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Rhythm Biosciences Limited

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2020 
ANNUAL 
REPORT

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES LIMITED
ACN 619 459 335

COLORECTAL 
CANCER IS A 
SIGNIFICANT 
GLOBAL HEALTH RISK 
EARLY DETECTION 
CAN INCREASE 
CURE RATES TO 90%

2

Contents

Key Milestones ...................................................................................................................... 4

Company Overview ............................................................................................................ 5

Market Overview ................................................................................................................. 6

Chairman’s Letter .............................................................................................................. 10

Chief Executive Officer’s Report .................................................................................12

Directors’ Report.................................................................................................................14

Auditor Independence Declaration ..........................................................................26

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other 

Comprehensive Income ................................................................................................. 27

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position .....................................................28

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity ....................................................29

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows ..................................................................29

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements  .............................................. 30

Directors’ Declaration ..................................................................................................... 48

Independent Auditor’s Report ....................................................................................49

Additional ASX Information ..........................................................................................53

Corporate Directory ........................................................................................................ 55

3

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTKEY MILESTONES

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES IS 
HITTING ITS MILESTONES 
AND REMAINS ON TRACK

$1.8M

Test  
Kit

Solid cash position  
with $1.8m in the bank  
at 30 June 2020

Key lead biomarker 
technically validated. 
Adjunct biomarkers 
progressing well

Capital 
Raise

Clinical
Trial

Raising $6m via a 
Placement and Rights 
Issue to rebuild balance 
sheet

Review and feasibility 
assessments for additional 
trial sites underway 
to accelerate patient 
recruitment.

Strong 
IP

TGA 
CE

Divisional patent granted 
in China. ColoSTAT® 
trademark granted in USA

Review underway to 
accelerate CE Mark. TGA 
pathway on track

4

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Rhythm Biosciences Snapshot

Rhythm Biosciences Limited (ASX:RHY) is committed to developing and commercialising cancer diagnostics 
technology for sale to national and international markets. In the short term Rhythm is focused on improving colorectal 
cancer survival rates through early detection. Rhythm has one wholly owned subsidiary, Vision Tech Bio Pty Ltd, 
which owns the colorectal cancer diagnostic technology.

Rhythm believes that a new low cost simple blood test for colorectal cancer, whether used as a first-step screening 
test or in the triage of people with a positive FIT result before colonoscopy, will help reduce morbidity, mortality and 
healthcare costs associated with colorectal cancer.

Rhythm Biosciences

Initial Proposed Product

Aim

 An Australian, 
transformative 
cancer diagnostics 
technology 
company

ColoSTAT® — a simple, 
low cost and accurate 
blood test for the 
early detection of 
colorectal cancer

To reduce the impact 
of colorectal cancer 
globally through 
improved diagnosis

Path to Commercialisation

13 years of research has been devoted to developing the ColoSTAT® technology by CSIRO, Australia’s premier 
research body, prior to reaching Rhythm hands. Rhythm is using its product development and commercialisation 
expertise to transform this potentially life-saving technology from the research lab through the development process 
and then into the market as an in vitro diagnostic (IVD). 

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES SIMPLE, ACCURATE AND LOW COST BLOOD 
TEST WILL FILL A UNIQUE SPACE IN THE MASS SCREENING MARKET

COMMENCED AND ONGOING

ONGOING

Reagent 
development 
& validation 
of individual 
biomarker tests

Finalise panel 
(Study 6) & 
production 
transfer

Clinical trial 
recruitment and 
final report
(Study 7)

Regulatory  
Submissions  
Europe 
Australia 
USA

Business 
Development 
/ Partnering 
opportunities

Market Entry 
Europe 
 Australia,  
USA  
+ Others

5

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTMARKET OVERVIEW

COLORECTAL CANCER 
IS A SIGNIFICANT 
GLOBAL HEALTH RISK
Screening helps detect those most 
at risk, providing an opportunity for 
early intervention and improved 
treatment outcomes. Despite this 
many people don’t participate, for 
clinical, cultural or personal reasons, 
compromising the effectiveness of 
such important health programs. 
In Australia, circa 60% of people at 
risk don’t take the test. Providing 
a simple, low cost and practical 
alternative blood test is an important 
market opportunity for Rhythm’s 
ColoSTAT® blood test.

6

The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases dramatically above the age of 50.  
In countries such as Australia, UK, US and much of the Europe, colorectal cancer screening 

is recommended for all 50-74 year-olds, although in most of this elevated-risk population the 

majority remains under-screened. Colonoscopies, the most reliable diagnostic test for colorectal 

cancer, are invasive, expensive and not without risk, while faecal tests suffer from sub-optimal 

take-up rates with many in the target population having an aversion to handling their own stool, 

among other reasons.

Rhythm is endeavouring to address this significant market opportunity with its in-development 
colorectal cancer screening product ColoSTAT®, a simple, low cost, patient-friendly and accurate 
blood test for the early detection of colorectal cancer aimed at the global mass market.

Colorectal Cancer is the 
2nd most prevalent 
cancer
globally 

Elevated risk people
remain  
under-screened 
as current tests can be either  
off-putting or expensive

ColoSTAT® — a simple, low cost 
blood test for the
accurate & early 
detection of
colorectal cancer

NEW CASES AND DEATHS FROM COLORECTAL CANCER GLOBALLY

Number of colorectal cancer deaths

Global: over 850,000 deaths each year, with 1.8M new cases 
diagnosed annually
2nd largest cause of cancer death

United States
51,000

Europe
177,400

Australia
5,375

Source: International Agency for Research on CanercI www.gco.iarc.fr/today/fact-sheets-cancers

7

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTMARKET OVERVIEW

EARLY DETECTION IS THE 
KEY TO SURVIVAL

Description of colorectal cancer by stage and associated survival rates

Stage

Description

5-year % survival 
rate

Treatment

0

I

II

III

IV

Tumour has 
invaded beyond the 
epithelium of bowel 
into the muscle 
layers below but has 
not spread past the 
bowel wall.

Cancer has grown 
through the muscle 
layer of the bowel 
and invaded nearby 
tissue, but has not 
spread to the lymph 
nodes

Cancer has spread 
to the nearby lymph 
nodes but not to 
other parts of the 
body

Metastatic bowel 
cancer where it has 
spread beyond the 
colon and rectum to 
other organs such as 
the liver or lung.

Abnormal cells 
are found in the 
epithelium (mucosal 
layer) lining the 
bowel wall, most 
often outgrowths 
(adenomas or 
polyps). These 
abnormal cells may 
become cancer and 
spread. 

>96%

93%

82%

59%

8%

Typically, surgery 
to remove the 
adenoma or local 
excision through 
a colonoscope. 
Removing part of 
the colon (partial 
colectomy) is 
occasionally needed 
if a tumour is larger.

Cancers of this stage 
require removal of the 
affected section of 
the large bowel and 
sometimes lymph 
node clearance 
but typically no 
additional treatment 
is necessary.

Partial colectomy 
along with dissection 
of nearby lymph 
nodes may be the 
only treatment 
needed. Adjuvant 
chemotherapy may 
also be required. 

Partial colectomy 
along with dissection 
of nearby lymph 
nodes, along 
with adjuvant 
chemotherapy.

If rectal, radiation 
therapy and/or 
chemo may be 
options for people 
not healthy enough 
for surgery.

Neoadjuvant 
chemotherapy to 
reduce tumour 
size, surgery and/or 
tumour stenting. 

Additional therapies 
also needed as well 
as radiation therapy 
and still only an 8% 
chance of survival.

Adenoma

Stage 0

Stage I

Stage II

Spread to other organs

Stage III

Stage IV

8

GLOBAL SCREENING 
OF 50-74 YEAR OLDS

Annual estimated screening compliance rates and opportunity by jurisdiction

UNITED STATES 

63%

EUROPE 

38%

AUSTRALIA

 41%

CHINA

 19%

JAPAN

 38%

50-74 population 
93.6M

50-74 population 
231.2M

50-74 population 
6.73M

50-74 population 
396.6M

50-74 population 
41.5M

34.7M  
unscreened

143.4M 
unscreened

3.97M 
unscreened

321.2M 
unscreened

25.7M 
unscreened

Total 50-74 population, US/EU/AU/CHN/JPN 769M
Total 50-74 unscreened population, US/EU/AU/CHN/JPN 529M
NOT MEETING GLOBAL TARGET SCREENING RATES

Annual estimated screening market value* by jurisdiction

UNITED STATES 
$4.68BN
93,600,000  
potential tests

EUROPE 
$11.56BN
231,200,000  
potential tests

AUSTRALIA
$0.34BN
6,730,000  
potential tests

CHINA
$19.83BN
396,600,000 
potential tests

JAPAN
$2.08BN
41,500,000  
potential tests

In America, Europe, Australia, China and Japan, the potential screening  
market aged 50-74 is worth $38,490,000,000
COLOSTAT® - NOT LIMITED TO SCREENING. MULTIPLE LIFE CYCLE OPPORTUNITIES.

Multiple avenues and market segments reduce risk and support a flexible and 
scalable business model

National Screening Program/
MBS Reimbursed

Private  
Market

Secondary  
Triage

ColoSTAT® is well suited to mass 
market screening and/or as a 
direct replacement for National 
Screening Programs led by 
Government, Health Insurers or 
GP’s

ColoSTAT® could be 
used by GP’s or in 
Hospitals as a diagnostic

Led by Health Insurers, 
GP’s, Hospitals

ColoSTAT® could be 
used as a follow up 
secondary test for those 
that return a positive FIT 
test prior to undergoing 
an invasive Colonoscopy

Global Partnerships

Partnership, licencing, 
joint-venture options, 
collaborations, market 
specific. Maximize IP. 

* Assumption of $50AUD reimbursement per test. RHY revenue may vary to this estimate

9

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORT 
 
 
A MESSAGE FROM 
THE CHAIRMAN
OTTO BUTTULA 

On behalf of the Rhythm Biosciences Board of 
Directors, I am delighted to present our Annual 
Report for the 2020 Financial Year (FY’20).

I was appointed as Chair to the Board of your 
Company in late October 2019, having been  
a shareholder since June 2018. 

10

Upon joining, my initial focus was to 
audit the Company’s disclosures, plans 
and progress against what was laid out 
in the Prospectus and subsequent ASX 
announcements. Gratifyingly, it confirmed 
in my mind that your Company’s original 
premise continues to be valid, with 
immense global market potential.

Following this, I visited the executive at 
their places of work and discussed their 
views of your Company and compared 
this with each member of the Board. 
Members of the executive and I then 
revisited your Company’s strategy and 
operating plan. Being a smaller, dynamic 
company, we agreed to focus on the “Path 
to Commercialisation”, set two-monthly 
targets and remove any matters of 
“external noise” which had crept in.

The “Path to Commercialisation” plan, as 
described in the Prospectus involved:
i.  Reagent Development;

ii. 

IVD Kit Development and 
Production Transfer;

iii.  Clinical Trial; and

iv.  Regulatory Submissions (Europe 

and Australia).

Other observations were that the team 
was too small, had been rearranged 
(not necessarily in line with their original 
employment agreements or expertise) 
and had been distracted by external noise 
and some frustrations consistent with 
research and development projects and 
unrealistic expectations. Subsequently, in 
Q3’FY’20 your Board agreed to expand 
the team from three to seven with team 
members now operating under discrete 
reporting streams.

Whilst we had principally agreed to re-set 
the Company and adopt a disciplined 
and targeted new operating plan, we 
were not to realise that there would soon 
be a global pandemic which negatively 
affected us all. Specifically, in relation to 
Rhythm, this has adversely impacted us 
with staff attendance in the laboratory, 
delays in supply of materials and more 
specifically in regard to our major clinical 
trial, Study 7, with three out of our four trial 
hospitals being located in Melbourne.

Despite these challenges, the whole team 
at Rhythm remains resilient and confident 
in the future. Your CEO, Glenn Gilbert, 
has further developed his leadership in 
these uncertain times and whilst some 
companies have come to a grinding halt, 
we continue to make meaningful progress. 
Importantly, during FY’20, the Company 

delivered a significant win to de-risk our 
technology, having technically validated 
the key lead biomarker for the ColoSTAT® 
test. Glenn will outline this progress in 
more detail in his CEO Report, which 
follows this letter.

FY’20 has also seen a reinvigorated Board, 
with Eduardo Vom joining myself as a new 
Board member. Eduardo has a successful 
background in technology development 
and commercialisation and will provide 
strong support to the Company as we 
embark on regulatory approval and 
commercialisation.

Key achievements during the year 
included:
i.  Grant of a divisional patent for 

ColoSTAT® in China;

ii.  Successful technical validation 

of our key, lead biomarker for our 
ColoSTAT® test-kit;

iii.  Registration of the ColoSTAT® 
trademark in the USA; and

iv.  Maintenance of our ISO13485 

certification.

Subsequent to period-end, we embarked 
upon rebuilding our balance sheet, in 
order to continue to fund our pathway 
towards commercialisation. Recognising 
the strong support shown from Rhythm’s 
loyal shareholder base, the Board elected 
to favour existing shareholders via a 3 
for 5 rights issue, encompassing firm 
commitments, alongside two equally 
priced placements, aiming to raise 
approximately $6.0 million.

All directors, eligible to take up their 
entitlement have indicated their intention 
to do so. Moreover, through related 
entities, I have now become a substantial 
shareholder in the Company, further 
aligning my own interests with those 
of all stakeholders. I would like to take 
this opportunity to personally thank 
the majority of shareholders for voting 
in favour of my additional placement 
subscription.

I would like to reiterate that the whole 
team at Rhythm remains confident in 
achieving the development of ColoSTAT®, 
as a low-cost, mass screening blood 
test for the early detection of colorectal 
cancer, aimed at the worldwide market. 
Whilst there is still significant work to 
be done, we are now well resourced and 
funded, as well as having a strong and 
experienced Board to navigate the path 
ahead. The Company is better managed 
with strong leadership, yet nimble enough 

to cope with necessary changes brought 
about by these uncertain times.

Whilst present conditions have adversely 
impacted our business, these are 
expected to be mostly timing related, 
rather than through unknown scientific 
driven delays. Despite development and 
clinical risk remaining, we expect the 
near-term future to be fruitful, with further 
de-risking of our product development as 
we technically validate other antibodies 
and enlist more trial sites.

Colorectal cancer remains the second 
biggest cause of cancer death in the 
world and continues to grow year after 
year. Rhythm’s ColoSTAT® blood test 
has the potential to be an important 
transformative tool for its early detection, 
and therefore the early treatment of this 
insidious disease – potentially saving lives 
and public health costs. Hence, despite 
recent health concerns being overtaken 
by COVID-19, ColoSTAT®’s potential 
remains undiminished.

I would like to thank my fellow directors 
Trevor Lockett, Lou Panaccio, Eduardo 
Vom and David White for their diligent 
efforts and counsel during the year. I 
also thank our Company Secretaries, 
Adrien Wing and Pauline Moffatt and our 
CEO Glenn Gilbert, who has developed 
increasingly strong leadership as he 
has navigated the Company through 
uncertain times on both the scientific and 
COVID-19 front, making key decisions 
to keep the Company on the right path 
and our staff safe. I look forward to Glenn, 
along with his executive / scientific 
team, continuing to deliver value for all 
stakeholders into the future.

Looking ahead to FY’21, we expect to be 
able to report more significant progress 
on our path to commercialisation, with 
several initiatives nearing maturity.

Finally, I would also like to take 
this opportunity to thank you, our 
shareholders for your ongoing support. 
Whilst the Company remains well below 
its December 2017 IPO price, I believe we 
are entering an exciting phase whereby 
substantial value will be capable of being 
recognised, rewarding all stakeholders. 

Otto Buttula  
Chairman 

11

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTCHIEF EXECUTIVE 
OFFICER’S REPORT
GLENN GILBERT 

With over 13 years of research and development 
legacy set by the CSIRO, Rhythm has continued 
with the same rigour and discipline in the 2020 
Financial Year (FY’20) making considerable 
progress developing ColoSTAT®, a simple, low-cost, 
mass screening blood test for the early detection of 
colorectal cancer, aimed at the global market.

12

The year started with confirmation of new 
antibodies for the key lead biomarker, 
used in the ColoSTAT® test, which were 
able to successfully differentiate between 
cancer and healthy samples. The key 
lead biomarker is the cornerstone for 
the final ColoSTAT® test kit and has been 
demonstrated historically to be the 
majority contributor to the algorithm. In 
the months following, this achievement 
ultimately led to the key milestone for 
the year with the successful technical 
validation of the key lead biomarker, 
confirming that the individual biomarker 
test is stable and reproducible. Solid 
progress for several anticipated adjunct 
(supporting) biomarkers was made. These 
adjunct antibodies have been optimised 
and are currently in the final stages of 
technical validation. Technical validation 
not only provides confidence in our 
development path, but also significantly 
de-risks the technology that underpins 
Rhythm’s ColoSTAT® test.

The Company began the transition to the 
next phase of our development program, 
with the alignment of resources focused 
on the delivery of future key milestones. 
Primarily to finalise the test-kit panel, 
technology transfer and scale up of 
third-party manufacturers and to appoint 
additional clinical trial sites to drive patient 
recruitment. 

As disclosed, our ability to progress 
various components of the development 
program were impacted by COVID-19 in 
the second half of the financial year. This 
mostly involved delays in the global supply 
chain for various materials, along with 
blood sample and patient recruitment 
for the clinical trial (Study 7). However, on 
matters we could control, management 
decisions were made early, reorganising 
teams and appropriately investing in 
additional resources benefitting other 
parts of the development program. The 
re-deployment of Government health 
system resources within the existing 

clinical trial sites has meant that patient 
recruitment was suspended and currently 
remains that way for all Victorian trial sites. 
The Company has worked closely with its 
clinical trial partners, including its Clinical 
Research Organisation (CRO) and Sonic 
Clinical Trials (SCT), to consider options 
ahead of and post our trial sites resuming 
recruitment of Study 7. 

The Company is currently reviewing its EU 
regulatory plan, with consideration being 
given towards applying for a CE Mark in 
advance of the completion of the final 
clinical trial (Study 7) report. This will be 
guided by appropriate, satisfactory, and 
robust data available from Study 6 and 
our ongoing verification testing program. 
An earlier granting of a CE Mark will not 
necessarily lead to immediate sales (or 
reimbursement), as key opinion leaders, 
physicians, surgeons, and governments 
will likely require clinical evidence, 
supported by Study 7. Nonetheless, an 
earlier granting could further encourage 
patient recruitment and potentially 
bring forward other commercialisation 
discussions.

Further out, Rhythm expect to seek 
approval for ColoSTAT® in the United 
States. Preliminary assessment work has 
commenced, with various go-to-market 
plans being developed that may include 
FDA approval and / or early entry via a 
CLIA laboratory (lab developed test) 
pathway. 

Despite the current market conditions, 
the global unmet need for a mass market, 
simple, low cost blood test remains 
unchanged. ColoSTAT® has the potential 
to be a transformative diagnostic tool 
that could significantly increase global 
compliance of participating countries 
within their national bowel cancer 
screening programs and potentially 
be included in routine annual patient 
check-ups. The anticipated positive 
health economic benefits from early 

detection of colorectal cancer from the 
introduction of ColoSTAT® could enhance 
its potential to attract reimbursement by 
both governments and health insurance 
companies alike. 

In closing, I am pleased with the 
meaningful progress and achievements 
made by the Company in a very 
challenging year. Rhythm is in great 
shape. We now have a key lead biomarker 
technically validated, with several 
adjunct (supporting) biomarkers close 
to concluding their validation protocols. 
Moreover, we have progressed feasibility 
assessments of additional clinical trial 
sites. Adding further confidence, is that 
the Company is now more appropriately 
resourced to meet our stated milestones.

I thank our dedicated and passionate 
Rhythm team, who work with great energy 
and determination to deliver on our 
collective goal, and to the Rhythm Board 
of Directors for their oversight, advice, and 
support. 

Our research and development effort is 
entering a more mature phase and the 
potential commercialisation of ColoSTAT® 
has the potential to transform not only the 
Company, but also the way the colorectal 
cancer is detected globally. 

I look forward to continuing our important 
work, reporting our progress, and 
delivering value to all our stakeholders. 

Glenn Gilbert  
CEO 

13

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTDIRECTORS’ REPORT

The Directors of Rhythm Biosciences Limited (Rhythm, the Group, or the Company) present their report for the financial 
year ended 30 June 2020.

Directors

The Directors at any time during the year, or since the end of the financial year, were as follows:

Mr Otto Buttula (appointed 28 October 2019)

Dr Trevor Lockett

Mr Louis (Lou) Panaccio 

Mr David White

Mr Eduardo Vom (appointed 5 June 2020)

Mr Shane Tanner (resigned 25 October 2019)

Principal Activities 

Rhythm Biosciences Limited (ASX: RHY) is developing and commercialising Australian medical diagnostics technology 
for sale in domestic and international markets. Its ColoSTAT® product, which remains in development aims to provide an 
accurate and early detection test for colorectal cancer. 

Corporate Information

Rhythm, a company limited by shares, is incorporated and domiciled in Australia. Rhythm has prepared a consolidated 
financial report incorporating the entity that it controlled during the financial year.

The registered office is located at Level 2, 480 Collins Street, Melbourne Victoria, Australia, 3000.

The major operations of the Company are located at Bio21 Institute, 30 Flemington Road, Parkville Victoria, Australia, 
3010

Review of Operations

The Group incurred a loss after income tax of $4,022,984 for the year ended 30 June 2020 (2019: $2,546,159).

The Chairman’s Letter and Chief Executive Officer’s Report contain a review of operations.

Significant Changes in the State of Affairs

There were no significant changes in the state of affairs of the consolidated entity during the financial year.

Future Developments

The Directors’ do not foresee any unusual future event that may significantly negatively impact the Group’s operations, 
results or state of affairs. Rhythm’s business model of developing diagnostic products for global markets will always 
bear some risk given the nature of technological development, competitors entering the market, changes in global 
healthcare, reliance on commercial partners and our ability to access capital to sustain operations. We cannot guarantee 
that Rhythm’s technology will be widely adopted. Moreover, the global Healthcare industry is an ever-evolving landscape 
where changes may impact our business opportunities.

Dividends

No dividends were paid or declared since the start of the financial year. No recommendation for payment has been made.

14

Directors and Company Secretaries 

Names, qualifications and experience 

Name

Title

Otto Buttula (appointed 28 October 2019)

Non-Executive Chairman

Experience and expertise

Mr Buttula has had extensive experience and success in investment research, funds 
management, information and bio-technologies and has held directorships in a 
number of public companies. Mr Buttula’s executive experience includes co-founder 
and CEO and Managing Director of IWL Limited, an online financial services company 
that listed on the ASX in 1999. The company grew from a market capitalisation of $48 
million at listing before a takeover in 2007 by Commonwealth Bank of Australia for 
$373 million. Mr Buttula also founded and was Managing Director of Investors Mutual, 
prior to which he was a co-founder and director of Lonsdale Securities Limited.

Following his completion of executive duties, Mr Buttula was Non-Executive Chairman 
of platform and stockbroking provider Investorfirst Limited and led the acquisition of 
HUB24 Limited (ASX: HUB). More recently, he served on the Board as a non-executive 
director and Head of Audit and Risk at Imugene Limited (ASX: IMU) between 2014 and 
2016.

Interests in shares

1,500,000 fully paid ordinary shares

Interests in options

Nil

Name

Title

Dr Trevor Lockett

Technical Director

Experience and expertise

A molecular biologist by trade, Trevor Lockett received his PhD in biochemistry from 
the University of Adelaide and postdoctoral experience at the Rockefeller University 
in New York. With over 30 years of research experience, predominantly at the CSIRO, 
Trevor has led large, multidisciplinary research efforts in the areas of prostate cancer 
gene therapy, colorectal cancer prevention and the promotion of gastrointestinal 
health. In his role as Theme Leader, Colorectal Cancer and Gut Health, Trevor oversaw 
the research efforts leading to the technology that is to become ColoSTAT®.

Interests in shares

100,000 fully paid ordinary shares

Interests in options

2,000,000 options with an exercise price of 30 cents expiring on 7 December 2020

Name

Title

David White

Non-Executive Director

Experience and expertise

David is based in Chicago in the US and is currently the Vice President of Business 
Development for Bluechiip Limited. Bluechiip is an ASX listed company with unique 
technology that assists Biotech and Pharmaceutical companies to track biological 
samples in and out of cryogenic storage. Prior to Bluechiip, David spent 4 years with 
Planet Innovation in Project Management and Business Development roles, assisting 
PI in commercializing their IP in the Point of Care diagnostics space. David brings over 
20 years experience with diverse companies such as GenMark Diagnostics and Leica 
Biosystems in developing, marketing and selling IVD products in regulated markets. 
David’s experience, networks and contacts within the US diagnostics market will 
accelerate the path to commercialisation in this key geography.

Interests in shares

530,220 fully paid ordinary shares

Interests in options

Nil

15

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTName

Title

Lou Panaccio

Non-Executive Director

Experience and expertise

A chartered accountant with extensive management experience in business and 
healthcare services. Lou is currently on the boards of ASX listed companies Sonic 
Healthcare Limited and Avita Therapeutics, Inc. Lou is also on the board of Unison 
Housing Limited. Lou has more than twenty years experience as a board member of 
both public and private, for profit and not for profit companies. Previously, Lou was the 
CEO of Melbourne Pathology and Monash IVF, and also executive Chairman of Health 
Networks Australia.

Other current directorships

Sonic Healthcare Limited 
Avita Therapeutics, Inc

Former directorships  
(last 3 years)

Genera Biosystems Limited (resigned 28 June 2019)

Interests in shares

500,000 fully paid ordinary shares

Interests in options

Nil

Name

Title

Eduardo Vom (appointed 5 June 2020)

Non-Executive Director

Experience and expertise

Mr Vom has over 20 years’ experience in technology and development and 
commercialisation in the biotech industry, having held leadership roles at cancer 
diagnostics manufacturer Vision BioSystems and molecular diagnostics company 
Genetic Technologies. He currently serves as a non-executive director with privately 
owned health and wellbeing companies and is well known for his expertise in digital 
healthcare, management of multi discipline projects, business strategy and technology 
commercialisation. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Management Technology 
and an honours degree in Industrial Engineering and Computing from Monash 
University.

Interests in shares

2,710,000 fully paid ordinary shares

Interests in options

Nil

Name

Title

Shane Tanner (resigned 25 October 2019)

Former Non-Executive Chairman

Experience and expertise

An experienced, accomplished and professional director in the Australian Healthcare 
sector, Shane has orchestrated and been responsible for numerous small and large 
scale acquisitions. He also has helped to establish and guide several significant 
businesses where he was deeply involved in growth and management upskilling.

‘Other current directorships’ quoted above are current directorships for listed entities only and excludes directorships of 
all other types of entities, unless otherwise stated.

‘Former directorships (last 3 years)’ quoted above are directorships held in the last 3 years for listed entities only and 
excludes directorships of all other types of entities, unless otherwise stated.

16

DIRECTORS’ REPORTCompany Secretaries

Adrien Wing is a certified practicing accountant. He previously practiced in the audit and corporate advisory divisions of a 
chartered accounting firm before working with several public companies listed on the ASX as a corporate and accounting 
consultant and company secretary. 

Pauline Moffatt is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and a fellow GIA ICSA of the 
Governance Institute of Australia. Ms Moffatt has a wealth of experience, providing specialised accounting and company 
secretary services to public companies for over 20 years.

Meetings of Directors 

The following table sets out the number of Director meetings of the Company held during the financial year, and the 
number of meetings attended by each Director.

Director

Mr O Buttula1

Mr S Tanner2

Dr T Lockett

Mr L Panaccio

Mr D White

Mr E Vom3

Directors’ Meetings

 Held

Attended

6

3

10

10

10

1

6

3

10

10

10

1

1 Mr Buttula was appointed on 28 October 2019.

2 Mr Tanner resigned on 25 October 2019.

3 Mr Vom was appointed on 5 June 2020.

Corporate Governance

Details on the Company’s corporate governance procedures, policies and practices are at www.rhythmbio.com.

17

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTThe Remuneration Report, which forms part of the Directors’ report, sets out information about the remuneration of the 
Company’s Directors and its Key Management Personnel for the financial year ended 30 June 2020.

Remuneration Report (Audited)

Names and positions held by Directors and Key Management Personnel at any time during the financial year were:

Name

Mr Otto Buttula

Mr Shane Tanner

Dr Trevor Lockett

Position

Non-Executive Chairman

Non-Executive Chairman

Technical Director

Mr Louis (Lou) Panaccio

Non-Executive Director

Mr David White

Mr Eduardo Vom

Mr Glenn Gilbert

Non-Executive Director

Non-Executive Director

Chief Executive Officer

Date Appointed to Position

28 October 2019

1 June 2017 (resigned 25 October 2019)

27 November 2018 (previously Managing 
Director from 1 June 2017)

1 August 2017

1 June 2017

5 June 2020

27 November 2018 (previously Chief 
Operating Officer from 21 May 2018)

Mr Adrien Wing

Company Secretary

1 June 2017

Directors’ and Key Management Personnel Interests in Shares and Options

Directors’ and Key Management Personnel’s interests in the ordinary shares of Rhythm Biosciences Limited and options 
over ordinary shares as at the date of this report are detailed below:

Name

Position

Mr Otto Buttula

Non-Executive Chairman

Dr Trevor Lockett

Technical Director

Mr Louis (Lou) Panaccio

Non-Executive Director

Mr David White

Mr Eduardo Vom

Mr Glenn Gilbert

Mr Adrien Wing

Non-Executive Director

Non-Executive Director

Chief Executive Officer

Company Secretary

Remuneration Policy

Number of  
Ordinary Shares

1,500,000

100,000

500,000

530,220

2,710,000

-

11,100,000

16,440,220

Number  
of Options

-

2,000,000

-

-

-

1,000,000

-

3,000,000

The aim of the Company’s remuneration policy is to align the interests of directors and employees with those of 
shareholders. To do this Rhythm sets remuneration levels that attract and retain highly skilled and experienced directors 
and employees; and motivates and rewards performance that advances the Company’s strategic goals. 

Remuneration Structure

The remuneration of Key Management Personnel and employees is structured in two parts:
•  Fixed Remuneration, comprising: base salary, superannuation (payable under the Superannuation Guarantee Act) and 

other benefits in lieu of salary; and

•  Variable Remuneration, which may comprise: a short-term incentive bonus (cash) and a long-term incentive in the form of 

options under the ESOP.

The Company aims to set the level of fixed remuneration at market levels for comparable jobs, in similarly structured and 
sized companies in the industry in which the Company operates. No advice from a remuneration consultant was sought 
during the financial year.

18

DIRECTORS’ REPORTShort-Term Incentive Plan

The short-term incentive plan provides an incentive to employees to achieve an annual cash bonus on the achievement 
of corporate goals set at the beginning of each calendar year. These corporate goals are clearly defined, drive shareholder 
value and can be objectively measured. The percentage of an employee’s base salary that can be earned through the 
Short-Term Incentive Plan (STIP) is set by the Board for Key Management Personnel and by Key Management Personnel 
for all other employees. At the end of the calendar year the Board assesses the level of achievement of these corporate 
goals. Payments made pursuant to the STIP are at the discretion of the Board. 

Long-Term Incentive Plan

The purpose of the long-term incentive plan is to align the interests of directors, key management personnel and 
employees with those of the shareholders and provide reward for sustained achievement of the Group’s strategic 
objectives. Rhythm’s long-term incentive plan is implemented through the Employee Share Option Plan (ESOP). 

During the 2018 year, 3,000,000 Options were issued to key management personnel. The fair value of employee share 
options was $194,100. This amount is expensed over the life of the relevant vesting periods. $18,592 was expensed in 
the current financial year (2019: $85,922). The options were issued for nil consideration and granted in accordance with 
performance guidelines established by the Board.

The following Share Options arrangements existed at 30 June 2020:

Number of 
Options

Exercise Price 
($)

Grant Date

Vesting Period Vesting Date

Expiry Date 

Holder

Fair Value 
per Option at 
Grant Date

2,000,000

1,000,000

$0.30

$0.20

21.7.2017

1 year

21.7.2018

7.12.2020

Dr T Lockett

$0.045

21.5.2018

Within 2 years

Various

21.5.2021

G Gilbert

$0.105

3,000,000

Total ESOP Options

Vesting basis: to remain employed by Rhythm at vesting date (ranging from 12 to 24 months). 

All options granted are in respect of ordinary shares in Rhythm Biosciences Limited and confer a right of one ordinary share for each option held.

Movement in the number of share options on issue

2020

2020

2019

2019

Number of Options

Weighted Average 
Exercise Price (cents)

Number of Options

Weighted Average 
Exercise Price (cents)

Opening balance

Granted

Outstanding at year-end

Exercisable at year-end

3,000,000

-

3,000,000

3,000,000

26.67

-

26.67

26.67

3,000,000

-

3,000,000

2,500,000

26.67

-

26.67

28.00

19

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTDuring the 2019 financial year the Company granted 504,200 Performance Rights to Mr Glenn Gilbert as part of his 
remuneration. These Performance Rights lapsed during the 2020 financial year due to the market capitalisation of 
the Company at the end of the 12 month period (Relevant Period) after the issue not being 20% more than the market 
capitalisation at the commencement of the Relevant Period. The fairvalue of employee Performance Rights was $45,277. 
This amount was being expensed over the life of the relevant vesting periods. $8,831 was expensed in the 2019 financial 
year. This amount was transferred from a reserve to accumulated losses in the 2020 financial year.

The Performance Rights were issued for nil consideration and granted in accordance with performance guidelines 
established by the Board.

Details were as follows:

Grant Date

Expiry Date

Vesting 
Periods

Granted

Converted

Lapsed/ 
Forfeited 

Balance at 
End of the 
Year

Fair Value 
per Right at 
Grant Date

28.11.2018

27.11.2021

Various

504,200

-

(504,200)

-

$0.0897

Non-Executive Director Remuneration

The Board considers the level of remuneration necessary to attract and retain Directors with the skills and experience 
required by the Company at its stage of development. Non-Executive Directors fees are paid within an aggregate limit 
which is approved by the shareholders from time to time. No retirement payments are made to Non-Executive Directors. 

For the 2020 financial year, the Non-executive Chairman’s fees were $84,000 per annum while the Australian based 
Non-Executive Directors’ fees were $42,000 per annum. The United States based Non-Executive Directors’ fees were 
$36,000 per annum. No options were issued to Non-Executive Directors under the ESOP during the 2020 financial year

Key Management Personnel Remuneration 

Key Terms of the CEO’s employment contract 

The Company entered into an executive services agreement commencing on 21 May 2018 for Mr Glenn Gilbert as Chief 
Operating Officer. Effective 27 November 2018, the Board appointed Glenn as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The 
Company has issued Glenn 1,000,000 unlisted Options which vest over a 2-year period, exercisable at 20 cents on or 
before 21 May 2021. Glenn may also receive short-term incentives dependent upon performance, as assessed against 
key performance indicators. Bonuses of $52,3101 were paid during the 2020 financial year (2019: $23,7502). Performance 
Rights were issued during the 2019 financial year over 504,200 shares as detailed in Note 17 to the financial statements. 
These lapsed in the 2020 financial year. The Company may terminate Glenn’s employment upon 3 months’ written 
notice.

Key Terms of the Technical Director’s employment contract 

The Company entered into an executive services agreement on 23 June 2017 for Dr Trevor Lockett to receive an annual 
salary of $200,000 (plus 15% superannuation). Trevor’s engagement as Managing Director was for an initial term of one 
year, with an option for a further term of 12 months if agreed by both parties. The Company also issued Trevor 2,000,000 
unlisted Options exercisable at 30 cents on or before 7 December 2020. A bonus of $80,000 was paid during the 2019 
financial year. Trevor transitioned to Technical Director effective 27 November 2018 following the appointment of Glenn 
Gilbert as CEO. Effective 1 October 2019, Trevor transitioned to a Non-Executive Director with a consulting arrangement 
at market rates.

20

DIRECTORS’ REPORTDetails of the remuneration of Directors and Key Management Personnel for the 2020 financial year are provided below:

Short-term Benefits 

Long-term Benefits

Cash salary 
and fees
($)

Cash 
bonus
 ($)

Annual 
Leave 
Provision
($)

Long Service 
Leave 
Provision 
($)

Post-employment
Superannuation
($)

Equity-based 
compensation
Options 
($)

Total 
($)

% 
Performance 
Based

Non-Executive Directors

O Buttula

S Tanner

T Lockett

D White

L Panaccio

E Vom

CEO

51,142

28,000

174,436

36,000

42,000

3,033

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(13,317)

(2,744)

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,858

-

10,054

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

56,000

28,000

168,429

36,000

42,000

3,033

-

-

-

-

-

-

G Gilbert

265,700

52,3101

16,000

3,030

24,700

18,592

380,332

18.6

Company Secretary

A Wing

Total

105,600

-

-

705,911

52,310

2,683

-

286

-

-

105,600

39,612

18,592

819,394

-

-

1. Included in this bonus is an amount of $23,750 relating to the 2019 financial year which was not finalised and agreed upon until during the 2020 financial year. 
The bonus awarded for 2020 represented 30% of the total available and was based on leadership, investor support and overall contribution. The bonus awarded 
for 2019 represented 50% of the total available and was based on scientific progress, relocation to Bio21 premises and staffing arrangements.

Details of the remuneration of Directors and Key Management Personnel for the 2019 financial year are provided below:

Short-term Benefits 

Long-term Benefits

Cash salary 
and fees
($)

Cash 
bonus
 ($)

Annual 
Leave 
Provision
($)

Long Service 
Leave 
Provision 
($)

Post-employment
Superannuation
($)

Equity-based 
compensation
Options 
($)

Total 
($)

% 
Performance 
Based

Non-Executive Directors

S Tanner

D White

L Panaccio

84,000

36,000

42,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

Managing Director and Executives

T Lockett

200,000

80,000

13,317

G Gilbert

231,910

23,7502

23,605

Company Secretary

-

-

-

2,744

1,001

-

-

-

-

-

-

84,000

36,000

42,000

30,000

22,031

5,121

331,182

89,632

391,929

A Wing

Total

105,600

-

-

-

-

-

105,600

699,510 103,750

36,922

3,745

52,031

94,753

990,711

2. This bonus related to the 2018 financial year and was not finalised and agreed upon until during the 2019 financial year.

Share-Based Payments

-

-

-

25.7

28.9

-

The Group operates an Employee Share Option Plan (ESOP). Each option provides the holder with the right to 
purchase an ordinary share in the parent entity at a pre-determined price. During the financial year ended 30 June 2018, 
3,000,000 options were issued pursuant to the Group’s ESOP. Options offered to Rhythm Directors and staff are subject 
to several conditions which can restrict both vesting and the exercising of the options. At the date of the Directors Report 
a total of 3,000,000 options were on issue.

There were no ordinary shares issued during the financial year from the exercise of employee share options.

21

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTOption Holdings

The number of options over ordinary shares in the Company held during and at the end of the financial year by each 
Director and Key Management Personnel, including related parties, are set out below (refer also to Note 17 for further 
details): 

Balance at 
Beginning 
of Year

2,000,000

1,000,000

3,000,000

T Lockett

G Gilbert

Total

Shareholdings

Granted 
During Year

Exercised 
During Year

Lapsed  
During Year

Balance at 
End of Year

Vested and 
Exercisable 
at End of Year

Unvested at 
End of Year

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,000,000

2,000,000

1,000,000

1,000,000

3,000,000

3,000,000

-

-

-

The number of ordinary shares in the Company held during and at the end of the 2020 financial year by each Director 
and Key Management Personnel of the Group, including related parties, are set out below.

Balance at 
Beginning 
of Year

-

1,600,000

530,220

500,000

100,000

-

-

11,100,000

13,830,220

Non-Executive Directors

O Buttula

S Tanner

D White

L Panaccio

T Lockett

E Vom

CEO

G Gilbert

Company Secretary

A Wing

Total

Additional Information

Share-based 
Compensation

Exercise of 
Options

Upon 
Appointment/
Resignation

On-market 
and Other 
Transactions

Balance at 
End of Year

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,500,000

(1,600,000)

-

-

-

2,710,000

-

-

2,610,000

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,500,000

-

530,220

500,000

100,000

2,710,000

-

11,100,000

16,440,220

The earnings of the consolidated entity are summarised below:

Loss after income tax of $4,022,984 for the year ended 30 June 2020 (2019: $2,546,159).

The factors that are considered to affect total shareholders return (‘TSR’) are summarised below:
•  Share price at the end of the financial year was 6.9 cents (2019: 18 cents).
•  Basic Loss per share (cents per share) of 3.99 for the year ended 30 June 2020 (2019: 2.53).

This concludes the remuneration report, which has been audited.

Voting and comments made at the Company’s 2019 Annual General Meeting

At the 2019 Annual General Meeting the 2019 Remuneration Report was voted upon by shareholders with no votes 
against the resolution.

22

DIRECTORS’ REPORTEnvironmental Issues

Rhythm’s operations are subject to certain environmental regulations under the laws of the Commonwealth and State. 
The Directors are not aware of any breaches during the period covered by this report. 

Related Party Transactions

During the 2020 and 2019 financial years there were no transactions with related parties other than remuneration.

After Balance Date Events 

Capital Raising

On 23 July 2020, Rhythm announced it will conduct a Placement and Non-Renounceable Rights Issue (“Offer”) to raise approximately 
$6.0 million.

Key details are as follows:

Placement

Placement to issue 40,112,500 new fully paid ordinary shares at an issue price of $0.06 (6 cents) on the following basis:
•  15,112,500 shares pursuant to Listing Rule 7.1 (15% Placement capacity) to sophisticated, professional and other exempt 

investors, representing $906,750 before costs issued on 29 July 2020; and

•  25,000,000 shares to Rhythm Non-Executive Chairman, Mr Otto Buttula (and/or nominees), representing a $1.5 million 

commitment, subject to shareholder approval which was obtained on 25 August 2020.

The Placement will raise approximately $2.4 million before costs. A commitment fee of 5% of the respective amounts subscribed will 
be paid to each of the subscribers under the Placement.

Rights Offer on a 3 for 5 Basis

The Non-Renounceable Rights Issue Offer is made to Eligible Shareholders to subscribe for three (3) new shares for every five (5) 
shares held, at an Offer price of $0.06 (6 cents) per share to raise up to $3.6 million before costs.

The Company has received firm commitments from third parties for up to the maximum amount sought of $2.25 million of any shortfall 
available under the Rights Issue. A commitment fee of 5% of the respective amounts subscribed will be paid to each of the above 
Shortfall Subscribers. 

Directors retain the right for up to 3 months after the close of the Offer to place the balance of any New Shares not taken up by Eligible 
Shareholders and the Shortfall Subscribers.

COVID-19 Impact

The Company been able to maintain its Research & Development staff within the laboratory. The Company has experienced some 
delays in the receipt of various materials from international suppliers primarily due to the backlog and re-routing of ports associated 
with freight processing, particularly in Victoria.

Delays have been experienced within patient recruitment and some blood sample collection for both Study 6 and the clinical trial 
(Study 7).

Within patient recruitment for Study 7, existing Melbourne sites postponed recruiting due to internal resourcing shortages as a result 
of concentration on COVID 19. This delay could be further exacerbated by the Victorian State Government’s announcement on 28 
July 2020, that there will be a suspension of elective surgery other than for Category 1 and the ‘most urgent’ Category 2 patients. 
Routine colonoscopy procedures typically fall under Category 2. This was decided as a result of increased COVID-19 cases, to effect an 
increase in human health resource capacity and in order to release beds within the hospitals.

As a result, the Company is working closely with its Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) and is actively seeking to broaden the 
locations for clinical trial sites nationally, with the 3 largest hospitals currently appointed to the clinical trial, being based in Melbourne, 
Victoria.

With the impact of Covid-19 affecting the development program and Rhythm’s partner suppliers, the Company is unable at this time 
to provide a specific, updated timeframe for the achievement of its key milestones, associated with the clinical trial, CE Mark and TGA 
regulatory submissions. 

23

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTExtraordinary General Meeting

At a General Meeting of shareholders held on 25 August 2020, the following resolutions were approved:
•  Ratification of the prior issue of 15,112,500 fully paid ordinary shares at an issue price of $0.06 (6 cents) per share to unrelated 

sophisticated and professional investors.

•  Approval for the Company to issue up to 25,000,000 fully paid ordinary shares at an issue price of $0.06 (6 cents) per share 

to Mr Otto Buttula (and/or his nominee(s)).

There has been no other matter or circumstance which has arisen since 30 June 2020 that has significantly affected or 
may significantly affect:
•  The operations, in financial years subsequent to 30 June 2020, of the consolidated entity, or
•  The results of those operations, or
•  The state of affairs, in financial years subsequent to 30 June 2020, of the consolidated entity.

Proceedings on Behalf of the Company

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

Indemnity and Insurance of Officers

The Company has paid a premium for Directors’ and Officers’ Liability (Management Liability) Insurance. 

Under the Company’s constitution:

i.  To the extent permitted by law and subject to the restrictions in sections 199A and 199B of the Corporations Act 2001, the 
Company indemnifies every person who is or has been an officer of the Company against any liability (other than for legal 
costs) incurred by that person as an officer of the Company.

ii.  To the extent permitted by law and subject to the restrictions in sections 199A and 199B of the Corporations Act 2001, the 

Company indemnifies every person who is or has been an officer of the Company against reasonable legal costs incurred in 
defending an action for a liability incurred by that person as an officer of the Company.

The Company insures its Directors, Company Secretary and executive officers under a Management Liability Insurance 
policy. Under the Company’s Management Liability Insurance Policy, the Company cannot release to any third party or 
otherwise publish details of the nature of the liabilities insured by the policy or the amount of the premium. Accordingly, 
the Company relies on section 300(9) of the Corporations Act 2001 to exempt it from the requirement to disclose the 
nature of the liability insured against and the premium amount of the relevant policy. 

Indemnity and Insurance of Auditor

The company has not, during or since the end of the financial year, indemnified or agreed to indemnify the auditor of the 
Company or any related entity against a liability incurred by the auditor. During the financial year, the company has not 
paid a premium in respect of a contract to insure the auditor of the Company or any related entity.

Auditors’ Independence Declaration 

A copy of the auditors’ independence declaration as required under s307C of the Corporations Act 2001 is set out on 
page 26.

24

DIRECTORS’ REPORTNon-Audit Services

BDO Audit Pty Ltd were paid $7,450 (2019: $20,520) for non-audit services during the 2020 financial year. 

The directors are satisfied that the provision of non-audit services during the financial year, by the auditor, is compatible 
with the general standard of independence for auditors imposed by the Corporations Act 2001 for the following reasons:
•  ●all non-audit services have been reviewed and approved to ensure that they do not impact the integrity and objectivity of 

the auditor; and

•  none of the services undermine the general principles relating to auditor independence as set out in APES 110 Code of 

Ethics for Professional Accountants issued by the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board, including reviewing 
or auditing the auditor’s own work, acting in a management or decision-making capacity for the company, acting as 
advocate for the company or jointly sharing economic risks and rewards.

Officers of the company who are former directors of BDO Audit Pty Ltd

There are no officers of the company who are former directors of BDO Audit Pty Ltd.

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

Otto Buttula 
Chairman

Melbourne, Australia 
Dated this 31st day of August 2020

25

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTAUDITORS INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION

Tel: +61 3 9603 1700 
Fax: +61 3 9602 3870 
www.bdo.com.au 

Collins Square, Tower Four  
Level 18, 727 Collins Street 
Melbourne VIC 3008 
GPO Box 5099 Melbourne VIC 3001 
Australia 

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE BY JAMES MOONEY TO THE DIRECTORS OF RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES 
LIMITED 

As lead auditor of Rhythm Biosciences Limited for the year ended 30 June 2020, I declare that, to the 
best of my knowledge and belief, there have been: 

1.  No contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 in 

relation to the audit; and 

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

This declaration is in respect of Rhythm Biosciences Limited and the entities it controlled during the 
period. 

James Mooney 
Director 

BDO Audit Pty Ltd 

Melbourne, 31 August 2020 

BDO Audit Pty Ltd ABN 33 134 022 870 is a member of a national association of independent entities which are all members of BDO 
Australia Ltd ABN 77 050 110 275, an Australian company limited by guarantee. BDO Audit Pty Ltd and BDO Australia Ltd are members 
of BDO International Ltd, a UK company limited by guarantee, and form part of the international BDO network of independent 
member firms. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

26

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

Notes

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

Other Income

Interest Income

Government Stimulus Income

Research and Development Tax Refund

Expenses

Employment related costs

4

Office and compliance costs

Research and development costs

Marketing and investor relations

Occupancy costs

Travel and meetings

Finance costs

Depreciation

Amortisation of intangibles

Total Expenses

Loss Before Income Tax

Income tax expense

Loss After Tax

Other comprehensive income

Total Comprehensive Loss for the Year

Loss Per Share

Basic loss per share (cents per share)

Diluted loss per share (cents per share)

9

5

6

6

46,266

100,000

-

(1,397,801)

(549,617)

(1,939,431)

(41,846)

(49,918)

(41,554)

(7,796)

(105,316)

(35,971)

(4,169,250)

(4,022,984)

-

141,066

-

1,027,618

(1,617,926)

(523,331)

(980,283)

(302,934)

(122,455)

(88,964)

(4,584)

(29,395)

(35,971)

(3,714,843)

(2,546,159)

-

(4,022,984)

(2,546,159)

-

-

(4,022,984)

(2,546,159)

(3.99)

(3.99)

(2.53)

(2.53)

The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

27

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

Notes

30 June 2020 ($)

30 June 2019 ($)

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Other financial assets – term deposit

Prepayments

Total Current Assets

Non-Current Assets

Intangible assets

Right-of-use assets

Property, plant and equipment

Total Non-Current Assets

Total Assets

Current Liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Lease liabilities

Total Current Liabilities

Non-Current Liabilities

Provisions

Total Non-Current Liabilities

Total Liabilities

Net Assets

Equity

Issued capital

Reserves

Accumulated losses

Total Equity

7

8

9

10

11

12

12

13

14

1,797,958

139,175

45,000

23,234

4,728,315

797,697

45,000

34,298

2,005,367

5,605,310

497,986

40,012

102,546

640,544

2,645,911

676,099

75,888

42,437

794,424

8,428

8,428

802,852

1,843,059

10,037,245

194,000

(8,388,186)

1,843,059

533,957

-

90,165

624,122

6,229,432

302,133

70,862

-

372,995

6,719

6,719

379,714

5,849,718

10,037,245

184,239

(4,371,766)

5,849,718

28

The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

Issued Capital  
($)

Reserves  
($)

Accumulated 
Losses ($)

Total  
($)

Balance at 1 July 2018

10,037,245

89,486

(1,825,607)

8,301,124

Loss attributable to members

Share-based payments expense (Note 17)

-

-

-

(2,546,159)

(2,546,159)

94,753

-

94,753

Balance at 30 June 2019

10,037,245

184,239

(4,371,766)

5,849,718

Adjustment on adoption of new accounting 
standard*

-

-

(2,267)

(2,267)

Balance at 1 July 2019

10,037,245

184,239

(4,374,033)

5,847,451

Loss attributable to members

Lapse of performance rights

Share-based payments expense (Note 17)

-

-

-

-

(4,022,984)

(4,022,984)

(8,831)

18,592

8,831

-

-

18,592

Balance at 30 June 2020

10,037,245

194,000

(8,388,186)

1,843,059

*Restatement as a result of initial adoption of AASB 16: Leases as disclosed in Note 1.

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

Notes

2020 ($)

 2019 ($)

Cash Flow from Operating Activities

Interest received

Payments to suppliers and employees

Interest paid

Government COVID-19 stimulus

Research and development tax refund

47,197

(3,575,821)

(7,796)

50,000

743,822

145,753

(3,371,145)

-

-

283,796

Net Cash Used in Operating Activities

15

(2,742,598)

(2,941,596)

Cash Flow from Investing Activities

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

Net Cash Used In Investing Activities

Cash Flow from Financing Activities

Repayment of lease liabilities

Repayment of other borrowings

Net Cash Used in Financing Activites

Net Decrease In Cash Held

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of financial year

Cash And Cash Equivalents at End of Financial Year

7

(45,535)

(45,535)

(59,860)

(82,364)

(142,224)

(110,262)

(110,262)

-

-

-

(2,930,357)

(3,051,858)

4,728,315

1,797,958

7,780,173

4,728,315

The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

29

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTNOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Note 1: Statement of Significant Accounting 
Policies

The consolidated financial statements and notes represent 
those of Rhythm Biosciences Limited and Controlled 
Entities (the ‘Consolidated Group’ or ‘Group’). The 
separate financial statements of the parent entity, Rhythm 
Biosciences Limited, have not been presented within this 
financial report as permitted by amendments made to 
the Corporations Act 2001. The financial report covers 
the economic entities of Rhythm Biosciences Limited and 
its controlled entities as an economic entity for the year 
ended 30 June 2020. Comparatives are disclosed for the 
year ended 30 June 2019.

The financial statements are presented in Australian 
dollars, which is the Group’s functional and presentation 
currency. The financial statements were authorised for 
issue on 31 August 2020 by the Directors of the Company.

Statement of Compliance

These financial statements are general purpose financial 
statements which have been prepared in accordance 
with the Corporations Act 2001, Australian Accounting 
Standards and Interpretations, and comply with other 
requirements of the law. The financial statements 
comprise the consolidated financial statements of the 
Group. For the purposes of preparing the consolidated 
financial statements, the Company is a for-profit entity. 
Compliance with Australian Accounting Standards 
ensures that the financial statements and notes of the 
company and the Group comply with International 
Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’).

Basis of Preparation

Australian Accounting Standards set out accounting 
policies that the AASB has concluded would result 
in a financial report containing relevant and reliable 
information about transactions, events and conditions to 
which they apply. Material accounting policies adopted 
in the preparation of this financial report are presented 
below. They have been consistently applied unless 
otherwise stated.

The financial report has been prepared on an accruals 
basis and is based on historical costs, modified, where 
applicable, by the measurement at fair value of selected 
non-current assets, financial assets, and financial liabilities.

Going Concern

The financial statements have been prepared on a going 
concern basis, which contemplates the continuity of 
normal business activities and the realisation of assets 

and the settlement of liabilities in the normal course of 
business for the following reasons:
•  as at 30 June 2020, the consolidated entity had a strong 

cash position of $1.8 million;

•  a research and development refund, based on expenditure 

incurred, is expected in the second half of 2020;
•  the consolidated entity is still in the early stages of 

operations and is able to scale back activity if required; and

•  post balance date capital raising plans comprise 

conducting a Placement ($2.4m) and Non-Renounceable 
Rights Issue ($3.6m) to raise a total of approximately $6 
million before costs. Refer to Note 22 for further details.

Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements incorporate 
the assets and liabilities of all subsidiaries of Rhythm 
Biosciences Limited (‘company’ or ‘parent entity’) as at 30 
June 2020 and the results of all subsidiaries for the year 
then ended. 

 Subsidiaries are all those entities over which the 
consolidated entity has control. The consolidated entity 
controls an entity when the consolidated entity 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 consolidated entity. They are 
de-consolidated from the date that control ceases. 

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

 The acquisition of subsidiaries is accounted for using the 
acquisition method of accounting. A change in ownership 
interest, without the loss of control, is accounted for as 
an equity transaction, where the difference between the 
consideration transferred and the book value of the share 
of the non-controlling interest acquired is recognised 
directly in equity attributable to the parent.

Operating Segments

Operating segments are presented using the 
‘management approach’, where the information presented 
is on the same basis as the internal reports provided to the 
Chief Operating Decision Makers (‘CODM’). The CODM 

30

is responsible for the allocation of resources to operating 
segments and assessing their performance.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue is recognised at the fair value of the consideration 
received net of the amount of goods and services tax 
(GST) payable to the taxation authority. For each contract 
with a customer, the consolidated entity: identifies the 
contract with a customer; identifies the performance 
obligations in the contract; determines the transaction 
price which takes into account estimates of variable 
consideration and the time value of money; allocates 
the transaction price to the separate performance 
obligations on the basis of the relative stand-alone selling 
price of each distinct good or service to be delivered; 
and recognises revenue when or as each performance 
obligation is satisfied in a manner that depicts the transfer 
to the customer of the goods or services promised.

Interest income is recognised as it accrues, taking into 
account the effective yield on the financial asset.

Government stimulus and research and development tax 
refund Income Is recognised when there Is reasonable 
assurance that the eligibility conditions are met and that 
the grants will be received.

Income Tax

Income tax expense represents the sum of the tax 
currently payable and deferred tax.

Deferred tax is accounted for using the balance sheet 
liability method in respect of temporary differences arising 
between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their 
carrying amounts in the financial statements. No deferred 
income tax will be recognised from the initial recognition 
of an asset or liability, excluding a business combination, 
where there is no effect on accounting or taxable profit or 
loss.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected 
to apply in the period when the asset is realised, or liability 
is settled. Deferred tax is credited in the income statement 
except where it relates to items that may be credited 
directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is adjusted 
directly against equity.

Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent 
that it is probable that future tax profits will be available, 
against which deductible temporary differences can be 
utilised. No deferred tax assets have been recognised on 
the balance sheet as at 30 June 2019, as the probability of 
deriving a benefit is uncertain. 

The amount of benefits brought to account or which may 

be realised in the future is based on the assumption that 
no adverse change will occur in income taxation legislation 
and the expectation that the Group will derive sufficient 
future assessable income to enable the benefit to be 
realised and comply with the conditions of deductibility 
imposed by the law. 

Current and Non-current Classification

Assets and liabilities are presented in the statement of 
financial position based on current and non-current 
classification.

An asset is classified as current when: it is either expected 
to be realised or intended to be sold or consumed in the 
consolidated entity’s normal operating cycle; it is held 
primarily for the purpose of trading; it is expected to be 
realised within 12 months after the reporting period; or 
the asset is cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from 
being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least 
12 months after the reporting period. All other assets are 
classified as non-current.

A liability is classified as current when: it is either expected 
to be settled in the consolidated entity’s normal operating 
cycle; it is held primarily for the purpose of trading; it is due 
to be settled within 12 months after the reporting period; 
or there is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of 
the liability for at least 12 months after the reporting period. 
All other liabilities are classified as non-current.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are always classified as 
non-current.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

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. For the statement of cash flows 
presentation purposes, cash and cash equivalents 
also includes bank overdrafts, which are shown within 
borrowings in current liabilities on the statement of 
financial position.

Trade and Other Receivables

Trade receivables are initially recognised at fair value 
and subsequently measured at amortised cost using 
the effective interest method, less any provision for 
impairment. Trade receivables are generally due for 
settlement within 30 days.

Collectability of trade receivables is reviewed on an 
ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectable 

31

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTNOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

are written off by reducing the carrying amount directly. 
A provision for impairment of trade receivables is raised 
when there is objective evidence that the consolidated 
entity will not be able to collect all amounts due according 
to the original terms of the receivables expected. 
Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability 
that the debtor will enter bankruptcy or financial 
reorganisation and default or delinquency in payments 
(more than 60 days overdue) are considered indicators 
that the trade receivable may be 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.

 Other receivables are recognised at amortised cost, less 
any provision for impairment.

Intangibles

Research and Development

Expenditure during the research phase of a project 
is recognised as an expense when incurred. Product 
development costs are capitalised only when each of the 
following specific criteria has been satisfied:

i.  Technical feasibility of completing development of the 

product and obtaining approval by regulatory authorities. 

ii.  Ability to secure a commercial partner for the product.

iii.  Availability of adequate technical, financial and other 
resources to complete development of the product, 
obtain regulatory approval and secure a commercial 
partner.

iv.  Reliable measurement of expenditure attributable to the 

product during its development. 

v.  High probability of the product entering a major 

diagnostic market

Capitalised development costs have a finite life and are 
amortised on a systematic basis over the period from when 
the product becomes available for use and ceases at the 
earlier of the date the asset is expected to exit the market 
or that the asset is classified as held for sale (or included 
in a disposal group that is classified as held for sale) in 
accordance with AASB 5.

Other Intangible Assets

Other intangible assets comprise licences and are stated 
at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment 
losses.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Each class of property, plant and equipment is carried at 
cost or fair value less, where applicable, any accumulated 
depreciation and impairment.

Plant and Equipment

The carrying amount of plant and equipment is reviewed 
annually by the Directors to ensure it is not in excess of the 
recoverable amount from these assets. The recoverable 
amount is assessed on the basis of the expected net cash 
flows that will be received from the assets’ employment 
and subsequent disposal. The expected net cash 
flows have been discounted to their present values in 
determining recoverable amounts.

Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying 
amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, 
only when it is probable that future economic benefits 
associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost 
of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and 
maintenance are charged to the income statement during 
the financial period in which they are incurred. 

Depreciation

The depreciable amount of all fixed assets, including 
building and capitalised lease assets but excluding 
freehold land, is depreciated on a straight line basis over 
their useful lives to the Group commencing from the time 
the asset is held ready for use. Items of property, plant and 
equipment, are depreciated over their estimated useful 
lives. 

The depreciation rates for each class of asset are:

Class of Non-
Current Asset

Office Equipment

Computer 
Equipment

Laboratory 
Equipment

Depreciation  
Rate

Estimated Useful 
Lives

10%

33.3%

33.3%

10 years

3 years

3 years

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

Impairment of Non-financial Assets

At each reporting date the Group reviews the carrying 

32

 
values of its tangible and intangible assets to determine 
whether there is any indication that those assets have 
been impaired. If such an indication exists, the recoverable 
amount of the asset, being the higher of the asset’s fair 
value less costs to sell and value in use, is compared to the 
asset’s carrying value. Any excess of the asset’s carrying 
value over its recoverable amount is expensed to the 
statement of comprehensive income.

Impairment testing is performed annually for intangible 
assets with indefinite lives and capitalised development 
costs not yet ready for use. 

Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable 
amount of an individual asset, the Group estimates the 
recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which 
the asset belongs. 

Payables

Liabilities are recognised for amounts to be paid in the 
future for goods or services received. Due to their short-
term nature they are measured at amortised cost and 
are not discounted. Trade accounts payable and other 
creditors are normally settled within 60 days.

Employee Entitlements

Short-term and long-term employee benefits

A liability is recognised for benefits accruing to employees 
for wages and salaries and annual leave in the year the 
related service is rendered.

Liabilities recognised in respect of short-term employee 
benefits are measured at their nominal values using 
the remuneration rate expected to apply at the time of 
settlement. Liabilities recognised in respect of long-term 
employee benefits are measured as the present value 
of the estimated future cash outflows to be made by the 
Group in respect of services provided by employees up to 
reporting date.

Contributions are made by the Group to employee 
superannuation funds and are charged as expenses when 
incurred.

Share-based compensation

Equity-settled and cash-settled share-based 
compensation benefits are provided to employees.

Equity-settled transactions are awards of shares, or 
options over shares, that are provided to employees in 
exchange for the rendering of services. Cash-settled 
transactions are awards of cash for the exchange of 
services, where the amount of cash is determined by 

reference to the share price.

The cost of equity-settled transactions is measured 
at fair value on grant date. Fair value is independently 
determined using either the Binomial or Black-Scholes 
option pricing or models that takes into account the 
exercise price, the term of the option, the impact of 
dilution, the share price at grant date and expected price 
volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend 
yield and the risk free interest rate for the term of the 
option, together with non-vesting conditions that do not 
determine whether the consolidated entity receives the 
services that entitle the employees to receive payment. No 
account is taken of any other vesting conditions.

The cost of equity-settled transactions is recognised as an 
expense with a corresponding increase in equity over the 
vesting period. The cumulative charge to profit or loss is 
calculated based on the grant date fair value of the award, 
the best estimate of the number of awards that are likely 
to vest and the expired portion of the vesting period. The 
amount recognised in profit or loss for the period is the 
cumulative amount calculated at each reporting date less 
amounts already recognised in previous periods.

The cost of cash-settled transactions is initially, and at each 
reporting date until vested, determined by applying either 
the Binomial or Black-Scholes option pricing model, taking 
into consideration the terms and conditions on which the 
award was granted. The cumulative charge to profit or loss 
until settlement of the liability is calculated as follows:
•  during the vesting period, the liability at each reporting 

date is the fair value of the award at that date multiplied by 
the expired portion of the vesting period.

•  from the end of the vesting period until settlement of the 
award, the liability is the full fair value of the liability at the 
reporting date.

 All changes in the liability are recognised in profit or loss. 
The ultimate cost of cash-settled transactions is the cash 
paid to settle the liability.

Market conditions are taken into consideration in 
determining fair value. Therefore, any awards subject to 
market conditions are considered to vest irrespective 
of whether or not that market condition has been met, 
provided all other conditions are satisfied.

If equity-settled awards are modified, as a minimum 
an expense is recognised as if the modification has 
not been made. An additional expense is recognised, 
over the remaining vesting period, for any modification 
that increases the total fair value of the share-based 
compensation benefit as at the date of modification.

33

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTNOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

If the non-vesting condition is within the control of the 
consolidated entity or employee, the failure to satisfy 
the condition is treated as a cancellation. If the condition 
is not within the control of the consolidated entity or 
employee and is not satisfied during the vesting period, 
any remaining expense for the award is recognised over 
the remaining vesting period, unless the award is forfeited.

Diluted earnings per share adjusts the figures used in the 
determination of basic earnings per share to take into 
account the after income tax effect of interest and other 
financing costs associated with dilutive potential ordinary 
shares and the weighted average number of shares 
assumed to have been issued for no consideration in 
relation to dilutive potential ordinary shares.

Issued Capital

Goods and Services Tax (‘GST’) and Other Similar Taxes

Ordinary shares are classified as equity.

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

Financial Instruments

Recognition

Financial instruments are initially measured at cost 
on transaction date, which includes transaction costs, 
when the related contractual rights or obligations exist. 
Subsequent to initial recognition these instruments are 
measured as set out below. 

Receivables 

Receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed 
or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active 
market and are stated at amortised cost using the effective 
interest rate method. 

Financial liabilities 

Non-derivative financial liabilities are recognised at 
amortised cost, comprising original debt less principal 
payments and amortisation. Lease liabilities have been 
recorded adopting an Incremental borrowing rate of 
4.99%.

Impairment

An ‘expected credit loss’ (‘ECL’) model is used to recognise 
an allowance. Impairment is measured using a 12-month 
ECL method unless the credit risk on a financial instrument 
has increased significantly since initial recognition in which 
case the lifetime ECL method is adopted.

Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit 
attributable to the owners of Rhythm Biosciences Limited, 
excluding any costs of servicing equity other than ordinary 
shares, by the weighted average number of ordinary shares 
outstanding during the financial year, adjusted for bonus 
elements in ordinary shares issued during the financial 
year.

Goods and Services Tax (‘GST’) and other similar taxes

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of 
the amount of associated GST, unless the GST incurred 
is not recoverable from the tax authority. In this case it is 
recognised as part of the cost of the acquisition of the 
asset or as part of the expense.

Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of the 
amount of GST receivable or payable. The net amount 
of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the tax authority 
is included in other receivables or other payables in the 
statement of financial position.

Cash flows are presented on a gross basis. The GST 
components of cash flows arising from investing or 
financing activities which are recoverable from, or payable 
to the tax authority, are presented as operating cash flows.

 Commitments and contingencies are disclosed net of the 
amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the tax 
authority.

Comparative Figures 

When required by Accounting Standards, comparative 
figures have been adjusted to conform to changes in 
presentation for the current financial year. 

Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments

The Directors evaluate estimates and judgments 
incorporated into the financial report based on historical 
knowledge and best available current information. 
Estimates assume a reasonable expectation of future 
events and are based on current trends and economic 
data, obtained both externally and within the Group.

Key Estimates

Share-based payments

Rhythm operates an Employee Share Option Plan 
(ESOP). The non-cash expense of issuing these options 
is calculated using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. 
This model requires the input of a number of variables 
including an estimate of future volatility and a risk-free 
interest rate. Refer to Note 17 to the financial statements.

34

Intangible assets

Research and Development expenditure during the research phase of a project is recognised as an expense when 
incurred. Product development costs are capitalised only when specific criteria have been satisfied. The consolidated 
entity assesses impairment of non-financial indefinite life intangible assets and intangible assets not yet ready for use at 
each reporting date by evaluating conditions specific to the consolidated entity and to the particular asset that may lead 
to impairment. If an impairment trigger exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is determined. This involves fair value 
less costs of disposal or value-in-use calculations, which incorporate a number of key estimates and assumptions. Refer to 
Note 9 to the financial statements.

Adoption of New and Revised Accounting Standards

During the current year, the Group has adopted all of the new and revised Australian Accounting Standards and 
Interpretations applicable to its operations which became mandatory.

As a result, the Group has applied AASB 16 from 1 July 2019 using the modified retrospective approach. AASB 16 
introduces new or amended requirements with respect to lease accounting. It introduces significant changes to lessee 
accounting by removing the distinction between operating and finance lease and requiring the recognition of a right-of-
use asset and a lease liability at commencement for all leases, with the exception of short-term leases and leases of low 
value assets. 

The impact of the adoption of AASB 16 on the Group’s consolidated financial statements is as follows:
•  Recognises right-of-use assets and lease liabilities in the consolidated statement of financial position, initially measured at 

the present value of the future lease payments;

•  Recognises depreciation of right-of-use assets and interest on lease liabilities in profit or loss; and
•  Separates the total amount of cash paid into a principal portion (presented within financing activities) and interest 

(presented within operating activities) in the consolidated statement of cash flows.

a.  Impact on loss

Impact on loss for the year

Increase in depreciation of right-of-use asset

Increase in finance costs

Decrease in operating lease expenses

Increase in loss for the year

2020 ($)

60,018

3,714

(63,573)

159

b.  Impact on assets, liabilities and equity as at 1 July 2019

On transition to AASB 16, the Group recognised $100,029 of right-of-use assets and $102,296 of lease liabilities, recognising the difference in 
accumulated losses. When measuring lease liabilities, the Group discounted lease payments using its incremental borrowing rate of 4.99%.

Right-of-use asset

Total Assets

Lease liabilities

Total Liabilities

Accumulated losses

Total Equity

30 June 2019 ($)

AASB 16 
Adjustments ($)

1 July 2019 ($)

-

6,229,432

-

379,714

100,029

100,029

102,296

102,296

100,029

6,329,461

102,296

482,010

(4,371,766)

(2,267)

(4,374,033)

5,849,718

(2,267)

5,847,451

35

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTNOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Right-of-use assets – accounting policy

A right-of-use asset is recognised at the commencement date of a lease. The right-of-use asset is measured at cost, 
which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability, adjusted for, as applicable, any lease payments made at or 
before the commencement date net of any lease incentives received, any initial direct costs incurred, and, except where 
included in the cost of inventories, an estimate of costs expected to be incurred for dismantling and removing the 
underlying asset, and restoring the site or asset.

Right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the unexpired period of the lease or the estimated useful 
life of the asset, whichever is the shorter. Where the consolidated entity expects to obtain ownership of the leased asset 
at the end of the lease term, the depreciation is over its estimated useful life. Right-of use assets are subject to impairment 
or adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities.

The consolidated entity has elected not to recognise a right-of-use asset and corresponding lease liability for short-term 
leases with terms of 12 months or less and leases of low-value assets. Lease payments on these assets are expensed to 
profit or loss as incurred.

Lease liabilities – accounting policy

A lease liability is recognised at the commencement date of a lease. The lease liability is initially recognised at the present 
value of the lease payments to be made over the term of the lease, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the 
lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, the consolidated entity’s incremental borrowing rate. Lease payments 
comprise of fixed payments less any lease incentives receivable, variable lease payments that depend on an index or a 
rate, amounts expected to be paid under residual value guarantees, exercise price of a purchase option when the exercise 
of the option is reasonably certain to occur, and any anticipated termination penalties. The variable lease payments that 
do not depend on an index or a rate are expensed in the period in which they are incurred.

Lease liabilities are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The carrying amounts are 
remeasured if there is a change in the following: future lease payments arising from a change in an index or a rate 
used; residual guarantee; lease term; certainty of a purchase option and termination penalties. When a lease liability is 
remeasured, an adjustment is made to the corresponding right-of use asset, or to profit or loss if the carrying amount of 
the right-of-use asset is fully written down.

New Accounting Standards for Application in Future Periods

The Board has assessed the impact of the new, but not yet mandatory, accounting standards issued by Australian 
Accounting Standards Board (AASB). The adoption of these Standards is not expected to have a material impact on the 
financial statements.

36

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

1,918,815

260,959

2,179,774

328,287

8,428

336,715

10,037,245

194,000

(8,388,186)

1,843,059

2020 ($)

(4,022,984)

(4,022,984)

5,554,851

517,773

6,072,624

216,187

6,719

222,906

10,037,245

184,239

(4,371,766)

5,849,718

2019 ($)

(2,547,847)

(2,547,847)

Note 2: Parent Information

Statement of Financial Position

Current assets

Non-current assets

Total Assets

Current liabilities

Non-Current Liabilities

Total Liabilities

Issued Capital

Reserves

Accumulated losses

Total Equity

Statement of Comprehensive Income

Total loss

Total Comprehensive Income

Guarantees

The Parent Company has not entered into any guarantees in relation to 
its subsidiary.

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities

At 30 June 2020, the Parent Company had no capital commitments and 
no contingent liabilities (2019: Nil).

Significant Accounting Policies

The accounting policies of the parent entity are consistent with those of 
the consolidated entity, as disclosed in Note 1, except for investments in 
subsidiaries which are accounted for at cost, less any impairment, in the 
parent entity.

Note 3: Controlled Entities

Controlled Entities Consolidated

Country of Incorporation

 Percentage Owned (%) 2020

Percentage Owned (%) 2019

Vision Tech Bio Pty Ltd

Australia

100%

100%

* Percentage of voting power in proportion to ownership

37

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTNOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Note 4: Employment Related Costs

Loss from continuing activities before income tax after charging the 
following items:

Employment Related Costs 

Staff salaries and wages

Superannuation

Share-based payments expense (Note 17)

Other employment related expenses

Total

Note 5: Income Tax Relating to Continuing Activities

Prima facie income tax benefit from continuing activities before income tax 
at 27.5% (2019: 27.5%)

Add/(subtract) Tax Effect:

- Research and development claim

- Government COVID-19 stimulus

- Share based payments expense

- Other non-deductible expenditure

- Tax losses and temporary differences not brought to account

Income Tax Expense

Total tax losses and temporary differences not brought to account $2,132,457 (2019: $1,494,231). 

Note 6: Loss Per Share

The following reflects the income and share data used in the calculations of 
basic and diluted loss per share:

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

1,267,197

102,876

18,592

9,136

1,397,801

2020 ($)

1,106,321

-

27,500

(5,113)

(1,035)

(1,127,673)

-

1,270,221

109,636

94,753

143,316

1,617,926

2019 ($)

700,194

282,595

-

(26,057)

(2,885)

(953,847)

-

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

Loss used in calculating basic and diluted earnings per share

(4,022,984)

(2,546,159)

2020 
No. of Shares

2019 
No. of Shares

Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in calculating basic loss 
per share

100,750,000

100,750,000

Basic and Diluted Loss Per Share (cents)

(3.99)

(2.53)

Calculation of diluted loss per share

Potential ordinary shares are considered to be antidilutive, therefore diluted 
loss per share is equivalent to the basic loss per share.

38

Note 7: Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash at bank

Short term deposits

Note 8: Trade and Other Receivables

GST receivable

Government stimulus

Other receivables

Research and Development Tax Refund(i)

(i) This tax refund was received from the ATO on 21 August 2019 and relates to the 2019 financial year.

Note 9: Intangible Assets

Intellectual Property

Licences at cost (i)

Licences accumulated amortisation (i)

Movement in Carrying Amounts

Balance at the beginning of the year

Amortisation (i)

Balance at the End of the Year

2020 ($)

297,958

1,500,000

1,797,958

2020 ($)

81,833

50,000

7,342

-

139,175

2019 ($)

728,315

4,000,000

4,728,315

2019 ($)

46,513

-

7,362

743,822

797,697

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

600,000

(102,014)

497,986

600,000

(66,043)

533,957

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

533,957

(35,971)

497,986

569,928

(35,971)

533,957

(i)   A licence was granted by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (“CSIRO”) on 23 August 2017 and is being amortised over a 
period of 17 years based on contract terms.

39

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTNOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Note 10: Property, Plant and Equipment

Computers – at cost

Accumulated depreciation

Office equipment – at cost

Accumulated depreciation

Laboratory equipment - at cost

Accumulated depreciation

Total

2020 ($)

38,450

(20,632)

17,818

1,986

(893)

1,093

138,267

(54,632)

83,635

102,546

Movement in Carrying Amounts 2020

Balance at the beginning of the year

Additions

Depreciation

Balance at the End of the Year

Movement in Carrying Amounts 2019

Balance at the beginning of the year

Additions

Depreciation

Balance at the End of the Year

Note 11: Trade and Other Payables

Computer  
Equipment ($)

Office  
Equipment ($)

Laboratory  
Equipment ($)

21,532

7,467

(11,181)

17,818

1,590

-

(497)

1,093

67,043

50,213

(33,621)

83,635

Computer  
Equipment ($)

Office  
Equipment ($)

Laboratory  
Equipment ($)

8,602

20,928

(7,998)

21,532

696

1,280

(386)

1,590

-

88,054

(21,011)

67,043

Trade creditors

Accruals 

40

2020 ($)

560,535

115,564

676,099

2019 ($)

30,983

(9,451)

21,532

1,986

(396)

1,590

88,054

(21,011)

67,043

90,165

Total ($)

90,165

57,680

(45,299)

102,546

Total ($)

9,298

110,262

(29,395)

90,165

2019 ($)

207,156

94,977

302,133

Note 12: Provisions

Current

Provision for Annual Leave

Non-Current

Provision for Long Service Leave

Note 13: Issued Capital

Ordinary Shares Fully Paid

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

75,888

70,862

8,428

84,316

6,719

77,581

2020 (No.)

2019 (No.)

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

Balance at the beginning of the year

100,750,000

100,750,000

10,037,245

10,037,245

Balance at the End of the Year

100,750,000

100,750,000

10,037,245

10,037,245

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary shares entitle the holder to participate in dividends and the proceeds on the winding up of the company in 
proportion to the number of and amounts paid on the shares held. The fully paid ordinary shares have no par value and 
the company does not have a limited amount of authorised capital.

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.

Capital Risk Management

The consolidated entity’s objectives when managing capital is to safeguard its ability to continue as a going concern, 
so that it can provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimum capital 
structure to reduce the cost of capital.

Capital is regarded as total equity, as recognised in the statement of financial position, plus net debt. Net debt is 
calculated as total borrowings less cash and cash equivalents. In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the 
consolidated entity may adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, return capital to shareholders, issue new 
shares or sell assets to reduce debt.

The consolidated entity would look to raise capital when an opportunity to invest further into development and 
commercialisation or in a business or company was seen as value adding relative to the current company’s share price at 
the time of the investment. The consolidated entity is not actively pursuing additional investments in the short term as it 
continues to integrate and grow its existing businesses in order to maximise synergies.

The capital risk management policy remains unchanged from 30 June 2019.

41

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTNOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Note 14: Reserves

Share Based Payments Reserve

Balance at the beginning of the year

Employee share-based payments expense

Lapse of performance rights

Balance at the End of the Year

Notes

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

17

17

184,239

18,592

(8,831)

89,486

94,753

-

194,000

184,239

Share based payments reserve is used to record the value of equity benefits provided to Directors and executives as part of their remuneration.

Note 15: Cash Flow Information

a.   Cash at the end of the financial year as shown in the cash flow 

statement is reconciled to the related items in the balance sheet as 
follows:

Cash at bank

Short term deposits

b.  Reconciliation of cash flow from operating activities with  
loss from continuing activities after income tax benefit

Loss from continuing activities after significant items and  
income tax

Non-Cash Items

Depreciation and amortisation

Insurance expense (funded via borrowings)

Expense recognised in respect of equity-settled share-based payments

Changes In Assets and Liabilities

Decrease/Increase in trade and other receivables

Decrease/Increase in prepayments

Increase in trade and other payables

Increase in provision for employee entitlements

Net Cash Used In Operating Activities

c.   Total cash outflow for leases

Note 16: Related Party Transactions

Notes

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

297,958

728,315

1,500,000

4,000,000

7

1,797,958

4,728,315

(4,022,984)

(2,546,159)

141,287

82,364

18,592

658,522

11,064

361,822

6,735

65,366

-

94,753

(762,465)

(25,424)

164,122

68,211

(2,742,598)

(2,941,596)

(63,573)

(104,837)

Rhythm Biosciences Limited is the parent entity. Refer to Note 3 for details on the subsidiary.

Directors 

The names of each person holding the position of director of Rhythm Biosciences Limited during the year were Mr Otto 
Buttula, Mr Shane Tanner, Dr Trevor Lockett, Mr David White, Mr Lou Panaccio and Mr Eduardo Vom.

During the 2020 and 2019 financial years there were no transactions with related parties other than remuneration as 
disclosed in the Remuneration Report.

42

 
 
 
Note 17: Share-Based Payments

During the 2019 financial year the Company granted 504,200 performance rights to Mr Glenn Gilbert as part of his 
remuneration. These performance rights lapse unless the market capitalisation of the Company at the end of the 
12-month period (Relevant Period) after the issue is 20% more than the market capitalisation at the commencement of 
the Relevant Period. An expense of $nil (2019: $8,831) is included in key management personnel disclosures (Note 20) 
and the remuneration report in the directors’ report. Details are as follows:

Grant Date

28.11.2018

Expiry  
Date

Vesting  
Periods

Granted

Exercised

Expired/ 
Forfeited 

Balance at End 
of the Year

27.11.2021

Various

504,200

-

(504,200)

-

Vested

-

For the performance rights granted, the binomial valuation model inputs used to determine the fair value at the grant 
date were as follows:

Grant Date

Expiry Date

Grant Date Vesting Periods

Share Price at 

Expected 
Volatility Dividend Yield 

Risk-free 
Interest Rate

Fair Value at 
Grant Date

28.11.2018

27.11.2021

$0.16

Various

75%

-

2.09%

$0.0897

During the 2018 year, 3,000,000 Options were issued to key management personnel at a $nil issue price and a value of 
$18,592 (2019: $85,922) included in key management personnel disclosures (Note 20) and the remuneration report in 
the directors’ report.

A share option plan has been established by the consolidated entity, whereby the consolidated entity may, at the 
discretion of the Board, grant options over ordinary shares in the company to certain key management personnel of 
the consolidated entity. The options are issued for nil consideration and are granted in accordance with performance 
guidelines established by the Board.

The following Options arrangements existed at 30 June 2020:

Number of 
Options

2,000,000

Exercise
Price ($)

Grant 
Date

Vesting  
Period

Vesting  
Date

Expiry 
Date 

Fair Value 
per Option at 
Grant Date

Holder

$0.30

21.7.2017

1 year

21.7.2018

7.12.2020

Dr T Lockett

$0.045

1,000,000

$0.20

21.5.2018 Within 2 years

Various

21.5.2021

G Gilbert

$0.105

3,000,000

Total ESOP Options

Vesting basis: to remain employed by Rhythm at vesting date (ranging from 12 to 24 months). 

All options granted are in respect of ordinary shares in Rhythm Biosciences Limited and confer a right of one ordinary share for each option held.

Movement in the number of share options on issue

2020

2020

2019

2019

Number of  
Options

Weighted Average 
Exercise Price (cents)

Number of 
Options

Weighted Average 
Exercise Price (cents)

Opening balance

3,000,000

26.67

3,000,000

26.67

Granted

Forfeited

Exercised

Expired

-

-

-

-

Outstanding at Year-end

3,000,000

Exercisable at year-end

3,000,000

-

-

-

-

26.67

26.67

-

-

-

-

3,000,000

2,500,000

-

-

-

-

26.67

28.00

43

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTNOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

No options were granted during the year pursuant to the ESOP. The fair value of issued employee share options in 2018 
was calculated to be $194,100. This amount is expensed over the life of the relevant vesting periods.

Included under employee costs in the income statement is a share-based payments expense of $18,592 (2019: $94,753). 

The value of employee share options issued has been calculated by using a Black-Scholes option pricing model applying 
the following inputs:

Options granted

Grant date

Exercise price

Underlying share price

Expiry date

Vesting period

Expected share price volatility

Risk free interest rate

Fair value per option at grant date

Total fair value at grant date

T Lockett

2,000,000

21.7.2017

$0.30

$0.10

7.12.2020

1 year

100%

2.00%

$0.0445

$89,000

G Gilbert

1,000,000

22.5.2018

$0.20

$0.175

21.5.2021

25% each 6 months over a 2-year period

100%

2.21%

$0.1051

$105,100

The life of the options is based on the contracted expiry date.

Note 18: Financial Risk Management

The Group’s financial instruments consist mainly of term deposits with banks, other receivables and trade payables.

The totals for each category of financial instruments, measured in accordance with AASB 9 as detailed in the accounting 
policies to these financial statements, are as follows:

Financial Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Other financial assets – term deposits

Financial Liabilities

Trade and other Payables

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

1,797,958

139,175

45,000

4,728,315

797,697

45,000

1,982,133

5,571,012

676,099

676,099

302,133

302,133

There are no impaired assets within trade and other receivables; these balances, and the balance of trade and other 
payables, are expected to be settled within 1 year.

Financial Assets Pledged as Collateral 

No financial assets have been pledged as security for any financial liability.

44

Financial Risk Management Policies

The Board are responsible for, among other issues, monitoring and managing financial risk exposures of the Group. The 
Board monitors the Group’s transactions and reviews the effectiveness of controls relating to credit risk, liquidity risk, and 
market risk. Discussions on monitoring and managing financial risk exposures are held regularly by the Board. The Board’s 
overall risk management strategy seeks to ensure that the Group meets its financial targets, while minimising potential 
adverse effects of cash flow shortfalls.

The Group did not have any derivative instruments at 30 June 2020.

Specific Financial Risk Exposures and Management

The main risk the Group is exposed to through its financial instruments is liquidity risk.

Credit Risk

Exposure to credit risk relating to financial assets arises from the potential non-performance by counterparties of 
contract obligations that could lead to a financial loss to the Group.

Credit risk is managed through maintaining procedures ensuring, to the extent possible, that members and 
counterparties to transactions are of sound credit worthiness.

Credit Risk Exposures

Cash reserves form the majority of the Group’s financial assets. At 30 June 2020, cash was deposited with a large 
Australian bank in order to limit risk and ensure interest rate competitiveness. 

Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk arises from the possibility that the Group might encounter difficulty in settling its debts or otherwise 
meeting its obligations related to financial liabilities. The Group manages this risk through the following mechanisms:
•  preparing forward-looking cash flow analysis in relation to its operational, investing and financing activities; and
•  only investing surplus cash with major financial institutions.

Market Risk

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate as a result of 
changes in market interest rates. Exposure to interest rate risk arises on interest earned on cash and cash equivalents and 
term deposits.

The consolidated entity’s cash and cash equivalents and term deposits were $1,797,958 as at 30 June 2020 (2019: 
$4,773,315). An official increase/decrease in interest rates of 100 (2019: 100) basis points would have an adverse/
favourable effect on loss before tax of $17,979 (2019: $47,733) per annum. The percentage change is based on the 
expected volatility of interest rates using market data and analysts’ forecasts. 

Price Risk

Price risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate as a result of changes in 
market prices. The Group is not exposed to price risk.

Currency Risk 

Currency risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in 
foreign exchange rates. The Group’s exposure to currency risk is minimal at present as the majority of transactions are in 
Australian dollars.

45

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORT 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Note 19: Segment Reporting

In accordance with Australian Accounting Standard AASB 8 Operating Segments, the Company has determined that 
it has one reporting segment, consistent with the manner in which the business is managed. This is the manner in which 
the chief operating decision maker receives information for the purpose of resource allocation and assessment of 
performance. The Group operates predominantly in one business and geographical segment being the research and 
development of biosciences in Victoria, Australia.

Note 20: Key Management Personnel Compensation

The Key Management Personnel compensation included in employee expenses are as follows:

Share-based 
payments ($)

Short-term 
benefits ($)

Post-employment 
benefit ($)

Other Long-term 
benefits ($)

Total ($)

2020

Total compensation

18,592

760,904

39,612

286

819,394

2019

Total compensation

94,753

840,182

52,031

3,745

990,711

Further details on the above remuneration is disclosed in the Remuneration Report in the Directors’ report.

Note 21: Auditor Remuneration

Remuneration of the Auditor of the Group:

Auditing or reviewing the financial report

33,682

32,278

2020 ($)

2019 ($)

Other services:

- Taxation compliance

7,450

41,132

20,520

52,798

Note 22: Events Subsequent to Reporting Date

Capital Raising

On 23 July 2020, Rhythm announced it will conduct a Placement and Non-Renounceable Rights Issue (“Offer”) to raise 
approximately $6.0 million.

Key details are as follows:

Placement

Placement to issue 40,112,500 new fully paid ordinary shares at an issue price of $0.06 (6 cents) on the following basis:
•  15,112,500 shares pursuant to Listing Rule 7.1 (15% Placement capacity) to sophisticated, professional and other exempt 

investors, representing $906,750 before costs issued on 29 July 2020; and

•  25,000,000 shares to Rhythm Non-Executive Chairman, Mr Otto Buttula (and/or nominees), representing a $1.5 million 

commitment, subject to shareholder approval which was obtained on 25 August 2020.

The Placement will raise approximately $2.4 million before costs. A commitment fee of 5% of the respective amounts 
subscribed will be paid to each of the subscribers under the Placement.

Rights Offer on a 3 for 5 Basis

The Non-Renounceable Rights Issue Offer is made to Eligible Shareholders to subscribe for three (3) new shares for 
every five (5) shares held, at an Offer price of $0.06 (6 cents) per share to raise up to $3.6 million before costs.

46

The Company has received firm commitments from third parties for up to the maximum amount sought of $2.25 million 
of any shortfall available under the Rights Issue. A commitment fee of 5% of the respective amounts subscribed will be 
paid to each of the above Shortfall Subscribers. 

Directors retain the right for up to 3 months after the close of the Offer to place the balance of any New Shares not taken 
up by Eligible Shareholders and the Shortfall Subscribers.

COVID-19 Impact

The Company has been able to maintain its Research & Development staff within the laboratory. The Company has 
experienced some delays in the receipt of various materials from international suppliers primarily due to the backlog and 
re-routing of ports associated with freight processing, particularly in Victoria.

Delays have been experienced within patient recruitment and some blood sample collection for both Study 6 and the 
clinical trial (Study 7).

Within patient recruitment for Study 7, existing Melbourne sites postponed recruiting due to internal resourcing 
shortages as a result of concentration on COVID-19. This delay could be further exacerbated by the Victorian State 
Government’s announcement on 28 July 2020, that there will be a suspension of elective surgery other than for Category 
1 and the ‘most urgent’ Category 2 patients. Routine colonoscopy procedures typically fall under Category 2. This was 
decided as a result of increased COVID-19 cases, to effect an increase in human health resource capacity and in order to 
release beds within the hospitals.

As a result, the Company is working closely with its Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) and is actively seeking to 
broaden the locations for clinical trial sites nationally, with the 3 largest hospitals currently appointed to the clinical trial, 
being based in Melbourne, Victoria.

With the impact of Covid-19 affecting the development program and Rhythm’s partner suppliers, the Company is unable 
at this time to provide a specific, updated timeframe for the achievement of its key milestones, associated with the clinical 
trial, CE Mark and TGA regulatory submissions. 

Extraordinary General Meeting

At a General Meeting of shareholders held on 25 August 2020, the following resolutions were approved:
•  Ratification of the prior issue of 15,112,500 fully paid ordinary shares at an issue price of $0.06 (6 cents) per share to unrelated 

sophisticated and professional investors.

•  Approval for the Company to issue up to 25,000,000 fully paid ordinary shares at an issue price of $0.06 (6 cents) per share 

to Mr Otto Buttula (and/or his nominee(s)).

There has been no other matter or circumstance which has arisen since 30 June 2020 that has significantly affected or 
may significantly affect:
•  The operations, in financial years subsequent to 30 June 2020, of the consolidated entity; or
•  The results of those operations, or the state of affairs, in financial years subsequent to 30 June 2020, of the consolidated 

entity.

Note 23: Commitments

The Group has no capital commitments for expenditure as at 30 June 2020 (2019: $nil). 

Note 24: Contingent Assets and Liabilities

The Group has no contingent assets or liabilities as at 30 June 2020 (2019: $nil). 

47

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTDIRECTORS’ DECLARATION

The Directors declare that:

1.  The financial statements and notes, as set out on pages 27-47 are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001:

a.  comply with Australian Accounting Standards, the Corporations Regulations 2001 and other mandatory professional reporting 

requirements; and

b.  give a true and fair view of the Consolidated Entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its performance for the year 

ended on that date;

2.  The attached financial statements and notes comply with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the 

International Accounting Standards Board as described in note 1 to the financial statements;

3.  The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Finance Officer have provided the declarations as required by section 295A of the 

Corporations Act 2001 to the Company;

4.  In the Directors’ opinion there are reasonable grounds to believe that the entity will be able to pay its debts as and when they 

become due and payable; and

5.  Remuneration disclosures on pages 18 to 22 comply with section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001.

This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Directors pursuant to section 295(5)(a) of the 
Corporations Act 2001.

Otto Buttula 
Chairman

Melbourne, Australia 
Dated this 31st August 2020

48

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Tel: +61 3 9603 1700 
Fax: +61 3 9602 3870 
www.bdo.com.au 

Collins Square, Tower Four  
Level 18, 727 Collins Street 
Melbourne VIC 3008 
GPO Box 5099 Melbourne VIC 3001 
Australia 

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT 

To the members of Rhythm Biosciences Limited 

Report on the Audit of the Financial Report 

Opinion  

We have audited the financial report of Rhythm Biosciences Limited (the Company) and its subsidiaries 
(the Group), which comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 June 2020, the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the consolidated statement 
of changes in equity and the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes 
to the financial report, including a summary of significant accounting policies and the directors’ 
declaration. 

In our opinion the accompanying financial report of the Group, is in accordance with the Corporations 
Act 2001, including:  

(i) 

Giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its 
financial performance for the year ended on that date; and  

(ii) 

Complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001.  

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 are independent of the Group in accordance with the Corporations 
Act 2001 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s 
APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence Standards) (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. 

We confirm that the independence declaration required by the Corporations Act 2001, which has been 
given to the directors of the Company, would be in the same terms if given to the directors as at the 
time of this auditor’s report. 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis 
for our opinion.  

BDO Audit Pty Ltd ABN 33 134 022 870 is a member of a national association of independent entities which are all members of BDO 
Australia Ltd ABN 77 050 110 275, an Australian company limited by guarantee. BDO Audit Pty Ltd and BDO Australia Ltd are members of 
BDO International Ltd, a UK company limited by guarantee, and form part of the international BDO network of independent member 
firms. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. 

49

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

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

Carrying Value and Useful Life of Intangible Asset 

Key audit matter  

How the matter was addressed in our audit 

Note 9 to the financial report discloses the 
individual intangible asset, and Note 1 discloses 
the policy used by the Group for its recognition, 
measurement and assessment for indicators of 
impairment. 

This is a key audit matter due to the materiality 
of the recorded asset, and the degree of 
estimation required to be made by the Group, 
regarding its amortisation period and impairment 
assessment. 

Our procedures included, but were not limited 
to: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Evaluating whether management’s 
estimate of the amortisation period and 
amortisation method had changed in the 
period 

Recalculating the amortisation charge for 
the period 

Evaluating management’s assessment of 
indications of impairment at the reporting 
date 

Checking the completeness and 
appropriateness of the disclosures included 
in the financial report. 

Going Concern 

Key audit matter  

How the matter was addressed in our audit 

Note 1 to the financial statements outlines the 
basis of preparation of financial statements which 
indicates being prepared on a going concern basis 
which contemplates that the group will continue 
to meet its commitments and can therefore 
continue normal business activities and the 
realisation of assets and settlement of liabilities 
in the ordinary course of business. 

As the group generates no operating revenue and 
is reliant on funding from other sources such as 
capital raising, there is significant judgement 
involved in determining whether the going 
concern basis adopted is appropriate and is 

Our procedures included, but were not limited 
to: 

• 

• 

• 

Reviewing cash-flow forecasts and 
challenging management’s assumptions 
around future capital raising and 
expenditure; 

Applying sensitivities to future cash 
outflows to assess the impact of forecast 
cash inflows not being achieved; 

Sighting supporting documentation 
confirming commitments to subscribe to 

50

 
 
critical to the understanding of the financial 
statements as a whole. As a result, this matter 
was considered key to our audit. 

the share placement and to take up 
shortfall of the right issue; 

Vouching the receipt of funds from the 
rights issue; and 

Assessing the adequacy of the Group's 
disclosures within the financial statements. 

• 

• 

Other information  

The directors are responsible for the other information.  The other information comprises the 
information in the Group’s annual report for the year ended 30 June 2020, but does not include the 
financial report and the auditor’s report thereon.  

Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and 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, 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 has 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 this 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 (http://www.auasb.gov.au/Home.aspx) at:  

51

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORT 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

https://www.auasb.gov.au/admin/file/content102/c3/ar1_2020.pdf 

This description forms part of our auditor’s report. 

Report on the Remuneration Report 

Opinion on the Remuneration Report  

We have audited the Remuneration Report included in on pages 18 to 22 of the directors’ report for 
the year ended 30 June 2020. 

In our opinion, the Remuneration Report of Rhythm Biosciences Limited, for the year ended 30 June 
2020, 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.  

BDO Audit Pty Ltd 

James Mooney 
Director 

Melbourne, 31 August 2020 

52

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ADDITIONAL ASX INFORMATION

Rhythm Biosciences Ltd is quoted on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) under the ticker code RHY. The following 
information was extracted from the Company’s records as at 12 August 2020 and is required by the ASX Listing Rules. 
Rhythm’s securities are not quoted on any other stock exchange. 

Twenty Largest Holders of Ordinary Shares

Rank

Shareholder

Number of Fully Paid 
Ordinary Shares

Percentage of Total 
Issued Capital

LOUMEA INVESTMENT PTY LTD 

FERNDALE SECURITIES PTY LTD 

NORTHERN STAR NOMINEES PTY LTD 

ROJO NERO CAPITAL PTY LTD 

MRS SARAH CAMERON 

JAWAF ENTERPRISES PTY LTD

THE TRUST COMPANY (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED

10,000,000

6,500,000

4,500,000

4,166,668

3,008,334

3,000,000

2,684,500

COMMONWEALTH SCIENTIFIC & INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH ORGANISATION 

2,500,000

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

GIOKIR PTY LTD 

10

MR HSIEN MICHAEL SOO

11

12

13

14

14

16

17

18

19

DC & PC HOLDINGS PTY LTD

MS NATALIE LOUISE PATTERSON

MOWBRICK PTE LTD 

NEWFOUND INVESTMENTS PTY LTD

SHANE FRANCIS TANNER & LISA JANE WHEELER 

E&W NOMINEE PTY LTD

MR DANIEL EDDINGTON & MRS JULIE EDDINGTON 

SINDEL NOMINEES PTY LTD 

TAYCOL NOMINEES PTY LTD

20

ARDROY SECURITIES PTY LTD 

Balance of register

Grand total

8.63

5.61

3.88

3.60

2.60

2.59

2.32

2.16

1.83

1.82

1.77

1.73

1.42

1.29

1.29

1.10

1.08

1.08

1.06

0.95

47.82

52.18

2,125,000

2,110,000

2,055,000

2,000,000

1,650,000

1,500,000

1,500,000

1,277,917

1,250,000

1,250,000

1,233,750

1,100,000

55,411,169

60,451,331

115,862,500

100.00

53

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTADDITIONAL ASX INFORMATION

Distribution Schedule

The following is a distribution schedule of the number of holders of fully paid ordinary shares in the Company, within the 
bands of holding specified by the ASX Listing Rules:

Range

No. of Shareholders

No. of Ordinary Shares

Percentage of Total Issued 
Capital

100,001 and Over

10,001 to 100,000

5,001 to 10,000

1,001 to 5,000

1 to 1,000

Total

151

413

151

128

14

857

96,918,574

17,224,581

1,244,727

473,245

1,373

83.65

14.87

1.07

0.41

0.00

115,862,500

100.00

155 shareholders held less than a marketable parcel of fully paid ordinary shares.

Substantial Shareholdings Register

Shareholder

Michelle Wing

Loumea Investments Pty Ltd

Number of Fully Paid Ordinary Shares

Percentage of Total Issued Capital

11,000,000

10,000,000

9.49%

8.63%

A substantial holder is a shareholder who either alone or together with their associates has an interest in 5% or more of the 
voting shares of the Company. 

Options Over Ordinary Shares

Rhythm has options granted under the company’s Employee Share Option Plan (ESOP). Each option entitles the holder 
to purchase one ordinary share in the Company at a predetermined price. No voting rights attach to options. Further 
details are provided below:

Share Option Type

Number of Options

Number of Holders

Exercise Price (Cents)

Unlisted (ESOP)

Unlisted (ESOP)

Escrow Arrangements

2,000,000

1,000,000

1

1

20

30

There are no shares subject to mandatory escrow arrangements.

Voting Rights

The voting rights attached to ordinary shares are set out below:

Ordinary Shares

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 other classes of equity securities.

54

CORPORATE DIRECTORY

Directors

Mr Otto Buttula 
Dr Trevor Lockett 
Mr Louis (Lou) Panaccio  
Mr David White 
Mr Eduardo Vom

Company Secretaries

Mr Adrien Wing 
Ms Pauline Moffatt

Registered Office

Level 2 
480 Collins Street 
Melbourne VIC 3000

The major operations of the Company are located at:

Bio21 Institute 
30 Flemington Road 
Parkville VIC 3010

Auditor

BDO Audit Pty Ltd
Level 18
727 Collins Street
Melbourne VIC 3000

Legal Advisers

Quinert Rodda and Associates
Level 6 
400 Collins Street 
Melbourne VIC 3000

K & L Gates 
Level 25 
525 Collins Street 
Melbourne VIC 3000

Share Registry

Link Market Services Limited
Level 12
250 St Georges Terrace
Perth WA 6000

Phone: +61 1300 554 474

55

RHYTHM BIOSCIENCES  2020  ANNUAL REPORTRhythm Biosciences Limited  
ACN 619 459 335

Level 2,  480 Collins Street 

Melbourne VIC 3000 

Phone +61 3 9614 0600 

rhythmbio.com

RHYZ012 08/20