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Schweitzer-Mauduit International

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FY2018 Annual Report · Schweitzer-Mauduit International
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Content. 
Audience. 
Connection.

ANNUAL REPORT 

Contents

Our Strategy
Who We Are  ..................................................................... 2

Our Strategic Framework  
and Performance Dashboard  ........................................... 5

Looking Forward  .............................................................. 6

Executive Letters
Letter from the Chairman ................................................ 10

Letter from the Managing Director  
and Chief Executive Officer  ............................................ 12

Review of Operations
Group Performance – Key Outcomes  
and Summary of Financial Performance  ........................  14

Group  ............................................................................. 16

Seven Network  ............................................................... 20

Seven Studios  ................................................................ 24

Digital Platforms  ............................................................. 26

The West  ........................................................................ 28

Pacific  ............................................................................ 30

Other Businesses & New Ventures  ................................. 32

Corporate Social Responsibility
Risk, Environment & People  ........................................... 33

Seven in the Community  ................................................ 38

Governance
Board of Directors  ..........................................................  41

Corporate Governance Statement  ..................................45

Directors’ Report
Directors’ Report  .............................................................58

Remuneration Report  ..................................................... 62

Auditor’s Independence Declaration ............................... 89

Financial Statements
Financial Statements  ...................................................... 90

Directors’ Declaration  ...................................................  141

Independent Auditor’s Report  ......................................  142

Company Information  ................................................... 148

Investor Information  ......................................................  149

Shareholder Information  ...............................................  150

1

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYWho we are

We tell stories. Powerful stories. 

Stories that inform, inspire and entertain. 

Stories that are created and curated by our 
multi-platform portfolio of trusted brands. 

Stories that are delivered when, where  
and how our audiences want.

Stories that engage many millions  
of Australians every day.

We have secured our twelfth 
consecutive year of leadership in 
television, both at a Network and 
Channel level. 

We have secured Australia’s 
number one summer and winter 
sports for years to come. 

We are producing more  
premium content than at  
any time in our history. 

We are attracting record 
audiences to our digital platforms. 

We are transforming our 
business, becoming more 
efficient and more agile.

OUR BRANDS

2

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845

WE ARE NUMBER 1

#1 Network 
for 12 consecutive years

#1 Channel 
for 12 consecutive years

#1 Multichannel 
7mate

#1  Producer of 

Premium Video 
Content 
Seven Studios

#1  Australian 
Magazine 
Better Homes  
and Gardens

#1  Primetime, News 
and Breakfast 
Television

GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYOUR STRATEGY4

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845

Our Strategic Framework  
and Performance Dashboard

We are implementing three strategic pillars in our long-term growth strategy. Our performance 
dashboard tracks the accomplishments and progress against our strategic pillars.

FOCUS ON THE CORE

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

MILESTONES ACHIEVED

 ƒ  Improve ratings & revenue performance.
 ƒ Grow returns on content investment.

 ƒ  Strong broadcast ratings recovery after soft H1.

 – Record breaking 41.6% Jan-Jun commercial 

 – Create, secure and curate the best local and 

FTA share

international content

 – Maximise the return on our content 

investment through every window and 
overseas sale

 – Schedule designed to carry audience 

momentum into FY19

 ƒ Secured #1 winter and #1 summer sport, AFL 

and Cricket, until 2022 and 2024.

 ƒ Increased investment in produced content and 

digital platforms.

TRANSFORM THE OPERATING MODEL

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

MILESTONES ACHIEVED

 ƒ Deliver on operating cost saving targets.

 ƒ Drive efficiencies in existing assets.

 ƒ Partner with competitors in non-competitive 

areas to improve profitability.

 ƒ Evolve to a leaner & more agile operating model 

while protecting content quality.

 ƒ  Cost out exceeded target leading to $21m 
net cost reduction including 7% headcount 
reduction.

 ƒ Ongoing cost savings initiatives implemented for 

FY19 realisation.

 ƒ Took control of digital content monetisation with 

Yahoo7 JV exit.

 ƒ Entered playout JV with Nine and commenced 

Sydney office consolidation.

GROW NEW REVENUE STREAMS

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

MILESTONES ACHIEVED

 ƒ Drive greater digital adoption and yield. 

 ƒ  Scaled 7plus to 2.6m monthly average unique 

 ƒ Introduce new content monetisation formats.

 ƒ Invest in data, automation and targeted 
advertising to maximise inventory yield.

audience in just six months. 

 ƒ Seven’s digital advertising revenue up 100% YoY.

 ƒ Seven Studios division EBIT grew 8% to $56.1m. 

 ƒ Invest in adjacent verticals where we can 

 ƒ Early stage investment portfolio grew 22% YoY.

leverage the power of our assets.

5

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYOUR STRATEGYOUR STRATEGY

We have much  
to look forward to  
in the year ahead

6

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Our refreshed programming schedule, the AFL Finals and the 
launch of Cricket will help us maintain our ratings leadership in 
what is now a growing advertising market. 

We will maintain our focus on 
revenue and ratings while delivering 
on our cost-out targets, resulting in 
a leaner, more agile, core.

We will create new partnerships 
and expand existing partnerships 
with our peers in non-competitive 
business areas. 

We will invest in verticals where we 
can leverage our audience and suite 
of brands. 

And we will strengthen our balance 
sheet to provide greater flexibility 
and deliver more value to our 
shareholders. 

We will continue to invest in our 
production capabilities, extending 
our position as Australia’s number 
one producer of premium long-form 
video, and maximising the return on 
investment of this content through 
every window. 

We will invest and grow our digital 
capabilities, driving greater adoption 
of 7plus and leveraging our data, 
insights and technology to drive 
yield across all screens.

7

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYOUR STRATEGYSeven is the
new home  
of Cricket

This year we signed a historic six year agreement 
with Cricket Australia that sees Australia’s only 
truly national game back on Seven.

In total, we have secured over 400 
hours of premium sport across 
the summer – more than double 
that of the Australian Open, at a 
significantly lower cost per hour.

Our coverage will feature the 
strongest commentary team 
Australia has ever seen. 

Mel McLaughlin and Abbey Gelmi 
will host Seven’s broadcasts, with 
commentary coming from legends 
Ricky Ponting, Glenn McGrath, 
Michael Slater and Damien Fleming.

The globally renowned Alison 
Mitchell will call ball-by-ball Test 
action, together with Tim Lane  
and former South Australia batter 
James Brayshaw. Ex-Australia 
Test players Lisa Sthalekar, Jason 
Gillespie, Greg Blewett, Simon 
Katich and Brad Hodge will  
provide expert commentary. 

And to cap it off, iconic sports 
broadcaster Bruce McAvaney will 
host a lunch-break show during the 
Melbourne and Sydney Tests.

We will create new viewing habits 
by producing appointment TV 
viewing. We have worked with 
Cricket Australia to make Thursday, 
Friday and Sunday the key days and 
nights, with Tests and the Big Bash 
starting at 7pm. The Summer of 7, 
on 7, at 7.

This will be the first time that a single 
FTA network will carry both the BBL 
and Tests, meaning we can cross-
promote and monetise the two most 
popular forms of cricket in a way 
never before possible.

8

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845RUNNING HEADWe will use the unrivalled 
marketing power of our News and 
Entertainment program schedule 
to drive new audiences to cricket, 
strengthening our ratings position 
in rugby league markets, securing 
premium revenue in off-peak 
periods, driving bigger engagement 
and delivering a dominant share of 
viewing throughout the summer.

It all starts on 29 September  
2018, when we broadcast our  
first match, the Women’s T20 
against New Zealand, right after  
the AFL Grand Final.

Together with the AFL, Seven is now 
the home of Australia’s number one 
summer and winter sports. 

With the AFL locked up until 2022, 
and the Cricket until 2024, this 
will underpin our transformational 
business strategy for years to come.

We are looking forward to 
setting new standards in sports 
broadcasting, growing our 
audiences and reaffirming the 
undeniable power of free-to-air 
television.

CRICKET

The deal includes: 

 ƒ 43 of the 59 Big Bash 
League matches, 
including all marquee 
matches and finals

 ƒ All home international 

tests, including the 2021-
22 home Ashes series

 ƒ 23 Women’s Big Bash 
League matches, 
including all the key 
games and finals

 ƒ Women’s International 
One Day International 
and T20 matches

9

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYOUR STRATEGY 
Letter from  
the Chairman

Much has been written and spoken about the supposed  
“demise” of traditional media, however the reality is quite  
different and companies like ours are adapting quickly to  
rapidly changing consumer habits in the sector.

Our television stations, magazines, 
newspapers and digital operations 
currently reach 19 million Australians 
every month, with the numbers 
growing every day.

Locally owned media groups, led 
by Seven West Media, continue to 
deliver the local stories, sports and 
general entertainment programs that 
Australians value so much. 

It is worth noting that every one of 
the 20 most watched TV shows in 
Australia last year – 11 being sports 
events – was locally produced 
and we expect the same strong 
performance over the next year. 

For advertisers, TV remains the 
best place to deliver their message 
and there is increasing evidence 
that they are returning to us and 
our competitors on the basis that 
TV has the biggest reach and 
delivers the best return on marketing 
budgets.

Recent industry data shows for 
every dollar of value advertisers get 
back from TV, they get about half 
that from radio, less than a third 
from print and about a fifth from out 
of home, online video and online 
display.

We have seen a lot of publicity 
over the last year about the 
dangers presented to society, and 
advertisers, through some of the 
world’s biggest, foreign owned, 
digital platforms.

The privacy of hundreds of millions 
of users has been egregiously 
breached by artificial intelligence 
tools that scan personal posts 
and other activity, enabling the 
manipulation of people’s emotions, 
attitudes and voting by allowing third 
parties to disseminate fake news.

These platforms do not pay 
legitimate media companies for 
quality content and are not subject 
to the controls and rules we must 
adhere to, creating an uneven 
playing field.

Australian commercial TV networks 
spend around $2 billion on content 
each year – 75 per cent of which 
is on local content – and support 
over 15,000 jobs while local rules 
and Code of Practice require us 
to produce a great deal of local 
content, present factual information 
accurately and ensure that 
viewpoints in our programming are 
fairly represented.

The current regulatory regime in the 
television industry is unsustainable 
in an environment where we are 
competing for advertising dollars 
with foreign digital platforms that are 
almost entirely unregulated.

As more questions and facts 
emerge about the social media 
platforms’ misbehaviour and 
lack of advertising measurement 
and effectiveness, locally owned 
television and other traditional media 
assets are regaining their attraction 
to both advertisers and consumers.

10

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845EXECUTIVE LETTERSSeven is also creating record levels of local 
content and locking in year round premium  
sports events in AFL and cricket.

We have great faith in the future of 
our market leading assets, while 
also adapting to the changing 
viewing habits of consumers by 
creating a new digital platform that 
can reach them at any time and on 
any device.

Seven is also creating record levels 
of local content and locking in year 
round premium sports events in AFL 
and cricket, while maintaining the 
high standards of regular programs.

On behalf of your directors, I wish 
to thank all of our people and 
shareholders for your commitment 
to the group as we continue to 
right-size our businesses for future 
growth. 

Kerry Stokes AC 
Chairman

SEVEN

We continue to 
deliver the local 
stories, sports 
and general 
entertainment 
programs that 
Australians 
value so much

11

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYEXECUTIVE LETTERSEXECUTIVE LETTERS

Letter from the Managing Director  
and Chief Executive Officer

Seven West Media has again proven to be Australia’s leading multi-media company, 
with the Seven Network winning its 12th consecutive year.

Underpinning these sporting giants, 
the perennial ratings juggernauts My 
Kitchen Rules, 7 News, The Good 
Doctor, House Rules and Sunrise 
continue to be stand-outs.

The ratings have been remarkable, 
with Seven breaking numerous 
records in the first half of the 
calendar year. Seven has grown 
share year on year in all key 
demographics and our suite of multi-
channels are dominant, with 7mate 
also breaking records. 

Our focus now is continuing this 
outstanding run, delivering another 
year at number one, and monetising 
our ratings momentum. To 
complement these staple, premium 
sports, we announced in April an 
historic six year deal with Cricket 
Australia, securing all the home  
international tests, the vast majority 
of Big Bash League games, as well 
as marquee women’s matches. 

Together with the AFL, this landmark 
deal means that we now have the 
number one winter and summer 
sports locked in until 2022 and 2024 
respectively, making Seven the 
unrivalled home of premium sport 
across the whole year. 

We were encouraged to see 
continued growth in the free to air 
television market throughout the 
financial year. This has been driven 
by our industry collaborating through 
Think TV to promote the effectiveness 
and return on investment that  
TV advertising delivers. 

This market growth, combined with 
our strong ratings and cost reduction 
programs, enabled us to deliver $236 
million EBIT for the 2018 financial 
year, which was at the upper end 
of our market guidance of between 
$220 million to $240 million. 

Television

Seven responded to a soft first half 
of the financial year with a refreshed 
program schedule for 2018, featuring 
a combination of new shows, 
stronger regular programs and a new 
content deal with 21st Century Fox.

The second half saw Seven produce 
a series of world-class, top rating 
TV events with the Australian Open 
Tennis, Winter Olympics and Gold 
Coast Commonwealth Games. 
Altogether our coverage reached 
16.2 million people, constituting 65 
per cent of the population. 

Apart from the major one-off sports 
events, which also included the 
Rugby League World Cup, Racing 
and the AFL continue to attract strong 
audiences and the WAFL provides 
further opportunity for growth.

A key component of our 
transformation is 7plus, our new 
over-the-top long-form video platform 
launched during the year. 7plus 
enables us to deliver quality content 
to viewers when, where and how 
they want it. Our focus is to now 
scale and drive greater monetisation.

Production

Seven Studios, our production 
company, is central to our strategy 
of creating, owning and monetising 
our own content. Now creating more 
than 800 hours of premium long-
form video each year, Seven Studios 
is Australia’s largest production 
company by some margin. 

During the last year, we took a 
majority stake in New Zealand 
production company Great Southern 
Television, which complements our 
co-ventures 7Beyond in Los Angeles 
and Slim in the UK.

Publishing

The West continues to be the clear 
leader in the local market, reaching 
76 per cent of West Australians every 
month through news brands The 
West Australian, The Sunday Times 
and PerthNow.com.au.

Pacific, which houses leading brands 
including New Idea, Better Homes 
and Gardens, marie claire and 
Who, has maintained its position as 
Australia’s leading lifestyle publisher 
and has adjusted its business model 
to meet the changing structure of the 
magazine market. 

12

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845The ratings have been remarkable,  
with Seven breaking numerous records  
in the first half of the calendar year.

Transformation

We are very mindful of the major 
changes taking place in the 
broadcast and digital market and,  
as announced during the year,  
have a firm focus on managing  
our costs prudently and seeking 
greater operational efficiencies 
across the group.

As a result, we implemented a 
headcount reduction program in 
our television business and have 
achieved annualised savings of  
$25 million.

One key initiative in the cost 
reduction program is the move of 
our entire Sydney workforce – with 
the exception of the news and public 
affairs team who will stay in our 
iconic Martin Place offices – to our 
existing tenancy at Media City in 
Eveleigh.

In addition, we are outsourcing 
some activities not crucial to our 
competitive advantage and we are 
collaborating with our counterparts 
to share operating costs and create 
economies of scale.

The West is also working hard on 
cost savings and has commenced 
the first stage of a new cost-out 
program that will achieve a further 
$10 million in savings during FY19, 
while Pacific has led the way with 
annual operating costs lowered by 
$32 million, with more savings to 
come. 

Our net debt has reduced from 
$726 million to below $635 million at 
year end, as we continue our focus 
on improving our balance sheet 
flexibility. 

The group is mindful of the rapidly 
changing nature of the markets 
in which we operate and we are 
working hard to be match-fit to face 
what is an exciting future for the 
Australian media sector.

The net annual result from all of these 
initiatives was $21 million for the full 
year after this year’s step up in AFL 
rights fees, with further net savings 
targeted in FY19.

Tim Worner 
Managing Director and  
Chief Executive Officer

13

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYEXECUTIVE LETTERSGroup Performance
Key Outcomes

12 years of consecutive  
ratings leadership

Net debt reduced to

< $635m

8%  
earnings 
growth 
in Seven 
Studios

175%

Pacific EBIT growth 

#1 Summer and 
winter sports  
on the screens  
of 7 through to 2022 

41.6%

FTA record 
Jan-Jun 
Commercial 
Ratings Share 

100%

Seven’s Digital Advertising  
Revenue Growth 

$61m

Total Group cost savings from 
transformation ($21m net savings)

$142.5m

Underlying net Group 
Profit after tax

76% The West’s 
reach in Western 
Australia

14

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845GROUP PERFORMANCE AND KEY OUTCOMESSummary of Financial Performance

Revenue

Other income

Share of net profit of equity accounted investees

Revenue, other income and equity accounted profits

Operating expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation

EBITDA1

Depreciation and amortisation

EBIT2

Net finance costs

Profit before significant items and tax

Significant items excluding tax

Profit (loss) before tax

Tax (expense) benefit 

Profit (loss) after tax

EBITDA margin

Basic EPS

Basic EPS excluding significant items net of tax

Diluted EPS

Diluted EPS excluding significant items net of tax

FY18 
$m 

1,620.7

0.4

1.7

1,622.8

(1,351.9)

270.9

(35.3)

235.6

(35.3)

200.3

(8.5)

191.8

(56.9)

134.9

FY17 
$m

1,673.6

5.4

0.4

1,679.4

(1,372.7)

306.7

(45.3)

261.4

(38.6)

222.8

(988.8)

(766.0)

21.0

(745.0)

Change 
%³

-3.2%

-91.8%

nm4

-3.4%

-1.5%

-11.7%

-22.1%

-9.9%

-8.4%

-10.1%

nm

nm

nm

nm

16.7%

18.3%

8.9 cents

(49.5 cents)

9.4 cents

11.0 cents

8.9 cents

(49.5 cents)

9.4 cents

11.0 cents

(1) EBITDA relates to profit before significant items, net finance costs, tax, depreciation and amortisation.
(2) EBIT relates to profit before significant items, net finance costs and tax. 
(3) Change percentages are calculated on whole dollars and not the rounded amounts presented.
(4) “nm” means “not meaningful”.

Reconciliation of EBIT to statutory profit before tax

EBIT

Net finance costs

Significant items excluding tax

Profit (loss) before tax

FY18 
$m 

235.6

(35.3)

(8.5)

191.8

FY17 
$m

261.4

(38.6)

(988.8)

(766.0)

Change 
%

-9.9%

-8.4%

nm

nm

15

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESGROUP PERFORMANCE AND KEY OUTCOMES 
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS

Review of Operations
Group

16

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845RUNNING HEADSeven West Media Limited reported a statutory net profit of $191.8 million for the year ended  
30 June 2018. This compares to the previous corresponding year statutory net loss of $766.0 million. 
Excluding significant items, the current year profit after tax of $142.5 million is down 14.6 per cent on 
the previous year profit of $166.8 million.

Seven West Media recorded 
significant items of $8.5 million in 
the period, including write down of 
assets held for sale, restructuring 
costs, net gain on other assets and 
net gain on disposal of investments 
and controlled entities.

The group delivered revenue of 
$1,622.8 million, down 3.4 per cent 
versus the previous year. Profit 
before significant items, net finance 
costs and tax (EBIT) of $235.6 
million was down 9.9 per cent on 
the previous year. The dividend 
has been temporarily suspended 
with a focus on prudent capital 
management and balance sheet 
flexibility post relaxation in media 
ownership legislation.

Advertising Market and 
Revenue Performance

SMI data reported that the 
Australian advertising market grew 
by 4 per cent in the financial year 
compared to the previous year. 

Metropolitan television advertising 
increased 2.5 per cent to $2.86 
billion in the financial year based on 
KPMG Think TV data. Led by Seven, 
growth accelerated in the second 
half to 3.8 per cent.  Think TV also 
reported that mass consumer uptake 
of Broadcast Video on Demand 
(BVOD) has pushed advertising 
revenues from online catch-up and 
live TV streaming to $92.8 million,  
up 32.4 per cent YoY. 

As in the television market, the BVOD 
market accelerated in the second 
half, growing by 40.5 per cent versus 
the prior comparable period.  Seven 
reported a 38.4 per cent BVOD share 
among commercial FTA networks for 
the calendar year and a 42.1 per cent 
BVOD share for the second half. 

The digital advertising market in 
Australia maintained its strong 
growth, with SMI data showing 11.3 
per cent growth against the prior 
year. As in the television market, 
Seven outperformed the market, with 
the launch of 7plus leading to 100 
per cent digital advertising revenue 
growth YoY.

Percentage of Revenue

Revenue ($m)

1%

9%

12%

78%

Seven

The West

Pacific

Other

Revenues shown in charts above exclude Corporate revenues.

2000

1600

1200

800

400

0

26.2

256.2

331.8

27.4

237.5

291.2

13.6
220.1

260.9

24.6
201.2

228.5

12.9
168.0

217.5

14.2
139.5
204.1

1267.8

1305.7

1279.2

1259.5

1281.0

1265.0

FY13

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

Seven

The West

Pacific

Other

17

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGROUP PERFORMANCE AND KEY OUTCOMES 
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS

Metropolitan television advertising increased  
2.5 per cent.

Challenging trends in publishing 
advertising continued; however 
The West Australian Newspapers 
delivered above market revenue 
trends due to growth in digital. 
Pacific continued its portfolio 
transformation which impacted 
revenue in the first half.  In the 
second half Pacific outperformed  
as the restructured business 
benefited from having its strategy 
aligned across digital and print  
and accelerated revenue growth  
in non-SMI categories. 

Digital now represents 
approximately 27 per cent of all 
Pacific advertising revenue, and 
Pacific commands a 24.5 per cent 
share of all agency spend in the 
category, up 4.2 per cent in the  
year to May 2018. 

Cost Management

Excluding significant items, total 
Group costs, including depreciation 
and amortisation, reduced $30.8 
million representing a 2.2 per 
cent decrease year on year. The 
West and Pacific recorded cost 
reductions of 4.4 per cent and  
21 per cent respectively.

EBITDA and Operating Margins

Seven West Media delivered EBITDA 
of $270.9 million, 11.7 per cent lower 
than the prior year with an EBITDA 
margin of 16.7 per cent. Market 
leading EBITDA margins were 
retained through Seven’s EBITDA 
margin of 18.9 per cent and The 
West’s EBITDA margin of 15.4 per 
cent. Pacific’s EBITDA margin was 
7.1 per cent. Seven’s EBITDA, which 
includes its production business, 
now accounts for 84 per cent of 
total group EBITDA.

Balance Sheet

At 30 June 2018 Seven West Media 
had net assets of $528.3 million. 

Group net debt at the end of the 
year was $634.5 million and the 
debt leverage ratio was 2.3x  
(Dec 2017: 2.3x). 

18

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845RUNNING HEADPercentage of Operating Costs

Operating Costs ($m)

11.2

226.9

235.9

8.5

217.1

219.7

10.2

199.8

209.2

30.2

192.2

189.3

14.3

164.5

191.5

9.9
129.9

183.0

977.4

993.6

983.2

967.8

1031.3

1049.0

2%

9%

13%

76%

1500

1200

900

600

300

0

Seven

The West

Pacific

Other

FY13

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

Seven

The West

Pacific

Other

Percentage of Total EBITDA

EBITDA ($m)

15.5

36.4

117.1

19.4

24.4

92.9

4.2
23.5

73.3

10.5

60.5

6.2

46.7

4.6
9.9
31.4

319.6

336.2

321.1

313.8

271.2

240.4

2%
3%

11%

84%

500

400

300

200

100

0

Seven

The West

Pacific

Other

FY13

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

Seven

The West

Pacific

Other

All costs shown in charts above exclude the impact of significant items and Corporate costs.

19

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGROUP PERFORMANCE AND KEY OUTCOMES 
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS

Review of Operations
Seven  
Network

Seven is Australia’s favourite 
television network, and Channel 7 is 
Australia’s favourite channel. Both 
have now been number one for  
12 consecutive financial years. 

The strength and depth of our 
programming runs right across the 
schedule, and across the screens  
of Seven. 

We have leadership in breakfast 
and morning television, news and 
primetime. 

We have strong franchises, the 
biggest sporting events and a  
deep slate of new programmes.

20
20

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845RUNNING HEADThroughout the year, Seven continued its investment in creating and securing the best local and global 
content and produced a record amount of premium long-form video. 

At the same time, we continued the transformation of the business, accelerating our cost-out programs, 
expanding and enhancing our digital and data capabilities and driving radical change of the operating model.

Seven continues to be Australia’s 
number one television destination, 
winning for a twelfth  consecutive 
year, with 39.6 per cent commercial 
ratings share for FY18.

After a soft first half, our re-
energised schedule propelled our 
suite of TV channels to set records 
in the second half of the financial 
year, and secured the leading 
commercial share of the metro TV 
advertising market (39.9 per cent). 

We began with the Australian Open 
Tennis, and quickly rolled into the 
Winter Olympics, both of which 
delivered record audiences.

We used these as platforms  
to launch our 2018 first half 
schedule, which includes  
perennial juggernauts My Kitchen 
Rules, House Rules, Australia’s  
#1 show The Good Doctor  
and the AFL season. 

And then we had the Gold Coast 
2018 Commonwealth Games 
which dominated the ratings for 
10 days and nights, and delivered 
huge audiences to our News 
programming, particularly bolstering 
performance on the east coast. 

We also signed a content deal with 
21st Century Fox, bringing us a 
mix of iconic and proven series. 
Shows like The Simpsons and 
M*A*S*H complement the best of 
new programming, including new 
Modern Family and 9-1-1.

Underpinning this we have 
Australia’s #1 news coverage  
and Australia’s #1 breakfast  
show, Sunrise. 7 News has had a 
strong start to 2018, growing share 
of the flagship 6pm show both 
during the week and at weekends, 
and improving our position on the 
east coast.

In the second half of 2018, Dance 
Boss and Take Me Out join Little Big 
Shots, Instant Hotel and The Good 
Doctor in Seven’s strengthened 
program schedule. And we’ll be 
launching All Together Now, a 
local take on a new reality singing 
competition format, produced by 
EndemolShine. In the UK, the show 
has already been recommissioned 
for a second series.

And then we head into the Summer 
of 7, and an unprecedented 
showcase of Men’s and Women’s 
Cricket. 

After a soft first half, Seven’s 
revenue in the financial year 
decreased 1.2 per cent. However, 
record breaking second half ratings 
delivered 10 per cent revenue 
growth versus the same period 
last year. This growth represents 
significant outperformance of the 
market, which was up 3.8 per cent 
in the second half.

Due to the uplift in AFL rights 
and licence fees, total costs 
increased by 1.7 per cent, though 
were offset at the Group level by 
the coordinated transformation 
program. Seven’s EBITDA of $240.4 
million was delivered at an 18.9 per 
cent margin. EBIT (Profit before 
significant items, net finance costs 
and tax) decreased 13.5 per cent to 
$216.0 million. This represents 86 
per cent of group EBIT, excluding 
corporate costs.

We also signed a content 
deal with 21st Century 
Fox, bringing us a mix of 
iconic and proven series.

21

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGROUP PERFORMANCE AND KEY OUTCOMES 
REVIEW OF OPERATIONS

Channel performance

Our revitalised schedule has resonated deeply with Australians. 

After 20 weeks of the 2018 ratings year– the half way mark – we have delivered outstanding results 
right across our suite of channels.

Even excluding the Commonwealth Games, as is traditional practice, we are dominating the ratings:

SEVEN NETWORK

#1 Network 
in total 
people
and all key demographics

Grown  
its share
of all key demographics 
compared to last year

Achieved 
the highest 
commercial 
ratings share
in history

Highest ever 
commercial 
share
in every key demographic

 ƒ 7 is the #1 channel  

in total people.

 ƒ 7 is the #1 channel in  
all key demographics.

 ƒ 7 has grown its YoY 

share of all  
key demographics. 

 ƒ 7TWO is the #1 FTA 
multi-channel in its 
target audience  
of People over 35. 
 ƒ 7TWO is the #2 FTA 
multi-channel in  
Total People. 

 ƒ 7TWO has increased 

its audience by around 
+4% YoY in Total  
People, P35+.

 ƒ 7mate is the #1 FTA 
multi-channel and 
leads the 16–39, 18–49, 
25–54 and men 16–54 
demographics.

 ƒ 7mate has grown its  

YoY audiences across 
all these targets and has 
its highest ever shares 
for Total People, People 
25–54 and Men 16–54.

 ƒ 7flix has maintained a 
similar audience share 
YoY in its target audience 
of Women 16–54, while 
increasing its share in 
People 25–54 and  
Men 16–54. 

 ƒ 7flix is the 4th ranked 

multi-channel in every 
key demographic.

22

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845RUNNING HEAD 
Sport

This financial year, Seven secured the key Australian Cricket broadcast rights through to 2024. 
Combined with the AFL, Seven now has the dominant summer and winter sports, providing long-term 
audience certainty for the network.

Over the course of the year, Seven affirmed its position as the premier producers of sports content in Australia, 
delivering a series of record-breaking sporting events.

Rugby League World Cup 2017 

 ƒ Seven’s 2017 broadcast reached 
9.9 million viewers nationally 
and delivered 13.3 million live 
streaming minutes.

 ƒ The Great Britain vs. Australia 
opening match last October 
delivered an average combined (metro and 
regional) viewers of 1.47 million and the  
Grand Final match reached 3.8 million 
viewers nationally and delivered a tournament 
high for online streaming with a million live 
streaming minutes viewed. 

Australian Open 2018

 ƒ Australian Open 2018 

reached over 14 million 
viewers nationally (56% of 
Australian population), with the Men’s Finals 
reaching 6.7 million viewers nationally.

 ƒ Online viewing during Australian Open 2018 
surpassed 2017 performance with 94.2 
million online live streaming minutes.

 ƒ Seven was the number one Network every 
night during the 14 days of the tournament, 
with Day 14 delivering a 41.7% Metro  
Free-To-Air Share in primetime.

PyeongChang 2018 Winter 
Olympic Games

 ƒ Seven rated number one 
during the 17 days of the 
Winter Olympics in every 
market and every key 
demographic. 

 ƒ Millions of Aussies enjoyed the Winter 

Olympics across many screens of Seven, 
with 16 million viewers reached, 103.8 million 
total minutes live streamed and 4.5 million 
cumulative reach on 7Olympics Social.

2018 Gold Coast 
Commonwealth Games

 ƒ Seven won every market, 

every day across every key 
demographic. 

 ƒ We reached 16.2 million viewers 
nationally with 160.4 million 
online live streaming minutes viewed.
 ƒ The Opening Ceremony was watched by 

2.8 million combined viewers, recording the 
biggest Opening Ceremony in over a decade.

23

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGROUP PERFORMANCE AND KEY OUTCOMES 
PERFORMANCE OF THE BUSINESS

Performance of the business
Seven  
Studios

A key area of strategic 
focus for Seven is the 
Seven Studios content 
division, creating and 
distributing content in 
Australia and around  
the globe. 

24

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845RUNNING HEADThis year the group created and produced more than 1000 hours of premium television from bases in 
Sydney, Los Angeles, Auckland and London across all genres. Our content has sold into 190 countries 
across the globe. Major projects included My Kitchen Rules, Border Security, House Rules and Home 
and Away, which is currently celebrating its 30th Anniversary.

In the past year, Israel and Georgia 
became the latest territories to 
produce local versions of My 
Kitchen Rules, joining Canada, 
Lithuania, Serbia, UK, South Africa, 
USA, Belgium, Denmark, Norway 
and New Zealand, which has now 
aired three series. The show is now 
seen in more than 160 countries. 

Seven Studios now has deals with 
numerous global TV giants including 
the BBC, ITV, Netflix, Discovery and 
Fox, and locally with Foxtel, which 
commissioned a sixth series of A 
Place Called Home. 

In 2017, Seven Studios acquired a 
majority ownership of Great Southern 
Television in Auckland to further 
complement the growing revenue 
stream from the division’s activities.

Having showing compound 
annual EBIT growth of 11.5 per 
cent since FY12, Seven Studios is 
now delivering sustained earnings 
growth, underpinned with annuity 
income streams from life of series 
deals. Seven Studios is looking 
forward to a seventh consecutive 
year of EBIT growth in FY19 and 
further expansion of our capabilities 
in this area.

SEVEN NETWORK

My Kitchen 
Rules 
is seen in more  
than 160 countries

Compound 
annual EBIT 
growth of  
11.5% 
since FY12

$51.9m

$52.2m

$56.1m

$38.8m

$34.4m

$43.2m

I

T
B
E

$29.2m

FY12

FY13

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18

25

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSPERFORMANCE OF THE BUSINESS
DIGITAL PLATFORMS

Performance of the business
Digital  
Platforms

26

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845At the end of 2017, Seven launched its over-the-top (OTT) long-form video platform 7plus, a 
critical milestone in the company’s strategy to deliver its content to viewers when, where and 
how they want it.

The launch was part of Seven’s 
direct-to-consumer strategy to fully 
control its digital content. Previously 
housed within Yahoo7, over the past 
two years Seven has regained full 
control of Premium Sports, Pacific’s 
and The West’s content, and its own 
long-form video. 

Seven announced its intention to 
sell its 50 per cent stake in Yahoo7 
to joint venture partner Oath. The 
return of all of Seven’s short form 
content early next year will mark  
the launch of new digital products 
for 7 News, Sunrise, The Morning 
Show, Sunday Night and 7Sport 
early next year.

Seven’s OTT audience is now  
2.6 million monthly average unique 
audience, driven by the 7plus 
platform, and Seven has achieved 
42.1 per cent revenue share of the 
BVOD market since the launch  
of 7plus.

In addition to Seven’s own created 
programs, it is commissioning and 
acquiring exclusive content for the 
platform. Seven has struck deals with 
the world’s best studios, including 
Fox and the BBC, so that 7plus now 
houses over 6,000 show episodes.

7plus is now available through every 
major technology, including web, 
mobile apps, Chromecast, Android 
TV, Telstra TV, Fetch, Samsung, 
PlayStation and Apple TV, and has 
a product and content roadmap to 
deliver material enhancements. 

2018 has seen 7plus deliver record-
breaking streaming numbers, most 
notably during our major sporting 
events. During the 2018 Gold Coast 
Commonwealth Games, 160.4 
million online live streaming minutes 
were viewed. At the half-way point 
of the 2018 calendar ratings year, 
Seven is the number one free-to-air 
for live streaming.

At the same time Seven is 
significantly improving its digital 
audience targeting capabilities, 
unifying its audience insights 
and data analytics across Seven, 
Pacific and The West, and signing 
third-party partnerships to further 
accelerate audience insights. 

These partnerships combined 
with Seven’s unique Addressable 
TV capability, Premium video 
content, logged in user insight and 
programmatic audience capability 
creates a powerful platform to 
connect with targeted audiences  
at scale.

The opportunity is significant, with 
7plus set to capitalise on a rapidly 
growing BVOD market. 

27

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGROUP PERFORMANCE AND KEY OUTCOMES 
PERFORMANCE OF THE BUSINESS

Performance of the business
The West

28

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845RUNNING HEADThe West has performed well in the context of challenging economic conditions in Western Australia 
and structural changes in print advertising. Local market conditions continue to be difficult, particularly 
for retailers, resulting in a very short advertising market. Although this year has been challenging,  
WA’s economic outlook is showing early signs of improvement.

Significant management change 
has taken place during the year, 
with the commencement of a new 
CEO, Revenue Director & Chief 
Marketing Officer. With this change 
is a strategic momentum to tackle 
the structural challenges facing the 
traditional print media. 

The West also has new commercial 
revenue initiatives underway to further 
utilise existing business assets. The 
business will continue to reduce 
its cost base in the coming year 
and implement efficiencies through 
automation, process improvement 
and greater asset utilisation.

The West is a leading digital 
publisher in WA with 1.3 million 
Unique Audience per month, up 
120 per cent this year, and digital 

revenue up 12 per cent this year. The 
relaunch of the PerthNow website 
in November 2017 is expected 
to generate continued growth in 
premium authenticated users. 

The West revenue declined 6.1 per 
cent to $204.1 million while EBIT fell 
19.0 per cent to $21.1 million. The 
business has maintained market 
leading operating margins despite 
current revenue trends with an 
EBITDA margin of 15.4 per cent 
achieved during the financial year. 
Operating costs increased 1.1 per 
cent in the period due to the current 
year including a full twelve months 
of costs for The Sunday Times and 
PerthNow, which was acquired in 
November 2016.

THE WEST

12% increase 
in digital revenue

1.3m Unique 
Audience 
per month

29

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGROUP PERFORMANCE AND KEY OUTCOMES 
PERFORMANCE OF THE BUSINESS

Performance of the business
Pacific

30

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845RUNNING HEADPacific has optimised the performance of its traditional magazine business to drive EBIT improvement, 
while at the same time accelerating its digital growth to establish a clear position as Australia’s best 
performing publisher, securing a 26 per cent share from just 12 titles.

Home to some of the country’s 
best-known brands and a focus 
on efficiency across four key areas 
– Product, People, Process and 
Partnerships – has helped Pacific 
counter the headwinds that have  
hit the print industry.

The company’s cost-out program 
has delivered $32.2 million in 
savings through the period, and 
it is these reductions that have 
helped fuel profit growth of 175 per 
cent this year. Pacific’s full-year 
EBIT finished at $9.6 million, from 
$3.5 million in FY17, with operating 
expenses down 20 per cent to 
$129.6 million.

At the same time, Pacific has 
invested in developing the 
publishing systems which have 
seen content output and quality 
increase across all channels,  
while costs have declined. 

On the digital side of the business, 
the integration of print and online 
content teams, with the capacity to 
fuel scale by publishing across key 
categories, has driven an audience 
increase of 23 per cent (Nielsen 
DRM). Just two years after assuming 

control of its digital assets, Pacific is 
now Australia’s number one women’s 
digital network.

This audience growth has been 
matched by digital revenue gains, 
with spending across Pacific’s brand 
sites also up 26.8 per cent. As a 
result of these increases, digital now 
represents approximately 27 per 
cent of all advertising revenue, and 
Pacific commands a 24.5 per cent 
share of all agency spend in the 
category, up 4.2 per cent in the  
year to May 2018.

In print, Pacific achieved two 
periods of readership growth 
throughout the year to maintain its 
place as Australia’s best-performing 
magazine publisher. The company 
has a 26 per cent share of all 
readership, despite having just 
12 measured titles. Pacific holds 
the leadership position in key 
readership categories, including 
Home & Lifestyle, Women’s 
Fashion, Men’s Lifestyle and Teens 
(emma™ conducted by Ipsos 
MediaCT, 12 months ending  
March 2018, People 14+). 

This performance has not, 
however, protected Pacific against 
prevailing print advertising trends, 
with the market continuing to 
decline. While Pacific remains the 
country’s number one publisher 
on a revenue-per-title basis, print 
advertising revenue was down in 
the period – accelerated through 
some title closures.

With a restructured business and 
realigned cost base, Pacific will 
continue to execute its strategy 
into FY19. Cost management will 
remain a focus, targeting a further 
reduction, as will the diversification 
opportunities that have driven new 
audience and revenues. 

Direct-to-consumer revenues 
through e-commerce, online 
subscriptions and training platforms 
have all extended the footprint 
of the brands, and seen non-
traditional revenue become a 
growth area and key part of the 
future plan. This has also ensured 
that the portfolio cemented its 
ownership of the key strategic 
categories in which it operates.

31

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSPerformance of the business
Other 
Businesses  
& New 
Ventures

Other Business & New Ventures assets include:
 ƒ equity accounted investments in associates including Yahoo7*; 
 ƒ regional radio licences in Western Australia as well as West Events.

New Ventures 

Yahoo7

Seven West Ventures holds a 
number of early stage investments 
where we leverage the power of our 
assets to unlock maximum growth 
potential and drive long-term value 
creation. The portfolio is focused 
on disruptive, scalable businesses 
with a strong consumer or media 
proposition. 

Over the last twelve months the 
value of our portfolio, which includes 
investments in Airtasker, Health 
Engine, SocietyOne, and Starts  
at 60, has grown by 22 per cent. 

In March, Seven West Media 
announced its intention to sell its  
50 per cent stake in Yahoo7 to Oath.  
The transaction is expected to be 
completed by October 2018 with 
new owned and operated digital 
products for 7 News, Sunrise,  
The Morning Show, Sunday Night 
and 7Sport to be re-launched  
early next year. 

* until reclassified to Asset Held for Sale  
(refer note 7.4 in the financial statements)

OTHER

Our portfolio 
has grown  
by 22%

New digital 
products 
for 7 News, Sunrise,  
The Morning Show,  
Sunday Night and 7Sport

32

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Corporate Social Responsibility
Risk, Environment 
& People

Risk Management

Seven West Media maintains sound risk management 
systems in order to protect and enhance shareholder 
value. The Board acknowledges that the management 
of business risk is an integral part of the Company’s 
operations and that a sound risk management 
framework not only helps to protect established value, 
it can also assist in identifying and capitalising on 
opportunities to create value. The table below sets out 
the key risks (in no particular order) which could impact 
achievement of the Company’s strategic objectives. 
These risks are actively monitored under our risk 
management framework and there are processes 
in place to manage each of them, to the extent 
possible. For more information on the Company’s risk 
management framework refer to pages 54 to 56 of the 
Corporate Governance Statement of this Annual Report.

Risk Management Framework

Revenue

 ƒ Structural change
 ƒ Regulatory change

Content/Product

 ƒ Competition for key program rights

Technology

 ƒ Strategy execution
 ƒ Compliance with legislation

People

 ƒ Talent attraction and retention
 ƒ Industrial relations 

Environment

Sustainability

Seven West Media monitors and measures the 
effectiveness of sustainable business practices across 
our businesses and sets internal targets to measure 
the impact of the inputs and outputs of our business 
activities on the communities and natural systems in 
which we operate. These include:

 ƒ The Group’s magazine and newspaper businesses 
have internal controls in place to ensure that the 
paper we use is from sustainable sources and not 
from illegally logged timber. 

 ƒ Pacific purchases all virgin fibre paper as PEFC 

C-o-C or FFC certified which assures that forests 
are managed in accordance with stringent 
environmental, social and economic requirements. 

 ƒ In FY17 99.5 per cent of newsprint used for  
The West Australian and The Sunday Times  
came from recycled consumer product and the 
remaining 0.5 per cent was sourced from certified 
plantation forests. 

 ƒ The West Australian and The Sunday Times printed 

waste measure is < 5 per cent per year and all waste 
was recycled. 

 ƒ In our press, waste ink is collected and reprocessed, 
aluminium plates used during the printing process 
are recycled and plant waste water is processed and 
used for reticulation on site. 

 ƒ The roll out of general co-mingled recycling bins has 
continued across the Seven West Media sites with 
the Media City site in Sydney the latest to separate 
recycling from landfill. 

 ƒ Greenhouse gas emission reporting is completed  

by 31 October each year for the prior Financial Year. 
For FY17:
 – Seven West Media recorded a reduction  

in greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1) by  
10.3 per cent between FY16 and FY17 mainly 
through outsourcing of helicopter operations  
and reduction in transport usage.
 – Seven West Media has reduced other 

greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 2) by  
3.5 per cent between FY16 and FY17.

33

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYCORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
RISK, ENVIRONMENT & PEOPLE

 –

For the fifth consecutive year Seven West Media 
has reduced greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 
1 + 2) a total reduction of 20.5 per cent from 
FY13 (41,296 tCO2e) to FY17 (32,801 tCO2e). 
 – With Overall Net Energy of 194 TJ, Seven West 
Media has dropped below the 200 TJ of Overall 
Net Energy corporate reporting threshold 
and with further building consolidations to be 
completed shall remain that way for at least the 
next three years. Seven West Media therefore 
has applied for deregistration from the scheme. 
 ƒ Seven West Media is actively reviewing its property 
portfolio with the aim to consolidate and optimise 
usage of space. By December 2018, Seven will 
have vacated its Pyrmont offices (~6,500m2) and 
relocated to an existing leasehold at its Media City 
office located in Eveleigh. The increase in staff 
numbers has been achieved by optimising the use of 
all floors in this Green Star 4 Star rated office. 
 ƒ Overall Net Energy (Consumed minus Produced) 
across our entire business has reduced by 4 per 
cent between FY16 and FY17 whilst maintaining the 
same operating conditions. Since FY13, Overall Net 
Energy has fallen 13.9 per cent. 

 ƒ FY18 saw Seven West Media donate or recycle 95 
per cent of electronic IT assets through certified 
eCycling companies which reduces landfill by 
encouraging reuse and recycling of equipment. All 
three suppliers are certified to AS/NZS 5377:2013.

People

At Seven West Media, the commitment, passion and 
creativity of our people underpin who we are and what 
we do. Seven West Media understands that our people 
ensure our success and therefore promotes workplaces 
that are safe, flexible, inclusive and that foster creativity.

Seven West Media is focused on attracting and 
retaining the best employees and to track its progress, 
Seven West Media participates in bi-annual employee 
engagement surveys which provide key insight into 
employee engagement and satisfaction, culture, 
leadership, teamwork as well as reward and recognition. 

Development of our people is one of our most important 
priorities to achieving our strategic objectives. Along 
with launching a refreshed annual performance 
and development framework which is underpinned 
by regular and meaningful conversations between 
managers and employees, this year Seven West Media 
has also implemented external and internal mentoring 
programs to provide emerging leaders and all staff 
opportunity to engage with an experienced mentor to 
guide them on their personal and professional journey. 

Seven West Media continues to support and encourage 
employees to contribute to worthy causes through its 
Workplace Giving program. Whether it is helping find a 
cure for disease, saving the environment or supporting 
people in crisis, Seven West Media encourages 
employees to work together as a business to help  
make an impact.

Seven West Media also continues to encourage its 
employees to make a difference through providing 
opportunities to participate in community fundraisers.  
An example of this has been the Perth Telethon which 
raised $36.4 million towards child health research, as  
well as much needed medical equipment, resources  
and critical services for the children of Western Australia.

Safety and Security

Providing a healthy and safe environment is also 
paramount to its people and culture priorities. Seven 
West Media is committed to building a positive health 
and safety culture, with a focus on personal wellness, 
injury prevention and the mitigation of risk. With a 
comprehensive mental health framework, strong 
risk management processes and engaging wellness 
initiatives, the business continues to strive to lead in 
safety. With the prevalence of mental health disorders 
in society generally, we have taken an active focus in 
building awareness and support for managing mental 
health in the workplace. Training has been tailored for 
managers and workers and will be delivered in a range 
of modalities. Further, the Company supports staff 
during overseas deployments wherever they might 
be, from war zone reporting in the Middle East to the 
PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games in South 
Korea.

Diversity Policy

The Company recognises the benefits of an inclusive 
and respectful workplace culture that draws on the 
experiences and perspectives of all employees  
and directors.

Diversity Commitments and Initiatives

During FY18, the Board reviewed the Company’s 
Diversity Policy and included additional content that:

 ƒ Articulates the corporate benefits of diversity in a 
competitive labour market and the importance of 
being able to attract, retain and motivate employees 
from the widest possible pool of available talent.
 ƒ Expresses the Company’s commitment to diversity 

at all levels.

34

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845 ƒ Recognises that diversity not only includes gender 
diversity but also includes matters of age, disability, 
cultural background, marital or family status, and 
other personal factors. 

 ƒ Emphasises that to have a properly functioning 
diverse workplace, discrimination, harassment, 
vilification and victimisation will not be tolerated.
 ƒ Ensures that recruitment and selection practices 
at all levels (from the Board downwards) are 
appropriately structured so that a diverse range 
of candidates are considered and that there are 
no conscious or unconscious biases that might 
discriminate against certain candidates.

 ƒ Identifies and implements programs that will assist 
in the development of a broader and more diverse 
pool of skilled and experienced employees that will 
over time prepare them for senior management and 
board positions.

 ƒ Recognises that employees (female and male) at all 
levels may have domestic responsibilities and adopt 
flexible work practices that will assist them to meet 
those responsibilities.

 ƒ Introduces key performance indicators for senior 

executives to measure the achievement of diversity 
objectives and link part of their remuneration (as 
part of the balanced scorecard approach) to the 
achievement of those objectives.

During the year, the Company have also been at the 
forefront of supporting diversity within the media 
industry and across the broader community, such as:

 ƒ Women In Media – The Company sponsored the 
inaugural Women In Media conference in October 
2017. This not-for-profit organisation supports equity, 
the importance of mentoring, and the power of 
networking for women in media.

 ƒ International Women’s Day – The Company was 

involved in several IWD initiatives around the country 
to help accelerate gender parity.

In FY19, the Company proposes to carry forward the 
diversity initiatives from previous years, continuing the 
focus in four key areas:

 ƒ Career development and performance (CDP);
 ƒ Flexible work practices (FWP);
 ƒ Gender diversity (GD); and
 ƒ Talent and succession planning (TSP).

Measurable Objectives

Unless otherwise stated, for the purpose of this section 
of the report, employee numbers and statistics have 
been calculated based on employees who were paid  
in the final pay periods of June 2018.

Measurable objective

Report on initiatives that facilitate diversity and promote growth for the 
Company and for all employees

Annual succession planning to consider  
diversity initiatives

Determine and report on employee turnover by age and gender and 
parental leave return rates

Determine and report on the proportion of women in the Company, in 
senior executive positions, and on the Board

Proportion of women

Group

In the Company

Key Management Personnel executives  
(as set out in section 2 of the remuneration report)

In senior executive positions

On the Board

Link to Diversity Policy

CDP

FWP

GD

TSP

Total 
number of 
employees/
officers

Number  
of women

2,328

4,528

1

36

1

6

63

10

Proportion 
of women

51%

17%

57%

10%

“Senior executive positions” refer to senior management positions which are levels one and two below the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer.

35

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYCORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
RISK, ENVIRONMENT & PEOPLE

Initiatives that Facilitate Diversity and Promote  
Growth for the Company and for all Employees

Gender Diversity

During FY18, the Company has reviewed key HR 
Policies to ensure compliance with employment, 
workplace health and safety, and other related 
legislation, with the intent to create a workplace where:

 ƒ It can be assured that legal requirements are  

being met.

 ƒ Best practices that are appropriate to the  
Company, are formally documented and 
implemented, and are accessible to employees.

 ƒ Management decisions and actions are  
consistent, uniform and predictable.

 ƒ Employees and the Company are protected  

from the pressures of expediency.
 ƒ The Company’s values are promoted.

Career Development & Performance

The Company has established policies to support 
strategies in the following areas:

 ƒ Attraction and Recruitment: Ensuring appropriate 

selection criteria based on diverse skills, experience 
and perspectives are used when recruiting new 
staff, including Board members. Job specifications, 
advertisements, application forms and contracts will 
not contain any direct or inferred discrimination. 

 ƒ Retention: Ensuring effective retention and 

engagement strategies are in place Company-
wide with the aim to decrease unwanted employee 
turnover. Initiatives include: onboarding and 
orientation; mentorship programs; competitive 
remuneration, recognition, and other reward 
processes; work-life balance; training and 
development; communication and feedback;  
dealing with change; fostering teamwork; and  
team celebrations.

 ƒ Performance Management: Ensuring that employees 
have a clear understanding of the work expected 
from them, receive ongoing feedback regarding 
how they are performing relative to expectations, 
distribute rewards accordingly, identify development 
opportunities, and address performance that does 
not meet expectations. The process empowers all 
employees to have greater input into their personal 
career progression and enables managers to 
identify, recognise, and reward individuals based 
upon an agreed set of objectives.

 ƒ Remuneration: Ensuring the Company provides fair, 
equitable competitive remuneration to employees, 
and supports our work culture. We completed a pay 
gap analysis to understand our overall pay gap and 
to inform us of imbalance between men and women, 
not just in leadership and higher-paying roles, but 
at all levels across the Company. The Company’s 
policy revisions aim to ‘future proof’ the document in 
terms of remuneration design and delivery, and keep 
in line with emerging best practice and stakeholder 
expectations. Remuneration is not just the direct 
amount of money paid to an employee. It also 
involves non-financial rewards and benefits.
 ƒ Learning and Development: The Company has 

established a set of initiatives to ensure that every 
employee’s development needs are reviewed at 
least annually and plans established to address any 
gaps. During the development of the annual budget, 
consideration is given to including appropriate 
resources to fund employee development. These 
initiatives include:
 –

Launch and deliver an all-employee  
mentoring program;

 – Define a mentor/ leadership program for  

30 senior leaders; and
Launch a skills-sharing program and platform.

 –

Employee Turnover by 
Gender and Age Statistics

Employee Turnover by Gender 
(as a percentage of total women and as 
a percentage of total men)

Employee turnover by age 
(as a percentage of total turnover)
<25 YEARS
25 – 34 YEARS

35 – 44 YEARS

13% 35% 23%

WOMEN

22%

MEN

19%

45 – 54 YEARS

> 55 YEARS

14% 14%

36

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845processes, where decisions associated with career 
advancement, including promotions, transfers, and 
other assignments, will meet the Company’s needs and 
be determined on skill and merit.

The Company has posted its Workplace Gender 
Equality Act Public Report for 2017–2018 on its  
website, which contains the Company’s Gender  
Equality Indicators.

Flexible Work Practices

The Company has continued to refine its flexible 
work practices by implementing arrangements that 
assist employees (both men and women) to balance 
work with family, carer or other responsibilities and 
providing a formal policy that support this initiative. In 
turn, it also ensures that the Company provides a safe 
work environment; one that is free from harassment, 
discrimination and victimisation, and promotes an 
inclusive workplace.

Talent & Succession Planning

Talent and succession planning continue to be 
critical components of annual reviews at an executive 
and senior executive level. This planning enables 
the Company to plan for the succession of 
critical positions and to ensure critical talent 
in the business is identified and the required 
development opportunities are outlined and 
addressed. Diversity criteria is considered in 
the context of talent and succession planning 

The Future of Television

Seven West Media is a founding 
stakeholder of the independent industry 
research and marketing group, Think TV. 

Think TV leads a collective effort from television 
broadcasters across Seven Network, Nine, 
Network Ten and Multi-Channel Network/Foxtel to 
demonstrate how television advertising in broadcast 
quality content environments remains profoundly 
effective and the clear leader among all media 
channels in terms of advertising impact, viewability 
and return on investment (“ROI”). Think TV is a 
research and marketing initiative of Australia’s leading 
commercial television broadcasters focused on 
helping the advertising and marketing community 

get the best out of multi-platform television, by 
innovating to make television inventory easier to buy 
and emphasising the measurable reach and quality 
of emotional engagement of the medium which is 
essential for building brands and connecting with 
target audiences. Think TV’s new initiatives in FY18 
included publication of new globally recognised 
research on television advertising ROI and the 
announcement of a proposed new television industry 
trading portal as part of the industry’s enablement of 
advanced television advertising solutions.

37

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITY 
Seven in the
Community

We are proud of the role we play every day in the lives  
of Australians, informing, inspiring and entertaining  
the many millions that engage with our content on  
our broadcast, OTT, digital and print platforms. 

We recognise that we are responsible not just for the 
economic consequences of our activities, but also for 
the social and environmental implications. Each of our 
divisions takes a proactive approach to contributing to 
the communities in which they operate.

At group level, one of our most important partnerships 
is that with the Australian War Memorial, which 
commemorates the sacrifice of those Australians who have 
died in war. We are honoured to support its mission is to 
assist Australians to remember, interpret and understand 
the Australian experience of war and its enduring impact 
on Australian society.

We are equally proud of our 23-year partnership with 
Art Exhibitions Australia, which this year partnered with 
the Art Gallery of South Australia to exhibit more than 
65 Impressionist masterpieces from the renowned 
collection of the Musée d’Orsay in Paris.

Throughout the year, we voluntarily broadcast free of 
charge community service announcements for a broad 
range of organisations and causes, including Creative 
Content Australia, Fight Cancer Foundation, The Big 
Issue, Gidget Foundation Australia and the National 
Gallery of Australia. Support comes from across many 
of our operations, including administration, scheduling 
and broadcast. 

In addition, we donate advertising airtime to numerous 
charitable organisations, including UN Ltd, The Million 
Dollar Lunch, Ronald McDonald House, Cerebral Palsy 
Alliance, the Brainwave Gala and the Children’s Cancer 
Institute Diamond Ball.

New South Wales

In Sydney, we are a major supporter of the Children’s Hospital at 
Westmead, Ronald McDonald House at Westmead, the NSW Schools 
Spectacular and the Sydney Swans in the AFL. 

We are a long-term partner of the Cancer Council NSW, Surf Life 
Saving in Cronulla, Manly and Narrabeen, the City of Sydney and the 
Royal Agricultural Society. 

We support major events, such as the Seven Bridges Walk and the 
Sydney Royal Easter Show, as well as many local community events, 
including Fairfield Council’s Cabramatta Moon Festival, Liverpool and 
Penrith Council’s Australia Day and New Year’s Eve events.

38

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITYSouth Australia

In Adelaide, we have partnered 
with major sporting and community 
organisations, including the South 
Australian Football League, Adelaide 
Crows Football Club, Port Adelaide 
Football Club, South Australian Football 
Federation and South Australian Surf 
Life Saving Clubs.

We support performances at the 
Adelaide Festival Centre, Adelaide 
Cabaret Festival, the Art Gallery of 
South Australia, the Adelaide Symphony 
Orchestra, the State Library and the two 
largest Fringe Festival venues.

We also proudly support a number 
of local charities and community 
organisations, including The 
Flinders Medical Centre Foundation, 
Breakthrough Mental Health Research 
Foundation, The Advertiser Foundation, 
Little Heroes Foundation, Carols by 
Candlelight benefiting Novita Children’s 
Services and the Royal Flying Doctor 
Service. Many of our Presenters are 
also Patrons of these charities.

In addition, we established the Channel 
7 Children’s Research Foundation of 
South Australia Incorporated in 1976. 
The Foundation has facilitated grants 
to child health researchers in SA, 
totalling more than $24 million, with the 
purpose of encouraging and advancing 
investigations into the cause, prevention, 
diagnosis and treatment of conditions 
impacting the health of children.

39

Victoria

We are proud to be a Principal Partner of the Good Friday 
Appeal which brings together the community to raise 
money for the Royal Children’s Hospital. 2018 marked the 
87th Appeal, with more than $18 million raised. Over the 
course of its history the Appeal has contributed over $345 
million to The Royal Children’s Hospital.

We also value our long-term partnerships with the City of 
Melbourne, the Moomba Parade, the Royal Melbourne 
Show, the Melbourne International Flower and Garden 
Show, Very Special Kids and the National Gallery of Victoria. 

In addition, we support the Cure for MND Foundation 
through the highly successful Big Freeze campaign, and 
the EJ Whitten Foundation’s Legends Game.

Queensland

In Brisbane and across Queensland, we support a range 
of sporting organisations and events, including the Gold 
Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions AFL teams, the Channel 7 
Brisbane Racing Carnival, Channel 7 Ipswich Cup, Cairns 
Amateurs Carnival and Magic Millions, the 7 Sunshine 
Coast Marathon and 7 Rocky River Run, as well as the 
Queensland Sport Awards.

We also support a number of major community events, 
including the Royal Queensland Show, the Paniyiri Greek 
Festival and the CitySmart Greenheart Fair.

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYWestern Australia

We are very proud of our 50-year partnership with 
the Telethon. Following a record-breaking year in 
2017, Western Australians have raised more than 
$268 million for the kids of Western Australia over the 
course of the Telethon’s history. The money raised has 
helped make significant advances in treating some 
of the life threatening diseases that face our children 
today. Telethon has also allowed for the provision of 
equipment, resources and critical services for children 
across WA.

Telethon is one of many initiatives we do that give 
back to the WA community across the sport, arts 
and not-for-profit sectors. These contributions include 
the Christmas Pageant, Australia Day Skyworks, 

The Perth Festival, The West Australian Symphony 
Orchestra, The City to Surf, The West Coast 
Eagles, The Fremantle Dockers and many more 
organisations.

Pacific

For over a decade, we have partnered with Ronald 
McDonald House, a charity attached to major women’s 
and children’s hospitals providing a home away from 
home for seriously ill children and their families. 

In November 2017, marie claire partnered with The 
Gidget Foundation to raise funds and awareness 
of perinatal anxiety and depression. The Gidget 
Foundation provides support services for new 
families struggling with parenthood. 

marie claire also partnered with the Ovarian Cancer 
Research Foundation (OCRF) for its annual White Shirt 
Campaign with Witchery. The campaign celebrated 10 
years in 2018 and raised over $1.4 million to support 
and sustain vital research projects into developing an 
early detection test for ovarian cancer. 

We have a longstanding reputation for celebrating 
Australian women of achievement. Women’s Health 
Women in Sport (WinS) is the only campaign of its 

kind, celebrating and supporting female athletes from 
grassroots through to elite year round, commencing 
with the WinS mentoring sessions and culminating in 
the Gala Awards in October. 

InStyle marked a decade of innovation and style in 
May, with the annual Women of Style Awards. These 
awards recognise women who are shifting the dial in a 
diverse range of fields, from charity and community, to 
sport and science. 

That’s life! launched the ‘Protect Our Kids’ petition that 
aims to get all five meningococcal vaccines available to 
children on the PBS. The petition has been signed by 
over 17,000 Australians over a four month period and 
will continue to campaign until the goal is reached.

We have also been members of the Environmental 
Advisory Group of the Newspaper Works (formally 
Publisher’s National Environment Board) since 
2004. The Group endeavours to make a significant 
contribution to waste publication paper recovery, 
recycling and the environment.

40

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITYBoard of Directors

Kerry Stokes AC
Chairman – Non-executive Director

Tim Worner
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer

Mr Stokes is the Executive Chairman of Seven Group 
Holdings Limited, a company with a market-leading 
presence in the resources services sector in Australia and 
formerly in north east China and a significant investment 
in energy and also in media in Australia through Seven 
West Media. Mr Stokes has held this position since April 
2010. He is also Chairman of Australian Capital Equity 
Pty Limited, which has substantial interests in media and 
entertainment, resources, energy, property, pastoral and 
industrial activities. 

Mr Stokes’ board memberships include Council Member 
for the Paley Group (formerly the International Council 
for Museum & Television); Chairman and Fellow (since 
November 2015) for the Australian War Memorial 
(previously a Council Member); and a former Chairman 
of the National Gallery of Australia. Mr Stokes holds 
professional recognitions which include an Honorary 
Doctorate in Commerce at Edith Cowan University and 
an Honorary Fellow of Murdoch University.

Mr Stokes has, throughout his career, been the recipient 
of awards, including Life Membership of the Returned 
Services League of Australia; 1994 Paul Harris Rotary 
Fellow Award; 1994 Citizen of Western Australia for 
Industry & Commerce; 2002 Gold Medal award from 
the AIDC for Western Australian Director of the Year; 
2007 Fiona Stanley Award for outstanding contribution 
to Child Health Research; 2009 Richard Pratt Business 
Arts Leadership Award from the Australian Business Arts 
Foundation; and 2011 Charles Court Inspiring Leadership 
Award; 2013 West Australian of the Year; 2014 Awarded 
Keys to the City of Perth and 2014 Awarded Keys to the 
City of Melbourne.

Mr Stokes was awarded Australia’s highest honour, the 
Companion in the General Division in the Order of Australia 
(AC) in 2008. In 1995, he was recognised as Officer in the 
General Division of the Order of Australia (AO).

Mr Stokes was appointed to the Board on 25 September 
2008, and became Chairman of Seven West Media 
Limited (formerly West Australian Newspaper Holdings 
Ltd) on 11 December 2008.

Mr Worner is Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer 
of Seven West Media Limited.

He is also a Director of Yahoo7, Free TV Australia and 
racing.com.

Prior to his appointment as CEO of Seven West Media 
Limited (SWM), Mr Worner was CEO, Broadcast 
Television, and prior to that Director of Programming and 
Production for the Seven Network.

As CEO of SWM, Mr Worner has overseen the growth of 
the Seven Network from a single channel to the multi-
channel ecosystem comprising Seven, 7TWO, 7mate, 
7flix and racing.com. He also leads the company’s 
sporting rights negotiations, securing long-term deals  
for the AFL, Cricket and Olympics.

Under his leadership, SWM’s production division Seven 
Studios has grown to become Australia’s biggest 
producer of premium content. This year Seven Studios 
commissioned, created and produced more than 800 
hours of premium television across all genres, which is 
now viewed in 190 countries across the globe.

Mr Worner is also responsible for the company’s multi-
platform publishing businesses The West and Pacific. 
The West publishes leading news brands The West 
Australian, The Sunday Times, thewest.com.au and 
PerthNow.com.au, which together reach 72% of the WA 
population every month. Pacific is Australia’s #1 women’s 
lifestyle multi-platform publisher, with titles including 
Better Homes and Gardens, New Idea, WHO, that’s life!, 
marie claire and InStyle.

Mr Worner also leads Seven’s increasing online and 
new media presence, including over-the-top digital 
video platform 7plus, which encompasses live and on 
demand, extended library content and exclusive original 
commissions, and investments in new businesses 
including Airtasker, SocietyOne, Health Engine and Starts 
at 60.

In 2014 Mr Worner was awarded the MIPTV Médaille 
d’Honneur Award for his achievements in the television 
industry. He is the former Chairman of Australian News 
Channel, which produced Sky News in Australia, and a 
former director of the Sydney Swans, Airtasker and Presto.

Mr Worner was appointed to the Board on 24 June 2015.

41

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

John Alexander
Non-executive Director

David Evans
Non-executive Director

Mr Alexander was the Executive Chairman of 
Consolidated Media Holdings Limited (CMH) from 2007 
to November 2012, when CMH was acquired by News 
Corporation. Prior to 2007, Mr Alexander was the Chief 
Executive Officer and Managing Director of Publishing 
and Broadcasting Limited (PBL) from 2004, the Chief 
Executive of ACP Magazines Limited from 1999 and 
PBL’s group media division comprising ACP Magazines 
Limited and the Nine Network from 2002. Before joining 
the PBL Group, Mr Alexander was the Editor-in-Chief, 
Publisher & Editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and 
Editor-in-Chief of The Australian Financial Review.

Mr Alexander has previously acted as a director 
of a number of media companies including Foxtel 
Management Pty Limited, Fox Sports Australia Pty 
Limited, SEEK Limited, Carsales.com Limited and 
Ninemsn Pty Limited. Mr Alexander is the Executive 
Chairman of listed company Crown Resorts Limited. He 
is also the Chairman of the Crown Melbourne Limited 
and Burswood Limited Boards.

Mr Evans is the Executive Chairman of Evans Dixon Pty 
Ltd. Mr Evans established Evans and Partners Pty Ltd, 
the investment advisory company in June 2007.

Since 1990, he has worked in a variety of roles within 
JB Were & Son, and then the merged entity Goldman 
Sachs JBWere Pty Ltd. Prior to establishing Evans 
and Partners Mr Evans ran Goldman Sachs JBWere’s 
Private Wealth business and the Institutional Equities 
business. His most recent role at GSJBW was as 
Managing Director and Chief of Staff. 

Mr Evans is a member of the Victorian Police Corporate 
Advisory Group and Chairman of Cricket Australia’s 
Investment Committee.

Mr Evans was formerly Chairman of the Audit & Risk 
Committee and is a member of the Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee. 

Mr Evans was appointed to the Board on 21 August 2012.

Mr Alexander is Chairman of the Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee.

Peter Gammell
Non-executive Director

Mr Alexander was appointed to the Board on  
2 May 2013.

Teresa Dyson
Non-executive Director

Ms Dyson is an experienced company director, with a 
broad range of experience across public and private 
sectors. Ms Dyson has been closely involved in strategic 
decision making in business and organisational structuring, 
covering the financial services, transport, energy and 
resources sectors, as well as infrastructure projects. 

Ms Dyson is currently a director of Power & Water 
Corporation (NT), Energy Queensland, Genex Power 
Limited, Gold Coast Hospital and Health Board, Fare 
Limited, UN Women National Committee Australia Ltd 
and Opera Queensland and is a member of the Foreign 
Investment Review Board and the Takeovers Panel.

Ms Dyson holds a Masters of Applied Finance from 
Macquarie University. She graduated with a Bachelor 
of Laws (Honours), a Bachelor of Arts and a Masters 
of Taxation from the University of Queensland and is a 
graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Mr Gammell was the Deputy Chairman of Australian 
Capital Equity Pty Limited, the investment holding 
company associated with Mr Kerry Stokes AC, and was 
on the Board of Seven Group Holdings Limited from 
February 2010 until 28 June 2013 and was Managing 
Director and Group Chief Executive Officer from April 
2010 until 28 June 2013.

Prior to the formation of Seven West Media Limited,  
Mr Gammell served as a Director of Seven Network 
Limited for 14 years. He was Chairman of the Seven 
Network Limited Finance Committee and was a member 
of the Audit Committee. He was the Chairman of Coates 
Hire, Australia’s largest equipment hire company.

Mr Gammell is a former Director of Federal Capital Press 
Pty Ltd, the publisher of the Canberra Times (1989 
to 1998) and is a former Director of the Community 
Newspaper Group (1996 to 1998). Between 10 
September 2009 and 19 November 2012, Mr Gammell 
was a Director of Consolidated Media Holdings Limited.

Mr Gammell is a member of the Institute of Chartered 
Accountants of Scotland and holds a Bachelor of 
Science degree from the University of Edinburgh.

Ms Dyson is Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee.

Mr Gammell is a member of the Audit & Risk Committee.

Ms Dyson was appointed to the Board on  
2 November 2017.

Mr Gammell was appointed to the Board on  
25 September 2008.

42

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845The Hon. Jeffrey Kennett AC
Non – executive Director

Ryan Stokes
Non – executive Director

Mr Stokes is Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer 
of Seven Group Holdings Limited (SGH). SGH owns 
approximately 41% of SWM. 

Mr Stokes has been a Director of Seven West Media 
Limited (SWM) since 2012 and was an Executive Director 
and then Chairman of Pacific Magazines from 2004 to 
2008 and a Director of Yahoo7 from 2005 to 2013. 

Mr Stokes is a Director of WesTrac, Chairman of Coates 
Hire, and a Director of Beach Energy.

Mr Stokes is Chief Executive Officer of Australian Capital 
Equity Pty Limited (ACE). ACE is a private company with 
its primary investment being an interest in SGH. 

Mr Stokes was appointed Chairman of the National 
Gallery of Australia on 9 July 2018.

Mr Stokes is the former Chairman of the National Library 
of Australia. He is also a member of the Prime Ministerial 
Advisory Council on Veterans Mental Health established 
in 2014. 

In 2015, he became a Committee member of 
innovationXchange (within the Department of Foreign 
Affairs and Trade), which provides strategic guidance on 
innovation in aid programs. He is also a member of the IOC 
Olympic Education Commission.

Mr Stokes holds a BComm from Curtin University and is  
a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management (FAIM).

Mr Stokes is a member of the Remuneration &  
Nomination Committee.

Mr Stokes was appointed to the Board on 21 August 2012.

Mr Kennett AC is the founding Chairman of beyondblue: 
the national depression initiative and was Chairman  
from 2000 until 30 June 2017. He is Chairman of The 
Torch, a program assisting incarcerated indigenous  
men and women. 

Mr Kennett was an Officer in the Royal Australian 
Regiment, serving at home and overseas. He was a 
Member of the Victorian Parliament for 23 years, and was 
Premier of the State from 1992 to 1999. Prior to that, he 
was Leader of the Opposition 1982-1989; 1991-1992. 

Mr Kennett is currently the Chairman of EQT Holdings 
Limited, Chairman of Open Windows Australia Proprietary 
Limited, Chairman of CT Management Group Pty Ltd and 
Chairman of Amtek Corporation Pty Ltd.

In 2005 Mr Kennett was awarded the Companion  
of the Order of Australia.

Mr Kennett is a member of the Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee.

Mr Kennett was appointed to the Board on 24 June 2015.

Michael Malone
Non – executive Director

Mr Malone founded iiNet Limited in 1993 and continued 
as CEO until retiring in 2014. During his tenure, iiNet grew 
to service one million households and businesses, with 
revenues of one billion dollars and a market cap of over 
one billion dollars. 

Mr Malone has been recognised with a raft of industry 
accolades, including 2012 Australian Entrepreneur of the 
Year, CEO of the Year in the Australian Telecom Awards 
and National Customer Service CEO of the Year in the 
CSIA’s Australian Service Excellence Awards. 

He presently sits on the board as a non-executive 
Director of NBN Co and ASX listed SpeedCast Limited, 
Dreamscape Networks Limited and is the Chairman on 
Superloop Limited. Mr Malone is a founder of Diamond 
Cyber, an IT security firm in Perth.

Mr Malone is a member of the Audit & Risk Committee.

Mr Malone was appointed to the Board on 24 June 2015.

43

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Michael Ziegelaar
Non-executive Director

Warren Coatsworth
Company Secretary

Mr Ziegelaar is a senior partner of global law firm 
Herbert Smith Freehills, where he is the Co-Head of 
Australian Equity Capital Markets. He specialises in 
corporate, equity capital markets and M&A transactions 
and has acted for a wide range of clients across  
various industries.

Mr Ziegelaar is also a non-executive director of the 
Burnet Institute.

He holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons), a Bachelor of 
Economics (majoring in Accounting and Corporate 
Finance) and a Master of Laws (majoring in Commercial 
Law) from Monash University.

Mr Ziegelaar was appointed to the Board on  
2 November 2017.

Mr Coatsworth has been Company Secretary since  
24 April 2013.

Mr Coatsworth is a solicitor holding a current practising 
certificate with degrees in Arts and Law (Hons) from the 
University of Sydney. He holds a Masters of Law in Media 
and Technology Law from the University of New South 
Wales as well as a Graduate Diploma in Applied Corporate 
Governance. He is a qualified Chartered Company 
Secretary and a Fellow and member of the Governance 
Institute of Australia. 

Mr Coatsworth has been Company Secretary of Seven 
Group Holdings Limited since April 2010 and Company 
Secretary of Seven Network Limited since July 2005. He 
has extensive experience as Legal Counsel at the Seven 
Network advising broadly across the company, and was 
formerly a solicitor at Clayton Utz. 

44

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Corporate Governance Statement

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 

This statement outlines the Company’s main corporate 
governance practices that were in place throughout 
the financial year and, unless otherwise stated, its 
compliance with the 3rd edition of the ASX Corporate 
Governance Council Corporate Governance Principles 
and Recommendations (“ASX Recommendations”). 

As part of the periodic review of its Board and 
Committee Charters during the financial year, the 
Company took a proactive approach to identifying areas 
of emerging developments in corporate governance, 
as raised in the draft 4th edition ASX Corporate 
Governance Council Corporate Governance Principles 
and Recommendations released on 8 May 2018 (“Draft 
4th Edition ASX Recommendations”). The resulting 
amendments to the Board and Committee Charters are 
aligned with emerging market expectations and reflect 
many of the responsibilities and processes that the 
Board and its Committees were already undertaking. 

Reporting of compliance within this Corporate 
Governance Statement remains against the 3rd 
edition of the ASX Recommendations, however 
reference is also made herein to corporate governance 
enhancements which relate to the Draft 4th Edition ASX 
Recommendations. The Board will continue to review 
developments in corporate governance as part of its 
periodic review of governance at the Company. 

The documents marked with an * below have been 
posted in the ‘Corporate Governance’ section on the 
Company’s website at www.sevenwestmedia.com.au/ 
about-us/corporate-governance. Those policies which are 
not separately available on the Company’s website are 
summarised in this statement. A copy of this statement  
will be made available on the Company’s website.

Principle 1 – Lay Solid Foundations for 
Management and Oversight

Role and responsibilities of the Board

The Board is empowered to manage the business of 
the Company subject to the Corporations Act and the 
Company’s Constitution*. The Board is responsible for 
the overall corporate governance of the Company and 
has adopted a Board Charter* setting out the role and 
responsibilities of the Board.

The Board Charter provides that the Board’s  
role includes: 

 ƒ representing and serving the interests of 

shareholders by overseeing, reviewing and 
appraising the Company’s strategies, policies and 
performance in accordance with any duties and 
obligations imposed on the Board by law and the 
Company’s Constitution; 

 ƒ contributing to, and approving, management’s 

development of corporate strategy and performance 
objectives and monitoring management’s performance 
and implementation of strategy and policies; 

 ƒ reviewing and monitoring systems of risk 

management and internal control and ethical and 
legal compliance, including reviewing procedures 
to identify the main risks associated with the 
Company’s businesses and the implementation of 
appropriate systems to manage these risks; 

 ƒ monitoring and reviewing management processes 

aimed at ensuring the integrity of financial reporting, 
financial controls and other reporting; 

 ƒ developing a Board skills matrix setting out the mix 
of skills that the Board currently has or is looking to 
achieve in its membership; 

 ƒ approving the entity’s statement of core values;
 ƒ demonstrating leadership by approving the Company’s 
purpose, strategic objectives and code of conduct for 
directors, senior executives and employees;
 ƒ developing and reviewing corporate governance 

principles and policies and monitoring compliance 
with those principles and policies to underpin and 
instil the desired culture within the Company and 
reinforce a culture across the Company of acting 
lawfully, ethically and in a socially responsible manner;

 ƒ ensuring Management has formal and rigorous 
processes in place to validate the quality and 
integrity of the Company’s corporate reporting; and
 ƒ in accordance with the Company’s Diversity Policy, 
reviewing, on an annual basis, the report prepared 
by the Remuneration & Nomination Committee 
outlining the relative proportion of women and men 
on the Board, in senior management positions and 
in the workforce at all levels of the Group.

The Board Charter provides that matters which are 
specifically reserved for the Board or its Committees 
include:

 ƒ appointment and removal of the Group Chief 

Executive Officer;
 ƒ approval of dividends; 
 ƒ approval of annual budget;
 ƒ monitoring capital management and approval of 

capital expenditure, acquisitions and divestitures in 
excess of authority levels delegated to management; 

 ƒ the establishment of Board Committees, their 
membership and delegated authorities; and

 ƒ calling of meetings of shareholders.

45

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Board Committees 

Employment of executives 

The Board is assisted in carrying out its responsibilities 
by the Audit & Risk Committee and the Remuneration 
& Nomination Committee. These standing Committees 
were established by the Board to allow detailed 
consideration of complex issues.

Each Committee has its own written Charter*, which 
is reviewed on an annual basis and is available on the 
Company’s website. Further details regarding the Audit 
& Risk Committee and the Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee are set out under “Principle 4 – Safeguard 
Integrity in Corporate Reporting” and “Principle 2 – 
Structure the Board to Add Value”, respectively,  
in this Corporate Governance Statement. 

The Directors’ Report at page 59 sets out the  
number of Board and Committee meetings held during 
the 2018 financial year under the heading “Directors’ 
Meetings”, as well as the attendance of Directors at 
those meetings. 

Delegation to Management

Subject to oversight by the Board and the exercise 
by the Board of functions which it is required to carry 
out under the Company’s Constitution, Board Charter 
and the Corporations Act, it is the role of management 
to carry out functions that are expressly delegated to 
management by the Board, as well as those functions 
not specifically reserved to the Board, as it considers 
appropriate, including those functions and affairs which 
pertain to the day-to-day management of the operations 
and administration of the Company.

Management is responsible for implementing the 
policies, business model and strategic objectives 
approved by the Board. Management must supply 
the Board with information in a form, timeframe and 
quality that will enable the Board to discharge its duties 
effectively. The Company has adopted a Delegated 
Authority Policy, which delegates to management 
the authority to carry out expenditure in relation to 
specified areas of the Company’s operations, subject 
to the Company’s policies and procedures in respect 
of the authorisation and signing of Company contracts, 
which includes a system of legal review. Management 
is charged with promulgating the Company’s values 
across the organisation.

The functions exercised by the Board and those 
delegated to management, as explained in this 
statement and set out in the Board Charter, are subject 
to ongoing review to ensure that the division of functions 
remains appropriate. 

Company executives are each employed under written 
employment agreements, which set out the terms of 
their employment, including role and duties, the person 
to whom they report, remuneration, obligations of 
confidentiality, and the circumstances in which  
the executive’s employment may be terminated.

Prior to the commencement of employment, the 
Company undertakes appropriate background checks 
on new senior executives.

Appointment of Directors 

The Board has established a Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee to assist in the appointment  
of new Directors. 

Further information concerning this Committee is set out 
under “Principle 2 – Structure the Board to Add Value” 
in this statement. The Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee periodically review the composition of the 
Board to ensure that the Board has an appropriate 
mix of expertise and experience. This review includes 
considering the appointment of new Directors and the 
re-election of incumbent Directors to the Board. An 
output of this process is the Board skills matrix set out 
under “Principle 2 – Structure the Board to Add Value”.

The policy and procedure for the selection and 
appointment of new Directors is set out in an Annexure 
to the Board Charter. The factors that will be considered 
when reviewing a potential candidate for Board 
appointment include: 

 ƒ the skills, experience, expertise and personal 
qualities that will best complement Board 
effectiveness, including a deep understanding of 
the media industry, corporate management and 
operational, safety and financial matters; 
 ƒ the existing composition of the Board, having 

regard to the factors outlined in the Company’s 
Diversity Policy and the objective of achieving a 
Board comprising Directors from a diverse range of 
backgrounds; 

 ƒ the capability of the candidate to devote the 

necessary time and commitment to the role (this 
involves a consideration of matters such as other 
board or executive appointments); and 

 ƒ potential conflicts of interest and independence. 

The Board believes the management of the Company 
benefits from, and it is in the interests of shareholders 
for Directors on the Board to have, a mix of tenures 
such that some Directors have served on the Board for 
a longer period and have a deeper understanding of the 
Company and its operations, and new Directors bring 
fresh ideas and perspectives.

46

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845As part of the selection and appointment process: 

Company Secretary

 ƒ the Board, and if so requested the Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee, identify potential Director 
candidates, with the assistance of external search 
organisations as appropriate; 

 ƒ background information in relation to each potential 

candidate is provided to all Directors; 

 ƒ appropriate background checks are undertaken 

before appointing a Director, or putting forward to 
shareholders a Director candidate for election; and
 ƒ an invitation to be appointed as a Director is made 

by the Chairman after having consulted all Directors, 
with recommendations from the Remuneration 
& Nomination Committee (if any) having been 
circulated to all Directors.

Appointed Directors receive a formal letter of appointment 
which set out terms of their appointment, and attaching 
remuneration entitlements and the Company’s Corporate 
Governance Policies, including the Company’s Share 
Trading Policy, which Directors are to abide by. Under the 
letter of appointment, Directors are also provided with a 
schedule of Board meetings, Deeds of Indemnity & Access 
and a summary of Director insurance arrangements.

New Director appointments during the year

During the year, the Board undertook a review of the 
Board’s structure and composition, and on 2 November 
2017 appointed two Independent Directors, Ms Teresa 
Dyson and Mr Michael Ziegelaar, to the Board. 

The Board considers that these appointments add 
further depth and strength to the Board, and that each 
of these Directors will make a valuable contribution to 
the Company in terms of skills and experience.

Election and re-election of Directors

Directors appointed to fill casual vacancies hold office 
until the next Annual General Meeting and are then 
eligible for election by shareholders. In addition, each 
Director must stand for re-election at the third Annual 
General Meeting since they were last elected. Under 
the Company’s Constitution, one-third of the Board 
(excluding the Managing Director and any Directors 
standing for election for the first time) must retire by 
rotation at each Annual General Meeting.

The Notice of Meeting for the Annual General  
Meeting discloses material information about Directors 
seeking election or re-election, including appropriate 
biographical details and qualifications, and other key 
current directorships.

The Company Secretary’s role is to support the Board’s 
effectiveness by: 

 ƒ helping to organise and facilitate the induction and 

professional development of directors;
 ƒ monitoring whether Company policies and 

procedures are followed; 

 ƒ ensuring that the business at Board and Committee 
meetings is accurately captured in the minutes; 
 ƒ advising the Board and Committees on governance 

matters; and 

 ƒ coordinating the timely distribution of Board and 
Committee agendas and briefing materials.

The decision to appoint or remove a Company 
Secretary is made or approved by the Board. The 
Company Secretary is accountable to the Board 
through the Chairman on all matters to do with the 
proper functioning of the Board. Each of the Directors 
has access to the Company Secretary. 

Board, Committee and Director  
performance evaluation 

The Chairman closely monitors the performance and 
actions of the Board and its Committees. During the 
financial year, Directors completed a Board Evaluation 
questionnaire concerning Board, Committee and 
Director, including Chairman, performance from which 
aggregated data and responses are provided to the 
Chairman and then presented to the Board for discussion 
and feedback. The Board Evaluation questionnaire 
provides an opportunity for the Board to benchmark 
results year-on-year and to identify Board performance 
priorities, governance framework gaps and improve the 
effectiveness of meetings and Company processes. 

The aggregated questionnaire results also provide the 
basis of individual discussions between Directors and 
the Chairman. The Chairman and each Board member 
consider the performance of that Board member in 
relation to the expectations for that Board member 
and consider any opportunities for enhancing future 
performance. Matters which may be taken into account 
include the expertise and responsibilities of the Board 
member and their contribution to the Board and any 
relevant Committees and their functions.

Additionally, during the financial year, a report on the 
program of work undertaken by the Board and each 
of its Committees, assessed against their respective 
Charter responsibilities and duties, is provided to the 
Board for discussion and for the purposes of reviewing 
performance of the Board and the Committees, as 
well as their Charters, to ensure that the Board and its 
Committees operate effectively and efficiently. 

47

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

During the reporting period, performance evaluations of 
the Board, its Committees and individual Directors were 
carried out in accordance with this process.

Assessment of management performance

The performance of the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer is formally reviewed by the Board 
against the achievement of strategic and budgetary 
objectives in respect of the Group’s operations and 
investments whilst also having regard for his personal 
performance in the leadership of the Group. The 
Board’s review is carried out annually in regard to 
certain goals against which he is assessed, and 
throughout the year in regard to others, and forms the 
basis of the determination of the Managing Director 
& Chief Executive Officer’s performance-linked 
remuneration. The Remuneration Report sets out 
further details of the performance criteria against which 
the Managing Director’s & Chief Executive Officer’s 
performance-linked remuneration is assessed on  
pages 62 to 80.

The performance of senior executives of the 
Company is reviewed on an annual basis in a formal 
and documented interview process with either the 
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer or the 
particular executive’s immediate superior. Performance 
is evaluated against agreed performance goals and 
assessment criteria in relation to the senior executive’s 
duties and material areas of responsibility, including 
management of relevant business units within budget, 
motivation and development of staff, and achievement 
of and contribution to the Company’s objectives.

A performance evaluation of the Managing Director & 
Chief Executive Officer and other senior executives took 
place during the year in accordance with this process. 
For further information about the performance-related 
remuneration of senior executives and staff, please see 
the discussion set out under “Principle 8 – Remunerate 
Fairly and Responsibly”.

Diversity policy

The Board recognises the benefits of a workplace 
culture that is inclusive and respectful of diversity. The 
Board values diversity in relation to age, gender, cultural 
background and ethnicity and recognises the benefits it 
can bring to the organisation. The Board has adopted a 
Diversity Policy* that sets out the Board’s commitment 
to working towards achieving an inclusive and respectful 
environment. Please refer to pages 34 to 37 of this 
Annual Report for reporting on the Diversity Policy and 
the measurable objectives and initiatives relating thereto.

Principle 2 – Structure the Board to Add Value

Board composition

The Company’s Constitution provides for a minimum of 
three Directors and a maximum of twelve Directors on 
the Board. As at the date of this statement, the Board 
comprises ten Directors, including nine Non-Executive 
Directors and the Managing Director & Chief Executive 
Officer.

The Non-Independent Directors in office are:

 ƒ Mr Kerry Stokes AC, Chairman
 ƒ Mr Tim Worner, Managing Director &  

Chief Executive Officer 
 ƒ Mr Peter Gammell, Director 
 ƒ Mr Ryan Stokes, Director

The Independent Directors in office are:

 ƒ Mr John Alexander, Director
 ƒ Ms Teresa Dyson, Director
 ƒ Mr David Evans, Director 
 ƒ Mr Jeffrey Kennett AC, Director 
 ƒ Mr Michael Malone, Director
 ƒ Mr Michael Ziegelaar, Director

Dr Michelle Deaker was a Director throughout the 
financial year until her retirement and resignation on 2 
November 2017.

The qualifications, experience, expertise and period 
in office of each Director of the Company at the date 
of this Annual Report are disclosed in the Board of 
Directors section of this Annual Report on pages  
41 to 43. 

Board independence

The Board acknowledges the ASX Recommendation 
that a majority of the Board should be Independent 
Directors. The Board comprises a majority of 
Independent Directors, with four Non-Independent 
Directors and six Independent Directors since 
Ms Teresa Dyson’s and Mr Michael Ziegelaar’s 
appointment. During the period of the financial year prior 
to Dr Deaker’s retirement and resignation the Board 
comprised four Non-Independent Directors and five 
Independent Directors.

In determining whether a Director is independent, the 
Board conducts regular assessments and has regard to 
whether a Director is considered to be one who:

 ƒ is a substantial shareholder of the Company or an 
officer of, or otherwise associated directly with, a 
substantial shareholder of the Company; 

48

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845 ƒ is, or has previously been, employed in an executive 

capacity by the Company or another Group 
member, and there has not been a period of at least 
three years between ceasing such employment and 
serving on the Board; 

 ƒ has within the last three years been a principal of 
a material professional advisor of, or a material 
consultant to, the Company or another Group 
member, or an employee materially associated with 
the service provider; 

 ƒ is a material supplier or customer of the Company 

or other group member, or an officer of or otherwise 
associated directly or indirectly with a material 
supplier or customer; or 

 ƒ has a material contractual relationship with the 

Company or another group member other than  
as a Director.

The Board determines the materiality of a relationship 
on the basis of fees paid or monies received or paid 
to either a Director or an entity which falls within the 
independence criteria above. If an amount received 
or paid may impact the Earnings Before Interest, Tax, 
Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA) of the Group 
in the previous financial year by more than 5%, then a 
relationship will be considered material. 

In the Board’s view, the Independent Directors referred 
to above are free from any interest and any business or 
other relationship which could, or could reasonably be 
perceived to, materially interfere with the Directors’ ability 
to act with a view to the best interests of the Company. 
Mr Michael Ziegelaar is a partner at Herbert Smith 
Freehills, a law firm which provides certain legal services 
to the Company. The legal services provided by Herbert 
Smith Freehills are not considered material having regard 
to the principles above and Mr Ziegelaar is not involved  
in providing the services. The Board is satisfied that  
Mr Ziegelaar’s role with Herbert Smith Freehills does  
not interfere with the independent exercise of his 
judgment as a Non-Executive Director of the Company. 

Mr Kerry Stokes AC, Mr Peter Gammell and Mr Ryan 
Stokes are not regarded as independent within the 
framework of the independence guidelines set out 
above because of their positions, or in the case of 
Mr Gammell, former position, within Seven Group 
Holdings Limited, which is a major shareholder of Seven 
West Media Limited. Due to his position as Managing 
Director & Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tim Worner is not 
considered to be independent.

Chairman 

The roles of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 
are separate. Mr Kerry Stokes AC is the Chairman of 
the Company. The Chairman is responsible for leading 
the Board, facilitating the effective contribution of all 
Directors and promoting constructive and respectful 
relations between the Board and Management.

The Board acknowledges the ASX Recommendation 
that the Chairman should be an Independent Director, 
however the Board has formed the view that Mr Stokes 
is the most appropriate person to lead the Board as its 
Chairman given his experience and skills, particularly 
with regard to his long term association with various 
media businesses of the Group. In addition, the 
Company has a clear and accepted conflict of interest 
protocol to manage the relationships between the 
Company and Seven Group Holdings.

Board skills, experience and expertise

Each Director brings a range of personal and 
professional experiences and expertise to the Board. 
The Board seeks to achieve an appropriate mix of skills, 
tenures and diversity, including a deep understanding 
of the media industry across multiple channels, as well 
as corporate management and operational, financial 
and safety matters. Directors devote significant time and 
resources to the discharge of their duties.

Company’s Purpose and Strategic Objectives

In accordance with its Charter, and consistent with 
emerging governance expectations, the Board has 
defined the Company’s purpose as driving shareholder 
value by “delivering engagement and value through 
powerful storytelling”. The Board has identified the 
following areas as strategic objectives for the Company 
to achieve this purpose:

1. Focus on the Core

 ƒ Improve ratings and revenue performance.
 ƒ Grow returns on content investment.

 – Create, secure and curate the best local  

and international content.

 – Maximise the return on our content investment 
through every window and overseas sale.

2. Transform the Operating Model

 ƒ Deliver on operating cost saving targets.
 ƒ Drive efficiencies in existing assets.
 ƒ Partner with competitors in non-competitive areas to 

improve profitability.

 ƒ Evolve to a leaner and more agile operating model 

while protecting content quality.

3. Grow New Revenue Streams 

 ƒ Drive greater digital adoption and yield.
 ƒ Introduce new content monetisation formats.
 ƒ Invest in data, automation and targeted advertising 

to maximise inventory yield.

 ƒ Invest in adjacent verticals where we can leverage 

the power of our assets.

49

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

4. Capital Management 

 ƒ Prudent capital and balance sheet management  
to sustain future development of the Company. 

5. Culture

 ƒ Enhancing alignment of the Company’s culture to 

drive innovation and change through technology and 
to continue to reduce the Company’s cost base.

Board Skills Matrix

The Board has developed a Board Skills Matrix reflecting 
the desired skills and experience required to be able to 
deliver on the strategic objectives of the Company. The 
Board believes that these skills and experiences are well-
represented by its current composition. 

The Board Skills Matrix is set out in two parts. The first 
table outlines the desired industry specific skills and 
experience and the second table outlines the depth of 
general corporate, executive and Director experience 
which are appropriate for the Company. The tables also 
outline the percentage of current directors possessing 
those skills and experience.

Skills and Experience 

Percentage

Media industry leadership 

Senior executive or Board level 
experience in the media industry, 
including in-depth knowledge of the 
legislative and regulatory framework 
governing this industry.

Banking, finance, asset and  
capital management

Senior executive or Board level 
experience and understanding of 
banking markets and commercial 
financing arrangements as well as 
strategic planning and oversight of asset 
allocation and capital management. 

Marketing, sales and product 
distribution and servicing

Senior executive or Board level 
experience in delivering product offerings 
to market, including marketing, branding 
and optimising sales processes and 
product distribution systems.

Investment, mergers and acquisitions, 
venture capital and entrepreneurship

Senior executive or Board level experience 
in analysis and identification of business 
and market opportunities as well as 
execution in relation to investment, 
mergers and entrepreneurial activities. 

80%

90%

80%

100%

Skills and Experience 

Percentage

Technology and telecommunications

Senior executive or Board level 
experience in relation to information 
management, information technology 
and telecommunications as well as the 
oversight of implementation of major 
technology projects.

70%

Skills and Experience 

Percentage

CEO and Board level experience

Significant business experience and 
success at a senior executive level.

Accounting and treasury

Senior executive or equivalent 
experience in financial accounting and 
reporting, corporate finance, internal 
financial controls and an ability to probe 
the adequacies of financial risk controls.

Corporate governance and 
organisation management

Commitment to the highest standards 
of corporate governance, including 
experience within an organisation  
that is subject to rigorous governance 
and regulatory standards.

Legal, regulation and compliance

Senior executive or Board level 
experience in compliance and knowledge 
of legal and regulatory requirements. 

Risk management and audit

Senior executive or Board level 
experience in identification, 
management and oversight of material 
corporate risks and audit, including 
ability to monitor risk and compliance.

WHS, human resource management 
and remuneration

Board remuneration committee 
membership or Senior executive 
experience relating to workplace 
health and safety, managing people 
and remuneration, including incentive 
arrangements and the legislative 
framework governing employees  
and remuneration. 

100%

90%

100%

90%

100%

100%

50

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Remuneration & Nomination Committee 

Director induction and ongoing training 

The Board has established a Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee comprised of the following 
members, all of whom are Independent Directors except 
for Mr Ryan Stokes: 

 ƒ Mr John Alexander (Chairman) 
 ƒ Mr David Evans 
 ƒ Mr Jeffrey Kennett AC 
 ƒ Mr Ryan Stokes

Dr Michelle Deaker was a member of the Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee throughout the financial year until 
her retirement and resignation on 2 November 2017.

The Remuneration & Nomination Charter* provides 
that the Committee must consist of a minimum of three 
members and must have a majority of Independent 
Directors, all of whom must be Non-Executive Directors. 

Attendance at Committee meetings by management 
is at the invitation of the Committee. Directors who are 
non-Committee members may attend any meeting 
of the Committee. The Committee may request that 
Directors who are non-Committee members are not 
present for all or any part of a meeting. It is the practice 
of the Committee for the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer and Senior Group Executive, Human 
Resources to attend Committee meetings to present to, 
or to assist, the Committee. 

The Chairman of the Committee reports to the Board on 
the Committee’s considerations and recommendations. 

Further details concerning the Remuneration & 
Nomination Committee’s role in relation to Board 
appointments are set out in this Corporate Governance 
Statement under the heading “Principle 1 – Lay Solid 
Foundations for Management and Oversight”, and 
under “Principle 8 –Remunerate Fairly and Responsibly” 
in relation to its role regarding the Company’s 
remuneration arrangements.

As part of the induction process, Board appointees 
attend a briefing with the Chairman, meet with the 
Company Secretary about the Company’s corporate 
governance (including its policies and procedures), visit 
key business sites and meet with Company Executives. 
In addition to an induction process for new Director 
appointments, from time to time, Directors attend external 
education seminars and peer group meetings regarding 
regulatory and compliance developments. The Company 
arranges presentations to the Board by Executives to 
update the Directors on the Group’s business activities, 
as well as industry and regulatory developments.

The Director induction and ongoing training programs 
are reviewed to consider appropriate opportunities 
for Director development having regard to the desired 
skills and competencies for Board members as well as 
emerging governance issues such as digital disruption 
and cyber security.

Effective functioning of the Board

The Board, under the terms of appointment of Directors 
and by virtue of their position, is entitled to access, and 
is provided with, information concerning the Group 
needed to discharge its duties efficiently. Directors 
are entitled, and encouraged, to request additional 
information if they believe that is necessary to support 
informed decision making. Directors are able to obtain 
independent professional advice to assist them in 
carrying out their duties, at the Company’s expense.

Principle 3 – Act Ethically and Responsibly

Core Values 

In accordance with its Charter, the Board has approved 
the core values of the Company below which function 
as guiding principles and expectations for behaviour 
and the culture the Board and Management are seeking 
to embed across all businesses within the Group to 
assist in the achievement of the Company’s purpose 
and strategic objectives set out under Principle 2. 

The Company’s core values have been determined 
following Management workshops, feedback from 
employees and presentation to the Board. The 
Company’s core values are represented as motivational 
“catch-cries” which are displayed graphically at the 
Company’s workplaces and promulgated to staff by 
Management, including across the Company’s internal 
communications platforms and forums. 

51

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Connection – “One connected team”

Internal connection means a focus on achieving the best 
outcome for the Group as a whole. For our people to 
work with trust, integrity, positivity and without self-
interest. The external connection that we are seeking 
to embed is a focus on the changes that are rapidly 
occurring in the media environment. This means 
questioning what we do and how we do it to ensure 
that it is reflective of our audience’s and customers’ 
changing needs.

Accountability – “Just own it”

Holding ourselves, and each other, accountable for 
delivering results and meeting our commitments. As we 
work towards the transformation of our business, our 
Management team must hold themselves and their staff 
accountable for achieving our key goals along the way. 

Creativity/Passion – “Here to inspire”  
and “Unleash your Imagination”

This value reflects the creativity and passion that is key 
to our long-term success but is also about ensuring 
that creative effort is focused on our audience and 
customers. This is also recognition that we are striving 
for excellence and the retention of leadership positions 
by each of our core businesses.

Code of Conduct and other Company policies

The Board has adopted a Code of Conduct for 
Directors* which establishes guidelines for their conduct 
in matters such as ethical standards and the disclosure 
and management of conflicts of interests. The Code 
is based on a Code of Conduct developed by the 
Australian Institute of Company Directors. 

The Company has adopted a Code of Conduct for 
Employees* which provides a framework of ethical 
principles for conducting business and dealing with 
customers, employees and other stakeholders. The 
Code sets out the responsibilities of employees in 
regard to the Company’s commitment to workplace 
safety and employees’ fulfilment of their work duties and 
compliance with Company policies. The Code requires 
employees to maintain confidentiality of confidential 
Company information, avoid conflicts of interest, 
not misuse Company property or accept or offer 
inappropriate gifts. 

The Board has implemented a number of other 
policies and procedures to maintain confidence in the 
Company’s integrity and promote ethical behaviour and 
responsible decision making, including the following:

 ƒ Continuous Disclosure policy* 
 ƒ Share Trading policy* 
 ƒ Group Editorial policy* 
 ƒ Diversity policy* 
 ƒ Issue Escalation policy 

The Company’s Issue Escalation policy (internal 
policy), which includes an external reporting ‘hotline’, 
encourages the reporting and investigation of unethical 
and unlawful practices and matters of concern which 
cannot otherwise be adequately dealt with under 
Company policies. The Company’s Share Trading 
policy establishes the governing principles for trading in 
Company shares by Directors, Executives and Staff. The 
Company requires compliance with Company policies 
by staff under the terms of their employment and carries 
out training of employees in relation to its policies and 
procedures.

The Company assesses the Group as part of its 
compliance with the National Greenhouse and Energy 
Reporting Act and will be reporting relevant emissions 
and energy usage and production for the Group for the 
financial year. 

Principle 4 – Safeguard Integrity in  
Corporate Reporting

Audit & Risk Committee

As at the date of this statement, the Committee 
comprised the following members, all of whom are 
Independent Directors except for Mr Peter Gammell and 
all of whom are non-executives: 

 ƒ Ms Teresa Dyson (Chairman of the Committee)
 ƒ Mr David Evans 
 ƒ Mr Peter Gammell 
 ƒ Mr Michael Malone

Ms Teresa Dyson was appointed to the Audit & Risk 
Committee effective from 15 February 2018 and 
became Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee on 19 
February 2018.

The Board recognises and thanks Mr Evans for his 
unstinting efforts as Audit & Risk Committee Chairman 
in the period prior to Ms Teresa Dyson’s appointment. 
Ms Evans continues to serve as a member of the Audit 
& Risk Committee. 

Dr Michelle Deaker was a member of the Audit & Risk 
Committee throughout the financial year until her 
retirement and resignation on 2 November 2017.

52

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845GOVERNANCEThe Audit & Risk Committee has adopted a formal 
Charter* which is available on the Company’s website.

The Committee’s key responsibilities in respect of its 
audit function are to assist the Board in fulfilling its 
responsibilities in relation to: 

 ƒ the accounting and financial reporting practices of 

the Company and its subsidiaries; 

 ƒ the consideration of matters relating to the financial 
controls and systems of the Company and its 
subsidiaries; 

 ƒ work with management to ensure that a formal  

and rigorous processes is in place to validate the 
quality and integrity of the Company’s corporate 
reporting, including financial reporting, and ensure 
that it is accurate, balanced and understandable  
and provides investors with appropriate information 
to make informed investment decisions;

 ƒ the identification and management of financial  

and non-financial risk; and 

 ƒ the examination of any other matters referred  

to it by the Board.

The Audit & Risk Committee is also responsible for:

 ƒ making recommendations to the Board on the 

appointment (including procedures for selection), 
and where necessary, the replacement of the 
External Auditor; 

 ƒ evaluating the overall effectiveness of the external 
audit function through the assessment of external 
audit reports and meetings with the External 
Auditors; 

 ƒ reviewing the External Auditor’s fees in relation 

to the quality and scope of the audit with a view 
to ensuring that an effective, comprehensive and 
complete audit can be conducted for the fee; and
 ƒ assessing whether non-audit services provided by 
the External Auditor are consistent with maintaining 
the External Auditor’s independence. 

Attendance at Committee meetings by management 
is at the invitation of the Committee. Directors who are 
non-Committee members may attend any meeting 
of the Committee. The Committee may request that 
Directors who are non-Committee members are not 
present for all or any part of a meeting. It is the practice 
of the Committee for the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Head of 
Internal Audit to attend Committee meetings to present 
to, or to assist, the Committee.

The Chairman of the Committee reports to the Board on 
the Committee’s considerations and recommendations. 

The Audit & Risk Committee’s key responsibilities in 
respect of its risk function are set out below under 
“Principle 7 – Recognise and Manage Risk”. 

External Audit function

It is the policy of the Audit & Risk Committee to 
meet periodically with the External Auditors without 
management being present. 

Each reporting period, the External Auditor provides 
an independence declaration in relation to the audit. 
Additionally, the Audit & Risk Committee provides 
advice to the Board in respect of whether the provision 
of non-audit services by the External Auditor are 
compatible with the general standard of independence 
of auditors imposed by the Corporations Act. 

The Board ensures that the Company’s External Auditor 
attends all Annual General Meetings and is available 
to answer shareholders’ questions about the conduct 
of the audit and the preparation and content of the 
Auditor’s report.

Declarations by the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer 

Before the Board approves the financial statements for 
each of the half year and full year, it receives from the 
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer and the 
Chief Financial Officer a written declaration that, in their 
opinion, the financial records of the Company have been 
properly maintained and the financial statements are 
prepared in accordance with the relevant accounting 
standards and present a true and fair view of the 
financial position and performance of the consolidated 
group. These declarations also confirm that these 
opinions have been formed on the basis of a sound 
system of risk management and internal compliance 
and control which is operating effectively. 

The required declarations from the Managing Director & 
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have 
been given for the half year ended 30 December 2017 
and the financial year ended 30 June 2018.

Principle 5 – Make Timely and Balanced 
Disclosure

The Company is committed to complying with the 
disclosure obligations of the Corporations Act and the 
Listing Rules of the ASX, and to ensuring accountability 
at a senior executive level for that compliance. To 
that end, the Company has adopted a Continuous 
Disclosure Policy*. 

The Company also follows a program of half yearly 
and yearly disclosures to the market on financial and 
operational results and has established policies and 
procedures to ensure that a wide audience of investors 
has access to information given to ASX for market 
release. Media releases, half yearly and yearly financial 
reports and results presentations are lodged with ASX 
and upon confirmation of receipt by ASX, they are 
posted to the Company’s website. 

53

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

In order to protect against inadvertent disclosure of 
price sensitive information, the Company imposes 
communication ‘blackout’ periods for financial 
information between the end of financial reporting 
periods and the announcement of results to the market.

The Board receives copies of all announcements under 
Listing Rule 3.1 promptly after they have been made.

Principle 6 – Respect the Rights of 
Shareholders

Communications with shareholders

As disclosed in the Shareholder Communication 
Policy*, the Board aims to ensure that shareholders 
are informed of all major developments affecting the 
Company’s state of affairs and that there is an effective 
two-way communication with its shareholders facilitated 
via the Company’s Investor Relations function. The 
Company adopted a communications strategy that 
promotes effective communication with shareholders 
principally through ASX announcements, the Company 
website, the provision of the Annual Report, including 
the financial statements, and the Annual General 
Meeting (and any extraordinary meetings held by the 
Company) and notices of general meetings. Information 
concerning resolutions for consideration at the 
Company’s general meetings is provided in the notice of 
meeting. Shareholders are encouraged to participate in 
general meetings and are invited to put questions to the 
Chairman of the Board in that forum.

Shareholders are given the option to receive 
communications from, and to send communications 
to, the Company electronically, to the extent 
possible. The Board continues to review its channels 
of communications with shareholders for cost 
effectiveness and efficiencies, including using electronic 
delivery systems for shareholder communications where 
appropriate. The Company continues to implement 
campaigns to encourage shareholders to elect to 
receive all shareholder communications electronically to 
help reduce the impact on the environment and costs 
associated with printing and sending materials by post. 

It is the Company’s practice that all resolutions at a 
meeting of security holders are decided by a poll rather 
than by a show of hands.

The Company’s website

The Company’s website www.sevenwestmedia.com. 
au provides various information about the Company, 
including:

 ƒ Overviews of the Company’s operating businesses, 

divisions and structure;

 ƒ Biographical information for each Director; 
 ƒ Copies of the following: 

 – Board and Committee Charters; 
 – Corporate Governance Policies; 
 – Annual Reports and Financial Statements; and 
 – Announcements to ASX; 
 – Security price information; 
 – Contact details for the Company’s Share 

Registry; and

 – Details concerning the date of the Annual 
General Meeting, including the Notice of 
Meeting, when available.

Principle 7 – Recognise and Manage Risk

Risk oversight and management

The Board recognises that the management of business 
and economic risk is an integral part of its operations and 
has established policies and procedures for the oversight 
and management of material business risks, including 
the establishment of the Audit & Risk Committee. Details 
regarding the Committee are set out under “Principle 4 – 
Safeguard Integrity in Corporate Reporting”. 

The Board also believes a sound risk management 
framework should be aimed at identifying and delivering 
improved business processes and procedures across 
the Group which are consistent with the Group’s 
commercial objectives. 

Under the Audit & Risk Committee’s Charter*, the 
Committee’s key responsibilities in respect of its risk 
function are to:

 ƒ Oversee, evaluate and make recommendations 
to the Board in relation to the adequacy and 
effectiveness of the risk management framework 
and the risk management systems and processes in 
place, and be assured and in a position to report to 
the Board that all material risks have been identified 
and appropriate policies and processes are in place 
to manage them;

 ƒ Review and approve management’s annual report on 
the effectiveness of the risk management systems;

 ƒ Review reports from management on new and 

emerging sources of financial and non-financial risk 
and the risk controls and mitigation measures that 
management has put in place to deal with those risks;

54

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845 ƒ Ongoing review of the Company’s risk management 

framework to satisfy itself that it continues to 
be sound and effectively identifies all areas of 
potential risk, and reports to the Board regarding 
any recommended changes to the Company’s risk 
management framework;

 ƒ Review, and make recommendations to the Board 
in relation to, the Company’s insurance program 
and other risk transfer arrangements having regard 
to the Company’s business and the insurable risks 
associated with it, and be assured that appropriate 
coverage is in place;

 ƒ Monitor compliance with applicable laws and 

regulations, review the procedures the Company has 
in place to ensure compliance and be assured that 
material compliance risks have been identified;
 ƒ Establish procedures for the receipt, retention 
and treatment of complaints received by the 
Company regarding fraud or non-compliance with 
applicable laws and regulations and the confidential, 
anonymous submission by employees of the 
Company of any concerns regarding business 
practices; and

 ƒ Review and make recommendations to the Board 
in relation to any incidents involving fraud or other 
breakdown of the Company’s internal controls.

The Board requires management to design and 
implement a risk management and internal control 
system to manage the Company’s material business 
risks and report to it on the management of those risks. 
During the reporting period, management reported to 
the Board as to the effectiveness of the Company’s 
management of its material business risks. 

During the 2018 financial year, the Committee 
conducted periodic as well as the annual review of the 
Company’s risk management framework and satisfied 
itself that the framework continues to be sound and 
effectively identifies potential risks.

Risk Management Policy 

The Board has adopted a Risk Management Policy 
consistent with Australian Standard ISO 31000:2009 
and Principle 7 of the ASX Recommendations. 

The group-wide risk profile covers the key revenue, 
content, product/technology and people risks of 
the Company and is prepared by the Head of Risk 
Assurance & Internal Audit in consultation with key 
executives across the business. Throughout the year, 
the Audit & Risk Committee reviews the group-wide risk 
profile and the success of the risk mitigation strategies 
in order to satisfy itself that management is operating 
within the risk appetite set by the Board. External advice 
is obtained as appropriate.

Internal Control Framework – Risk Assurance & 
Internal Audit

The Company has established a Risk Assurance & 
Internal Audit function to evaluate and improve the 
effectiveness of the Company’s governance, risk 
management and internal control processes. Functional 
responsibility for Risk Assurance & Internal Audit resides 
with the Head of Risk Assurance & Internal Audit who 
reports to the Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee 
and has access to the Company’s records, information 
systems, properties and personnel in order to conduct 
its activities. The Audit & Risk Committee reviews 
and approves Risk Assurance & Internal Audit’s plans 
and resourcing as well as monitors its independence, 
performance and management’s responsiveness to its 
findings and recommendations.

During the year, the Head of Risk Assurance & Internal 
Audit presented detailed Internal Audits and Risk 
reviews to the Committee regarding the effectiveness 
of the Company’s management of its material business 
risks, in accordance with the approved Risk Assurance 
& Internal Audit plan. Focus areas of the 2018 Risk 
Assurance & Internal Audit plan included controls over 
payment systems, review of deployment of IT projects 
and enhancing the Company’s anti-fraud programs. 

Workplace Safety

The Company is committed to providing a safe 
workplace and maintains comprehensive workplace 
safety policies and systems which are overseen by 
health and safety specialists within the Company’s 
Human Resources team and dedicated Risk, Safety 
and Security team. These polices are promulgated to 
staff through induction and training and the availability 
of information on the Company’s intranet as well as 
through Occupational Health & Safety Committees and 
representatives at each business premises. Consultative 
workplace safety arrangements, ranging from formal 
quarterly health and safety committee meetings to other 
agreed arrangements, have been put in place at each 
key business premises. Procedures relating to security 
at the Company’s business sites are prioritised and are 
subject to review and continuous improvement.

Management provides leadership by promoting a 
culture of safety and risk awareness and monitors and 
responds to incident reporting and provides regular 
workplace safety updates to the Board. Additionally, to 
support well-being within the workplace, the Company 
provides a free and confidential external counselling 
service for employees and their immediate families.

55

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Environment

Strategy 

Environmental risks are considered as part of the 
Company’s risk assessment processes. Environmental 
risks relating to the use and storage of any hazardous 
materials are identified and managed through 
regular inspections of business premises, reviews of 
compliance and emergency procedures, and advice 
from external consultants on environmental matters. 

The Company is mindful of climate change and 
managing the environmental impact of its operations. 
For more information on the Company’s environmental 
practices and the Company’s efforts to minimise the 
environmental footprint of its businesses, please refer to 
pages 33 to 34 of this Annual Report.

Financial reporting

The Company maintains a comprehensive budgeting 
system with an annual budget reviewed by the Audit & 
Risk Committee, which is then recommended to, and 
considered and approved by the Board. Weekly and 
monthly actual results are reported against budget and 
revised forecasts for the year are prepared regularly.

Special reports

The Company has identified a number of key areas 
which are subject to regular reporting to the Board or 
its Committees such as cost reduction programs, legal 
and health and safety matters as well as cyber security, 
payment systems reviews and major technology projects.

Material risks

Under the risk framework described above the 
Company has identified revenue, content, product/
technology and people risks which it manages and 
mitigates. Each of the foregoing material business 
risks is monitored and managed by appropriate 
Senior Management within the Company. Where 
appropriate, external advisers are engaged to assist 
in managing the risk. More detail concerning these 
risks is set out under the headings “Risk Management” 
and “Risk Management Framework” on page 33 of 
this Annual Report. The Company does not believe it 
has any material exposure to environmental or social 
sustainability risks. Commentary on the Company’s 
environmental and human capital related initiatives as 
well as its community engagement is provided on pages 
33 to 40 of this Annual Report.

The Company continues to transform its strategic focus 
to respond rapidly to the challenges and opportunities in 
its marketplace. For more information on the Company’s 
revised strategic framework which underpins the 
Company’s economic sustainability please refer to 
pages 2 to 5 of this Annual Report.

Principle 8 – Remunerate Fairly and 
Responsibly

Remuneration policy 

The objective of the remuneration policy for employees 
is to ensure that remuneration packages properly reflect 
the duties and responsibilities of the employees and 
that remuneration is at an appropriate but competitive 
market rate which enables the Company to attract, 
retain and motivate people of the highest quality and 
with the best skills from the industries in which the 
Company operates. 

Remuneration & Nomination Committee 

To assist in the adoption of appropriate remuneration 
practices, the Board has delegated specific 
responsibilities to the Remuneration & Nomination 
Committee. Details regarding the Committee are set out 
under “Principle 2 – Structure the Board to Add Value”.

The primary responsibilities of the Committee which 
relate to remuneration are: 

 ƒ To review and advise the Board on Directors’ fees 
and the remuneration packages, including equity 
incentive grants, of the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer, Chief Executives and senior 
executives of the Group subsidiaries; 

 ƒ To ensure the company has a rigorous and 

transparent process for developing its remuneration 
policy and for fixing the remuneration packages 
of directors and senior executives, in light of 
the objective that the company’s remuneration 
framework is aligned with the company’s strategic 
objectives, values and risk appetite; 

 ƒ To provide advice and support and serve as a 

sounding-board for the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer and Board in human resource and 
remuneration-related matters; and 

 ƒ To advise on succession planning and employee 

development policies.

56

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Hedging 

It is the Company’s policy that employees (including 
KMP) are prohibited from dealing in Seven West 
Media securities if the dealing is prohibited under the 
Corporations Act. Therefore, in accordance with this 
policy, all Key Management Personnel are prohibited 
from entering into arrangements in connection with 
Seven West Media securities which operate to limit 
the executives’ economic risk under any equity-based 
incentive schemes. 

This statement has been approved by the Board and is 
current as at 21 August 2018.

It is the practice for the Managing Director & 
Chief Executive Officer to attend meetings of the 
Remuneration & Nomination Committee to report 
on, or seek approval of, senior Group Management’s 
remuneration, but he is not present during meetings 
of the Committee (or the Board) when his own 
performance or remuneration are being discussed  
or reviewed.

Remuneration of Directors and Senior Executives

The remuneration of the Non-Executive Directors 
is restricted, in aggregate, by the Constitution of 
the Company and the requirements of the ASX 
Listing Rules. Fees for Directors are set out in the 
Remuneration Report on pages 33 to 34. 

The Committee reviews remuneration packages and 
policies applicable to the Managing Director & Chief 
Executive Officer and senior executives. This includes 
share schemes, incentive performance packages, 
superannuation entitlements, retirement and termination 
entitlements, fringe benefits and insurance policies. 
External advice is sought directly by the Committee, 
as appropriate. The Committee also directly obtains 
independent market information on the appropriateness 
of the level of fees payable to Non-Executive Directors 
and makes recommendations to the Board.

The Remuneration & Nomination Committee met after 
the end of the financial year to review and recommend 
to the Board performance-related remuneration for Key 
Management Personnel. This process is summarised 
in the Remuneration Report on pages 62 to 80. Further 
details of Directors’ and executives’ remuneration, 
superannuation and retirement payments are set out in 
the Remuneration Report. The Board’s remuneration 
policy and a discussion of the differing structures 
of Non-Executive Directors and senior executives’ 
remuneration are also discussed in the Remuneration 
Report throughout sections 1 to 6.

57

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORT

Directors’ Report

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 

The Directors present their report together with 
the consolidated financial statements of the Group 
consisting of Seven West Media Limited and the entities 
it controlled at the end of, or during, the year ended 30 
June 2018 and the auditor’s report thereon.

Board

The following persons were directors of Seven West 
Media Limited during the whole of the financial year and 
up to the date of this report, unless otherwise stated:

KM Stokes AC – Chairman
TG Worner – Managing Director & Chief Executive 
Officer 
JH Alexander 
T Dyson (appointed 2 November 2017)
D Evans 
PJT Gammell
JG Kennett AC 
M Malone 
RK Stokes 
M Ziegelaar (appointed 2 November 2017)
Dr ME Deaker (resigned 2 November 2017)

Particulars of their qualifications, experience, special 
responsibilities and any directorships of other listed 
companies held at any time in the last three years are 
set out in this Annual Report under the headings “Board 
of Directors” and “Corporate Governance Statement”  
on pages 41 and 45 and form part of this report.

WW Coatsworth is the Company Secretary. Particulars 
of Mr Coatsworth’s qualifications and experience are set 
out in this Annual Report under the heading “Company 
Secretary” on page 44. 

Principal activities

The principal activities of the Group during the financial 
year were free-to-air television broadcasting, newspaper 
and magazine publishing and online and radio 
broadcasting.

There were no significant changes in the nature of the 
Group’s principal activities during the financial year.

Business strategies, prospects and likely 
developments

Information on the Group’s operations and the results of 
those operations, financial position, business strategies 
and prospects for future financial years has been 
included in the “Performance of the Business” section 
commencing on page 14. The Performance of the 
Business section also refers to likely developments in 
the Group’s operations in future financial years and the 
expected results of those operations. 

Information in the Performance of the Business section 
is provided to enable shareholders to make an informed 
assessment about the operations, financial position, 
business strategies and prospects for future financial 
years of the Group. 

Significant changes in the state of affairs

Significant changes in the state of affairs of the Group 
during the financial year were as follows:

 ƒ On 28 March 2018, the Company announced that 
it was selling its 50% interest in Yahoo7 to Oath, a 
subsidiary of Verizon. The transaction is expected to 
complete by October 2018.

 ƒ On 13 April 2018, the Company announced that it 
had signed a six-year agreement (2018 through to 
2024) with Cricket Australia for domestic free-to-air 
cricket broadcasting rights. The annual cash rights 
cost is $75 million per annum over the six years.

In the opinion of the Directors there were no other 
significant changes in the state of affairs of the Group 
that occurred during the financial year.

Matters subsequent to the end of the  
financial year

There are no matters or circumstances which have 
arisen since the end of the financial year that have 
significantly affected or may significantly affect:

a.  the Group’s operations in future financial years; or

b.  the results of those operations in future financial 

years; or

c.  the Group’s state of affairs in future financial years.

58

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Meetings of directors 

The number of meetings of the Company’s Board of Directors and of each Board Committee held during the year 
ended 30 June 2018, and the numbers of meetings attended by each Director were:

Meetings of Directors

Audit and Risk

Remuneration and 
Nomination

Directors

KM Stokes AC

T Worner

JH Alexander 

T Dyson*

D Evans 

PJT Gammell

JG Kennett AC 

M Malone 

RK Stokes 

M Ziegelaar*

Dr ME Deaker^

a

12

12

12

8

12

12

12

12

12

8

5

b

12

12

11

7

12

10

12

9

12

8

5

a

1

7

–

4

7

7

5

7

7

5

2

b

1

7

–

4

7

7

5

6

7

5

2

a

2

6

13

2

13

–

13

–

13

3

4

b

2

6

13

2

12

–

13

–

13

3

4

a.  Number of meetings held during the year while the person was a Director.

b.  Number of meetings attended. Please note Directors may attend meetings of Committees of which they are not 

a formal member, and in these instances, their attendance is also included above.

*   Appointed a Director on 2 November 2017.

^   Resigned as a Director on 2 November 2017.

Performance rights and options

During the financial year, there were not any rights issued over an equivalent number of unissued fully paid ordinary 
shares in the Company. 

At the date of this report, the following rights to acquire an equivalent number of ordinary shares in the Company 
under the various employee equity schemes are outstanding:

Share Plan 

Seven West Media Equity Incentive Plan (2016 LTI)

Seven West Media Equity Incentive Plan (2018 LTI)

Rights on Issue 

Expiry Date

3,473,305  

3,634,401  

1 September 2018

1 September 2020

Rights were granted for nil consideration. None of the rights currently on issue entitle the holder to participate in any 
share issue.

During the financial year, no rights vested and 1,328,845 rights lapsed. 

There are no other unissued shares or interests under options as at the date of this report.

For names of the Directors and Key Management Personnel who currently hold rights through these schemes, refer 
to the Remuneration Report.

59

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTDIRECTORS’ REPORT

Dividends – Seven West Media Limited

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

Final ordinary dividend for the year ended 24 June 2017 of 2 cents  
(2016 – 4 cents) per share paid on 18 October 2017

Interim ordinary dividend for the year ended 30 June 2018 was nil cents  
(2017 – 2 cents) 

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

30,161

60,283

–

30,161

30,161

90,444

In addition to the above dividends, since the end  
of the 2018 financial year the Directors have declared  
the payment of a final ordinary dividend of nil cents  
per share.

Environmental regulation

The Group’s major production facilities do not require 
discharge licences under the Environmental Protection 
Act 1986 and no formal reporting is required to either 
the Environmental Protection Authority or the National 
Pollutant Inventory.

Greenhouse gas and energy data reporting 
requirements

The Group continues to measure and monitor its 
Greenhouse Gas emissions under the National 
Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act (2007). The 
Group is actively working towards reduction of direct 
emissions from the consumption of fuels (Scope 1)  
and indirect emissions from electricity consumption 
(Scope 2) reportable under NGER, as well as Scope 3 
voluntary emissions where possible and practical for the 
business units. 

There are no other particular and significant 
environmental regulations under the law of the 
Commonwealth or of a State or Territory for the Group.

Directors’ interests in securities

The relevant interests of each Director in shares  
and rights issued by the Company, as notified by the 
Directors to the ASX in accordance with S205G(1)  
of the Corporations Act 2001, at the date of this report 
are as follows:

Performance 
Rights

Number of 
ordinary 
shares

–

619,753,734

4,068,867

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

293,810

55,768

–

927,803

329,216

75,000

133,000

240,466

–

Directors

KM Stokes AC

T Worner

JH Alexander

T Dyson

D Evans

PJT Gammell

JG Kennett AC

M Malone

RK Stokes

M Ziegelaar

Remuneration report

A remuneration report is set out on the pages  
that follow (pages 62 to 88) and forms part of this 
Directors’ Report.

Indemnity and insurance of directors and officers

The Constitution of the Company provides an indemnity 
to any current and former Director, Alternate Director and 
Secretary of the Company against any liabilities incurred 
by that person arising out of the discharge of duties as an 
officer of the Company or the conduct of the business of 
the Company, including associated legal costs defending 
any proceedings relating to that person’s position with the 
Company, except where the liability arises out of conduct 
involving a lack of good faith.

60

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845 
Rounding of amounts

The Group is of a kind referred to in ASIC Instrument 
2016/191 and in accordance with that Instrument, 
amounts in the consolidated financial statements and 
Directors’ Report have been rounded off to the nearest 
one thousand dollars unless otherwise stated.

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

KM Stokes AC
Chairman

Sydney
21 August 2018

As permitted by the Constitution of the Company, the 
Company has entered into deeds of access, insurance 
and indemnity with each Director as at the end of the 
financial year. 

No amounts were paid and no actions were taken 
pursuant to these indemnities during the year.

During the financial year, the Company paid a premium 
in respect of a contract insuring all Directors and officers 
(including employees) of the Company and of related 
bodies corporate against certain liabilities specified in 
the contract. The contract prohibits disclosure of the 
nature of the liabilities insured and the amount of the 
premium.

Non-audit services

The Company may decide to employ the auditor on 
assignments additional to their statutory audit duties 
where the auditor’s expertise and experience with the 
Company and/or the Group are important.

Amounts paid or payable by the Group to the auditor, 
KPMG, for non-audit services provided during the 
year were $219,756. The Board of Directors has 
considered the position and, in accordance with the 
advice received from the Audit and Risk Committee, is 
satisfied that the provision of the non-audit services is 
compatible with the general standard of independence 
for auditors imposed by the Corporations Act 2001. The 
Directors are satisfied that the provision of non-audit 
services by the auditor did not compromise the auditor 
independence requirements of the Corporations Act 
2001 for the following reasons:

 ƒ all non-audit services were subject to the corporate 
governance procedures adopted by the group 
and have been reviewed by the Audit and Risk 
Committee to ensure they do not impact the integrity 
and objectivity of the auditor;

 ƒ the non-audit services provided do not undermine 

the general principles relating to auditor’s 
independence as set out in APES 110 Code of 
Ethics for Professional Accountants, as they did not 
involve reviewing or auditing the auditor’s own work, 
acting in a management decision making capacity 
for the group, acting as an advocate of the group or 
jointly sharing the risks and rewards.

The Lead auditor’s independence declaration is set out 
on page 89 and forms part of the Directors’ Report for 
the financial year ended 30 June 2018.

61

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTRemuneration Report

Message from the Remuneration & Nomination Committee

Dear Shareholder

Seven West Media is pleased to present its 
Remuneration Report for the 2018 financial year  
(FY18), which sets out remuneration information  
for Key Management Personnel (KMP) and  
Non-Executive Directors.

Introduction

At Seven West Media (SWM), we believe an effective 
remuneration framework enables all stakeholders 
to measure executive pay and performance against 
meaningful metrics indicative of the Company’s 
success. To achieve this, we must give significant 
consideration to the long and short-term returns  
of our shareholders.

In recent years we have sought feedback from 
stakeholders to align our remuneration framework.

Accordingly, we have changed our remuneration 
framework to respond appropriately to both out-
performance and underperformance in the execution  
of our business strategy by simplifying the framework 
and disclosure such that it is aligned, accountable  
and transparent. 

Changes to our Remuneration Framework 

Our remuneration framework has three components: 
Fixed remuneration, Short Term Incentive (STI) 
and Long Term Incentive (LTI), the latter two being 
comprehensively reviewed and amended by the Board 
over the past year. These changes included:

 ƒ the implementation of our new STI Plan in FY17, 

with the award of the first Restricted Shares in FY18 
in respect of FY17 STI awards. For Executives that 
were STI entitled, 50 per cent was delivered in cash 
and 50 per cent was deferred into Restricted Shares 
for a period of 12 months. In FY18, we bolstered 
our STI Plan Scorecard Key Performance Indicators 
(KPIs) emphasising fewer metrics and aligning them 
more closely with our business strategy in five key 
areas:  Financial, Audience & Customer, Content & 
Product, Operational and People & Leadership; and
 ƒ an immediate transition to our new LTI Plan in FY18 
with no retrospectivity. The new LTI Plan achieved 
a majority of votes at the Company’s 2017 Annual 
General Meeting (AGM). This is a more simplified LTI 
Plan, which is performance-vested. Performance 
Rights are rights to receive shares and the quantity 
that vests is dependent on corporate performance 
over the following three-year measurement period. 

As a result, our 2018 LTI Plan includes a new 
performance measure based on Total Shareholder 
Return (TSR) relative to the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer 
Discretionary Index. We believe that the performance 
measure and targets of the new LTI Plan are better 
aligned to the Company’s business strategy. We will 
continue to ensure that a sensible level of executive 
remuneration is at-risk and share-based within the 
markets in which we operate.

We are thankful to our shareholders and management 
team for their continued engagement throughout the 
process and appreciate our shareholders’ willingness to 
provide us with their insight. As part of our simplification 
process, we have also worked to provide shareholders 
with a clear and concise summary of our remuneration 
framework. This more concise disclosure allows for 
better understanding of our executive remuneration 
framework and how it is evolving, supports the 
execution of our business strategy, is compliant  
with regulatory obligations and addresses the  
need for transparency with shareholders.

2018 MD & CEO and Executive KMP Remuneration 
and Performance

The Board assesses the performance of the Group, 
the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD 
& CEO) and other Executive KMP at the end of each 
performance year. The assessments include a review 
of performance against annual targets and progress 
towards achieving longer term strategic goals. 

The FY18 result for the Company reflects the strong 
recovery in Seven’s broadcast ratings, while exceeding 
cost reduction targets and implementing a series of 
cost projects which will continue to deliver benefits in 
future years. The Company successfully launched 7plus 
during the year, the digital platform for the long-form 
content returned as part of our exit from the Yahoo7 
Joint Venture. The Earnings Before Interest and Tax 
(EBIT) result for the year was at the upper end of market 
guidance and net debt was well below target resulting 
in EBITDA leverage of 2.3 times. This EBIT outcome fell 
within the 90 to 94 per cent target range. The Company 
has maintained a strong cost management discipline, 
achieved sound risk management and compliance 
outcomes, and increased the strength and flexibility of 
the balance sheet.

In relation to ‘at risk’ reward, we set stretching yet 
achievable objectives and targets for each Executive. 
When Executives deliver on-target performance at 
a Group and individual level (taking into account the 
Company’s values and risk/compliance standards), then 
variable awards are likely to be around the target:

 ƒ For FY18, STI outcomes averaged 28 per cent of 

target, with significant differentiation at an individual 
level (ranging from 18 per cent to 40 per cent of target). 

62

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT ƒ The Performance Rights awarded in September 
2015 were tested in September 2017. As both 
the relative TSR and Diluted Earnings Per Share 
(DEPS) performance hurdles were not met, these 
Performance Rights lapsed and Executives received 
no value from this award. 

During the Company’s executive remuneration review, 
the Board determined that no changes be made to 
the remuneration levels for the MD & CEO and other 
Executive KMP. 

Details concerning FY18 executive remuneration 
arrangements and the performance-linked remuneration 
outcomes for FY18 are set out in this Remuneration 
Report. Full details of the STI and LTI Plans are set  
out in Section 6 of this Report. 

Our MD & CEO, Mr. Tim Worner’s decisions and 
achievements increased SWM’s long-term growth 
potential and sustainability. Examples of the Company’s 
strategic and operational excellence for 2018 include:

 ƒ Seven: Record-breaking second half ratings 

resulting in the position of Number 1 Network, 
Channel, and Multi-Channel for Total People  
during the year;

 ƒ 7Sport: Secured the rights to the dominant Summer 
sport, Cricket, which combined with existing rights 
to AFL provide long-term audience certainty.
 ƒ Seven Digital: 7plus launched during the year 

delivering a rapidly scaling Unique Audience and 
securing a 42.1 per cent commercial share of the 
high-growth Broadcast Video On-Demand (BVOD) 
market.

 ƒ Seven Studios: International earnings growth 
delivered record EBIT, growing by 8 per cent.
 ƒ The West: Providing unparalleled reach to West 
Australians with revenue trends significantly 
improving in the second half of the year.

 ƒ Pacific: Reduced the cost base by 20 per cent 

resulting in EBIT growth of 175 per cent, the highest 
earnings since FY15.

Changes to Key Management Personnel  
and Non-Executive Directors

 ƒ Ms Bridget Fair, Group Chief – Corporate and 

Regulatory Affairs, resigned from the Company 
effective 1 February 2018.

 ƒ Dr Michelle Deaker, Non-Executive Director, 

resigned from the Company on 2 November 2017.
 ƒ Ms Teresa Dyson, Non-Executive Director, joined the 

Company on 2 November 2017.

 ƒ Mr Michael Ziegelaar, Non-Executive Director, joined 

the Company on 2 November 2017.

Following the departure of Ms Fair, the Company  
re-evaluated the role of Group Chief – Corporate and 
Regulatory Affairs and consequently this role ceased to  
be a Key Management Personnel role on 1 February 2018. 

Outlook 

The operational changes made in the financial year 
position the Company to be more competitive and fit for 
the modern media landscape. The Company’s EBIT is 
projected to grow in FY19 with an ongoing focus on ratings 
leadership, revenue share, the delivery of cost savings  
and strengthening of the Company’s balance sheet. 

The changes to our new remuneration framework have 
taken full effect during FY18 and will further enhance 
shareholder alignment and comparability to peers while 
enabling the Company to attract and retain the highest 
calibre executives. In addition, we have incorporated 
shareholder feedback into our corporate messaging and 
governance. We are making efforts in FY19 to improve 
further investor engagement including from Board 
members. We are committed to prioritising the interests of 
our shareholders and encourage and value your feedback. 

On behalf of the Board, I invite you to read our  
refreshed Remuneration Report which will be  
presented to shareholders for adoption at the  
2018 Annual General Meeting.

Thank you for your support and continued interest  
in the ongoing success of Seven West Media. 

Mr. Worner’s 2017 and 2018 remuneration is  
tabled at the Sections 5 and 6 of the Report.

Yours faithfully

Changes to Non-Executive Director Fees 

At the Company’s 2017 AGM, the Board announced  
a 20 per cent reduction of its fees which took effect 
from 3 November 2017 for the remainder of the  
financial year, aligning with the Company’s cost 
transformation initiatives. In recognition of the 
Company’s cost management achievements  
during the year, from 1 July 2018 Non-Executive  
Director fees were reinstated to the fees in place  
prior to the reduction announced at the 2017 AGM. 

John Alexander 
Remuneration & Nomination Committee Chairman

63

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORT 65

 66 

 68

  68

Executive Remuneration –  
The Details: Composition of Executive 
Remuneration and Application of 
Remuneration Principles  

 73

6.1   Executive Remuneration Framework  

  73

6.2    Link Between Remuneration Policy  
and Company Performance  

6.3    FY18 Executive  

Remuneration Outcomes  

6.4   Executive Service Agreements  

6.5    Non-Executive Director  

Remuneration Framework  

7 

Statutory Remuneration Disclosures  
for Key Management Personnel  

7.1    Executive Remuneration  

in detail (Statutory Disclosures)  

7.2   Non-Executive Remuneration in Detail  

7.3    Key Management Personnel Equity 

Transactions and Holdings  

8 

Loans and Other Transactions  
with Key Management Personnel  

  79

  80

  81

  81

 83

  83

  84

  84

 88

Introduction  

 65

6 

Table of Contents

Remuneration Report 2018 – Audited

1 

2  

3 

FY18 Key Management Personnel  
Covered by this Report  

Executive Remuneration –  
The Short Read  

4 

Remuneration Governance  

4.1    Role of the Remuneration and  
Nomination Committee  

4.2    Members of the Remuneration and 

Nomination Committee During FY18  

  69

4.3    Services from External  

Remuneration Consultants  

4.4   Security Trading Policy  

5 

Executive Remuneration Outcomes  
During the FY18 Performance Year  

5.1    Executive Remuneration  
Earned and Vested  

5.2   Summary of STI Outcomes  

5.3    Equity Granted to the MD & CEO  

and Executive KMP  

5.4    MD & CEO and Executive  
KMP STI Outcomes  

5.5   Summary of LTI Outcomes  

  69

  69

 69

  69

  70

  72

  72

  73

64

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1. Introduction

This Report describes the remuneration arrangements for the Key Management Personnel (KMP) of Seven West 
Media Limited as defined in AASB 124 Related Party Disclosures, including Non-Executive Directors, the Managing 
Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO), and other Executives (including Executive Directors) (hereafter 
referred to in this Report as Executive KMP) who have authority for planning, directing and controlling the activities 
of the Group. The KMP for the financial year are set out below.

The information provided in this Remuneration Report has been audited as required by section 308(3C) of the 
Corporations Act 2001. It forms part of the Directors’ Report.

2. FY18 Key Management Personnel Covered by this Report

The KMP whose remuneration is disclosed in this year’s Report are:

KMP

Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) 

KM Stokes AC

JH Alexander

T Dyson

D Evans

PJT Gammell

JG Kennett AC

M Malone

RK Stokes

M Ziegelaar

Position

Chairman

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Former Non-Executive Directors (NEDs)

ME Deaker

Director

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) and Executive KMP 

Term as KMP

Full Year

Full Year

Part Year – Appointed 2 November 2017

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Part Year – Appointed 2 November 2017

Part Year – Resigned effective  
2 November 2017

TG Worner

KJ Burnette

CR Dickens

WO Lynch

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

Former Executive KMP

BC Fair

Managing Director &  
Chief Executive Officer

Chief Revenue Officer

Chief Digital Officer

Chief Financial Officer

Group Executive, Human Resources

Commercial Director

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Full Year

Group Chief – Corporate and  
Regulatory Affairs 

Part Year – Resigned effective  
1 February 2018

65

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORT3. Executive Remuneration – The Short Read

Key Features

Details of Seven West Media’s Approach

Executive Remuneration in FY18 

Further 
Information

1. 

 How is Seven  
West Media’s 
performance 
reflected in this 
year’s remuneration 
outcomes?

Seven’s remuneration outcomes are strongly linked to the delivery of sustainable 
shareholder value over the short and long-term. 

Section 5 
Pages 69–72

Short Term Incentive (STI): The Company’s underlying Earnings Before Interest 
and Tax (EBIT) result of $235.6m fell within the 90 to 94 per cent range of budget. 
This, coupled with the delivery of strategic objectives on our scorecard, resulted in 
a corresponding award of STI.

Section 8 
Pages 80

2. 

 What changes 
have been made to 
the remuneration 
framework in 
FY18?

Long Term Incentive (LTI): The three-year performance period for the FY15 
LTI grant completed on 30 June 2018. The FY15 LTI was divided into two 
components, with 50 per cent tested against relative TSR performance and the 
other 50 per cent tested against DEPS targets, both over a three-year period. The 
Company’s DEPS performance did not meet target. Also, the Group’s relative 
TSR performance fell below the median of the comparator group. As a result, 
both components of the FY15 LTI did not vest for all Executive KMP. The Board 
is committed to ensuring Executives’ remuneration links to the achievement of 
sustainable value for shareholders and therefore will continue to use TSR for the 
FY19 LTI grant for the Executive KMP

LTI: During FY17, the Company commenced a review of its incentive framework. 
The review of the STI and LTI plans was undertaken on the basis that there are 
opportunities for improvement including:

Section 6 
Pages 77–79

 ƒ Enhanced alignment between executive and shareholder interests;
 ƒ Simplification of the STI and LTI plans;
 ƒ Drive performance aligned to the business strategy;
 ƒ Increase individual accountability;
 ƒ Drive an ownership mindset; and
 ƒ Retention of key Executives.

Effective for the FY18 performance year, the key changes of the LTI Plan were 
approved by shareholders at the Company’s 2017 AGM in the context of the 
approval of the MD & CEO’s LTI award for FY18: 

 ƒ Removal of the DEPS performance hurdle;
 ƒ Move to a single, more straightforward relative TSR performance hurdle;
 ƒ Change of the TSR comparator group to an ASX index (S&P/ ASX 200 

Consumer Discretionary Index); and

 ƒ Introduction of an individual performance condition.

STI: There were no further changes to the STI methodology.

Fixed Remuneration: Fixed remuneration levels for the MD & CEO and Executive 
KMP remain unchanged. 

3. 

 Are any changes 
planned for FY19?

No. There are no significant changes planned for FY19. However, in line with 
previous years, the Board will review and adjust (if necessary) the threshold and 
stretch performance levels for the performance objectives applicable to the STI 
and LTI awards.

Section 6 
Page 73

Executive Remuneration Framework

4. 

 What is Seven 
West Media’s 
remuneration 
strategy relative to 
the market?

5. 

 What proportion of 
remuneration is “at 
risk”?

Fixed and variable remuneration strategy is aimed at the market median, with 
remuneration opportunities for outstanding performance extending up to the 
upper quartile of the market.

Section 6 
Page 74

Executive KMP remuneration is broadly evenly distributed between fixed 
remuneration and on performance which is therefore at risk. The remuneration 
package for the MD & CEO is 50 per cent performance-related pay, and for 
Executive KMP the remuneration package is 43 per cent performance-related pay.

Section 6 
Page 74

66

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORTKey Features

Details of Seven West Media’s Approach

Further 
Information

6. 

 Are there any  
claw-back 
provisions for 
incentives?

Yes. If there is a material financial misstatement, any unvested LTI or deferred STI 
awards can be clawed back.

Section 6 
Page 75

Short Term Incentives (STI)

7. 

 Are any STI 
payments 
deferred?

Yes. 50 per cent of the STI award for the MD & CEO and Executive KMP is 
deferred into Restricted Shares which vest after 12 months. If the Executive 
resigns or their employment is terminated for cause before the vesting period 
ends, the shares do not vest and are forfeited.

8. 

 Are STI payments 
capped?

Yes. An Executive’s STI is capped at the STI target, achievable only in 
circumstances of both exceptional individual and Group performance.

Section 6 
Page 75

Section 6 
Page 75

Long Term Incentives (LTI)

9. 

 What are the 
performance 
measures for the 
LTI?

10.   Are there any 
restrictions 
imposed on 
disposal of LTI 
awards?

100 per cent subject to relative TSR with an individual performance condition, with 
the Board having discretion to ensure vesting outcomes are appropriately aligned 
to performance.

Section 6 
Pages 77–78

Yes. There is a restriction imposed on the sale and use of shares after vesting until 
the earliest of the following:

Section 6 
Page 78

 ƒ The date the holder ceases employment with Seven West Media;
 ƒ The one-year anniversary of the vesting date (or subsequent anniversaries  

if elected by the award holder); or

 ƒ The Board determines that the holding lock should be released.

11.   Does the LTI have 

No. There is no re-testing.

re-testing?

12.   Are dividends paid 
on unvested LTI 
awards?

No. Dividends are not paid on unvested LTI awards. This ensures that Executives 
are only rewarded when performance hurdles have been achieved at the end of 
the performance period.

13.   Is the size 

of LTI grants 
increased in light 
of performance 
conditions?

No. There is no adjustment to reflect the performance conditions. The grant 
price for allocation purposes is not reduced based on performance conditions. 
Seven uses a ‘face value methodology’ for allocating Performance Rights to each 
Executive KMP, being the average share price for the month leading up to grant, 
discounted for the assumed value of dividends not paid during the three-year 
performance period.

14.   Can LTI 

No. This is prohibited.

participants hedge 
their unvested LTI?

For deferred STI awards, shares are purchased on-market. For LTI awards, the 
Board has discretion to issue new shares or buy shares on-market.

Section 6  
Page 78

Section 6 
Page 78

Section 6 
Pages 77–78

Section 4 
Page 69

Section 6  
Page 79

Section 6 
Page 75

15.   Does Seven West 
Media buy shares 
or issue new 
shares for share-
based awards?

16.   Does Seven West 
Media issue share 
options?

No. Seven uses Restricted Shares for the deferred STI and Performance Rights for 
LTI awards.

Section 6 
Page 77

Executive Service Agreements

17.   What is the 

maximum an 
Executive can 
receive on 
termination?

Executive KMP termination entitlements are limited to 12 months’  
fixed remuneration.

Section 6 
Page 80

67

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTThe Committee has a strong focus on the relationship 
between business performance, risk management and 
remuneration. During the year, the Committee met on 
five occasions and reviewed and approved or made 
recommendations to the Board on matters including: 

 ƒ Remuneration review for the MD & CEO and other 
senior Executives (broader than those disclosed 
in the Remuneration Report) covered by the 
Company’s Remuneration Policy; 

 ƒ The design of significant variable remuneration 

plans, such as the Seven West Media Long Term 
Incentive Plan; 

 ƒ The Company’s performance framework (objectives 

setting and assessment) and annual variable 
remuneration spend; 

 ƒ Performance and remuneration outcomes for key 

senior Executives; 

 ƒ Approval of Executive KMP and other senior 
executive appointments and terminations; 

 ƒ The effectiveness of the Company’s  

Remuneration Policy; 

 ƒ Succession plans for senior Executives; and 
 ƒ Diversity, employee engagement, and health,  

safety and wellbeing. 

The Committee reviews its Charter at least once in each 
financial year. The Corporate Governance Statement on 
page 45 to 57 provides further information on the role of 
the Committee.

4. Remuneration Governance 

4.1  Role of the Remuneration and  

Nomination Committee

The primary objective of the Remuneration and Nomination 
Committee (the Committee) is to assist the Board to fulfil 
its corporate governance and oversight responsibilities 
in relation to the Group’s people strategy including 
remuneration components, performance measurements 
and accountability frameworks, recruitment, engagement, 
retention, talent management and succession planning. 

The Committee’s duties and responsibilities are:

 ƒ Undertake an annual review of the Company’s 

remuneration strategy and Remuneration Policy to 
facilitate understanding of the overall approach to 
remuneration, and to confirm alignment with the 
Company’s business strategy, high standards of 
governance and compliance with regulatory standards;

 ƒ Review and recommend to the Board for approval, 

remuneration arrangements and conditions of service 
for the MD & CEO and Executive KMP. The Committee 
reviews the arrangements on an annual basis against 
the Remuneration Policy, obtaining independent 
external remuneration advice where appropriate;

 ƒ Establish the policy for the remuneration 

arrangements for Non-Executive Directors, reviewing 
remuneration arrangements annually and obtaining 
independent external remuneration advice where 
appropriate. The Committee recommends to the 
Board the Non-Executive Director remuneration, 
within the aggregate approved by shareholders;
 ƒ Undertake an annual review of the Company’s 

performance management practices to confirm the 
integrity of its processes from designing executive 
incentive plans, approval of awards to making 
incentive-based payments under such plans. The 
Committee establishes the performance hurdles 
associated with the Incentive plans, and verifies 
compliance with vesting or exercise requirements  
for equity-based rewards; and

 ƒ Review and recommend to the Board for approval 
the Remuneration Report and any other report 
required to be produced for shareholders to  
meet regulatory requirements. 

68

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT4.2 Members of the Remuneration and 
Nomination Committee During FY18

During FY18, the members of the Remuneration  
and Nomination Committee were:

 ƒ Mr JH Alexander, Chairman
 ƒ Mr D Evans
 ƒ Mr JG Kennett, AC
 ƒ Mr RK Stokes

4.3 Services from External  
Remuneration Consultants

External consultants and advisors are engaged 
as needed to provide independent advice. The 
requirements for external consultants’ services are 
assessed annually in the context of remuneration 
matters that the Committee requires to address. 
Recommendations provided by external consultants  
are used as a guide.

In early FY18, the Committee retained Ernst & Young 
(“EY”), an independent remuneration consultant, to 
report on peer Board and Executive remuneration 
arrangements, provide feedback on remuneration 
framework alternatives being considered by the 
Company, and to assess TSR performance for the 
Company’s FY15 Long Term Incentive Plan. 

In the course of providing this information, the Board 
is satisfied that EY did not make any remuneration 
recommendations relating to KMP as defined by the 
Corporations Act.

The Company also participates in and uses both the 
Mercer Total Remuneration Survey, administered by Mercer 
(Australia) Limited, and Aon Hewitt’s Media & Publishing 
Industries (Australia) Remuneration Survey for purposes  
of benchmarking executive and employee remuneration. 

4.4 Security Trading Policy 

Hedging Prohibition 

All deferred equity must remain ‘at risk’ until it has fully 
vested. Accordingly, Executives and their associated 
persons must not enter into any schemes that specifically 
protect the unvested value of equity allocated. If they do 
so, then they forfeit the relevant equity.

5. Executive Remuneration Outcomes  
During the FY18 Performance Year

5.1 Executive Remuneration Earned and Vested

The purpose of this table is to provide a summary of 
the actual remuneration outcomes received in either 
cash or vested equity received by the MD & CEO and 
Executive KMP in relation to the FY18 performance 
year as cash, or in the case of prior equity awards, the 
value which vested in FY18. The final column shows the 
value of prior equity awards which lapsed in 2018 (these 
awards reflect the 2015 Performance Rights which 
failed to meet the performance hurdles when tested in 
September 2017). 

Only the cash component of the FY18 STI award 
appears in this table, as the other component is 
deferred. Due to this, the values in this table will 
not reconcile with those provided in the statutory 
disclosures in Section 6. For example, the statutory 
disclosures table has been prepared in accordance with 
Australian Accounting Standards (AAS) and discloses 
the value of LTI grants which may or may not vest in 
future years, whereas this table discloses the value of 
LTI grants from previous years which vested in FY18.

69

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTFixed 
Remuner-
ation1

$

Other 
Remuner-
ation2

$

2018 

STI Cash 
Payment    

$

2018 

Total Cash 
Payments3

 $

Financial  
Year

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer

TG Worner

Executive KMP 

KJ Burnette

CR Dickens

WO Lynch

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam5

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

Former Executive KMP 

BC Fair6

Total

2018

2017

2018

2017

2,441,028

2,610,381

89,282

130,454

179,400 

2,709,710

–

2,740,835

1,192,106

1,182,306

516,652

528,270

694,106

702,595

446,488

31,704

753,888

818,076

312,967

509,230

6,357,235

6,382,562

49,273

86,943

35,128

33,533

40,344

31,688

27,159

3,307

35,106

78,747

26,271

38,369

302,563

403,041

56,688 

1,298,067

37,500

36,850

31,797

71,594

43,047

44,888 

–

38,878 

46,407

–

38,672

1,306,749

588,630

593,600

806,044

777,330

518,535

35,011

827,872

943,230

339,238

586,271

428,298

7,088,096

197,423

6,983,026

Prior Year 
Equity 
Awards 
Vested 
during 20184

$

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Prior Year 
Equity 
Awards 
Lapsed/
Forfeited 
during 20184

$

(412,500)

(687,143)

(95,192)

(158,571)

(19,197)

– 

–

–

–

–

(87,260)

(145,357)

(43,630)

(66,071)

(657,779)

(1,057,142)

5.2 Summary of STI Outcomes

How the Group’s Performance was Assessed for the 
2018 Financial Year 

The FY18 STI pool reflects the overall assessment of 
Group performance. The framework provides a set of 
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) which are used to 
assess the quality of the outcomes delivered against  
the Group’s strategic goals. 

The individual KPIs and FY18 achievements as 
determined by the Remuneration and Nomination 
Committee for the MD & CEO are provided in the 
following table.

1.  Fixed remuneration is the total cost of salary, salary-sacrificed 
benefits (including associated fringe benefits tax (FBT)) and an 
accrual for annual leave entitlements. The accounting value may be 
negative where an Executive’s annual leave balance decreases as 
a result of taking more than the leave accrued during the year. The 
2017 figures have been restated to the current year’s presentation.

2.  Other remuneration includes the cash value of non-monetary 

benefits, superannuation, long service leave entitlements and any 
fringe benefits tax payable on non-monetary benefits. The elements 
of other remuneration are valued consistently with the equivalent 
benefits included in the statutory disclosure table in Section 6 of  
the Report.

3.  Refers to the total value of remuneration earned during FY18, being 

the sum of the prior columns.

4.  Refers to equity-based plans from prior years that have vested or 
been lapsed/ forfeited in the current year. The value is calculated 
using the five-day Volume Weighted Average Price (VWAP) of 
Company shares on the vesting lapse/ forfeiture date.

5.  Excludes cash salaries and fees charged by Seven West Media 
Limited to Seven Group Holdings Limited for the provision of 
services to Seven Group Holdings by BI McWilliam in a Company  
to Company agreement.

6.  No other termination benefits were paid to BC Fair other than 

annual leave and long service leave entitlements.

70

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic  
Objective

Description  
of Measure

Weight- 
ing

Actual Performance 
Range

Commentary on Performance

l

d
o
h
s
e
r
h
T

w
o
e
B

l

l

d
o
h
s
e
r
h
T

t
e
g
r
a
T
o
t

o
t

t
e
g
r
a
T

h
c
t
e
r
t
S

h
c
t
e
r
t
S

t
e
g
r
a
T

Financial 

 ƒ Group Revenue 

40%

Audience & 
Customer

Content & 
Product

Operational

People & 
Leadership

Target

 ƒ Underlying EBIT 

Target

 ƒ Target Net Debt

 ƒ Free-to-Air (FTA) 

15%

& Revenue 
Target Share
 ƒ West Australian 
Newspapers 
(WAN) & Pacific 
Magazines
 ƒ Total Audience 

Targets
 ƒ Streaming 

Minutes Target

 ƒ Target Growth 
in Content 
Produced for 
Seven

 ƒ Target Growth 
in Content 
Produced for 
Third Parties

 ƒ Launch of 

New Internally-
created 
Programming
 ƒ Launch of New 
Digital Product

 ƒ Target Cost 
Reductions

 ƒ Efficiency 
Projects 
Delivery 

15%

20%

 ƒ Staff 

10%

Development & 
Performance

 ƒ Target 

Safety Metric 
Improvement
 ƒ Remuneration 
& Industrial 
Relations 
Strategy 

The full year underlying EBIT result of $235.6m 
at 94 per cent of budget was within threshold to 
target. The net debt outcome exceeded target 
and Group revenues improved significantly in the 
second half of the year. 

Seven retained position as the Number 1 rating 
Network for the full financial year and secured a 
record-breaking 41.6 per cent commercial Free-To-
Air (FTA) share in the second half of the year. 

A 39.9 per cent revenue share was also achieved in 
the second half of FY18. 

All streaming minutes targets were exceeded 
during the year.

Seven produced more content for use across its 
own channels than ever before including the launch 
of a number of new productions.

International earnings growth delivered record 
Seven Studios EBIT, up 8 per cent during the year. 

7plus (long form streaming platform) launched 
and scaled to 2.6 million monthly average unique 
audience (UA) in the first 6 months, resulting in 100 
per cent year-on-year growth in Seven’s digital 
advertising revenue. 

Seven secured the Australian Cricket rights until 
2024, adding to AFL and giving the Network the 
rights to the Number 1 Summer and Winter sports.

Cost out exceeded target leading to $21m net cost 
reduction and 7 per cent headcount reduction. 

Key efficiency projects including industry Playout 
Joint Venture and Sydney building consolidation. 

Pacific reduced costs by 20 per cent, growing EBIT 
by 175 per cent.

A new Performance and Development Framework 
was implemented, providing greater alignment to 
the Group’s strategy.

Exceeded target on all safety metrics including 
significant cost reduction. 

Key milestones met in the Group’s Industrial 
Relations reform.

The STI measures are designed to align individual performance to the achievement of the Company’s strategy and the 
increase of shareholder value.

The financial measures reward Executives on the Company’s financial performance. Revenue and EBIT targets were 
determined to be the most effective measures of the current year’s operating performance. Given the Company’s 
focus on increasing balance sheet strength and flexibility, it was also appropriate to include a target net debt outcome. 

Other strategic objectives reflected in the performance measures for the year included audience targets, continued growth 
in content production and monetisation, reduction in operating expenditure and staff development and performance.

71

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 
5.3 Equity Granted to the MD & CEO and Executive KMP

For the FY18 STI awards, 50 per cent will be granted as Restricted Shares to Executives under the STI Plan on or 
about 1 September 2018. The estimated number and fair value of the Restricted Shares at 29 June 2018 is based 
on 50 per cent of the STI awards.

FY18  
Deferred  
STI1

 $

FY18 LTI2

 $

Total

 $

Estimated 
Fair 
Value Per 
Restricted 
Share at 
Grant Date

Estimated 
Number of 
Restricted 
Shares

Number 
of Shares 
Vested 
During FY18

Financial 
Year in 
which Grant 
Vests

179,400

1,300,000

1,479,400

213,571

56,687

36,850

71,594

44,887

38,878

312,500

137,500

181,250

112,500

275,000

369,187

174,350

252,844

157,387

313,878

67,485

43,869

85,231

53,438

46,283

$0.84

$0.84

$0.84

$0.84

$0.84

$0.84

–

–

–

–

–

–

June 2020

June 2020

June 2020

June 2020

June 2020

June 2020

Name

TG Worner

KJ Burnette

CR Dickens

WO Lynch

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

1.  The column reflects the number of Restricted Shares that will be granted with respect to the FY18 deferred STI in September 2019. 50 per 

cent of the FY18 deferred award is recognised in FY18 and 50% will be recognised in FY19. Restricted Shares are not subject to any further 
performance conditions except continued employment. Note that during FY18, Restricted Shares in respect of FY17 STI awards were 
allocated.

2.  Subject to performance conditions and due to vest 1 July 2020.

5.4 MD & CEO and Executive KMP STI Outcomes

The Board approved the MD & CEO and the Executive KMP’s FY18 STI outcomes. In doing so, it considered the 
performance of the individual, the business and overall Company performance. 

At the start of each year, stretching yet achievable performance objectives are set for the MD & CEO and Executive 
KMP. When Executives deliver on-target performance at a Company and individual level (taking into consideration 
the Company’s values and compliance standards), then STI awards are likely to be around the target. 

At year end, each Executive’s performance is assessed against their objectives for the year, and also taking into 
consideration compliance standards and their demonstration of the Company’s values. The MD & CEO assesses 
the performance of the Executive KMP and makes recommendations to the Remuneration and Nomination 
Committee. The Committee assesses the performance of the MD & CEO and makes recommendations to the 
Board on both the MD & CEO and the Executive KMPs’ performance and remuneration outcomes.

The average STI outcome for Executive KMP is 28 per cent of target (where target represents an Executive’s 
maximum STI opportunity for the year), which is well aligned with the Company’s overall performance. The STI 
differentiation at an individual level ranges between 18 per cent to 40 per cent of target. The differentiation in 
outcomes reflects the relative performance of each division and individuals, and demonstrates the ‘at risk’ nature of 
STI. These outcomes demonstrate a clear link between performance and reward at both a Company and individual 
level for the 2018 financial year. Further details are provided in Section 6 of the Report. 

72

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT5.5 Summary of LTI Outcomes

The vesting outcomes for the FY15 LTI grant to the MD & CEO and other Executive KMP that reached the 
completion of the performance period during FY18 are shown below.

Performance Range

Performance  
Measure

Performance 
Start Date

Test Date

Threshold Maximum Outcome

% Vested % Lapsed

TSR 
(50% of Award)

DEPS 
(50% of Award)

1 July 2014

30 June 2017

51st  
Percentile

75th  
Percentile

1 July 2014

30 June 2017

50th 
Percentile

75th  
Percentile

TSR of -48.1% 
(ranked at 3.3rd  
percentile)

DEPS (excluding 
significant items)  
of 40.8 cents

0%

100%

0%

100%

6. Executive Remuneration – The Details 

6.1 Executive Remuneration Framework

The approach taken to remuneration is to ensure 
remuneration packages appropriately reflect Executives’ 
duties, responsibilities and performance against 
objectives, as well as ensuring that remuneration 
appropriately attracts and motivates people of the 
highest quality, having particular regard to the relative 
scarcity of suitably qualified executive talent in the 
Australian media and entertainment industry, and the 
complexity of the Seven West Media business relative to 
its direct media peers.

In structuring remuneration, the Board aims to find 
a balance between fixed remuneration and ‘at risk’ 
variable remuneration; cash and deferred equity; and 
short, medium, and long-term rewards in line with the 
Company’s performance cycle.

The remuneration framework is outlined in the table 
below and explained in detail in Section 6 of the Report.

Composition of Executive Remuneration and 
Application of Remuneration Principles

Executive remuneration is determined by the 
Remuneration and Nomination Committee and, for 
the MD & CEO, is recommended to the Board for their 
approval. Executive remuneration comprises both a 
fixed component and a variable (or “at risk”) component 
which comprises separate STI and LTI elements. These 
components are explained in detail below.

The remuneration level for the MD & CEO, Mr 
Tim Worner, has not changed since Mr Worner’s 
commencement as Chief Executive Officer on  
1 July 2013.

The Company’s remuneration is linked to the drivers 
of our business strategy, helping to create sustainable 
value for shareholders. The Company’s remuneration 
strategy is designed to support and reinforce its 
business strategy. The ‘at-risk’ components of 
remuneration are tied to measures that reflect the 
successful execution of our business strategy in both 
the short and long-term. Our strategic drivers are 
reflected in both STI and LTI performance measures 
which demonstrates that actual performance directly 
influences what Executives are paid.  

73

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTThe remuneration framework is outlined in the table below and explained in detail in Section 6 of the Report.

Remuneration Policy and Objectives

Seven West Media’s remuneration framework is designed to:

Provide  
market  
competitive  
and fair 
remuneration

Align  
remuneration 
with shareholder 
interests

Enable  
recruitment 
and retention 
of talented 
employees

Support 
appropriate  
culture and 
employee  
conduct

Differentiate pay 
for performance 
and behaviour 
in line with our 
strategy and vision

Be simple,  
flexible and 
transparent

Executive Remuneration Structure

Component

Determination

Fixed

Total Employment 
Remuneration (TER)

Fixed remuneration is set  
based on relevant market  
data relativities, reflecting: 

 ƒ size and complexity  

of the role;

 ƒ individual responsibilities and 

performance; and

 ƒ experience and qualifications.

At Risk

Short Term 
 Incentive (STI)

Long Term  
Incentive (LTI)

STI rewards financial and non-
financial performance consistent 
with the Company’s strategy 
over the short to medium term.

STI performance criteria are set 
by reference to:

 ƒ Group EBIT and revenue;
 ƒ strategic programs;
 ƒ audience and customers;
 ƒ people and leadership; and 
 ƒ individual performance 

targets relevant to the specific 
position.

LTI ensures alignment of 
Executive accountability and 
remuneration outcomes for 
sustainable long-term growth 
and shareholder return.

LTI targets are linked to the 
relative Total Shareholder Return 
(TSR) performance measure 
and an individual performance 
condition over a three-year 
vesting period.

Delivery

Fixed remuneration and 
superannuation and may include 
prescribed non-financial benefits 
at the Executives’ discretion on a 
salary sacrifice basis.

STI is delivered as:

 ƒ 50% cash; and 
 ƒ 50% in Restricted Shares, 

subject to service conditions.

Equity in Performance Rights. All 
equity is held subject to service 
and performance over a three 
(3) year performance period. 
The equity is at risk until vesting. 
Performance is tested once at 
the vesting date.

Strategic Intent & 
Market Positioning

Fixed remuneration is  
positioned around the market 
median with reference to 
relevant market-based data 
in the Australian media and 
entertainment industry.

Performance incentive is directed 
to achieving Board approved 
targets, reflective of market 
circumstances. Combined, 
fixed remuneration and STI is 
intended to be positioned in 
the 3rd quartile of the relevant 
benchmark comparisons.

LTI is intended to reward 
Executive KMP for sustainable 
long-term growth aligned to 
shareholders’ interests. LTI 
allocation values are intended 
to be positioned at the top of 
the 3rd quartile of the relevant 
benchmark comparisons.

Target 
Remuneration Mix

MD & CEO:         50%

Executive KMP:  57%

25%

29%

25%

14%

Total Target Remuneration (TTR)

TTR is positioned to achieve the remuneration objectives outlined above. Out-performance generates higher reward.  
The remuneration structure is designed to ensure top quartile Executive KMP remuneration is only achieved if the Company  
out-performs against stated targets.

74

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT6.1.1 Fixed Remuneration

Short-Term Incentive Plan

Fixed remuneration is expressed as a total dollar 
amount which is delivered as cash salary and employer 
contributions to superannuation funds as well as any 
ongoing employee benefits on a salary-sacrificed basis. 
It provides a fixed level of income commensurate with 
the Executive’s role, responsibilities, qualifications, and 
experience, and is set by considering peer market data. 

6.1.2 Short-Term Incentive (STI)

STI rewards the achievement of pre-determined, individual 
and Company Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) over the 
12-month performance period which are aligned to and 
supportive of the Company’s annual strategic objectives. 
STI awards are delivered in cash and deferred shares.

Seven West Media STI Plan

The STI Plan is an award used to provide clear 
motivation to focus on strategically-aligned metrics and 
goals that can be measured annually. The award reflects 
the achievement of specific objectives that are based on 
a rigorous bottom-up budgeting process. 

The Company’s STI Plan covers employees in executive 
and senior management positions, including the MD & 
CEO and Executive KMP. It provides participants with 
the opportunity to earn an annual incentive, based 
on the achievement of Company and individual KPIs. 
Further details on the STI Plan are set out below.

STI 
Opportunity

Each Executive’s STI opportunity for on-target performance is 50 per cent of fixed remuneration. ‘On-target’ 
refers to the STI award opportunity for an Executive who achieves successful performance against all KPIs 
and where 100 per cent of the Group’s underlying EBIT target is achieved. EBIT is defined as the Group’s 
profit before significant items, net finance costs and tax.

Delivery  
of Awards

50 per cent is paid in cash at the end of the annual Performance and Remuneration Review (usually in the 
September pay cycle). To support an ownership culture and drive retention outcomes, 50 per cent of the STI 
award is deferred in the form of Restricted Shares over 12 months. 

The number of Restricted Shares allocated to each Executive will be determined by dividing the dollar 
amount of the STI award deferred into Restricted Shares by the average cost per share purchased on 
market (rounded down to the nearest whole number of shares). 

The Restricted Shares are usually allocated in September following the end of the relevant financial year 
and are held on trust on behalf of each Executive, and Executives have entitlements to dividends and 
voting rights in relation to their Restricted Shares during the vesting period.  For disclosure and expensing 
purposes, we use the one-day Volume-Weighted Average Price (VWAP) to determine the fair value. 

STI targets for the MD & CEO and Executive KMP are set by the Remuneration and Nomination Committee 
and approved by the Board at the start of each performance year, based on a range of factors including market 
competitiveness and the responsibilities of each role. The STI targets for the FY8 performance year did not 
increase.

Performance is measured against risk-adjusted financial targets and non-financial targets which support the 
Company’s strategy. Performance measures are based on performance at Group, divisional and individual 
level. The deferred STI awards recognise past performance and are not subject to further performance 
hurdles (other than continued service). Refer Section 5 on the MD & CEO’s balanced scorecard. 

Target 
Opportunity

Performance 
Conditions

Assessment of 
Performance 
Outcomes

STI outcomes are subject to both a quantitative and qualitative assessment. The Board has the capacity 
to adjust STI outcomes (and reduce STI outcomes to zero if appropriate) in the assessment process. No 
downward adjustment was applied to the deferred remuneration of the MD & CEO and Executive KMP 
during FY18.

Determination of the STI Pool at Group Level 

The Company’s STI pool is based on performance. The size of the pool available for distribution as STI awards is 
based on the achievement of the Group’s underlying EBIT target set by the Board at the beginning of the financial 
year and is based on the following table.

Percentage of Group  
Underlying EBIT Achieved (%)

STI Award Pool Available  
(% of On-Target)

<90

90–94

95–99

100

0%

25%

50%

100%

The Board retains discretion to not make an STI award available to Executives where such payment is regarded to be 
inconsistent with the shareholders’ interests over the financial year, even if the gateway requirement is achieved.

75

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTDetermination of STI at an Individual Level 

At an individual level, STI is designed to focus Executive KMP on key performance measures supporting the 
Company’s business strategy and encourage the delivery of value for shareholders. 

Performance Objectives Set 
 ƒ Individual objectives are agreed for the MD & CEO and Executive KMP, using a 

balanced scorecard approach under the five categories of (i) Financial, (ii) Audience  
& Customer, (iii) Content & Product; (iv) Operational; and (v) People and Leadership. 
 ƒ The weighting of measures varies to reflect the responsibilities of an individual’s role. 
 ƒ Many of these measures relate to the contribution towards short to medium term 

performance outcomes aligned to the Company’s strategic objectives. 

 ƒ This methodology is replicated across the Company for all employees reflecting the 

individual’s responsibilities.

Beginning of 
Performance 
Period

r
a
e
Y

l

i

a
c
n
a
n
F

i

i

a
d
e
M

t
s
e
W
n
e
v
e
S

End of 
Performance 
Period

Performance Assessed against Objectives 
 ƒ The performance of the MD & CEO and each Executive KMP is assessed against 

their objectives and compliance standards. 

 ƒ The Remuneration & Nomination Committee seeks input from the MD & CEO, and 

CFO (on financial performance and internal audit matters).

 ƒ The Committee reviews (and the Board reviews and approves) the performance 

outcomes for the CEO and each Executive KMP.

Determination of Remuneration Outcomes 
 ƒ The Committee considers the performance of the Group, division and individual  
to determine remuneration recommendations for the MD & CEO and Executive  
KMP respectively. 

 ƒ Where the MD & CEO and Executive KMP deliver on-target performance at a Group 
and individual level (taking into consideration the Company’s values and compliance 
standards), then incentive award recommendations are likely to be around target 
opportunity. Recommendations will be adjusted up or down in line with performance.  

 ƒ The Committee’s recommendations are then reviewed and ultimately approved by  

the Board.

Minimum Individual Performance Measure

In addition to the financial targets that must be achieved 
for an STI award to be available, achievement of a 
minimum individual performance rating is required for an 
Executive to be eligible for an award under the STI Plan.

Performance Measurement

The MD & CEO assesses each Executive’s performance 
at the end of the financial year relative to agreed 
business and individual targets. Based on this 
assessment, the MD & CEO makes a recommendation 
to the Committee for approval.

Based on each Executive’s individual performance 
rating, the MD & CEO may apply a discretionary 
adjustment or modifier during the performance 
assessment process. Discretionary adjustments are 
applicable to individual STI awards and are limited to 
a 25 per cent increase to the overall award for each 
Executive, provided the total awarded remains within 
the incentive pool available based on the achievement 
of group underlying EBIT. The level of discretionary 
adjustment applied is based on the Executive’s 
individual performance rating and represents the 
maximum individual award opportunity for significant 
out-performance. 

The Committee assesses the MD & CEO’s performance 
and makes a recommendation to the Board for 
approval. The Committee may apply an additional 
discretionary adjustment based on the MD & CEO’s 
individual performance rating that is limited to the same 
parameters as for other Executives.

76

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 ƒ Remove the DEPS performance hurdle to alleviate 
the difficulty of setting appropriately challenging 
DEPS targets in the current volatile business 
environment;

 ƒ Selected a single, more straightforward relative TSR 
performance hurdle, measuring the Company’s TSR 
against the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary 
Index as it includes companies in the media industry 
and other consumer-focused sectors such as 
services, hospitality, travel and leisure. The previous 
TSR performance hurdle measured the Company’s 
TSR performance against a group of selected 
companies of a similar market capitalisation but 
included businesses which were not appropriate 
comparators to the Company; and

 ƒ Incorporate an individual performance hurdle to 

further align executive remuneration outcomes with 
performance.

The FY18 TSR hurdle will be measured from 1 July 2017 
to 30 June 2020.

6.1.3 Long-Term Incentive (LTI)

LTI rewards performance over the longer term and 
is designed to encourage sustained performance, 
drive long-term shareholder value creation and ensure 
alignment of executive remuneration outcomes to 
shareholder interests. LTI awards are delivered in 
the form of Performance Rights subject to Company 
performance hurdles and individual service conditions 
being met.

Long-Term Incentive Plan

The LTI Plan is a means to align incentive pay with 
specific corporate results measured over three years. 
LTI Plan metrics and peers are approved by the Board 
for the beginning of the three-year performance period 
and are performance-granted with vesting following the 
end of the performance period. 

New LTI Plan in FY18

During FY8, the Remuneration and Nomination 
Committee reviewed the Executive Remuneration 
Framework to ensure it supports the achievement 
of the Company’s strategic objectives. The review 
considered a range of factors including market practice, 
changes in market conditions, regulatory developments, 
feedback from shareholders and proxy advisors, and 
our overarching remuneration principles. Following the 
review, the Board decided to:

77

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTKey Terms of FY18 LTI Awards  

The new LTI grant was awarded at the beginning of the FY18 performance year. Key features of the Plan are 
provided in the following table.

Seven West Media Long-Term Incentive Plan

What is granted?

How many Performance 
Rights are granted?

The grant is made in the form of Performance Rights. The Performance Rights are granted at no 
cost and each right entitles the participant to one ordinary share in the Company, subject to the 
achievement of the performance hurdles and service conditions outlined below. As Performance 
Rights are automatically exercised at vesting, no expiry date applies.

The value of LTI granted is allocated annually and, for the MD & CEO is 50 per cent of the MD 
& CEO’s fixed remuneration and for other Executives is 25 per cent of the participant’s fixed 
remuneration. The number of Performance Rights granted to each Executive is equivalent to 
the face value of the LTI grant divided by an amount calculated based on the share price in 
accordance with the terms and conditions of the Plan.

What is the performance 
hurdle?

Performance Rights are subject to continued employment with Seven West Media, a single 
relative Total Shareholder Return (RTSR) and an individual performance condition. 

Why was the TSR 
performance hurdle 
chosen, and how is 
performance measured?

Relative TSR provides an indicator of shareholder value creation by comparing the Company’s 
return to shareholders relative to other companies of similar size. TSR provides an external, 
market-based hurdle and creates the alignment of executive remuneration outcomes to 
shareholder returns. Participants will not derive any benefit from this portion of the grant unless 
the Company’s performance is recorded above the median of the Comparator Index.

The relative TSR of Seven West Media is compared to the performance of the S&P/ASX 200 
Consumer Discretionary Accumulation Index (Accumulation Index) over the performance period. 
The level of out-performance of Seven West Media, compared with the Accumulation Index, is 
used to determine the proportion of awards that are available to vest as per the schedule below. 
The TSR of Seven West Media is calculated based on the 60-day trading average share price 
up to, but not including, the start and end of the performance period, adjusted for dividends and 
capital movements.

The performance of the Accumulation Index is calculated based on the index levels at the start 
and end of the performance period.

TSR performance is monitored and assessed by an independent advisor. The percentage of 
TSR Performance Rights that vest (if any) at the end of the three-year performance period will be 
based on the following schedule:

Company’s TSR Performance Relative to the 
Index over the Performance Period

Proportion of  
Performance Rights Vesting

Outperform Index by at least 10%

100%

Outperform the Index by up to 10%

Pro-rata from 50% to 100%

Equal to or less than the Index

100

Nil

100%

How is the Individual 
performance condition 
determined?

Incorporating an individual performance hurdle, in addition to the relative TSR performance 
measure, will further align executive remuneration outcomes and performance. To the extent 
that any Performance Rights become available to vest based on the relative TSR hurdle, the 
percentage of awards that vest will be determined based on the balanced scorecard of Key 
Performance Indicator (KPI) outcomes over the performance period. The minimum percentage  
of Performance Rights that can possibly vest, subject to the KPI hurdle, is 0%.

The number of Performance Rights that vest will be calculated based on the following formula:

Number of Performance Rights available to vest, based on TSR performance

multiplied by

The average of the Executive’s individual KPI outcomes 
(expressed as a percentage) for the relevant three (3) financial years of the  
performance period

78

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORTSeven West Media Long-Term Incentive Plan

When will performance 
be tested? 

Awards are subject to a three-year performance period. Shortly after the completion of the 
performance period, the performance hurdles are tested to determine whether, and to what 
extent, awards vest. The LTI Plan does not permit re-testing. Any Performance Rights that do 
not vest following testing of performance hurdles (i.e. at the end of the three-year performance 
period) will lapse.

Disposal restrictions on 
vested shares

There is a restriction imposed of the sale of shares acquired after vesting (to the extent the 
performance hurdles are achieved) until the earliest of the following:

Do the Performance 
Rights carry dividend  
or voting rights?

What happens in the 
event of a change in 
control?

What happens if the 
participant ceases 
employment?

Are participants allowed 
to hedge their LTI award?

 ƒ The date the Executive ceases employment with Seven West Media;
 ƒ The one-year anniversary of the vesting date (or subsequent anniversaries (if elected by the 

Executive); or

 ƒ The Board determines that the restriction should be released. 

Performance Rights do not carry any dividend or voting rights prior to vesting.

In the event of a change of control of the Company, unvested Performance Rights may vest to 
the extent the performance hurdles are considered to have been achieved to the date of the 
transaction. The Board will have discretion to determine whether any additional vesting should 
occur. 

If the participant ceases employment before the end of the performance period by reason of 
death, disablement, retirement, redundancy or for any other reason approved by the Board, 
unvested awards remain on-foot, subject to original performance hurdles, although the Board 
may determine that some or all of the awards should be forfeited. If the participant ceases 
employment before the end of the performance period by reasons other than outlined above, 
unvested awards will automatically lapse.

Under the Seven West Media Equity Plan Rules, Executives who are granted share-based 
payments, such as Performance Rights under the LTI Plan as part of their remuneration, are 
prohibited from entering into other arrangements that limit their exposure to losses that would 
result from share price decreases.

Grants Under the Previous LTI Plan

Under the previous LTI Plan, grants were made in FY13, FY14, FY15 and FY16. Only the FY16 LTI grant remains  
on-foot. For further details on the features of the previous Plan, refer to the Company’s 2017 Remuneration Report.

6.2 Link Between Remuneration Policy and Company Performance

MD & CEO Performance Objectives and Key Highlights

The Remuneration and Nomination Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the Board on individual 
performance objectives for the MD & CEO. These objectives are intended to provide a robust link between 
remuneration outcomes and the key drivers of long-term shareholder value. The STI objectives are set in the form of 
a balanced scorecard with targets and measures aligned to the Company’s strategic priorities cascaded from the 
MD & CEO scorecard to the relevant Executive KMP scorecard. The key financial and non-financial objectives for 
the MD & CEO in the 2018 financial year, with commentary on key highlights are provided in Section 5 of the Report.

Group Financial Performance – Five Year Perspective

In FY18, the Remuneration Policy was linked to profit before significant items, net finance costs and tax (EBIT), 
DEPS (excluding significant items) and TSR performance of the Group. 

79

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTThe following table sets out the Group’s performance over the last 5 financial years:

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

Profit before significant items1, net finance 

costs and tax (EBIT) ($’000’s)

235,636 

261,385

318,126

356,333

Statutory NPAT ($’000’s)

134,894 

(744,996)

184,289

(1,887,377)

NPAT (excluding significant items)1,2 ($’000’s)

142,463 

166,809

207,343

209,145

Diluted earnings per share (as reported) (cents)

Diluted earnings per share  

(excluding significant items)1 (cents) 

Dividend per share (cents)

Share price as at reporting date3 ($)

Return on capital employed (%)

8.9 

9.4

 –

0.84 

15.91 

(49.5)

12.2

(181.1)

11.0

6

0.70

18.58

13.7

8

1.08

14.44

16.0

12

1.05

16.20

408,177

149,188

236,228

12.6

19.9

12

1.89

9.70

1.  Significant items is a non-IFRS measure. For details of significant items refer note 1.4 to the financial statements.

2.  NPAT (excluding significant items) is a non-IFRS measure. This measure is applied consistently year on year and used internally by 

management to assess the performance of the business and hence is provided to enable an assessment of remuneration compared to Group 
performance. Refer to the Operating and Financial Review for reconciliation to statutory net profit after tax.

3.  The opening share price on the first day of trading in FY14 was $1.80.

Company performance is linked to the STI Plan through the underlying EBIT hurdle, and for the LTI Plan, Company 
performance is linked through the relative TSR target.

The Company continues to operate in intensively competitive markets. Executive ‘at-risk’ remuneration outcomes 
are dependent on the Company and Group’s financial performance reflecting the Board’s commitment to 
maintaining the link between executive remuneration and Company performance.

6.3 FY18 Executive Remuneration Outcomes

Under the design of the STI Plan, a pool may be available for distribution where the Group’s underlying EBIT 
threshold target is met as set out in Section 6.1.2 of the Report.

The Group’s underlying EBIT result of $235.6m opened the financial gateway for FY18. 

This table shows the STI awarded to the MD & CEO and Executive KMP for the year ending 30 June 2018 and 
what this represents as a percentage of their target opportunity. The average STI awarded to the MD & CEO and 
Executive KMP is 28% of target which is well aligned with the Group performance assessment outcome.

Name

FY18 STI 
Outcome   

 $

STI Outcome 
as a % of 
Target    

 $

Actual Cash 
STI 

Actual 
Deferred STI 

(50%)    

 $

(50%)    

 $

Target STI    

 $

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer

1,300,000

358,800

28%

179,400

179,400

TG Worner

Executive KMP

KJ Burnette

CD Dickens

WO Lynch

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

625,000

275,000

362,500

225,000

412,500

113,375

73,700

143,188

89,775

77,756

56,688

36,850

71,594

44,888

38,878

56,687

36,850

71,594

44,887

38,878

18%

27%

40%

40%

19%

0%

Former Executive KMP

BC Fair2

275,000

–

–

–

100%

STI Outcome 
Forfeited as a 
% of Target1    

 $

72%

82%

73%

60%

60%

81%

Total Executives

3,475,000

856,594

428,298

428,296

1.  Target represents an Executive’s maximum STI opportunity for the year.

2.  Refer Section 2 of the Report for details on relevant dates.

80

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT 
 
 
6.4 Executive Service Agreements

The terms of employment for the MD & CEO and other Executive KMP of the Seven West Media Group, are 
formalised in their employment agreements, the major provisions of which are set out below.

Name

TG Worner

KJ Burnette

CR Dickens

WO Lynch

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

Duration of Contract

Open-ended

Open-ended

Open-ended

Open-ended

Open-ended

Open-ended

Period of Notice Required 
to Terminate the Contract

Twelve months’ notice

Six months’ notice

Six months’ notice

Six months’ notice

Three months’ notice

Three months’ notice

Contractual 

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

6.5 Non-Executive Director Remuneration 
Framework

Non-Executive Director remuneration consists of the 
following components:

Fees and payments to Non-Executive Directors 
reflect the demands which are made on, and the 
responsibilities of, the Non-Executive Directors. Seven 
West Media’s Non-Executive Director remuneration 
framework is designed to attract and retain 
experienced, qualified Board members and remunerate 
them appropriately for their time and expertise.

Fees and payments are reviewed by the Committee 
and, where appropriate, changes are recommended 
to the Board. The Committee has the discretion to 
directly seek the advice of independent remuneration 
consultants to ensure Non-Executive Director fees are 
appropriate and in line with the market. 

In setting Board and Committee fees, consideration 
is given to general industry practice; best principles of 
corporate governance; the responsibilities and risks 
attached to the Non-Executive Director role; the time 
commitment expected of Non-Executive Directors on 
Company matters; and fees paid to Non-Executive 
Directors of comparable companies. 

The Board compares Non-Executive Director fees to a 
comparator group of Australian listed companies with 
a similar market capitalisation, with particular focus on 
the major media organisations. This is considered an 
appropriate group, given similarity in size, nature of work 
and time commitment by Non-Executive Directors. 

The Chairman’s fees are determined in the same way.

 ƒ Base Fee – This fee is paid as cash and is for 

service as a Non-Executive Director of the Seven 
West Media Board. The base fee for the Chairman 
of the Board covers all responsibilities, including all 
Board Committees.

 ƒ Committee Fees – These additional fees are also 
paid as cash to other Non-Executive Directors for 
chairing or participating in Board Committees.
 ƒ Employer Superannuation Contributions – This 
component reflects statutory superannuation 
contributions which are capped at the 
superannuation maximum contributions base as 
prescribed under the Superannuation Guarantee 
legislation.

To maintain independence and impartiality, Non-
Executive Director fees are not linked to the Company’s 
performance or short-term results. Likewise, Non-
Executive Directors are not eligible to participate in any 
of the Company’s performance-based remuneration 
arrangements.

6.5.1 Fee Pool

The aggregate of payments each year to Non-Executive 
Directors must be no more than the amount approved 
by shareholders in the Annual General Meeting (AGM). 
The current aggregate fee pool is $1,900,000 which is 
inclusive of employer superannuation contributions, was 
approved at the 2013 AGM held on 13 November 2013. 
The aggregate of payments to Non-Executive Directors 
in FY18 did not exceed the approved amount.  For the 
year ended 30 June 2018, $1.33 million (70%) of this fee 
pool was used. 

81

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORT6.5.2 Non-Executive Director Remuneration in FY18

During the year, the Board reviewed the base fees received by Non-Executive Directors and determined that, in 
support of the cost reduction commitments announced at the 2017 AGM on 2 November 2017, base Non-Executive 
Directors’ fees and the Chairman’s fee be immediately reduced by 20% for the balance of the financial year. In 
recognition of the Company’s cost management achievements during the year, from 1 July 2018 the Chairman’s fee 
and Non-Executive Director fees were reinstated to the fees in place prior to the reduction announced at the 2017 
AGM. 

Other than an increase to the Audit & Risk Committee Chair fee from $26,000 to $40,000 in July 2017 (in 
recognition of the considerable time commitment and wide range of responsibilities that the Audit & Risk Committee 
Chair consistently fulfils), there has been no increase to the fees paid to Non-Executive Directors since their 
approval in 2011.

The fees for the year to 30 June 2018 are provided in the table below:

Base Fee

Chairman

Non-executive Directors

Committee Chairman Fees 

Audit & Risk Committee

Remuneration Committee

Committee Membership Fees 

Audit & Risk Committee

Remuneration Committee

Annual Rate

Prior to  
3 November  
2017

Effective  
3 November  
2017

335,000 

268,000 

135,000 

108,000 

40,000 

20,000 

20,000 

10,000 

40,000 

20,000 

20,000 

10,000 

6.5.3 Changes to Board and Committee Composition

The following changes were made to Board and Committee composition:

 ƒ Dr Michelle Deaker resigned effective 2 November 2017 following the 2017 Annual General Meeting;
 ƒ Teresa Dyson was appointed as a Non-Executive Director to the Seven West Media Board effective  

2 November 2017 and was appointed as Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee effective 19 February 2018;

 ƒ David Evans stepped down as Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee on 19 February 2018 (remaining a 

member of that Committee); and

 ƒ Michael Ziegelaar was appointed as a Non-Executive Director to the Seven West Media Board effective  

2 November 2017. 

82

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORTn

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83

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7.2. Non-Executive Remuneration in Detail

Details of the remuneration of the Company’s Non-Executive Directors for the year ended 30 June 2018 are set out 
in the following table.

Name

Current Non-Executive Directors

KM Stokes, AC, Chairman

JH Alexander

T Dyson2

D Evans

PJT Gammell

JG Kennett AC

M Malone

RK Stokes

M Ziegelaar2

Former Non-Executive Director

ME Deaker2

Total Non-Executive Director 
Fees3

Short-Term  
Benefits

Post-Employment 
Benefits

Seven West 
Media Board  
Fees1   

Non-Monetary  
Benefits    

Superannuation    

 $

 $

 $

Financial 
Year    

Total    

 $

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

270,787

315,384

125,301

141,553

78,768

–

143,743

168,950

119,822

136,073

116,169

132,420

119,822

136,073

116,169

132,420

65,374

–

67,455

159,000

21,341

27,129

–

–

943

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,451

–

–

–

20,049

19,616

11,904

13,447

7,483

–

13,656

16,050

11,383

12,927

11,036

12,580

11,383

12,927

11,036

12,580

6,211

–

–

–

312,177

362,129

137,205

155,000

87,194

–

157,399

185,000

131,205

149,000

127,205

145,000

131,205

149,000

127,205

145,000

73,036

–

67,455

159,000

1,223,410

23,735

104,141

1,351,286

1,321,873

27,129

100,127

1,449,129

1. 

Includes fees paid to the Chairman and members of Board Committees.

2.  Reflects remuneration during the period Non-Executive Directors held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details of 

appointment dates.

3.  The total fees for 2017 reflect the prior year’s remuneration for the 2017 reported Non-Executive Directors.

7.3 Key Management Personnel Equity Transactions and Holdings

7.3.1  Equity Incentive Plan Holdings

Equity grants under the LTI Plan and the STI Plan are made in accordance with the Seven West Media Equity 
Incentive Plan Rules. 

84

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FY18 LTI Grant and Prior Year LTI Grants

Details of vesting profiles of the Performance Rights granted as remuneration in FY18 to the MD & CEO and each 
Executive KMP of the Company under its LTI Plan, including prior years’ Performance Rights that remain unvested 
and on-foot, are provided below.

Number of 
Performance 
Rights

Name

Fair Value Per 
Right at Grant 
Date: TSR 
Component

Fair Value Per 
Right at Grant 
Date: DEPS 
Component 

Number  
of Rights 
Vested 
During FY18 

Percentage 
of Rights 
Forfeited in 
FY18

Financial 
Year in 
which Grant  
may Vest

Grant  
Date1

TG Worner

2,037,617

01-Feb-18

KJ Burnette

CR Dickens

WO Lynch

K McGrath

489,811

01-Feb-18

215,517

01-Feb-18

284,090

01-Feb-18

176,332

01-Feb-18

BI McWilliam

431,034

01-Feb-18

TG Worner

2,031,250

04-Apr-16

KJ Burnette

CR Dickens

BC Fair

WO Lynch

488,281

04-Apr-16

214,843

04-Apr-16

214,843

04-Apr-16

94,401

04-Apr-16

BI McWilliam

429,687

04-Apr-16

TG Worner

KJ Burnette

CR Dickens

BC Fair

833,333

15-Jun-15

192,307

15-Jun-15

38,782

15-Jun-15

88,141

15-Jun-15

BI McWilliam

176,282

15-Jun-15

$0.16

$0.16

$0.16

$0.16

$0.16

$0.16

$0.47

$0.47

$0.47

$0.47

$0.47

$0.47

$0.11

$0.11

$0.11

$0.11

$0.11

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

$0.86

$0.86

$0.86

$0.86

$0.86

$0.86

$0.88

$0.88

$0.88

$0.88

$0.88

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

100

100

100

100

100

Jun-21

Jun-21

Jun-21

Jun-21

Jun-21

Jun-21

Jun-19

Jun-19

Jun-19

Jun-19

Jun-19

Jun-19

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

1.  LTI awards granted prior to FY18 were subject to performance conditions: 50% DEPS and 50% TSR measured against a comparator group of 15 S&P/ASX 
200 companies above and 15 companies below Seven West Media’s 12-month average market capitalisation ranking (excluding trusts and companies 
classified under the Metals and Mining Global Industry Classification System (GICS)). These awards are subject to a three-year performance period.

With respect to the FY18 LTI grant, the maximum possible total value of each grant assuming all vesting conditions 
are met is calculated as the number of Performance Rights times the fair value. This maximum value, measured 
under applicable accounting standards, will be recognised as statutory remuneration on a straight line basis equally 
over the three financial years 2018, 2019 and 2020. If all vesting conditions are met, this will be received by each 
Executive in the year of vesting. The minimum possible total value is nil where the vesting conditions are not met.

Prior Year’s Short–Term Incentive Award

The following table shows the number of Restricted Shares that were allocated during FY18 to Executives under the 
STI Plan as the deferred component of their FY17 STI award.

Name

TG Worner

Number 
of Shares 
Granted

–

Grant  
Date

NA

KJ Burnette

51,539

6 October 2017

CR Dickens

43,701

6 October 2017

BC Fair1

53,150

6 October 2017

WO Lynch

59,163

6 October 2017

KA McGrath

–

NA

BI McWilliam

63,780

6 October 2017

Fair Value 
Per Share at 
Grant Date

Number 
of Shares 
Vested 
During FY18

Percentage 
Vested  
in FY18

Percentage 
Forfeited  
in FY18

Financial 
Year in 
which  
Grant Vests

–

$0.73

$0.73

$0.73

$0.73

–

$0.73

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

NA

June 2019

June 2019

June 2019

June 2019

NA

June 2019

1.  The Board exercised its discretion for unvested STI allocations to remain on foot subject to the Plan Rules and existing vesting date, and LTI 

allocations will remain on foot subject to the Plan Rules and existing vesting criteria.

85

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORTThe maximum possible total value of the grant assuming all vesting conditions are met is the number of shares 
times the fair value based on the share price at 6 October 2017. If all vesting conditions are met, this will be received 
by each Executive in the year of vesting. The minimum possible total value is nil where the vesting conditions are  
not met.

7.3.2 Total Performance Rights Holdings

The total number of Performance Rights in the Company held during the financial year by the MD & CEO and each 
Executive KMP of the Group are set out in the table below.

Performance Rights 
Granted as Remuneration

Performance  
Rights Vested

Name

Financial 
Year

Opening 
Balance

Number 
Granted1

Value 
Granted1

Number 
Vested2

Number 
Vested2

Number of 
Performance 
Rights Lapsed

Closing 
Balance

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer

TG Worner

Executive KMP 

KJ Burnette

CR Dickens

WO Lynch

KA McGrath

BI McWilliam

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

Former Executive KMP 

BC Fair3

Total

2018

2017

2018

2017

2,864,583 

2,037,617 

326,019 

3,483,631 

– 

2,316,615 

680,588 

489,811 

78,370 

823,445 

– 

547,591 

253,625 

215,517 

34,483 

253,625 

– 

168,661 

94,401 

284,090 

45,454 

94,401 

– 

176,332 

62,777 

28,213 

– 

– 

605,969 

431,034 

68,965 

736,921 

302,984 

362,508 

– 

– 

– 

490,052 

– 

241,068 

4,802,150

3,634,401

581,504

5,754,531

–

3,826,764

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

–

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

(833,333)

4,068,867

(619,048)

2,864,583

(192,307)

978,092

(142,857)

680,588

(38,782)

430,360

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

253,625

378,491

94,401

176,332

– 

(176,282)

860,721

– 

(130,952)

605,969

 –

 –

–

–

(88,141)

214,843

(59,524)

302,984

(1,328,845)

7,107,706

(952,381)

4,802,150

1.  Based on fair value at grant date of $0.16.

2.  No hurdled Performance Rights granted in FY15 vested in September 2017 and all of these Performance Rights lapsed the TSR and DEPS 

performance hurdles were not satisfied.

3.  Reflects remuneration during the period BC Fair held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details on relevant dates.

86

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7.3.3 Equity Holdings and Transactions of Executive Key Management Personnel

The table below provides details of equity granted as remuneration and the number of ordinary shares in the 
Company held during the financial year by the MD & CEO and each Executive KMP of the Company held directly, 
indirectly, beneficially and including their personally-related entities.

MD & CEO and Executive KMP Equity Granted, Vested, Exercised and Lapsed

Type of  
Equity-Based 
Instrument

Name

Number 
Held at 
Start of 
the Year

Number 
Granted 
During the 
Year as 
Remuneration1

Received 
on 
Exercise 
and/or 
Exercised 
During 
the Year

Number 
Lapsed 
During 
the Year

Other 
Changes 
During the 
Year

Number 
Held  
at End of 
the Year

Number 
Vested and 
Exercisable 
at End of 
the Year2

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer

TG Worner

Deferred Shares

– 

Ordinary Shares

293,810 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

293,810 

Performance  
Rights

Executive KMP 

2,864,583 

2,037,617 

– 

(833,333)

– 

4,068,867 

KJ Burnette

Deferred Shares

– 

51,539 

Ordinary Shares

6,565 

– 

Performance  
Rights

680,588 

CR Dickens

Deferred Shares

– 

Ordinary Shares

4,000 

Performance  
Rights

253,625 

WO Lynch

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

Performance  
Rights

KA McGrath

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

Performance  
Rights

BI McWilliam

Deferred Shares

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

489,811 

43,701 

– 

215,517 

59,163 

– 

– 

– 

176,332 

63,780 

– 

94,401 

284,090

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(192,307)

– 

– 

(38,782)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

Ordinary Shares

611,044 

Performance  
Rights

Former Executive KMP 

BC Fair2

Deferred Shares

Ordinary Shares

Performance  
Rights

605,969 

431,034 

– 

(176,282)

– 

– 

302,984 

53,150 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(88,141)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

51,539 

6,565 

978,092 

43,701 

4,000 

430,360 

59,163 

– 

378,491

– 

– 

176,332 

63,780 

611,044 

860,721 

53,150 

– 

214,843 

1.  FY17 deferred STI Restricted Shares were allocated in September 2017. The balance of Performance Rights at the end of the year  

are unvested rights.

2.  Reflects remuneration during the period BC Fair held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details on relevant dates.

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

87

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-Executive Directors

The number of ordinary shares in the Company held during the financial year by each Non-Executive Director of Seven 
West Media Limited held directly, indirectly, beneficially and including their personally-related entities are set out in the 
tables below. 

Name

Type of  
Equity-Based 
Instrument

Number Held 
at Start of 
the Year

Number 
Granted During 
the Year as 
Remuneration

Number 
Lapsed 
During the 
Year

Other 
Changes 
During the 
Year

Number 
Held at End 
of the Year

Chairman of the Seven West Media Board

KM Stokes AC

Ordinary Shares

619,753,734 

Non-Executive Directors

JH Alexander

Ordinary Shares

55,768 

T Dyson1

D Evans

PJT Gammell

JG Kennett AC

M Malone

RK Stokes

M Ziegelaar1

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary Shares

– 

927,803 

329,216 

75,000 

133,000 

240,466 

– 

Former Non-Executive Directors

ME Deaker1

Ordinary Shares

26,161 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

–  619,753,734 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

55,768 

– 

927,803 

329,216 

75,000 

133,000 

240,466 

– 

26,161 

1.  Reflects remuneration during the period Non-Executive Directors held office during the year. Refer Section 2 of the Report for details on 

appointment dates.

8. Loans and Other Transactions with Key Management Personnel

During FY18, a company associated with a Director, Mr Jeffrey Kennett AC, was party to a consulting agreement 
with the Group. The consulting agreement provides for the services of Mr Jeffrey Kennett AC to be supplied to 
Seven West Media to perform the role of political commentator, independent of his duties as a Non-Executive 
Director with Seven West Media. Total fees paid during the year in relation to this consulting agreement were 
$220,000 (2017: $200,000). There were no other transactions with Key Management Personnel during FY18.

All other transactions involving the Non-Executive Directors, the MD & CEO and Executive KMP and their related 
parties are conducted on normal commercial terms and conditions that are no more favourable than those given to 
other employees or customers. Any that are on-foot, are trivial or domestic in nature.

There were no loans provided to KMP during FY18. 

End of Remuneration Report.

88

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845REMUNERATION REPORTAuditor’s Independence Declaration

Lead Auditor’s Independence Declaration under Section 307C  
of the Corporations Act 2001 

To the Directors of Seven West Media Limited

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit of Seven West Media Limited 
for the financial year ended 30 June 2018 there have been:

i.  no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Corporations Act 2001 

in relation to the audit; and

ii.  no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation  

to the audit.

KPMG  

Tracey Driver 
Partner

Sydney

21 August 2018 

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG 
network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International 
Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under 
Professional Standards Legislation.

89

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYDIRECTORS’ REPORT 
 
 
Financial statements

Seven West Media Limited 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Introduction and  
basis of preparation

Seven West Media (SWM) is a for-
profit company limited by shares 
and incorporated in Australia whose 
shares are publicly traded on the 
Australian Securities Exchange. The 
financial statements are for the Group 
consisting of Seven West Media 
Limited (the “Company” or “Parent 
Entity”) and its subsidiaries, all of 
which are for-profit entities. 

The consolidated general purpose 
financial report has been prepared in 
accordance with the requirements of 
the Corporations Act 2001 and the 
Australian Accounting Standards and 
other authoritative pronouncements 
of The Australian Accounting 
Standards Board and International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

The financial statements are 
presented in Australian dollars (AUD) 
and all values are rounded to the 
nearest $1,000 unless otherwise 
stated under the option available 
to the Company under Australian 
Securities and Investments 
Commission (ASIC) Corporations 
Instrument 2016/191.

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

All new and amended Accounting 
Standards and Interpretations issued 
by the AASB that are relevant to the 
Group and effective for the current 
reporting period have been adopted. 
Refer to Note 7.5 for further details.

The consolidated financial  
statements were authorised for  
issue by the Board of Directors  
on 21 August 2018.

The financial statements have been 
prepared using the historical cost 
basis except for derivative financial 
instruments and assets held for sale 
which have been measured at fair 
value and share rights which have 
been valued using option pricing 
models.

90

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSTable of Contents

Financial Statements

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income  

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position  

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity  

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows  

Notes to the Financial Statements  

Directors’ Declaration  

Independent Auditor’s Report  

ASX Information

Company Information  

Investor Information  

Shareholder Information  

Note Index

 92

 93

 94

 95

 96

 141

 142

 148

 149

 150

1.  Group Performance

3.    Other Key Balance  

6.   Group Structure 

1.1  Segment Information

1.2  Revenue and Other Income

1.3  Expenses

1.4  Significant Items

1.5  Earnings Per Share 

Sheet Items

3.1 

Intangible Assets

3.2  Property, Plant  
and Equipment

3.3  Provisions 

2.  Working Capital 

2.1  Cash and Cash equivalents

2.2  Trade and Other Receivables

2.3  Program Rights  

and Inventories

2.4  Trade and Other Payables

2.5  Commitments

4.   Taxation

4.1  Taxes 

4.2  Deferred Tax Assets  
and Liabilities 

5.   Capital Management 

5.1  Borrowings

5.2  Share Capital

5.3  Dividends 

5.4  Share-Based Payments

5.5  Capital and Financial  
Risk Management

6.1  Equity Accounted Investees

6.2  Investments in  

Controlled Entities

6.3  Parent Entity  

Financial Information

6.4  Business Combinations

6.5  Related Party Transactions

7.   Other 

7.1  Remuneration of Auditors 

7.2  Contingent Liabilities 

7.3  Events Occurring after  
the Reporting Date 

7.4  Assets Held for Sale 

7.5  Summary of  

Other Significant  
Accounting Policies 

91

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Revenue

Other income

Revenue and other income

Expenses

Impairment of intangible assets

Impairment of investments and other assets

Write down of assets held for sale

Redundancy and restructure costs 

Onerous contracts

Net gain on sale of other assets

Net gain (loss) on disposal of investments and controlled entities

Share of net profit of equity accounted investees

Profit (loss) before net finance costs and tax

Finance costs

Finance income

Profit (loss) before tax

Tax (expense) benefit 

Profit (loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income (expense)

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:

Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash flow hedges

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations

Tax relating to items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax

Total comprehensive income (expense) for the year

Total comprehensive income (expense) attributable to:

Owners of the Company

Non-controlling interests

Total comprehensive income (expense) for the year

Notes

 1.2 

 1.2 

 1.3 

 1.4 

 1.4 

 1.4 

 1.4 

 1.4 

 1.4 

 1.4 

 6.1 

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 1,620,618 

 1,673,575 

 474 

 5,409 

 1,621,092 

 1,678,984 

 (1,387,160)

 (1,418,048)

 – 

 (558,768)

 (1,253)

 (276,424)

 (11,868)

 (11,311)

 – 

 (6,881)

 – 

 (139,582)

 8,224 

 7,713 

 1,704 

 – 

 (7,138)

 449 

 227,141 

 (727,408)

 (36,804)

 (40,044)

 1,449 

 1,490 

 191,786 

 (765,962)

 4.1 

 (56,892)

 20,966 

 134,894 

 (744,996)

 3,490 

 434 

 (1,047)

 2,877 

 5,011 

 (810)

 (1,504)

 2,697 

 137,771 

 (742,299)

 138,658 

 (741,629)

 (887)

 (670)

 137,771 

 (742,299)

Earnings per share for profit (loss) attributable to the ordinary equity holders of 
the Company

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

 1.5 

 1.5 

 8.9 cents 

 (49.5 cents) 

 8.9 cents 

 (49.5 cents) 

The above consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income should be read in conjunction with the 
accompanying notes.

92

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Statement of Financial Position
AS AT 30 JUNE 2018

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Current tax receivable

Program rights and inventories

Assets held for sale

Other assets

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Program rights

Equity accounted investees

Other investments

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Deferred tax assets

Other assets

Total non-current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred income

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred income

Deferred tax liabilities

Borrowings

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

EQUITY

Share capital

Reserves

Non-controlling interests

Accumulated deficit

Total equity

Notes

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 2.1 

 2.2 

 2.3 

 7.4 

 2.3 

 6.1 

 3.2 

 3.1 

 4.2 

 2.4 

3.3

 2.4 

 3.3 

 4.2 

 5.1 

 142,163 

 69,490 

 276,986 

 276,074 

 9,119 

 3,972 

 205,068 

 186,255 

 35,500 

 7,070 

 – 

 4,359 

 675,906 

 540,150 

 2,169 

 3,445 

 28,384 

 2,559 

 51,362 

 21,384 

 141,572 

 159,559 

 1,033,962 

 1,019,902 

 – 

 6,968 

 8,653 

 4,181 

 1,216,500 

 1,267,600 

 1,892,406 

 1,807,750 

 280,247 

 279,488 

 104,477 

 26,858 

 84,929 

 36,357 

 411,582 

 400,774 

 29,785 

 24,053 

 137,186 

 164,399 

 – 

 4,456 

 8,919 

 – 

 776,647 

 795,159 

 952,537 

 988,067 

 1,364,119 

 1,388,841 

 528,287 

 418,909 

 5.2 

 3,393,546 

 3,393,546 

 545 

 (1,071)

 (2,526)

 (1,758)

 (2,864,733)

 (2,970,353)

 528,287 

 418,909 

The above consolidated statement of financial position should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

93

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Cash 
flow 
hedge 
reserve

Equity 
compen-
sation 
reserve

 Reserve 
for own 
shares

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve

Share 
capital

Accum-
ulated 
deficit

Non-
cont-
rolling 
Interests

Total 

Total  
Equity

Notes

$'000

$'000

$'000

$'000

$'000

$'000

$'000

$'000

$'000

Balance at 25 June 2016

 3,393,145 

 (7,030)

 3,472 

 (1,517)

 54 

 (2,135,583)

 1,252,541 

 – 

 1,252,541 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 5,011 

 – 

 (1,504)

 3,507 

 – 

 3,507 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (810)

 – 

 (810)

 (744,326)

 (744,326)

 (670)

 (744,996)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 5,011 

 (810)

 (1,504)

2,697

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 5,011 

 (810)

 (1,504)

2,697

 (810)

 (744,326)

 (741,629)

 (670)

 (742,299)

Loss for the year

Cash flow hedge gains taken to equity

Foreign currency translation differences

Tax on other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income 

(expense) for the year, net of tax

Total comprehensive income 

(expense) for the year

Transactions with owners in 
their capacity as owners

Shares sold pursuant to 

cancellation of loan plan

5.2

 401 

Shares transferred from treasury pursuant 

to vesting of share buy back

Dividends paid

5.3

Share based payment expense 

Acquisition of NCI

–

 – 

 – 

 – 

Total transactions with owners

 401 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (920)

 920 

 – 

 (202)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (1,122)

 920 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 401 

 – 

 (90,444)

 (90,444)

 (202)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 401 

 – 

 (90,444)

 (202)

 – 

 (1,088)

 (1,088)

 (90,444)

 (90,245)

 (1,088)

 (91,333)

Balance at 24 June 2017

 3,393,546 

 (3,523)

 2,350 

 (597)

 (756)

(2,970,353)

 420,667 

 (1,758)

 418,909 

Profit (loss) for the year

Cash flow hedge gains taken to equity

Foreign currency translation differences

Tax on other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income  

for the year, net of tax

Total comprehensive income 

(expense) for the year

Transactions with owners in 
their capacity as owners

Dividends paid

5.3

Share based payment expense 

Acquisition of NCI

Total transactions with owners

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 3,490 

 – 

 (1,047)

 2,443 

 – 

 2,443 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 194 

 – 

 194 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 434 

 – 

 434 

 135,781 

 135,781 

 (887)

 134,894 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 3,490 

 434 

 (1,047)

 2,877 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 3,490 

 434 

 (1,047)

 2,877 

 434 

 135,781 

 138,658 

 (887)

 137,771 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (30,161)

 (30,161)

 194 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (30,161)

 194 

 – 

 1,574 

 1,574 

 (30,161)

 (29,967)

 1,574 

 (28,393)

Balance at 30 June 2018

 3,393,546 

 (1,080)

 2,544 

 (597)

 (322)

 (2,864,733)

 529,358 

 (1,071)

 528,287 

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

94

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSConsolidated Statement of Cash Flows
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

Notes

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

Cash flows related to operating activities

Receipts from customers

Payments to suppliers and employees

Dividends received from equity accounted investees

 6.1 

Dividends received other

Interest and other items of similar nature received

Interest and other costs of finance paid

Income taxes paid, net of refunds

Net operating cash flows

Cash flows related to investing activities

Payments for purchases of property, plant and equipment

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Payments for intangibles

Payments for equity accounted investees

Proceeds from sale of equity accounted investees

Payments for other investments

Proceeds on sale of subsidiaries

Payment for purchase of controlled entities, net of cash acquired

Loans issued to investees

Net investing cash flows

Cash flows related to financing activities

Proceeds from shares sold pursuant to cancellation of loan plan

Proceeds from borrowings

Repayment of borrowings

Dividends paid

Net financing cash flows

 1,737,591 

 1,840,818 

 (1,510,690)

 (1,614,036)

 1,000 

 – 

 1,226 

 (33,593)

 (43,428)

 6,280 

 206 

 1,059 

 (37,648)

 (56,437)

 2.1 

 152,106 

 140,242 

 (10,182)

 (20,004)

 253 

 1,807 

 (18,889)

 (11,939)

 – 

 300 

 (1,063)

 4,945 

 (2,444)

 (2,192)

 (3,165)

 6,500 

 (3,014)

 – 

 (18,839)

 (9,804)

 (29,272)

 (58,458)

 – 

 566 

 115,000 

 346,000 

 (135,000)

 (363,204)

 5.3 

 (30,161)

 (90,444)

 (50,161)

 (107,082)

 72,673 

 69,490 

 142,163 

 (25,298)

 94,788 

 69,490 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

 2.1 

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

95

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTSSECTION 1

Group Performance

1.1. Segment Information

1.1A. Description of segments

Accounting policy
For management purposes, the Group is organised into business units based on its products and services and has four 
reportable segments, as follows:

Reportable Segment Description of Activities

Television

The West

Production and operation of commercial television programming and stations.

Publishers of newspapers and insert magazines in Western Australia; Quokka (weekly classified 
advertising publication); Colourpress; Digital publishing and West Australian Publishers.

Pacific

Publisher of magazines in print and digital editions.

Other Business  
and New Ventures

Made up of equity accounted investees including TX Australia, Oztam, Starts at 60, Yahoo7 until 
reclassified to asset held for sale; Radio (radio stations broadcasting in regional areas of Western 
Australia) and RED Live.

The chief operating decision makers, responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating 
segments, have been identified as the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, Business Segment Chief Executive 
Officers and other relevant members of the executive team. 

Segment performance is evaluated based on a measure of profit / (loss) before significant items, net finance costs and tax.

Revenue from external sales is predominantly to customers in Australia and total segment assets are predominantly held  
in Australia.

Total assets and liabilities by segment are not provided regularly to the chief operating decision makers and as such, are not 
required to be disclosed.

1.1B. Segment information

Year ended 30 June 2018

REF

$’000

$’000

Television

The West 

Other 
Business 
and New 
Ventures

Corporate 
[B]

$’000

 $’000

Pacific

$’000

Revenue from continuing operations

1,264,861 

 204,066 

 139,474 

 12,217 

Other revenue

Share of net profit of equity  
accounted investees

Revenue, other income and share of net 
profit of equity accounted investees

 109 

 – 

 29 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 336 

 1,704 

1,264,970 

 204,095 

 139,474 

 14,257 

 – 

 1,622,796 

Total

$’000

 1,620,618 

 474 

 1,704 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Expenses

(1,024,642)

 (172,753)

 (129,619)

 (9,571)

 (15,325)

 (1,351,910)

Profit (loss) before significant items,  

net finance costs, tax, depreciation  
and amortisation 

 240,328 

 31,342 

 9,855 

 4,686 

 (15,325)

 270,886 

Depreciation and amortisation

 [A]

 (24,344)

 (10,290)

 (304)

 (312)

 – 

 (35,250)

Profit (loss) before significant items, 

net finance costs and tax

 215,984 

 21,052 

 9,551 

 4,374 

 (15,325)

 235,636 

96

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total

$’000

 1,673,575 

 5,409 

 449 

 – 

 – 

 – 

1.1B. Segment information 

Year ended 24 June 2017

REF

$’000

$’000

Television

The West 

Other 
Business 
and New 
Ventures

Corporate 
[B]

$’000

 $’000

Pacific

$’000

Revenue from continuing operations

1,275,871 

 217,242 

 167,991 

 12,471 

Other revenue

Share of net profit of equity  
accounted investees

Revenue, other income and share of net 
profit of equity accounted investees

 5,109 

 300 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 449 

 1,280,980 

 217,542 

 167,991 

 12,920 

 – 

 1,679,433 

Expenses

 (1,009,845)

 (170,877)

 (161,808)

 (13,907)

 (16,336)

 (1,372,773)

Profit (loss) before significant items,  

net finance costs, tax, depreciation  
and amortisation 

 271,135 

 46,665 

Depreciation and amortisation

 [A]

 (21,476)

 (20,633)

 6,183 

 (2,707)

 (987)

 (390)

 (16,336)

 306,660 

 (69)

 (45,275)

Profit (loss) before significant items, 

net finance costs and tax

 249,659 

 26,032 

 3,476 

 (1,377)

 (16,405)

 261,385 

A.  Excludes program rights amortisation which is included in media content expenses (refer note 1.3). 

B.  Corporate is not an operating segment. The amounts presented are unallocated costs.

1.1C. Other segment information 

The chief operating decision makers assess the performance of the operating segments based on a measure of earnings before net 
finance costs and tax. This measurement basis excludes the effects of significant items from the operating segments.

Reconciliation of profit before significant items, net finance costs and tax

Profit before significant items, net finance costs and tax

Finance costs 

Finance income

Profit before tax excluding significant items

Significant items before tax (refer note 1.4)

Profit (loss) before tax

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 235,636 

 261,385 

 (36,804)

 (40,044)

 1,449 

 1,490 

 200,281 

 222,831 

 (8,495)

 (988,793)

 191,786 

 (765,962)

97

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1.2. Revenue and Other Income

Accounting policy

Revenue recognition and measurement

The Group recognises revenue when:
 ƒ the revenue can be reliably measured;
 ƒ it is probable the future economic benefits will flow to the entity; and
 ƒ specific criteria have been met for each of the Group’s activities as described below.

Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Amounts disclosed as revenue are net of 
agency commissions, discounts, rebates, returns, trade allowances and duties and taxes paid.

Revenue is recognised for the major business activities as follows:

Description of Activities

[A]  Advertising

[B]  Circulation

[C] Program sales includes:

Recognised when the advertisement has been published, broadcast or streamed.

Recognised on delivery of the newspaper or magazine to the customer and the right to 
be compensated has been obtained.

(i)  3rd party  

Recognised in line with percentage of completion of the commissioned program.

commissioned program

(ii) distribution royalty

Recognised as it is earned in line with the distribution contract terms and conditions.

[D] Affiliate fees

[E] Rendering of services

[F] Other revenue includes:

Government grants

Recognised in the period of the broadcast feed to the affiliates in line with the contract 
terms and conditions.

The revenue is recognised when the service has been performed. Mostly relating  
to printing services.

Recognised initially as deferred income when it is highly probable that the grant  
will be received. This may include the following:

(i) cash grants or funding

Recognised when all attaching conditions will be complied with.

(ii) reimbursement of expense Recognised over the periods necessary to match the costs that it is intended to compensate.

(iii)  reimbursement for  

Recognised over the lifetime of the asset on a systematic basis.

cost of asset

Rental income

Dividends

Recognised on a straight line basis over the term of the lease.

Recognised when the right to receive payment is established. 

Sales revenue

Advertising revenue

Circulation revenue

Program sales 

Affiliate fees

Rendering of services

Other revenue

Total sales revenue

Other income

Dividends received

Sundry income

Net gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment and investments

Total other income

98

REF

[A]

[B]

[C]

[D]

[E]

[F]

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 1,219,128 

 1,248,294 

 159,377 

 170,980 

 89,611 

 97,305 

 99,961 

 105,880 

 23,322 

 29,219 

 26,634 

 24,482 

 1,620,618 

 1,673,575 

 – 

 23 

 451 

 474 

 206 

 2,472 

 2,731 

 5,409 

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20181.3. Expenses

Profit (loss) before tax includes the following specific expenses:

Depreciation and amortisation (excluding program rights amortisation)

Advertising and marketing expenses

Printing, selling and distribution (including newsprint and paper)

Media content (including program rights amortisation)

Employee benefits expense (excluding significant items)

Raw materials and consumables used (excluding newsprint and paper)

Repairs and maintenance

Licence fees

Rental expense relating to operating leases

Other expenses from ordinary activities

Total expenses

Included in the expenses above are the specific items [A] to [B] from continuing operations:

[A]  Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Amortisation of intangible assets

Television program rights amortisation

Total depreciation and amortisation

[B]  Employee benefits expense

Defined contribution superannuation expense

Total employee benefits expense

REF

 [A] 

 [A] 

 [B] 

2018

$’000

 (35,250)

 (41,670)

 (81,727)

2017

$’000

 (45,275)

 (44,599)

 (93,070)

 (655,843)

 (661,865)

 (395,519)

 (399,765)

 (8,102)

 (17,828)

 (32,710)

 (21,832)

 (9,611)

 (18,501)

 (17,566)

 (24,214)

 (96,679)

 (103,582)

 (1,387,160)

 (1,418,048)

 (25,029)

 (10,221)

 (34,890)

 (10,385)

 (111,184)

 (114,909)

 (146,434)

 (160,184)

 (357,834)

 (362,986)

 (37,685)

 (36,779)

 (395,519)

 (399,765)

99

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1.4. Significant Items

Profit (loss) before tax expense includes the following specific expenses for which disclosure is relevant in explaining the financial 
performance of the Group: 

REF

2018

$’000

Impairment of Television goodwill

Impairment of Television licences

Impairment of Pacific and The West goodwill

Impairment of Pacific and The West mastheads

Impairment of other intangible assets

Total impairment of intangible assets

Impairment of equity accounted investees

Impairment of fixed assets

Impairment of other assets

Total impairment of investments and other assets

Write down of assets held for sale

Redundancy and restructure costs 

Onerous contracts

Net gain on sale of other assets

Net gain (loss) on disposal of investments and controlled entities

Total significant items before tax

Tax benefit

Net significant items after tax

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[B]

[A]

[C]

[D]

[E]

[F]

[G]

[H]

2017

$’000

 (3,450)

 (432,388)

 (28,879)

 (80,463)

 (13,588)

 (558,768)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (1,253)

 (179,493)

 – 

 – 

 (34,165)

 (62,766)

 (1,253)

 (276,424)

 (11,868)

 (11,311)

 – 

 (6,881)

 – 

 (139,582)

 8,224 

 7,713 

 – 

 (7,138)

 (8,495)

 (988,793)

 926 

 76,988 

 (7,569)

 (911,805)

A.  The impairments in FY17 were recognised as a result of changes to 

D.  In June 2018, write down of assets held for sale relate to  

key assumptions in the Group’s cash flow forecasts, these include:

Yahoo!7 Pty Ltd. Refer note 7.4 for detail.

Television

 ƒ Medium and long term growth rates for traditional Free to Air 

television metro advertising market.

The West and Pacific

E.  The redundancy and restructure costs relate to transformation 

programs across the Group.

F. 

In June 2017, the Group recognised an onerous contract provision 
in relation to its television legacy output deals, US content, one-off 
sporting events rights and other service contracts. 

 ƒ Further declines in circulation and advertising revenue in print 

G.  In June 2018, the net gain relates to the sale of sporting rights.

publishing businesses.

Refer note 3.1 for details.

B.  An impairment review of the Group’s equity accounted investees and 

its loans was performed, resulting in an impairment of  
$1.3m (FY17: $179.5m). 

C.  In June 2017, the recoverable amount of program rights, inventories 
and other assets were lower than the carrying value, resulting in an 
impairment of $62.8m.

H.  In June 2018, net gain on disposal relates to the sale of 7Wonder 

Productions Limited. 

In June 2017, net loss on disposal relates to Presto TV Pty Limited  
and Australian News Channel Pty Limited investments.

100

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20181.5. Earnings Per Share

Accounting policy

Basic earnings per share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the net 
profit (loss) attributable to ordinary equity holders of the 
Company by the weighted average number of ordinary 
shares outstanding during the financial year.

Diluted earnings per share 

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the 
figures used in the determination of basic earnings per share 
to take into account the after tax effect of interest and other 
financing costs associated with dilutive potential ordinary 
shares and the weighted average number of additional 
ordinary shares that would have been outstanding assuming 
the conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

Retrospective adjustments

If the number of ordinary or potential ordinary shares 
outstanding increases as a result of a capitalisation, bonus 
issue or share split, or decreases as a result of a reverse 
share split, the calculation of basic and diluted earnings 
per share for all periods presented shall be adjusted 
retrospectively. In addition, basic and diluted earnings per 
share of all periods presented shall be adjusted for the 
effects of errors and adjustments resulting from changes in 
accounting policies, accounted for retrospectively.

Basic earnings per share

Profit (loss) attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the Company

 8.9 cents 

(49.5 cents)

Diluted earnings per share

Profit (loss) attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the Company

 8.9 cents 

(49.5 cents)

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

Earnings used in calculating earnings per share

Profit (loss) attributable to the ordinary equity holders of the Company used in 
calculating basic and diluted earnings per share.

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 135,781 

 (744,326)

2018

2017

 Number 

 Number 

Weighted average number of shares used as the denominator

Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year used in the 
calculation of basic earnings per share

1,507,840,662  1,507,447,478 

101

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SECTION 2

Working Capital

2.1. Cash And Cash Equivalents

Accounting policy
Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of financial position and statement of cash flows includes cash on hand and 
deposits held at call or with maturities of three months or less with financial institutions.

Cash at bank and on hand 

Cash at banks earns interest at floating rates based on daily bank deposit rates.

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 142,163 

 69,490 

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying amount. The exposure to interest rate risk is discussed  
in note 5.5.

Reconciliation of operating profit (loss) after tax to net cash provided by operating activities

Profit (loss) for the year:

Non-cash items:

 134,894 

 (744,996)

Depreciation and amortisation of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

 35,250 

 45,275 

Amortisation of television program rights

Impairment of intangible assets and equity accounted investees

 111,184 

 114,909 

 1,253 

 738,261 

Write down of assets held for sale

Impairment of tangible assets

Net gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment, computer software  

and equity accounted investees

Share based payment expense

Dividend received from equity accounted investees less share of profit of equity  

accounted investees

Movement in unamortised finance costs

Other non-cash items

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect from acquisitions:

(Increase) decrease in:

Trade and other receivables

Inventories

Program rights

Other assets

Increase (decrease) in:

Trade and other payables

Program liabilities

Provisions

Other liabilities

Tax balances

Net cash inflow from operating activities

102

 11,868 

 – 

 (8,448)

 194 

 (704)

 1,488 

 (12,108)

 (3,094)

 1,955 

 (131,563)

 (556)

 (14,571)

 24,824 

 (7,665)

 (5,559)

 – 

 34,165 

 (6,057)

 (202)

 5,831 

 (592)

 4,890 

 16,327 

 1,643 

 (41,876)

 947 

 (42,458)

 (12,803)

 110,999 

 (8,358)

 13,464 

 (75,663)

 152,106 

 140,242 

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20182.2. Trade and Other Receivables

Accounting policy

Trade receivables

Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value 
and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the 
effective interest method, less provision for impairment. 
Trade receivables are generally settled within 30-90 days 
and are non-interest bearing.

The collectability of trade receivables is reviewed on an 
ongoing basis. A provision for doubtful debts is used when 
there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able 
to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of 
receivables. Debts which are known to be uncollectable are 
written off by reducing the carrying amounts directly. 

The amount of the impairment loss of receivables is 
recognised in profit or loss in other expenses. Subsequent 
recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited 
against other expenses in profit or loss.

Loans and other receivables

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets 
with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in 
an active market.

They arise when the Group provides money, goods or 
services directly to a third party. They are included in 
current assets, except for those with maturities greater than 
12 months after the reporting period which are classified as 
non-current assets. Loans and receivables are carried at 
estimated future cash flow. 

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

Current

Trade receivables

 289,964 

 263,968 

Provision for doubtful debts

 (4,133)

 (3,961)

Provision for sales credits  

 (35,852)

 (32,773)

and returns

 249,979 

 227,234 

Loans and other receivables

 27,007 

 48,840 

Total trade and other receivables

 276,986 

 276,074 

Movements in the provision for doubtful debts are as follows:

Balance at the beginning of the 

 3,961 

 4,569 

financial year

Net movement in provision 

recognised during the year

Amount utilised

Balance at the end of the 

financial year

 291 

 122 

 (119) 

 4,133 

 (730)

 3,961 

Refer to note 5.5 regarding information on the Group’s exposure  
to credit and market risks, and impairment losses for trade  
and other receivables.

Refer to note 6.5 regarding receivables from related parties.

Key judgements, estimates and assumptions

Impairment of receivables

The provision for impairment of receivables assessment requires a degree of estimation and judgement. The level of provision is 
assessed by taking into account the recent sales experience, the ageing of receivables, historical collection rates and specific 
knowledge of the individual debtor’s financial position.

The ageing of the Group’s trade receivables net of provision for sales credits and returns at the reporting date was:

$'000

Not past due

< 30 days

31 – 120 days

> 120 days

Total

Past due but not impaired

Year ended 30 June 2018

Net receivables

Provision for doubtful debts

Year ended 24 June 2017

Net receivables

Provision for doubtful debts

 241,488 

 – 

 241,488 

 224,522 

 – 

 224,522 

 8,019 

(3,281) 

 4,738 

 3,985 

(2,976) 

 1,009 

 4,220 

(575) 

 3,645 

 2,353 

(902) 

 1,451 

 385 

(277) 

 108 

 335 

(83) 

 252 

 254,112 

(4,133) 

 249,979 

 231,195 

(3,961) 

 227,234 

103

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2.3. Program Rights and Inventories

Accounting policy

Program rights

Program rights includes both purchased rights and produced 
programs.

Program rights are recognised at the earlier of when cash 
payments are made or from the commencement of the rights 
period of the contract. 

Television program rights are carried at the lower of cost less 
amortisation or net recoverable amount. Cost comprises 
acquisition of program rights and, for programs produced 
using the Group’s facilities, direct labour and materials and 
directly attributable fixed and variable overheads. Revenue 
is derived from the broadcast of advertisement on Seven 
channels and digital assets, net of agency commissions, 
discounts and rebates. 

The Group’s amortisation policy requires the amortisation of 
purchased programs on a straight line basis over the expected 
useful life.

The useful life of purchased programs is assessed at least 
annually. Produced programs are expensed when broadcast 
or in full on the twelfth month after the completion period.

Inventories

Inventories, which includes newsprint, paper, finished 
goods, raw material and work in progress, are measured at 
acquisition cost, cost of manufacturing or net realisable value. 
The net realisable value is the estimated achievable selling 
price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated 
costs through to completion and the estimated necessary 
selling costs.

Current

Television program rights – cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment

Newsprint and paper – at cost

Work in progress – at cost

Other raw materials – at net realisable value

Non-current

Prepaid Television program rights

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 186,643 

 165,875 

 11,632 

 12,083 

 3,414 

 3,379 

 4,993 

 3,304 

 205,068 

 186,255 

 2,169 

 2,169 

 2,559 

 2,559 

Program rights and inventory expense

Program rights and inventories recognised as an expense during the year ended 30 June 2018 amounted to $111,184,000  
(2017: $114,909,000) and $39,270,000 (2017: $44,068,000) respectively.

Key judgements, estimates and assumptions
The Group recognises program rights which are available for use. These are capitalised and amortised over the useful life of the 
content. The assessment of the appropriate carrying value of these rights requires estimation by management of the forecast 
future cash flows which will be derived from that content. This estimate is based on a combination of market conditions and the 
value generated from the broadcast of comparable programs.

104

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20182.4. Trade and Other Payables

Accounting policy

Trade payables and accruals

Trade and other payables represent liabilities for goods and 
services provided to the Group prior to the end of financial 
year which are unpaid. 

The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 30-60 
days from the end of the month in which they are incurred and 
are non-interest bearing. 

Derivative financial liabilities

Derivative financial instruments on recognised liabilities are 
used in the normal course of business in order to hedge 
exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and foreign currency 
exchange rates. These derivatives are designated as cash 
flow hedges. 

Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date 
a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently 
remeasured to their fair value at the end of each reporting 
period. The Group documents at the inception of the 
transaction the relationship between hedging instruments  
and hedged items, as well as its risk management objective 
and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. The 
Group also documents its assessment, both at hedge inception 
and on an ongoing basis, of whether the derivatives that are 
used in hedging transactions have been and will continue 
to be highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of 
hedged items. The fair values of derivative financial instruments 
designated as cash flow hedges are disclosed below. 

Movements in the hedging reserve in shareholders’ equity are 
shown in the statement of changes in equity. The full fair value 
of a hedging derivative is classified as a non-current asset or 
liability when the remaining maturity of the hedged item (i.e. 
cash flows) is more than 12 months; it is classified as a current 
asset or liability when the remaining maturity of the hedged 
item is less than 12 months. 

The gain or loss from re-measuring the hedging instruments 
to fair value is recognised in other comprehensive income and 
accumulated in a hedging reserve, to the extent that the hedge 
is effective, and is recognised in profit or loss within finance 
costs when the hedged interest expense is recognised. The 
gain or loss relating to any ineffective portion is recognised 
immediately in profit or loss.

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold or terminated, 
or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge 
accounting, any cumulative gain or loss existing in equity 
at that time remains in equity and is recognised when the 
forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in profit or loss. 
When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, 
the cumulative gain or loss that was reported in equity is 
immediately reclassified to profit or loss.

Television program liabilities

Television program liabilities are recognised from the 
commencement of the rights period of the contract. Contract 
payments made prior to commencement of the rights period 
are disclosed as a prepayment and included under television 
program rights and inventories.

Current

Trade payables and accruals

Derivative financial liabilities

Television program liabilities

Non-current

Trade payables and accruals

Derivative financial liabilities

Television program liabilities

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 158,444 

 173,643 

 30 

 44 

 121,773 

 105,801 

 280,247 

 279,488 

 3,822 

 3,281 

 22,682 

 29,785 

 4,512 

 5,712 

 13,829 

 24,053 

105

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2.5. Commitments

Year ended 30 June 2018

Capital expenditure commitments

Operating lease commitments

<1 year

1–5 years

> 5 Years

$’000

$’000

$’000

Total

$’000

 4,632 

 – 

 – 

 4,632 

 18,221 

 68,718 

 77,028 

 163,967 

Contracts for purchase of television programs and sporting broadcast rights

 385,737 

 1,085,735 

 93,496 

 1,564,968 

Contracts for employee services

Contracts for other services

Year ended 24 June 2017

Capital expenditure commitments

Operating lease commitments

 39,603 

 13,407 

 – 

 53,010 

 22,939 

 21,627 

 22,838 

 67,404 

 471,132 

 1,189,487 

 193,362 

 1,853,981 

 3,246 

 – 

 – 

 3,246 

 21,133 

 71,857 

 92,228 

 185,218 

Contracts for purchase of television programs and sporting broadcast rights

 311,003 

 849,453 

 90,705 

 1,251,161 

Contracts for employee services

Contracts for other services

 56,779 

 24,252 

 – 

 81,031 

 46,125 

 31,811 

23,085

 101,021 

 438,286 

 977,373 

 206,018 

1,621,677 

Types of Commitments

Capital expenditure commitments

Commitments for the acquisition of property, plant and 
equipment contracted for at the reporting date but not 
recognised as liabilities.

Operating lease commitments 

Operating lease commitments relate to minimum lease 
payments on non-cancellable leases contracted for at the 
reporting date but not recognised as liabilities. 

Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards 
of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as 
operating leases. 

Payments made under operating leases (net of any incentives 
received from the lessor) are charged to profit and loss on a 
straight line basis over the period of the lease.

The Group leases various offices, equipment, sites and 
residential premises under non-cancellable operating leases 
expiring within 1 to 12 years (2017: 1 to 13 years).  
The leases have varying terms, escalation clauses and 
renewal rights. On renewal, the terms of the leases are 
renegotiated.

Contracts for purchase of television programs and sporting 
broadcast rights

Commitments for minimum payments in relation to non-
cancellable purchase contracts of television programs and 
sporting broadcast rights at the reporting date but not 
recognised as liabilities.

Contracts for employee services

Commitments for minimum payments in relation to non-
cancellable contracts for employee services at the reporting 
date but not recognised as liabilities.

Contracts for other services

Commitments for minimum payments in relation to non-
cancellable contracts for other services at the reporting date 
but not recognised as liabilities.

106

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018SECTION 3

Other Key Balance Sheet Items

3.1. Intangible Assets

Accounting policy

Goodwill

Goodwill acquired in a business combination is initially 
measured at cost. Cost is measured as the consideration and 
transaction cost of the business combination minus the net 
fair value of the acquired and identifiable assets, liabilities and 
contingent liabilities. Following initial recognition, goodwill is 
measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.

Refer to Note 3.1.1 for further details on impairment.

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial 
recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a 
business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition.

Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost 
less amortisation and any impairment losses. The useful lives 
of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite. 
Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised on a straight line 
basis over their useful life and tested for impairment whenever 
there is an indication that they may be impaired. Intangible 
assets with indefinite lives are tested for impairment annually. The 
amortisation period and method is reviewed at least annually. 

A summary of the policies applied to the Group’s intangible assets is as follows:

Goodwill

Useful life

Indefinite

Television licences

Indefinite

The West mastheads

Indefinite

Radio licences

Indefinite

Pacific mastheads

Indefinite

Amortisation method used

No amortisation

No amortisation

No amortisation

No amortisation

No amortisation

Trademark

Finite (10–15 years)

Amortised on a straight line basis over its useful life

Internally  
generated  
or acquired

Acquired

Acquired

Acquired

Acquired

Acquired

Acquired

Pacific licences

Finite (8–25 years)

Amortised on a straight line basis over the period of the licence

Acquired

Program copyrights

Finite  
(length of contract)

Amortised on a straight line basis over the period of the 
copyright

Computer software

Finite (3–5 years)

Amortised on a straight line basis over its useful life

Acquired

Internally 
generated  
and acquired

 Licences

Mastheads

Program 
copyrights

Computer 
software

 Goodwill 

 Trade-
mark 

REF

$’000

$’000 

$’000 

$’000

$’000

$’000

 Total 

$’000

Year ended 30 June 2018

Opening net book amount

 955,660 

 37,913 

Additions

Amortisation charge 

Acquisition of controlled entity

 [A] 

Impairment

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Closing net book amount

 955,660 

 37,913 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 25,354 

 19,923 

 (10,214)

 926 

 49 

1,019,902 

 – 

 – 

 36 

 (7)

 19,959 

 (10,221)

 30 

 3,568 

 1,500 

 5,098 

 (776)

 – 

 – 

 (776)

 34,317 

 4,494 

 1,578  1,033,962 

Comprised of:

Cost

 2,355,396 

 251,124 

 20,848 

 111,819 

 1,257,333 

 1,597 

 3,998,117 

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

 (1,399,736)

 (213,211)

 (20,848)

 (77,502)

 (1,252,839)

 (19)

(2,964,155)

107

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS3.1. Intangible Assets (continued)

 Licences

Mastheads

Program 
copyrights

Computer 
software

 Goodwill 

 Trade-
mark 

REF

$’000

$’000 

$’000 

$’000

$’000

$’000

 Total 

$’000

Year ended 24 June 2017

Opening net book amount

 1,388,048 

 97,542 

Additions

Amortisation charge 

Acquisition of controlled entity

Impairment

 [B] 

 [C] 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 20,834 

 (432,388)

 (80,463)

Closing net book amount

 955,660 

 37,913 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 37,385 

 29,946 

 41 

 1,552,962 

 11,938 

 (10,381)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 3,309 

 (13,588)

 (32,329)

 12 

 (4)

 – 

 – 

 11,950 

 (10,385)

 24,143 

 (558,768)

 25,354 

 926 

 49 

 1,019,902 

Comprised of:

Cost

 2,355,396 

 251,124 

 20,848 

 91,866 

 1,253,765 

 61 

 3,973,060 

Accumulated amortisation and impairment

 (1,399,736)

 (213,211)

 (20,848)

 (66,512)

 (1,252,839)

 (12)

 (2,953,158)

A.  Goodwill additions for the year relate to the acquisition of Great 

Southern Television Limited on 10th December 2017. Trademark 
acquired relates to the acquisition of The Mentor Platform Pty Limited 
on 19th January 2018.

B.  In 2017, masthead additions relate to acquired business assets from 

Nationwide News Pty Limited, a subsidiary of News Corporation. The 
business assets acquired include the Sunday Times masthead and 
its digital edition, the Perth Now Website. Goodwill additions relate to 
the acquisition of Slim Film & Television Pty Limited on 28th July 2016 
which had been subsequently impaired.

C.  In 2017, the Group assessed the recoverable amount for each of the 

Cash Generating Units (‘CGUs’) and groups of CGUs being Television, 
The West (Metro and Regional) and Pacific businesses. 

Refer to 3.1.1A for further details. 

3.1.1 Impairment of non-financial assets

Accounting policy
Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful 
life are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually 
for impairment, or more frequently if events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that they might be impaired. Assets 
are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately 
identifiable cash inflows which are largely independent of 
the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets (cash 
generating units or CGUs). Other assets are reviewed for 
impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An 
impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the 
asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The 
recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less 
costs to sell and its value in use.

The impairments were recognised as a result of changes to key 
assumptions in the Group’s cash flow forecasts at the time and includes: 

Television

 ƒ Medium and long term growth rates for traditional Free to Air 

television metro advertising market.

The West and Pacific

 ƒ Further declines in circulation and advertising revenue in print 

publishing businesses.

In calculating the value-in-use, the cash flows include 
projections of cash inflows and outflows from continuing use 
of the CGU’s assets. The cash flows are estimated for the 
assets of the CGU in their current condition and discounted to 
their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects 
the current market assessments of the risks specific to the 
CGU. The Group uses a 5 year discounted cash flow model 
based on board approved budgets and forecasts with a 
terminal growth rate for cash flows beyond the 5 year period.

Non-financial assets other than goodwill that suffered 
an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the 
impairment at each reporting date. Impairment losses are 
recognised in profit and loss unless the asset has previously 
been revalued, in which case the impairment is recognised as 
a reversal to the extent of that previous revaluation with any 
excess recognised in the profit and loss.

Key judgements, estimates and assumptions
Goodwill and intangibles with indefinite useful lives are tested annually to determine if they have suffered any impairment in 
accordance with the Group accounting policy. The recoverable amounts of cash-generating units have been determined based 
on value-in-use and fair value less costs to sell approaches. These calculations require the use of estimates and assumptions. 
Refer to 3.1.1B for details on assumptions used. 

108

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20183.1. Intangible Assets (continued)

3.1.1A Allocation of goodwill and indefinite life assets 

For the purpose of impairment testing, intangible assets with indefinite lives, including goodwill, are allocated to the Group’s operating 
segments which represent the lowest level within the Group at which the assets are monitored for internal management purposes. 

The table below outlines the allocation of goodwill and indefinite life assets:

 Goodwill 

 Licences, 
mastheads 

$’000

$’000

Total

$’000

 3,568 

 938,344 

 941,912 

 – 

 – 

 37,913 

 37,913 

 – 

 – 

 926 

 17,316 

 18,242 

 4,494 

 993,573 

 998,067 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 926 

 926 

 938,344 

 938,344 

 37,913 

 37,913 

 – 

 – 

 17,316 

 18,242 

 993,573 

 994,499 

The West (Metro and Regional) and Pacific 

 ƒ Publishing revenue has been assumed to decline in line  
with past performance and management’s expectations  
of market development.

 ƒ Digital revenue assumptions are in line with industry trends 
and management’s expectations of market development. 

 ƒ Expenses are expected to decrease based on committed cost 

reduction initiatives and volume assumptions.

(ii) Terminal growth factor 

A terminal growth factor that estimates the long term growth 
for that CGU is applied to the year 5 cash flows into perpetuity. 
These terminal growth rates do not exceed long term expected 
industry growth rates. The terminal growth factor for each CGU 
is detailed below.

(iii) Discount rate

The discount rate is an estimate of the pre-tax rate that reflects 
current market assessment of the time value of money and the 
risks specific to the CGU.

The pre-tax and post-tax discount rates applied to the CGU’s 
cash flows projections are detailed below.

Allocation of CGU Groups

Year ended 30 June 2018

Television

The West (Metro and Regional)

Pacific

Radio

Total goodwill and indefinite life assets

Year ended 24 June 2017

Television

The West (Metro and Regional)

Pacific

Radio

Total goodwill and indefinite life assets

3.1.1B Impairment review of cash generating units (‘CGUs’) 
including goodwill and indefinite life assets

In accordance with the Group’s accounting policies, the Group 
has evaluated whether the carrying amount of a CGU or group 
of CGUs exceeds its recoverable amount as at June 2018. The 
Group has determined the CGUs to be Television, The West 
(Metro and Regional) and Pacific businesses. The recoverable 
amount is determined using a value-in-use model.

In prior periods, Pacific mastheads, licences and goodwill have 
been fully written down. Management’s assessment has shown 
no indicators of impairment reversal in the current period.

Key components of the calculation and the basis for each CGU 
are detailed below:

(i) Cash flows

Year 1 cash flows are based upon budgets for the next  
12 months. Year 2 to 5 cash flows are based on the  
following assumptions:

Television 

 ƒ The advertising market growth rates are assumed to be 

consistent with industry market participant expectations  
and long-term industry growth rates.

 ƒ The Company’s share of Metro Free to Air advertising  

market is assumed to slightly increase due to the impact  
of the new Cricket agreement.

 ƒ Expenses are assumed to increase by CPI and known  

fixed increases for specific program rights. 

109

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3.1. Intangible Assets (continued)

Television

The West – Metro

The West – Regional

Terminal growth factor

Discount rate (pre-tax)

Discount rate (post-tax)

Jun-18

Jun-17

0.5%

0.0%

0.0%

0.5%

0.0%

0.0%

Jun-18

14.5%

13.4%

16.0%

Jun-17

13.9%

12.0%

15.5%

Jun-18

9.3%

10.5%

10.5%

Jun-17

9.3%

10.3%

10.3%

3.1.1C Impact of possible changes in key assumptions

The values assigned to the key assumptions represent management’s assessment of future performance in each CGU based on 
historical experience and internal and external sources. The estimated recoverable amounts are highly sensitive to key assumptions.

The recoverable amounts of Television and The West (Regional and Metro) are consistent with the carrying amounts. Therefore any 
adverse movements in key assumptions would lead to changes in carrying amount.

3.2. Property, Plant and Equipment

Accounting policy

Measurement of cost

All property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost 
less accumulated depreciation. Historical cost includes 
expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition  
of the items.

Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount 
or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when 

it is probable that future economic benefits associated with 
the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be 
measured reliably. The carrying amount of any component 
accounted for as a separate asset is derecognised when 
replaced. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to 
profit or loss during the reporting period in which they are 
incurred.

Depreciation

Asset class

Land

Buildings

Useful Life

Depreciation method used

Indefinite

Not depreciated

40 years

Straight line basis

Leasehold Improvements

Finite

Shorter of the life of the lease of each property or the life of 
the asset

Plant and equipment

Printing presses and publishing equipment

15 years

Other plant and equipment

3–10 years

Impairment of assets

Straight line basis to allocate their cost, net of their residual 
values, over their estimated useful lives

Straight line basis to allocate their cost, net of their residual 
values, over their estimated useful lives

The asset’s residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at the end of each reporting period. An 
asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its 
estimated recoverable amount. Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount 
and these are included in profit or loss.

110

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20183.2. Property, Plant and Equipment (continued)

Year ended 30 June 2018

Opening net book value

Additions

Disposals

Depreciation charge

Impairment

Change due to movement in FX rates

Closing net book amount

Comprised of:

Cost

Accumulated depreciation

Year ended 24 June 2017

Opening net book value

Additions

Disposals

Depreciation charge

Impairment

Change due to movement in FX rates

Closing net book amount

Comprised of:

Cost

Accumulated depreciation

 Freehold 
land and 
buildings

$’000

 Leasehold 
improvements

 Plant and 
equipment

$’000

$’000

 80,630 

 3,868 

 474 

 – 

 (3,068)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (178)

 – 

 – 

 75,061 

 10,139 

 (117)

 (21,783)

 (3,465)

 11 

Total

$’000

 159,559 

 10,613 

 (117)

 (25,029)

 (3,465)

 11 

 78,036 

 3,690 

 59,846 

 141,572 

 122,503 

 (44,467)

 19,249 

 (15,559)

 314,728 

 456,480 

 (254,882)

 (314,908)

 82,689 

 1,278 

 – 

 (3,056)

 (281)

 – 

 4,650 

 – 

 – 

 (251)

 (531)

 – 

 121,758 

 18,467 

 (183)

 (31,583)

 (33,353)

 (45)

 209,097 

 19,745 

 (183)

 (34,890)

 (34,165)

 (45)

 80,630 

 3,868 

 75,061 

 159,559 

 122,029 

 (41,399)

 19,249 

 (15,381)

 308,171 

 449,449 

 (233,110)

 (289,890)

Key judgements, estimates and assumptions
The estimation of useful life, residual value and depreciation methods require some judgement and are reviewed at least 
annually. An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is 
greater than its estimated recoverable amount. Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with 
carrying amount. These are included in the income statement.

111

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS3.3. Provisions

Accounting policy
Provisions are: 

 ƒ recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable  

that an outflow of resource will be required to settle the obligation and the amount can be estimated reliably.

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

Provision 

Description and measurement of provision

[A]

 Employee 
benefits

Provision for employee benefits includes annual leave, long service leave and short term incentives.

Short-term 
employee benefits

Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits and annual leave expected to  
be settled within 12 months after the end of the reporting period in which the employee renders  
the service. It is measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled.

Long-term 
employee benefits

Liability for long service leave which is not expected to be settled within 12 months after the end of  
the period. 

It is measured as the present value of expected future payments to be made in respect of services provided 
by employees up to the end of the reporting period.

Consideration is given to expected future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and 
periods of service. Expected future payments are discounted using market yields at the end of the reporting 
period on corporate bond rates with terms to maturity and currency that match, as closely as possible, the 
estimated future cash flows. 

A liability is recognised when there is an obligation to settle the liability and at least one of the following 
conditions is met:

 ƒ there are formal terms in the plan for determining the amount of the benefit; or
 ƒ past practice gives clear evidence of the amount of the obligation.

Short term 
incentives and 
bonus plans

[B]

 Redundancy and 
restructuring

Redundancy and restructuring provision is recognised when it is demonstrably committed to either 
terminating the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without possibility 
of withdrawal or providing termination benefits as a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary 
redundancy. It is payable when employment is terminated before the normal retirement date, or when an 
employee accepts voluntary redundancy in exchange for these benefits. 

Provision for onerous contracts represents contracts where, due to changes in market conditions, the 
expected benefit is lower than the cost for which the Group is currently committed under the terms of  
the contract. The minimum net obligation under the contract is provided for. The provision is calculated 
as the net of the estimated economic benefit and the estimate of the committed cost discounted to 
present values.

[C]

Onerous 
Contracts

[D]

Other

Libel Claims

Provision for libel claims against the Group in relation to published material.

Make Good 
Provision

Make good provision to restore the leased premises of its offices, studios and other premises to their 
original condition at the end of the respective lease terms. A provision has been recognised for the 
present value of the estimated expenditure required to remove any leasehold improvements. 

112

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 
 
 
 
 
 
3.3. Provisions (continued)

Employee 
Benefits 
[A]

Redundancy & 
Restructuring 
[B]

 Onerous 
Contracts 
[C] 

REF

Carrying amount at 24 June 2017

Amounts provided

Amounts utilised

Unwind of discount

$’000

 65,379 

 28,626 

 (32,789)

 – 

 Other 
[D] 

$’000

Total

$’000

$’000

$’000

 16,693 

 158,867 

 8,389 

 249,328 

 11,311 

 (8,973)

 – 

 – 

 225 

 40,162 

 (9,141)

 4,162 

 (1,117)

 (52,020)

 31 

 4,193 

Balance as at 30 June 2018

 61,216 

 19,031 

 153,888 

 7,528 

 241,663 

Represented by:

Current

Non-current

 55,321 

 5,895 

 61,216 

 19,031 

 30,113 

 12 

 104,477 

 – 

 123,775 

 7,516 

 137,186 

 19,031 

 153,888 

 7,528 

 241,663 

Key judgements, estimates and assumptions
The provision for restructuring and redundancy is in respect of amounts payable in connection with restructuring and 
redundancies, including termination benefits, on-costs, outplacement and consultancy services.

Termination benefits are payable when employment is terminated before the normal retirement date, or when an employee 
accepts voluntary redundancy in exchange for these benefits. The Group recognises termination benefits when it is 
demonstrably committed to either terminating the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without 
possibility of withdrawal or providing termination benefits as a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary redundancy.

Key assumptions made concerning future events are:

 ƒ The economic benefits expected to be received under the contracts is based on the historical benefits received on 

similar television programming and sports rights, adjusted to reflect the Group’s expectation of future growth rates for the 
advertising market; 

 ƒ The costs of fulfilling the contract are estimated with reference to contractual rates and historical incremental costs of similar 

programming assumed to increase by CPI; and

 ƒ The expected term of the legacy output deals is estimated based on current US market ratings performance and historical 

series life of similar programming.

113

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTSSECTION 4

Taxation

4.1 Taxes

Accounting policy

Current taxes

Current tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount 
expected to be recovered from or paid to taxation authorities at 
the tax rates and tax laws enacted or substantively enacted by 
the balance sheet date.

Deferred taxes

Deferred income tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable 
temporary differences. Deferred income tax assets are 
recognised for all deductible temporary differences, carried 
forward unused tax losses, to the extent it is probable that 
taxable profit will be available to utilise them.

The carrying amount of deferred income tax assets is 
reviewed at balance sheet date and reduced to the extent 
that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be 
available to utilise them.

The measurement of deferred tax reflects the tax consequences 
that would follow from the manner in which the Group expects, 
at the reporting date, to recover or settle the carrying amount of 
its assets and liabilities. In making this assessment, the Group 
considers the tax consequences of recovering assets and liabilities 
through sale, use and subsequent sale or through use and then 
abandonment or scrapping of the asset.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the 
tax rates that are expected to apply to the year when the asset 
is realised or the liability is settled, based on tax rates and tax 
laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the 
balance sheet date. 

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences at 
balance sheet date between accounting carrying amounts and 
the tax bases of assets and liabilities, other than for the following:

 ƒ Where they arise from the initial recognition of an asset or 
liability in a transaction that is not a business combination 
and at the time of the transaction affects neither the 
accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss. 

 ƒ Where taxable temporary differences relate to investments 
in subsidiaries, associates and interests in joint ventures:
i.  Deferred tax liabilities are not recognised if the timing 

of the reversal of the temporary differences can 
be controlled and it is probable that the temporary 
differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

ii.  Deferred tax assets are not recognised if it is not 

probable that the temporary differences will reverse 
in the foreseeable future and taxable profit will not be 
available to utilise the temporary differences. 

Deferred tax liabilities are also not recognised on recognition 
of goodwill.

Income taxes relating to items recognised directly in equity are 
recognised in equity and not in the income statement.

Offsetting deferred tax balances

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset 
only if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax 
assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred tax 
assets and liabilities relate to the same taxable entity and the 
same taxation authority.

Tax consolidation

The Company and its wholly owned Australian resident entities 
are part of a tax consolidated group. As a consequence, all 
members of the tax consolidated group are taxed as a single 
entity. The head entity within the tax consolidated group is 
Seven West Media Limited. 

Current tax expense/income, deferred tax liabilities and 
deferred tax assets arising from temporary differences of 
the members of the tax-consolidated group are recognised 
in the separate financial statements of the members of the 
tax-consolidated group using the group allocation approach 
by reference to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities 
in the separate financial statements of each entity and the tax 
values applying under tax consolidation.

Any current tax liabilities (or assets) and deferred tax 
assets arising from unused tax losses of the Company 
or its subsidiaries are ultimately assumed by the head 
entity in the tax consolidated group and are recognised as 
amounts payable/(receivable) to/(from) other entities in the 
tax consolidated group in conjunction with any tax funding 
arrangement amounts (refer below). 

Nature of tax funding arrangements

The head entity, in conjunction with other members of the 
tax-consolidated group, has entered into a tax funding 
arrangement which sets out the funding obligations of 
members of the tax-consolidated group in respect of tax 
amounts. The tax funding arrangements require payments to 
the head entity equal to the current tax liability assumed by 
the head entity resulting in a related party payable to the head 
entity equal in amount to the current tax liability assumed. This 
related party balance is at call. 

Contributions to fund the current tax liabilities are payable as 
per the tax funding arrangement and reflect the timing of the 
head entity’s obligation to make payments for tax liabilities to 
the relevant tax authorities.

Any difference between the amounts assumed and amounts 
receivable or payable under the tax funding agreement are 
recognised as a contribution to (or distribution from) wholly-
owned tax consolidated entities.

114

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20184.1. Taxes (continued)

Accounting policy continued

Goods and Services Tax (GST)

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

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 taxation 
authority, are presented as operating cash flows.

Tax expense recognised in profit or loss

Current year tax expense

Adjustments for current tax of prior periods

Current tax expense

Deferred tax (expense) benefit

Adjustment for deferred tax of prior periods

Total tax (expense) benefit

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 (33,261)

 (7,106)

 (40,367)

 (22,520)

 5,995 

 (44,137)

 (5,057)

 (49,194)

 63,056 

 7,104 

 (56,892)

 20,966 

Reconciliation of tax expense to prima facie tax payable

Profit (loss) before tax

 191,786 

 (765,962)

Tax at the Australian tax rate of 30% (2017: 30%)

 (57,536)

 229,789 

Tax effect of amounts which are not (deductible)/taxable in calculating taxable income:

Share of net profit of equity accounted investees

Deferred tax assets not recognised in relation to impairment of equity accounted investees

Deferred tax assets not recognised in relation to impairment of assets held for sale

Deferred tax assets not recognised in relation to impairment of assets

Other changes in recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities

Non-assessable income

Other non-assessable items

Adjustments for tax of prior periods

Tax (expense) benefit

Tax recognised in other comprehensive income

Cash flow hedges

Deferred tax asset not recognised

Deductible temporary differences

 8 

 – 

 (3,555)

 – 

 – 

 5,066 

 236 

 (1,111)

 135 

 (52,586)

 – 

 (164,595)

 1,501 

 4,063 

 611 

 2,048 

 (56,892)

 20,966 

 (1,047)

 (1,504)

 1,044,209 

 1,047,437 

Key judgements, estimates and assumptions
In determining the amount of current and deferred tax, the Group takes into account the impact of uncertain tax positions 
and whether additional taxes and interest may be due. This assessment relies on estimates and assumptions and may involve 
a series of judgements about future events. New information may become available that causes the Group to change its 
judgement regarding the adequacy of existing tax liabilities. Such changes to tax liabilities will impact tax expense in the period 
that such a determination is made.

115

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS4.2. Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities

 Balance 
24 June 
2017

 Recognised 
in profit  
or loss

 Recognised  
in other  
compre-
hensive 
income

Increase  
due to 
acquisition  
of controlled 
entity

Year ended 30 June 2018

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

The balance comprises temporary  

differences attributable to:

Trade and other receivables

Program rights and inventories

Equity accounted investees

Intangible assets

Property, plant and equipment

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred income 

Borrowings

Cash flow hedges

Transaction costs

Other

 7,393 

 (126,303)

 (440)

 3,945 

 19,370 

 19,143 

 78,194 

 5,957 

 (119)

 1,509 

 690 

 (686)

 (115)

 (1,458)

 (101)

 (735)

 (1,623)

 (3,304)

 (7,437)

 (2,288)

 44 

 – 

 (124)

 616 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (1,047)

 – 

 – 

Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets

 8,653 

 (16,525)

 (1,047)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 Balance 
25 June 
2016

 Recognised 
in profit  
or loss

 Recognised  
in other  
compre- 
hensive 
income

Increase  
due to 
acquisition  
of controlled 
entity

Year ended 24 June 2017

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

The balance comprises temporary  

differences attributable to:

Trade and other receivables

Program rights and inventories

Equity accounted investees

Intangible assets

Property, plant and equipment

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred income 

Borrowings

Cash flow hedges

Transaction costs

Other

 5,799 

 (137,180)

 (604)

 153 

 3,988 

 18,613 

 39,307 

 5,113 

 (1,274)

 3,013 

 458 

 736 

Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets

 (61,878)

 1,594 

 10,877 

 164 

 3,792 

 15,382 

 530 

 37,012 

 844 

 1,155 

 – 

 232 

 (1,422)

 70,160 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (1,504)

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 1,875 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 (1,504)

 1,875 

Balance 
30 June 
2018

$’000

 7,278 

 (127,761)

 (541)

 3,210 

 17,747 

 15,839 

 70,757 

 3,669 

 (75)

 462 

 566 

 (70)

 (8,919)

Balance 
24 June 
2017

$’000

 7,393 

 (126,303)

 (440)

 3,945 

 19,370 

 19,143 

 78,194 

 5,957 

 (119)

 1,509 

 690 

 (686)

 8,653 

116

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018SECTION 5

Capital Management

5.1. Borrowings

Accounting policy
Borrowings are initially recognised at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently measured at 
amortised cost. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption amount is recognised in 
profit or loss over the period of the borrowings. Any related accrued interest is included in trade payables and accruals.

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

Non-current

Bank loans – unsecured, net of unamortised refinancing costs

 776,647 

 795,159 

5.1A Financial arrangements 

As at 30 June 2018, the Group had access to unsecured  
bilateral revolving credit facilities to a maximum of $900,000,000 
(2017: $900,000,000). The amount of these facilities undrawn  
at reporting date was $120,000,000 (2017: $100,000,000).

In addition, the Group continues to have access to a $20,000,000 
(2017: $20,000,000) multi-option facility with Australia and New 
Zealand Banking Group Limited. As at reporting date, $8,000,000 
of this facility (2017: $8,900,000) was utilised for the provision of 
bank guarantees. 

The unsecured bank loans are net of $3,352,000 refinancing 
costs (2017: $4,840,000).

The facilities are subject to a weighted average interest rate of 
3.86% at 30 June 2018 (2017: 3.56%). 

As part of the bilateral facilities, the Group is subject to certain 
financial covenants measured on a six monthly basis. The Group 
has been in compliance with its financial covenant requirements  
to date including the period ending 30 June 2018.

Fair value 

The carrying amount and fair value of Group borrowings  
at the end of the financial year was $776,647,000  
(2017: $795,159,000).

Risk exposures

Information about the Group’s exposure to interest rate changes 
is provided in note 5.5.

117

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
5.2. Share Capital

Accounting policy
Ordinary shares are classified as equity.

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

Ordinary shares are fully-paid and have no par value. They carry one vote per share and the right to dividends. They bear no 
special terms or conditions affecting income or capital entitlements of the shareholders.

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

1,508,034,368 (2017: 1,508,034,368) Ordinary shares fully paid (refer note 5.2A)

 3,393,546 

 3,393,546 

5.2A Movements in ordinary share capital

2018

Shares

2017

Shares

2018

Shares

2017

Shares

Ordinary shares

Balance at the beginning of the year

 1,508,034,368 

 1,507,137,418 

 3,393,546 

 3,393,145 

Movements during the year:

Shares sold pursuant to cancellation of loan plan

Movement in ordinary shares

Balance at the end of the year

 – 

 – 

 896,950 

 896,950 

 – 

 – 

 401 

 401 

 1,508,034,368 

1,508,034,368 

 3,393,546 

 3,393,546 

Ordinary shares entitle the holder to participate in dividends and the proceeds on winding up the company in proportion to the 
number of and amounts paid on the shares held. On a show of hands every holder of ordinary shares present at a meeting in person 
or by proxy, is entitled to one vote, and upon a poll each share is entitled to one vote.

118

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 
5.3. Dividends

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

5.3A Dividends paid during the financial year

Final ordinary dividend for the year ended 24 June 2017 of 2 cents per share  

(25 June 2016: 4 cents), fully franked based on tax paid at 30%, paid on 18 October 2017  
(25 June 2016: 7 October 2016)

In December 2017 (FY18), no interim dividend has been declared.

In December 2016 (FY17), the directors declared an interim dividend of 2 cents per ordinary share, 

fully franked based on tax paid at the rate of 30%. This was paid on 13 April 2017.

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 30,161 

 60,283 

 – 

 30,161 

 30,161 

 90,444 

5.3B Dividends not recognised at year end

In 2018, no final dividend has been declared. In 2017, the directors declared a final dividend  

of 2 cents per ordinary shares, fully franked based on tax paid at the rate of 30%.  
The liability not recognised for each year end: 

 – 

30,161

5.3C Franked dividends

Future franked dividends declared will be franked out of existing franking credits or out of franking credits arising from the receipt of 
franked dividends and the payment of tax in the year ending 30 June 2018.

Franking credits available for subsequent financial years based on a tax rate of 30% (2017: 30%)

 19,271 

 20,945 

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

a. 
b. 
c. 

franking credits that will arise from the payment of the current tax liability or receivable;
franking debits that will arise from the payment of dividends recognised as a liability at the reporting date; and
franking credits that will arise from the receipt of dividends recognised as receivables at the reporting date.

5.4. Share-Based Payments

Accounting policy
Employees of the Group receive remuneration in the form of 
share based payments, whereby employees render services 
as consideration for equity instruments.

Share-based compensation benefits are provided to 
executives and employees in accordance with the Company’s 
share purchase and loan plans and employment agreements.

Equity-settled transactions

The fair value of the rights granted is recognised as an 
employee benefit expense with a corresponding increase in 
equity. The total amount to be expensed is determined by 
reference to the fair value of the rights granted, which includes 
any market performance conditions but excludes the impact 

of any service and non-market performance vesting conditions 
and the impact of any non-vesting conditions.

Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions 
about the number of rights that are expected to vest. The total 
expense is recognised over the vesting period, which is the 
period over which all of the specified vesting conditions are 
to be satisfied. At the end of each period, the entity revises 
its estimate of the number of rights that are expected to vest 
based on the non-market vesting conditions.

It recognises the impact of the revision to original estimates, if 
any, in profit or loss, with a corresponding adjustment to equity.

119

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTSGrant date

Award type

Vesting Conditions

2018 Long 

Term Incentive Plan

1 February 2018

Performance Rights

Relative TSR and  
KPI outcomes

Performance period

1 July 2017 to 30 June 2020

Vesting Date

19 August 2020

Share price at grant date

 $0.57 

Number of rights granted

4,045,842 

Fair value at grant date

 $0.16 

Volatility – Seven West Media

35%

Volatility – ASX 200  
Consumer Discretionary 
Accumulation Index 

Correlation between  
Seven West Media and ASX 
200 Consumer Discretionary 
Accumulation Index

Risk free interest rate

Dividend yield

13%

40%

2.05%

6.8%

Valuation methodology

Monte-Carlo simulation

5.4. Share-Based Payments (continued)

5.4A Performance and share rights granted as 
compensation 

The total expense recognised for share-based payments for  
all plans during the financial year for the Group was $194,443 
(2017: -$202,034).

The accounting value of share-based payments may be negative 
where an executive’s share-based expense includes cumulative 
adjustments for changes in non-market vesting conditions.

Long Term Incentive Plans 

At 30 June 2018, performance rights that remain outstanding  
are from 2016 and 2018 Long Term Incentive Plans. The 2016 
Long Term Incentive Plan will expire on 1 September 2018.

The 2018 long term incentive plan was established in the  
period and entitles key management personnel to performance 
rights. Holders of vested rights are entitled to fully paid ordinary 
shares in the Company.

A total of 4,045,842 performance rights were granted on  
1 February 2018 and will be awarded when the performance 
conditions are met. The performance period commenced on  
1 July 2017 and ends on 30 June 2020. The performance rights 
are subject to a total shareholder return (TSR) hurdle as well as 
an individual performance condition.

Performance rights do not carry any dividend or voting rights 
prior to vesting and are all equity settled. Vesting of the rights are 
subject to the condition that the executive remains employed by 
the Company at the vesting date. None of the performance rights 
have vested however 1,328,845 were forfeited during the year.

Short Term Incentive Plans 

The Group granted a 2018 short term incentive plan that entitles 
key management personnel to shares based on 50 per cent of 
the Financial Year’s STI awards.

The restricted shares are subject to the condition that the 
executive remains employed by the Company at the vesting date 
(as detailed below).

An estimated 509,877 (2017: 271,333) restricted shares will be 
granted on or about 1 September 2018 (2017: 1 October 2017). 
The estimated number and fair value of the restricted shares as at 
30 June 2018 is based on 50 per cent of the STI pool awarded. 
The performance period commenced on 24 June 2017 and ends 
on 29 June 2019 (2017: 26 June 2016 and ends on 30 June 2018).

Key judgements, estimates and assumptions
The Group measures the cost of equity transactions with employees by reference to the fair value of equity instruments at the 
date at which they are granted. The fair value is determined by an external valuer using a valuation model. The most appropriate 
valuation model used is dependent on the terms and conditions of the grant. The estimate also requires determination of the 
most appropriate inputs into the valuation model including the expected life of the share options, volatility and dividend yield and 
making assumptions about them.

120

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20185.5. Capital and Financial Risk Management 

The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: 
market risk (including interest rate risk), credit risk, capital risk 
and liquidity risk. 

The Group’s overall risk management program focuses  
on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to  
minimise potential adverse effects on the financial performance 
of the Group. 

The Group uses derivative financial instruments (interest rate 
swaps and collars) to hedge certain interest rate risk exposures 
and forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge certain foreign 
exchange risk exposures. Derivatives are exclusively used 
for hedging purposes, i.e. not as trading or other speculative 
instruments. The Group uses different methods to measure 
different types of risk to which it is exposed. These methods 
include sensitivity analysis in the case of interest rate and foreign 
exchange and aging analysis for credit risk.

5.5A Market risk

Market risk is defined as possible changes in market prices, 
such as foreign exchange rates and interest rates that will 
affect the fair value or future cash flows of the Group’s financial 
instruments. The key components of market risks are:

(i)  

Price risk 

Price risk refers to the risk of a decline in the value of a security or 
a portfolio. The Group is not exposed to significant price risk. 

(ii)  

Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk refers to the risks that the value of a financial 
instrument or its associated cash flows will fluctuate in response 
to changes in market interest rates. The Group is party to 
derivative financial instruments in the normal course of business 
in order to hedge exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. 

The Group’s main interest rate risk arises from long-term 
borrowings. Borrowings sourced at variable rates expose the 
Group to cash flow interest rate risk. The Group has mitigated 
this interest rate risk by entering into derivative transactions, 
including interest rate swaps and collars.  

As at the end of the reporting period the Group had the following instruments:

Variable rate instruments

Cash at bank, on hand and at call

Weighted average interest rate

External borrowing facilities

Weighted average interest rate

Net debt (excluding unamortised refinancing costs)

Interest Rate Swaps

Total Hedged

% of net debt hedged

Weighted average interest rate

Expiry date

Interest Rate Collars

Total Hedged

% of net debt hedged

Interest rate cap

Interest rate floor

Expiry date

2018

$’000

 142,163 

2.14%

 780,000 

3.86%

 637,837 

2017

$’000

 69,490 

2.06%

 800,000 

3.56%

 730,510 

 200,000 

 200,000 

31%

2.78%

27%

2.78%

June 2021

June 2021

 150,000 

24%

2.39%

1.85%

 June 19 – June 21 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

Total percentage of net debt hedged

Net exposure to cash flow interest rate risk

55%

 287,837 

27%

 530,510 

The changes in fair value of cash flow hedges during the year amounts to a pre-tax increase in equity of $3,490,000  
(2017: $5,011,000).

There are no receivables on derivatives at balance date and the Group’s current receivables generally do not bear interest. 

There are no fixed rate instruments in place at 30 June 2018. 

121

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Group sensitivity 

Based on the Group’s outstanding floating rate borrowings and interest rate swaps at 30 June 2018, a change in interest rates of +/-
1% per annum with all other variables remaining constant would impact equity and after tax profit by the amounts shown below.

This analysis assumes that all other variables remain constant. 

Net Profit/(Loss)

Reserves

Net Equity

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

If interest rates were 1% higher with all other variables held constant:

(Decrease)/increase

 (3,010)

 (4,200)

 4,879 

 4,874 

 1,869 

 674 

If interest rates were 1% lower with all other variables held constant:

Increase/(decrease)

 3,010 

 4,200 

 (5,068)

 (5,106)

 (2,058)

 (906)

(iii)   Foreign exchange risk

Foreign exchange risk refers to the risk that the value of a financial instrument or its associated cash flows will fluctuate due to 
changes in foreign currency rates. 

The Group has transactional currency risk; such exposure arises from sales or purchases by an operating unit in currencies other 
than the unit’s measurement currency. It is the Group’s policy not to enter into forward contracts until a firm commitment is in place. 
The terms of the forward currency contracts have been negotiated to match the terms of the commitments. The foreign currency 
contracts are being used to reduce the exposure to the foreign exchange risk.

As at the end of the reporting period, the Group had the following exposure to foreign exchange risk:

Receivables:

Foreign exchange receivables and forward contracts

 4,875 

 3,710 

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

Payables:

Foreign exchange payables and forward contracts

Net exposure

Group sensitivity 

Based on the Group’s financial instruments held at 30 June 
2018, had the Australian dollar weakened/strengthened by 10% 
against the US dollar, Euro, UK pound and New Zealand dollar, 
with all other variables held constant, the Group’s equity and 
after tax profit for the year would not have changed significantly 
(2017: no significant impact). The analysis was performed on the 
same basis as 2017 and ignores any impact of forecasted sales 
and purchases.

5.5B Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer 
or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its 
contractual obligations, and arises principally from credit 
exposures to customers, cash and cash equivalents and 
derivative financial instruments.

Credit risk is managed on a Group basis. The Group limits its 
exposure in relation to cash balances and derivative financial 
instruments by only dealing with well-established financial 
institutions of high quality credit standing. For other customers, 
risk control assesses the credit quality, taking into account 
financial position, past experience and other factors. The 
utilisation of credit limits are regularly monitored.

 (4,754)

 121 

 (3,610)

 100 

5.5C Liquidity risk 

Liquidity risk refers to the risk that the Group is unable to meet its 
financial commitments as and when they fall due.

The Group’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far 
as possible, that it will always have sufficient liquidity to meet its 
liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed conditions, 
without incurring unacceptable losses or risking damage to the 
Group’s reputation.

Prudent liquidity risk management implies maintaining sufficient 
cash and the availability of funding through an adequate amount 
of committed credit facilities. The Group manages liquidity risk 
by continuously monitoring forecast and actual cash flow and 
monitoring the Group’s liquidity reserve on the basis of these 
cash flow forecasts. In addition, the Group had access to total 
debt funding under its bilateral facilities equal to $900,000,000  
of which only $780,000,000 is drawn at reporting date. 

122

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20185.5. Capital and Financial Risk Management (continued)

Maturities of financial liabilities 

The table analyses the Group’s financial liabilities including interest to maturity into relevant groupings based on their contractual 
maturities.

The amounts disclosed in the table are the contractual undiscounted principal and interest cash flows and therefore may not agree 
with the carrying amounts in the statement of financial position. For interest rate swaps the cash flows have been estimated using 
forward interest rates applicable at the end of the reporting period.

At 30 June 2018

Non-derivative financial liabilities

Trade and other payables

Unsecured loans

Total non-derivatives

Derivative financial liabilities

Less than 
one year

Between 
1 and 5 years

 Total 
contractual 
cash flows 

$’000

$’000

$’000

Carrying 
amount – 
liabilities

$’000

 280,217 

 30,123 

 26,504 

 819,118 

 306,721 

 849,241 

 306,721 

 776,647 

 310,340 

 845,622 

 1,155,962 

 1,083,368 

Net settled interest rate swaps and collar

 1,340 

 2,632 

 3,972 

 3,441 

Gross settled forward foreign exchange contracts –  
cash flow hedges:

 ƒ (inflow)

 ƒ outflow

Total derivatives

 (4,875)

 4,754 

 1,219 

 – 

 – 

 2,632 

 (4,875)

 4,754 

 3,851 

 (130)

 – 

 3,311 

Total financial liabilities

 311,559 

 848,254 

 1,159,813 

 1,086,679 

At 24 June 2017

Non-derivative financial liabilities

Trade and other payables

Unsecured loans

Total non-derivatives

Derivative financial liabilities

Less than 
one year

Between 
1 and 5 years

 Total 
contractual 
cash flows 

$’000

$’000

$’000

Carrying 
amount – 
liabilities

$’000

 279,444 

 18,341 

 28,954 

 865,478 

 297,785 

 894,432 

 297,785 

 795,159 

 308,398 

 803,819 

 1,192,217 

 1,092,944 

Net settled interest rate swaps and collar

 2,165 

 6,314 

 8,479 

 5,872 

Gross settled forward foreign exchange contracts –  
cash flow hedges:

 ƒ (inflow)

 ƒ outflow

Total derivatives

 (3,710)

 3,610 

 2,065 

 – 

 – 

 6,314 

 (3,710)

 3,610 

 8,379 

 (116)

 – 

 5,756 

Total financial liabilities

 310,463 

 810,133 

 1,200,596 

 1,098,700 

123

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS5.5. Capital and Financial Risk Management (continued)

5.5D Fair value measurement 

The fair value of financial assets and liabilities must be estimated 
for recognition and measurement or for disclosure purposes. 

Investments of some equity accounted investees and assets 
helds for sale are measured at fair value (level 3) refer note 6.1 
and note 7.4.

5.5E Capital Management

The Group’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base so as to 
maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain 
future development of the business.

Capital consists of ordinary shares and retained earnings of the 
Group. The Board of directors monitors the return on capital as 
well as the level of dividends to ordinary shareholders.

In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group 
may adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, return 
capital to shareholders, issue new shares or sell assets to reduce 
debt.

The carrying amounts of financial instruments disclosed in the 
statement of financial position approximate to their fair values.

AASB 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures requires disclosure 
of fair value measurements by level of the following fair value 
measurement hierarchy:

a.  quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical 

b. 

c. 

assets or liabilities (level 1)  
inputs other than quoted prices included within level 1 that 
are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (as 
prices) or indirectly (derived from prices) (level 2), and
inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on 
observable market data (unobservable inputs) (level 3).

Assets or liabilities measured and recognised at fair value 
through profit and loss are the assets/liabilities recognised in 
relation to interest rate cash flow hedges and foreign exchange 
cash flow hedges amounting to $3,311,000 (2017: $5,756,000). 
The fair values of these derivatives (classified as level 2 in the fair 
value measurement hierarchy) are measured with reference to 
forward interest rates and exchange rates and the present value 
of the estimated future cash flows. 

The Group’s net debt to adjusted equity ratio at the reporting date was as follows: 

Total unsecured bank facility

Less: unamortised refinancing costs

Less: cash and cash equivalents

Net Debt

Total Equity

Add back: Amounts accumulated in equity relating to cash flow hedges

Adjusted equity

Net debt to adjusted equity ratio

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 780,000 

 800,000 

 (3,352)

 (4,840)

 (142,163)

 (69,490)

 634,485 

 725,670 

 528,287 

 418,909 

 1,080 

 3,523 

 529,367 

 422,432 

120%

172%

124

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018 
SECTION 6

Group Structure

6.1. Equity Accounted Investees

Non-current

Investments in associates and jointly controlled entities

 3,445 

 51,362 

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

Accounting policy
An associate is an entity, other than a subsidiary, over which 
the Group has significant influence but not control. Significant 
influence is the power to participate in the financial and 
operating decisions of the entity with shareholding generally 
being between 20 per cent and 50 per cent of the voting 
rights. 

A jointly controlled entity is an entity in which the Group holds 
an interest under a contractual arrangement where the Group 
and one or more other parties undertake an economic activity 
that is subject to joint control.

Measurement

Interests in associates and jointly controlled entities are 
accounted for using the equity method. They are initially 
recognised at cost plus the investor’s share of retained post-
acquisition profits, impairment and other changes in net assets, 
until significant influence or joint control ceases.

Dividends received or receivable from equity accounted 
investees are recognised in the consolidated financial 
statements as a reduction in the carrying amount of the 
investment.

When the Group’s share of losses equals or exceeds its 
interest in an equity accounted investee, including any 
other unsecured long-term receivables, the Group does not 
recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or 
made payments on behalf of the investee.

Unrealised gains arising from transactions with equity 
accounted investees are eliminated against the investment to 
the extent of the Group’s interest in the investee. Unrealised 
losses are eliminated in the same way as unrealised gains, but 
only to the extent that there is no evidence of impairment.

Impairment

Equity accounted investees are tested for impairment annually 
or when indicators of impairments exist.

125

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS6.1. Equity Accounted Investees (continued)

Name of entity

REF

Principal activities

Airline Ratings Pty Limited

[A]

Ratings service provider 

7Beyond Media Rights Limited

Television production 

Reporting  
date

30 June

30 June

Bulls N' Bears Holdings Pty Ltd

[B]

Public company news provider 

30 June

Community Newspaper Group Limited

Newspaper publishing 

Citizen journalism 

[C]

[D]

Fantasy sports platform 

Online social network 

30 June

30 June

30 June

30 June

Crowdspark Limited  
(Formerly Newzulu Limited)

Draftstars Pty Ltd

Epicfrog Pty Limited (trading as Nabo)

Evolink Pty Ltd  
(trading as Muzz Buzz Express)

Ownership interest

2018

%

 – 

 50.0 

 – 

 49.9 

2017

%

 50.0 

 50.0 

 50.0 

 49.9 

 21.9 

 21.9 

 – 

 23.5 

 33.3 

 29.6 

[E]

Drive-through coffee franchise 

30 June

 – 

 50.0 

Health Engine Pty Limited

Online health directory 

30 June

 16.3 

 16.3 

New You Group Pty Limited  
(trading as Kochie Money Makeover)

Provider of general financial advice  30 June

 50.0 

 50.0 

Oscar Winter Pty Limited

[F]

Online retail jewellery business 

30 June

Oztam Pty Limited

Starts at 60 Pty Limited

TX Australia Pty Limited

Yahoo Australia & New Zealand  
(Holdings) Pty Limited

Ratings service provider 

31 December

Online social network for seniors 

30 June

Transmitter facilities provider 

30 June

 33.3 

 33.3 

 35.3 

 33.3 

 33.3 

 33.3 

 35.3 

 33.3 

[G]

Internet content provider 

31 December

 50.0 

 50.0 

All of above entities are incorporated in Australia apart from  
7Beyond Media Rights Limited which is incorporated in Ireland.

E.  Investment in Evolink Pty Ltd Pty Ltd was disposed of on 24th 

September 2017.

A.  Investment in Airline Ratings Pty Ltd was disposed of on  

F.  Oscar Winter Pty Limited ceased trading on 11th May 2018. 

22nd February 2018.

B.  Investment in Bulls N’ Bears Holdings Pty Ltd was disposed  

of on 30th June 2017.

C.  Investment in Draftstars Pty Ltd was disposed of on 9th January 2018.

D.  Following a capital raising by Epicfrog Pty Limited, the shareholding in 

this investment was diluted from 29.6% to 23.5%.

6.1A Significant Equity Accounted Investees

Yahoo Australia and New Zealand (Holdings) Pty Limited

Shareholders are in the process of dissolving the company in  
the near future.

G.  Investment in Yahoo!7 Pty Ltd has been reclassified as Asset Held for 
Sale following announcement by the Group to sell its 50% stake to 
Oath, a subsidiary of Verizon Inc. Refer note 7.4 for detail.

Investment

A jointly controlled entity with Oath Inc. of which the Group has a 50% interest shareholding. 

Yahoo7 is a web portal providing e-mail, online news, lifestyle content as well as weather, travel 
and retail comparison services.

Principal place of business/ 
Country of incorporation

Australia

Accounting treatment

Equity method up to the date of announcement of sale on 28 March 2018. Refer note 7.4 for detail.

The following is summarised financial information of the investment, and reconciliation with the carrying amount of the investment in 
the consolidated financial statements. All amounts shown are 100% unless otherwise stated. There is no other comprehensive income 
recognised in the below numbers. 

126

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20186.1. Equity Accounted Investees (continued)

Profit is presented as at March 2018 and Balance Sheet is presented as at June 2018. 

Revenue

Net profit for the year (continuing operations)

Group's 50% share of profit for the year

REF

[A]

2018

$’000

 45,614 

 1,977 

 988 

A.  Includes depreciation and amortisation of $4,928,000 (2017: $4,233,000) and income tax expense of $620,000 (2017: $4,889,000).  

Interest expense and income for both reporting periods is not significant. 

Current assets 

Non-current assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Net assets

[B]

 32,430 

 71,082 

 (9,352)

 (2,480)

 91,680 

B.  Includes cash and cash equivalents of $17,634,000 (2017: $19,292,000) 

There are no current or non-current financial liabilities (excluding trade and other payables and provisions).

2017

$’000

 77,138 

 10,591 

 5,295 

 36,045 

 76,247 

 (16,792)

 (2,760)

 75,948 

Movements in carrying amount of the investment in Yahoo7

Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

Impairment of equity accounted investees (refer note 1.4)

Share of profit of investees after tax

Dividends received

Carrying amount of the investment before reclassification to Asset Held for Sale

Investment transferred to Asset Held for Sale (refer note 7.4)

Carrying amount of the investment at the end of the financial year

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 46,379 

 200,779 

 – 

 (154,695)

 988 

 – 

 47,367 

 (47,367)

 5,295 

 (5,000)

 46,379 

 – 

 – 

 46,379 

Prior year impairment

Following a formal impairment assessment during 2017, the  
Group recorded a total impairment charge of $154.7 million  
($75.5 million in December 2016 and $79.2 million in June 2017).  
The impairment charge was a result of the following factors:

The recoverable amount was calculated using a 5 year cash flow 
value-in-use model based on budgets and forecasts using a 
pre-tax discount rate of 11.6% and a terminal value growth rate of 
3.0%.

 ƒ Change in contractual arrangements between Seven and 
Yahoo7 relating to long form catch up television service 
following Verizon Inc’s acquisition of Yahoo Inc.

 ƒ Acceleration in the decline of the premium display market.

127

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
6.1. Equity Accounted Investees (continued)

6.1B Other Equity Accounted Investees

Below is the summarised financial information for the Group’s remaining associates and jointly controlled investments.

Net loss for the year (continuing operations)

Group's share of profit (loss) for the year

REF

[A]

2018

$’000

 (14,629)

 716 

A.  Share of profit (loss) is based on ownership percentage ranging from 16.3% to 50% for each equity accounted investee. 

Movements in carrying amount of other equity accounted investees

Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

Impairment of equity accounted investees (refer note 1.4)

Share of profit (loss) of investees after tax

Dividends received

Acquisitions and other movements

Carrying amount of the investments at the end of the financial year

2018

$’000

 4,983 

 (1,254)

 716 

 (1,000)

 – 

 3,445 

2017

$’000

 (15,229)

 (4,846)

2017

$’000

 15,231 

 (21,340)

 (4,846)

 (1,280)

 17,218 

 4,983 

The carrying amount of each investment is based on the fair value of investments at acquisition date adjusted for equity accounted 
profits, dividends, impairments and any other movement since acquisition.

The Group has not recognised losses in relation to its interests in equity accounted investees as the Group has no obligation in 
respect of these losses.

6.2. Investments in Controlled Entities

Accounting policy
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets 
and liabilities of all subsidiaries of Seven West Media Limited 
as at 30 June 2018 and the results of all subsidiaries for 
the year then ended. Seven West Media Limited and its 
subsidiaries together are referred to in this financial report as 
the “Group.”

The consolidated entity controls an entity when it 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 over the entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from 
the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are 
de-consolidated from the date that control ceases. 

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains 
on transactions between Group companies 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 Group.

Non-controlling interests in the results and equity of 
subsidiaries are shown separately in the consolidated income 
statement, statement of comprehensive income, statement 
of changes in equity and statement of financial position 
respectively.

128

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20186.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets, liabilities and results of the following subsidiaries in accordance with the 
accounting policy described above.

Ownership interest

2018

2017

Name of entity

7Wonder Productions Limited

Albany Advertiser Pty Ltd

Australian National Television Pty Limited

Australian Regional Broadcasters Pty Ltd

Australian Television International Pty Limited

Australian Television Network Limited

Bluegem Holdings Pty Ltd (Trading as TriEvents)

Channel Seven Adelaide Pty Limited

Channel Seven Brisbane Pty Limited

Channel Seven Melbourne Pty Limited

Channel Seven Perth Pty Limited

Channel Seven Queensland Pty Limited

Channel Seven Sydney Pty Limited

Coast Australia Production Pty Limited

Cobbittee Publications Pty Limited

Colorpress Australia Pty Ltd

ColourPress Pty Ltd

ComsNet Pty Ltd

Dansted and McCabe Holdings Pty Ltd

Dodds Street Properties Pty Limited

Endurance Media Limited

Faxcast Australia Pty Limited

Geraldton FM Pty Ltd

Geraldton Newspapers Pty Ltd

Great Northern Broadcasters Pty Ltd

Great Southern Film and Television Pty Limited

Great Southern Television Limited

Harlesden Investments Pty Ltd

Herdsman Print Centre Pty Ltd

Herdspress Leasing Pty Ltd

Hocking & Co. Pty Ltd

Hybrid Television Services (ANZ) Pty Limited

Impact Merchandising Pty Limited

Jupelly Pty Limited

Kenjins Pty Limited

Media Beach Pte. Limited

North West Radio Pty Ltd

Notes

Country of incorporation

United Kingdom

[A]

[C]

[A]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[C]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[I]

[E]

[C]

[C]

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

New Zealand

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

New Zealand

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Singapore

[A]

Australia

%

 – 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 80 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 70 

 70 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 50 

 100 

%

 50 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 80 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 – 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 – 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 – 

 – 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 50 

 100 

129

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS6.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

Name of entity

Pacific MM Pty Limited

Pacific Magazines Pty Limited

Pacific Magazines Trust

Notes

Country of incorporation

[C]

[C]

Australia

Australia

Australia

Pacific Magazines (No. 2) Pty Limited

[C]

Australia

Pacific Magazines NZ Limited

Pacific Magazines NZ Merchant Company Limited

New Zealand

New Zealand

Pacific Magazines (PP) Pty Ltd

Pacific Magazines (PP) Holdings Pty Ltd

Pacific Magazines (WHO) Pty Ltd

Quokka Press Pty Ltd

Quokka West Pty Ltd

Red Music Publishing Pty Limited

Red Publishing Pty Limited

Redwave Media Pty Ltd

Riverlaw Holdings Pty Limited

Seven DS Holdings Pty Ltd

Seven Facilities Pty Ltd

Seven Magazines Pty Limited

Seven Network (Operations) Limited

Seven Network Programming Pty Limited

Seven Productions NZ Limited

Seven Regional Operations Pty Limited

Seven Rights Pty Ltd

Seven Satellite Operations Pty Limited

Seven Satellite Pty Limited

Seven Studios Distribution Pty Ltd

Seven Studios Holdings Pty Ltd

Seven Studios Pty Limited

Seven Television Australia Limited

Seven West Media Investments Pty Limited

Slim Film & TV Limited

SMG H1 Pty Limited

SMG H2 Pty Limited

SWM Finance Pty Limited

SWM Media Holdings Pty Ltd

SMG H4 Pty Limited

SMG H5 Pty Limited

South West Printing and Publishing Company Ltd

Southdown Publications Pty Limited

Spirit Radio Network Pty Ltd

[C]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[D]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[I]

[H]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[C]

[J]

[G]

[C]

[J]

[I]

[F]

[C]

[C]

[B]

[B]

[B]

[I]

[C]

[C]

[A]

[C]

[A]

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

New Zealand

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

United Kingdom

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Ownership interest

2018

%

2017

%

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 25 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 25 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

130

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20186.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

Name of entity

Notes

Country of incorporation

Sunshine Broadcasting Network Limited

[C]

Australia

The Mentor Platform Pty Limited

The Pacific Plus Company Pty Limited

W.A. Broadcasters Pty Ltd

WAN Cinemas Pty Limited

West Australian Entertainment Pty Ltd

West Australian Newspapers Limited

West Central Seven Limited 

Western Mail Pty Ltd

Western Mail Operations Pty Ltd

Westroyal Pty Ltd

Wide Bay – Burnett Television Limited

Zangerside Pty Limited

Zed Holdings Pty Limited

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

[C]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[C]

[A]

[A]

[A]

[C]

[C]

[C]

Ownership interest

2018

%

 100 

 50 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

2017

%

 100 

 – 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

 100 

The class of all shares is ordinary and the entities entered into the Deed of Cross Guarantee with Seven West Media Limited under ASIC 
Corporations (wholly-owned companies) instrument 2016/785 by Assumption Deed on 8 April 2004. The dates below show when the 
deed was amended:  

A.  Prior to 30 June 2009.

B.  20 June 2011.

C.  26 June 2012.

D.  18 April 2013.

E.  30 September 2013.

F.  1 May 2015.

G.  16 June 2015.

H.  31 March 2016.

I.  1 December 2016.

J.  12 May 2017. 

Pursuant to ASIC Corporations (wholly-owned companies) instrument 2016/785, certain wholly-owned subsidiaries, as noted above, 
are relieved from the Corporations Act 2001 requirements for preparation, audit and lodgement of financial reports and directors’ 
reports.

It is a condition of the Class Order that the ‘Holding Entity’ and each of the wholly-owned subsidiaries enter into a Deed of Cross 
Guarantee under which each company guarantees the debts of the others.

Seven West Media Limited and its subsidiaries represent a ‘Closed Group’ for the purposes of the Seven West Media Limited Class 
Order, and as there are no other parties to its Deed of Cross Guarantee that are controlled by Seven West Media Limited, they also 
represent the ‘Extended Closed Group.’ 

131

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
 
 
6.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

The consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income for the year ended 30 June 2018 of the Seven West 
Media Limited Closed Group is presented below according to the Class Order:

Statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income

Revenue

Other income

Revenue and other income

Expenses

Impairment of intangible assets

Impairment of investments and other assets

Write down of assets held for sale

Redundancy and restructure costs 

Onerous contracts

Net gain on sale of other assets

Net gain (loss) on disposal of investments and controlled entities

Share of net profit of equity accounted investees

Profit (loss) before net finance costs and tax

Finance costs

Finance income

Profit (loss) before tax

Tax (expense) benefit

Profit (loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income (expense)

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:

Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash flow hedges

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations

Tax relating to items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss

Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax

Total comprehensive income (expense) for the year

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 1,599,165 

 1,653,542 

 474 

 5,415 

 1,599,639 

 1,658,957 

 (1,383,191)

 (1,390,351)

 – 

 (558,768)

 (1,253)

 (276,435)

 (11,868)

 (11,311)

 – 

 (6,881)

 – 

 (139,582)

 8,224 

 13,520 

 1,704 

 – 

 (7,138)

 449 

 215,464 

 (719,749)

 (36,912)

 (40,367)

 1,444 

 1,488 

 179,996 

 (758,628)

 (56,626)

 19,488 

 123,370 

 (739,140)

 3,490 

 434 

 (1,047)

 2,877 

 5,011 

 (810)

 (1,504)

 2,697 

 126,247 

 (736,443)

132

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20186.2. Investments in Controlled Entities (continued)

The consolidated statement of financial position for the year ended 30 June 2018 of the Seven West Media Limited Closed Group is 
presented below according to the Seven West Media Limited Class Order:

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Current tax receivable

Program rights and inventories

Asset held for sale

Other assets

Total current assets

Non-current assets

Program rights

Equity accounted investees

Other investments

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Deferred tax assets

Other assets

Total non-current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred Income

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Deferred income

Deferred tax liability

Borrowings

Total non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

EQUITY

Share capital

Reserves

Non-controlling interest

Accumulated deficit

Total equity

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 139,393 

 66,053 

 274,372 

 278,703 

 9,754 

 3,542 

 204,939 

 186,224 

 35,500 

 6,946 

 – 

 3,809 

 670,904 

 538,331 

 2,169 

 3,446 

 27,436 

 2,559 

 51,362 

 20,436 

 141,396 

 159,216 

 1,031,972 

 1,019,833 

 – 

 6,968 

 8,476 

 4,181 

 1,213,387 

 1,266,063 

 1,884,291 

 1,804,394 

 284,729 

 273,479 

 104,372 

 24,805 

 84,802 

 36,329 

 413,906 

 394,610 

 29,785 

 24,053 

 137,186 

 164,399 

 – 

 4,456 

 9,089 

 – 

 776,647 

 795,159 

 952,707 

 988,067 

 1,366,613 

 1,382,677 

 517,678 

 421,717 

 3,335,576 

 3,335,811 

 (49,359)

 (1,071)

 (51,016)

 (1,088)

 (2,767,468)

 (2,861,990)

 517,678 

 421,717 

133

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS6.3. Parent Entity Financial Information

Accounting policy
The financial information for the Parent Entity, Seven West 
Media Limited, has been prepared on the same basis as the 
consolidated financial statements, except for:

(i) 

Investments in subsidiaries 

Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for at cost less 
impairment losses in the financial statements.

(ii) 

Dividends received 

Dividends received from subsidiaries are recognised in profit 
and loss. 

(iii) Financial guarantees

Where the Parent Entity has provided financial guarantees 
in relation to loans and payables of subsidiaries for no 
compensation, the fair values of these guarantees are 
accounted for as contributions and recognised as part of the 
cost of the investment.

6.3A. Summary of financial information

The individual financial statements for the Parent Entity show the following aggregate amounts:

Financial position of parent entity at year end

Current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities

Total liabilities

Total equity of the parent entity comprising of;

Share capital

Reserves

Asset revaluation reserve

Equity compensation reserve

Accumulated deficit

Profits reserve

Result of parent entity

Profit (loss) for the year

Total comprehensive income (expense) for the year

6.3B. Guarantees entered into by the parent entity

Parent entity

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 9,119 

 3,976 

 490,415 

 421,300 

 1,169 

 1,169 

 1,261 

 1,261 

 3,393,546 

 3,393,546 

 8,352 

 3,465 

 8,352 

 3,270 

 (3,454,428)

 (3,455,601)

 538,311 

 470,472 

 489,246 

 420,039 

 99,172 

 99,172 

 (801,963)

 (801,963)

The Parent Entity has provided financial guarantees in respect of borrowings of a subsidiary amounting to $nil (2017: $nil).

There are cross guarantees given by Seven West Media Limited and its subsidiaries described in note 6.2.

6.3C. Contingent liabilities of the parent entity

The Parent Entity did not have any contingent liabilities as at 30 June 2018 or 24 June 2017.

6.3D. Contractual commitments for the acquisition of property, plant or equipment

The Parent Entity had no contractual commitments for the acquisition of property, plant or equipment as at 30 June 2018 or 24 June 2017.

134

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20186.4. Business Combinations

Accounting policy
Accounting for acquisitions and business combinations

The acquisition method of accounting is used to account 
for all business combinations, regardless of whether equity 
instruments or other assets are acquired. The consideration 
transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary comprises 
the fair values of the assets transferred, the liabilities 
incurred and the equity interests issued by the Group. The 
consideration transferred also includes the fair value of any 
asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration 
arrangement and the fair value of any pre-existing equity 
interest in the subsidiary. 

Acquisition related costs are expensed as incurred. 
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent 
liabilities assumed in a business combination are, with 
limited exceptions, measured initially at their fair values at 
the acquisition date. 

On an acquisition-by-acquisition basis, the Group 
recognises any non-controlling interest in the acquiree either 
at fair value or at the non-controlling interest’s proportionate 
share of the acquiree’s net identifiable assets. The excess 
of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-
controlling interest in the acquiree and the acquisition-date 
fair value of any previous equity interest in the acquiree over 
the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable 
assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If those amounts 
are less than the fair value of the net identifiable assets 
of the subsidiary acquired and the measurement of all 
amounts has been reviewed, the difference is recognised 
directly in profit or loss as a bargain purchase. 

Where settlement of any part of cash consideration is 
deferred, the amounts payable in the future are discounted 
to their present value as at the date of exchange. The 
discount rate used is the entity’s incremental borrowing 
rate, being the rate at which a similar borrowing could be 
obtained from an independent financier under comparable 
terms and conditions.

Acquisitions in 2018 

Acquisition of Great Southern Television Limited

On 10th December 2017, Seven West Media Limited acquired 
70% of Great Southern Television Limited and its subsidiaries. 
The company is based in New Zealand and develops, creates 
and produces programs for an international audience.

Net assets acquired were $0.2m and purchase consideration 
transferred was $3.7m. The goodwill of $3.6m comprises the 
value of expected synergies arising from the acquisition. 

Assets acquired and liabilities assumed

The fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities as at the 
date of acquisition were:

Assets

Cash

Receivables

Fixed Assets

Intangibles

Total Assets

Liabilities

Trade payables and accruals

Deferred Income

Other payables

Total Liabilities

Total identifiable net assets at fair value

2018

$’000

 1,791 

 1,210 

 76 

 30 

 3,107 

 929 

 1,932 

 3 

 2,864 

 243 

 170 

 3,568 

 3,738 

Contingent consideration is classified either as equity or a 
financial liability. Amounts classified as a financial liability are 
subsequently remeasured to fair value with changes in fair 
value recognised in profit or loss.

Ownership of net assets at fair value

Goodwill arising on acquisition

Purchase consideration transferred

Acquisition of The Mentor Platform Pty Ltd

On 19 January 2018, Seven West Media Limited acquired 50% 
of The Mentor Platform Pty Ltd, a newly formed company. The 
company operates an online platform to allow small business 
owners to interact with other entrepreneurs for advice, and 
opens a marketplace for products relevant for small business 
owners. The total consideration was $1.5m with trademarks 
being $1.5m. 

135

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2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 10,432 

 1,201 

 7,455 

 4,694 

 966 

 397 

 12,658 

 1,681 

 10,710 

 2,349 

 9,610 

 153 

2017

$’000

 1,939 

 6 

 1,218 

 214 

6.5. Related Party Transactions

6.5A Transactions with related parties

The following transactions occurred with related parties during the financial year:

Sale of goods, advertising and other services

Equity accounted investees

Other related entities

Purchase of goods, advertising and other services

Equity accounted investees

Other related entities

Shareholder contribution

Equity accounted investees

Other related entities

6.5B Outstanding balances arising from sales/purchases of goods, advertising and other services

The following balances are outstanding at the end of the reporting period in relation to transactions with related parties:

Current receivables (sale of goods, advertising and other services)

Equity accounted investees

Other related entities

Current payables (purchase of goods, advertising and other services)

Equity accounted investees

Other related entities

2018

$’000

 658 

 – 

 518 

 180 

(i)   There is no allowance account for impaired receivables in relation to any outstanding balances, and no expense has been recognised in respect of 

impaired receivables due from related parties. 

6.5C Parent entity 

6.5E Key management personnel

Seven West Media Limited is the ultimate Australian parent entity 
within the Group. There are no financial guarantees in respect 
of borrowings of a subsidiary, no contingent liabilities and no 
contractual commitments.

6.5D Subsidiaries 

Interests in subsidiaries are set out in note 6.2.

Transactions were entered into during the financial year with the 
Directors of Seven West Media Limited and its controlled entities 
or with Director-related entities, which: 

i.  occurred within a normal customer or supplier relationship 
on terms and conditions no more favourable than those 
which it is reasonable to expect would have been adopted 
if dealing with the Director or Director-related entity at arm’s 
length in the same circumstances; 

ii.  do not have the potential to adversely affect decisions about 

the allocation of scarce resources or discharge  
the responsibility of the Directors; or

iii.  are minor or domestic in nature.

136

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20186.5. Related Party Transactions (continued)

The following transactions occurred with Key Management Personnel (KMP) related parties:

Revenues

Expenses

2018

$’000

 – 

 103 

2017

$’000

 15 

 1,410 

There were no receivable or payable balances at 30 June 2018 relating to transactions with KMP related parties that have not already 
been disclosed in the prior tables.

Terms and conditions

Transactions were made on normal commercial terms and conditions.

Key management personnel compensation 

In addition to their salaries, the Group also provides non-cash benefits to Directors and executive officers, and contributes to a post-
employment superannuation fund on their behalf (refer to the remuneration report on pages 83 to 84). 

Executive officers also participate in the Group’s Equity Incentive Plan for 2016 and 2018 (refer note 5.4).

Key management personnel compensation

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Superannuation

Termination benefits

Share-based payments

Other long term benefits

2018

$’000

2017

$’000

 8,090 

 9,366 

 239 

 – 

 428 

 110 

 267 

 210 

 (103)

 145 

 8,867 

 9,885 

Detailed remuneration disclosures in respect of Directors and each member of key management personnel are provided in the 
remuneration report on pages 62 to 88.

Other transactions with key management personnel

A number of Directors of Seven West Media Limited also hold directorships with other corporations which provide and receive goods 
or services to and from the Group in the ordinary course of business on normal terms and conditions. None of these Directors derive 
any direct personal benefit from the transactions between the Group and these corporations. 

Apart from the details disclosed in this note, no Director or KMP has entered into a material contract with the Group since the end of 
the previous financial year and there were no material contracts involving Directors’ or KMP interests existing at year end. 

137

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Other

7.1. Remuneration of Auditors 

During the year the following fees were paid or payable for services provided by the auditor of the parent entity and its related 
practices.

Auditors of the Company – KPMG

(i) Audit and other assurance services

Audit or review of the financial statements

Other audit and assurance services

Total remuneration for audit and other assurance services

(ii) Other services

Other advisory services

Total remuneration of KPMG Australia

7.2. Contingent Liabilities

Contingent liabilities 

2018

$

2017

$

 511,083 

 575,875 

 59,384 

 90,529 

 570,467 

 666,404 

 219,756 

 13,764 

 790,223 

 680,168 

The Group’s tax liabilities have been calculated based on currently enacted legislation. Any changes to the tax law or interpretations 
(including proposed changes already announced) may require changes to the calculation of the tax balances shown in the financial 
statements.

Participation in media involves particular risks associated with defamation litigation and litigation to protect media rights. The nature of 
the Group’s activities is such that, from time to time, claims are received or made by the Group. The directors are of the opinion that 
there are no material claims that require disclosure of such a contingent liability. 

7.3. Events Occurring after the Reporting Date

In the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report there has not arisen any item, transaction or event of a 
material and unusual nature likely, in the opinion of the Directors of the Company, to affect significantly the operations of the Group, 
the results of these operations, or the state of affairs of the Group, currently or in future financial years.

7.4. Assets Held for Sale

Accounting policy

Accounting for assets held for sale

Non-current assets and disposal groups (assets and liabilities relating to an activity that is to be sold) are classified as ‘held for 
sale’ if their carrying amount is to be recovered principally through a sales transaction rather than through continuing use. The 
reclassification takes place when the assets are available for immediate sale and the sale is highly probable. These conditions 
are usually met as from the date on which a letter of intent or agreement to sell is ready for signing. Non-current assets held for 
sale and disposal groups are measured at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell. Non-current assets held 
for sale are not depreciated or amortised.

138

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 20187.4. Assets Held for Sale (continued)

Asset held for sale 

Sale of Yahoo!7 Pty Ltd 

Yahoo7 is a web portal, providing email, online news and lifestyle 
content as well as weather, travel and retail comparison services. 
On 28 March 2018, the Company announced its intention to sell 
its 50% shareholding in Yahoo!7 Pty Ltd to Oath Inc, a Verizon 
Inc company. Over the last 24 months, Seven West Media has 
been taking back control of its content from Yahoo7. After selling 
its shares, Seven West Media will complete this process by 
reassuming all of its remaining digital content including 7 News, 
7Sport and its short form video. 

At 30 June 2018 the sale process was ongoing. In accordance 
with the terms of the shareholder agreement both shareholders 
have obtained an independent valuation of Yahoo7 prior to 30 
June 2018, but no agreement has been reached on selling price. 
The final selling price of the Company’s shareholding will now be 
determined based on a third independent valuation and this is 
expected to be finalised by October 2018.

7.5. Summary of Other Significant Accounting Policies

Other Significant Accounting Policies

Foreign currency translation 

(i) Functional and presentation currency 

Items included in the financial statements of each of the 
Group’s entities are measured using the currency of the 
primary economic environment in which the entity operates 
(‘the functional currency’). The consolidated financial 
statements are presented in Australian dollars (AUD),  
which is the Group’s functional and presentation currency.

(ii) Transactions and balances

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional 
currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of 
the transactions.

Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the 
settlement of such transactions and from the translation at 
year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in profit or 
loss, except when they are deferred in equity as qualifying 
cash flow hedges.

Finance income and costs

Interest income is recognised on a time proportion basis 
that takes into account the effective yield on the asset. It 
comprises income on funds invested and fair value gains on 
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss.

Finance costs comprise interest expense on borrowings, the 
ineffective portion of cash flow hedges and fair value losses on 
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss. 

Other investments and other financial assets

Unlisted equity securities are available for sale non-derivative 
assets in which the Group does not have significant influence 
or control. They are included in non-current assets unless 
management intends to dispose of the investment within  
12 months of the end of the reporting period.

Financial assets are subsequently carried at fair value or cost 
if fair value cannot be reliably measured. Unrealised gains and 
losses arising from changes in their fair value are recognised  
in other comprehensive income or profit and loss.

An impairment loss of $11.9 million, including estimated selling 
costs, to write down the Company’s shareholding to the lower 
of its carrying amounts and its fair value less costs to sell 
has been included in Significant Items (Note 1.4).  The non-
recurring fair value measurement of Yahoo7 of $35.5m has 
been categorised as a Level 3 fair value based on the inputs 
to the valuation techniques used. The Company, together with 
their independent valuation expert, has estimated the selling 
price based on a 5 year cash flow model using budgets and 
forecasts determined based on their interpretation of the terms 
of the shareholders agreement, a discount rate of 10% and a 
terminal growth rate of 2%.

A loss on sale could arise in the future if the third independent 
valuation of Yahoo7 is less than the fair value measurement of 
$35.5m as it will reduce the final selling price of the Company’s 
shareholding in Yahoo7.

When securities classified as available-for-sale are sold, 
the accumulated fair value adjustments recognised in other 
comprehensive income are included in profit or loss as gains 
and losses from investment securities.

The fair value of quoted investments are based on current 
bid prices. For financial assets in a market that is not active 
and for unlisted securities, the Group establishes fair value by 
using valuation techniques. These include the use of recent 
arm’s length transactions, reference to other instruments that 
are substantially the same, discounted cash flow analysis, and 
option pricing models making maximum use of market inputs 
and relying as little as possible on entity-specific inputs.

The Group assesses at the end of each reporting period 
whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset  
or group of financial assets is impaired.

If there is evidence of impairment for any of the Group’s 
financial assets carried at amortised cost, the loss is 
measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying 
amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, 
excluding future credit losses that have not been incurred. 
The cash flows are discounted at the financial asset’s original 
effective interest rate. The loss is recognised in profit or loss.

Financial guarantee contracts 

Financial guarantee contracts are recognised as a financial 
liability at the time the guarantee is issued. The liability is 
initially measured at fair value and subsequently at the higher 
of the amount determined in accordance with AASB 137 
Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets and 
the amount initially recognised less cumulative amortisation, 
where appropriate.

The fair value of financial guarantees is determined as the 
present value of the difference in net cash flows between  
the contractual payments under the debt instrument and  
the payments that would be required without the guarantee,  
or the estimated amount that would be payable to a third  
party for assuming the obligations.

139

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS7.5. Summary of Other Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

Other Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

New accounting standards and interpretations

AASB 9 Financial Instruments 

A number of new accounting standards have been issued  
or amended but were not effective during the year ended  
30 June 2018. The Group has elected not to early adopt  
any of these new standards or amendments in these  
financial statements. 

AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers 

The core principle of AASB 15 is that revenue is recognised 
when a customer obtains control of promised goods or 
services. The amount of revenue recognised should reflect 
the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled 
in exchange for those goods or services. The standard has 
introduced a five-step model as the framework for applying 
that core principle as follows: 

 ƒ Identify the contract with the customer
 ƒ Identify the performance obligations in the contract, 

introducing the new concept of ‘distinct’ 

 ƒ Determining the transaction price – allocating the 

transaction price to the performance obligations in the 
contracts, on a relative stand-alone selling price basis
 ƒ Recognise revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies its 

performance obligation 

AASB 15 also introduces new guidance on, amongst other 
areas, combining contracts, discounts, variable consideration, 
contract modifications and requires that certain costs incurred 
in obtaining and fulfilling customer contracts be deferred on 
the balance sheet and amortised over the period an entity 
expects to benefit from the customer relationship. As a result, 
the new standard places tighter requirements to recognise 
revenue over time.

AASB 15 will be adopted by the Group from 1 July 2018  
and anticipates applying the standard on a fully retrospective 
basis, requiring the restatement of the comparative periods 
presented in the financial statements.

Management has completed a detailed accounting scoping 
analysis across each of the Group’s operating segments and 
across the products and services within the Group’s revenue 
streams. The analysis identified a material difference in the 
timing of revenue from 3rd party commissioned programs. 
AASB 15 requires revenue to be recognised based on delivery 
of episodes to the customer rather than current policy of 
percentage of completion. The impact of this change for the 
2018 Financial Year is a net decrease of $0.45m to opening 
retained earnings and an increase of $2.4m and $1.3m to 
revenue and cost respectively in relation to recognition of 3rd 
part commissioned programs based on delivery in FY18.

For all other revenues streams management has determined 
that that the adoption of AASB 15 will not have a material 
impact on its consolidated results and financial position 
but will result in additional disclosures regarding the 
disaggregation of revenue. 

This standard addresses the classification, measurement 
and de-recognition of financial assets and financial liabilities, 
introduces new rules for hedge accounting and a new 
impairment model for financial assets.

AASB 9 will be adopted by the Group from 1 July 2018 and 
anticipates applying the standard on a fully retrospective 
basis, requiring the restatement of the comparative periods 
presented in the financial statements.

The Group has reviewed the accounting treatment of its debt 
facilities and have identified a material change under AASB 
9. AASB 9 maintains the assessment criteria for determining 
if a debt refinancing is deemed to be substantial or non-
substantial. For debt modifications that are non-substantial, 
the difference between the net present value of the expected 
future cashflows under the new facility is compared to the 
original facility and is capitalised and amortised over the 
remainder of the facility term.

Based on the Group’s assessment of the 2016 refinancing, 
a benefit of $9.8m will be recognised as an FY18 opening 
retained earnings adjustment on transition and interest 
expense in FY18 will increase by $3m.

The standards also introduces a new impairment model that 
requires the recognition of impairment provisions based on  
the expected credit losses rather than incurred credit losses 
as measured under AASB 139. The change is not expected  
to impact the measurement of trade and other receivables 
when the method of measurement is introduced. 

AASB 16 Leases

AASB 16 Leases, is effective from 1 July 2019 for SWM. The 
new standard will require the calculation and recognition of 
a right of use asset and corresponding liability based on the 
discounted value of committed lease payments. It removes the 
concept of operating and finance leases, replacing it with a 
single accounting model under which lessees must recognise 
all leases (including property and equipment) on the balance 
sheet as a new ‘right of use asset’ and ‘lease liability’. The 
lease commitments which are currently expensed within EBIT, 
will be replaced by the straight-line amortisation of the right 
of use asset and will reduce the lease liability. As the lease 
liability will be carried at present value, an interest expense  
will arise over the period of the lease. 

The Group has started reviewing lease agreements and 
portfolios for each of the segments in order to determine the 
full impact of AASB 16. At 30 June 2018, the full impact of 
adopting the standard has not yet been quantified, however, 
it is likely to have a material impact on the presentation of the 
Group’s assets and liabilities, mainly due to property leases.

140

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNotes to the Financial StatementsFOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018  
Directors’ Declaration
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2018

1.  In the opinion of the Directors of Seven West Media Limited (the Company):

a.  the consolidated financial statements and notes that are set out on pages 90 to 140 and the Remuneration 

Report on pages 62 to 88 in the Directors’ Report are 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 2018 and of its performance for the 

financial year ended on that date; and

ii.  complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001; and

b.  there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they 

become due and payable.

2.  As at the date of this declaration, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company and the members of 

the Extended Closed Group identified in Note 6.2 will be able to meet any obligations or liabilities to which they are 
or may become subject by virtue of the Deed of Cross Guarantee, described in Note 6.2, between the Company 
and those group entities pursuant to the ASIC Corporations (Wholly-owned Companies) Instrument 2016/785. 

3.  The Directors have been given the declarations required by section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 from the 

Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer for the financial year ended 30 June 2018.

4.  The Directors draw attention to page 90 of the consolidated financial statements, which includes a statement of 

compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Directors.

KM Stokes AC
Chairman

Sydney
21 August 2018

141

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TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED

Report on the audit of the Financial Report

Opinion

Basis for opinion

We have audited the Financial Report of  
Seven West Media Limited (the Company).

In our opinion, the accompanying Financial Report  
of the Company is in accordance with the Corporations 
Act 2001, including: 

 ƒ giving a true and fair view of the Group’s financial 
position as at 30 June 2018 and of its financial 
performance for the year ended on that date; and
 ƒ complying with Australian Accounting Standards  

and the Corporations Regulations 2001.

The Financial Report comprises: 

 ƒ Consolidated Statement of Financial Position  

as at 30 June 2018;

 ƒ Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and  
Other Comprehensive Income, Consolidated 
Statement of Changes in Equity, and Consolidated 
Statement of Cash Flows for the year then ended;

 ƒ Notes including a summary of significant  

accounting policies; and

 ƒ Directors’ Declaration.

The Group consists of the Company and the entities it 
controlled at the year-end or from time to time during the 
financial year.

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian 
Auditing Standards. We believe that the audit evidence we 
have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a 
basis for our opinion.

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 
(the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the Financial 
Report in Australia. We have fulfilled our other ethical 
responsibilities in accordance with the Code. 

Key Audit Matters

The Key Audit Matters we identified are:

 ƒ Valuation of Television Licences
 ƒ Valuation of Yahoo7 Asset Held for Sale
 ƒ Valuation of Metro Newspaper Mastheads and 

Property, Plant and Equipment (PPE).

Key Audit Matters are those matters that, in our 
professional judgment, 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.

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG 
network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International 
Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under 
Professional Standards Legislation.

142

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Valuation of Television Licences

Refer to Note 3.1 Intangible Assets to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

Valuation of the Television Licences is a Key Audit 
Matter due to:

 ƒ The size of the asset, being the largest asset of the 

Group; and

 ƒ The level of judgement required by us in evaluating 
the estimates determined by the Group and their 
external valuation expert for forecast television 
advertising revenues and associated costs.

The level of growth in advertising revenue for 
commercial television networks continues to be 
threatened by changes in consumer viewing habits. 
This is driven by the increased use of alternative digital 
viewing platforms. 

These ongoing changes create uncertainty in the key 
estimates used in the Television Licence value in use 
model, specifically:

 ƒ Free To Air (FTA) television advertising market 

growth rates – short, medium and long term 
(terminal growth factor);

 ƒ The Group’s share of the Metro FTA advertising 

market; and

 ƒ The discount rate.

Our procedures included:

 ƒ Challenging the short, medium and long term 

forecast for FTA television advertising market growth 
rates and the Group’s share of the metro FTA 
advertising market by evaluating the assumptions 
against published growth rates and industry reports. 
This procedure was performed with assistance from 
our valuation specialist;

 ƒ Evaluating the key inputs to the discount rate, 

including the risk free rate, cost of debt, market 
participant gearing levels and industry beta, against 
publicly available data of a group of comparable 
entities. This procedure was performed with 
assistance from our valuation specialist; and
 ƒ Assessing quantitative and qualitative disclosures 
in relation to the valuation by comparing these 
disclosures to our understanding of the valuation, the 
business and accounting standards requirements.

143

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Valuation of Yahoo7 Asset Held for Sale

Refer to Note 7.4 Assets Held for Sale to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

Valuation of the Yahoo7 investment is a Key Audit 
Matter due to the level of judgment required by us in 
evaluating the Group’s estimated fair value less cost to 
sell of their shareholding.

In March 2018 the Group announced their intention 
to sell their 50% shareholding in Yahoo7 to the 
other joint venture partner. Under the terms of the 
shareholders agreement both shareholders have 
obtained an independent valuation of Yahoo7 prior to 
30 June 2018. The final selling price of the Group’s 
shareholding will be determined based on a third 
independent valuation and this is expected to be 
finalised by October 2018. 

The Group has assessed, together with their own 
independent valuation expert, their expectation  
of the fair value less cost to sell and as a result the 
Group has recorded an impairment charge of  
$11,868,000.

Our procedures included:

 ƒ Reading the terms of the shareholder’s agreement;
 ƒ Challenging the Group’s assumptions that underpin 

their estimated fair value less cost to sell by 
comparing these with the terms of the shareholders 
agreement, the forecast performance of the business 
and the other shareholder’s independent valuation 
assumptions. This procedure was performed with 
assistance from our valuation specialist; 

 ƒ Assessing quantitative and qualitative disclosures in 

relation to the held for sale asset by comparing these 
disclosures to our understanding of the process and 
accounting standards requirements; and

 ƒ Recalculating the impairment charge against the 

recorded amount disclosed.

144

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Valuation of Metro Newspaper Mastheads and Property, Plant and Equipment (PPE)  

Refer to Note 3.1 Intangible Assets to the Financial Report

The key audit matter

How the matter was addressed in our audit

Valuation of the Group’s Metro Newspapers 
Mastheads and PPE is a Key Audit Matter due to the 
level of judgement required by us in evaluating the 
estimates determined by the Group and their external 
valuation expert for forecast advertising and circulation 
revenues and associated costs. 

The Newspaper sector faces uncertainty as the 
demand for print media continues to be downwardly 
impacted by real time digitalisation of content. This 
creates significant uncertainty in the following key 
estimates underpinning the value in use impairment 
models: 

 ƒ Future print advertising and circulation revenue 

growth rates in the short, medium and long term;
 ƒ Future revenue growth of associated and recently 

launched digital businesses;

 ƒ Costs and the impact of changes in  

print volumes; and
 ƒ The discount rate.

Our procedures included:

 ƒ Challenging management’s short, medium and 
long term forecast’s for print and digital revenue 
by comparing those assumptions with published 
industry growth rates and industry reports. This 
procedure was performed with assistance from our 
valuation specialist; 

 ƒ Evaluating the key inputs to the discount rate, 

including the risk free rate, cost of debt, market 
participant gearing levels and industry beta, against 
publicly available data of a group of comparable 
entities. This procedure was performed with 
assistance from our valuation specialist;

 ƒ Assessing the accuracy of previous forecasting 

of revenue and costs and their correlation to print 
volumes, to inform our evaluation of forecasts 
included in the value in use impairment models;
 ƒ Evaluating the status of print related committed cost 
reduction initiatives included in the forecast cash 
flows against business plans and communications to 
employees; and

 ƒ Assessing quantitative and qualitative disclosures 
in relation to the valuation by comparing these 
disclosures to our understanding of the valuation, the 
business and accounting standards requirements.

Other Information

Other Information is financial and non-financial information 
in Seven West Media Limited’s annual reporting which 
is provided in addition to the Financial Report and the 
Auditor’s Report. The Directors are responsible for the 
Other Information. 

In connection with our audit of the Financial Report, 
our responsibility is to read the Other Information. In 
doing so, we 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.

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the 
Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express 
any form of assurance conclusion thereon, with the 
exception of the Remuneration Report and our related 
assurance opinion.

We are required to report if we conclude that there is 
a material misstatement of this Other Information, and 
based on the work we have performed on the Other 
Information that we obtained prior to the date of this 
Auditor’s Report we have nothing to report.

145

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Responsibilities of the Directors for the  
Financial Report

The Directors are responsible for:

 ƒ preparing the Financial Report that gives a true and 

fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting 
Standards and the Corporations Act 2001;

 ƒ implementing necessary internal control to enable 

the preparation of a Financial Report that gives a true 
and fair view and is free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or error; and

 ƒ assessing the Group’s ability to continue as a going 
concern. This includes disclosing, as applicable, 
matters related to going concern and using the going 
concern basis of accounting unless they either intend 
to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or have 
no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of  
the Financial Report

Our objective is:

 ƒ to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the 
Financial Report as a whole is free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and 
 ƒ 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 Australian Auditing Standards will  
always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

Misstatements can arise from fraud or error. They 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  
at: http://www.auasb.gov.au/auditors_files/ar1.pdf.  
This description forms part of our Auditor’s Report.

Report on the Remuneration Report

Opinion

In our opinion, the Remuneration Report of Seven West 
Media Limited for the year ended 30 June 2018, complies 
with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001.

Directors’ 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 responsibilities

We have audited the Remuneration Report included  
in pages 64 to 88 of the Directors’ report for the year 
ended 30 June 2018. 

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 
Remuneration Report, based on our audit conducted  
in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards.

KPMG  

Tracey Driver 
Partner

Sydney

21 August 2018

146

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845 
 
Stock Exchange Listing

Australian Stock Exchange
ASX code: SWM

Legal Advisors

Herbert Smith Freehills
ANZ Tower
161 Castlereagh Street
Sydney NSW 2000 

Clayton Utz
Level 15
1 Bligh Street
Sydney NSW 2000

Addisons
60 Carrington Street
Sydney NSW 2000

Company Information

Directors 

KM Stokes AC – Chairman  
TG Worner – Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer
JH Alexander
T Dyson
D Evans
PJT Gammell
JG Kennett AC
M Malone
RK Stokes
M Ziegelaar

Company Secretary 

WW Coatsworth

Registered Office 
Newspaper House
50 Hasler Road
Osborne Park WA 6017

Share Registry   

Boardroom Pty Limited 
Level 12
Grosvenor Place
225 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000 

Auditor

KPMG
Tower Three
International Towers Sydney
300 Barangaroo Avenue
Sydney NSW 2000

147

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investor Information

Shareholder Inquiries

Tax File Number Information

Investors seeking information regarding their shareholding 
or dividends or wishing to advise of a change of address 
should contact the Share Registry at:

Boardroom Pty Limited 
Level 12
Grosvenor Place
225 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000 

Telephone: (02) 9290 9600
Facsimile: (02) 9279 0664 or

Visit the online service at boardroomlimited.com.au

Boardroom Pty Limited has an online service  
for investors called InvestorServe. This enables  
investors to make online changes, view balances  
and transaction history, as well as obtain information 
about recent dividend payments and download  
various forms to assist in the management of their 
holding. To use this service visit the Boardroom  
Pty Limited website.

Other general inquiries may be directed to  
Mr W. Coatsworth, Company Secretary on  
(02) 8777 7777 or visit the website at  
www.sevenwestmedia.com.au.

The company is obliged to record Tax File Numbers or 
exemption details provided by shareholders. While it is 
not compulsory for shareholders to provide a Tax File 
Number or exemption details, Seven West Media Limited 
is obliged to deduct tax from unfranked dividends paid to 
investors resident in Australia who have not supplied such 
information. Forms are available upon request from the 
Share Registry or shareholders can submit their Tax File 
Number via the Registry’s website.

The Chess System 

Seven West Media Limited operates under CHESS – 
Clearing House Electronic Subregister System – an 
Australian Securities Exchange system which permits 
the electronic transfer and registration of shares. Under 
CHESS, the company issues a Statement of Holdings to 
investors, instead of share certificates, and the statement 
will quote the Holder Identification Number (HIN). The HIN 
should be quoted on any correspondence investors have 
with the Share Registry.

The company will maintain investors’ holdings in an Issuer 
Sponsored facility, which enables investors to maintain 
their holding without the need to be tied to any particular 
stockbroker.

148

SEVEN WEST MEDIA LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ABN 91 053 480 845Shareholder Information

The shareholder information set out below was applicable at 23 July 2018.

a.  Distribution of equity securities

a.  Analysis of numbers of equity security holders by size of holding:

Size of holding

1 – 1,000

1,001 – 5,000

5,001 – 10,000

10,001 – 100,000

100,001 and over

b.  There were 2,332 holders of less than a marketable parcel of ordinary shares.

b. 

Equity security holders

The names of the twenty largest holders of equity securities are listed below:

Name

Network Investment Holdings Pty Limited

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited

JP Morgan Nominees Australia Limited

National Nominees Limited

BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Limited

BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Limited

UBS Nominees Pty Limited

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited

3RD Wave Investors Limited

UBS Nominees Pty Limited

AMP Life Limited

BNP Paribas Nominees Pty Limited

Sojourn Services Pty Limited

Waratah Capital Partners Pty Limited

BNP Paribas Nominees (NZ) Limited

Sojourn Services Pty Limited

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited

Mr John Rumble and Mrs Sonja Rumble

Darrell James Pty Limited

Number of shareholders

4,435

7,608

2,651

3,032

265

17,991

Number  
of ordinary 
shares held

611,600,387

226,786,665

175,749,544

143,893,243

38,793,010

33,183,769

20,117,917

14,474,377

10,488,205

8,000,000

7,111,267

6,182,729

5,106,000

2,500,000

2,100,000

2,008,227

1,974,921

1,924,170

1,800,000

1,500,000

1,315,294,431

Percentage of 
issued shares

40.56

15.04

11.66

9.54

2.57

2.20

1.33

0.97

0.70

0.53

0.47

0.41

0.34

0.17

0.13

0.13

0.13

0.12

0.12

0.09

87.21

149

CONTENT. AUDIENCE. CONNECTION.GROUP PERFORMANCE  KEY OUTCOMESEXECUTIVE LETTERSCORPORATE SOCIAL  RESPONSIBILITYREVIEW OF OPERATIONSGOVERNANCEDIRECTORS’ REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSOUR STRATEGYFINANCIAL STATEMENTSSHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

c. 

Substantial shareholders

Substantial shareholders in the Company are set out below:

Name

Mr Kerry Matthew Stokes AC

Australian Capital Equity Pty Limited

Seven Group Holdings Limited

Schroder Investment Management Australia Limited

* Based on issued capital at date of notification.

Number of 
ordinary shares 
in substantial 
holding

619,753,734

618,711,654

618,711,654

77,495,046

Substantial 
holding*

40.94%

40.88%

40.88%

5.14%

The above percentages include the relevant interests held pursuant to the Corporations Act 2001 and accordingly may 
differ from that disclosed in note b.

d. 

Voting rights

On a show of hands every member present in person or by proxy shall have one vote and upon a poll each share shall 
have one vote.

150

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