000 

Note 

10
11
12
4
19
24
13

18
7
8
29,30

14
15
32
24
33
34

15
24
33
34

16
17

2,611
30,468
12,810
209,129
56
1,578
9,168

2,787
32,923
12,397
169,361
571
–
4,970

265,820

223,009

1,342
320,386
8,853
3,325

1,342
286,323
9,295
2,995

333,906

299,955

599,726

522,964

72,430
9,652
2,222
–
7,581
464

52,311
39,160
–
6,432
6,572
464

92,349

104,939

131,742
58,190
1,365
1,960

44,961
57,577
1,358
2,424

193,257

106,320

285,606

211,259

314,120

311,705

164,302
1,324
148,494

164,302
1,374
146,029

314,120

311,705

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

60

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Financial StatementsConsolidated statement of changes in equity
For the year ended 30 June 2019

Contributed
Equity
$’000

Retained
Earnings
$’000

Note 

Share-based
Payment 
Reserve
$’000

Balance at 1 July 2017
Profit for the period

Total comprehensive income for the year, net of tax
Contributions of equity, net of transactions costs
Share-based payment expense
Dividends paid or provided for

3(b)
6

164,302
–

128,376
26,387

–
–
–
–

26,387
–
–
(8,734)

544
–

–
–
830
–

Total 
Equity
$’000

293,222
26,387

26,387
–
830
(8,734)

Balance at 30 June 2018

164,302

146,029

1,374

311,705

Contributed
Equity
$’000

Retained
Earnings
$’000

Note 

Share-based
Payment 
Reserve
$’000

Total 
Equity
$’000

Balance at 1 July 2018
Profit for the period

164,302
–

146,029
9,452

1,374
–

311,705
9,452

Total comprehensive income for the year, net of tax
Contributions of equity, net of transactions costs
Issue of shares pursuant to executive long-term incentive plan
Share-based payment expense
Dividends paid or provided for

17
3(b)
6

–
–
–
–
–

9,452
–
–
–
(6,987)

–
–
(601)
551
–

9,452
–
(601)
551
(6,987)

Balance at 30 June 2019

164,302

148,494

1,324

314,120

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

61

Financial StatementsHuon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019Consolidated statement of cashflows
For the year ended 30 June 2019

Cash flows from operating activities
Receipts from customers
Payments to suppliers and employees

Interest received
Interest and other costs of finance paid
Income tax (paid)/refunded

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated
2018
$’000 

Note 

295,934
(271,034)

323,506
(266,479)

24,900
7
(8,174)
(2,243)

57,027
356
(3,659)
4,200

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities

10

14,490

57,924

Cash flows from investing activities
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Payments for property, plant and equipment
Payment for business
Payments for other assets

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issues of shares
Proceeds from borrowings
Repayment of borrowings
Dividends paid to company’s shareholders
Payment of shares for employee share plan

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash held
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of financial year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of financial year

10

190
(64,211)
–
(330)

152
(87,679)
–
(1)

(64,351)

(87,528)

–
66,330
(9,057)
(6,987)
(601)

–
29,053
(10,932)
(8,734)

49,685

9,387

(176)
2,787

2,611

(20,217)
23,004

2,787

The above consolidated statement of cash flows should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

62

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Financial StatementsNotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
For the year ended 30 June 2019

About this report
These consolidated financial statements and notes represent 
those of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited and Controlled 
Entities (the ‘Consolidated Group’). Huon Aquaculture 
Group Limited is a company incorporated in Australia, and 
whose shares are publicly traded on the Australian Securities 
Exchange (ASX).

The separate financial statements and notes of Huon 
Aquaculture Group Limited have been presented within this 
financial report as an individual Parent Entity (‘Parent Entity’).

The financial statements were authorised for issue on  
29 August 2019 by the Directors of the Company.

All press releases and other information are available on our 
website www.huonaqua.com.au.

Basis of preparation

These general purpose financial statements have been 
prepared in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, 
Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations of the 
Australian Accounting Standards Board and also comply with 
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board. The Consolidated 
Group is a for-profit entity for financial reporting purposes 
under Australian Accounting Standards. Material accounting 
policies adopted in the preparation of these financial 
statements are presented below and have been consistently 
applied unless stated otherwise. 

The financial statements except for cash flow information, 
have been prepared on an accruals basis and are based on 
historical costs (unless otherwise stated). 

The functional currency of each group entity is measured 
using the currency of the primary economic environment 
in which that entity operates. The consolidated financial 
statements are presented in Australian dollars which is the 
Parent Entity’s functional and presentation currency.

Principles of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets 
and liabilities of all subsidiaries of Huon Aquaculture Group 
Limited (Parent Entity) as at 30 June 2019 and the results of 
all subsidiaries for the year then ended. Huon Aquaculture 
Group Limited and its subsidiaries together are referred to in 
this financial report as the Consolidated Group.

Subsidiaries are all entities over which the group has control. 
The group controls an entity when the group is exposed to, 
or has 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.

The acquisition method of accounting is used to account 
for business combinations by the group.

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised 
gains on transactions between group companies are 
eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless 
the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the 
transferred asset. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have 
been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with 
the policies adopted by the group.

Application of new and revised 
Accounting Standards

Amendments to AASBs and the new 
Interpretation that are mandatorily  
effective for the current year:

In the current year, the Consolidated Group has 
applied a number of amendments to AASB’s and new 
Interpretations issued by the Australian Accounting 
Standards Board (AASB) that are mandatorily effective 
for an accounting period that begins on or after 1 July 
2018, and therefore relevant for the current year end.

AASB 9 
‘Financial Instruments’

AASB 9 Financial Instruments addresses the classification, 
measurement and derecognition of financial assets 
and financial liabilities, introduces new rules for hedge 
accounting and a new impairment model. 

Following the changes approved by the AASB in 
December 2014, there was no impact from the new 
classification, measurement and derecognition rules 
on the group’s financial assets and financial liabilities. 
There has been no impact on the Consolidated 
Group’s accounting for financial liabilities that are 
designated at fair value through profit or loss and the 
Consolidated Group does not have any such liabilities. 
The derecognition rules have been transferred from 
AASB 139 Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement and have not been changed.

The new hedging rules align hedge accounting more 
closely with the Consolidated Group’s risk management 
practices. As a general rule, it will be easier to apply 
hedge accounting going forward as the standard 
introduces a more principles-based approach. The 
new standard also introduces expanded disclosure 
requirements and changes in presentation. 

The new impairment model is an expected credit loss 
(ECL) model which may result in the earlier recognition of 
credit losses.

The Consolidated Group has adopted the standard from 
1 July 2018.

63

AASB 15
‘Revenue from Contracts from Customers’

AASB 15 replaces AASB 118 which covered contracts 
for goods and services and AASB 111 which covered 
construction contracts.

The Consolidated Group performed a review of all sales 
agreements with customers, including those under specific 
contracts and those under the Consolidated Group’s 
general terms of sale. The purpose was to identify the 
differences between the existing AASB 118 and the 
revised AASB 15, in terms of timing of recognition and 
measurement of revenue.

The Consolidated Group sells products with various 
shipping terms, resulting in the Consolidated Group being 
responsible for providing transportation services after 
control of the goods passes to the customer at the last 
loading point. Under AASB 118 revenue was recognised 
when control of the goods was passed to the customer, 
however under AASB 15 revenue is recognised when the 
goods have been delivered to their final destination and 
acknowledged by the customer.

Management has assessed the impact of the new standard, 
and determined that the adoption of the standard has not 
had a material impact on the Consolidated Group. The 
standard has been adopted from 1 July 2018.

AASB 2016-5
‘Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – 
Classification and Measurement of Share-based Payment 
Transactions’

This Standard amends AASB 2 Share-based Payment, 
clarifying how to account for certain types of share-based 
payment transactions.

AASB 2016-6 
Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – 
Applying AASB 9 Financial Instruments with AASB 4 
Insurance Contracts’

This Standard amends AASB 4 Insurance Contracts to 
permit issuers of insurance contracts to:

 – Choose to apply the ‘overlay approach’ that involves 

applying AASB 9 Financial Instruments and also applying 
AASB 139 Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement to eligible financial assets to calculate a 
single line item adjustment to profit or loss so that the 
overall impact on profit or loss is the same as if AASB 9 
had been applied; or

 – Choose to be temporarily exempt from AASB 9 
when those issuers’ activities are predominantly 
connected with insurance, provided they make additional 
disclosures to enable users to make comparisons with 
issuers applying AASB 9.

AASB Interpretation 22 
‘Foreign Currency Transactions and  
Advance Consideration’

This Interpretation clarifies that in determining the spot 
exchange rate to use on initial recognition of the related 
asset, expense or income (or part of it) on the derecognition 
of a non-monetary asset or non-monetary liability relating 
to advance consideration, the date of the transaction is 
the date on which and entity initially recognises the non-
monetary asset or non-monetary liability arising from the 
advance consideration. If there are multiple payments 
or receipts in advance, then the entity must determine a 
date of the transaction for each payment or receipt of 
advance consideration.

Standards and Interpretations in issue not yet adopted:

AASB 16 ‘Leases’

AASB 2017-6 ‘Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – 
Prepayment Features with Negative Compensation’

AASB 2017-7 ‘Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards –  
Long-term Interests in Associates and Joint Ventures’

AASB 2018-1 ‘Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – 
Annual Improvements 2015-2017 Cycle’

AASB Interpretation 23 ‘Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments, 
and relevant amending standards’

Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting

AASB 17 ‘Insurance Contracts’

AASB 2014-10 ‘Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – 
Sale of Contribution of Assets between an Investor and its Associate 
or Joint Venture’

Effective for annual 
reporting periods 
beginning on or after

Expected to be 
initially applied in the 
financial year ending

1 January 2019

1 January 2019

30 June 2020

30 June 2020

1 January 2019

30 June 2020

1 January 2019

30 June 2020

1 January 2019

30 June 2020

1 January 2020

1 January 2021

1 January 2022

30 June 2021

30 June 2022

30 June 2023

64

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continuedOperating cash flows will increase and financing cash 
flows decrease by approximately $15,772,000 as 
repayment of the principal portion of the lease liabilities 
will be classified as cash flows from financing activities.

The Consolidated Group expects that lease payments 
will decrease by approximately $15,772,000 and 
amortisation of right-of-use assets and interest from 
the associated lease liability will increase by between 
$16,750,000 and $17,500,000 for the 2020 financial 
year. A significant portion of these items relate to 
the growing and harvesting of biological assets and 
will be recognised in the income statement in future 
periods as the biological assets are harvested and sold. 
Therefore, the amount that will be recognised in the 
income statement in the 2020 financial year cannot 
be quantified.

The Consolidated Group’s activities as a lessor are 
not material and hence the Consolidated Group does 
not expect and significant impact on the financial 
statements. However, some additional disclosures will 
be required from next year.

There are no other standards or interpretations that are not 
yet effective and that would be expected to have a material 
impact on the entity in the current or future reporting periods 
and on foreseeable future transactions.

The Consolidated Group’s assessment of the impact of these 
new standards and interpretations is set out below:

AASB 16 Leases
AASB 16 was issued in February 2016 and is effective 
for the Consolidated Group for the year ended 30 June 
2020. It will result in almost all leases being recognised 
on the balance sheet by lessees, as the distinction 
between operating and finance leases is removed. 
Under the new standard, an asset (the right to use the 
leased item) and a financial liability to pay rentals are 
recognised. The only exceptions are short-term and 
low-value leases.

The group has set up a project team which has reviewed 
all of the Consolidated Group’s leasing arrangements 
in light of the new lease accounting rules in AASB 16. 
The standard will affect primarily the accounting for the 
Consolidated Group’s operating leases.

The Consolidated Group will apply the standard 
from its mandatory adoption date of 1 July 2019. The 
Consolidated Group intends to apply the simplified 
transition approach and will not restate comparative 
amounts for the year prior to first adoption. The group 
has assessed its accounting policies that may interact 
with AASB 16 however certain judgemental aspects 
remain open, including application of the Incremental 
Borrowing Rate. As a result, an indicative range of the 
financial impact from adoption of the new accounting 
standard is presented below.

As at the reporting date, the group has non-cancellable 
operating lease commitments of $232,565,000, 
see note 9. Of these commitments, approximately 
$130,265,000 relate to lease commitments where 
conditions for recognising the right-of-use asset and 
associated financial liability are not met at 1 July 
2019. This is principally driven by the operating lease 
commitment entered into for the well-boat ‘Ronja Storm’ 
which is expected to be delivered during the 2020 
financial year. The amount also includes short-term 
leases and low value leases which can be recognised on 
a straight-line basis as expense in the income statement. 

For the remaining lease commitments, the Consolidated 
Group expects to recognise right-of-use assets of 
between $96,203,000 and $99,801,000 on 1 July 
2019, lease liabilities of between $98,313,000 and 
$99,801,000 (after adjustments for prepayments and 
accrued lease payments recognised as at 30 June 2019) 
and deferred tax assets of up to $633,000. Overall net 
assets will be up to $1,477,000 lower.

65

Performance

1. Revenue

2019
Segment Revenue

Revenue from external customers
Timing of revenue recognition

 At a point in time

2018
Segment Revenue

Revenue from external customers
Timing of revenue recognition

 At a point in time

Sale of Goods

Domestic
$’000

Export
$’000

258,073

258,073

258,073

258,073

258,842

258,842

258,842

258,842

23,882

23,882

23,882

23,882

59,054

59,054

59,054

59,054

Total
$’000

281,955

281,955

281,955

281,955

317,896

317,896

317,896

317,896

Revenue recognition and measurement

Sale of goods
The Consolidated Group hatches, farms, processes, markets and sells Atlantic salmon and ocean trout. Sales are recognised 
when control of the products has been transferred, being when the products are delivered to the customer.

Delivery occurs when the products have been delivered to their final destination, the risk of loss and obsolescence has been 
transferred and acknowledged by the customer.

Revenue from the sale of goods is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable after taking into account 
any trade discounts and volume rebates allowed.

All revenue is stated net of the amount of goods and services tax.

2. Other income

Interest income
Supplier rebates and freight income
Government grants

Other

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

7
4,943
1,370

2,938

9,258

356
5,534
724

4,133

10,747

Revenue recognition and measurement

Interest income
Interest  income  is  recognised  using  the  effective  interest  method.  When  a  receivable  is  impaired,  the  Consolidated  Group 
reduces the carrying amount to its recoverable amount, being the estimated future cash flow discounted at the original effective 
interest rate of the instrument, and continues unwinding the discount as interest income. Interest income on impaired loans is 
recognised using the original effective interest rate.

Rebates and freight income
Rebates  and  freight  income  are  recognised  as  income  when  the  right  to  receive  the  payment  has  been  established.  This  is 
generally when the Company has satisfied the necessary regulatory requirements.

66

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued2. Other income (continued)

Government grants
Government grants are assistance by the government in the form of transfers of resources to the Consolidated Group in return 
for past or future compliance with certain conditions relating to the operating activities of the Consolidated Group. Government 
grants  include  government  assistance  where  there  are  no  conditions  specifically  relating  to  the  operating  activities  of  the 
Consolidated Group other than the requirement to operate in certain regions or industry sectors.

Government grants relating to income are recognised as income over the periods necessary to match them with the related costs 
which they are intended to compensate. Government grants that are receivable as compensation for expenses or losses already 
incurred or for the purpose of giving immediate financial support to the Consolidated Group with no future related costs are 
recognised as income of the period in which it becomes receivable.

Government grants relating to assets are treated as deferred income and recognised in profit and loss over the expected useful 
lives of the assets concerned.

3. Profit for the year before tax

Profit before income tax from continuing operations includes the following items of revenue and expense:

(a)  Significant revenue and expenses
The following significant revenue and expense items are relevant in explaining 
the financial performance:
Revenue:
 –
 –
Expense:
 –
 –
 –

accrued employee incentives
legal fees
derivative contracts

supplier rebates and claims
insurance and supplier claims

(b)  Expenses
Gross Depreciation of non-current assets
Gross Amortisation of non-current assets

Total Gross depreciation and amortisation

Depreciation – net impact recognised in changes in inventories  
of finished goods and work in progress

Net depreciation and amortisation

Interest & fees
Interest rate swap

Total finance costs

Employee benefits expense
Share-based payment expense

Total employee benefits costs

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

426
1,623

–
1,249
(7)

614
3,175

(804)
1,177
(571)

29,879
441

30,320

24,014
441

24,455

(4,558)

209

25,762

24,664

6,001
2,173

8,174

68,812
551

69,363

3,659
–

3,659

57,474
830

58,304

Net (gain)/loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment

79

319

67

4. Biological assets

Biological assets at fair value(i)
Opening balance
Increase due to production
Decrease due to sales/harvest/mortality
Movement in fair value of biological assets

Closing fair value adjustment on biological assets
Total weight of live finfish at sea (kg 000’s)

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

169,361
273,557
(224,671)
(9,118)

188,015
224,968
(230,755)
(12,867)

209,129

169,361

26,558
16,886

35,676
12,960

(i)  

 Members  of  the  Consolidated  Group,  Huon  Aquaculture  Company  Pty  Ltd  and  Springfield  Hatcheries  Pty  Ltd  grow  fish  from  juveniles  through 
to harvest.

Fair value measurement

Recurring fair value measurements
Biological Assets

Total financial assets recognised at fair value

Recurring fair value measurements
Biological Assets

Total financial assets recognised at fair value

30 June 2019

Level 1
$’000

Level 2
$’000

Level 3
$’000 

Total
$’000

–

–

–

–

209,129

209,129

209,129

209,129

30 June 2018

Level 1
$’000

Level 2
$’000

Level 3
$’000 

Total
$’000

–

–

–

–

169,631

169,631

169,631

169,631

Fair value measurements using significant unobservable input 
The following table summarises the quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in level 3 fair value 
measurements:

Description

30 June 2019

30 June 2018

Biological assets at fair value ($’000)

209,129

169,631

Unobservable Inputs

Adjusted weight of live finfish for fair 
value measurement: 14,395 tonne

Adjusted weight of live finfish for fair 
value measurement: 10,714 tonne

Price per HOG kg $14.53 to $15.03

Price per HOG kg $14.86 to $15.36

Relationship of Unobservable  
Inputs to Fair value

Increase in price would increase  
fair value

Increase in price would increase  
fair value

68

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued4. Biological assets (continued)

Recognition and measurement

Biological assets include broodstock, eggs, juveniles, smolt and live finfish. Biological assets are measured at fair value less costs 
to sell in accordance with AASB 141. Where fair value cannot be reliably measured biological assets are measured at cost less 
impairment losses.

For broodstock, eggs, juveniles, smolt and live finfish below 1kg, these biological assets are measured at cost, as the fair value 
cannot be measured reliably. Live finfish between 1kg and 4kg are measured at fair value less cost to sell, including a proportionate 
expected net profit at harvest. Live finfish above 4kg are measured at fair value less cost to sell.

The valuation is completed for each year class of finfish, for each species and, each significant location and takes into consideration 
input based on biomass in sea, estimated growth rate and mortality. The market prices are derived from observable market prices 
(when available), achieved prices and estimated future prices for harvest finfish. The prices are reduced for harvesting costs and 
freight costs to market, to arrive at a net fair value at farm gate.

The change in estimated fair value is charged to the income statement on a separate line as fair value adjustment of biological 
assets.

Sensitivity analysis – Biological assets
Based on the market prices and weights utilised at 30 June 2019, with all other variables held constant, the consolidated group’s 
pre-tax profit for the period would have been impacted as follows:

 – A pricing increase/decrease of $0.10 would have been a change of $1,244,457 higher/lower (2018: $929,761)
 – A weight increase/decrease of 5% would have been a change of $1,327,840 higher/lower (2018: $1,783,821)

Critical accounting estimates
Biological assets are measured at fair value less costs to sell in accordance with AASB 141. Broodstock, eggs, juveniles, smolt 
and live fish below 1kg are measured at cost, as the fair value cannot be measured reliably. Biomass beyond this is measured at 
fair value in accordance with AASB 141, and the measurement is categorised into Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, as the input 
is an unobservable input. Live fish over 4kg are measured to fair value less cost to sell, while a proportionate expected net profit 
at harvest is incorporated for live fish between 1kg and 4kg. The valuation is completed for each year class of finfish, for each 
species and, each significant location.

The valuation is based on a market approach and takes into consideration inputs based on biomass in sea for each significant 
location,  estimated  growth  rates,  mortality  and  market  price.  There  is  no  effective  market  for  live  finfish  produced  by  the 
Consolidated Group so market price is determined on a model based on market prices for both salmon and trout, derived from 
observable market prices (when available), achieved prices and estimated future prices for harvest finfish.

5. Earnings per share (EPS)

Earnings per ordinary share
Basic (cents per share)(i)
Diluted (cents per share)(ii)

Consolidated
2019
cents per share

Consolidated 
2018
cents per share

10.82
10.82

30.21
30.21

(i)  

 Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to owners of the company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares 
of the company.

(ii)    Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to owners of the company by the weighted average number of ordinary 

shares outstanding including dilutive potential ordinary shares.

Weighted average number of ordinary shares used as the denominator in the calculation of EPS

Number for basic EPS 
Number for diluted EPS 

Earnings used as the numerator in the calculation of EPS

Earnings for basic EPS(i)
Earnings for diluted EPS(i)

2019 

2018

87,337,207
87,337,207

87,337,207
87,337,207

2019
$’000 

9,452
9,452

2018
$’000

26,387
26,387

(i)   Earnings used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share is as per net profit in the consolidated income statement.

69

6. Dividends

Fully paid ordinary shares
Final dividend for the year ended 30 June 2018 of 5 cents 
(2017 – 5 cents) per fully paid share
Interim dividend for the year ended 30 June 2019 of 3 cents 
(2018 – 5 cents) per fully paid share

Total dividends provided for or paid

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

4,367

2,620

6,987

4,367

4,367

8,734

On 29 August 2019 the Directors recommended a final ordinary dividend of $2,620,000 (3.0 cents per fully paid share) to be 
paid on 17 October 2019 out of retained earnings at 30 June 2019. The dividend will be 50% franked. The dividend has not 
been provided for in the 30 June 2019 financial statements.

Franking credits available for subsequent reporting periods based  
on a tax rate of 30% (2018: 30%)

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2017
$’000

8,794

8,794

15,977

15,977

The above amounts represent the balance of the franking account as at the end of the reporting period, adjusted for:

(a)   franking credits that will arise from the payment of the amount of the provision for income tax or the receivable of income tax 

refund after the end of year,

(b)  franking debits that will arise from the payment of dividends recognised as a liability at the reporting date, and

(c)  franking credits that will arise from the receipt of dividends recognised as receivables at the reporting date.

The consolidated amounts include franking credits that would be available to the Parent Entity if distributable profits of subsidiaries 
were paid as dividends.

Recognition and measurement

Provision is made for the amount of any dividend declared, being appropriately authorised and no longer at the discretion of the 
Consolidated Group, on or before the end of the reporting period but not distributed at the end of the reporting period.

70

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continuedInvestment in growth strategy

7. Property, plant and equipment

Land and buildings
Freehold land
Cost

Total land

Buildings
Cost
Accumulated depreciation

Total buildings

Total land and buildings

Plant and equipment
Plant and equipment
Cost
Accumulated depreciation

Total plant and equipment

Capital work in progress
Cost

Total capital work in progress

Leased plant and equipment
Cost
Accumulated depreciation

Total leased plant and equipment

Total plant and equipment

Total property, plant and equipment

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

5,294

5,294

5,256

5,256

67,084
(9,040)

58,044

63,338

42,690
(6,456)

36,234

41,490

392,531
(155,219)

305,948
(128,262)

237,312

177,686

19,736

19,736

67,147

67,147

–
–

–

–
–

–

257,048

244,833

320,386

286,323

71

7. Property, plant and equipment (continued)

Land and Buildings

Plant and Equipment

Freehold
$’000

Buildings
$’000

Plant and
equipment
$’000

Leased
plant and 
equipment
$’000

Capital
work in
progress
$’000 

Total
$’000

5,294
–

5,294

67,084
(9,040)

392,531
(155,219)

58,044

237,312

5,256
–
–

–
–
–
38

–

36,234
76
–

–
(2,585)
–
24,319

–

177,686
809
(269)

–
(27,294)
–
86,380

–

5,294

58,044

237,312

–
–

–

–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

–

19,736
–

484,645
(164,259)

19,736

320,386

67,147
–
–

63,326
–
–
(110,737)

286,323
885
(269)

63,326
(29,879)
–
–

–

–

19,736

320,386

Land and Buildings

Plant and Equipment

Freehold
$’000

Buildings
$’000

Plant and
equipment
$’000

Leased
plant and 
equipment
$’000

Capital
work in
progress
$’000 

Total
$’000

5,256
–

5,256

42,690
(6,456)

305,948
(128,262)

36,234

177,686

5,412
–
(156)
–
–
–
–
–

37,812
–
–
–
(2,091)
–
513
–

154,700
1,025
(315)
–
(21,923)
–
44,199
–

5,256

36,234

177,686

–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

67,147
–

421,041
(134,718)

67,147

286,323

25,205
–
–
86,654
–
–
(44,712)
–

223,129
1,025
(471)
86,654
(24,014)
–
–
–

67,147

286,323

Consolidated

Year ended 30 June 2019
Cost
Accumulated depreciation

Net carrying amount

Movement
Net carrying amount at the  
beginning of the year
Additions
Disposals and write-offs

Work In Progress Additions
Depreciation and amortisation
Acquisition in business combination
Capitalisation to asset categories

Transfers between classes

Net carrying amount at the  
end of the year

Consolidated

Year ended 30 June 2018
Cost
Accumulated depreciation

Net carrying amount

Movement
Net carrying amount at the  
beginning of the year
Additions
Disposals and write-offs
Work In Progress Additions
Depreciation and amortisation
Acquisition in business combination
Capitalisation to asset categories
Transfers between classes

Net carrying amount at the  
end of the year

72

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued7. Property, plant and equipment (continued)

Recognition and measurement

Property, 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 
Consolidated Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably.

Assets are derecognised when replaced. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the profit and loss during the period 
in which they are incurred.

Assets are depreciated on a straight line basis. Land is not depreciated.

The following estimated useful lives are used in the calculation of depreciation:

Class of Fixed Asset

Buildings
Leasehold improvements
Plant and equipment

Useful Life

10 – 40 years
5 – 20 years
2 – 30 years

The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at the end of each reporting period.

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.

Gains  and  losses  on  disposals  are  determined  by  comparing  proceeds  with  the  carrying  amount.  These  gains  or  losses  are 
recognised in consolidated income statement when the item is derecognised. When revalued assets are sold, amounts included 
in the revaluation surplus relating to that asset are transferred to retained earnings. 

8. Other non-current assets

Marine farming leases
Cost
Accumulated amortisation

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

16,244
(7,391)

8,853

16,244
(6,949)

9,295

Recognition and measurement

Marine farming leases are recorded at cost. Amortisation is based on the term of the lease and the expense is charged through 
the consolidated income statement. All marine leases are held for a term of 15–30 years.

73

9. Capital and leasing commitments

Non-cancellable operating leases
Not longer than 1 year
Longer than 1 year and not longer than 5 years
Longer than 5 years

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

24,376
101,908
106,281

14,612
64,714
79,954

232,565

159,280

The  group  has  operating  lease  commitments  relating  to  a  range  of  equipment,  the  most  significant  portion  relating  to  marine 
vessels. The commitments are principally driven by the operating lease entered into for the well-boat ‘Ronja Huon’ and well-boat 
‘Ronja Storm’.

Capital expenditure commitments
Plant and equipment
Capital expenditure projects

Payable:
Not longer than 1 year
Longer than 1 year and not longer than 5 years
Longer than 5 years

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

1,042
–

1,042

1,042
–
–

1,042

–
8,984

8,984

8,984
–
–

8,984

Recognition and measurement

Leases of fixed assets, where substantially all the risks and benefits incidental to the ownership of the asset – but not the legal ownership 
– are transferred to entities in the Consolidated Group, are classified as finance leases.

Finance leases are capitalised by recording an asset and a liability at the lower of the amounts equal to the fair value of the leased 
property or the present value of the minimum lease payments, including any guaranteed residual values. Lease payments are allocated 
between the reduction of the lease liability and the lease interest expense for the period.

Leased assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the lease term.

Lease payments for operating leases, where substantially all the risks and benefits remain with the lessor, are recognised as expenses 
on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Lease  incentives  under  operating  leases  are  recognised  as  a  liability  and  amortised  on  a  straight-line  basis  over  the  life  of  the   
lease term.

74

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continuedNet debt and working capital

10. Notes to the statement of cashflows

(a)   Cash and cash equivalents as at the end of the financial year  

as shown in the consolidated statement of cashflows is reconciled  
to the related items in the consolidated balance sheet as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents

(b)   Reconciliation of profit for the period to net cash inflow  

from operating activities:

Profit for the period
Non-cash items
  Depreciation and amortisation
  Net (gain)/loss on disposal of non-current assets

Share-based payment expense

(Increase)/decrease in assets

Trade and other receivables
Biological assets and inventories

  Current tax receivable

Prepayments

Increase/(decrease) in liabilities
Trade and other payables

  Current tax liabilities
  Deferred tax liabilities

Provisions
  Other liabilities

Net cash inflow from operations

Recognition and measurement

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

2,611

2,611

2,787

2,787

9,452

26,387

30,321
79
551

2,970
(40,181)
(1,578)
(4,198)

22,341
(6,432)
613
1,016
(464)

14,490

24,455
319
830

(3,639)
18,632
–
(1,881)

(16,179)
6,432
1,927
1,104
(463)

57,924

For the purpose of presentation in the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held 
at call with financial institutions, other short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are 
readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
11. Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables
Loss allowance
Other receivables

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

29,228
(304)
1,544

31,897
(296)
1,322

30,468

32,923

Recognition and measurement

Trade receivables include amounts due from customers for goods sold and services performed in the ordinary course of business. 
Receivables expected to be collected within 12 months of the end of the reporting period are classified as current assets. All 
other  receivables  are  classified  as  non-current  assets.  Trade  and  other  receivables  are  initially  recognised  at  fair  value  and 
subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any loss allowance.

Collectability of trade receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectable are written off by 
reducing the carrying amount directly. A loss allowance account is used when there is objective evidence that the Consolidated 
Group  will  not  be  able  to  collect  all  amounts  due  according  to  the  original  terms  of  the  receivables.  Significant  financial 
difficulties of the debtor, probability that the debtor will enter bankruptcy or financial reorganisation, and default or delinquency 
in payments (more than 30 days overdue) are considered indicators that the trade receivable is impaired. The amount of the 
impairment allowance is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, 
discounted at the original effective interest rate. Cash flows relating to short-term receivables are not discounted if the effect of 
discounting is immaterial.

The  amount  of  the  impairment  loss  is  recognised  in  consolidated  income  statement  within  other  expenses.  When  a  trade 
receivable for which an impairment allowance had been recognised becomes uncollectable in a subsequent period, it is written 
off against the allowance account. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against other expenses.

Fair values of trade and other receivables

Due to the short-term nature of the current receivables, their carrying amount approximates to fair value.

Credit risk

The  Consolidated  Group  has  no  significant  concentration  of  credit  risk  with  respect  to  any  single  counterparty  or  group  of 
counterparties other than those receivables specifically provided for and mentioned above. The main source of credit risk to the 
Consolidated Group is considered to relate to the class of assets described as ‘trade and other receivables’.

The  Consolidated  Group  applies  the  AASB  9  simplified  approach  to  measuring  expected  credit  losses  which  uses  a  lifetime 
expected loss allowance for all trade receivables.

To measure expected credit losses, trade receivables have been grouped based on shared credit risk characteristics and the days 
past due. The expected loss rates are based on historical loss rates, adjusted to reflect current and forward looking information. 
On this basis, the loss allowance as at 30 June 2019 and 1 July 2018 (on adoption of AASB 9) was determined as follows for 
trade receivables:

More than 
30 days 
past due

More than 
60 days 
past due

6.22%
530
33

6.28%
653
41

88.6%
202
179

42.49%
393
167

Current

0.38%
24,470
92

0.33%
26,955
88

Total

25,202
304

28,001
296

30 June 2019
Expected loss rate
Gross carrying amount – Trade and other receivables
Loss allowance

1 July 2018
Expected loss rate
Gross carrying amount – Trade and other receivables
Loss allowance

76

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued11. Trade and other receivables (continued)

No  adjustments  to  the  prior  year  loss  allowance  were  made  on  transition  to  AASB  9.  The  closing  loss  allowances  for  trade 
receivables as at 30 June 2019 reconcile to the opening loss allowances as follows:

Loss allowance – calculated under AASB 139
Amounts restated through opening retained earnings
Opening loss allowance as at 1 July 2018 – calculated under AASB 9
Increase in loss allowance recognised in profit or loss during the year
Receivables written off as uncollectable

Loss allowance at year end

12. Inventories

Processed fish & finished goods
Feed and packaging
Inventory provisions

Recognition and measurement

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

(296)
–
(296)
(48)
40

(304)

(242)
–
(242)
(54)
–

(296)

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

3,776
9,341
(307)

6,348
6,572
(523)

12,810

12,397

Inventories  are  measured  at  the  lower  of  cost  and  net  realisable  value.  The  cost  of  manufactured  products  includes  direct 
materials, direct labour and an appropriate portion of variable and fixed overheads. Overheads are applied on the basis of 
normal operating capacity. Costs are assigned on the basis of weighted average costs.

13. Other assets

Prepayments

14. Trade and other payables

Trade payables
Other payables
Goods and services tax (GST) payable

Recognition and measurement

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

9,168

9,168

4,970

4,970

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

67,315
5,115
–

72,430

48,466
3,845
–

52,311

Trade and other payables represent the liabilities for goods and services received by the Consolidated Group that remain unpaid 
at the end of the reporting period. The balance is recognised as a current liability with the amounts normally paid within 45 days 
of recognition of the liability.

Fair values of trade and other payables

Due to the short-term nature of trade and other payables, their carrying amount approximates to fair value.

77

15. Borrowings

Current
Secured

Finance lease liabilities
Bank Loans
  Other Loans
Unsecured
  Other loans

Non-current
Secured

Finance lease liabilities
Bank Loans
  Other Loans
Unsecured
  Other loans

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

–
6,157
3,495

–
36,851
2,291

–

18

9,652

39,160

–
131,696
–

46

131,742

141,394

–
44,913
–

48

44,961

84,121

The weighted average effective interest rate on the bank loans is 3.35% per annum (2018: 3.49% per annum).

Amortising Term Loan
Term Loan
Working Capital
Bank Guarantee
Uncommitted Term Loan
Uncommitted foreign exchange contracts
Uncommitted interest rate swaps

2019
$’000

2018
$’000

Limit

Undrawn
Balance

Limit

Undrawn
Balance

46,250
110,000
10,000
2,500
20,000

–
18,000
10,000
200
20,000
 – Discretionary
– Discretionary

–
55,000
24,000
50,000
5,000
6,000
200
2,500
–
–
– Discretionary
– Discretionary

Aggregate Facility Limit
Aggregate Undrawn Balance

188,750

113,500

48,200

29,200

78

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued 
 
 
 
15. Borrowings (continued)

The borrowings are secured by means of a charge over the Consolidated Group’s assets. The carrying amounts of assets pledged 
as security are as recognised in the Consolidated Group’s balance sheet.

The Consolidated Group has facility agreements (“Facilities”) in place with its key banking partners to source debt and working 
capital  funding.  The  Facilities,  together  with  certain  proceeds  from  the  issue  of  shares  under  the  Initial  Public  Offering,  are 
being utilised to fund operations and Huon’s Controlled Growth Strategy. The Facilities are reviewed periodically to maintain an 
optimal capital structure consistent with the Consolidated Group’s Capital Management strategy.

The Facilities have a variable interest rate on amounts drawn calculated at a variable rate by reference to the Australian dollar 
BBSY and are subject to line fees on drawn and undrawn facilities.

Facility Renewal:

The Consolidated Group entered into an agreement to refinance its debt facilities in October 2018. The total debt facility increased 
from $113,500,000 to $192,500,000 for a maximum of five years. In FY2019 there was amortisation without redraw of $3,750,000.

Loan covenants:

Under  the  terms  of  the  Facilities,  the  group  is  required  to  comply  with  certain  financial  covenants.  During  the  financial  year   
as part of the annual review of the Consolidated Group’s Facilities, the covenants were updated to the following:

 –
 –

 –

Equity Ratio (Tangible Net Worth/Total Tangible Assets) greater than 50% (measured annually on 30 June);
Leverage Ratio (Net Debt/Operating EBITDA) not greater than a maximum of 3.0 times at 30 June 2019 and 2.75 times 
for following periods (measured quarterly on a rolling 12 month basis);
Interest Cover Ratio (Operating EBITDA/Total Finance Costs) greater than 3.5 times (measured quarterly on a rolling 
12 month basis); and

 – Actual capital expenditure not more than 110% of the annual capital expenditure budget approved by financiers.

The group complied with the financial covenants throughout the reporting period.

Recognition and measurement
Borrowings  are  initially  recognised  at  fair  value,  net  of  transaction  costs  incurred.  Borrowings  are  subsequently  measured 
at amortised cost. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption amount is recognised 
in  consolidated  income  statement  over  the  period  of  the  borrowings  using  the  effective  interest  method.  Fees  paid  on  the 
establishment of loan facilities are recognised as transaction costs of the loan to the extent that it is probable that some or all of 
the facility will be drawn down. In this case, the fee is deferred until the draw down occurs. To the extent there is no evidence that 
it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down, the fee is capitalised as a prepayment for liquidity services and 
amortised over the period of the facility to which it relates.

Borrowings are removed from the balance sheet when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired. 
The difference between the carrying amount of a financial liability that has been extinguished or transferred to another party and 
the consideration paid, including any non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed, is recognised in consolidated income 
statement as other income or finance costs.

Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the Consolidated Group has an unconditional right to defer settlement of 
the liability for at least 12 months after the reporting period.

Borrowing Costs

General and specific borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying 
asset are capitalised during the period of time that is required to complete and prepare the asset for its intended use or sale. 
Qualifying assets are assets that necessarily take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale.

All other borrowing costs are recognised in consolidated income statement in the period in which they are incurred.

79

16. Issued capital

Consolidated
2019 

Consolidated 
2018

No.

$’000

No.

$’000

(a)  Ordinary share capital (fully paid):
Ordinary shares

87,337,207

164,302

87,337,207

164,302

The Company has authorised share capital amounting to 87,337,207 ordinary shares of no par value.

2019

2018

Note

No.

$’000

No.

$’000

(b)  Movements in ordinary share capital
At the beginning of the reporting period
Share subdivision
Issue of new shares

Less: Transaction costs arising on share issues

(i)

87,337,207
–
–
–

164,302
–
–
–

87,337,207
–
–
–

164,302
–
–
–

At the end of the reporting period

87,337,207

164,302

87,337,207

164,302

(i)  Ordinary shares have no par value and the Company does not have a limited amount of authorised capital.

Ordinary shares participate in dividends and the proceeds on winding up of the Parent Entity in proportion to the number  
of shares held.

The voting rights attaching to ordinary shares are, on a show of hands every member present at a meeting in person or by 
proxy shall have one vote, and upon a poll each share shall have one vote.

There are no unquoted equity securities on issue.

There is no current on-market buy-back in respect of the Company’s ordinary shares.

(c)  Capital Management
Management  controls  the  capital  of  the  Consolidated  Group  in  order  to  maintain  a  good  debt  to  equity  ratio,  provide  the 
shareholders  with  adequate  returns  and  ensure  that  the  Consolidated  Group  can  fund  its  operations  and  continue  as  a   
going concern.

The Consolidated Group’s debt and capital include ordinary share capital and financial liabilities, supported by financial assets.

There are no externally imposed capital requirements.

Management effectively manages the Consolidated Group’s capital by assessing the Consolidated Group’s financial risks and 
adjusting its capital structure in response to changes in these risks and in the market. These responses include the management 
of debt levels, distributions to shareholders and share issues.

There have been no changes in the strategy adopted by management to control the capital of the Consolidated Group since 
the prior year.

80

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued16. Issued capital (continued)

Total borrowings
Less cash and cash equivalents

Net debt

Total equity

Gearing ratio

Recognition and measurement

Ordinary shares are classified as equity.

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

141,394
(2,611)

138,783

84,121
(2,787)

81,334

314,120

311,705

44.2%

26.1%

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.

Where any group company purchases the Company’s equity instruments, for example as the result of a share buy-back or a 
share based payment plan, the consideration paid, including any directly attributable incremental costs (net of income taxes) is 
deducted from equity attributable to the owners of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited as ordinary share capital until the shares 
are cancelled or reissued. Where such ordinary shares are subsequently reissued, any consideration received, net of any directly 
attributable incremental transaction costs and the related income tax effects, is included in equity attributable to the owners of 
Huon Aquaculture Group Limited.

17. Other reserves

Share-based payment reserve

Balance at the beginning of financial year
Shares issued under employee share plan
Share-based payment expense

Balance at the end of financial year

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

1,374
(601)
551

1,324

544
–
830

1,374

The share-based payment reserve is used to recognise the grant date fair value of performance rights issued to employees. 

The performance rights are issued to the Chief Executive Officer and Management as part of the LTI plan. Refer to note 26  
for further details.

81

Other

18. Financial assets

Investment in Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania Pty Ltd (“Saltas”)(i)
Investment in Commercial Fishermans Co-operative

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

1,341
1

1,342

1,341
1

1,342

(i)  The Consolidated Group holds ordinary share capital of Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania Pty Ltd (“Saltas”).

The directors of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited do not believe that the Consolidated Group is able to exert significant influence 
over Saltas.

Recognition and Measurement 

Investments are initially recorded at cost or fair value. Individual investments are assessed for any impairment in value.

19. Other financial assets

Derivatives carried at fair value
Foreign currency forward contracts
Commodity forward contract

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

–
56

56

571
–

571

Refer to note 20 for fair value measurement and hierarchy.

20. Fair value measurements

The Consolidated Group measures and recognises the following assets at fair value on a recurring basis after initial recognition:

 –

Biological assets (refer to note 4)

The Consolidated Group does not subsequently measure any liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis, or any assets or liabilities 
at fair value on a non-recurring basis.

Fair value hierarchy

AASB  13  requires  the  disclosure  of  fair  value  information  by  level  of  the  fair  value  hierarchy,  which  categorises  fair  value 
measurements into one of three possible levels based on the lowest level that an input that is significant to the measurement can 
be categorised into as follows:

Level 1:   Measurements based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can 

access at the measurement date.

Level 2:   Measurements based on inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, 

either directly or indirectly.

Level 3:   Measurements based on unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

The  fair  values  of  assets  and  liabilities  that  are  not  traded  in  an  active  market  are  determined  using  one  or  more  valuation 
techniques. These valuation techniques maximise, to the extent possible, the use of observable market data. If all significant 
inputs required to measure fair value are observable, the asset or liability is included in Level 2. If one or more significant inputs 
are not based on observable market data, the asset or liability is included in Level 3. 

82

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued20. Fair value measurements (continued)

Valuation techniques
The Consolidated Group selects a valuation technique that is appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data is 
available to measure fair value. The availability of sufficient and relevant data primarily depends on the specific characteristics 
of the asset or liability being measured.

There has been no change in the valuation technique(s) used to calculate the fair values disclosed in the financial statements. 

There has been no transfers between the fair value measurement levels during the financial year.

Recognition and measurement

Financial instruments
The Consolidated Group enters into a variety of derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to foreign exchange 
rate risk, including forward foreign exchange contracts. The derivative financial instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting. 
Changes in the fair value of the derivative financial instruments are recognised immediately in consolidated income statement.

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.

From 1 July 2018, the Consolidated Group classifies its financial assets in the following measurement categories:

 –
 –

those to be measured subsequently at fair value (either through OCI or through profit or loss), and 
those to be measured at amortised cost. 

The classification depends on the entity’s business model for managing the financial assets and the contractual terms of the 
cash flows.

For assets measured at fair value, gains and losses will either be recorded in profit or loss or OCI. For investments in equity 
instruments that are not held for trading, this will depend on whether the Consolidated Group has made an irrevocable election 
at the time of initial recognition to account for the equity investment at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI).

The Consolidated Group reclassifies debt investments when and only when its business model for managing those assets changes

Recognition and derecognition 
Regular way purchases and sales of financial assets are recognised on trade-date, the date on which the Consolidated Group 
commits to purchase or sell the asset. Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the financial 
assets have expired or have been transferred and the Consolidated Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards 
of ownership. 

Measurement 
At initial recognition, the Consolidated Group measures a financial asset at its fair value plus, in the case of a financial asset not 
at fair value through profit or loss (FVPL), transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset. 
Transaction costs of financial assets carried at FVPL are expensed in profit or loss.

Financial assets with embedded derivatives are considered in their entirety when determining whether their cash flows are solely 
payment of principal and interest.

Debt instruments
Subsequent measurement of debt instruments depends on the Consolidated Group’s business model for managing the asset 
and the cash flow characteristics of the asset. There are three measurement categories into which the group classifies its debt 
instruments:

 – Amortised cost: Assets that are held for collection of contractual cash flows where those cash flows represent solely 

payments of principal and interest are measured at amortised cost. Interest income from these financial assets is included 
in finance income using the effective interest rate method. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition is recognised directly in 
profit or loss and presented in other gains/(losses) together with foreign exchange gains and losses. Impairment losses are 
presented as separate line item in the statement of profit or loss. 
FVOCI: Assets that are held for collection of contractual cash flows and for selling the financial assets, where the assets’ 
cash flows represent solely payments of principal and interest, are measured at FVOCI. Movements in the carrying amount 
are taken through OCI, except for the recognition of impairment gains or losses, interest income and foreign exchange 
gains and losses which are recognised in profit or loss. When the financial asset is derecognised, the cumulative gain or 
loss previously recognised in OCI is reclassified from equity to profit or loss and recognised in other gains/(losses). Interest 
income from these financial assets is included in finance income using the effective interest rate method. Foreign exchange 
gains and losses are presented in other gains/(losses) and impairment expenses are presented as separate line item in the 
statement of profit or loss. 
FVPL: Assets that do not meet the criteria for amortised cost or FVOCI are measured at FVPL. A gain or loss on a debt 
investment that is subsequently measured at FVPL is recognised in profit or loss and presented net within other gains/(losses) 
in the period in which it arises. 

 –

 –

83

20. Fair value measurements (continued)

Impairment
From 1 July 2018, the Consolidated Group assesses on a forward looking basis the expected credit losses associated with its 
debt instruments carried at amortised cost and FVOCI. The impairment methodology applied depends on whether there has 
been a significant increase in credit risk.

For trade receivables, the Consolidated Group applies the simplified approach permitted by AASB 9, which requires expected 
lifetime losses to be recognised from initial recognition of the receivables, see note 11 for further details.

The Consolidated Group has applied AASB 9 retrospectively, but has elected not to restate comparative information. As a result, 
the  comparative  information  provided  continues  to  be  accounted  for  in  accordance  with  the  Consolidated  Group’s  previous 
accounting policy. 

21. Financial risk management

The Consolidated Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including currency risk, interest rate risk and 
price risk), credit risk and liquidity risk. The Consolidated Group’s overall risk management program focuses on the unpredictability 
of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the financial performance of the Consolidated Group. The 
Consolidated Group uses derivative financial instruments such as foreign exchange contracts and interest rate swaps to manage 
certain risk exposures. i.e. not used as trading or other speculative instruments. The Consolidated 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, foreign 
exchange and other price risks, aging analysis for credit risk and beta analysis in respect of investment portfolios to determine 
market risk.

Risk management is carried out under policies approved by the Board.

The Consolidated Group holds the following financial instruments:

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

2,611
30,468
56

33,135

72,430
141,394
2,222

2,787
32,923
571

36,281

52,311
84,121
–

216,046

136,432

Financial Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Derivative financial instruments

Total Financial Assets

Financial Liabilities
Trade and other payables
Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments

Total Financial Liabilities

84

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued21. Financial risk management (continued)

(a) Credit risk
Credit risk is managed on a Consolidated Group basis. Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents, favourable derivative
financial instruments and deposits with banks exposures to wholesale, commercial and retail customers, including outstanding
receivables and committed transactions.

Credit risk also arises in relation to financial guarantees given to certain parties (see notes 22 and 27(c)(ii) for details). Such 
guarantees are only provided in exceptional circumstances and are subject to specific Board approval.

(b) Liquidity risk
Management monitors rolling forecasts of the Consolidated Group’s liquidity reserve (comprising the undrawn borrowing facilities
below) and cash and cash equivalents (note 10) on the basis of expected cash flows.

Financing arrangements
The Consolidated Group had access to the following undrawn borrowing facilities at the end of the reporting period:

Floating rate
Expiring within one year (bank loans)
Expiring beyond one year (bank loans)

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

15,000
13,000

28,000

5,000
24,000

29,000

Maturities of financial liabilities
The table below analyses the Consolidated Group’s financial liabilities into relevant maturity groupings as follows:

(a) based on their contractual maturities:

(i) all non derivative financial liabilities

(ii)   net and gross settled derivative financial instruments for which the contractual maturities are essential for an understanding 

of the timing of cash flows.

(b) based on the remaining period to the expected settlement date:

(i)

 derivative financial liabilities for which the contractual maturities are not essential for an understanding of the timing of
cash flows.

The amounts disclosed in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows. Balances due within 12 months equal their 
carrying balances as the impact of discounting is not significant.

Contractual maturities of financial liabilities

Within 
1 year 
$’000 

1 to 5 
years 
$’000

Over 
5 years 
$’000 

Total
$’000

Carrying 
Amount
$’000 

At 30 June 2019
NON DERIVATIVES
Borrowings
Trade and other payables

Total expected outflows

DERIVATIVES
Net settled (forward foreign exchange contracts)
– (inflow)
– outflow

Total expected (inflow)/outflow

13,454
72,430

144,779
–

85,884

144,779

(56) 
772 

716

–
1,450

1,450

–
–

–

–
–

–

158,233
72,430

141,394
72,430

230,663

213,824

(56)
2,222

2,166

(56)
2,222

2,166

85

21. Financial risk management (continued)

Contractual maturities of financial liabilities

Within 
1 year 
$’000 

1 to 5 
years 
$’000

Over 
5 years 
$’000 

Total
$’000

Carrying 
Amount
$’000 

At 30 June 2018
NON DERIVATIVES
Borrowings
Trade and other payables

Total expected outflows

DERIVATIVES
Net settled (forward foreign exchange contracts)
– (inflow)
– outflow

Total expected (inflow)/outflow

(c)  Market risk management

40,716
52,311

93,027

47,572
–

47,572

(571)
–

(571)

–
–

–

–
–

–

–
–

–

88,288
52,311

84,121
52,311

140,599

136,432

(571)
–

(571)

(571)
–

(571)

INTEREST RATE RISK MANAGEMENT

(i) 
The  Consolidated  Group’s  main  interest  rate  risk  arises  from  long-term  borrowings  with  variable  rates,  which  expose  the 
Consolidated Group to cash flow interest rate risk. Group policy is to maintain up to 50% of its borrowings at fixed rate using 
floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps to achieve this when necessary. Generally, the Consolidated Group enters into long-term 
borrowings  at  floating  rates  and  swaps  them  into  fixed  rates  that  are  lower  than  those  available  if  the  Consolidated  Group 
borrowed at fixed rates directly.

At 30 June 2019: 98% (2018: 97%) of Consolidated Group debt is floating. The Consolidated Group also manages interest rate 
risk by ensuring that, whenever possible, payables are paid within any pre-agreed credit terms.

The net effective variable interest rate borrowings (i.e. unhedged debt) expose the Consolidated Group to interest rate risk which 
will impact future cash flows and interest charges and is indicated by the following floating interest rate financial liabilities:

The following table details the notional principle amounts at the end of the reporting period.

Floating rate instruments
Bank Loans

Weighted average  
interest rate

Consolidated notional 
principal value

2019
% 

2018
%

2019
$’000

2018
$’000

3.35%

3.49%

138,250

138,250

82,000

82,000

86

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued21. Financial risk management (continued)

Interest rate sensitivity analysis
Profit or loss is sensitive to higher/ lower interest income from cash and cash equivalents, and higher/ lower interest expense on 
variable rate borrowings as a result of changes in interest rates. Other components of equity change as a result of an increase/ 
decrease in the fair value of the cash flow hedges through other comprehensive income.

Interest rates – increase by 50 basis points
Interest rates – decrease by 50 basis points

Impact on  
post-tax profit

2019
$’000

348
(348)

2018
$’000

(311)
311

(ii)  FOREIGN EXCHANGE RISK
The Consolidated Group operates internationally and is exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currency exposures, 
predominantly with respect to the US Dollar and Japanese Yen.

Foreign  exchange  risk  arises  when  future  commercial  transactions  and  recognised  financial  assets  and  financial  liabilities  are 
denominated in a currency that is not the entity’s functional currency. The risk is measured using sensitivity analysis and cash flow 
forecasting.

The Consolidated Group hedges its foreign exchange risk exposure arising from future commercial transactions and recognised 
assets and liabilities using forward contracts. The Consolidated Group’s risk management policy is to hedge between 75% – 125% 
of cash flows arising from known inventory purchase commitments, mainly denominated in US dollars for the subsequent six months.

The Consolidated Group’s exposure to foreign currency risk at the end of the reporting period, expressed in Australian dollar, was 
as follows:

Trade payables (import creditors)
Forward exchange contracts
Buy foreign currency (cash flow hedges)
Sell foreign currency (cash flow hedges)

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

24,470

15,887

12,088
11,742

12,984
6,167

Consolidated Group sensitivity
Based on the financial instruments held at 30 June 2019, had the Australian dollar strengthened/weakened by 10% against the 
US dollar and the Japanese Yen with all other variables held constant, the Consolidated Group’s pre-tax profit for the period 
would have been $167,204 lower/$38,502 lower (2018: $1,536,863 higher/$1,108,976 lower), mainly as a result of foreign 
exchange gains/losses on translation of US dollar and JPY Yen denominated financial instruments as detailed in the above table.

87

21. Financial risk management (continued)

Recognition and measurement

Foreign Currency Transactions and Balances

FUNCTIONAL AND PRESENTATION CURRENCY
The functional currency of each group entity is measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which that 
entity operates. The consolidated financial statements are presented in Australian dollars which is the Parent Entity’s functional 
and presentation currency.

TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES
Foreign  currency  transactions  are  translated  into  functional  currency  using  the  exchange  rates  prevailing  at  the  date  of  the 
transaction. Foreign currency monetary items are translated at the year-end exchange rate. Non-monetary items measured at 
historical cost continue to be carried at the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items measured at fair 
value are reported at the exchange rate at the date when fair values were determined.

Exchange  differences  arising  on  the  translation  of  monetary  items  are  recognised  in  consolidated  income  statement,  except 
where deferred in equity as a qualifying cash flow or net investment hedge. 

Exchange differences arising on the translation of non-monetary items are recognised directly in other comprehensive income 
to  the  extent  that  the  underlying  gain  or  loss  is  directly  recognised  in  other  comprehensive  income,  otherwise  the  exchange 
difference is recognised in consolidated income statement.

(iii)  PRICE RISK
The Consolidated Group’s exposure to price risk arises from variations in fuel prices over the course of the year. Price risk arises 
when future transactions are forecast using a price that is variable to a number of market factors.

To manage the risk arising from fuel prices, the Consolidated Group enters into commodity derivatives, the value of which at year 
end is shown in note 19.

Consolidated Group sensitivity
Based on the financial instruments held at 30 June 2019, had the commodity prices strengthen/weakened by 10% with all other 
variables held constant, the Consolidated Group’s pre-tax profit for the period would have been $64,817 higher/$64,817 lower. 
No commodity derivatives were held in 2018.

88

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued22. Parent information

The following information has been extracted from the books and records of the parent and has been prepared in accordance 
with Australian Accounting Standards.

Statement of financial position
Assets
Current assets
Non-current assets

Total assets

Liabilities
Current liabilities

Total liabilities

Equity
Issued capital
Share-based payment reserve
Retained earnings
Dividends provided for or paid

Total equity

Financial performance
Profit/(loss) for the period

Total comprehensive income/(loss)

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

1,578
161,709

1
172,251

163,287

172,252

–

–

6,432

6,432

164,302
1,324
4,648
(6,987)

164,302
1,374
8,878
(8,734)

163,287

165,820

4,505

4,505

5,533

5,533

Parent Entity financial information

The financial information for the Parent Entity, Huon Aquaculture Group Limited, disclosed above has been prepared on the 
same basis as the consolidated financial statements, except as set out below. Huon Aquaculture Group Limited is the ultimate 
parent entity.

Transactions with related entities

The loss of the Parent Entity shown above is due to the recognition of expenditure in relation to performance rights limited to 
share-based remuneration.

Investments in subsidiaries, associates, and joint venture entities are accounted for at cost in the financial statements of Huon 
Aquaculture  Group  Limited.  Dividends  received  from  associates  are  recognised  in  the  Parent  Entity’s  consolidated  income 
statement when its right to receive the dividend is established.

89

22. Parent information (continued)

Tax consolidation legislation

Huon Aquaculture Group Limited and its wholly-owned Australian controlled entities have implemented the tax consolidation 
legislation.

The  head  entity,  Huon  Aquaculture  Group  Limited,  and  the  controlled  entities  in  the  tax  Consolidated  Group  account  for 
their own current and deferred tax amounts. These tax amounts are measured as if each entity in the tax Consolidated Group 
continues to be a stand alone taxpayer in its own right.

In  addition  to  its  own  current  and  deferred  tax  amounts,  Huon  Aquaculture  Group  Limited  also  recognises  the  current  tax 
liabilities (or assets) and the deferred tax assets arising from unused tax losses and unused tax credits assumed from controlled 
entities in the tax Consolidated Group. In the current year tax losses of $10,482,819 (tax effected at 30%) (2018: $11,557,574  
(tax effected at 30%)) have been assumed from controlled entities in the tax Consolidated Group.

The entities have also entered a tax funding agreement under which the wholly-owned entities fully compensate Huon Aquaculture 
Group Limited for any current tax payable assumed and are compensated by Huon Aquaculture Group Limited for any current tax 
receivable and deferred tax assets relating to unused tax losses or unused tax credits that are transferred to Huon Aquaculture 
Group  Limited  under  the  tax  consolidation  legislation.  The  funding  amounts  are  determined  by  reference  to  the  amounts 
recognised in the wholly-owned entities’ financial statements.

The amounts receivable/payable under the tax funding agreement are due upon receipt of the funding advice from the head 
entity, which is issued as soon as practicable after the end of each financial year. The head entity may also require payment of 
interim funding amounts to assist with its obligations to pay tax instalments.

Assets or liabilities arising under tax funding agreements with the tax consolidated entities are recognised as current amounts 
receivable from or payable to other entities in the Consolidated Group.

Any  difference  between  the  amounts  assumed  and  amounts  receivable  or  payable  under  the  tax  funding  agreement  are 
recognised as a contribution to (or distribution from) wholly-owned tax consolidated entities.

23. Deed of cross guarantee

The  wholly-owned  subsidiaries  disclosed  in  note  31  are  parties  to  a  deed  of  cross  guarantee  under  which  each  company 
guarantees the debts of the others. By entering into the deed, the wholly-owned entities have been relieved from the requirement 
to prepare a financial report and directors’ report under Instrument 2016/785 issued by the Australian Securities and Investments 
Commission.

The closed group financial information for 2018 and 2019 is identical to the financial information included in the consolidated 
financial statements. The wholly-owned subsidiaries became a party to the deed of cross guarantee dated 28 June 2016.

The companies disclosed in note 31 represent a ‘closed group’ for the purposes of the Instrument, and as there are no other 
parties to the deed of cross guarantee that are controlled by Huon Aquaculture Group Limited, they also represent the ‘extended 
closed group’.

90

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued24. Income tax

(a) Income tax recognised in profit or loss:
Tax (expense)/income comprises:
  Current tax (expense)/income

Adjustments for current tax of prior periods
Increase in deferred tax assets
Increase in deferred tax liabilities

Total tax (expense)

The prima facie tax on profit from ordinary activities before income tax 
is reconciled to the income tax expense as follows:
Profit from continuing operations before income tax expense
Prima facie tax payable on profit from ordinary activities before income tax 
at 30% (2018: 30%) for the Consolidated Group.

Adjustment recognised in the current year in relation to prior years:

Research and development tax credit

  Other
Non-tax deductible items

Income tax benefit/(expense)

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

1,578
4,871
11,161
(12,456)

5,154

(6,432)
4,196
(5,244)
3,321

(4,159)

4,298

30,546

(1,290)

(9,164)

6,448
–
(4)

5,154

5,012
–
(7)

(4,159)

The applicable weighted average effective tax rates are as follows:

(119.9%)

13.6%

(b) Income tax recognised directly in equity:
Deferred tax:

Share issue costs

(c) Current tax balances:
Current tax receivables comprise:
Income tax receivable attributable to:

Entities in the tax-Consolidated Group

Net current tax balance

Current tax liabilities comprise:
Income tax payable attributable to:

Entities in the tax-Consolidated Group

Net current tax balance

–

–

–

1,578

1,578

–

–

6,432

6,432

91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
24. Income tax (continued)

(d) Deferred tax balances: 

Taxable and deductible temporary differences, comprise of the following and arise from the following movements:

Charged
to income
$’000 

Adjustments
for current tax
of prior periods
$’000

2019

Gross deferred tax liabilities:
Biological assets
Property, plant and equipment
Trade and other receivables
Other non-current assets
Other financial assets

Gross deferred tax assets:
Provisions
Other financial assets
Trade and other receivables
Property, plant and equipment
Other intangibles
Share issue expenses
Tax Losses
Research and development
Borrowing costs
Share-based payments
Deferred Revenue
Trade and other payables

Opening
balance
$’000

(46,597)
(12,821)
(146)
(1,937)
(300)

(10,149)
(2,547)
61
133
46

(61,801)

(12,456)

2,379
–
(82)
185
3
335
–
–
3
412
866
123

305
–
174
(19)
–
(335)
10,483
–
7
(15)
(139)
700

4,224

11,161

Net deferred tax asset/(liability)

(57,577)

(1,295)

682

(58,190)

Charged
to income
$’000 

Adjustments
for current tax
of prior periods
$’000

2018

Gross deferred tax liabilities:
Biological assets
Property, plant and equipment
Trade and other receivables
Other non-current assets
Other financial assets

Gross deferred tax assets:
Provisions
Other financial assets
Trade and other receivables
Property, plant and equipment
Other intangibles
Share issue expenses
Tax Losses
Research and development
Borrowing costs
Share-based payments
Deferred Revenue
Trade and other payables

Opening
balance
$’000

(52,811)
(9,749)
(21)
(2,069)
(350)

(65,000)

2,048
–
276
197
3
680
537
3,315
8
163
1,005
1,118

9,350

Net deferred tax asset/(liability)

(55,650)

92

6,214
(2,950)
(125)
132
50

3,321

331
–
(358)
(12)
–
(345)
(659)
(3,315)
(1)
249
(139)
(995)

(5,244)

(1,923)

Closing
balance
$’000

(56,746)
(14,686)
(85)
(1,804)
(254)

(73,575)

2,684
–
92
166
3
–
10,493
–
–
397
727
823

15,385

Closing
balance
$’000

(46,597)
(12,821)
(146)
(1,937)
(300)

–
682
–
–
–

682

–
–
–
–
–
–
10
–
(10)
–
–
–

–

–
(122)
–
–
–

(122)

(61,801)

–
–
–
–
–
–
122
–
(4)
–
–
–

118

2,379
–
(82)
185
3
335
–
–
3
412
866
123

4,224

(4)

(57,577)

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued24. Income tax (continued)

Recognition and measurement

(Refer to note 22 for Tax Consolidation legislation)

The income tax expense/income for the year comprises current income tax expense/income and deferred tax expense/income.

Current income tax expense charged to the consolidated income statement is the tax payable on taxable income. Current tax 
liabilities/assets are measured at the amounts expected to be paid to/recovered from the relevant taxation authority.

Deferred income tax expense reflects movements in deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability balances during the year as well 
as unused tax losses. 

Huon Aquaculture Group Limited and its wholly-owned Australian controlled entities have implemented the tax consolidation 
legislation. As a consequence, these entities are taxed as a single entity and the deferred tax assets and liabilities of these entities 
are set off in the consolidated financial statements.

Current and deferred tax is recognised in consolidated income statement, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised 
in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In this case, the tax is also recognised in other comprehensive income or 
directly in equity, respectively.

Except  for  business  combinations,  no  deferred  income  tax  is  recognised  from  the  initial  recognition  of  an  asset  or  liability, 
excluding a business combination, where there is no effect on accounting or taxable consolidated income statement.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realised 
or  the  liability  is  settled  and  their  measurement  also  reflects  the  manner  in  which  management  expects  to  recover  or  settle 
the carrying amount of the related asset or liability. With respect to non-depreciable items of property, plant and equipment 
measured at fair value and marine leases, the related deferred tax liability or deferred tax asset is measured on the basis that 
the carrying amount of the asset will be recovered entirely through sale. When an investment property that is depreciable is held 
by the Company in a business model whose objective is to consume substantially all of the economic benefits embodied in the 
property through use over time (rather than through sale), the related deferred tax liability or deferred tax asset is measured on 
the basis that the carrying amount of such property will be recovered entirely through use.

Deferred tax assets relating to temporary differences and unused tax losses are recognised only to the extent that it is probable 
that future taxable profit will be available against which the benefits of the deferred tax asset can be utilised.

Where temporary differences exist in relation to investments in subsidiaries, branches, associates, and joint ventures, deferred 
tax assets and liabilities are not recognised where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference can be controlled and it 
is not probable that the reversal will occur in the foreseeable future.

Current tax assets and liabilities are offset where a legally enforceable right of set-off exists and it is intended that net settlement 
or simultaneous realisation and settlement of the respective asset and liability will occur. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are 
offset where: (a) a legally enforceable right of set-off exists; and (b) the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to income taxes 
levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities, where it is intended that net 
settlement or simultaneous realisation and settlement of the respective asset and liability will occur in future periods in which 
significant amounts of deferred tax assets or liabilities are expected to be recovered or settled.

The Group is subject to income taxes and is entitled to claims for certain tax deductions. Judgements and estimates are required 
in determining the provision for income taxes and claims for deductions. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different 
from  the  carrying  amounts,  such  differences  will  impact  the  current  and  deferred  tax  provisions  in  the  period  in  which  such 
determination is made.

Companies within the Consolidated Group may be entitled to claim special tax deductions for investments in qualifying assets 
or in relation to qualifying expenditure (e.g. the Research and Development Incentive regime in Australia). The Consolidated 
Group accounts for such allowances as tax credits, which means that the allowance reduces income tax payable and current tax 
expense. A deferred tax asset is recognised for unclaimed tax credits that are carried forward.

93

25. Key management personnel compensation

The totals of remuneration for key management personnel (KMP) of the Consolidated Group during the year are as follows:

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits
Long-term benefits
Termination benefits
Share-based payments

Consolidated
2019
$ 

Consolidated
2018
$ 

2,813,097
203,931
–
–
488,906

2,499,810
203,661
–
–
792,611

3,505,934

3,496,082

No remuneration was paid by the Parent Entity to the KMP.

26. Share-based payment

(a)  Share-based payment arrangements
The  Consolidated  Group  offers  the  Chief  Executive  Officer,  Executive  Management  Group  and  senior  management  the 
opportunity to participate in the Long-Term Incentive Plan (“the Plan”), which involves performance rights to acquire shares in 
Huon Aquaculture Group Limited. The Plan is designed to:

 –

 –

assist in the motivation, retention and reward of employees, including the Chief Executive Officer and members of 
management; and
align the interests of employees participating in the Plan more closely with the interests of shareholders by providing  
an opportunity for those employees to receive an equity interest in the Huon Aquaculture Group through the granting  
of performance rights.

Performance period
Under the Plan, performance rights were issued to the Chief Executive Officer and members of management as the LTI component 
of their remuneration. Performance rights granted under the LTI offer have the following vesting conditions:

 –
 –

50% of the performance rights will be subject to a vesting condition based on the Company’s earnings per share (EPS); and
50% of the performance rights will be subject to a vesting condition based on the Company’s return on assets (ROA)

If the specific performance criteria are satisfied, the Board has resolved to issue, or procure the transfer of Shares, or alternatively 
pay the cash amount of equivalent value, to Mr Bender and management on the vesting of those performance rights.

In the event that a performance right holder ceases to be an employee prior to the completion of the performance period due to 
a qualifying reason (i.e. other than for dismissal for cause) and such cessation occurs within the first twelve months of the grant 
of the performance rights, then the performance rights will be forfeited on a pro-rata basis for the number of months employed 
in the full year.

Performance rights that have vested may be exercised until the applicable expiry date. If any shares are issued following exercise 
of a vested performance right prior to the applicable expiry date then they may not be sold or transferred before three years after 
the beginning of the performance period.

94

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued26. Share-based payment (continued)

Number of Shares to be Allocated
The  percentage  of  performance  rights  that  vest  at  the  end  of  each  applicable  performance  period  will  be  determined  by 
reference to the following schedule:

Earnings Per Share (EPS) – 50% of LTI

EPS compound annual growth rate (‘CAGR’)

Less than 7.5% CAGR
7.5% CAGR
Above 7.5% CAGR but below 10% CAGR
10% CAGR or greater

Return On Assets (ROA) – 50% of LTI

ROA (return for the reporting period)

Less than 10% return
10% return
Above 10% return but below 15% return
15% return or greater

Vesting outcome

Nil
50%
Pro-rata from 50-99%
100%

Vesting outcome

Nil
50%
Pro-rata from 50-99%
100%

Earnings per share compound annual growth is calculated as the net profit after income tax (NPAT) (excluding adjustment for 
biological assets) divided by the weighted average number of ordinary shares on issue. Compared to an absolute profit measure, 
EPS takes into account changes in the equity base and for this reason it is preferred to other profit based metrics. 

Return on Assets (ROA) is calculated as statutory earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) (excluding adjustment for biological 
assets), divided by total assets excluding cash and fair value adjustment on biological assets (average of opening and closing 
balance). ROA is an appropriate measure for asset intensive industries which reinforces the need to invest capital on projects 
with a superior return. 

(b)  Performance rights granted
Set out below is a summary of performance rights granted under the LTI plan.

2019

Performance Period

Grant Date

From

To

Balance 
at Start 
of Year

Granted 
During 
Year

Other

Forfeited

Vested

Balance 
at End 
of Year

25-Nov-15
25-Nov-15
19-Oct-15
19-Oct-15
30-Nov-16
30-Nov-16
30-Nov-17
31-Oct-18

1-Jul-15
1-Jul-15
1-Jul-15
1-Jul-15
1-Jul-16
1-Jul-16
1-Jul-17
1-Jul-18

30-Jun-17
30-Jun-18
30-Jun-17
30-Jun-18
30-Jun-18
30-Jun-19
30-Jun-20
30-Jun-21

2018

Performance Period

Grant Date

From

To

25-Nov-15
25-Nov-15
19-Oct-15
19-Oct-15
30-Nov-16
30-Nov-16
30-Nov-17

1-Jul-15
1-Jul-15
1-Jul-15
1-Jul-15
1-Jul-16
1-Jul-16
1-Jul-17

30-Jun-17
30-Jun-18
30-Jun-17
30-Jun-18
30-Jun-18
30-Jun-19
30-Jun-20

30,136
32,360
32,561
34,964
110,424
144,340
210,429
–

Balance 
at Start 
of Year

–
47,834
–
60,783
157,111
157,111
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Other(i)

47,834
–
60,783
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
237,360

Granted 
During 
Year

–
–
–
–
–
–
210,429

–
–
–
–
–
(46,690)
–
–

(30,136)
(32,360)
(32,561)
(34,964)
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
110,424
97,650
210,429
237,360

Forfeited

Vested

Balance 
at End 
of Year

(17,698)
(15,474)
(28,222)
(25,819)
(46,687)
(12,771)
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

30,136
32,360
32,561
34,964
110,424
144,340
210,429

(i)  Amounts incorrectly shown as forfeited in the 2017 Report

FV per 
Share

$4.04
$4.04
$4.01
$4.01
$3.71
$3.71
$4.01
$4.26

FV per 
Share

$4.04
$4.04
$4.01
$4.01
$3.71
$3.71
$4.01

95

26. Share-based payment (continued)

(c)  Fair value of performance rights granted
For  the  performance  rights  granted  during  the  current  financial  year,  the  fair  values  were  measured  at  the  grant  date  of   
31 October 2018 for those granted to the Chief Executive Officer and to management.

The  fair  value  of  the  performance  rights  granted  under  the  Plan  was  calculated  using  the  Black-Scholes  option  pricing 
methodology. The fair value of these performance rights do not take into account the EPS and ROA hurdles being met, as they 
are non-market related vesting conditions.

The following were the key assumptions used in determining the valuation:

Share price at grant date
Dividend yield (per annum effective)
Risk free discount rate (per annum)
Expected price volatility
Term of performance right
Fair value of performance right

Chief Executive
Officer

Senior
Management

$4.54
2.1%
2.23%
43.7%
 1-3 years 
$4.26

$4.54
2.1%
2.23%
43.7%
 1-3 years 
$4.26

The expense recognised in relation to performance rights applicable to the Chief Executive Officer and management for the year 
ended 30 June 2019 is $551,261 (2018: $829,613).

Recognition and measurement

The Consolidated Group provides benefits to the Chief Executive Officer and certain management in the form of share-based 
payment, whereby services are rendered in exchange for rights over shares (performance rights). These benefits are provided as 
part of the Consolidated Group’s long-term incentive plan.

The fair value of the performance rights is recognised as an employee benefits expense, with a corresponding increase in equity. 
The total amount to be expensed is determined by reference to the fair value of the performance rights granted, which includes 
any market performance conditions and the impact of any non-vesting conditions, but excludes the impact of any service and 
non-market performance vesting conditions. Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number of 
performance rights that are expected to vest.

The total expense is recognised over the period in which the performance and/or service conditions are fulfilled (the vesting 
period), ending on the date on which the relevant employees become fully entitled to the award (the vesting date).

At the end of each reporting period, the Consolidated Group revises its estimates of the number of awards that are expected to 
vest based on the non-market vesting conditions. The impact of the revision to original estimates, if any, is recognised in profit 
or loss, with a corresponding adjustment to equity.

96

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued27. Related party transactions

Identity of related parties

The following persons and entities are regarded as related parties:

(a)  Controlled entities:

Refer to note 31 for details of equity interests in entities controlled by Huon Aquaculture Group Limited.

(b)  Key Management Personnel:

Directors and other Key Management Personnel (KMP) also include close members of the families of Directors and other KMP.
In  determining  the  disclosures  noted  below,  the  KMP  have  made  appropriate  enquiries  to  the  best  of  their  ability  and  the 
information presented reflects their knowledge.
All transactions entered into during the year were on normal commercial terms and conditions no more favourable than those if 
the entity was dealing with an unrelated party at on an arm’s length basis.

(i)  Compensation of KMP
Details of KMP compensation are disclosed in the Remuneration Report  
and in note 25 to the financial statements.

(ii)  Compensation of close family members
Other transactions

Short-term employee benefits

Superannuation Contributions

Consolidated
2019
$ 

Consolidated 
2018
$

289,172

284,570

Contributions to superannuation funds on behalf of employees 

24,182

24,355

(iii) Dividend revenue

Key Management Personnel

(iv) Purchases from entities controlled by Key Management Personnel
The group acquired the following goods and services from entities that are controlled  
by members of the group’s Key Management Personnel:

Land, Buildings and Property, Plant and Equipment
Leases of assets

(v)  Outstanding balances arising from sales/purchases of goods and services
Current Payables:

Entities controlled by close family members
Entities controlled by key management personnel

(c)  Investments
(i)  Purchase (sales) of goods and services

–

–

–
455,357

455,357

–
537,000

537,000

164,340
–

164,340

204,036
–

204,036

The Consolidated Group entered into transactions with Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania Pty Ltd for the supply of smolt (juvenile 
salmon)  and  the  sale  of  other  goods  and  services.  These  transactions  were  conducted  on  normal  commercial  terms  and 
conditions.

Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania Pty Ltd

(ii)  Financial guarantee contract

Consolidated
2019
$ 

Consolidated 
2018
$

2,237,632

1,719,355

During the 2012 financial year the Consolidated Group became party to a $7.02 million facility that Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania 
Pty Ltd entered into with BankWest through a financial guarantee contract. The facility was amended during the 2018 financial year. 
The Consolidated Group’s guarantee is for $0.98 million.

97

 
28. Remuneration of auditors

During  the  year  the  following  fees  were  paid  or  payable  for  services  provided  by  the  auditor  of  the  Parent  Entity,  its  related 
practices and non-related audit firms:

(a)  PricewaterhouseCoopers Australia
(i)   Audit and other assurance services

Audit and review of financial statements
Other assurance services 

Total remuneration for audit and other assurance services

(ii)  Taxation & other advisory services
Taxation & other advisory services
Other advisory services

Total remuneration for taxation and other advisory services

Total remuneration of PricewaterhouseCoopers Australia

(b)  Non PricewaterhouseCoopers firms
(i)   Audit and other assurance services

Other assurance services

Total remuneration for audit and other assurance services

(ii)  Taxation services

Taxation advisory services

Total remuneration for taxation services

(iii) Other services

Legal services

Total remuneration for other services

Consolidated
2019
$ 

Consolidated 
2018
$

200,000
6,000

206,000

200,000
7,800

207,800

114,922
–

114,922

40,800
–

40,800

320,922

248,600

–

–

81,073

81,073

33,096

33,096

567,309

567,309

–

–

–

–

Total remuneration of non-PricewaterhouseCoopers firms

33,096

648,382

The Parent Entity’s audit fees were paid for by Huon Aquaculture Company Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary.

98

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued29. Goodwill

Gross carrying amount
Balance at the beginning of financial year
Additions

Balance at the end of financial year

Accumulated impairment losses
Balance at the beginning of financial year
Impairment losses for the year

Balance at the end of financial year

Net book value
Balance at the beginning of financial year

Balance at the end of financial year

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

4,496
–

4,496

4,496
–

4,496

(1,601)
–

(1,601)

(1,601)
–

(1,601)

2,895

2,895

2,895

2,895

Goodwill  relates  to  the  Consolidated  Group’s  acquisition  of  the  wholly-owned  controlled  entities,  Huon  Ocean  Trout  Pty  Ltd, 
Southern Ocean Trout Pty Ltd, Morrison’s Seafood Pty Ltd, Meadowbank Hatchery Pty Ltd.

Recognition and measurement

Goodwill
Goodwill  acquired  in  a  business  combination  is  initially  measured  at  fair  value,  being  the  excess  of  the  cost  of  the  business 
combination over the acquirer’s interest in the net fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities recognised. 
Goodwill is subsequently measured at its deemed cost less any impairment losses. 

Goodwill is not amortised but is reviewed for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that they might be impaired. For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Consolidated 
Group’s cash-generating units expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. Cash-generating units to which goodwill 
has been allocated are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently when there is an indication that the unit may be impaired. 
If the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit is less than its carrying amount, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce 
the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the unit pro-rata on the basis of the carrying 
amount of each asset in the unit. An impairment loss recognised for goodwill is recognised immediately in consolidated income 
statement and is not reversed in a subsequent period.

Impairment testing is performed annually for goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives.

99

29. Goodwill (continued)

Impairment tests for goodwill

All goodwill relates to the domestic operating segment and is tested annually for impairment using a value-in-use calculation.

The calculation uses cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by the Board, over a 5 year period, before any 
fair value adjustments of biological assets.

The Directors and management have considered and assessed reasonably possible changes in key assumptions and have not 
identified  any  instances  that  could  cause  the  carrying  amount  of  the  Domestic  operating  segment  to  exceed  its  recoverable 
amount.

The following table sets out the key assumptions used in the calculations:

Quantity

Price

Production costs

Projections in line with, but below the expected industry growth rate of 10%.

In line with the last quarter of FY2019, but below current market prices.

Projections of conservative cost savings and recognising efficiencies post the 
Controlled Growth Strategy implementation.

Annual Capital Expenditure

Capital spend requirements estimated to meet growth projections.

Long-term growth rate

Pre-tax discount rates

This is the weighted average growth rate used to extrapolate cash flows beyond the 
budget period. The rates are consistent with forecasts included in industry reports.

Discount rates represent the current market assessment of the risks relating to the 
relevant segment.

In performing the value-in-use calculations for each cash-generating unit, the 
Consolidated Group has applied post-tax discount rates to discount the forecast future 
attributable post-tax cash flows. The equivalent pre-tax discount rates are disclosed in 
the table be-low. The movement in the pre-tax discount rates between 2018 and 2019 
reflect changes in the anticipated timing of future cash flows.

Long-term growth rate 
Pre-tax discount rate

2019

2018

3.0%
11.3%

3.0%
14.4%

Impairment of assets
At the end of each reporting period, the Consolidated Group assesses whether there is any indication that an asset may be impaired. 
The assessment will include considering external sources of information and internal sources of information, including dividends 
received from subsidiaries, associates or jointly controlled entities deemed to be out of pre-acquisition profits. If such an indication 
exists, an impairment test is carried out on the asset by comparing the recoverable amount of the asset, being the higher of the 
asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use to the asset’s carrying amount. Any excess of the asset’s carrying amount 
over its recoverable amount is recognised immediately in consolidated income statement, unless the asset is carried at a revalued 
amount in accordance with another Standard (e.g. in accordance with the revaluation model in AASB 116). Any impairment loss of 
a revalued asset is treated as a revaluation decrease in accordance with that other Standard.

Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Consolidated Group estimates the recoverable 
amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.

Critical accounting estimates
The Consolidated Group tests annually whether goodwill has suffered any impairment. The recoverable amounts of cash generating 
units have been determined based on value in use calculations. These calculations require the use of assumptions regarding gross 
margins growth rates and discount rates applicable to each CGU.

100

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued30. Other Intangible Assets

Gross carrying amount
Balance at the beginning of financial year
Additions

Balance at the end of financial year

Accumulated impairment losses
Balance at the beginning of financial year
Impairment losses for the year

Balance at the end of financial year

Net book value
Balance at the beginning of financial year

Balance at the end of financial year

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

100
330

430

–
–

–

100

430

100
–

100

–
–

–

 100 

 100 

Other intangible assets relate to hatchery establishment costs and trademarks. Additions during the 2019 financial year relate to 
the acquisition of rights to feeding systems software.

Licences and trademarks recognised by the Consolidated Group have an indefinite useful life and are not amortised. They are 
recorded at cost less any impairment.

Refer to note 29 for impairment tests for other intangible assets.

101

31. Interests in subsidiaries

The subsidiaries listed below have share capital consisting solely of ordinary shares, which are held directly by the Consolidated 
Group. The proportion of ownership interests held equals the voting rights held by the Consolidated Group. Each subsidiary’s 
principal place of business is also its country of incorporation or registration.

Ownership interest  
held by the  
Consolidated Group

Name of subsidiary

Principal place of business

Note

2019
%

Huon Aquaculture Company Pty Ltd
Springs Smoked Seafoods Pty Ltd
Springfield Hatcheries Pty Ltd
Huon Ocean Trout Pty Ltd
Huon Shellfish Co Pty Ltd
Huon Salmon Pty Ltd
Huon Smoked Seafoods Pty Ltd
Huon Smoked Salmon Pty Ltd
Huon Seafoods Pty Ltd
Huon Tasmanian Salmon Pty Ltd
Springs Smoked Salmon Pty Ltd
Southern Ocean Trout Pty Ltd
Morrison's Seafood Pty Ltd
Meadowbank Hatchery Pty Ltd

961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
32-36 Headquarters Road, South Springfield, TAS, 7260
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
961 Esperance Coast Road, Dover, TAS, 7117
2 Esplanade, Strahan, TAS, 7468
2 Esplanade, Strahan, TAS, 7468
2 Esplanade, Strahan, TAS, 7468

(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)
(i)

2018
%

100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%

Significant restrictions
There are no significant restrictions over the Consolidated Group’s ability to access or use assets, and settle liabilities, of the 
Consolidated Group.

The wholly-owned subsidiaries above are relieved from the Corporations Act 2001 requirements for the preparation, audit and 
lodgement of financial reports. Refer to note 23 for further details.

(i)  Subsidiary became a party to the deed of cross guarantee on 28 June 2016.

32. Other Financial Liabilities

Derivatives carried at fair value
Foreign currency forward contracts
Interest rate swap

Refer to note 20 for fair value measurement and hierarchy.

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

49
2,173

2,222

–
–

–

102

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued33. Provisions

Annual Leave
Long-Service Leave

2019
Current
$’000 

2019
Non-current
$’000 

5,444
2,137

7,581

–
1,365

1,365

 2019
Total
$’000

5,444
3,502

8,946

Carrying amount at start of year
Additional provisions recognised
Amounts used during the year

Carrying amount at end of year

2018
Current
$’000 

2018
Non-current
$’000 

4,820
1,752

6,572

–
1,358

1,358

Annual
leave
$’000 

Long-service
leave
$’000 

4,820
3,497
(2,873)

5,444

3,110
524
(132)

3,502

2018
 Total
$’000

4,820
3,110

7,930

 Total
$’000

7,930
4,021
(3,005)

8,946

Amounts not expected to be settled within the next 12 months
The current provision for employee benefits includes accrued annual leave and long service leave. For long service leave it covers 
all unconditional entitlements where employees have completed the required period of service and also those where employees 
are entitled to pro-rata payments in certain circumstances. The entire amount of the annual leave provision of $5,444 (2018: 
$4,820) is presented as current, since the Consolidated Group does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement for any 
of these obligations. However, based on past experience, the Consolidated Group does not expect all employees to take the 
full amount of accrued leave or require payment within the next 12 months. The following amounts reflect leave that is not to be 
expected to be taken or paid within the next 12 months.

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

Leave obligations expected to be settled after 12 months

6,302

5,285

Recognition and measurement

Provisions are recognised when the Consolidated Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past 
event, it is probable that the Consolidated Group will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made 
of the amount of the obligation.

The  amount  recognised  as  a  provision  is  the  best  estimate  of  the  consideration  required  to  settle  the  present  obligation  at 
reporting date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. Where a provision is measured using 
the cash flows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of those cash flows.

When some or all of the economic benefits required to settle a provision are expected to be recovered from a third party, the 
receivable is recognised as an asset if it is virtually certain that reimbursement will be received and the amount of the receivable 
can be measured reliably.

Employee Benefits
Short-term employee benefits

Provision  is  made  for  the  Consolidated  Group’s  obligation  for  short-term  employee  benefits.  Short-term  employee  benefits 
are  benefits  (other  than  termination  benefits)  that  are  expected  to  be  settled  wholly  before  12  months  after  the  end  of  the 
annual reporting period in which the employees render the related service, including wages, salaries and sick leave. Short-term 
employee benefits are measured at the (undiscounted) amounts expected to be paid when the obligation is settled.

The Consolidated Group’s obligations for short-term employee benefits such as wages, salaries and sick leave are recognised 
as a part of current trade and other payables in the statement of financial position.

103

33. Provisions (continued)

Other long-term employee benefits

Provision is made for employees’ long service leave and annual leave entitlements not expected to be settled wholly within 12 
months after the end of the annual reporting period in which the employees render the related service. Other long-term employee 
benefits are measured at the present value of the expected future payments to be made to employees. Expected future payments 
incorporate anticipated future wage and salary levels, durations of service and employee departures and are discounted at rates 
determined by reference to market yields at the end of the reporting period on corporate bond rates that have maturity dates that 
approximate the terms of the obligations. Upon the remeasurement of obligations for other long-term employee benefits, the net 
change in the obligation is recognised in consolidated income statement as a part of employee benefits expense. 

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

The Consolidated Group’s obligations for long-term employee benefits are presented as non-current provisions in its statement 
of financial position, except where the Consolidated Group does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 
12 months after the end of the reporting period, in which case the obligations are presented as current provisions.

34. Other liabilities

Deferred government grants
Current
Non-Current

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

464
1,960

2,424

464
2,424

2,888

During the 2015 financial year government grants of $5,000,000 were received relating to the Parramatta Creek Smokehouse 
and Product Innovation Centre. The nature of the grants related to both income and to assets. During the financial year $464,000 
(2018: $464,000) was recognised in the income statement. Future compliance with certain conditions relating to jobs creation 
could impact $1,237,000 of the deferred government grants amount.

35. Contingent liabilities and contingent assets

There are no contingent liabilities or contingent assets at the date of this Annual Financial Report.

104

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued36. Segment information

The chief operating decision maker for the Consolidated Group is the Chief Executive Officer of the Parent Entity. The Parent 
Entity determines operating segments based on information provided to the Chief Executive Officer in assessing performance 
and determining the allocation of resources within the Consolidated Group. Consideration is given to the Consolidated Group’s 
products, the manner in which they are sold, the organisational structure of the Consolidated Group and the nature of customers.

The Consolidated Group hatches, farms, processes, markets and sells Atlantic salmon and ocean trout. Revenue associated with 
exports meets the quantitative thresholds and management concludes that this segment is reportable.

Revenue from the sale of goods
Domestic market
Export market

Total revenue from the sale of goods

Results from segment activities
Domestic market
Export market

Total results from segment activities

Unallocated
Interest income
Other income
Depreciation – net impact in inventory
Other expenses

Operating EBITDA

Depreciation and amortisation expense
Finance costs
Fair value adjustment

Profit before income tax expense

Consolidated
2019
$’000 

Consolidated 
2018
$’000

Note

258,073
23,882

258,842
59,054

1

281,955

317,896

58,314
910

59,224

4,802
7
9,251
(4,558)
(21,374)

47,352

(25,762)
(8,174)
(9,118)

4,298

75,316
6,824

82,140

(1,064)
356
10,391
209
(20,296)

71,736

(24,664)
(3,659)
(12,867)

30,546

The total of the reportable segments’ profit, assets and liabilities is the same as that of the Consolidated Group as a whole and 
as disclosed in the consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income and the consolidated 
balance sheet.

All of the non-current assets are located in Australia being the domicile country of the Consolidated Group.

The chief operating decision maker only reviews export market sales.

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision 
maker.  The  chief  operating  decision  maker,  who  is  responsible  for  allocating  resources  and  assessing  performance  of  the 
operating segments, has been identified as the Chief Executive Officer.

37. Subsequent events

On 29 August 2019 the Directors recommended the payment of a final ordinary dividend of $2.6 million (3.0 cents per fully paid 
share) to be paid on 17 October 2019 out of retained earnings at 30 June 2019. The dividend will be 50% franked. The dividend 
has not been provided for in the 30 June 2019 financial statements.

38. Company details

The registered office of the company is:
Huon Aquaculture Group Limited 
Level 13, 188 Collins Street 
Hobart 
Tasmania 7000

The principal place of business is:
Huon Aquaculture Group Limited 
961 Esperance Coast Road 
Dover 
Tasmania 7109

105

Directors’ Declaration

In the directors’ opinion; 

(a)   The financial statements and notes set out on pages 57 to 105 are in accordance with the 

Corporations Act 2001 including:

a.   Complying with Accounting Standards, the Corporations Regulations 2001 and  

other mandatory professional reporting requirements; and

b.   Giving a true and fair view of the Consolidated Group’s financial position as at  

30 June 2019 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 31 will be able to meet any obligations or liabilities 
to which they are, or may become subject by virtue of the deed to cross guarantee described in 
note 23.

The Basis of Preparation note in the notes to the financial statements confirms that the financial 
statements also comply with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board. 

The directors have been given the declarations by the chief executive officer, deputy chief executive 
officer and the chief financial officer required by section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001. 

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

On behalf of the Directors

Neil Kearney  
Chairman  
29 August 2019

Peter Bender  
Managing Director and CEO  
29 August 2019

106

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Notes to the financial statements continued 
 
Independent auditor’s report

Independent auditor’s report 
To the members of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited 

Report on the audit of the financial report 

Our opinion 

In our opinion: 

The accompanying financial report of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited (the Company) and its 
controlled entities (together the Group) is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including: 

giving a true and fair view of the Group's financial position as at 30 June 2019 and of its financial 

performance for the year then ended 

complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001. 

What we have audited 
The Group financial report comprises: 















the consolidated balance sheet as at 30 June 2019

the consolidated income statement for the year then ended

the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year then ended

the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year then ended

the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended

the notes to the consolidated financial statements, which include a summary of significant
accounting policies

the directors’ declaration.

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. 

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  
2 Riverside Quay, SOUTHBANK VIC 3006, GPO Box 1331 MELBOURNE VIC 3001 
T: +61 3 8603 1000, F: +61 3 8603 1999, www.pwc.com.au  

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

107

Independent auditor’s report
continued

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. 

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. 

Materiality 

Audit scope 

Our audit focused on where the Group made 
subjective judgements; for example, significant 
accounting estimates involving assumptions and 
inherently uncertain future events. 

The Consolidated Group’s accounting processes 
are performed by a central finance function at the 
corporate head office in Hobart, where we 
predominately performed our audit procedures. 



For the purpose of our audit we used overall 
Consolidated Group materiality of $1.45 million 
which represents approximately 2.5% of the 
earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and 
amortisation (EBITDA) adjusted for the fair value 
adjustment for biological assets and averaged for 
the current and two previous financial years. The 
net depreciation and amortisation was used in 
our calculation as outlined in note 3(b) to the 
financial report. 





 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. 

 We chose EBITDA prior to any fair value 

adjustment for biological assets because, in our 
view, it is the metric against which the 
performance of the Consolidated Group is most 
commonly measured. An average was used due to 
fluctuations in EBITDA from year to year caused 
by a number of factors, which include (but are not 
limited to) environmental conditions and 
domestic and export pricing and demand. 



 We utilised a 2.5% threshold based on our 
professional judgement, noting it is within the 
range of commonly acceptable thresholds. 

108

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019  
 
 
 
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. 

Key audit matter 

Fair value of biological assets 
(refer to note 4) 

The Consolidated Group held biological assets of 
$209.1 million at 30 June 2019. The biological assets 
include broodstock, eggs, juveniles, smolt and live 
finfish. 

Australian Accounting Standards require biological 
assets to be measured at fair value less costs to sell or, 
in the absence of a fair value, at cost less impairment. 

The Consolidated Group has valued each of the 
biological assets. We considered the valuation of live 
finfish above 1kg to be a key audit matter due to the 
significant judgement involved in estimating: 

The total weight of live finfish at sea (based on 
number of fish and weight); 

•

•

•

expected mortalities of finfish prior to 
harvesting 

selling price per HOG/kg 

costs to sell of HOG/kg. 

The Consolidated Group considered the estimated 
harvest kgs of finfish based on historical data, growth 
rates, and mortality rates. The selling price per 
HOG/kg has been based on observable market prices 
(when available), achieved prices and estimated 
future prices for finfish. The costs to sell of HOG/kg 
has been based on selling costs (harvesting, 
processing and freight). 

How our audit addressed the key audit 
matter 

Our audit procedures in relation to the Consolidated 
Group’s fair value calculation of live finfish above 
1kg, included: 

 Considering the valuation methodology against 
the relevant Australian Accounting Standard. 

 Testing the mathematical accuracy of the 

calculations. 

 Assessing the historical accuracy of forecasting 

and estimation by comparing prior year estimate 
to actual performance. 

We performed the following procedures over 
specific valuation inputs; amongst others: 

Number and weight of live finfish at sea 

 We performed a reconciliation of the number of 
live finfish by obtaining the opening balance and 
comparing the known movements (fish intakes, 
harvest and mortalities for the year) to 
supporting documentation on a sample basis in 
order to assess the reasonableness of the number 
of live finfish at year end. 

 We assessed year end fish loss adjustments 

made to count or weight, if any, by comparing 
closing figures per Fishtalk to management’s 
June weight review to identify any manual 
adjustments made based on bathing data or 
close out of pens.  

 We assessed the weight assumption at 30 June 

2019 based on actual weights of finfish harvested 
subsequent to the year end and bath weight data 
recorded during the year (independently of the 
finance function). 

 We assessed the sensitivity of the calculations to 
changes in the Consolidated Group’s estimate of 
weight by applying other values within a 
reasonably possible range. 

Expected mortalities of finfish 

109

 
 
 
Independent auditor’s report
continued

Key audit matter 

Borrowings 
(refer to note 15) 

As 30 June 2019, the Consolidated Group recognised 
interest bearing debt of $141.4 million. Borrowings 
represent the largest liability on the balance sheet. 

In October 2018, the Consolidated Group refinanced 
its long-term debt facilities. Borrowings is a key 
number on the balance sheet and is an important 
funding mechanism. As a result, we consider 
accounting for borrowings to be a key audit matter at 
30 June 2019. 

How our audit addressed the key audit 
matter 

 We assessed the expected mortality percentages 
applied at year-end by comparing them to actual 
mortality rates recorded by the Consolidated 
Group over the year and subsequent to year end.  

Selling price per HOG/kg 
 We agreed the selling price per HOG/kg 

achieved over a 12 month period for domestic 
and export sales to customer invoices on a 
sample basis. 

 We compared the 12 month average selling price 
per HOG/kg for domestic and export sales to the 
price per HOG included in the calculation of fair 
value of finfish. 

 We compared the forecast volumes for domestic 
and export sales volumes to the Board approved 
forecast for the year ended 30 June 2020.  

 We assessed the sensitivity of the calculations to 
changes in the Consolidated Group’s estimate of 
selling price by applying other values within a 
reasonably possible range. 

Costs to sell of HOG/kg 
 We compared the estimated costs to sell to the 
actual costs incurred in the year, taking into 
account any known changes to such costs in the 
future. 

Our audit procedures included, but were not limited 
to: 
 Obtained external confirmations from the 

Consolidated Group’s financiers to confirm the 
balance of the borrowings. 

 Read the borrowing agreements and inspected 
correspondence between the Consolidated 
Group and its financiers to develop an 
understanding of the terms associated with the 
facilities, including financial covenants. 

 Compared the debt and maturity profile of the 

facility within the debt agreement to the 
classification of borrowings in the financial 
report at 30 June 2019. 

 Assessed the Consolidated Group’s evaluation 
that their borrowings are classified as non-
current at 30 June 2019. 

 Evaluated whether the disclosures were 

consistent with the requirements of Australian 
Accounting Standards. 

110

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019  
 
 
 
 
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 30 June 2019, but does not include the 
financial report and our auditor’s report thereon. 

Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and accordingly we do not 
express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report 

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. 

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. 

111

 
 
 
Independent auditor’s report
continued

Report on the remuneration report 

Our opinion on the remuneration report 

We have audited the remuneration report included in pages 35 to 47 of the directors’ report for the 
year ended 30 June 2019. 

In our opinion, the remuneration report of Huon Aquaculture Group Limited for the year ended 
30 June 2019 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 

Alison Tait 
Partner 

Melbourne 
29 August 2019 

112

Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Shareholder information

The shareholder information set out below was applicable as at 19 August 2019.

Voting rights

The voting rights attaching to ordinary shares fully paid are, on a show of hands every member present at a meeting in person 
or by proxy shall have one vote, and upon a poll each share shall have one vote.

Substantial shareholders

Substantial shareholders in the Company pursuant to notices lodged with the ASX in accordance with section 671B of the 
Corporations Act:

Ordinary shares

SURVEYORS INVESTMENTS PTY LTD ACN 602 004 179  
PETER JAMES BENDER  
Regal Funds Management Pty Ltd (RFM)
MR PETER BENDER & MRS FRANCES BENDER  
P & F BENDER SUPER PTY LTD 

FRANCES ROBYN BENDER (spouse of Peter Bender) Total Balance of register Grand total Distribution of securities Range 100,001 and Over 10,001 to 100,000 5,001 to 10,000 1,001 to 5,000 1 to 1,000 Total Number of shares 44,527,252 13,160,973 5,344,454 60,000 22,000 5,794 63,035,977 24,301,230 %IC 50.98% 15.07% 6.12% 0.07% 0.03% 0.01% 72.18% 27.82% 87,337,207 100.00% No. of Holders Securities % 12 92 109 487 1,029 82,824,727 2,092,323 827,789 1,197,288 395,080 94.83% 2.40% 0.95% 1.37% 0.45% 1,729 87,337,207 100.00% The number of holders of less than a marketable parcel of ordinary shares, equivalent to 112 ordinary shares, was 102 and they held 4,601 shares (based on a market price of $4.45 at the close of trading on 19 August 2019). 113 Shareholder Information continued Top 20 largest shareholders Rank Name SURVEYORS INVESTMENTS PTY LTD ACN 602 004 179 PETER JAMES BENDER J P MORGAN NOMINEES AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED UBS NOMINEES PTY LTD CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED HSBC CUSTODY NOMINEES (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED NATIONAL NOMINEES LIMITED CS THIRD NOMINEES PTY LIMITED WARBONT NOMINEES PTY LTD 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 WARBONT NOMINEES PTY LTD 11 BNP PARIBAS NOMS PTY LTD 12 ECAPITAL NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 13 NEWECONOMY COM AU NOMINEES PTY LIMITED <900 ACCOUNT> NETWEALTH INVESTMENTS LIMITED 14 15 MR MICHAEL GREGORY PETERSON & MS SAMANTHA ANNE WAKE BOSKENNA PTY LTD 16 MR PETER BENDER & MRS FRANCES BENDER 17 18 WALLBAY PTY LTD 19 20 MATRAVILLE INVESTMENT CO PTY LIMITED AVANTEOS INVESTMENTS LIMITED Total Balance of register Grand total Restricted equity securities There are no equity securities subject to restriction. Unquoted equity securities There are no unquoted equity securities on issue. 19 Aug 2019 %IC 44,527,252 13,160,973 8,145,009 4,724,794 4,166,172 3,826,633 1,389,246 1,387,394 500,000 492,036 290,418 214,800 89,548 75,565 69,200 60,000 59,000 55,000 50,000 50,000 83,333,040 4,004,167 50.98% 15.07% 9.33% 5.41% 4.77% 4.38% 1.59% 1.59% 0.57% 0.56% 0.33% 0.25% 0.10% 0.09% 0.08% 0.07% 0.07% 0.06% 0.06% 0.06% 95.42% 4.58% 87,337,207 100.00% On market buy-back There is no current on-market buy-back in respect of the Company’s ordinary shares. Managing shareholding online Shareholders are able to manage their shareholdings online through the Link Investor Centre which is available on the Investor section of the Huon website, http://investors.huonaqua.com.au/investors/?page=My-Shareholding. The Link Investor Centre can be contacted on 1300 554 474 or registrars@linkmarketservices.com.au. 114 Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Glossary of Terms $ AASB AASBs or Australian Accounting Standards or Accounting Standards Australian dollars Australian Accounting Standards Board Australian Accounting Standards AASB141 Relates to the fair value adjustment of biological assets required by AASB 141 ABS AGD ASIC ASX Australian Bureau of Statistics Amoebic Gill Disease, a fish disease that compromises gill function Australian Securities and Investments Commission ASX Limited (ABN 98 008 624 691) and, where the context requires, the Australian Securities Exchange operated by ASX Limited Atlantic salmon or salmon A fish in the family Salmonidae, which is typically found in the northern Atlantic Ocean and in rivers that flow into the north Atlantic Bender Family Biological assets Bonus Plan Peter Bender and Frances Bender, the founders of Huon and (as applicable) Surveyors Investments Pty Ltd (an entity controlled by Peter and Frances Bender) Farm animals that are classified as assets which, according to International Accounting Standards, must be recorded on balance sheets at their market value. Once the assets have either been slaughtered or harvested, then the assets will become agricultural produce A component of the LTI plan whereby the Board may determine to offer KMP LTI plan performance rights in lieu of a bonus where the Employee agrees to contractually forgo part of their future pre-tax bonus. British Retail Consortium (BRC) BRC Global Standard A leading safety and quality certification program Broodstock CAGR CBA Constitution A group of mature fish used in aquaculture for breeding purposes Compound annual growth rate Commonwealth Bank of Australia The constitution of the Company Control event refers to: (a) A Court orders a meeting to be convened in relation to a proposed compromise or arrangement for the purposes of, or in connection with: a. a scheme which would, if it becomes effective, result in any person (either alone or together with its related bodies corporate) owning all of the shares in the Company; or b. a scheme for the reconstruction of the Company or its amalgamation with any other company or companies; (b) members of the Company approve any compromise or arrangement referred to in paragraph (a); (c) any person becomes bound or entitled to acquire shares in the Company under: a. any compromise or arrangement referred to in paragraph (a) which has been approved by the Court; b. section 414 of the Corporations Act; or c. Part 6A.1 or Part 6A.2 of the Corporations Act; (d) a resolution is proposed to be put to shareholders proposing a voluntary winding up; or (e) an order is sought for the compulsory winding up of the Company. The strategy under which Huon planned to roll out a number of strategic capital projects across its operations which are intended to expand production, increase efficiency and maintain the consistency and high quality of fish produced Controlled Growth Strategy Corporations Act Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) DPIPWE EBIT EBITDA FAO Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Earnings before interest and tax. This is a non-IFRS measure Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation. This is a non-IFRS measure Food and Agriculture Organization is specialised agency of the United Nations 115 Glossary of Terms continued Fortress Pens GLOBAL G.A.P. GSI GST Hatchery HOG Fish pens which have been designed by Huon in order to be predator resistant and incorporate a patented stanchion design Non-governmental organisation that sets voluntary standards for the certification of agricultural products around the globe Global Salmon Initiative, a leadership initiative by global farmed salmon producers focused on making significant progress towards a shared goal of providing a highly sustainable source of healthy protein to feed a growing global population, whilst minimising the environmental footprint and continuing to improve our social contribution Goods and services tax A facility where eggs are hatched under artificial conditions Head-on gutted fish Huon or the Company or the Consolidated Group Huon Aquaculture Group Limited (ACN 114 456 781) and its subsidiaries as the context requires Huon Method Huon’s unique method of farming salmon which places the welfare of fish at the centre of operations and ensures salmon are provided an environment which mimics their natural habitat and are raised i) stress free; ii) well nourished; iii) clean and healthy; and iv) responsibly Husbandry The care, cultivation and breeding of crops and animals IASB IFRSs Listing NPAT OECD Operating EBITDA Performance Right Plan POMV PwC R&D International Accounting Standards Board International Financial Reporting Standards Admission to the official list of the ASX, 23 October 2014 Net profit after tax Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Operating EBITDA refers to Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation exclusive of the fair value adjustment of biological assets. Performance Right means a right to acquire one Share in the capital of the Company in accordance with Plan Rules and an Invitation Plan refers to the Huon Aquaculture Group Ltd Long Term Incentive Plan and Bonus Plan as set out in the Plan Rules Pilchard Orthomyxovirus PricewaterhouseCoopers Research and development Rabobank Cooperatieve Centrale Raiffeisen-Boerenleenbank B.A. Related Body Corporate Has the meaning given by section 50 of the Corporations Act Rules Salmonids Smolt Sustainability Dashboard TPD TPDNO TSGA Rules refer to the terms and conditions of the Plan Collective name for all salmon fish species, including trout A young salmon A dashboard on Huon’s website which provides information concerning Huon’s salmon farming practices, management of the welfare of its fish and the impact on the environment Total permanent disability Total Permissible Dissolved Nitrogen Output Tasmanian Salmonid Growers’ Association, Tasmania’s peak body representing salmon growers throughout Tasmania Value added products Raw fish which undergo processing in order to be turned into other products such as skin-on or skin-off fillets, portions, cutlets, smoked products, pate or caviar WFE Year Class 116 Whole fish equivalent The calendar year in which the smolt (salmon) or fingerling (trout) enters the sea for on-growing Huon Aquaculture Group LimitedAnnual Report 2019 Corporate Directory Directors – Neil Kearney, Chairman – – – – Peter Bender, Managing Director and CEO Frances Bender, Executive Director Tony Dynon, Non-executive Director Simon Lester, Non-executive Director Auditor PricewaterhouseCoopers 2 Riverside Quay Southbank VIC 3006 Bankers Commonwealth Bank of Australia Level 20, Tower One Collins Square, 727 Collins Street Melbourne VIC 3008 Rabobank Darling Park Tower 3 Level 13, 201 Sussex Street Sydney NSW 2000 Stock Exchange Listing Huon Aquaculture Group Limited is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) The Home Exchange is Melbourne, Victoria ASX Code: HUO Share Registry Link Market Services Level 12, 680 George Street Sydney NSW 2000 Senior Executives – – – – – David Morehead, General Manager Peter Bender, Managing Director and CEO Frances Bender, Executive Director Philip Wiese, Deputy CEO Thomas Haselgrove, CFO Marine Operations – Charles Hughes, General Manager Commercial and Planning – David Mitchell, General Manager Freshwater Operations Company Secretary – Thomas Haselgrove Registered Office Huon Aquaculture Group Limited Level 13, 188 Collins Street Hobart TAS 7000 +61 3 6295 4200 huonaqua@huonaqua.com.au www.huonaqua.com.au Principal Place of Business Huon Aquaculture Group Limited 961 Esperance Coast Road Dover TAS 7109 117 HUON AQUACULTURE GROUP LIMITEDANNUAL REPORT 2019www.huonaqua.com.auHuon Aquaculture Group Limited